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aemondapologistfrfr · 3 months ago

Text

Table 13 & Cherry Pie

modern!mechanic!benji x stripper!fem!reader

Summary: Working two jobs to support your mom’s medical bills is already hard enough and of course your car breaks down at the worst possible time. A flirty stranger you meet at the diner offers you help with no strings. Everything seems too good to be true and before you know it, it seems as if it all comes crashing down.

Warnings: 18+ mentions of long term illness, swearing, cigarettes, oral(f receiving), questionable clientele but nothing in detail, p in v, unprotected, a fight but nothing too intense

Authors Note: request from @chainsawsangel that i thoroughly enjoyed writing and working on 🥰

Word Count: 8k

⊹˚₊‧꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶︶︶꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶︶︶꒦꒷‧₊˚⊹

I curse at any higher power that’s out there for allowing my car to break on such a vital day. I shove some cash into the taxi drivers waiting hand and take a deep breath before heading into the hospital. I calm my nerves as I adjust my visitors pass before entering my mother floor. The “inspirational” quotes littered across the wall seem to only aggravate me today as I push through the door. I spot my mother’s doctor and walk up to him.

“How is she?” I nibble my lip looking at my mother fast asleep in the hospital bed.

“She did well with the more aggressive treatment we used today. She’s a fighter, don’t worry.” he lays a hand on my shoulder and I slink out of his touch.

“Did finance come up here looking for me?” I wince looking around the floor.

“No, we tend to keep those vultures out of this space. Your mother is our first priority. We know you’re doing everything you can.” his eyes linger a bit too long before I slip into my mother’s room.

“I’m sorry I wasn’t here on time.” I say softly holding her hand in mine. “You’d be giddy to know that your “hot doctor” called you a fighter and had nothing but praise of you.” I pull my normal chair closer to the side of the bed.

“My car broke down on the way here and I had to wait forever for a taxi and tow to show up. I’m sorry I let you down again.” I curse the tear that falls down my cheek. “I have to work both jobs tonight, as usual. I’m hoping when I get here tomorrow you’ll still be up.” I kiss her forehead and close her door behind me. I internally groan as I walk to the elevator so I can stop past finance on my way out. The receptionist waves at me as I walk past to the desk I’ve become all too familiar with.

“Lovely to see you, Y/n. What can I do for you today?” she smiles pushing back from her computer.

“I only have half of this month’s payment. If I could get an extension. Even just a couple of days. I’m sure I can figure something out.” I pick at my nails as she sighs.

“Something’s better than nothing.” she grabs the envelope from my hands. “I can only give you an extra ten days.” she looks to me with a patronizing smile.

“I’ll make it work. I don’t have a choice.” I inhale deeply trying not to let my tears fall. “Thank you.” I nod to her before leaving her office. As I walk outside I let the tears flow as I pull out my phone to waste money on another fucking taxi. I sit on the ground crying until the taxi shows up. I get to the diner with fifteen minutes to spare and push through the front doors seeing that the room is full of customers.

“Get changed and clock in.” my boss shouts from the grill.

“Yeah,” I wave him off heading to the back. I pull my black uniform out of my locker and change quickly. I secure the apron around my waist and head to the mirror to deal with my tear stained face. I give up and throw my hair into a bun and walk out into the main area. I type my numbers into the computer and then look around to see which table I should head to first.

“Thirteens been waiting for a while.” my coworker shouts at me so I grab a glass of water and head over that way.

“I’m sorry about that wait today, sir. Is there something I could get for you right away?” I smile before I feel my heart skip as he looks to me.

“A coffee for now.” he smiles up at me.

“Any cream or sugar?” I fiddle with my pen as I try not to trail my eyes all over him.

“Yeah cream, thank you.” the way his eyes crinkle has me melting on the spot.

“And are we waiting for anyone?” I point my pen to the empty booth across from him.

“Not unless you’d like to join me?” I know my blush is visible now as I turn back to him.

“Oh I- I would but,” I internally scream at me falling over my words.

“No worries, baby. Maybe another time.” I nod as he smirks after me as I go back to the kitchen. I pour his coffee and grab a jar of creamer before I walk out to him.

“Coffee and cream.” I set the cups in front of him as he thanks me. “Can I get you something to eat?” I pull out my pad and pen.

“What’s your favorite thing here?” he hums looking up to me.

“Probably our cherry pie. It’s perfectly sweet and tart. Unless you meant like actual food.” I nibble my lip scolding myself because of course this man came here for food and not just pie.

“I’ll try your cherry pie.” he chuckles and I don’t miss the way his tongue darts against his lower lip.

“Anything else I can get you?” I offer him whatever smile I can muster.

“That’s it for now.” he nods his head at me as I hustle back to the kitchen.

“Well are you going to pick up more tables or stick with Mr. Handsome over there?” my coworkers tease me.

I pick up my pad and start scurrying around the diner. Once I get into my flow I easily can juggle my tables. Once most of them are gone I glance back at table thirteen and wonder how he can possibly still be eating that pie. I see he’s only taken a couple bites and now I worry that he’s hated it.

“If you didn’t like it I can get you something else?” my hands rest on his table.

“You said it was your favorite so I figured I would save you some.” I scrunch my brows at his words. “Open up for me.” his voice is low as he brings the fork to my mouth. I shrug and wrap my lips around the fork and moan as I taste the sweet tartness.

“I’ll go get you your check.” I hum licking the cherry from the corner of my mouth.

“He’s your last table so finish up and I can get you out of here early.” my boss nods to me. I sigh knowing I need more money but I’m thankful that I can get to the club a little earlier.

“Here’s your check I can come back when you’re ready.” I nod my head at him.

“No, the rest is for you.” he hands me a fifty for his ten dollar bill.

“Are you sure?” I blink at him in disbelief.

“Yeah you’ve earned it.” he slides out of the booth and towers above me. “Maybe I’ll come back tomorrow to try some more of your pie.” he leaves me blushing at the booth as he exits the front door.

I go back to my locker and change back into my regular clothes before heading out the back. I cut down a couple alleys and side streets and sigh in relief when I start to see the familiar neon sign. I twist my key in the back door and make my way down the steps. The other girls wave at me and smile as I walk past. I make my way to my vanity and plop in my chair and sigh.

I start to pull my bun out and tease my hair up a bit. I pull out a can of hairspray and get to work on making my appearance more desirable. I go back to my locker and pick out my most flattering outfit since I need to make the rest of my mother’s payment in ten days. As I look in the mirror the club manager walks to me and runs his hands up my arms.

“When are you going to do private dances? You can make more money that way.” his voice sing song as I roll my eyes.

“I don’t like when these men touch me.” I look him over before stepping out of his reach.

“No but you like their money. What about a lap dance?” he keeps pushing the subject.

“I’ll let you know if I change my mind.” I toss over my shoulder before walking backstage to hand the DJ my song choice.

The rest of the night is filled with my boss begging me to give a man in the front row a lap dance and me respectfully declining every single time. I toss my outfit into my bag to take home and wash and I’m thankful one of the girls is willing to drop me off at home.

As I walk up to my sidewalk I sigh at the shell of my childhood home. I slam the door shut behind me before trudging up the stairs to burn my skin in a hot shower before I collapse onto my bed and allow sleep to take over

⊹˚₊‧꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶︶︶꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶︶︶꒦꒷‧₊˚⊹

Next day

I was able to see my mother for a couple hours today and drop off the money I made yesterday in finance. I wait on the sidewalk for my taxi to get here and smoke a cigarette wishing my life was different. As I see the car pull up I stand tossing the remains. We pull up to the diner and I furrow my brows as I see table number thirteen waiting outside the doors.

“There’s my cherry pie.” a smile spreads across his face as mine heats.

“You know they’re open even when I’m not here?” I finally return his smile stopping in front of him.

“But I’d prefer it if you were here.” he opens the door for me.

“I’m flattered,” my face must be red at this point. “Go take a seat table thirteen and I’ll be there when I clock in.”

My boss and coworkers look at me with raised brows as they see him go sit in the same booth from last night. I try not to catch their gaze as I make my way to my locker. I clock him in and head straight for table thirteen.

“What can I get for you today, sir?” I pull out my pad and pen.

“Back to sir and not table thirteen?” he offers me a lopsided smile. “I thought we grew on each other, cherry pie.”

“I just never got your name last night.” I hum looking over my pad at him.

“You didn’t ask.” he raises an eyebrow with a taunting smile.

“Table thirteen it is.” I roll my eyes and he laughs.

“I’ll have the same as yesterday.” he hands me his menu and I leave him trying to collect my thoughts. I’ve never been one for flirty customers but there’s just something different about him.

“I see your boyfriend is back.” my coworker giggles as I huff pouring his coffee.

“I can only dream. There’s no way that man is single.” I shake my head bringing his coffee and cream to him.

“What kind of pie would you like today?” I set his coffee in front of him.

“What’s your next favorite after the cherry?” I nibble my lip thinking.

“I think our banana cream pie is a close second.” I nod my head with my choice.

“Then that’s what I’ll have.” he nods his head with a smile as I head off to the kitchen.

I plate his slice and run it back to him before I start tending to my other tables. Table thirteen only asks for refills on his coffee and I can feel his eyes on me throughout the shift. As I’m nearing the end of my shift I make my way back to him.

“I was wondering when you would come back for your taste.” my breath catches at his words and he slices a piece of the pie. “I can feed it to you again.” I throw my cares away and dip down savoring the sweetness.

“Did you enjoy it?” I lick the cream off my lips as he looks to me with dark eyes.

“What are you doing after your shift?” his voice stirs something deep within me.

“Going to my other job.” I sigh knowing I have no time to entertain the idea of this man at my house.

“You’re a busy woman, cherry pie.” he tsks shaking his head. “Shouldn’t your man take care of you?” he tilts his head waiting on my answer.

“I don’t have time for one. Two jobs, an aspiring artist, and a dying mother doesn’t really pull them in you know?” I feel like weight on my shoulders like bricks forcing me down. “I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have said that.” I shake my head trying to figure out what I was thinking pouring my trauma on this man.

“What’s something I can help you with?” he grabs my wrist to stop me from walking away.

“Why do you want to help?” I look at him skeptically.

“Because I can tell you truly need it.” his voice soft.

“You good with cars?” a smile splits across his face at my words.

“I’m the best mechanic around.” his voice full of confidence. “What time are you done at your other job?”

“Around two I know it’s kind of late-“

“That’s fine. Do you need me to pick you up?” he pulls out money for his tab.

“No my coworker can bring me home. Are you sure? It’s really late and inconvenient and I don’t have any money to offer.” I shake my head.

“I offered to help where I can. Fixing your car is easy for me.” he slips another fifty into my hand along with his phone. “Put your number in.”

“I put it under Cherry Pie.” I hand him his phone back. “I’ll be back with your change.”

“No need.” he waves his hand. “Text me your address and when to come over.” he types something out on his phone and I feel mine vibrate.

“Thank you,” I furrow my brows and walk back to clock out.

⊹˚₊‧꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶︶︶꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶︶︶꒦꒷‧₊˚⊹

Table 13: Don’t forget to send me your address.

Cherry Pie: Home Location

Cherry Pie: I’ll be home around two. If you seriously want to fix my car.

Cherry Pie: I’d appreciate it, but it’s a lot of me to ask of you.

Table 13: I’ll be there. You didn’t ask, I offered. Have a good shift 🍒

Cherry Pie: omw now if you’re still coming

Table 13: I’m here waiting for you 😌

⊹˚₊‧꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶︶︶꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶︶︶꒦꒷‧₊˚⊹

“How long have you known this guy?” my coworker looks at me as if I’m crazy and I’m starting to think I am.

“Two days.” I wince.

“What’s his name?” she sighs shaking her head.

“I don’t know,” I nibble my lip. “We use nicknames.” I look out the window to avoid her stare.

“If I wake up and hear about you on the news I’ll find you and kill you myself.” she says parking at my driveway.

“He’s nice,” I shrug getting out of the car. “And hot so fuck it.” I smile before walking up my drive taking in table thirteens car.

“How was work?” he rises from my porch swing.

“Long and exhausting.” I say throwing my bag over my shoulder.

“What’s your other job?” he asks following me to my front door.

“Not a lot of people seem to look kindly upon it.” I slide my key in the lock and push the doors open.

“I don’t judge.” he shuts the door softly behind us.

“Do you want something to drink?” I turn the lights on in the kitchen and look him over. I take in his tired eyes and start to feel bad. “It’s so late and you’re tired.” I shake my head.

“I’m perfectly fine.” he nods reassuringly. “I’ll have a water.” he offers me a smile. I grab two waters out of the fridge and begin to lead him to the garage.

“Here he is.” I flick on the lights. “All broken and sad.” I step in and begin to move my canvases and art supplies out of the way.

“Do you have the keys?” he turns to me.

“Yeah one sec,” I run back into the house and grab my keys and hand them off to him. “Do you need anything like help?” I lean on the door frame watching him.

“Do you know much about cars?” he looks at me with a teasing smile.

“No but I could hold the flashlight or something.” I look around not even sure if I have an actual flashlight.

“No, you can just sit there and tell me about your day, baby.” he smiles popping my hood as I take a seat on the stairs.

“I went to see my mom today. She was awake. I gave most of the money I made yesterday to her hospital bills. As long as she gets better though and she is.” I nod looking at the ground as I hear him try to start my car.

“Do you want to talk about it?” he says leaning his head out of the car.

“Not particularly.” I shake my head looking up to him hoping he can’t tell my eyes are red.

“That’s okay. Let me know if you change your mind.” he tries to start the car again before he starts working under the hood. “What about the rest of the day?”

“I went to work at the diner, had some phenomenal banana cream pie, and got some dudes number and I don’t even know his name.” I chuckle thinking about how ridiculous this is.

“I like table thirteen.” he laughs from my car.

“I do too.” I hum. “Then I went to my other job where my boss just hounds me to do things I don’t want to do. I’m never forced to do anything but it’s just the constant pressure that is a lot.” I sigh resting my head against the wall.

“You never told me what your other job is.” he tilts his head to the side.

“I dance.” I watch as his eyebrows scrunch.

“What do you mean dance?” I watch him try to twist something before walking back to the drivers side.

“You know what I mean.” my voice hushed as he turns to me after the car won’t start.

“You’re telling me that my shy cherry pie is an exotic dancer?” he chuckles shaking his head.

“It plays the bills especially when they’re medical bills.” I pick at my nails.

“What does your boss keep asking you to do?” he turns to me.

“I only dance. He wants me to do lap dances and private dances. I don’t want that. Dancing is an art to me and so what if I take off some clothes and get men to give me money for it?” I hate the stigma around dancing in general there’s nothing wrong with it.

“Don’t do anything you’re not comfortable with. If your boss makes you uncomfortable he can become very comfortable with my fists.” my eyes snap to his before I stand.

“No,” I shake my head. “He wouldn’t make me do anything.” I walk up to him with pleading eyes because I can’t lose this job. I’d quit the diner before I quit the club.

“Just tell me if you change your mind.” he nods his head. “I won’t do anything unless you tell me. Go sit back down.” he nods over to the stairs. I sigh sitting back down and watching table thirteens muscles flex as he uses different tools. I have no idea what he’s doing but he looks phenomenal.

“I think you might be drooling, cherry.” he chuckles watching me stare at his hands.

“Sorry.” I lick my lips absentmindedly.

“Come sit closer if you want a better look.” he teases.

“Have you figured out what’s wrong with it?” I sigh rolling my eyes.

“I think so. I’ll have to come back tomorrow with some more parts and tools.” I scrunch my eyebrows.

“Are you sure? I don’t want to take advantage of your time and work.” I look up to him.

“I offered,” he goes to touch my cheek but looks at his dirty hand. “I will be here same time tomorrow unless you would like me to pick you up from work?”

“I feel like that’s too much to ask.” I fiddle my fingers.

“It’s not.” he starts to clean up some of his tools.

“Let me know if there’s anything you need or want.” I call after him as he starts to walk to his car.

“Shut the garage while I’m still here so I know you’re safe.” he leans on his car and waits as I press the button while we stare at each other until it reaches the ground.

⊹˚₊‧꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶︶︶꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶︶︶꒦꒷‧₊˚⊹

Table 13: I won’t be at the diner today but I can pick you up after work.

Cherry Pie: Are you sure? I can have my coworker take me home so you don’t have to do extra driving.

Table 13: Just send the address and I’ll be there.

Cherry Pie: and you’ll wait in the car and not harass my boss?

Table 13: Yes I’ll wait in the car 🙄

Cherry Pie: Club Address

Cherry Pie: Thank you, again.

⊹˚₊‧꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶︶︶꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶︶︶꒦꒷‧₊˚⊹

As my last song ends I walk off the stage and breathe out thankful to let my body relax. I start to take the pins out of my hair and sit down to take my heels off. I change my clothes and check my phone. I smile at table thirteens texts that he’s here.

“Don’t tell me you’re smiling at something that man sent you.” she snatches the phone out of my hand. “Table 13: I’m outside waiting in my car, just like you requested cherry pie.” she bursts out into giggles as I snatch my phone back.

“Let me have some fun.” this spurs her laughter on even more.

I sigh grabbing my bag and stopping at the refrigerator. I grab out the plastic bag handling it carefully before rolling my eyes at my friend and walking up the back stairs. I find his car and he gets out taking my bags from me. I snatch bag the plastic bag with a smile as he puts my other bag in his backseat.

“This is a surprise for you.” smile as he opens up the door for me.

“What is it?” he smiles as he gets in on the other side.

“You can wait until we get home.” I hum and he chuckles pulling us out of the parking lot.

“How was work?” he turns down the music and glances at me.

“I made some good money. I should be able to pay off this month’s bill at the hospital. Though of course my boss always tells me I can make more.” I sigh resting my head on the window.

“Why don’t you?” his voice soft and curious.

“I’m not that good at faking attraction and desire. I can’t turn away all the men I find unattractive, I mean that’s what I do already.” I chuckle. “There’s never been a man who’s swayed me enough to say “yeah tonight’s the night I make this man come in his pants.” you know?” I turn my head toward him.

“I know what you mean. I think about that everyday at the shop.” he laughs shaking his head as we pull into my driveway. “So what’s my surprise?” he looks to the plastic bag.

“Not until we’re in the kitchen.” I hum getting out of the car. He grabs my bag and follows me into the house. I tell him to sit in a stool at the island as I prepare a piece of pie for him. “You missed my third favorite today.” I place the pie in front of him.

“I’m terribly sorry, baby.” he looks to me with amused eyes. “What’s today’s flavor?” he tongue darts across his lower lip.

“Peach.” I hum and he pats the stool next to him. I walk over and take a seat while handing him the fork. He takes a bite and hums going in for another. He takes another piece and brings it to my lips. He slowly pulls the fork out of my mouth as I hum closing my eyes at the flavor.

“This was a lovely surprise.” he takes another bite and switches off from feeding me and himself. “Let’s go try to fix your car.” he nods once the pie is gone. I follow him closer to the car this time and sit on the ground as he’s under the hood.

“This is a better view.” my words low as I admire him.

“I was thinking the same thing.” I chuckles looking at me from the corner of his eye. “So how was the diner today?”

“It was so boring without you there. No one was there to feed me pie.” I pout as I watch him pull out a piece of my car.

“I just fed you pie in the kitchen.” he rises wiping his brow.

“Yeah, but not at work.” I bat my eyelashes at him.

“My poor baby.” he chuckles walking over to me. “I need you to try and start the car while I look under the hood.” he offers me his hand and he pulls me up and I quickly get into the drivers side.

“Now?” I ask not wanting to ruin anything.

“Yeah,” he gives me a thumbs up. My car makes a terrible noise and I stop instantly. “Well fuck.” he sighs walking back over to me.

“What’s wrong?” I look up to him.

“I need another part.” he sighs resting his head on the door frame looking down at me.

“Is this just an excuse to keep seeing me?” I reach up touching his cheek.

“Do I need an excuse?” he tilts his head down an inch.

“No,” my voice barely above a whisper as I tilt my head up.

“Tell me what you want, baby.” he purrs dipping down ever so slightly as I lean up.

“Kiss me.” I look to his lips before they fall into mine. It’s a quick kiss that leaves me frustrated and wanting more. “Kiss me again.” I huff.

“Maybe tomorrow.” he chuckles kissing my forehead. I get out of my car practically throwing a tantrum. “Shut the garage baby.” he smirks leaning against his car until he disappears as the door shuts. I stomp up the stairs and collapse into bed.

⊹˚₊‧꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶︶︶꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶︶︶꒦꒷‧₊˚⊹

I step out the back door of the club and shiver at the breeze. If he wants to tease me over a kiss I’ll tease him right back. My heels click against the ground as I make my way to his car. He’s out of the car and offering to take my bag from me. I slip into the car trying to pull the oversized shirt down and give up.

“Where are your clothes?” he rasps turning to me.

“I forgot them. I borrowed a shirt and I have stuff on underneath.” he watches me try to stretch the fabric down.

“Do you?” he raises an eyebrow.

“I’ll change when we get home.” his eyes travel to my legs again before shifting us into drive. The tension in the car is palpable and this is either going to go exactly my way or I’m just going to look desperate. We get to my house and he follows me inside like normal.

“Do you want something to drink?” I turn reaching up to grab a glass and I feel the shirt slip up.

“Baby.” he growls from the island.

“Sorry.” I turn to him with a glass. “What can I get you?” I look up at him through my lashes.

“Come here.” his voice low and I slowly come to his side.

“I forgot pie today.” I whisper. “Can I offer you anything else?”

He pulls me into a kiss and lifts me up onto the island. I gasp as the marble chills my skin as his hands grip my thighs. I whine into his mouth as he digs his fingers in. His hands start to travel up as I squirm and he pulls back.

“I’d like to have a taste of you tonight then.” his fingers slowly spreading my thighs.

“Yeah, please.” I whine nodding my head. He smirks before dipping down and trailing wet kisses across my thighs. He places a kiss over my covered slit and I shutter trailing my fingers through his hair. He pulls my panties to the side and groans as he looks up to me.

“This is okay?” he asks again and I nod pushing his head down as he chuckles.

“Yes, fuck yes,” I cry out as his tongue licks around my bud. He starts a quick rhythm that has my breaths coming out in pants. My hips grind against his face while his fingers hold onto my hips. His tongue slips down to my core and circles the entrance before bringing more wetness up to swirl around my bud. My legs tremble at his speed as my pleasure starts to coil. I come undone as he licks me through it as I moan above him.

“That’s my new favorite. I’d have that every day.” he rises up licking his lips. He pulls me off of the counter as my chest is still heaving. “Go put clothes on and meet me in the garage.” he kisses my forehead and walks to the garage.

I get up the stairs on wobbly legs as I throw my bag onto my floor. I take off my clothes and slide into shorts and a shirt and make my way back down to table thirteen. I should ask him his name but then I know I’ll get attached. I walk into the garage and sit down on the floor near him.

“Tell me about your day.” I hum watching him.

“I had a lot of clients in the shop today and none of them were simple fixes which got a little frustrating when my team couldn’t help either. It was a long day.” he signs resting his hands on the car frame before turning to me. “This makes up for it though.” he smiles.

“If you had a long day you can come back and finish it tomorrow.” I furrow my brow rising. “Or whenever you have time. I don’t want to be demanding. I know the time is so inconvenient but it’s the only time I have and-“

“You can’t be demanding if I offered and I don’t mind the time, I promise.” he rests his hands on my arms.

“Thank you.” I look to him with soft eyes. “I really do appreciate everything.”

“Tomorrow I promise I’ll have it done. Text me when you need me to come get you.” he smiles packing up his tools. “Have a goodnight.” he leans against his car and watches the door shut.

⊹˚₊‧꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶︶︶꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶︶︶꒦꒷‧₊˚⊹

As I step on stage I scan the room as normal and my breath stops when I see my moms doctor. I almost turn and run off stage but I genuinely need this money. As I make my way to the center I can feel his eyes on me as he sits back. I try to keep the sultry smile on my face that only falters when I’m facing back stage. When the song ends I wave and exit quickly.

“The man in the front who looks expensive wants to talk to you.” my boss says coming through the door.

“I’m not doing a dance for him. No.” I shake my head looking into the mirror.

“He just said he knew you. You don’t want to look bad in front of rich clientele do you?” he raises his eyebrow waiting for me to walk to the door. I groan getting to my feet. I better not regret this. As I step out the door to the main floor I put on my smile.

“Well, go over there.” he nods encouragingly and I turn to him and glare. I walk over to my mother’s doctor with my nerves pouring out of me.

“Some of my nurses told me you worked here and I didn’t believe them.” he smiles up to me from his chair.

“I have to pay my mom’s bills somehow.” I look down to him with a raised brow.

“If you give me a dance I’ll pay next month’s bill.” his eyes darken.

“I don’t think that’s appropriate and I don’t do dances.” I start to pull back.

“Two months.” he grabs my wrist. I look around the club and my boss is nodding encouragingly and I feel helpless. He pulls me down onto his lap and I gasp. “Three months then.” I try to hide the horror of my reality.

That’s a lot of money he’s offering. It would allow me to save up and get more ahead on my payments but at what cost? Walking into the hospital and knowing this man was all over me and paid thousands of dollars for me to sit on his lap. My boss starts to walk over with a drink and I shake my head hoping he leaves this situation to me.

“A drink for you.” my bosses voice is celebratory. “You’re the first to get her in your lap.”

“Is that so.” he smirks looking me over.

“She’s very particular about her clientele.” my boss chuckles handing the man a drink. “On the house for doing the impossible.” he winks at us and walks away.

“Three months pay for you to give me something to think about with my wife?” I blink trying to hold back my disgust. I relent because that money could change everything for me right now. I bring my leg to the other side of his thigh and his smile is predatory.

“Three months pay and we’re staying right here.” my voice firm as I rest my hands on his shoulders as he nods his head.

I try to block out the next ten minutes and the way his hands feel on my body. My outfit stayed exactly where it needed to but it didn’t make me feel any better about the gaggle of men staring at me. Once I’m backstage again I go to my locker and pull out my phone as I start to pull on clothes.

⊹˚₊‧꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶︶︶꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶︶︶꒦꒷‧₊˚⊹

Cherry Pie: Can you pick me up?

Table 13: Of course baby. Where and when?

Cherry Pie: The club and now

Table 13: Omw is everything okay?

Cherry Pie: Yeah I’ll see you soon

⊹˚₊‧꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶︶︶꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶︶︶꒦꒷‧₊˚⊹

I sit on the side of the building smoking a cigarette holding my knees against my chest. I blow the smoke up into the sky and curse the stars for my shitty life. I groan as I hear the door open and turn and see that it’s the doctor.

“I was wondering where you ran off to.” he smirks looking down at me.

“My ride is almost here.” I murmur taking a long drag.

“Those will kill you.” he tsks.

“Sooner rather than later I can only hope.” I sigh hoping table thirteen gets here soon.

“We can go to finance tomorrow and we’ll get it all paid.” his voice soft and it confuses me.

“You don’t want to do it anonymously?” I furrow my brows.

“No moneys money, they won’t talk.” he shrugs before slipping back into the club. I rise to my feet as I see table thirteens car pull around the corner.

“What’s wrong?” he searches my face as I get into the car.

“I just- We can talk about it at home.” I shake my head as he pulls us away. The ride is silent and different and I know he can tell something is wrong but I just feel like a baby.

“Tell me.” he holds the door open for me as I get out. He takes my bag from me and follows me into the house.

“I was baited- no, I don’t know, I guess it was my fault,” I shake my head.

“You can tell me.” he goes to cup my cheek and I shrink. It’s not that I don’t want him to touch me I just feel dirty and like I need to boil my skin off. “What did your boss make you do?” his nostrils flare and I feel his temper rise.

“My mom’s doctor was there and he kept asking my boss to talk to me so I went out to the floor and that’s my fault I guess.” I huff at the way my voice breaks. “I don’t know, I ended up on his lap and his hands were all over me and I just- I need to shower.” I pull him up the stairs with me.

“I can work on your car while you shower.” he voice low as he follows me into my room.

“You said you would beat up my boss for even asking me to do that and now that it’s done I’m scared, thirteen.” I turn to him.

“Benji.” my eyes find his quickly.

“Benji.” I look up to him seeing him in a new light.

“Y/n.” the smile that spreads across his face is contagious.

“Go take a shower, Y/n. I’ll wait right here for you.” he lays back on my bed as I lock myself into my bathroom.

The hot water and steam melt away everything that came with today. Three months of my mom’s medical bills were paid and I want to feel relief but I don’t know how I’ll face her doctor. Benji. My mind drifts to him and I smile as I scrub myself. His tongue was perfect last night and I can’t help my mind drifting to what else he can do. I wrap myself in a towel and push the door open as steam pours out.

“How was your shower?” he props himself up on my bed.

“It was good.” I hum walking over to the bed. “I thought about you.” he chuckles.

“And what did you think about?” his tongue darts across his lower lip.

“I need a distraction from today.” my words soft as I drop my towel.

“Are you sure?” he searches my eyes before even looking over my body.

“Please Benji.” I nod my head and he has me under him on my bed in seconds.

I sigh as he attaches his lips to mine. His tongue pushes into my mouth and caresses against mine. I whine into his mouth as he grinds against me and the feel of his pants has me squirming. He chuckles kissing down my neck and licking across my chest slowly making his way down.

“I need a taste of my cherry pie.” a moan falls from my lips as his tongue licks up my center.

His rough hands hold my hips down as he swirls around my wetness. My body trembles as his tongue focuses on my bud. One of my hands tangles in his hair while the other one teases and caresses across my chest. My hips jerk against his face as he dips down and pushes his tongue into me.

“Fuck Benji,” he groans against me and the vibration pulls a string of moans from me. “Right there, yes,” I roll my hips against his nose and release against his face with his name on my tongue.

“You’re so fucking hot.” he groans as he stands to start pulling off his shirt.

“So are you, why do you think I keep you around?” my voice still breathy.

“And here I was thinking you liked me, baby.” he chuckles sliding his pants down and I groan looking at his length.

“When did I say I liked you?” I smirk as he crawls over me. He lines himself up with my core and pushes in slowly. My toes curl with every inch as small gasps leave my mouth.

“How’s it feel?” he rocks his hips into me.

“Like I need you to move.” I whine as I push my hips against his. He chuckles and starts to slowly move his hips as I squirm beneath him. He snaps back into me as he captures my lips before beginning to rut into me. I moan into his mouth as my pleasure begins to coil. He kisses down my jaw to bite across my neck as his name falls from my mouth.

“You’re doing so good for me.” he coos never losing his rhythm. The coil that was building snaps at his words and he curses into my neck as I pulse around him.

“Benji,” I whine breathlessly as he continues to push into me. Broken whimpers leave my mouth as I feel pleasure starting to build again. My nails dig into his shoulders when his fingers find my sensitive bud.

“You gunna come for me again?” he purrs as my eyes start to roll back. I nod my head as I pant beneath him. His thrusts become erratic and a string of curses leave his mouth as my walls contract around him. He pushes into roughly before I feel his warmth spread throughout. He rests his forehead on mine as we try to catch our breath. I sigh as he pulls out and collapses next to me pulling me closer.

“Just stay.” I mumble as I feel my eyes droop.

⊹˚₊‧꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶︶︶꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶︶︶꒦꒷‧₊˚⊹

“Fuck what time is it?” I jump up from the bed untangling from Benji who groans wiping his eyes. I check my phone seeing that I have about twenty minutes until I need to go visit my mother and get her bills paid. Which I don’t even want to think about at this particular moment. “Fucking taxis,” I mutter pulling up the phone number.

“I’ll give you a ride to the hospital.” I turn to see Benji sliding on his pants. “Get dressed and we’ll head out. Don’t worry, I’ll wait in the car.” he chuckles kissing my forehead before slipping into the bathroom.

I pull clothes on and we’re out the front door in five minutes. I’m walking through the main hospital doors shortly after. My mom is awake and happy and I do everything I can to avoid the doctor’s gaze. He stands a little too close to me but I try not to make a big deal.

“Well, I’m going to head out..” I hug my mom and kiss her cheek. The doctor follows me out of her room and a shiver goes through my body.

“Let’s go to finance, I have a break.” he says lowly before walking to the nurses station. I wait for him at the elevator and as we share the small space I beg for the elevator to move any faster. I watch as the secretary types into her computer and hands me a receipt paying for the next three months. I nod at the doctor and flee the hospital. I make it to Benjis and he offers me a smile.

“How was she today?” he turns to me.

“She was okay.” I nod my head fidgeting my fingers.

“Do you want me to drive you to the diner?” he grabs my hands to settle my nerves.

“I don’t- I’m calling in.” I shake my head not in the mood for the diner today.

“Home?” he asks. “I can finish your car.” he smiles.

“Yeah that’s good.” I nod my head and we make our way back to my house.

I trudge into the front door with him close behind me. I grab us a drink before we make our way back to the garage. I sit on the ground lost in thought about the past 24 hours. I can’t even appreciate this man in front of me and my brows furrow.

“What’s wrong?” he looks at me from under my hood.

“I should start getting ready for the club soon.” I sigh looking up to him.

“Go get ready and I’ll finish up down here.” he nods to the stairs and I slip into the house. I take another boiling shower and start to detangle my hair. I grab a crowd favorite outfit and slip it on before putting sweats on over it. Benji knocks on my bedroom door and leans against the frame with a smile.

“It’s all fixed, baby.” he jingles my keys.

“Really?” my face lights up and I grab my keys from him and bound down the stairs. I jump into my car and it starts right away. “You’re a lifesaver.” I beam up at him.

“Of course. Anything you need.” he hums. “I guess I don’t get to drive you home anymore.” he pouts.

“You can still come over in the middle of the night.” I nibble on my lower lip.

“Text me when you want me.” he offers me a quick kiss. “I’m going to head out and check on the shop. Maybe I’ll see you later.” his smile causes my heart to skip a beat and I nod my head.

⊹˚₊‧꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶︶︶꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶︶︶꒦꒷‧₊˚⊹

I decide to leave early for the club and see if anyone wants to go home early. I feel so stupid for calling into the diner. Just because I’m a couple months ahead doesn’t mean I can slack now. I shake my head confused as I see Benjis car. I park and start walking up when the front doors burst open. I gasp as I see my boss thrown to the ground.

“I didn’t make her do anything.” my boss has his hands raised as my breath catches.

“You knew she was uncomfortable and always told you no.” Benji grabs my bosses shirt. “Do you want me to hit you again?”

“No.” my boss wails as I look on with wide eyes.

“No means yes to you I heard.” he chuckles before landing blow after blow on his face. I stumble towards them in shock.

“Benji,” my voice breaks. “Benji, please.” he stops and looks up to me as his eyes soften.

“You’re fucking crazy and you’re crazy if you think you’ll still be working here.” my boss turns to me. “You both better be gone before I call the cops.” he rises and staggers back into the club. I look to Benji with tears streaming down my face.

“Why?” my voice breaks. “Why did you do this? You know I need this job.” I move back as he steps towards me. “My mother’s life is on the line.”

“Baby,-“

“No.” I shake my head. “No, I don’t want to see you again. I told you not to do this. You just fucked me over Benji.” I walk backwards to my car keeping my eyes on him.

“Y/n, please,” he looks at me with pleading eyes.

“I can’t do this.” I shake my head and grab my handle. I get into the car and peel out of the lot with no destination in mind.

⊹˚₊‧꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶︶︶꒷꒦︶︶︶︶︶︶︶꒦꒷‧₊˚⊹

masterlist 🔌

part two will be in the works soon xx

taglist ✍️

@clarityisnofun @gabriella-aesthetic @callsignwidow @llynx7 @violetiss3lfish @ka1afbr @akiko-oo @papichulo120627 @lizzylovebooks280501 @thatgirl101blog @ashovertheriver @zanygot7straykidsbonk @hueanhdang @malfoycassimalfoy @april-notthemonth69 @anaviieiraaa @p45510n4f4shi0n @neocockthotology @thereaderwitch

#benji blackwood #fancsat benjicot blackwood #benjicot blackwood #benjicot x reader #benji x reader #benjicot blackwood x reader #fancast benjicot #fancast bloody ben #bloody ben x reader #bloody ben smut #x reader #x reader fic #x reader smut #x reader imagine

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storm-angel989 · 8 months ago

Text

Outside the office

Longtime reader and writer. First time poster! Let me know what you think- I have pages of this story to share if there is any interest. <3 Enjoy!

“Vox, these pancakes are the best!”

Another sleepy Sunday morning at home. Or at least, the place I called home these days. My arrival to hell six years ago had left me uneasy- displaced from the only world I had ever known. Upon my arrival, Lucifer immediately deposited me in one of the biggest power circles in Hell. With a kiss on the cheek and a warning to behave- lest I end up like my mother and father- he disappeared, off to running hell or heaven- I honestly wasn’t sure at this point.

“Not better than mine though, right Princessa?” Valentino’s voice rang with teasing disapproval.

I caught his eye and grinned. “I don’t know. Last I checked you didn’t put strawberries AND chocolate chips in your pancakes.”

“Take that!” Vox semi shouted. “Even your wife agrees I’m the better cook!”

Lighthearted bickering broke out between the two of them. I caught the eye of Velvette, the only other girl in our group and she rolled her eyes, as amused as I was.

I wouldn't have guessed when I first arrived in hell that these three demons would eventually be the family I had left behind. Upon my arrival in hell, Lucifer warned that that these demons were three of the most powerful overlords in this ring of hell. Coming from a world where demons were slaughtered on sight- and the opposite held true for angels- meeting a demon off the battlefield for the first time took every inch of my self control to not allow the instincts I worked so hard to develop to overtake me.

When I first met Vox, I was taken aback. For a demon, he was surprisingly friendly. According to Lucifer, he controlled the television airwaves and heavily utilized video and electricity to exert control over a host of sinners. Walking into his studio for the first time felt like stepping into energy territory- at least until the demon spoke.

“First time meeting a demon?” Vox seemed amused. “Nothing to be afraid of, I assure you. At least, not for you Princess.” He extended his hand and I shook it out of politeness. His twisted smile grew wider, revealing a set of sharp teeth. “Don’t worry your highness, we will take excellent care of her.”

Lucifer looked unconcerned. “You know the consequences if you don’t.” His phone rang and he looked at the caller ID. “Sorry to rush out on you, but I have a meeting to get to. Ensure you follow through on your end of the bargain.” His eyes flashed red, a non verbal “or else”.

“Of course,” Vox replied smoothly. “We have her living quarters all set up- she’s welcome to settle in after I give her the grand tour. And don’t worry- our resident fashionista will help her…blend in.” He reached out as if to push my hair to the side but stopped himself. “She’s in excellent hands, your highness.”

Lucifer looked unconcerned. A cold fear settled in my gut, followed by anger. He was leaving me? In the hands of this…creature?

“See you later darling. Enjoy all Hell has to offer.” He leaned over and kissed my cheek before he vanished, leaving me in the sole company of the TV demon.

“Before we go any further, I need your phone.” Vox reached his hand out.

I hesitated but pulled my pink flip phone out of my pocket and handed it to him. He dropped it on the ground and crushed it beneth his foot.

“Hey! Why did you do that?” I demanded.

“That technology? Ancient and easy to hack. Here. I preloaded Lucifers number, our numbers and that’s honestly the only contacts you need. Not only that, its the latest model. The public won’t have access to it until next month.” He handed me a rectangular shaped phone.

“And this.” he handed me a matching pink watch. “Don’t take it off. It allowed me to know your vitals and your location at all times. If something was to happen to you, we could easily get to you.”

Wouldn’t that be the first thing they took off? I wondered but didn’t say it. Vox hit a few buttons and showed me how to unlock it just by looking at the screen. After a few minutes of playing with it, I started to grasp the concept.

“Lucifer wasn’t lying when he said you were smart. Come. Follow me.”

Vox turned to walk away and I trailed behind him.

“Well, might as well show you around. Couple things to be aware of. Obviously as Princess of Hell you can do as you please but know that Valentino's studio, Velvette’s runway and my office are strictly for business. Enter at the wrong time and you may end up seeing things that…you’re not quite used to.”

He pressed a button and an elevator door slid open. I stepped inside and I followed, standing quietly next to him. The sense of unease hadn’t left me since the moment I arrived in hell and the further into the building I ventured the deeper that fear became.

“First floor is the entry. Second is my office and studio. Third and fourth belong to Val’s workspace and the fifth floor belongs to Velvette. The Sixth floor is our living space- that’s where you’ll be joining us. Your quarters are up there as well. Living room and kitchen are shared spaces, though we all value the privacy of our own bedrooms.” He smiled a bit darkly. “You’re welcome to join us for movie night.”

Since when did demons watch movies?

The elevator dinged to three and I stepped out behind him. The scene infront of us was pure chaos. Demons in various shapes, forms and stages of dress hustled around the open room. Clothes and racks were scattered about, being tossed aside and rehung quicker that I thought possible. Against a white backdrop, three models stood as lightbulbs went off around them.

Unlike Vox with his TV shaped head, the demon in charge looked relatively human. Her purple, red and black hair was pulled up high in two ponytails- teased and curled to perfection. Her clothes boated the same color scheme as her hair, and she wore impossibly high black heels. It took me a moment to realize her color scheme was the same as Vox’s.

I watched her bark orders in a way that would have made my father proud. As she spoke, her perfectly manicured fingers flew across the keyboard of her phone. I felt myself flush, suddenly overly aware of my own broken fingernails and very clear out of fashion clothing.

Vox seemed undisturbed by the hustle, walking through it with ease.“Velvettle darling, meet the Princess.”

She looked up for a moment and her expression twisted in what looked like annoyance.

“You got a name, Princess?”

They both looked at me expectantly. I felt my face flush with embarrassment. Had Lucifer really dropped me off to total strangers without so much as sharing my name?

“My name is reader.” I answered with a steadiness I didn’t quite feel in my gut. “Morningstar.”

“Well, reader, if this is how heaven is dressing these days you need more help than I thought.” She snorted in contempt. “Don’t worry love, we’ll get you fixed up in no time. After all, if you’re spending time with us you need to look the part.”

Vox grinned. “Have fun you two. Vel, be a dear and bring her upstairs when you’re done.”

She turned away. “Yeah, yeah. You don’t need to tell me what to do.” She snapped her fingers. “Get to it.”

Without another word I was whisked away into another room. Any sense of modesty vanished as Velvette's team inspected every inch of my body. Unlike the angels, they had no shame in ensuring I was plucked, waxed, and trimmed to Velvette’s desire. With all the strange hands touching me I felt trapped, and did my best to disassociate. I had to if I wanted to survive down here. Wasn’t that my fathers first rule? Show no fear.

Velvette must have noticed my discomfort. After the waxing she shooed everyone away for a moment and handed me a bottle of water.

“Don’t worry love, you’ll get used to it. Quicker, actually if you’re here with us.”

I held the bottle and she rolled her eyes, reaching over and twisting the cap open. “No one here will hurt you. Outside of Lucifer’s domain, this is the safest place in all of hell for you. Promise. Now drink- I don’t want to be on the receiving end of Lucifer’s wrath if you fall ill on the first day.”

I took a sip and she turned the chair I was in towards the mirror, running her fingers through my blonde hair. “You need some deep conditioning, a style and a few highlights, but your overall color is fantastic. You have a lovely shape- for a half angel. And those eyes…” She stepped around and cupped my chin. “Lovely. No one in hell has blue eyes like those.”

“Thank you.” I replied softly.

Velvette grinned. “Well look, the princess speaks! Look, let’s finish up here and get your wardrobe set up and sent up. Val is taking us out tonight, and you need to look the part. It would be an embarrassment to our brand otherwise.” She snapped her fingers and a team of demons hurried over.

“Who is Val?” I asked as she leaned back against the counter, watching her employees work.

“Valentino. You’ll meet him soon enough. Right pain in the ass he is. Love him though.”

Right. Lucifer warned me about him. Valentino controlled the porn industry in the same way Vox controlled the broadcasts and Velvette controlled fashion and social media. I couldn’t even imagine what my father would think if he knew...I pushed the thought from my head. My father was gone. This was my reality now.

“And you three- Vox, Velvette, Valentino- you’re…royalty?” I asked to fill the silence.

She laughed. “Royalty? Not far off. We’re overlords. We own millions of souls between the three of us.”

That nervous feeling rekindled in my stomach. “You own souls? What does that mean?”

Velvette shrugged. “It means mortals in the human realm, or sinners down here made a deal with us in exchange for their souls. And we collected.”

If there wasn’t a pair of scissors next to my ear I would have jumped away. Owning souls? How did that even happen? Moreso that went against everything an angel stood for. Or at least, everything my angelic half used to stand for.

“Oh relax, your soul is safe.” Velvette snorted at my expression. “Lucifer would kill anyone who even attempted to make a move on your eternal being. Trust me dear, you have nothing to worry about. At least, not from us.”

Across the studio, someone yelled her name and she pranced off without so much as a goodbye.

What felt like an eternity later, I was led to the elevator by Velvette. My blonde hair had indeed been trimmed and highlighted, blown out and teased. My broken fingernails were hidden under tiny plastic red surfboards and my normally bare face was covered in makeup.

“Just come down to my studio each morning. I’ll get you dressed and done up. Nothing to worry about.” Velvette assured me as we stepped out of the elevator.

I wasn’t quite sure what to expect when I tried to imagine where demons lived, but the room I stepped into was the exact opposite of anything I could have dreamed up. Dark hardwood floors were covered with plush rugs in deep blues, blacks and reds. Couches on the left were placed in a U shape in front of a large TV and to the right was a full kitchen.Towering floor to ceiling windows covered the far wall and a table with six office chairs sat in front of it. Towards the left there were five hallways and small alcoves scattered throughout the room hosted signs of the floor's inhabitants. Photos of the V’s, computer setups, a notebook with scribbles and swatches of fabric, to name a few items.

“You’re the fifth hallway down,” Velvette said, leading me towards the left. “If you get lost, look up. They’re labeled.”

I looked up towards the doorway entrance of each and sure enough, the names Valentino, Vox, blank, Velvette and Princess were labeled.

“Why is mine labeled Princess?” I asked as she led me down that hallway. “You couldn’t have had that much time to design.”

Velvette laughed. “Took hardly anytime at all. The boss man sent us a list and cash- we obliged. Your comfort here is of upmost importance.” She pushed open a second door and stepped inside.

I expected dark colors, blacks and reds but to my surprise the room was decorated in a sea of purples, grays and whites. A bed took up the center of the room and off to the left was a small living room area- complete with matching couches and a television. A desk with a pink computer set up sat to the right of the bed. The three doors on the remaining walls led to the walk in closet and bathroom, Velvette explained.

“Anything else you need? Kitchen is stocked. If you need something, write it on the whiteboard on the fridge. Housekeeping will bring it up.” Velvette continued. “Same with bathroom products or anything really. We want to make sure you’re happy. Oh!” She snapped her fingers and pushed open one of the doors. “Your public clothes are in my studio- along with everyone else’s. Except mine, of course. I dress myself. But in our space comfort is important. I personally chose the loungewear in your closet. Not that you can leave the building but when you’re ready to get dressed in the morning, come down to my studio and we’ll get you taken care of.” Her eyes narrowed. “Loungewear shouldn’t be seen anywhere except up here and my studio. Understood?”

“Yes, thank you. This is lovely.” Lovely was an understatement. This place was a place compared to my fathers house.

Velvette shrugged. “Just want to make sure you feel at home Princess. Come now, I’m sure Val and Vox are ready to go.”

“Go where, again?” I asked, following her back down the hallway and to the elevator.

She hit the button and stepped in. “Dinner. I’m starved, I can’t believe you’re not. And Val always picks the best places.”

Lucifer hadn’t said anything about the food down here. I wondered what exactly demons ate and a shiver ran up my spine. Babies, probably. Or corpses. Maybe small animals? The phone in my pocket vibrated and I opened up the text just as the elevator door opened. I followed Velvette into the lobby I had entered earlier, keeping my eyes on my phone.

“Settling in alright love?” The sender name read “Uncle Lucy”.

Cute. He was as much of an Uncle to me as Vox was my boyfriend. Still, maybe he could answer my questions. What do demons eat? I typed back furiously.

Three little dots appeared at the bottom of my screen and his answer popped up.

Depends. Is Valentino choosing the place? Or Vox?

Valentino, I typed back.

Three little dots and then, Steak most likely. Velvette dressed you?

I stared at the phone and typed back. Steak? Made of what, exactly?

What is steak made of in the angelic realm? Cow?

I scowled at the phone. I thought demons ate babies. And each other.

His response was instantaneous. LOL. Oh my sweet, that is something I would have warned you about. Everything you eat and drink is safe as long as you’re with the V’s or myself.

Okay, I typed back.

Be safe love. And stick close to the V’s while you’re out. This scene is much, much more different than you’re used to.

I wanted to snap my phone shut but instead the screen went black. I sort of missed it- snapping a phone shut at the end of a call was incredibly sadifying.

“Ah, so you must be the princessa”

His low drawl pulled me from my thoughts and I looked up to see the red eyes of a demon I hadn’t met yet. Involuntarily, I took a step back.

“Pleasure to meet you sweetheart.” His smile, much like the others revealed a set of sharp teeth. He stood tall, taller than even my father with a thin frame. His eyes were hidden behind a pair of heart shaped glasses. Hearts adorned the red jacket he wore, and white fluff surrounded the edges and the trim. Under he wore what looked like a black suit. He reached out and took my hand, kissing it.

“Nice to meet you too.” I tried to hide my fear, the internal screaming to run.

He grinned wider. “Nothing to be afraid of mi amor. You’re safe as long as you stay with us. Come now. We don’t want to be late.”

I hesitated. “Are you sure this is safe?”

“Don’t wander out of our sight, and you won’t have to worry about it, yeah?” Velvette replied impatiently.

Vox leaned over and gave her a kiss on the cheek. “Right as usual dear.” He turned towards the entryway door, holding it open. Velvette passed through, then me, then Vox and finally Valentino.

A deep red limo was waiting at the curb for us. Vox got in first, then Velvette. I stepped back in hesitation but a firm hand touched the small of my back.

“After you dear. “ Valentino bent down and whispered. “Be between us, always. It’s not safe to wander these streets.”

At his touch, I practically jumped in and chose a seat far away from the others, taking a deep breath. I watched the dynamic in front of me unfold. Vox, between Velvette and Valentino, looked completely comfortable, chatting about what I assumed was their work. Across the limo, Valentino shot me a grin.

“So princessa, what brings you to hell?” He asked.

Vox and Velvette fell silent, their attention turned to me.

“My father ordered me here.” I responded, cheeks flushing.

From the pocket of his coat, Valentino pulled out a long cigarette and took and draw, exhaling clouds of red smoke.

“Ah. The infamous demon killer. The hypocrite who consorted with the former princess of hell and created you. Tell me, Princess. Why does he want you here after all this time? After all you are…how old?”

I felt my temper flare, but bit it back. His words wern’t exactly unture, but I didn’t like thinking about it. “I’m twenty five.” I said through gritted teeth.

He considered this for a moment, taking another drag. “Twenty five. That’s a long time to live away from half of yourself.”

“Val.” Vox interjected in a warning tone. One of his red eyes began to swirl. “Enough with the questions. We’re thrilled to have her here.”

“Of course we are.” He smiled. “Just making conversation, wondering why now, after all this time we’ve decided to…ah, explore ourselves.”

“I go where I am told.” I retorted.

His grin became wider. “Always?”

Thankfully at that moment the limo stopped and the door opened. This time, Valentino stepped out first. Vox gestured to me and I followed him out. The building in front of us was small, and brightly lit. I followed Valentino inside, Vox close behind me.

The inside looked like a normal restaurant. We were seated immediately in a back room, and with the exception of the fact that the waiters looked like different demons, it seemed no different than someplace I would have dined at back home.

Valentino ordered for the table and in moments I was presented with dinner. I studied it while the others dug in. Lucifer was probably right. What was on my plate looked like steak, definitely smelled like it too. Lucifer told me it was safe to eat. And truth be told- I was starving. I took a tiny bite, relieved that my dinner partners didn’t seem to pay much attention to me. It tasted fine, but I couldn’t shake the uneasy feeling that washed over me. I took a few more bites, then set my fork down. I just couldn’t shake my nerves.

“That was great Val,” Vox leaned back in his chair. “What do you say we call it a night and head back?”

“Lame.” Velvette snorted. “The world needs to see the outfits I worked so hard to design. These nightly outings are not just for Val you know.”

Valentino took a long drag of his ciggarette and exhaled a trail of red smoke, looking at me and grinning. “Besides, we need to show the angel what a good time in hell looks like.” He stood up, and the others followed en-suite. Vox stepped aside, ensuring he was behind me as I followed them back to the limo.

“Have you ever drank alcohol before, babe?” Valentino asked, stretching his arms out on the seat behind me. He didn’t make physicl contact, but he was close enough to make me uneasy.

“Of course. I can go shot for shot with the most hardened angels.” I said defensively.

“Huh. Didn’t know angels drank.” Vox interjected thoughtfully as the limo pulled up to the next location. “Well good- then this should be a fun night.”

The number 666 flashed in purple above the building. I hesitated. It looked like a club, and that wasn’t a scene I was allowed to explore. Behind me, Vox gave me a gentle nudge and with no other choice, I trailed behind Valentino as he bypassed the impossibly long line. As we crossed the dance floor, demons skittered out of his way.

“It’s my club,” he said loudly as he led us to the back, half circle table. “Anything you need babe, its all yours.”

I slid in with Vox on one side and Velvette on the other. Instantly a demon appeared with four drinks, setting them on the table in front of us.

“Just stick within eyesight of us and you’ll be fine.” Vox assured me.

“Cheers.” Valentino raised his glass to me. “To your visit to hell.”

I took a sip. It was absolutely intoxicating and before I knew it, all four glasses were empty. Another round appeared instantly. Relief from my terror washed over me and I lost count after the second drink. Flashes of the dance floor, Velvette spinning me around. Shots handed to me by Vox and the four of us slamming them down.

The room spun but the feeling of freedom and liberation wrapped around me like a star dusted blanket. As time passed, I somehow I found myself across the dance floor, far out of sight of my keepers.

“To you, pretty lady.” A shark-like demon looked me up and down, and handed me a pink and fuzzy drink.

Too drunk to remember to not, I took the drink with a smile and downed it in one gulp. The shark demon laughed and took a step forward.

“Now, how will you show your appreciation pretty thing?” he reached out and touched my shoulder.

I flinched, and tried to take a step back but stumbled, trying to look back for any of the V’s. Fuck, this wasn’t good.

“There you are, princessa.�� Valentino’s sharp voice floated behind me. “Looks like you can’t keep up with demons after all.”

The shark demon paled and I couldn’t see if he left or not. I felt Valentino’s arm slide under mine as he guided me back to his table. My body, no longer in control of itself, leaned into his red jacket, my head resting its full weight on his shoulder.

“Jesus Val, how much did you give her?”

Could have been Vox or Velvette who asked. I couldn’t tell. I felt claws cup my chin and force my head up. Valentino’s eyes met mine and he sighed, letting my head fall against him.

“Apparently, the princessa didn’t watch her drinks closely enough. Vox, take this please.”

I caught sight of Valentino standing up and Vox took his place, guiding my head to his shoulder. The room felt loud, and somewhere in the distance, I could have sworn I heard a gunshot.

“Hey hey, stay awake until Val gets back.” Vox shook my shoulder. “Ah shit. Lucifer’s going to be pissed.”

I wasn’t quite sure how I ended up with my head on Valentino’s lap, or how I was totally fine with him stroking my hair.

“Shits just got to work it's way out of her system,” I heard him explain. “Time is the only cure.”

I tried to lift my head but found it too heavy for more than a few inches. Valentino’s hand pushed it back down.

“It’s my fault.” I whispered. “I drank too much, too fast. I took a drink from an…I don’t know what, drinks aren’t spiked in heaven!”

I heard the three of them laugh.

“Sounds like you need a lesson in club safety love.” Velvette looked up from her phone.

“Maybe we don’t tell Uncle Lucy. Let’s keep this between us?” I mumbled and shifted my body ever so slightly.

Valentino rolled me back on my side, “If you say so, dear.”

I felt the limo stop and tried my best to sit up. After a few seconds of letting me struggle, Valentino lifted me up and out of the limo.

“I can walk.” I said protested blearily.

“Oh, you can?”

Valentino set me down and I immediately pitched forward. He caught me with ease and back in his arms I went. I closed my eyes .

The next thing I knew I was curled up on my side with sunlight streaming into my eyes. With a groan, I sat up. My head pounded.

“Rough first night dear?”

I opened my eyes to see Lucifer sitting on a chair next to my bed, punching away on his phone. I looked down at myself. Gone were my club clothes from last night, replaced with a pair of soft purple pajamas. I wondered briefly how I had managed to get myself changed so neatly.

“It wasn’t their fault.” I answered after a few seconds. “Ugh, my head.”

He seemed unperturbed. “I’m well aware. Free choice and all that- I invented it, remember? Can’t hold them accountable- you chose to accept a drink from a stranger and well, Valentino himself held the stranger accountable.”

“Fuck me. So…what are the consequences?” I mumbled, leaning forward and covering my head with my hands.

Lucifer paused. “Consequences? Isn’t being rendered totally unable to protect yourself your first night in hell enough? I’m not your father, dear.” He stood up. “What I can tell you is the cameras show half your bad decisions last night were due to drinking on an empty tummy. Can you explain why that is?”

I didn’t answer. He walked over and lifted my chin so our eyes met. “If you don’t trust the four of us, you won’t make it down here. You have to eat. And drink. Same as you did up there.”

I nodded and he sighed and sat down next to me. “I’m aware this is difficult- it’s new, and your father and I have torn you away to this place that is the opposite of everything you’ve ever known. But despite all of heaven's propaganda, there is good down here too. You just have to be more careful.”

“Yes, Lucifer.”

He broke out into a grin. “I think I prefer Uncle Lucy. Has a nice ring to it, doesn’t it?”

I didn’t answer, embarrassment joining the pain I felt.

He patted my leg. “The good news is, you’re only suffering from a hangover. Unfortunately for you the cure is the same in heaven and hell. Hydration, food, anti inflammatories and rest.”

He stood up and his phone rang. His voice changed from sweet to sharp and several harsh words later, he hung up.

“I need to go. Chances are you’ll be back out on the club scene tonight. Let’s hope you’ve learned your lesson- stick close to the V’s. And listen to them. I made it clear that they can tell you what to do. Your responsibility is to follow through. Understood?”

I nodded and he touched the top of my head with a knowing smile. Instantly, my headache vanished.

“Hot shower. Water. Food. It won’t stay away if you don’t give your body those things. I’ll touch base with you later, love.”

He vanished a second later. I stared at the blank space and wondered if he was the only one down here who could do that. I pushed the thought from my head and willed myself out of bed. Lucifer may have made the headache vanish, but the body aches remained. I made my way into the bathroom.

The shower alone was the size of my room at home and it took me a good fifteen minutes to find a simple water pressure setting. I let myself sink into the steam and scrubbed clean every inch of my body. Finally, I stepped out and wrapped myself in an oversized towel. Standing in front of the mirror I studied my reflection as I towel dried my hair. Without Velvette’s make up, I looked like my usual self.

The door creaked open and I scrambled for another towel.

“Hello! No thank you!”

“What? Its not like we didn’t see everything last night,” Vox’s voice answered as he stepped in, closing the door behind him. “How do you think you ended up in those pajamas?”

“It doesn’t matter,” I hissed, covering myself quickly.

He laughed “modesty is overrated. Down here, you’ll learn that soon enough. Look, I know Lucifer told you but Val made breakfast before he had to rush off to work. It’s in your best interest to eat something before that headache he cured comes rushing back. Oh, and drink this.” He set a bottle of bright orange liquid down on the counter. “Courtesy of the brilliant minds of Vee and Val. It’ll help I promise.”

He turned to walk out, the paused. “I’m the last one to leave, which means you have the living room to yourself. Do as you wish as long as you take care of yourself. Don’t try to leave the building, and while you can visit my workspace or Vel’s, I’d suggest steering clear of Val. After last night, he’s in a pretty pissy mood.”

I must have looked mortified because Vox laughed. “Not at you dear. Others that didn’t do their jobs. Still, his temper is a nasty one. I’d recommend avoiding it at all costs.”

“Noted.” I said shakily.

“Oh, Princess? Just a reminder. Floors two and five are where you want to go for Vel and I.”

And with that he walked out. I took a sip of the drink he left and quickly swallowed the rest. To his credit, he was right- I felt much better almost instantly. I wrapped my hair up and from the vast closet I pulled a pair of soft blue pajamas and matching slippers. I made my way out to the shared kitchen and found a heart shaped sticky note on the table next to another bottle of the orange liquid.

Breakfast is in the fridge. Drink this after. If you have a hard time with the TV, text Vox. He’ll get you set up.

-VVV

I opened the fridge and another heart shaped pink sticky note greeted me.

“Eat every bite. If cold, microwave ten seconds.”

I uncovered the plate, hoping it was something normal. Something I could eat. Something that wouldn’t inadvertently turn my stomach. And to my delight, I found what looked to be two homemade strawberry waffles. I put them in the microwave and sat down at the table, taking a bite.

It was the yummiest thing I had ever tasted.

I finished the entire thing in record time and, taking the bottle of orange drink, I made myself comfortable on the couch. Although the headache was gone, my entire body felt achy- like I was getting over the flu. I flipped mindlessly through the channels as I finished the drink. Sleepiness washed over me and I felt myself start to drift.

The quiet ping of the elevator arriving startled me back awake.

“I see we’re alive.” Velvette saunted across the floor and hung over the back of the couch. “Feeling alright?”

I pulled myself up right. “Better- what time is it?”

“Time for you to go downstairs and get ready- we have another big night out. This one features the press, so we need time to make you perfect.” she answered. “Throw on a robe and meet me down in ten. Oh, and there's more of that orange drink in the fridge. Can’t hurt to have another bottle. Or at least water.”

She sauntered off and I heard the elevator ping again. In truth, I did feel better- almost like nothing had happened. The aches had almost completely vanished. Back in my room I pulled on a pink fuzzy robe and made my way down the stairs.

Velvette greeted me with a wave and upon my entrance, a horde of demons descended on me. The process didn’t take nearly as long as it had the day before, and by the time Velvette walked up to me the finishing touches were being put onto my makeup.

“You look great. Much better than you did this morning. Come on now, we have to meet Val and Vox out. You slept longer than we guessed- not that its a big deal. But come on, the car is waiting.”

I followed her out the door and listened to her chatter away while she typed. I checked my phone and saw I had a few missed texts. One from Lucifer, checking in. That was easy, I shot him a quick I’m fine. The second one from Vox- again, asking me how I was, followed by a text informing me he confirmed on the camera I wasn’t dead- and he would see me later. The last text was from Valentino.

Glad to hear you liked breakfast. Hope you enjoy dinner- let’s not have a repeat of last night, shall we? -Val

“Valentino is a little scary.” I said out loud.

Velvette looked up at me and laughed. “He’s only scary if you’re on his bad side- and if you’re worthless to him. Trust me babe, you have no reason to be afraid of him. Not after last night.”

“What was so different about last night?” I asked curiously.

She barked a laugh. “Vox is the one with a soft side. Valentino? He leaves drunk bitches in the ditch- he doesn’t lay them on his lap and he certainly doesn’t kill for them.”

“He’s just afraid, because of who Lucifer is.” I replied uneasily.

She shrugged. “Could be. Wouldn’t test it though. He can be nasty.”

The porn demon- nasty? That was probably the most mild of terms I could think of. More questions bubbled in my mind. How did they come to own souls? What other lies had heaven fed me- lies I considered to be true? I sat in silence, trying to bring up the courage to ask Velvette myself. I had just about convinced myself to do it when the limo stopped.

I followed Velvette outside and she marched in the door like she owned the place. Once again, we were whisked to the back of what looked like a normal restaurant. In minutes, dinner was in front of us. I looked down at the pasta dish in front of me and spun my fork in it. It looked normal- and it smelled fantastic. Cautiously, I took a bite as I listened to Vox complain about technology and a newscaster who ticked him off. Velvette responded by suggesting the use of one of her top models. Valentino was strangely silent, watching as I carefully took another bite.

“Look at that, already taking a step in the right direction.” He winked at me. “Not up for a repeat of last night, mi amor?”

I felt my cheeks flush red and his grin grew wider. “Good to see you enjoying your food, princessa.” He turned to Vox casually. “Just put something inside them. That’s how I get the bitches to behave.”

What did that mean? I wondered. After a few minutes, my plate was empty and Valentino stood up.

“Shall we? I have another busy night.” he announced. We followed ensuite back out to the limo. I waited behind Valentino, placed carefully between him and Velvette.

Valentino paused and took a step back. “After you, princessa.”

“Thanks.” I stepped inside and took my usual place against the far wall. Unlike last night, Valentino sat next to me, keeping a much shorter but still respectful distance. I felt a shiver go up my spine and a strange feeling in my belly as I listened to him chat with Velvette and Vox.

The ride to the club felt shorter than the night before. The shock of the club scene had dissipated and I followed close behind Valentino. Tonight it felt less like walking into a war zone. Not only did everyone make way for Valentino, everyone made space for me. Back in the same booth I made sure to sip my drink when it came, less I end up as much of a mess as I did the night before.

With sober eyes I watched the scene unfold. Valentino seemed to know everyone, and those he didn’t know Vox or Vel did. Frequently two left the table, leaving one behind. Visitors came up- demon men and women. Val either invited them for a drink or dismissed them with a wave of his hand. At one point he got up and disappeared into the back of the club, reemerging several hours later with a grin on his face.

“Shall we dance mi corazon?” He asked, extending his hand.

I hesitated and he leaned forward. “I won’t let anything happen to you, princessa. Come.”

I took his hand and he led me to the dance floor. Not to my suprise, he took the lead. I surrendered myself to him and the beat of the music as he spun and swung me around. I lost track of time under the flashing lights and it wasn’t until he slipped his arm under me and led me back to the table that I realized how long we had been away from the table.

He grabbed a nearby waiter and pointed to me. “Water for this one.” he turned to me. “I’ll be back princessa- stay here. And drink water.”

I watched him vanish across the dancefloor and sipped at the water the waiter brought me. After that was finished, I ordered a redbull and vodka- hoping it would give me the energy I needed to stay awake. As the minutes passed and my soberness disappeared, the demons on the dancefloor seemed to swim and I wondered how I had managed to stay afloat as long as I had the night before. A sudden rush of tiredness washed over me and I turned to Vox, who was lounging casually next to me

“When is the last call?”

“When Valentino says it is.” he responded carelessly.

Great. I swapped from vodka back to water and watched as Velvette and Vox took turns out the floor. Several times I trailed after Vox for a song or two, but he ensured I was safely back at the table before either going back out or swapping places with Velvette. After a few rounds of this, I switched back to vodka, which allowed me to relax for the first time since my arrival.

After some time passed Valentino returned, looking as pleased as ever.

“Last call for us darlings,” he purred, offering his hand to me. Vox did the same to Velvette and together the four of us walked out of the bar.

Though not nearly as bad as I had been, Velvette had the busy night and she spent the ride pressed into Vox. Valentino got himself comfortable and looked at me.

“You alright baby doll? You’re quiet.” he moved his body closer to mine and his arm fell against my shoulder as he took another drag from his cigarette, exhaling a stream of red smoke. “Tired?”

I nodded and he pulled me to his side. “Lay your head down baby- I think we passed the awkward phase last night hm?”

My head buzzed just enough that I could forget that he was a demon and that I should be terrified of him. My head fell against his shoulder and he ran a hand through my hair.

“That’s it sweetheart. Nothing to be afraid of.” he cooed as he exhaled another trail of red smoke. “Close your eyes.”

Against my instinct, I felt my eyelids grow heavy and the weight of my head fell onto his shoulder. He shifted my body and wrapped an arm around my waist. I tried to fight sleep as my head fell to his chest, against the steady beating of his heart. He was relaxed, so why wasn’t I?

I woke up as we pulled up to the VVV tower. Velvette, having solidly fallen asleep on Vox was carried up to the elevator first. Valentino offered his hand as I stepped out of the limo. He kept a steady arm around me as we walked towards the elevator.

“You have nothing to fear, mi amor.” he purred. “We are not the monsters you think that we are.”

The last thing I remembered was being tucked into my bed and a soft hand pushing the hair out of my eyes.

#valentino x reader #the vees #vox x reader #valentino x you #valentino x wife

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sugar-grigri · 3 months ago

Note

Noticed that in Part 2 there's notable chapters named after sounds... and the Ear Devil is the important one in these recent chapters. It's like shutting out the world by erasing them and everyone else trying to say "no, you have to listen and be present with us"

I think that if we interpret everything a little more meta, the disappearance of the ears and hearing, or the perception of noise, is a pretty clear warning to the reader, it's even quite mocking.

You can see that people forget the principle of a telephone without questioning the potential usefulness of the object they had in their hands. Moving on from the meta, it's a vital piece of information about Chainsaw Man's power. It's a cascading oversight. If you forget the Second World War, then you'll forget the Nazis, and maybe even fascism in general.

But above all, I think there are huge concepts in Chainsaw Man that we don't question, or even forget. It's not our general understanding of the work that's being criticised, it's the fact that, once again, we're not paying attention to the whole of a chapter that's being presented to us. The noise, the background, the muted reactions, the breakdown, the title, these are all pieces of information, and it's they that inform us, so it's our senses as readers. The more Fujimoto seems to support something, the more you have to question him. It's not insignificant that this criticism is made through Pochita, who is also Fujimoto's mascot.

Pochita could eat ears and we'd end up not questioning them, just like all those people, we're no better. It's the same thing with Fujimoto, he does a lot of things in the background, in innuendo, but we don't perceive anything.

I think the chapter where there's an awful lot going on in the background without paying attention in part 2 is, for example, chapter 156. Did you pay attention to any of that ?

But......?

More ? Have you been trying to help Denji again ? And Denji didn't break the rules, the deal had been broken by Barem who went after his family.

No, you didn't, Denji fainted on his own, you didn't give him that injection, or at least it didn't make him fall asleep. It's probably the other way round.

How could Denji and Pochita have felt his legs being cut off? Because they could hear. And how could they hear ? That was the main question we had to ask ourselves, given the title of the chapter.

Yet people concluded that Yoshida was still a piece of shit, a dog subservient to the public hunters. So a mole does exist, given the leak of information about the PS plans. And how did Asa and Fami find out about Denji's ultra-secret position?

You can see the phone. But you don't question its purpose. What's the phone for? And what is the point of all these contradictions?

Understand the implications of everything and don't forget anything, Chainsaw Man is a constant surprise. We've missed something. Part 2 is nothing more than Fujimoto discussing his work with his fans. Denji's existential crises? Artistic crises about the essence of the work, which is Chainsaw Man. Hear the noise all the way through.

This last panel comes from chapter 133, which is really the chapter that questions the work the most, featuring Yoshida and Denji in particular. Why am I throwing this chapter away? Because chapter 173 told me to ?......

Did you see the number three?

All these chapters deal with Denji's dream.

"Be present with us". Pay attention to everything so you don't miss the train.

#chainsaw man #csm #csm part 2 #csm spoilers #cdm 172 #csm 173 #csm 156 #csm 113 #csm 133 #csm 163 #ask #my thoughts

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neo-techculture · 4 months ago

Text

Power Meets Prescription

Summary :- You work as a doctor in a hospital that caters to high-maintenance patients. And your newest patient- the head of the Italian mafia, Alexei Belmonte- is obsessed with you and is trying to take you out on a date.

Pairing :- Mafia boss!OC x Doctor!Reader

Warnings :- Mentions of getting shot and stabbed (nothing graphic).

Working in a hospital that caters to high-maintenance patients can be exhausting. These include actors, actresses, models, mayors, senators, politicians, and even members of the mafia. Interestingly, almost every patient is listed under an alias; it would be unwise not to do so.

You are on your way to see your last patient for the day, the notorious Italian mob boss, Alexei Belmonte. A few days back, he narrowly escaped a bullet, sending shockwaves through his organization. Managing his security detail and handling his top associate was quite a balancing act, akin to juggling flaming swords, but that's just another typical day on the job, isn't it? After patching him up, he was quickly escorted to a luxurious suite, because, of course, he expected nothing less than VIP treatment.

You see the expensive doors to his room, a number plate done in intricate detail on the door. Few guards are stationed in front of it, and they open the door with a nod to you once they sight you. Walking inside, you're met with Alexei on the bed, leaned against a few pillows, his phone in hand. Cameron D'Angelo- second in command, first in brooding- is seated on the sofa opposite the bed. His expression screams: “I’ve seen things, doc. Things that would make your medical license curl up and cry.” You could see the faint outline of a gun under his jacket, though it dosen't faze you much these days. Similar to Alexei, he too is on his phone. The latter's eyes lifts to yours at the sound of the door closing.

"If it isn't the pretty doctor," he grins, his voice smooth and velvety. He's wearing a plain black button-up and sweatpants, and his normally slicked-back hair is now tousled as if he's run his fingers through it several times.

You let out an internal sigh at his words, not really paying attention as you flip through the pages of the clipboard with his information. Taking the cap off the pen and getting ready to write, you sneak a quick glance at him.

"How are you doing?"

"Good, a bit of pain, but overall good," he answers, although his eyes are fixed on how good you look in your doctor's coat. You jot down some notes before checking his vitals.

"You'll be good to go within two days," you tell him.

"Perfect." He looks at his second-in-command and nods. Cameron gets up from the couch and walks over to the door, opening and closing it quietly, most likely to deal with his boss's discharge.

"So doctor," Alexei's velvet voice draws your attention back to him. "How about I take you out after I'm discharged?"

"Take me out as in murder?" You respond dryly, not really in the mood for his charm.

Alexei laughs, a genuine one; not one of his unhinged or mocking laughs. "You're funny, doll."

"If there isn't anything else Mr. Belmonte, I'll be going."

Alexei can't take his eyes off you as you walk away, a little smirk playing on his lips. Since you became his doctor, he's been totally fixated on you. He's been trying to charm you into going out with him, but let's just say it's not going as smoothly as he'd hoped. You've been pretty good at brushing him off, but he's not giving up that easily. After all, a Belmonte always gets what he wants.

-----

Alexei had been discharged several weeks ago. You have not seen him or any of his associates since then. Your own schedule was hectic, especially after one of the politicians was stabbed and the aftermath that followed.

Finally done for the day, you step out of the hospital's automatic glass doors. Your plan was to get into bed and sleep for the next twenty years, but your attention was drawn to a familiar figure leaning against a black car.

What is he doing here, you think as you walk closer to him.

"My favourite doctor!" Alexei grins, straightening up from his leaning position.

"Alexei," you acknowledge, your voice tinged with surprise and a hint of caution. "What brings you here?"

"I couldn't stay away," he says, his grin broadening.

Right, because hospitals are such romantic hotspots. Forget candlelit dinners; give me fluorescent lights and sanitized hand gel any day, you think.

"I thought you might need a ride home. Consider it a thank you for patching me up." Oh, great. A ride home from the guy who probably has a secret compartment full of weapons. But hey, your feet hurt, and your Uber rating could use a boost.

You glance at the sleek black car, its polished surface reflecting the hospital’s lights. "I appreciate the offer, but I can manage."

"Come on, doll," he insists, his tone playful yet persuasive. "It's just a ride. No strings attached."

You hesitate, weighing your options. It's been a long day, and the idea of a comfortable ride home is tempting. Plus, refusing him outright might not be the best idea. With a resigned sigh, you nod.

"Alright, but just a ride," you emphasize. "No detours."

"Scout's honor," Alexei says, placing a hand over his heart in mock sincerity. He opens the passenger door for you, and you slide into the plush leather seat. Once he’s behind the wheel, he starts the car, the engine purring smoothly.

The ride is surprisingly silent, the city lights whizzing past as Alexei drives like he's in a Fast & Furious movie. You half expect Vin Diesel to pop up in the backseat. You steal a glance at him; his usual air of danger seems subdued, replaced with an almost relaxed demeanor.

"So, doctor," he breaks the silence, "how's life been treating you?"

"Busy," you reply curtly, not willing to divulge too much (and because “chaotic” and “caffeine-fueled” don’t fit on the medical forms). "And yours?"

"Complicated," he admits with a shrug. "But that's the life I chose."

You nod, understanding the weight behind his words. Probably deals with mob drama and existential crises on a daily basis. Despite the stark differences in your lives, you both navigate high-stress environments filled with their own unique dangers.

As the car approaches your apartment building, Alexei pulls over and turns to you, his expression earnest. "I meant what I said in the hospital. I want to take you out, show you a good time. Just one date."

You sigh, contemplating his request. He’s persistent, you’ll give him that. "I'll think about it," you say finally.

"That's all I ask," he replies, a satisfied smile playing on his lips.

You step out of the car, and Alexei watches as you walk towards your building. Just as you reach the entrance, you turn back to see him still there, waiting. With a small wave, you disappear inside, leaving him with a glimmer of hope.

As you close your apartment door behind you, you can't help but wonder what you’ve gotten yourself into. One thing’s for sure: life just got a lot more interesting. And maybe, just maybe, a little dangerous.

The next morning, as you prepare for another demanding day at the hospital, your mind lingers on Alexei’s unexpected visit. You shake off the thoughts, focusing instead on the tasks ahead. Saving lives and navigating the chaos of the emergency ward leaves little room for distractions. The daily grind of hospital life—the fluorescent lights, the smell of disinfectant, and the constant battle against paperwork. It’s like Grey’s Anatomy meets Office Space. But hey, at least you're not dealing with alien invasions.

However, as the days pass, Alexei’s presence becomes a constant, albeit subtle, thread woven into your routine. An occasional bouquet of flowers arrives at the nurses' station, always unsigned but unmistakably from him. A cup of your favorite coffee appears on your desk during your busiest shifts, the barista's note simply reading "From a grateful patient." His gestures are persistent yet respectful, making it harder to ignore the enigmatic mob boss.

One evening, after a particularly grueling shift, you find yourself at a small, cozy café near the hospital. As you sip your tea, you notice a familiar figure entering the café. Alexei scans the room, his eyes lighting up as they meet yours. He makes his way over, a charming smile on his face.

"May I join you?" he asks, and you nod, gesturing to the empty seat across from you.

"To what do I owe this surprise?" you inquire, your tone light but curious. Translation: Did you follow me here, or is this just a coincidence?

"I was in the neighborhood," he replies, though you suspect he had planned this encounter. Because mob bosses casually stroll through neighborhoods, humming the Godfather theme. "Thought I'd grab a coffee and maybe some good company."

You can't help but chuckle at his relentless charm. "You don't give up, do you?"

"Not when something's worth it," he says, his gaze unwavering.

The conversation flows more easily than you anticipated. You talk about your work, your interests, and he shares glimpses of his life, carefully avoiding the darker aspects. Smart move. You don’t need to know about his rival mob’s cannoli recipe. Despite your reservations, you find yourself enjoying his company.

As the evening progresses, you realize that beneath the dangerous exterior, Alexei is a man who values loyalty, family, and those who make his world a little brighter. His world is complicated, but in this moment, it feels strangely simple.

When it's time to leave, Alexei insists on walking you home, and you let him. The night air is cool, and the streets are quiet. As you reach your apartment building, he pauses, looking at you with a sincerity that catches you off guard.

"Thank you for tonight," he says softly. "I know my life isn't easy to understand, but I hope you'll give me a chance."

Before you could respond, he leaned in, his lips brushing against yours gently. Alexei steps back, a grin on his lips, after pressing another soft kiss to your cheek.

You hesitate for a moment, your heart thudding against your chest, before nodding. "I'll think about it," you say again, this time with sincerity. However, you intend to Google 'how to date mob bosses without dying' the moment you enter your room.

He smiles, a genuine, heartfelt smile, and you feel a warmth spread through you.

As you close your apartment door behind you, you feel a mixture of anticipation and uncertainty. Your life is already filled with enough challenges, yet something about Alexei intrigues you, drawing you in despite the risks.

One thing is certain: your life is changing, and you’re not sure where this path will lead. But for the first time in a long while, you feel a spark of excitement, a sense of adventure that had been missing. And maybe, just maybe, you’re ready to see where it takes you.

Aaaanndd, here we go! Drop your thoughts and what I should write next. Don't forget to like and reblog (very much appreciated; all of you're awesome <3). Also, the EVENT: Fics inspired by songs is going on and the first fic will be dropping this week, so stay tuned for that!!

HAVE A NICE DAY!!

Credits to the lovely @saradika for the cute line divider! Make sure to check them out!!

#my fic #mafia boss!oc #doctor!reader #oc x reader #oneshot #fanfiction #drabbles #headcannons #mafia #mafia boss #doctor #love #fluff

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berrypass-de-murdler · 20 days ago

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2 - 45 Your Days are Numbered!

Not only was that already a title, it was already a title in this same season.

Anyway

I played the murd against my parents and won! they didn't seem too fond of my nonstop mauve/logico impressions, but who cares cuz I beat them!

I'm still not sure it's for me because it is significantly more... infuriating than a normal murdle, but still very happy to own it :3 I'll write the cartoon special after book 2 is done, although I'll have to solve the 'conspiracy' first (and may need help cuz I'm dumb)

um don't ask why it says 'mubve'

DON'T READ THE EPISODES WITHOUT READING THE BOOKS!!

They can’t rest for long. Logico receives a disturbing call. He answers it, expecting a death threat. But what he gets seems to be the opposite…

MARBLE: Deductive Logico? Dear? Is that you? They’re in my home- they’re- they’re in my home! LOGICO! YOU HAVE TO COME QUICKLY, LOGICO! HELP ME! THEY’RE RIGHT HERE!!!!

Then static, and the call ends. Logico drops the phone. He is paralyzed once again. Irratino quickly tracks the call, and they’re led to a giant mansion. Marble didn’t even become a mathematician that long ago. And furthermore, she became a MATHEMATICIAN. How could she afford this??

Nonetheless, Logico’s heart shatters when he sees her dead. Even if she had a taste for human flesh, she was still a sweet old lady at her core. No one deserves this. Logico looks up at the suspects - Night, Mauve, and Obsidian. People he trusted… who could do such a thing? (Wait, since when did he trust Obsidian?)

OBSIDIAN: Deductive, I’m glad you came. LOGICO: Wh… why? Did you do this? OBSIDIAN: That’s something I can’t answer. But I will say that I am just as shocked at the death of our own kind as you are.

Logico takes a deep breath. He will solve this-

NIGHT: You’re absolutely stunning. LOGICO: Pardon?

Thankfully, they’re not talking to Logico. But they are harassing Mauve.

MAUVE: ‘Kay. NIGHT: I was rejected by my previous love interest. Now, you are standing vital in his place. I want to embrace you.

Mauve swings her headset at them.

MAUVE: Fucking weirdo.

Logico then interrogates the critters.

NIGHT: Based on the numbers, a prime steak was in the study. LOGICO: Please… you don’t need to say ‘based on the numbers’... especially if you’re lying…

Irratino solemnly draws two tarot cards, subtly hinting toward Mauve, who is holding a beautiful floating sphere.

MAUVE: I don’t know how it’s floooooating.

But she didn’t do it. It was Night. They betrayed us all.

Or did they? Marble sits up with a start!

MARBLE: Oh thank goodness, you fell for it! I had no other way you’d ever listen to me!

Logico is furious! The bitch was PRETENDING?!

MARBLE: Oh please don’t worry about me, it was just an act! I really called you here for something… important.

Logico is at a loss for words. He is so pissed right now. Slightly relieved that this wasn’t a ‘true murder’ (or a murder at all) but mostly pissed. He yanks a note out of Marble's hand and looks at it. It’s a spectacular map!

IRRATINO: Ohhhhh Logico, can you feel it? Another adventure is coming! LOGICO: Quiet.

Irratino quickly shuts up. Logico’s not being his usual grumpy self - he’s stuck in a state of genuine fear.

The end!

Ok it wasn't initially Marble obviously, but the 'math professor' wasn't given a name and Logico has no human friends because they're all AI so I changed it to Marble lmao

He is friends with the suspects whether he likes it or not!

The power of Goat Lord compels you!

See you next time murdlers!

#murdle #cartoonmurdleverse

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stardustshelb · 1 year ago

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"Strawberry" Part Two

TW: Language and sexual content

Word count: 7,468

Chapter Four

“No! No, absolutely not,” Riley said with a concerned look on her face. I FaceTimed her as soon as I got settled in the Airbnb. Since I was the first one to arrive, I felt as though I should get first pick out of the four-bedroom house. This place was twice the size and so much nicer than my own home; no wonder the bill for the weekend was twice my monthly mortgage payment. I saved the master bedroom for Riley, but I decided to claim the room across the hall from the guest bathroom. While it wasn’t the biggest room in the house, it was definitely the most beautiful, in my opinion. I sat on the bed rubbing my hands across the satin sheets as I stared at my best friend’s worried face.

I pleaded, “Why not?”

She exclaimed, “Because he’s a stranger! Because you’re engaged! Because you’re alone! Need I say more?”

“He’s just coming over to cook for me. Nothing more… I haven’t even texted him yet,” I said.

“Look, you know Kenneth is literally my least favorite person on the planet, but you have to be smart about this. You’re normally so level-headed,” she said with a sigh.

“I wish I could explain the way Josh makes me feel. He made me feel better about myself in the hour and a half I sat next to him than anyone has in the past five years,” I said with a lump in my throat. It was true and I realized now more than ever why staying in his company was vital. I needed to be reminded of who I was, who I am, and who I want to be. Josh somehow had the ability to elicit that feeling with his endearing words and beautiful smile.

“Ouch,” Riley said with a disappointed look on her face.

“Riley, you know that wasn’t directed at you,” I said, realizing I should have chosen my words better.

“Listen. I love you. I am not letting your lapse in judgment impact this weekend. Please don’t text him. You have never had to endure the dating world because you’ve been with the same guy your whole life. Men will say anything you want to hear just to get inside you,” she said.

I knew she was probably right. I had zero experience dating anyone because Kenneth and I have been together since we were kids. I always thought marrying my high school sweetheart was bragworthy, but I feel the opposite now. I have had a secret longing inside me for so long, but change is scary.

“And what if I do text him? Will you still love me?” I asked honestly.

“Of course, but I can’t say I would support your decision. What’s his last name? Does he live in Nashville? What’s this guy’s deal? What power does he have over you?” she asked like she was interrogating me for a crime I had not yet committed.

“Ok, so I can’t answer the last name part but–” I began.

“Are you serious? You don’t even know his last name?” she interrupted.

“He said he would send me all of his personal information once I texted him. And I will send everything to you. I won’t give him the Airbnb address without receiving what I asked for first,” I explained.

“Text him right now while you’re on FaceTime with me,” she demanded.

“Riley, it’s only been one hour since I left the airport. I don’t want to look desperate,” I replied. I stared at her face while I could see she was thinking of what to say next. Was I really making a mistake by wanting to hangout with him some more?

“Ok, fine.But I want his full name, phone number, picture, social security number, a copy of his birth certificate, and a vehicle description within the next two hours, or I will catch the next flight to Nashville and come kick your ass,” she said with a scowl on her face.

“Within the next two hours…Yes ma’am,” I said with a salute. I ended the FaceTime so I could start to unpack my suitcase. I brought outfits for all of the activities on Riley’s weekend itinerary, something I had no say in creating, but I’ve always been willing to go with the flow. I didn’t bring any extra cute outfits because I expected to stay in tonight. And while that’s still the case, I especially didn’t expect to have company. Would Josh change his clothes before coming? Would it be weird if I didn’t? Why did I care so much?

My phone started to ring which brought me back to planet earth. Kenneth’s name was on my phone screen. He was the last person I wanted to talk to, but I figured if I didn’t answer his call, he would only continue to call me.

“Hey,” I said once I picked up my phone.

“Are you at the Airbnb, yet?” he asked.

“Yes, I’ve been here for an hour talking to Riley on FaceTime,” I said.

“Why didn’t you let me know you made it?” he questioned me.

“I honestly had so much on my mind that I intended to, but–” I started.

“Glad to know I’m not on your mind,” he said in an accusatory tone.

“Kenneth, I don’t want to argue right now. I’m at the Airbnb. I’m unpacking. I need to start decorating the house here soon before everyone gets here tomorrow,” I sighed into the phone.

“What are you doing about dinner?” he asked. Shit.

“I’ll probably DoorDash something local. I’m staying in, you know that,” I reminded him. “Can you send me a picture of Sassy?” I asked, trying to change the subject.

“Yeah, I will here in a bit,” he responded. “I think the guys and I are gonna go grab a beer after we get off work tonight,” he said.

“Didn’t you guys just go out last night?” I asked.

“Yeah, we’re still celebrating our big win for the company. Are you seriously questioning me when you’re the one in Nashville on my dime?” he asked.

“Just be safe. Don’t forget to send me a picture of Sassy, please,” I said in an attempt to end the phone call.

“Yeah, I will. Have a good night, I guess,” he said with the least amount of enthusiasm a human could have.

“Thanks, you too,” I said, returning the disinterested tone. I hung up the phone and stared at myself in the reflection of the full-length mirror near the side of the bed. How can someone who says he loves me make me feel so bad about myself? How can someone who I once loved more than anyone in the world make me feel like I am the unworthiest person on earth?

This feeling of despair solidified my decision. I opened my contacts app and scrolled until I found the name Plagiarism; as soon as I saw it, I let out a laugh. It felt good to laugh again..

Me: “Hey, it’s the girl who has no name.” I hit send without overthinking the text. What if he’s never watched Game of Thrones? What if he doesn’t get it? What if I look like a total idiot?

Plagiarism: “The smart, beautiful, arrogant one?”

Me: “I’ve heard that a couple times today.”

Plagiarism: “I was wondering if you were actually going to text me. I’m glad you did. What would you like me to cook tonight?”

Me: “Chef’s choice. Surprise me.”

Plagiarism: “Any food allergies? Likes? Dislikes?”

Me: “I’m easy to please.”

Plagiarism: “Noted. I’m going to run to the store because I’m low on groceries. I haven’t been home in a while. I’ll text you when I’m about to check out so you can send me your address.”

Me: “Remember I’m not sending you my address until you send me the safety precautions first.”

Plagiarism: “Right. As you wish…”

I stared at my phone screen waiting for the text bubble to pop up to show he’s sending me the information I’ve asked for. As I wish? What the hell does that even mean? I couldn’t stand waiting on his response a second longer, so I left my phone on the nightstand and began hanging up my clothes for the weekend. I opted to change into the comfy clothes that I brought to lounge in tonight after all. I inspected my hair and makeup in the mirror; I could definitely use a refresh. I carried my toiletries bag to the bathroom and began freshening up. Should I wear perfume? I wasn’t wearing any today on the plane. Would he think I was weird for wearing perfume in pajamas? God I hope he’s wearing that cologne again. Suddenly I heard my phone buzz. I ran to check the screen when I saw it was a text from Riley.

Riley: “Did you text him?”

Me: “Maybe…”

Riley: “Send me his number.”

I knew Riley wouldn’t try to contact him. She just wanted to have his information on hand in case anything were to happen to me. I copied the number I had saved for Plagiarism and forwarded it to her. I put my phone back down on the nightstand to continue freshening up in the bathroom when I heard my phone ringing. Who the hell is calling me?

“Yes?” I asked questionably.

“That’s not even his real phone number!” Riley exclaimed.

“What do you mean it’s not real? I have already texted him… Of course it’s real,” I explained.

“No, I just Googled that number and it’s a Google Voice number. That means he gave you a fake number connected to an app. I don’t like this one bit,” she said.

“Riley, you’re overthinking this–” I tried to respond.

“You’re not thinking at all!” she yelled. I sat in silence as I realized she may be right. All I knew about this stranger was that his name is Josh, he’s a concert photographer, he lives in Nashville, and he listens to a band named Greta Van Fleet. Oh, and he loves his mom. That’s it.

“Please be smart about this,” Riley pleaded, breaking the awkward silence.

“He just responded!” I yelled into the phone while I put her on speaker. I opened his message to find a selfie that I swear was taken by an angel. I stared at his photo for so long I wanted it burned into my memory. I could tell that he changed clothes too. Those sunglasses from earlier now hung around his sweatshirt collar. I zoomed into the background trying to find details but all I could see was that he was in the driver’s seat of a nice vehicle. His hat from earlier was gone unleashing curls styled into… Is that a mullet?

“Well what does it say?” Riley yelled to knock me out of my trance.

I read aloud his text to Riley, “My name is Joshua Michael. You already have my phone number. Here is a picture of what I currently look like. I just pulled into Whole Foods, so I’m heading inside to pick up some groceries for dinner.”

“He has two first names?” Riley questioned.

“You would focus on that,” I said with a laugh. I was too busy staring at the selfie he sent me. His soft smile hid the perfect teeth behind his full lips. His eyes were soft and inviting. I wonder if those are natural curls.

“What did you say he did for a living?” Riley asked.

“He’s a concert photographer,” I replied.

“Well, there’s a country music artist named Joshua Michael. He’s old. Let me search for his photography business–” Riley said.

“I don’t know if he has his own business. He could work for a company,” I said with an annoyed tone that she was still in her investigative mood.

“True. Send me his picture,” Riley commanded. I went back to my messages and saved the selfie he sent me. I texted it to Riley and waited for her commentary.

“Ohhhh, ok Joshua,” she said in a high-pitch tone. She got it.

“I’m telling you, his conversation alone is more enticing than his looks,” I said.

“I understand why you are willing to risk your life for a stranger now,” Riley said.

“He texted me again!” I yelped not acknowledging her dig.

“Read it to me!” Riley exclaimed.

“Ok, I am grabbing two bottles of wine. One red, one white. Unless you think I should get something else?” I read aloud.

“You don’t even drink,” Riley said.

“I drink!” I defended myself.

“Oh yeah, once in a blue moon doesn’t mean you drink. You better limit yourself to one glass. You know you’re kind of a lightweight,” Riley said.

“Oh, so now you’re ok with him coming over?” I said with a matter-of-fact tone. Riley had been so against the idea of Josh coming over for dinner until this moment. It’s the first time she sounded like she was in on the idea, so I knew I had to take advantage of it.

“He’s coming over regardless of what I say, so I might as well embrace it. Send me a picture of his vehicle when he pulls into the Airbnb,” she commanded.

“Yes, ma’am. Anything else?” I asked sarcastically.

“I want you to text me periodically through the night to check in, ok?” she instructed.

“Yes, ma’am,” I responded.

“Alright, well have fun. Be safe. I love you more than anything. Use your head. Drink no more than one glass of wine. Text me often and–” she tried to say.

“Ok, ok. I got it. I need to get off the phone to freshen up my makeup,” I interrupted. I said goodbye to Riley and hung up the phone. I went back to my text messages to reply to Josh; I wondered if he was annoyed that I hadn’t responded yet.

Me: “One bottle of white wine would be fine.”

Plagiarism: “I’m buying two just in case.”

Me: “It won’t be necessary.”

Plagiarism: “Then I’ll leave the unopened bottle there for you and your friends to drink later this weekend.”

Me: “How thoughtful.”

Plagiarism: “Always. I’m almost finished here. Can I have your address now or is my background check still processing?” I let out a laugh. Against my own better judgment, I sent him the address to the Airbnb. I couldn’t believe I was about to spend the evening with one of the most interesting, attractive men I have ever met. They don’t have guys like him in my small Oklahoma town.

Plagiarism: “My GPS says I’ll be there in 20 minutes.”

Chapter Five

With 20 minutes to spare, I took what my mother always called a “whore’s bath” in the bathtub. I continued to inspect my hair and makeup in the mirror. Why did I care so much about what I looked like? I brushed my teeth and reapplied my lipstick. I decided on a soft shade of pink to give my lips some color but not too much color. I stood back and examined my lounge set: I got this matching cropped short sleeve sweatshirt and pants on sale at Walmart, and this guy shops at Whole Foods. And he flies in Group A. And he has an assistant. I am so not his type. He is going to be bored of me within the first 10 minutes.

I put on another layer of deodorant because my nerves were starting to make me sweat. What am I doing? This was a bad idea. This was a stupid idea. I needed to text him right now and tell him I changed my mind. My anxiety was starting to get the best of me, so I started to remember my coping skills. I left the bathroom and sat on the couch in the spacious living room. Breathe. I opened my Spotify app and rather than listening to a familiar song to help calm my nerves, I hit a random song on the Greta Van Fleet playlist that Josh had downloaded to my phone. I closed my eyes and listened to music as I concentrated on my breathing.

“A beauty lives in every soul. The more you love, the more you know. They pass the torch, and it still burns. Once children then, it’s now our turn.”

This song was just what I needed to hear. Did Josh introduce me to my new favorite band? I continued to breathe and take in the beautiful lyrics when I heard a door shut. My eyes shot open and I jumped up from the couch. I glanced over the living room once more to make sure everything looked perfect. I peaked out the window to see him getting the bags of groceries out of the back of his Jeep. I quickly snapped a picture to text to Riley before he saw me. I continued to watch him from the window as he grabbed his final bag. Did he buy the whole damn store? I moved away from the window and waited by the door to let him in. I felt like I was going to pass out.

“Come on in,” I said as I opened the door. Somehow he looked even better than he did earlier. I glanced at his matching tan sweatsuit that complemented mine. His sweatshirt had a tiny triangular symbol with rhinestones, a symbol I did not recognize, sewn into it. He definitely did not get that from Walmart. I closed the door behind him as he carried what looked like seven bags of groceries to the kitchen. I followed him trying to appear calm, cool, and collected. I sat at one of the barstools behind the counter to watch him as he unpacked his purchases.

“Mrs–” he began.

“Miss,” I corrected him. He looked confused as he glanced at my engagement ring still on my hand. Why didn’t I take this off?

“Miss, I hope you like Polish food,” he said as he pulled out the two bottles of wine.

“I’m not sure I’ve ever had Polish food,” I said in a curious tone.

“I’m about to rock your world,” he said with a smile that displayed the gap that I will dream about tonight. I examined his hairstyle while he unpacked bell peppers, onions, carrots, mushrooms, various spices, and a package of beef. His hair was definitely styled in a way that Kenneth would die before wearing. It was a mullet alright, but not like any mullet you would see in Oklahoma.

“This is my grandmother’s recipe. Normally it simmers on the stove for several hours, but we don’t have that luxury. It will still be good. It’s my favorite comfort soup. It’s called gulasz,” he explained.

“Like goulash?” I asked.

“Similar, but this is the Polish version. Where are the knives?” he asked as he started to wash the vegetables.

“This is my first time using the kitchen too, so your guess is as good as mine,” I said with a nervous laugh. I got up from the barstool to start opening the plethora of drawers until I found the utensils he would need.

“So you’re Polish?” I asked as I handed him a cutting board.

“Yes,” he said with a sense of pride.

“Have you ever been to Poland?” I asked as I searched for two wine glasses in the cabinets. “One drink” I practically heard Riley’s voice in my ears.

“No, not yet. It’s definitely on my travel list when I go to Europe later this year,” he said as he stirred the beef inside the pot he found.

“I’ve never been outside of the United States. Hell, I’ve barely been outside of Oklahoma. By the way, why were you and your assistant in Oklahoma City anyways?” I asked.

“My who–Oh, yeah, he and I had a business meeting yesterday afternoon, so we flew back this morning. Our flight last night was canceled. We showed up to the airport this morning and asked for the earliest flight to Nashville, so we were limited to Southwest. But hey, no complaints now,” he said. Although his back was to me, I could hear the smile in his voice.

“A business meeting for your photography?” I asked as I watched him sprinkle paprika into the pot.

“Yes, something like that,” he said with a smirk as he glanced over his shoulder. “Do you live in Oklahoma City?” he asked.

“Oh, God no. I had to drive an hour and a half to get to the airport. My hometown is tiny. We don’t even have a stoplight,” I said.

“You still live in your hometown?” he asked. I watched him chop the vegetables with great focus. His knife work demonstrated that he was skilled. I gazed at the veins in his hands protruding with every motion. He dumped the sliced vegetables into the pot and covered it with a lid. I realized I had been watching him for too long and almost forgot what he had asked me.

“Yes, everyone left except me,” I said with a laugh to hide the pain in my voice.

Josh immediately stopped what he was doing and turned to face me. I could feel him studying my face as if he were trying to read me like a novel. He slowly walked over to me. I felt my cheeks get warm as he stood so close I could smell his cologne over the aromatic dinner on the stove.

“Are you lonely?” he asked with a look in his eyes I couldn’t quite place. Pity?

“Most of the time, yes. But it’s a feeling I’ve grown accustomed to,” I said with a shrug.

“I could sense that about you. It’s one of the reasons I didn’t want you to spend your first evening in Nashville alone,” he said looking at my mouth. Did I have lipstick on my teeth?

“Yes, I definitely appreciate the company. How long until the–what was it called again?” I asked.

“Repeat after me…” he said slowly. “Gulasz.” I watched his mouth closely as his tongue flicked between the syllables.

“Gulasz…” I repeated back to him.

“Good girl,” he said with a wink. I felt myself forming into a puddle on the floor. “It should be finished in about an hour and a half.”

I needed to distract myself from him. I moved around him to walk toward the counter where I had left the two empty wine glasses. “Sure, alcohol will help” I could hear Riley again. I realized the wine he had bought needed a corkscrew. The only wine I have ever had only had a twist top.

“This is one of my favorites despite it coming from a grocery store. If I had more time to prepare, I would have brought some bottles from my favorite winery,” he said as he began searching the kitchen drawers for a corkscrew.

“I’m honestly not a wine connoisseur. I rarely drink,” I said timidly.

“We don’t have to open a bottle if you don’t want to. I’m perfectly fine drinking water,” he said, putting the newly found corkscrew back in the drawer.

“No, no, I would like a glass,” I said with a smile.

“Are you sure? I would never ask you to do anything you didn’t feel comfortable doing,” he said. His face looked so genuine that I wanted to take a picture to remember it.

“I’m sure,” I said, holding the glasses out to him. He took them from my hands but never broke eye contact. I couldn’t stand the tension any longer, so I walked into the living room and waited for him to bring us the glasses of wine. I glanced at my phone to see two notifications from Riley and 49 from Nashville Babes. I cleared the group text notification and opened Riley’s messages.

Riley: “Ok, so he drives a nice ass Jeep. Slay.”

Riley: “I need a check-in soon or I’m booking a flight.”

Me: “All is good. Dinner is cooking. I haven’t even had a sip of wine yet.”

I put my phone away as Josh sauntered into the room carrying two glasses of white wine. I placed two coasters on the living room table for him. He took a seat on the couch next to me while handing me my glass.

“Cheers, darling,” he said, holding his glass out.

“Cheers,” I said with a nervous laugh. We clinked glasses and took a sip of the wine. I could feel Josh’s eyes on me but I refused to look at him. I scanned the room looking for something to initiate a conversation.

“Have you always lived in Nashville?” I asked him.

“No, I’m actually from Michigan. I moved here about five-ish years ago,” he said, not breaking his gaze off of me.

“I’ve never been to Michigan either. I’m sure that doesn’t surprise you,” I said timidly.

“I bet there is a lot about you that would surprise me,” he said with a wink. I took another drink of my wine to hide my smile.

“Tell me about that ring on your finger,” he said candidly. Ah, the elephant in the room.

“This is my engagement ring,” I said looking down at my hand. I used to love this ring. I hate that I don’t anymore.

“When is the big day?” he asked.

“There isn’t one,” I said. “Not yet.”

“Marriage isn’t for me,” he said with a sigh.

“Why not?” I asked.

“I just don’t see the purpose. I can love someone, or multiple people in my lifetime, and I don’t need a piece of paper from the government to signify that love. I think society has a twisted expectation with matrimony. If I find someone with whom I want to share a connection with, I will focus my time and energy on that person for as long as I can,” he said finishing his wine. He placed his empty glass on the table next to mine that was still nearly full.

“To each his own,” I said, eyeing our wine glasses.

“I don’t mean to offend you,” he said.

“You didn’t. I think you have some interesting ways of looking at the world. I’m sure that comes with traveling so much with touring,” I said. Josh looked at me like I had just said the raunchiest curse word he could think of. His shocked expression quickly faded.

“Yes, photography. Touring. Right,” he said as he stood up and made his way into the kitchen. That was weird.

I watched him check the gulasz on the stove before grabbing the opened wine bottle and bringing it back into the living room. “You need to catch up. I’m starting to look like a lush,” he said while pouring himself a second glass.

“I told you I’m not much of a drinker,” I said, grabbing my glass from his peer pressure. I took another drink as he sat back down on the couch.

“One more glass and I’ll show you that exotic dance routine,” he said, wiggling his hips. I busted out laughing.

“Hold on, I’ll need to go get some dollar bills out of my purse!” I said jumping up. Going along with the joke, I polished off my wine and placed the now empty glass back on the table. I scurried into the bedroom in which I claimed earlier to find my purse. I was looking through my wallet when I heard Josh enter the room.

“So this is your bedroom for the weekend?” he asked, looking around. He walked over to the nightstand and placed two full glasses of wine on it.

“I’m not drinking another glass of wine,” I said.

“That’s fine. I’ll drink both,” he said with a smile.

“Joshua Michael, you are a lush,” I said with a giggle. He walked over to where I was standing with the dollar bills in my hand.

“Are you going to tell me your name?” he asked.

“Do you normally go over to strange women’s houses when you don’t even know their name?” I asked.

“I don’t kiss and tell,” he said with a wink. He moved closer to me. My breathing became short and I found it hard to stay standing. “Honestly, it’s probably best if I don't know your name.”

“Really?” I asked.

“This right here,” he said, reaching out for my hand and toying with my ring. “This right here tells me I don’t need to know your name,” he said. “You will only be here for the weekend and I’m just here for the moment,” he said, still holding my hand in his. “No name… No strings attached,” he said before letting go of my hand. I watched him walk over to the night stand and grab his glass of wine. He was no longer looking at me but I couldn’t stop looking at him. He was waiting for me to make the next move.

Chapter Six

I walked back into the living room, leaving Josh and the wine glasses alone in my bedroom. I could feel the effect of the wine starting to take its toll on me. My lips were tingling with a numbness that was always the first sign of feeling buzzed. I grabbed my phone and texted Riley:

Me: “I’m still good.”

Riley: “What was for dinner?”

“You know you don’t have to go to another room to text him,” Josh said as he walked into the living room with his now empty glass in his hand.

“I’m actually texting Riley to assure her that I am still alive, thank you very much,” I said with a hint of annoyance.

“Tell her I’ll put the leftovers in the fridge for her tomorrow,” he called out as he walked into the kitchen. I looked up from my phone to watch him stirring the contents inside the pot.

“It smells amazing,” I said.

“It will taste even better. It probably needs another 45 minutes. Can you wait that long?” he asked.

“Yes, of course,” I lied. I hadn’t eaten since I left the house this morning. The aroma was making my stomach growl in anticipation. I walked back into my bedroom to grab the new glass of wine that Josh had poured me. I took a few sips to try to trick my brain into thinking I was eating something. Alcohol on an empty stomach. That’s a good idea.

“I thought you weren’t drinking anymore?” Josh asked from the doorway.

“I changed my mind,” I said, taking another sip.

“The bottle is almost empty,” he said with a laugh.

“Well, that’s not because of me,” I said, sticking my tongue out.

“It’s rude to stick your tongue out at people,” he said walking into the room. I tried to think of something witty to say back. The alcohol was definitely in my system now. I wasn’t drunk but the buzz was nice.

“I’m not sure how much longer I can wait before dinner,” I said honestly.

“How about I take your mind off of dinner for a bit?” he said, closing the space between us. I gasped when he stood so close to me I could smell the wine on his breath. He took the wine glass out of my hand and placed it on the nightstand.

“Can I kiss you?” he asked me while staring deep into my eyes like he could glimpse into my soul.

“I–I don’t know,” I said nervously.

“I’ll wait until you say yes,” he said, giving me a light kiss on the cheek. At that moment, I felt every nerve in my body combust. I was no longer solid matter; I was a liquid. Without hesitation, I grabbed Josh by the waist and pulled him into a kiss. His full lips kissed mine back and I felt his tongue make its way into my mouth. I pulled him tighter and felt his hands move up my back and into my hair. Every part of me was in this kiss. I lightly bit his bottom lip with my teeth and heard him let out a slight moan. I felt his hand grab the back of my head as he gently guided my body to the bed.

I began kissing his neck, the same neck I had admired so much on the plane. I tasted his scent and licked the mixture of cologne and sweat off of his neck. He began to remove his sweatshirt and pulled it over his head. I inhaled suddenly when I saw his perfect chest. I moved my lips down from his neck and began kissing his pecs. I continued to make my way down to his stomach until the peach fuzz below his belly button tickled my chin. I looked up at Josh and saw him smiling as he watched me work my way back up to his lips. He pulled me in for another kiss and I whimpered as he moved his hands all over my body.

“Can I kiss you all over?” he asked me as I tried to hide my grin.

“Where did you have in mind?” I asked playfully. He moved his fingers across my collarbone.

“Here,” he said. Then he moved his fingers lower to my breasts. “Here,” he said again. His fingers began to move slowly downward until they stopped between my legs. “And here,” he said with finality. I removed my sweatshirt over my head and threw it to the floor. I began to unbutton my jeans when Josh’s hands stopped me.

“Let me,” he said in a seductive whisper. I moved my hands to allow him to remove them for me. He pulled my jeans down so slowly I thought I was going to melt into the bed. I could feel my panties sticking to me. He worked his way back up to my upper body and toyed with the clasp of my bra. With only one hand, he swiftly undid it and exposed my bare breasts. He’s definitely a pro at this.

“Wow,” he said while admiring my body. I moved my hands over my face to hide my embarrassment.

“What are you doing?” he asked.

“I don’t know,” I said, still covering my face.

“Move your hands. I want to see you smile when I kiss you…all over,” he said gently. He moved his face back to my neck and I could feel his tongue swirl against my skin. His facial hair tickled my neck as his mouth moved to kiss my collarbone. Per his request, I moved my hands away from my face and placed them in his hair. I twirled my fingers through his curls as he brought his lips to my breasts. He took my nipple into his mouth and I let out a moan against my will. This noise that escaped me made him even more eager as he sucked and swirled his tongue against me. His free hand grasped my other breast and he moved his mouth to show it the same attention. I looked down to see him to find him staring at me as he moved his mouth even lower down my stomach.

“Can I remove your panties?” he asked.

“Yes,” I sighed. Just then, I felt his hands gently pull the sides of my lace underwear down my legs. He moved his body to the floor and pulled me to the edge of the bed. He went to place his mouth against my entrance when I squeezed my legs together and pushed him back with my hands.

“Do you want me to stop?” he asked.

“It’s just… I don’t…” I said embarrassed.

“You don’t want me to go down on you?” he asked.

“I…I’ve never had anyone do that to me before,” I admitted.

“I want to show you what you’re missing,” he said, teasing my thighs with his hands.

It’s not that Kenneth and I aren’t sexually active. Well, scratch that. I wouldn’t say we’re even active anymore, but we’ve had sex. We’ve had the same sex since we were teenagers. In the ten years we’ve been together, he has never gone down on me; I guess I’m too embarrassed to ask him.

While he was still kneeling on the floor, I looked into Josh’s eyes as his head was positioned between my thighs. I gave him a nod and laid my head back to stare at the ceiling. Before I knew it, his tongue began licking my entrance. Oh my God. I felt his tongue work its way up to my clit where he took his time. With each movement of his tongue, I felt my legs twitch out of my control. He continued to grasp my legs with his hands as my body writhed on the mattress. “Oh my God,” I moaned aloud. My thoughts were escaping me as I felt like I had lost total control of my mind, body, and soul. It felt like he was consuming me with every stroke of his tongue.

“Oh my God,” I practically screamed as I felt myself cum. I tried to squeeze my thighs together but he held them firm with his hands and continued to lick my clit. This feeling was nearly leaving me no longer conscious. “Fuck. Josh,” I moaned as I pulled his hair into my clenched fists. He continued to lick me until I could no longer stand it. I let out another scream and squeezed my thighs together so hard I thought I may kill him. He slowly pulled back and I could see his facial hair was dripping wet. Was that from me?

He kissed the top of my entrance one last time before sitting back on his hands and feet. I laid still on top of the bed, nearly unable to move as I tried to process what just happened.

“I’m going to clean up in the bathroom,” he said, waiting for me to respond before jumping up. I still couldn’t formulate a single word so I laid there waiting for my senses to come back to me. I heard him laugh as he left the room. I scrambled to find my bra and panties while he was gone. I can’t believe that just happened. I can’t believe what I’ve been missing.

I went to find my phone on the nightstand to see Riley had sent me a series of texts. I skimmed through them and tried to hide my laughter as I sent another check-in text:

Me: So. Much. To. Tell. You. Still alive and very well.

I hit send and put my phone back as Josh entered the bedroom. He found his sweatshirt and began to pull it over his head. He climbed into bed to lay next to me.

“What are you thinking about?” he asked softly as I could feel his gaze on me.

“What are you thinking about?” I returned his question with a question.

“I’m wondering how someone could be engaged to be married, yet they’ve never experienced one of God’s greatest creations,” Josh said with a laugh.

“Ken–He just never has,” I said as I stared into his eyes.

“He’s a moron. You deserve to feel that every day. I love providing that service,” he said with a smirk.

“I can tell you know what you’re doing, but I don’t want to know about your history,” I said, biting my lip.

“Your taste in particular…” he began to say.

“My taste?” I asked as my cheeks began to redden.

“You taste bitter and sweet… like a strawberry,” he said. “It’s incredible.”

“A strawberry?” I nearly squeaked.

“It’s now my favorite fruit,” he said as he kissed my forehead. He got up from the bed and handed me my clothes from the floor. “Dinner should be ready now,” he said with a laugh.

After freshening up in the bathroom, I made my way into the dining room to find Josh had already made us plates. The room smelled amazing. He opened the second bottle of wine and was pouring us new glasses when I took my seat at the table.

“This looks incredible, thank you,” I said as I waited for him to join me.

“It’s been simmering for a while,” he said with a wink as he placed my wine glass in front of me. He took the seat next to mine and handed me a spoon. I took a bite of the gulasz and fought the urge to moan again this evening.

“Oh my God,” I said.

“I’ve heard that before,” he said with a smirk. I reached out and pinched him on the arm as he playfully pulled away.

“This may be one of the best things I’ve ever tasted,” I said as I went for a second bite.

“I used to think that too before, well,” he said, raising his eyebrow at me.

“Shut the hell up,” I said laughing.

“So I saved your number in my phone as Strawberry,” he said with a wink. Should I ask him about the Google Voice thing? No, I don’t want to look crazy.

“You think you’ll need my number after tonight?” I said a little too bluntly.

“You’re still here for a few nights. Maybe we can do this again,” he said with a wink.

“I’m going to be too busy with bars, karaoke, dancing, and strippers,” I said with a smug look on my face. “I won’t be thinking about you.” He can tell I’m lying.

“Thank you again for dinner and for keeping me company,” I said as I collected our dishes to take them to the sink. Josh was searching the cabinets for plastic containers to package the leftover gulasz in.

“It was an honor,” he said with that brilliant smile of his. It was getting late and I had yet to decorate the Airbnb before the girls’ arrival tomorrow. I was in so much bliss that I had forgotten why I was in Nashville in the first place. I needed to clear his lips, eyes, smile, voice–everything about him from my mind. This was supposed to be Riley’s weekend but thoughts of his tongue consumed me. I walked Josh to the door as he moved in to kiss me goodbye.

“If I texted you, would you respond?” he asked with one foot literally out the door.

“I might,” I said as I bit my lip.

“I’ll take my chances,” he said as he walked out into the dark driveway. I watched him from the porch as he jumped into his Jeep to leave. I heard my phone ringing from the bedroom. I closed and locked the front door and then took off in a sprint hoping to see the name Plagiarism across my phone screen. Nope.

“Hey,” I said as I answered the phone with a heavy sigh.

“Why do you sound like you are out of breath?” Kenneth asked.

“I just had to run to the bedroom to catch my phone,” I said. “Why are you still up?”

“What did you have for dinner?” he asked instead of answering my question.

“I DoorDashed some pasta from a local Italian place nearby,” I lied into the phone.

“Really?” he asked.

“Mhm,” I said wondering why I felt like I was being interrogated.

“Then why is there no history of any orders from tonight on our DoorDash account?” he asked. Shit.

“I mean I called the restaurant and ordered over the phone. They delivered it,” I quickly added.

“Oh, and thanks for not leaving me anything to eat in the house,” he said.

“I went grocery shopping before I left. There are plenty of things in the fridge–” I began.

“Yeah, it would have been nice to have some leftovers, but instead I have to cook for myself,” he interrupted. He sounded drunk.

“Look, it’s late. I’m heading to bed. I’m tired from traveling and decorating the house, so if there’s nothing else you have to say to me,” I stated. Kenneth immediately hung up; my brief moment of boldness must have pissed him off even more. I shot Riley a quick text to let her know that I was alone, alive, and going to bed so she wouldn’t be worried before I left my phone on the charger.

I was desperately tired but I needed to decorate the Airbnb for Riley’s bachelorette weekend. I carried the packages of penis and hot pink cowgirl-themed decorations to the living room to begin. To stay awake, I turned on the TV to pull up YouTube to play some background music while I got busy. With the remote, I searched for my possible new favorite band, Greta Van Fleet. I scrolled through the first couple videos until I recognized the face on the thumbnails.

“What the fuck?” I yelled.

#josh kiskza fanfic #josh kiszka #joshua michael kiszka #greta van fic #greta van smut #greta van fleet

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big1ron · 8 months ago

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OK TIME TO BE INSANE.

SPIDER-CLONE GAME NIGHT.

Peter, Ben and Kaine have an organized game night just the three of them every month.

It’s a vital bonding activity for them. they usually start out pretty chill, but all three of them are competitive and when put together become remarkably stupid so it always ends in bloodshed. Intentional or otherwise

Physical fights break out but it’s closer to play fighting. Still, they all have super strength (and they all BITE) so something always ends up broken either way.

usually it’s hosted at Peter’s since he has the most stable apartment, but Ben also often hosts. Kaine sometimes chooses a location but usually doesn’t host himself.

Kaine always has relatively normal picks for games. Usually just something he picked up at a store on the way over. Party games that he leaves at Peter’s or Ben’s and never returns for. He has accidentally brought single player console games because Aracely told him he should try them.

They make do, just tracking each others scored and timing them.

The games Kaine chooses usually cause the least amount of contention and result in the last number of casualties.

Peter brings the classics. He sticks to his roots, but also enjoys console party games. Mario party, Mario cart, monopoly, bingo.

They get really into these.

Ben brings horrible nightmare games of his own design or that he finds on the internet. He’s doing it intentionally because he finds it funny. 3D twister, ultimate uno, monopoly 2, car jenga, speed bingo, and other picks that nobody should ever play.

(UNO got banned so Ben brought the horrible nightmare that is ultimate UNO, and it got ultra banned.)

He often modifies games for 3 players or to include spider powers in some way. Peter likes to stretch or break the rules of these which is just one more way for arguments to start

Ben likes spicy chips, Peter doesn't. Kaine will eat anything.

Kaine uses a fork for Cheetos but will eat a whole rotisserie chicken with his hands.

Ben makes fun of him but would do the same if he was just a little less polite.

Peter is horrified by this, but they do get it from somewhere.

Speaking of 3D twister, it’s played with four twister mats in the corner of a room and usually requires you to move furniture out of the way to play it. It allows you to climb the walls and ceiling.

Peter thought it would be a great idea to use webs for this game and got the three of them stuck in the weirdest position possible.

Nobody could reach a phone to call for help or cut themselves down so they just played truth or dare while waiting for the webs to dissolve. The inevitable screaming match wasn’t really helping.

Someone says something that sets Kaine off, he pops the stingers to cut himself free and attack them but the three of then just stare. Realizing they could have done that hours ago but all three forgot he could do that.

Ben and Peter are near evenly matched at Mario Cart. They get really into it, shouting and standing on the couch. Kaine pretends he doesn’t care because he’s really salty that he’s not good at it.

He’s a sore loser, taking more time just to make them wait cause he’s already behind. chooses Yoshi.

Still better than Aracely and most of the new warriors and that's all that matters.

Peter and Ben are amazing at it though. Spider reflexes go a long way for a nerd.

Peter still wins against Ben. Both have fully optimized carts Kaine just chose whatever looked cool.

As mentioned, they get very competitive.

One game night is hosted at a cafe and a villain gets thrown through their table. Miles has to step in to prevent them from ending the guy’s life. Or each other’s lives.

Even one extra person at the game table tends to work as a buffer. Even someone who’s also quite competitive like miles prevents them from getting too crazy.

its only when it's just the three of them in competition that it gets violent. they should never be the last three participating in a game. at parties one of them usually sits out of any given round.

(often Kaine cause he's antisocial and this ordeal doesn't help that. so Peter tries to force him to take his spot. or two of them can 'team up')

They’ve each tried to propose letting someone else join ‘Spider-Clone Game Night’ but the other two always refuse.

If one misses a game night the other two will harass him for months.

Most often happens to Kaine, but Peter has that Parker luck. He usually has a good reason and explanation whereas Kaine will just say he was out of the country and not give any followup.

Either way the other two track them down and force them anyways.

Peter proposed bingo for a chill night. There were casualties. It was an ordeal.

His own fault though. He got convinced it was rigged. Things just kept escalating.

Kaine fought an old woman.

Things always get out of hand whenever those three are in competition. The police have gotten involved a few times, the avengers. It’s still valuable bonding time. There’s more but that's basically what we have so far. Half of this was @spot-spots ideas cause they’re smart and right all the time.

#clones #spider clones #peter parker #spider-man #kaine parker #ben reilly #scarlet spider

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madamlaydebug · 1 year ago

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The Universe is always giving us clues to guide us on our journey. But have you been paying attention and listening?

Here are 5 Magical Messages from The Universe (and what they mean)…

1. WHEN YOU SEE SPECIAL NUMBERS IN SEQUENCE (111, 1111)

The 111 or 1111 sequence can be an incredibly meaningful sign of alignment in the process of manifestation. You might also see 222, 333 or perhaps even 555. Whatever the numerical sequence, these ‘Angel’ numbers are such a strong and powerful form of communication to let you know that things are all aligning very nicely.

The meaning: It’s a beautiful sign of alignment and message to let you know that you’re in the flow.

2. WHEN YOU EXPERIENCE A DELAY

Too often our first response to a delay is to feel pissed off or cranky, but what if the delay was ensuring that you were being guided or protected?

I remember a story of a guy that was ticked off because on his way to work one morning he stepped in gum on the pavement. He had to go home and change his shoes which meant he was going to miss his train. This was on the morning that a plane flew into his office building on 9/11. If he didn’t step in the gum, he would have been sitting at his desk.

The meaning: Everything (and I mean EVERYTHING) unfolds in perfect Divine timing.

3. WHEN YOU EXPERIENCE A COINCIDENCE

The Universe communicates to us via a language called synchronicity. This happens when we feel blown away by an occurrence that our reality collided with someone or something along the way.

The meaning: There are no coincidences, and when the synchronicities appear it’s an invitation to follow the white rabbit to the next set of instructions. You’re on a wild mission from the Universe.

4. WHEN A BOOK, COURSE OR PERSON APPEARS IN YOUR AWARENESS

Sometimes it’s impossible to ignore messages from the Universe when they keep being presented to you over and over again. Different friends might suggest a book for you to read or a person to follow on social media. When you hear things more than a couple of times, make sure you pay attention. It holds vital clues for something you need to explore.

The meaning: You are being guided, always.

5. WHEN YOUR INTUITION SEEMS TO BE HEIGHTENED

You might have a song in your head and then turn on the radio and it’s playing. You might have a knowing that a car space is about to be available in the frantic parking lot at Wholefoods. You might know if your phone is about to ring. All of this points to your consciousness being in a really cool space. You’re in the flow and the Universe can speak to your loud and clearly because your heart is open to listening.

The meaning: Give thanks for your intuition because the more you strengthen that faculty, the more it will work for you in your life.

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officialleehadan · 3 months ago

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Speaker Call

Counterparts

+++

Kiyan had never hunted a human before.

It was a strange thing, the departure from the rules he held himself to so closely for most of the last ten years. It was the most important boundary of them all. He knew himself too well. If he allowed himself human prey, he would drown the world with blood.

Now though, it was different.

Now he was hunting with someone who knew how to direct him, and someone who could pull him back if he started to go too far.

Now he hunted in a pack. A weapon, but for the first time in his life, a one he chose to be, in the protection of others.

“Are you okay with this?”

It was Delia. She was staying close, aware of the way his magic was flaring up, eager for the hunt for whoever tried to murder their teacher. She knew, could probably feel, the way that his longing for death was spiked higher than ever before. It was the first time he was hunting for something that right be able to fight back, and he was a little too eager for it.

Delia could feel the rise in his bloodlust, and she was letting her own light balance it just enough to make sur he had the power to work with, without getting overwhelmed. In a way it was good for her too. She was still overloaded from the needs of the school, and balancing his rising power gave her a safe way to spent her excess power.

In a way, this was possibly the best thing that could have happened.

Although given, he was largely against letting the people under his protection be murdered by someone he didn’t even know.

Of course, that was the first leg of the hunt. Making sure it wasn’t one of his so-called family.

“I don’t love it,” he admitted as he took a cup of tea, peppermint this time, with a little honey, from Master Huston. They were staying close as he made a very important call to his adopted mother, who ruled his ‘family’ and was invested in his success on his mission. If someone was interfering, she would know who, or she would want to know who. “But this is the fastest way to get information. If I play the angered prince, she’s likely to believe I’m still serving the cause.”

“I’m glad you’re ours, now,” she said and wrapped her arms around his shoulders from behind before pressing a kiss to his cheek. They hadn’t even kissed for real yet, but Delia was intensely fond of touch of all kinds, and took Kiyan’s acceptance as permission to drape all over him. Deeply touch-starved as he was, he was tentatively allowing himself to enjoy the closeness. “They won’t know what hit them.”

“As long as they haven’t figure me out already,” Kiyan said frankly and sighed. He let his head fall back on her shoulder and she took the opportunity to comb her fingers through his hair. “Right. Better get this over with.”

He dialed the number he never saved into any phone, for the security of his ‘family’, they said, but he thought it was more likely because they were afraid he would be captured and the number traced. Layers on layers. They didn’t trust him. They just didn’t know how right they were not to.

“Mother,” he said with false warmth when she answered, and silently switched the phone to speaker so Delia and Master Huston could hear the whole conversation. Master Huston had a notebook ready to record everything. Mother was the worst of them. The one who offered safety while encouraging the abuses of others. The honey after the beating. The one who broke him, more than any of the others in his family, because she was the one he trusted. “How are you?”

“My sweet boy,” Mother replied. She had a name, but even now, he was too broken to speak it, or even think it. The one time he dared, she beat him nearly to death. Now he couldn’t even remember what her name was. “How are you? Is everything alright at school? You never call me.”

She was worried, of course. He didn’t call unless it was vital. That was one of the rules. That he was calling now told her the situation was dire.

Her surprise was more interesting. If the killer in the school as her doing, she would know, or at least suspect, that as the reason for his call.

“There’s an infestation in the school,” Kiyan said, careful not to use language she would be suspicious of. She couldn’t know he had turned on her and the family. “It’s causing problems. I was wondering if you have any suggestions. It’s becoming bothersome.”

Mother was silent for a long minute, but he could almost hear her displeasure. “An infestation?”

“A little inconvenience for one of my teachers and an attempt on another. I thought it might be the work of one of my siblings. They do love their pranks.”

It burned him to call the murder of one of his teachers an inconvenience, and the loss of Master Huston would have been terrible if it had been successful at actually killing the revenant. Still, there was a specific language his mother would accept when it came to the teachers she hated so much. She wanted him to kill the ruling council. That included everyone between him and them.

“They do, but they’re grounded at the moment,” Mother said after more silence that suggested she was considering what to tell him. She never hesitated to lie to him, but he didn’t think she was doing so at the moment. “I would never let them interfere in your schooling. Your education is important to the family.”

His mission, she meant. The murder of every powerful spell-caster who stood between her and power.

“I thought as much,” Kiyan told her and met Master Huston’s eyes over the phone. He raised a brow and Kiyan shook his head. Whoever was hunting in the school, it wasn’t his family. “Would you ask them if they might know anyone who likes their kind of prank? I wouldn’t want my grades to suffer for it when I’m so close to graduation.”

“I will be sure to have a word with them,” Mother promised, just a hint of menace in her voice. She hated it when others got involved in her plots without permission. That there was an uninvited hunter in his school was a problem for her plans for murder. She didn’t care that the teachers were being killed. She cared that it might get in the way of her own desires. “Until then, you are taking care of yourself?”

“I am in perfect health, mother, as always,” Kiyan promised. She always asked. It was never sincere, but he knew the correct answer. “You’re well, I hope?”

“I am. I will pass your greetings to the family, and do let me know how the infestation turns out? I recall you being very good at managing such problems.”

“Thank you, mother. I hope you have a good evening.”

There was no reply. Just the beep that ended the call. Kiyan let out a long, slow breath and was deeply glad for Delia’s warm light, wrapped around him. The last time he had to speak to Mother directly, he had to go spend most of a day in his death-circle.

“It wasn’t them,” he told master Huston and Delia when he was able to speak again. “Whoever it is. It means they don’t have my family’s connections, but it also means they’re unknown. I do have official permission to handle things, which means I won’t get in trouble for being involved.”

“We can manage an unknown, but you having permission does make it easier,” Master Huston said, and sipped at his tea. Kiyan’s was still hot and the warmth was welcome. “Well done, youngling. That was a telling conversation. Thank you for trusting us with it.”

“Can’t switch sides without giving some information, right?” Kiyan said. He offered a scant smile. He was still new to this betrayal business, and he had good reason to fear his family’s cruelty. He knew what they were capable of. “That cuts out one enemy but leaves us with a new one. What do we do now?”

+++

Counterparts: (FULL COLLECTION)

In Light In Dark (Subscriber Only!)

Call to Quiet

Truth Confined

Truth Demanded

Betraying Champion (Subscriber Only!)

To Dust

Death-Blessed

Circle Called (Subscriber Only!)

White Roses

Between Balance

Spanish Guitar (Subscriber Only!)

Attempted (NEW!)

Speaker Call (NEW!)

+++

MASTERLIST

#Writing #Lee Hadan #fantasy #scifi #spilled ink #writing prompts

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asdminstituteahmedabad · 2 months ago

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What is Google My Business (GMB)?

Google My Business (GMB) is a powerful, free tool from Google that helps business owners manage how their business appears in Google search results and on Google Maps. With GMB, you can claim your local business listing and showcase essential details like your contact information, business hours, photos, services, and more. Whether it's the knowledge panel, local pack, or Maps, this information can appear across various sections of Google’s search engine.

For local businesses, GMB is essential. More than 60% of consumers who search for businesses online are ready to make a purchase. Mastering GMB can help drive these potential customers to your door, helping you fully leverage its features and maximize client engagement.

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Keywords and phrases people use to find your business.

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Number of website visits, calls, and directions requests.

2. Engage with Your Customers

GMB allows you to interact with customers through reviews and comments. You can also post photos, which can increase engagement. Businesses with photos in their GMB profiles see 42% more requests for directions and 35% more clicks to their websites than those without.

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With GMB, you can analyze how customers search for your business and where they're coming from. You can also track calls made directly from your GMB listing, allowing you to evaluate and improve your marketing strategies.

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5. Appointment Scheduling

GMB’s “Book an Appointment” feature simplifies the process for clients to schedule appointments. This is particularly useful for service-based businesses like salons, spas, and clinics, improving efficiency and customer satisfaction.

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Follow these steps to list your business on Google and start optimizing your online presence:

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How to Enhance Your Google My Business Listing

Once your profile is set up, go a step further to maximize its effectiveness:

Complete Your Profile: Ensure all fields are filled, including contact details, services, and hours.

Choose Categories Wisely: Select both primary and secondary categories relevant to your business.

Post Regularly: Share updates, offers, or news with weekly posts.

Add Photos Consistently: Fresh images can keep your listing engaging and up-to-date.

Respond to Reviews: Engage with customers by acknowledging their feedback.

List Your Products and Services: Ensure potential clients can see what you offer.

Use the Messaging Feature: Enable the messaging tool to respond quickly to customer inquiries.

Managing Your Google My Business Account You can also manage your business hours, special events, and customer interactions easily with the GMB mobile app. Through the app, you can:

Update your business details.

Post events or promotions.

Respond to customer reviews.

Conclusion

Google My Business is an indispensable tool for local businesses. With the features and strategies outlined in this guide, you’re well-equipped to optimize your GMB listing, attract more customers, and grow your business. Start leveraging GMB today and see the difference it can make for your business.

For more in-depth learning on digital marketing, check out ASDM's Digital Marketing Course in Ahmedabad.

#digital marketing #Google My Business #GMB #Digital Marketing Course #ASDM

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perhaps-in-anotherdream · 2 years ago

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[CN] Victor x MC – S2 CH 39 (Eng Translation)

“If the person speaking is you, I don’t need any other explanation.”

“Stop time for me, Victor.”

Do remember to read S2 CH 38 prior to this: Here!

⌚ This post contains detailed spoilers for a chapter that is yet to be released in the global server. ⌚

•─��───⋅◍♡◍⋅─────•

—

✧ [Context before the split routes] ✧

With the help of a little girl, MC is currently in a time-loop, allowing her to use the extra time the loop grants to her advantage -- i.e., trying to break the rules of the world using the power of the QUEEN, Evol energy, and the dark matter of the universe.

Each spilt route allows MC to obtain the information she needs to do her final showdown.

—

•─────⋅◍♡◍⋅─────•

—

✧ [Victor Split CH 39 - 1.1] ✧

Regarding the current situation, “time” is a factor of vital importance that must be identified.

According to the clues at hand right now, at the moment when the countdown ends, the two space-times should completely overlap, thus reaching the so-called “point of destruction.”

Even if I have sufficient energy, I still need to correspond to that particular time––

That critical point in time is clearly the key. Perhaps, I can begin with that.

Immersed in thoughts, I breathe out heavily. Looking at the high-rise buildings in the distance as they gradually bathe in the twilight, I suddenly think about Victor.

He pulled a gun on me before on the skywalk, transferring me to the BS Hall;

And then he gave me the black box through Zehn, handing me the prerequisite to enter the Black Cabin according to my will.

Although he hasn’t explained to me the motives for all these arrangements, through an ineffable feeling, I firmly believe that Victor is changing something in his own way.

If our purposes coincide, then Victor must need the information I know. Likewise, his power will help me as well.

With this thought in mind, I subconsciously take out my phone and dial Victor’s number.

But after a long time, there’s still no answer on the other end of the phone.

MC: Where could he be…?

As I mutter to myself in distress, I suddenly think of something and lift my feet in the direction of the BS Headquarters.

The last time we parted on the rooftop, Victor was carrying out an operation with the people of BS.

Right now, the BS Headquarters is most likely where I’ll be able to find him.

As I think about this, I can’t help accelerating my pace. Very soon, the towering BS Building enters my line of sight.

Preparing myself to face several cross-examinations, I draw a deep breath and lift my feet onto the steps.

But unexpectedly, the building, which has always been heavily guarded, is now empty, and no one is in sight. The only sound in the huge space is the echo of my disarrayed footsteps.

MC: What’s going on here…

Somewhat at a loss, I scan the surrounding. At this moment, I hear what seems to be voices coming from the depths of the hall.

My heart shudders. I cautiously forge ahead following the voices, faintly hearing a few vague words, “...still not connected yet…,” reaching my ears.

The light is obscure, and the corridor is a bit gloomy. As I prudently walk forward, I suddenly see a beam of light reflecting at the end of the hallway.

I advance cautiously, and through the daylight cast by the dome, I can see the dark red curtains hanging down and the seat in the center of the hall.

–– Once again, I’ve returned to the place where I had once been crowned as QUEEN.

It’s only that compared to when I left not long ago, there are a lot more figures in the hall right now. Although the sound of conversations can be heard from time to time, the atmosphere is somewhat solemn.

And those gloomy eyes land on me instantaneously the moment I show up. The immense sense of coercion causes me to hold my breath subconsciously.

I can already spot a few unfamiliar faces in the crowd.

Thinking back to the last time we met and how Victor said he would weed out the rotten parts of BLACK SWAN, a vague conjecture emerges in my heart as I look at those figures in the shadows.

It seems that he has indeed made BS go through rebirth, forming it into a new force in his hands.

Amidst the stares, I calmly straighten my shoulders and surpassing through the cracks between the shadows, I find Victor’s figure.

His head is slightly lifted, and he seems to be gazing over the hall.

Following his gaze, I find a faint golden arc floating in mid-air underneath the dome.

…isn’t that arc of light from the gate of the Black Cabin? How did it suddenly appear here?

Seemingly having already made a judgment in his mind, Victor slowly, very slowly glances in my direction, his gaze revealing a faint sense of oppression.

The instant he sees that it’s me, a trace of surprise plays across his slender eyebrows, and then it’s cast off by a moment of realization.

He doesn’t seem surprised that I’m here.

Taking a deep breath, I lift my foot and walk towards Victor under the attentive gazes of everyone.

As I draw closer to him, his stern eyebrows become increasingly clear on my horizon. In those serene eyes, which are as deep as a pool, I seem to detect a hint of deeply hidden exhaustion.

My heart tightens involuntarily. I suddenly can’t resist the urge to step forward, stroke away that tired complexion, and ask him about what on earth has happened.

But the constantly dwindling countdown above my head is reminiscent of a hanging sword that will fall at any moment, silently alerting me.

I clench my fists, trying hard to calm my emotions.

…Victor led these people to gather here, so that means he must be working out a strategy. In any case, now is not the time to pour out my heart.

I exhale softly, meet Victor’s indifferent gaze, and open my mouth in a steady tone.

MC: Knowing how precious everyone’s time is right now, I’ll get straight to the point.

MC: BOSS, I came looking for you to do a negotiation.

The atmosphere in the room suddenly becomes heavy. Out of the corner of my eyes, I even see someone’s Evol brewing white light.

It seems that so long as Victor gives the order, they will launch attacks on me at any time.

The arc of light from the door of Black Cabin hovers silently in the middle of the hall, and I can almost hear the sound of restrained breathing.

A while later, Victor taps his fingertips on the armrest, not gently but not heavily either.

Victor: Go on.

I tighten my fists a little, speaking every word after measuring them.

MC: I have some information about the overlapping worlds which I can share with all of you.

MC: In all likelihood, this will be a great help to what BS is planning now.

MC: Of course, if we reach a partnership, you guys can also use the power of CORE within me.

Several people next to Victor lift their eyes imperceptibly. Evidently, these words have hit right on the sore point.

A little more confidence suddenly brews in my heart, and then, I hear Victor speak.

Victor: In the situation at present, even if I refuse to do the so-called negotiation, you won’t be able to retreat from BS in one piece.

Victor: I don’t seem to have the need to do things that are unnecessary.

MC: Since I dared to come, I naturally have the means to escape.

MC: You and I are both very pressed for time. So, we don’t need to waste our breaths on this, am I right?

I look at Victor in neither servile nor overbearing manner, my tone not wavering in the slightest.

Victor raises his eyebrows, the corners of his lips faintly arching up into a curve. Then, he opens his mouth unhurriedly.

Victor: What’s your condition?

MC: I don’t have any conditions. BOSS can give me whatever he wants.

MC: After all, I also need as much information as possible to find the answers I want.

Victor gazes at me with an expression that’s hard to decipher, his tone carrying with it a vague sense of oppression.

Victor: The power of BS is not to be used so easily by outsiders.

Victor: The clues you have are not sufficient to be treated as a bargaining chip with BS.

This rejection seems to appear out of the blue. I open my lips, speaking subconsciously.

MC: I still––

Victor: I don’t need the power of CORE either.

Victor: I made that point very clear on the skywalk.

MC: …

Along with these words, Victor’s eyes look away from me coldly and seem to inadvertently and rather suggestively skim over the hall.

I subconsciously follow his line of sight. The moment I see the arc of light, my heart suddenly stirs.

MC: Even if BOSS doesn’t need CORE, I have the power to help you guys.

MC: There are some things that only I can do, isn’t that right?

I straighten up slightly and lock eyes with Victor meaningfully.

Although he still doesn’t say anything, the light in those eyes seems to be a little more affirmative.

The air lapses into a stalemate. I hold my breath, waiting with clenched palms. Victor shoots me a glance and finally nods.

Victor: In that case, tell us. What’s the information you’ve got?

—

•─────⋅◍♡◍⋅─────•

—

✧ [Victor Split CH 39 - 1.2] ✧

MC: The sky over this world is now covered with a massive string of countdowns.

MC: As all of you can see, there is now a static “special Loveland City” that is overlapping with ours.

MC: Even though the world is now static in a relative sense, just like the overlapping zones at the beginning, the time hasn’t stopped.

MC: Right now, it’s like we are all sitting on a fast-moving train.

MC: Though entirely unaware of it, it’s incessantly running toward the abyss. The train will collapse at the boundary point, and time––

MC: The moment when the countdown ends, the entire world will be completely overwritten, and the static space-time will start afresh.

MC: The hovering comet in the sky will then resume its motion, falling downwards.

The air of oppression is a little suffocating. I pause before continuing to speak.

MC: According to the stimulation-based calculation, this is how the world is originally set to end.

MC: Everything will come to an end at 19:17.

The room lapses into silence, and one can almost hear the sound of restrained breathing. After a while, Victor speaks.

Victor: And how long do we have before the countdown ends.

I speedily look up at the sky overhead. Against the obscure light and shadow backdrop of the hall, the digits are beating coldly and in a regular pattern.

MC: ...it’s now -43:13:10.

Victor’s figure freezes slightly, but his expression doesn’t give away any surprise.

While I’m a little puzzled, a rustling noise suddenly comes from before me.

A tall, short-haired youth stares into the for a moment with a tight frown on their face before stepping forward and opening their mouth.

??: It seems that the situation is indeed about the same as what we deduced.

From the side, another woman wearing glasses also turns around soon after and walks over to the door in a swift and decisive manner.

??: That being the case, there’s no point in wasting time.

??: We’ll leave first.

As soon as her voice falls, several figures of different sizes start walking out of the hall in tacit agreement. The short-haired youth also nods to Victor and leaves at a brisk pace.

Startled, I watch as less than half of the figures in the hall disappear in an instant. Victor doesn’t intend to stop them and indifferently turns his gaze to me.

Victor: Go on. What’s the solution you have in mind?

I hesitate to withdraw my gaze and open my mouth in a measured tone.

MC: …I have obtained some information.

MC: At the moment of overlap, I will need to use power far beyond the ordinary to change the already fixed course of the world.

MC: Only CORE won’t do. I will need to draw support from a lot of other forces as well.

MC: I will need to make them act simultaneously at that point in time to enable the world to break away from its original trajectory.

MC: Although it may necessarily not be successful, it’s a gamble I must take.

My restless trailing note disappears quietly into the air. Victor’s eyes flicker slightly, and after a while, he suddenly speaks.

Victor: All right. BS has received your message.

Victor: The door of the Black Cabin will be opened now.

With these words, Victor unhurriedly walks beneath the arc of light. Then, he turns sideways and looks at me.

Stunned, I sweep my gaze across the crowd standing in the hall and speak with some uncertainty.

MC: Right now?

Victor: What else? Or do you need me to give you time to mentally prepare yourself?

MC: …

I draw a deep breath and catch up with his footsteps despite so.

Although I’m not clear on what Victor’s intention is for asking me to do this, after all, he is the one who gave me the key to Black Cabin.

And since the negotiation has been reached, my next call is to use the power of BS.

With this thought in mind, I carefully take out the black box and grasp it in my palm with rapt attention, holding my breath.

With previous experience, the process of mobilizing the power is much smoother. Soon, a familiar warm current circulates around my body, and a vague feeling of strength leaps into my chest.

The field of view in front of me suddenly brightens a little, as if there are specs of light constantly converging.

I lift my eyes and see the faint arc of light gradually magnifying into a bright radiance, and the outline of a door of light slowly emerges in the air.

Victor raises his head, gazes quietly at the door of light for a moment, and then turns to look at me.

Victor: BS will honor its commitment, as promised.

MC: …I’ve got the words of BOSS. I’m relieved.

Victor seems to chuckle softly, his gaze sweeping over the fluorescent colors surging behind the door of light. I hastily open my mouth.

MC: So, BOSS, tell me what you think about this information.

Victor releases a “Mm,” lifting his chin lightly in the direction of the corridor.

Victor: [voice finally drops to the “Victor-softness”] Let’s go for a walk outside.

I freeze for a moment, realizing the next second that he seems to want to speak to me alone.

I shoot a glance across the entire hall and nod, taking the lead in walking toward the corridor and organizing the words in my mind.

But what I haven’t noticed is that Victor seemed to slow down his pace inadvertently.

The sound of footsteps in the corridor gradually fades away. Only at this moment does Victor lifts his eyes and catches up with the girl’s pace.

The moment before leaving the corridor, he glances behind him and opens his mouth in a quiet voice.

Victor: [even softer] You can continue.

—

They are walking on the street. Seeing people stopping to take photos of the static comet and resuming their strides, MC is musing about how people naturally start to accept the anomalies after a certain period.

At this moment––

??: Mom–– this is delicious. It’s so delicious!

A young and tender voice suddenly drifts from behind me. I turn my head and see a mother with her young daughter in her arms, coming towards us.

She strokes her daughter’s head tenderly, seemingly not noticing us. The child smiles and tries to lift the cake to her mouth, and as she is brushing past us, the kid’s hand suddenly tilts.

The identical scene took place in Souvenir before the comet descended, and I can’t help but be shaken to my soul.

–

[Tidbits]: MC is referring to S1 CH 37 Victor’s route btw~

–

Just as it appears that I’m about to be rubbed by the cake, my arm is suddenly pulled, and I’m brought to the side by Victor.

MC: …!

The young mother pauses in her footsteps uneasily, asking apologetically how I’m doing. I hurriedly wave my hand.

MC: It’s all right. I’m fine.

Victor sweeps his eyes over me up and down, speaking lightly.

Victor: [to the mother] Watch the road.

The young mother nods her head, apologizes, and leaves with her child in her arms.

Looking at their carefree and untroubled figures from behind, I sigh unconsciously, only to hear Victor suddenly speak.

Victor: [more like a whisper] I seem to have seen this scene before.

I freeze for a moment, turning my head around vigorously to look at Victor.

Shifting from the figures of the mother and child, he is gazing thoughtfully at the stars in the sky, but his expression shows a trace of certainty.

…could it be that the overlapping phenomenon, which exacerbates fluctuations, also has an impact on memories?

Or is he simply stating a point of view on the overlapping of worlds?

However, at this moment, I’m still incapable of saying anything. After a moment’s hesitation, I only purse my lips.

The noise of traffic drifts faintly from a distance. Feeling how silent I am, Victor glances at me.

Victor: If you can’t destroy the box, there will be nothing else left to be done.

Victor: Regardless of what form the cat in the box takes, it won’t matter at that point.

–

[Tidbits]: To clarify, Victor’s whisper earlier was about his memories, which he states later too. And here, he is talking about Schrödinger’s cat theory.

–

He makes this statement speciously, and I purse my lips in bewilderment.

MC: …box? Cat? What does it mean? Is it related to the plan you’re working on now?

Victor doesn’t answer my question.

He turns his head and simply looks at the comet in the sky again, changing the thread of discussion.

Victor: According to your reasoning, to prevent the overlap between the two worlds, it would take an extreme amount of energy.

Victor: This is something even beyond the scope of the Space-Time Bureau to resolve.

Victor: So, whatever you plan to do, there is one thing I can tell you with certainty.

The giant comet hangs in the sky as if it’s ready to come down at any moment. But the reflection it casts on Victor’s back is unable to cut down his drive for even a little bit.

Victor: The moment the countdown ends, that one instant is not enough for you to solve the problem.

My heart can’t help but sink a few notches along with these words.

MC: It means there is no possibility of solving this…

The air seems to sink into silence. Following this, Victor gazes at me for a long, long time, and then he smiles abruptly.

This smile is wrapped in an explicable depth of meaning, as if it depicts the faith and pride of simply putting one’s all into a fight when faced with desperate straits.

Victor: But I can elongate that instant.

—

•─────⋅◍♡◍⋅─────•

—

✧ [Victor Split CH 39 - 1.4] ✧

MC: …!

My eyes widen slightly, and I’m just about to speak. But Victor reduces his pace and stops in front of a building.

I subconsciously follow his gaze. A gray, towering church stands against the backdrop of the night, as though overlooking the turmoil of everything.

Victor stares at it quietly for a moment. Soon after, he lifts his feet to mount the steps.

Victor: Let’s go inside and have a look.

Victor raises his hand as he speaks, pushing open the closed door.

–

I follow his steps. As we draw nearer, we find that the solemn church is now completely empty.

There are only a few black crows perched on the dust-covered benches, combing their feathers peacefully. I glance around and sigh softly.

MC: …it seems that everyone is a bit apathetic to the crisis. No one is coming to pray.

MC: If people learn that the world is about to perish, I’m afraid they won’t have the heart to come here even more.

Victor shakes his head. By the time he opens his mouth, his voice has regained his characteristic forever calmness.

Victor: On the contrary, this place will be packed with people at the time.

Victor: When despair reaches the pinnacle, and powerlessness becomes apparent, one can only hope and pray.

Victor: Churches, temples… they will desperately long for a pair of hands that can pull them out of the abyss.

Victor: Whether it comes from the gods, or some other unknown forces.

The intense colors of the night filter in through the glass windows, silently projecting into this spacious and empty space. The fine specks of dust quietly float in the air.

I close my eyes, and I can almost see the scene of this place being flooded with prayers and the sound of cries. My heart suddenly indescribably feels a little sour.

If there really is a god in this world who can save all this, perhaps I will also fall to my knees in despair, praying for a stable tomorrow for myself and my loved ones;

But the unceasingly approaching countdown above my head doesn’t allow me to immerse myself in this delusion.

There is nowhere else to place my hopes but in myself. The only thing I can do right now is to grab hold of the only opportunity I have.

I breathe out softly, and after a moment, I incline my head to look at Victor’s side profile.

MC: The thing you said just earlier… what did you mean?

Victor gazes fixedly into my eyes and speaks in a profound tone.

Victor: I meant it literally.

Victor: At the moment when the countdown ends, you need to use the power to change the ending of the world’s destruction. But a split second of time may not be sufficient to sustain you to get it done.

Victor: I don’t precisely know the basis of your action, but I trust your judgment.

Victor: I can pause that instant for you and elongate your time.

Victor: Make good use of it and strive for more possibilities.

MC: …!

My eyes widen slightly. Just as I’m about to speak, I’m interrupted.

Victor: I know you’re looking for the power to change the course of the world.

Victor: But that’s the extent of what I can do for you now.

Victor’s voice seems a little softer than in the past. Realizing something, I shake my head.

MC: That’s enough. After all, the responsibility of finding that power falls upon the CORE.

I pause as I speak, looking into the deep colors of his eyes, and speak one word at a time.

MC: Victor, actually… I’ve already begun my actions to this end. We’re in a time loop right now.

MC: I used someone else’s Evol to extend 48 hours before the countdown ends.

MC: This will buy me as much time as I need to prepare for the requirements.

Victor listens to me quietly, and after a while, he perks up the corners of his lips.

Victor: Reasonable and good response.

Blinking, I gaze at him with a bit of playfulness.

MC: That’s all? And here I was, hoping you could give me some guidance.

Victor: [even softer than before] Dummy.

Along with this word, a large, warm, and powerful hand gently lands on my head.

Victor: [sighs helplessly] You’re already doing very well.

Victor: I have a far less clear grasp of the truth than you do, and I will not be able to respond to it any better than you.

Victor: Over the years, I have heard my own voices in my head, but I don’t have any memories related to them.

Victor: I have also faced many situations that cannot be explained by common sense.

Victor: I had already put together the approximate picture in my mind. And now, as the overlap constantly intensifies, the complete image is gradually becoming clear.

MC: …!

I can’t help but freeze for a moment, suddenly thinking of something.

Regardless of whether it was the first time I met Victor in this restarted world or the time I ran into danger in the hospital, I indeed heard Victor’s voice in my mind.

–

[Tidbits]: Refreshing the callbacks – Victor is referring to his flashbacks throughout S2 (both in the story and R&S), and specifically S2 CH 4, CH 25, CH 31~ And MC here is specifically referring to their reunion 4 years ahead of time– “Meeting in the past date” and S2 CH 4.

–

It turns out he has detected something is amiss with this world since such a long time ago?

I purse my lips, but feel Victor running his fingers through my hair, as though giving me a kind of reassurance.

Victor: All the existence that worries you now, I will make it end with that ending.

Victor: Don’t worry about it. Just go do what you want to do.

Victor: You can do it.

Victor’s tone is calm, and it reveals a certainty.

Beginning from the moment we met, even though he’s been vaguely aware that I’m shouldering some secrets, he still chose to trust me.

He chose to be part of my strength and my confidence.

A slight sourness surges into the rims of my eyes. I look into his eyes and nod slowly.

MC: [tears in eyes] …Mm, I will do it.

–

[Anika’s Notes]: dropping it bc why not–– the music for this part is his 5th birthday BGM, so you can imagine how deeply this hits~ ;-;

–

As if in response to my words, the church bells ring out suddenly, reverberating loudly in the spacious and empty hall.

Given a scare, the crows resting on the benches suddenly fly up, their pitch-black feathers slowly floating down along with the long, coarse cry.

The crisscrossing light and shadow of the glass windows shine on Victor’s body, and the tender colors also reflect in that pair of serene eyes, reminiscent of a beautiful dream.

Although this moment is brief, it’s enough to give me the encouragement to move forward.

I look up at the time above my head–– it’s already time for this cycle to end.

I withdraw my gaze and speak softly to Victor.

MC: Victor, I’m going to restart this period of time.

MC: There are still some things waiting for me to figure out.

Victor doesn’t say anything more. Like the countless goodbyes before, he only looks at me gently and nods.

Victor: [gentlest of the voices to exist] Go.

I answer a soft “Mm.” But suddenly thinking of something, I open my mouth with hesitation.

MC: But when time reinstates, you won’t remember anything that happened now.

MC: [pouty] The promise you made to elongate time for me, will it still be valid at that time?

Victor seems to curl the corners of his lips into a smile. He takes a step closer in my direction and lifts his hands, bringing me into his arms.

Victor: [gentlest of the voices to exist] On this matter, you don’t ever need to harbor doubts.

Victor: [gentlest of the voices to exist x2] As long as you find me before that moment arrives, I will honor my promise.

His reassuring scent seeps into every breath I take. I hug the person in front of me back and speak in a muffled voice.

MC: [still pouty] So when that moment comes, do I have to explain the situation to you from scratch again?

A very soft chuckle drifts to my ears.

Victor: [gentlest of the voices to exist x3] No need.

Victor: [gentlest of the voices to exist x10] If the person speaking is you, I don’t need any other explanation.

Apprehension, hesitation, restlessness…

All the haze lingering in my heart dissipates at this moment in the ringing of the church bells, and in the warmth of this man’s arms.

I take a deep breath, look up into his eyes, and make my promise as I utter it word by word.

MC: Victor, the answer you want to know will surely drop at that end.

MC: Even if I’m unable to achieve it this time, I will keep striving until the moment it happens.

Victor: Mm, I believe that.

I lift the corners of my lips and gently let go of my grip on his coat.

MC: Victor, see you later.

—

•─────⋅◍♡◍⋅─────•

—

✧ [CH 39-3] ✧

[Note]: Players have to complete all 5 split routes to reach this stage.

MC thanks the little girl for her help. Then, she contacts the other boys via phone call (Lucien, Helios, Gavin) to let them know about the information she ultimately has, so that they can continue as planned.

Then—

MC runs for the BS Headquarters—

—

The door of light of the Black Cabin still stations there quietly in the center of the hall. Probably Victor is still carrying out his plan.

Time ticks by second by second. There is very little time left in the countdown, but my heart is exceptionally tranquil.

If hard work is said to be the backbone behind any success, then what I’m carrying now on my back is in no way simply my solo effort.

The countless figures who have advanced on different paths, sparing no effort, are what have given me the unbounded motivation to have the courage to face the future.

The next second, Victor walks out of the shadows along with the twelve main gods.

He stands at the head of the crowd with a fully concentrated gaze, the light descending from the dome outlining his solemn and proud expression.

He stares at me. The moment our eyes interlock, I see a trace of pacifying reassurance streaming through his eyes.

I steel my mind and stand on the high platform of the throne, looking at everyone with a calm expression.

MC: I am BLACK SWAN QUEEN.

MC: Stop time for me, Victor.

—

•─────⋅◍♡◍⋅─────•

⏳ Victor’s Split Route (CH 40): Here!

[Heads-up from Anika]: will highly recommend reading / revisiting Victor’s S1 CH 37 split route, and “Meeting in the Past Date” as preparation for the split route ahah—— ಥ⁠‿⁠ಥ

—

#HEAVENS!!! the way that final part gave me shivers LOL *bows to Her Majesty and His Majesty* 👑#the irony of MC’s last line though🫠 one of Victor’s character tagline is — “I want your time to stop only for me.”#AND THE WAY SHE GOES AND SAYS– “DO IT”🤣🫠anyway jokes aside— she says later how her time does only stop for him “in the literal sense” ;-;#Another thing: the way the writers highlighted Victor’s “Christ Figure” themes – was MORE STRIKING THAN EVER——#also the tacit understanding. chemistry. silent communication. unconditional trust– EVERYTHING Victor x MC ಥ⁠‿⁠ಥ #mlqc victor #mlqc li zeyan #mlqc #mr love victor #mr love queen's choice #恋与制作人 #李泽言 #love and producer #mlqc cn #mlqc spoilers #mlqc translations

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storm-angel989 · 4 months ago

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how would vox and the other vees react to the school calling voxs ohine saying his daughter had a seizure at school? Btw I love ur writing keep uo the good work bbg.

Hi there! So I actually have a similar request that I’m working on parallel to this. So consider this one reader’s origin story in a sense. I don’t have epilepsy myself, but I do have folks in my life who do so I hope I did your request justice!

The spike in her vitals sent the instant alert to Vox’s phone.

At first, he thought it was a glitch. After all, his daughter seemed fine when he dropped her off at preschool that morning. Same as every other day, she had hugged him goodbye and ran into the school eager to begin the day. When he saw the school’s number, he assumed she had gotten hurt on the playground. Scraped her knee maybe, or worse case- a broken arm. But as he sat in the limo that raced towards the hospital, he wished that had been the case.

We always call an ambulance the first time a student has a seizure at school, the school nurse had told him. I understand your preference to treat her at home, but this is our policy.

Part of him knew she was doing her job. The other part of him was livid that his daughter was sent to a hospital. As if she was a commoner and not the daughter of one of the most powerful overlords in hell. He pushed his way inside and shoved those in line out of the way.

“My daughter has been brought in and I need to know where she is right now,” Vox growled at the receptionist. “And then I want her discharged and sent home.”

“You’ll have to wait like everyone else in line…” the nurse began.

Electricity crackled. He grabbed the counter and glared at her.

“Do you have any idea who I am?” he snarled. “Bring me to my daughter, now.”

To his utter dismay, the nurse looked completely unbothered.

“I couldn’t care less who you are. We have rules that need to be followed. Get in line behind everyone else and wait your turn.” She told him calmly.

Vox’s anger boiled. Just as he was about to make every piece of data on this woman vanish, a familiar voice pulled his attention away.

“Daddy!” a little voice called from the stretcher.

He raced over to her and one of the nurses began to tell him to step aside. Vox turned around, eyes glowing red.

“You can fuck right off. This is my kid, and I want her discharged immediately.”

“Sir, you can’t…”

“It’s kidnapping if you don’t. I said, stop touching my kid,” he snapped, “release my kid, now. Or I will have you charged with assault.”

Less than a half hour later, reader was settled into the familiar hospital room in her Uncle Valentino’s studio. Around her, her Aunt Velvette and Uncle Valentino fussed, fluffing her pillows and straightening her blankets as they waited for the doctor and Vox to come back in.

“Babygirl, how do you feel?” Valentino asked as he smoothed back her hair. “Can Uncle Val get you anything?”

Reader shook her head. “Tired, Uncle Val. I want to sleep.”

“In a few moments baby, lets hear what the doctor has to say,” Velvette replied quickly.

The door swung open and both Vox and the doctor stepped in.

“Hey baby,” Vox said quietly as he sat down on the bed with her. “How are you feeling?”

“Tired,” she replied as she reached for him. “Daddy, I want a hug.”

Vox carefully took her into his arms and kissed the top of her head. “Daddy’s here. Let’s listen to what the doctor has to say, okay?”

Reader nodded and turned her attention to the doctor.

“Reader, your tests show that you have epilepsy. Epilepsy is when your brain sends too many electrical messages at once and that causes seizures, which is what happened to you today. It’s almost like…” the doctor paused and looked to Vox. “Almost like when your Dad gets mad and his screen fizzes out for a moment. Your brain does the same thing, and it can make you forget what’s happening and make you quite tired.”

“Am I going to die?” Reader asked fearfully.

Vox felt her hands grip his shirt. He shook his head no and hugged her tighter. “No, baby. It’s serious, but at the core it's just something unusual that happens in your brain. We can treat it, to an extent, but we’ll teach you what to do to keep you safe, okay?”

“We can talk more later on, and come up with a plan,” the doctor added. “For now, you’re clear to go home. Sleep in your own bed. You’ll see me again tomorrow for a few more tests, and we can discuss what to do next. Sound good?”

Reader nodded. She laid her head on her father as he scooped her up and carried her back upstairs, Velvette and Valentino close behind.

“Daddy, Auntie Vel, Uncle Val? I’m scared. Stay with me?” Reader asked once the elevator door closed. “I don’t want to be alone.”

“Always baby,” Vox replied with a kiss to her forehead. “I think we could all use the rest.”

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resi4skz · 8 months ago

Text

This is just a PREVIEW! I'm working on so many oneshots and fanfic series so time is an essence!

Pairing: Chris Bang x Ariel Carter (OC), Han Jisung x Gianna Reagan (OC)

"Oh for fuck sake," I groan as I grab my phone. It had been ringing non stop all day today and I couldn't afford to lose any time. I had a lot of orders that were pending and I was on the last decorations for the third order when my phone rang.

But it was a number I didn't recognize. "Hello?"

"Is this Ariel Carter?"

"This is she."

"My name is Dr. Bahng from Blueprint General Hospital."

I freeze. And my heart starts beating faster. "I'm calling in regard of Ms. Gianna Reagan."

My heart drops and blood drains from my face. No. Please. Not her. "Are you sitting down, Ms. Carter?

"No."

"I suggest you si-"

I cut him off. "Just tell me."

I hear him sigh on the other end as tears threaten to fall down my cheeks. I clutch my phone tighter. "I'm sorry but Ms. Reagan is currently in a coma but in a stable condition."

"Coma?" I asked. "Wait, what happened?" If that son of a bitch touched her again....

"She was found laying outside the ER entrance in a bad shape. She's got a few broken ribs and a broken arm but the majority of the trauma was to the head."

Tears fall down my cheeks as a sob escapes me. I swear to god if I see Mark, I'm gonna kill him. "When can I come and see her?" I asked, wiping my cheeks.

"That's what I called. Because there are some forms that need to be filled out," he replied.

"I can be there in 20 minutes."

--------------------------------------------------------------

I don't know how I managed to drive to the hospital but let's just say I broke a few traffic laws. Making my way through the ER, I asked for Gianna and I was told to wait for the doctor. I'm not great with waiting so I called my other best friend. "Hannie."

"Noona, what's wrong? What's happened?"

"Gianna. She..." A sob escapes my mouth.

"Where are you?"

"Hospital."

"I'm heading there now." The line goes dead and I start pacing on the floor. I need to see her to confirm that it was Mark. That bastard. I told her to break it off the first time he raised a hand on her. But knowing her, she wanted to give him another chance. That chance turned into many and 2 years later, this was the outcome. "Fuck, Gianna. You should've called the cops or me or anybody."

"Ms. Carter?"

I turn around and my breath hitches in my throat. Brown styled hair, blue scrubs on with a white coat on top. "Yes?"

He gives me a quick smile. Holy dimples. "I'm Dr. Bahng, the one who spoke with you on the phone?"

"Ah, yes! How is she doctor?"

"Her vitals are good and her brain activity hasn't improved much so we can't really know for sure when or if she'll wake up."

"Please," I say, eyes full with tears. "She's.... she's the only one I have. Please, save her."

"Ms. Carter, I'm doing everything I can to make her comfortable as possible. And I will make sure she wakes up, no matter what, yeah?"

I didn't even realize that he had an accent. It was laced with honey, very intoxicating. "Can I see her?"

"Of course. Let me tell one of the nurses and she'll take you to her," he replied and smiles. "I'll check up on her in a bit."

"Thank you."

As he leaves, I see Han running towards me, wearing a hoodie and jeans. "Noona!"

"Hannie."

He crashes into me, enveloping me in a hug. I hug him back, burying my face into his shoulders. "Is she..?"

I shake my head. "She's in a coma. That fucker put her in there!" I cry our, tears flowinf down my cheeks.

"It's okay, noona," Han says softly, rubbing my back. "She'll be okay. She has to be."

Sometime later, the same doctor comes into the waiting room. He sighs as he closes the door behind him. "Ms. Carter, I'm afraid I have some bad news."

"Is she okay?" I stand up, feeling a bit dizzy but it goes away after a second.

"Unfortunately, Ms. Reagan's brain activity isn't improving," he replies. "But I am doing everything in my power to make sure she wakes up."

"Please." I sob, clutching my arms and Han stands beside me. "Save her."

"The swelling in the brain isn't showing improvement at the moment. I'm putting her in 72hr watch for now."

"Thank you," Han says on my behalf.

"I can't," I say, the dizziness coming back.

"Noona?"

Gravity takes me to the ground, a pair of arms go around me as a pair of arms go around me.

TO BE CONTINUED....

#bang chan #christopher bang #stray kids bang chan #chris bang #fanfic #han jisung #han jisung fanfic

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twinkleallnight · 2 years ago

Text

Home is where my family is.

Book: TRR AU

Characters: Rashad x Kiara, Noah their son.

Word count: 2533

Disclaimer: All characters belong to pixelberry.

Rating: Mature

Warning: assassin attack, violence, hospital, sickness.

A/N: Meet Kiara and Rashad's grown up son Noah and live their story. Thanks a ton to @lizzybeth1986 for brainstorming this one. Not beta'd . Errors are all mine. Hope you enjoy this as much as i enjoyed writing it.

Prompt: Day 4 of @kiaratheronappreciationweek .

Holding hands, forehead kisses and love confessions for @choicesmonthlychallenge

Prompt 1&3 for @choicesflashfics week 23

It was a silent and gloomy morning. The weather was dull, the clouds refrained the warmth of sun rays from reaching the lap of the earth.

The young man turned his back to the window but the room was equally depressing. He ran his fingers through his thick, wavy, black hair. He pulled them back shaking his brains for some solution to the problem at hand. His mind again reached a dead end and he released his grip in frustration. His silky hair bounced back to softly kiss his temples.

His dark chocolate eyes flickered between the wall clock and the display of numbers on a monitor. He thanked God for blessing him with the knowledge of medicine. It was helping him keep a check on the vital signs. 'Few more minutes.' he counted. His eyes developed a mist when he took in the sight of the listless figure lying on the bed. The room was quiet and It may feel unoccupied lest for the constant beep of the monitor. A monitor giving a sign of the body that was alive, breathing, surviving.

He heard a soft murmur. He leapt forward to the bed. Her whimpers grew louder but they were still incoherent. He rested his hand on her shoulder to calm her down. She opened her eyes in response. Her vision was blurred after the heavy medication. She lifted her hand to touch him. Her fingers trembled. He supported her hand. She reached his wavy hair and combed her hand through them. "Rashad?"

He felt a bit disappointed. She was in delirium. "It's me, Maman. Noah. Pappy will be here anytime now."

"Hmmm." she let out a weak moan and closed her eyes. In a couple of seconds, she was again fast asleep.

Noah let out a sigh. He settled back in his chair, next to her. His thoughts took him down the memory lane when he was a little boy.

"Maman, I am your son, I am not Pappy's son, right?" He asked her innocently, sitting in her lap.

"And why does my bébé think so?" She questioned him.

"Pappy is brown. But I am darker like you."

Kiara threw her head back in laughter. "Yes Noah, you have the same colour like Maman and Pappy is brown because he has less melanin than us."

"Mill an? What is that?"

"Mon petit doctor! Melanin are tiny colour dots in our body."

"Maman, when I grow up to become a doctor I will help Pappy get more dots."

"He doesn't need more, Noah. We are all made different and we are beautiful in our own ways."

"Then how will I have something the same as Pappy?"

"You already have. You have your Pappy's beautiful hair." She raked her fingers through his fluffed side locks and pulled them back. His hair bounced back just like Rashad's did. Kiara bent down to kiss Noah's hair over his temple.

"And most important of all you have got your Pappy's big heart."

"But my heart is tiny."

"It is. But you have the power to love us all with your tiny little heart. Maman loves you for that."

Noah came back from his reverie and wiped the corner of his eyes. He chuckled then picked up his phone to message his father.

'She woke up for a few minutes.

I was next to her

but she thought it was you.'

He hit the send button and softly placed the cell phone on the table, without a sound. He then reclined on the chair to relax for sometime. 'Pappy will be here soon. Hold on, Maman.' he tried telling her, before closing his eyes.

**********

Rashad was lost in memories of Kiara while his driver maneuvered the SUV around the bends of the road through the mountains. A smile played on his lips as he remembered their petty fights at work, when she was just an acquaintance. And he was possibly the most annoying professional colleague to her. Their first meeting for the council work was still fresh in his mind. As if it was yesterday….

Her chamber was located on the second floor right next to the staircase. A brass nameplate hung over the wooden door. As her daily ritual she stood in front of her office and read out proudly, “Kiara Theron, Minister of External Affairs.”

“If you are done gloating, we can start doing some actual work.” His husky male voice startled her. She turned to face Rashad who held a bunch of files in his hands. He forced his way through the doors of her office, ignoring her.

Kiara stomped behind him. He dumped the documents on her table with a thud and turned around. She was right in his face, furious, as she yelled at him, “Who do you think you are? Speaking rudely to me and then barging right into my office without my permission.”

He placed his finger on her tiny nose and gently pushed her back. “I prefer to talk across the table. Safe distance, you see.”

Kiara stumbled in her step before stabilizing herself. She moved across the table and pointed towards the door, “And I prefer you knock on the door before you come in and talk to me.”

He shrugged his shoulders, “Fine, I will inform His Majesty that the external affairs Minister was too busy drowning in her own glory to talk.” He picked up the files and started walking towards the door.

“Hey, wait!” He didn’t listen. “I said, STOP.”

He froze but didn’t turn back. Kiara scooted towards him. She stood between the door and Rashad. “Liam sent you?”

“Not exactly. I thought I would come to your office and make it easy for you, since it’s your first time working with my department.”

Kiara crossed her arms, “And this is how you welcome a new colleague?"

"I am sorry." He started checking his pockets. "Now where did I keep that red carpet?"

"Arghhhhh! I am done with you!"

"The pleasure is all mine." He smirked.

*********

Just then his phone beeped. He shook his head, smiling still thinking of his wife as he opened the inbox. His brows furrowed on reading their son Noah's message. He instructed his driver to speed up and replied to Noah,

'Will be there in an hour.'

He looked out of the window again. Worry still reflecting on his face. He could feel his heartbeat racing, current events taking him back to the incident that had troubled him years ago, returning to haunt him……..

****************

The melody playing in the background, the grandeur of the ambience, the silks and satins, the rich aroma of food and the splurging drinks. The festival of five kingdoms was in its full glory. Kiara and Rashad had collectively helped acquire great deals for the council and the members were all praises for them.

What Rashad started as a waggery at work soon turned into respect and admiration for Kiara. She was wise, intelligent, focused, determined and hard working. She was definitely the beauty with brains. Rashad would never admit it but he was not just in awe of her smartness he was smitten with her smile, her brown eyes. He was falling for her.

He was holding the drinks in his hands, Sazerac for himself and a Catena wine for her. He was making way through the crowd towards her when he heard the loud boom. The next moment he was on the floor, covering his ears, the crystal shattered into million pieces around him. There were screams between the gunfire. He could see someone scrambling to his left and hear a few footsteps running from his right.

'Kiara? Where is Kiara?' He got up and rushed to the direction where he had left her. His palpitations increased further when the scene unfolded in front of him. She was struggling, putting up a fight with someone who looked like a…. Like a killer. 'Assassin!' he thought and ran towards her. He could see the shine of the metal between them. 'dagger.' his mind registered. But before he could reach her, the damage was done. The ruthless murderer had pushed the blade into her side.

She stumbled back. "Kiara!" Rashad screamed. The assassin saw him and ran away in the opposite direction.

Rashad picked up at her falling frame. "Kiara? Kiara?"

She groaned in pain holding her side around the heel of the knife. Her eyes seemed to be rolling back.

"Ki… Kiara. Look at me. Keep your eyes open. I promise I won't let anything happen to you." He looked around, "Help! We need help here!

He lowered her to the floor. He pulled out his kerchief and untied his cravat and tucked the pieces of cloth around her wound, careful not to move the handle of the knife. He covered her with his coat. He cupped her face with one hand and felt she was going cold. He again yelled,"Help! Please!"

This time someone heard him maybe and before he could register what was happening, he was in an ambulance beside her, speeding through the Cordonian streets.

The blaring of a horn from a passing vehicle brought him back to the present. He realised he was sweating. He dabbed on his forehead and checked his watch. He looked around. They were in the Capitol already. He texted Noah and hastened to wrap his belongings in the vehicle.

The driver entered the hospital and Rashad dashed to the second floor.

He entered the room and froze. The scene before him was like deja vu. He had seen her in a hospital bed years ago. Her delicate body connected with numerous wires to the gadgets that hummed and beeped. But this time he could not tolerate it. He did not want it to be this way. His beloved wife, His Kiara, tied to the wires that claimed to predict her survival. He swallowed thickly.

Noah saw the uneasiness etched on Rashad's face. He stepped forward and placed a comforting hand on his father's shoulder. He then ushered him in, and guided him to the chair next to Kiara's bed.

Her body looked lifeless. Her eyes were sunken hollows. Her skin had lost the sheen. Her black hair made a train behind where her head lay. The silver strands in between were the proof of years spent together.

Rashad placed his hand next to hers. His fingers just touched hers. He was scared. Scared of waking her. Scared of hurting her. Scared of losing her. He felt a lump in his throat when he held her hand.

He shifted his gaze from her fingers,back to her face and suddenly felt the spin in the room. His mind whirled him to the hospital room many years ago. Kiara lying in the bed in the same way but much younger. He could feel as if it was just yesterday.

He wasn't as patient as he is now. He thought back about that time....

He was eager and restless, for her to open her eyes. He was shy to touch her but he couldn't wait anymore. So, with much hesitation, he brushed his fingers over hers and then gradually built up the courage to hold her hand.

"Kiara," he said to her sleeping form. "I am sorry, I couldn't reach you in time. I am sorry, you had to go through this pain."

He snuggled her hand between both his palms. His head hung low as he tried to speak, keeping the tears in his eyes at bay.

" I… I don't want to live in denial anymore. I like you a lot Ki…" he swallowed trying to control the overwhelming feeling. "I want to live and enjoy moments with you. I want to spoil you with gifts. I want to share with you. Please don't give up so soon. Please give me a chance. God! Please let me, once…"

He broke. His forehead rested on her hand that he held. Tears crossed the dams of his eyes to flow down freely. A hitched sob struck in his throat. He was so deep in his sorrow that he missed her fingers curling over his.

A feeble voice said, "Don't you have a better deal to offer, Mr Lawyer?" Rashad looked up with a jerk. Kiara's eyes were open only to a narrow slit. Rashad wiped his tears with one hand, holding her hand with the other. He smiled at her, "Anything you want. If there was ever anybody meant for me, it’s you.” He got up and placed a kiss on her forehead. He sat back and lifted her hand to kiss it again and again. He didn't want to hide anymore. He didn't want to miss his second chance.

"I will get the doctor." He got up to leave. Just as on cue, the door opened and in came the Theron's- Hakim,Joelle and Zeke.

"Kiki! Are you alright?" Joelle rushed to her side. They were all so worried and anxious,they didn't realise Rashad was standing there. Joelle held her hand while Hakim patted her forehead. Zeke filled in, "The security detail was so tight. They were not ready to reveal your location, whether you are at a safe house or a hospital. We came as soon as they spilled the information."

Kiara was listening,quietly. She was happy to be able to see them all. She raised her eyes to follow the receding figure of Rashad. He stopped at the door and turned back to meet her gaze. At that moment she knew that though her family was with her but where her home was, where her heart was.

*********

Rashad was praying silently when he felt her fingers move in his hands. His lips curled up. He raised his head to meet her eyes and she smiled back. He cupped her face with one hand "Did you sleep well, mon amour?"

She gave a slight nod.

"How are you feeling now?"

Her lips parted but speaking looked like an effort. Her eyelids closed slowly and opened again. She rolled her tongue out to moisten her lips. Rashad caressed her. He was not in a hurry. He was going to be there for her. He let her take time. Finally she let out a sigh and said, "I am much better, now that you are here."

"And I am not going anywhere."

"You are a busy man."

Rashad protested, "I am staying right here till you get better and we walk you home."

"Noah?" She asked for her son. He swiftly moved across the room to be at her side.

"I am here, Maman."

She called him closer and planted a kiss on his head. He kissed her back on the cheek and gave her a side hug. She had his arm around her. She looked at Rashad and tugged at his hand.

Rashad moved closer to her, giving her a side hug from the other side.

"We have come a long way, you and I" she gave him a weak smile.

"We will be home soon." He whispered in her ear.

She glanced at both her sides, her son and her husband besides her, each holding one of her hands. "Home is where my family is." She said and closed her eyes in the warmth of her husband's embrace.

Tags: @3pawandme @alj4890 @angelasscribbles @bascmve01 @bebepac @busywoman @dcbbw @gkittylove99 @harleybeaumont @iaminlovewithtrr @karahalloway @kingliam2019 @lizzybeth1986 @lovingchoices14 @nestledonthaveone @neotericthemis @mom2000aggie @phoenixrising0308 @princess-geek @riseandshinelittleblossom @sazanes @secretaryunpaid @sfb123 @sillydg @tessa-liam @tinkie1973 @txemrn @walkerdrakewalker @yourmajesty09 @choicesficwriterscreations

#kiaratheronappreciationweek #ktaw #ktaw day 4 #choices fic writers creations #choicesflashfics #choices monthly challenge #pixelberry #playchoices #the royal romance #trr fandom #trr #twinkleallnight #choices fanfic #kiara theron

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awakeningking · 1 year ago

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Awakening King | Chapter One: Gyroaxia Reborn

Finally, it was time.　

Near Susukino Station sat a small underground studio. In front of the studio’s heavy metal door, Sakaigawa Miyuki took several deep breaths. His handsome face became tense with nerves.

“I feel like I’m breaking into someone’s house and challenging them to a duel,” Miyuki thought to himself. He wasn’t entirely wrong either. Today, he had come to test his power and talent.

Just thinking about how Gyroaxia, one of Sapporo’s increasingly popular bands, was practising right behind that door was enough to excite him. Especially when he considered that he could very well be joining them as a member today.

His friend had invited him along to one of Gyroaxia’s lives where he promptly became a prisoner to their explosive style of performing music. He wanted to be a part of the vocalist’s melodies, his lyrics and the intense, dominating outlook of the world they formed through their vigorous performances. Fortunately for Miyuki, the band’s line up hadn’t been fixed into place just yet. As of late, they had been going through a number of substitute drummers and when Miyuki heard that they were accepting applicants, he did a mental air pump. It was fate, he thought.

Miyuki had picked up drumming as a means to gain popularity with women. He had formed a band with some of his seniors at university and while the fun had lasted a while, it no longer felt like enough to him. Something was missing, and it was Gyroaxia who had been able to fill that gaping hole in his heart and show him what he needed. With a sound brimming with ambition and passion, it was clear to him that they were aiming for endless heights. Like them, Miyuki wanted to see how far his ability and music could go.

Consequently, he was there that day to see whether or not he had what it took to become a member of Gyroaxia. With the amount of practice he had packed in, there wasn't anything to worry about. Reading himself, he took one final deep breath and like ripping off a bandaid, he quickly grabbed hold of the door knob.

“I’ve got this!”

Miyuki opened the door to his fate.

It seemed that he had entered the room right as they were having their break.

Nayuta stood in front of the microphone, scribbling away at a sheet of music with a knitted brow. He recognised him as the genius vocalist that mesmerised crowds with his overwhelming skill and charisma.

Further back, tuning his guitar was their rhythm guitarist, Reon. Time and time again he would fascinate people with his thrilling ad libs during live shows.

Simultaneously using both a laptop and a mobile phone was the lead guitarist, Kenta. He didn’t show off as much as Reon did, but some would say that his unparalleled accuracy during performances was vital to their songs.

Their bassist, Akebono Ryo, was counting something on his fingers while staring absentmindedly at the ceiling. His deep sounds supported Gyroaxia’s strong performances and his reputation said that he'd practically been born to play the bass.

Miyuki felt a thrill seeing what the members were like off stage. Gyroaxia was really right before his eyes. As he stepped foot into the room, everyone’s gaze turned to Miyuki.

“Who’re you?”

The vocalist, Asahi Nayuta, turned to him with daggers in his eyes. Miyuki tried covering up his nerves with a friendly smile.

“I’m Sakaigawa Miyuki. I hear you guys are looking for a drummer? I’m pretty sure I spoke to your leader, Satozuka-kun, about it.”

“...Hmph.”

Instead of returning the smile, Nayuta slumped down in a chair and crossed his legs. Taking his place, Kenta approached him with a greeting.

“Ah, yes of course. I’m glad you could make it Sakaigawa-kun.”

“Sorry for showing up late. It seems I got the times all mixed up.”

“Don’t worry about it, Sakaigawa-kun. If you’d have gotten here earlier we would’ve been in the middle of practice.”

“You woke me up this morning and told me to be here in five minutes! That’s just crazy,” Reon said with a pout. Nayuta shot a glare at him.

“If you’ve got complaints then you can leave at any time.”

“Something like that’s not enough to make me quit!”

“Then shut up.”

A dangerous atmosphere grew between Reon and Nayuta. Averting his gaze, Reon silently stepped away. Unlike their unity on stage, it seemed that they didn’t get along in ordinary life. Breaking the cold air the two had created, Kenta addressed Miyuki.

“Sakaigawa-kun, you were in a band with some other university students, correct? I’ve seen some of your performances. Your drumming was quite powerful.”

“It’s an honour to hear that coming from the leader of Gyro.”

“Your band...what happened to it?” Reon asked with a puzzled tilt of his head.

“Most of the members were third years. We disbanded so that they could search for jobs. Well, originally we actually formed a band to try and get more popular. I still want that but...more than anything, I want to start being more serious about music,” Miyuki explained with a charming smile.

“You’d definitely become more popular being in this band.”

“Leave.”

The temperature in the studio dropped within an instant.

“Woah woah, Nayuta! You’re making a decision way too soon?!” Like second nature, Reon rebutted Nayuta’s immediate rejection. However, he turned to Miyuki with a displeased look.

“But, if that really is your motive then you honestly should just leave now.”

“I’ve never heard that before. That’s why you want to join Gyro?” Even Ryo, whose voice rarely portrayed much emotion, carried a hint of irritation to it. Regardless, Miyuki refused to give up and lightly waved the drumsticks in his hand.

“I’d never gain popularity if I sucked. I’m quite confident in my skills.”

Reon and Ryo still seemed unconvinced. Nayuta had quickly lost interest and began fiddling with his music sheets. Seeing the member’s attitudes, Kenta shrugged his shoulders.

“I’d still like to see how you play. You had me convinced so you’ll deliver what I expect of you, won’t you?”

“Of course!” Miyuki responded to Kenta’s question with a confident nod.

“What do you think, Nayuta? Our next live will fall through if we don’t have a drummer,” Kenta asked, turning to Nayuta.

“...You get one try. No second chances,” Nayuta said, carelessly throwing the score Miyuki’s way. That was his cue to begin.

After hearing that Gyroaxia was looking for a drummer, he had begun practising with more enthusiasm than ever. He stopped attending parties and cut back on the number of dates he went on.

The song he had been given was one he’d seen them perform live. He’d thought that the drums had been lacking but he’d be able to play the song, even if it was only for his trail. Miyuki thought about the sound he heard that day as he swung his drumsticks.

Finishing off with one powerful final strike, Miyuki lowered his arms, body dripping with sweat. He’d never felt so nervous about a performance before, not even at his old band’s first live show. Regardless of how confident he claimed to be, he had played with every ounce of his power. Now, he just had to see what the other members thought.

A silence so heavy that a pin drop could be heard fell over the studio. No one uttered a single word. As the silence dragged on, Miyuki grew more and more antsy. Had he failed? Just as he was about to reach that conclusion, Reon hesitantly opened his mouth.

“So…”

“Be quiet,” Nayuta immediately cut him off with a glare. Reon looked like he was about to protest but held his tongue. They were apparently the same age, yet it appeared that Nayuta held far more power over Reon. Miyuki unconsciously straightened out his posture as Nayuta turned to him with a calculating gaze.

“...Take this music sheet. Get into place, everyone,” Nayuta angrily hissed .

“At least tell us what you think first! I thought you didn’t like this guy!”

“Shut up. Stop yelling,” Nayuta coldly replied to Reon who was stammering like a puppy. Ryo abruptly plucked a string on his bass and the deep sound momentarily echoed throughout the studio.

“I can see the day when I return to the stars just on the horizon.”

The stars? Taken aback by Ryo’s words, Miyuki made a noise of confusion. Well, Ryo was said to be a genius bassist, so he was bound to be a bit of an oddball.

“You’re always acting like this, aren't you? If you could just be less confusing…”

“Hurry up and get ready.”

“Do you even listen to anything anyone says!?”

Nayuta and Reon were in another quarrel. Or rather, it was more of an one-sided argument on Reon’s half.

“Uhh…”

Miyuki had still yet to hear how his tryout had gone. Amidst his confusion, he tried to get a grasp on the situation when Kenta gave him a pat on the shoulder.

“Looks like you’ve passed. Good luck from here on out,” he said with a pleasant smile.

For a moment, Miyuki didn’t comprehend what he was saying.

It was only when Nayuta stood before his microphone and said, without even looking his way, “Hurry up and get to it. We’ll do the same song as earlier,” when Miyuki was able to understand.

It finally hit him—he’d made it.

“Alright!” Miyuki said, raising his drumsticks above him and punching the air.

Gyroaxia proved to be more demanding than he thought.

“...Drums, do it with more power.”

“G-Got it.”

After two weeks of being in the band, Miyuki had become accustomed to Nayuta solely addressing him as ' drums' . However, in all that time, he was still unable to deliver the sound that Nayuta asked of him.

“No, you went overboard this time! You can’t play without restraint!”

“M-My bad.”

It wasn’t like Miyuki was inexperienced, in fact, he was quite confident in his abilities. He wouldn’t have knocked on Gyroaxia’s door in the first place if he didn’t think he was capable. Yet every time he tried to keep up with Nayuta, he was reminded of how much he still had to learn.

“I think it sounded fine. The stronger the sound is, the bigger of an impression it’ll leave,” Reon interrupted.

“Are you deaf?”

“Excuse me!?”

Another argument began to brew as Nayuta shut down Reon’s opinion. Miyuki intervened between the two, feeling guilty for being the inciting factor.

“Hey, calm down you two. I’ll hold back a little more next time so let’s just give it another go.”

“Fine. Hurry up and start,” Nayuta ordered, grabbing the microphone. With deep concentration, Miyuki began to count.

Exhausted and full of nerves, Miyuki lowered his arms once the song ended and waited to hear Nayuta’s verdict. The vocalist slowly looked over his shoulder with eyes as cold as ice.

“If you’re going to get in the way anymore, then quit.”

“...!”

He’d messed up again. They didn’t have much time left until the day of their live performance. He’d made a show of flaunting his confidence when he first joined so he knew he couldn’t start falling behind now. In the end, he still couldn’t produce the sounds Nayuta demanded from him.

“Satozuka, I have no intention of delivering half-assed music. We might have to cancel the live,” Nayuta said, looking at Kenta.

“Wait!” Reon interrupted. Naturally, he refused to stay silent in the face of such tyranny. “You want to cancel…? That’s so irresponsible! Isn’t Sakaigawa-san good enough for the time being!?

“Don’t make me repeat myself. I won’t settle for just ‘good enough’, ” Nayuta said, throwing a cold glare at Reon. “If you have complaints then get out. It’s not like your guitar is irreplaceable.”

“What…?”

“You’ve got time to be worried about others, do you? My songs aren’t an opportunity for you to mess around with the guitar. Don’t get in my way.”

Reon stared dumbfounded as Nayuta bluntly shut him down. The tense atmosphere gave Miyuki chills. Shit, this was all his fault.

“Alright, let’s leave it here for today” Kenta said with a clap of his hands before Reon could lash out at Nayuta again. “We can see if the venue will allow us to cancel another day. For now, let’s switch over to some individual practice.”

“But Kenta-san, isn’t the live coming up soon? We won’t be able to get everything in sync if we don’t practice together.”

“Reon, you made some mistakes during the second verse. Have it perfected next time.”

“That’s because Nayuta goes too fast…”

“Didn’t you agree to the change in the current arrangement? Is it too hard for you after all?”

“No, I can do it! I’ll have it down perfectly next time!”

Grumbling to himself, Reon put down his guitar and began looking over the marked spots on his music sheet while Ryo and Nayuta started packing up.

“Sorry, I’ll be sure to have everything polished up by next time,” Miyuki remorsefully apologised to Kenta.

“Please do. It’ll be a pain if we have to cancel,” Kenta encouraged him with a light pat on the back. Miyuki could sense the crushing weight beneath his touch.

Nayuta and Kenta didn’t stick around once they’d left the studio.

“Well then, I’ll be accompanying Nayuta to his vocal training.”

“Satozuka, let’s go already. I haven’t got time to waste.”

“Okay okay, we’ll get going. I’ve booked the usual studio.”

Nayuta walked off in a hurry with Kenta following after. They looked like a master and his loyal servant. Reon looked at Miyuki, sensing his unease.

“So, should we head to the train station?”

“Y-Yeah. Let’s do that.”

Their usual practice studio in Susukino was about a twenty minute walk from Sapporo Station. When practice ended, Ryo, Reon and Miyuki would often walk back to the station together. At the station, the three of them would head to the bus terminal and catch a bus home. There was also an underground train that went from Susukino to Sapporo but it was too much trouble to catch the train for just two stops.

Miyuki had always enjoyed exercise but Ryo and Reon both had their own reasons for favouring walking over riding the train to the station. Ryo, for example, liked looking at the sky so he preferred walking above ground rather than under. Occasionally, Nayuta and Kenta would join them but it seemed that today Nayuta was off to another studio with Kenta in tow.

“Let’s go, Ryo-san.”

“Okay,” Ryo looked up from where he was crouching on the ground, playing with a stray cat. Ryo stood up and the three of them silently set off down the narrow alleyway, side by side.

Although they were in Hokkaido, the nights during July could get a little warm but despite that, there seemed to be a cold air between the three. Usually, Miyuki would talk to Reon and he, in turn, would indulge in his small talk but there was none of that today. Nayuta’s words from earlier haunted Miyuki’s mind.

“If you’re going to get in the way anymore, then quit.”

Nayuta was completely serious. He hadn’t known him for long, but he'd learned enough to get a good grasp on Asahi Nayuta's character. No one took music more seriously than Nayuta. He was always the first one at the studio and never sounded anything short of flawless. On top of that, he had no problem doing a piece over and over again if he wasn’t happy with it. Even if everyone else agreed upon a sound, if Nayuta wasn’t satisfied with it, they’d do it again. ‘Compromise’ wasn’t a word that existed in the Emperor of Music’s dictionary. That’s just how Asahi Nayuta was.

Despite joining Gyroaxia full of confidence, Miyuki had yet to receive Nayuta’s approval even once. In truth, he was beginning to question why they even let him in in the first place. Was it just on a whim? No, it couldn’t have been. Nayuta wouldn’t do that. He had certainly approved of his performance when he initially tried to audition. Even if it was just barely, a pass was still a pass. It pained him to think that he was betraying the hope that Nayuta had held for him.

“...Hey, Sakaigawa-san? Do you want to grab something to eat?”

Before he’d realised it, they had arrived in Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade and were surrounded by several signs for various bars. Pointing towards a more suitable restaurant, Reon shyly looked at Miyuki.

“Ah...I’ll pass. I’m not that hungry.”

“...Alright then.”

With his head crowded full of thoughts on how to produce a sound that Nayuta would approve of, his appetite had escaped him.

“Oh, but don't worry about me, Misono-kun, Akebono-kun. You guys can go get something to eat if you want. We can just part ways here,” he quickly followed up when he noticed Reon's embarrassed aversion of his eyes.

“No, I’m honestly not that hungry either… By the way, you don’t have to address me so formally. Just Reon is fine. You’re older than me anyway, Sakaigawa-san.”

“You’re a third year in highschool right? Two years isn’t much of a difference. Besides, you’ve been in the band way longer than I have, which makes you my superior in a way. You can just call me Miyuki too.”

“Then...I’ll call you Miyuki-san.”

“...You can call me Ryo too. I’m younger than you, Miyuki-kun,” Ryo said, jumping in on Miyuki and Reon’s conversation.

“S-Sure. Ryo...you’re a first year in university right?” Miyuki asked, ever confused by Ryo’s peculiar behaviour.

“Yep. I came to Earth when I was nineteen.”

“Earth?”

“I’m a criminal, so I joined Gyroaxia to atone for it.”

“O-Oh…”

Miyuki was only trying to make small talk but he felt like he’d just heard something he shouldn’t have. Reon patted Miyuki on the shoulder as if to say, “Don’t worry about it.”

“Don’t think about it too much, Kenta-san is the only one that gets Ryo-san anyway.”

“Kenken...my friend.”

“O-Okay then.”

Like Nayuta and Ryo, Gyroaxia had many strange members. He was honestly impressed that Kenta managed to act as their leader.

“It feels like he favours Nayuta a bit much, though…”

Kenta never disagreed with Nayuta. While he had pushed discussion of cancelling their live show to ‘a later date’, he ultimately didn’t have any objections. Perhaps if Miyuki couldn’t meet Nayuta’s standards then Kenta really would cancel the live. The pressure felt like enough to drown him.

In Gyroaxia, there was no regard for healthy relationships between the members. Miyuki began to realise that from Nayuta’s continuous angry outbursts during practice. He knew that to some extent, the band was entirely focused on Nayuta. If they couldn’t produce music that passed Nayuta’s judgement then they couldn’t stay in Gyroaxia.

He couldn’t shake the urge to get back to the drums. He knew it was impossible, but he wanted to run right back to the studio and start practising again.

“Hey...don’t worry about it too much.”

“Huh?” Miyuki lifted his head, meeting Reon’s concerned gaze.

“Nayuta’s always like that. I mean, he does go a bit far, doesn’t he? We’ve finally found ourselves a drummer but he’s still being a shithead,” Reon complained while kicking at the ground. It was clear he held a lot of resentment towards Nayuta.

“No no, I’m still a newbie in Gyro so I’m gonna be a problem until I can get in sync with everyone. I’m sorry for causing so many arguments and interruptions during practice...”

“Ah, no actually...we’ve always been like that.”

“Really?”

“It’s because of Nayuta’s massive ego! I practiced really hard on a guitar riff for the hook of that song we’re working on, but then he cut it out! Don’t get me started on what else he’s done…” Reon grumbled, his brow creasing.

“Nayuta is a first magnitude star,” Ryo muttered to himself, walking a little ahead of the other two.

“He’s a first magnitude star…?”

In a way, Ryo’s comment was awfully fitting.

The night sky peered through the glass panels in the roof of the shopping arcade. The bright lights of downtown Sapporo drowned out much of the starry sky but… there was one star that outshone the city lights. It shined as brightly as Nayuta did.

“I get what you mean. I wanted to join Gyro after hearing Nayuta’s music, after all.”

“I thought you joined to become more popular?”

“If I can be part of a performance like that, I’ll be popular regardless.” Miyuki looked up at the sky and reached out towards the lone radiant star. If only he could be like it too. “So I’m going to give it my all to get Nayuta’s approval.”

“Wow, this has to be the first time ever that someone normal has joined Gyro...” Reon clamped a hand over his mouth and trembled with emotion. Reon enthusiastically grabbed Miyuki’s hands, clasping them in his own. “Miyuki-san! Please don’t ever leave Gyro! I’m rooting for you!”

“S-Sure. Thanks”

Through that burst of passion, Miyuki felt like he could see what Reon’s position in Gyroaxia had been until now. He must have gone through a lot.

He was still unsure of how he could improve his abilities to meet Nayuta’s standards…he didn’t have the answer yet, but for now he’d fight tooth and nail to keep his place Gyroaxia.

“I’ll put in everything I’ve got into some extra practice until our next rehearsal. I can’t give up yet.”

“I don’t think any extra effort is necessary,” Ryo said, having appeared beside him without him noticing.

“Huh? What do you mean?”

“All you have to do is listen to Nayuta’s sound.”

Miyuki grew irritated by Ryo’s carefree advice. He always had a cool aura to him and played with an incredible accuracy so he was rarely ever the subject of Nayuta’s anger. While hard to understand, Ryo was undoubtedly a genius, although a different kind than Nayuta was.

Miyuki felt that despite all the sweat, blistered hands and hard work, he still hadn’t done enough to please Nayuta.

“I thought I was listening closely.”

Maybe there was something Ryo knew that Miyuki didn’t.

“Then you’re already doing enough,” Ryo said, seemingly having lost interest and walked off with his eyes glued to the sky. “A constellation can’t be made with only a first magnitude star.”

Miyuki titled his head, growing annoyed by Ryo’s way of speaking in riddles.

“What’re you even trying to say!?” Miyuki pressed, hurrying after him when Ryo tripped over something. In a panic, Miyuki rushed to catch him by the arm.

“Thank you.”

“Ryo-san, I’ve told you how dangerous it is to stare at the sky while you’re walking! You walked into a telephone pole just the other day,” Reon scolded with a heavy sigh. Unbothered, Ryo took one last look at the sky before lowering his gaze down to the ground.

“I see…if you only look at the stars, you’ll miss what’s at your feet,” Ryo said, staring with unreadable eyes. Miyuki wondered if that was also meant to be advice.

“At my feet…? Is that something else I should be taking another look at?” Miyuki asked, eager to know what Ryo meant. However, Ryo slightly tilted his head and pointed towards the train station.

“We’ve arrived at the station…”

Amidst all their talking, they had reached their destination.

“Ah, I’ll be catching the bus. I’ll see you later then! Good luck with everything!”

“Me too… see ya.”

The pair ran off towards the bus terminal. Left on his own, Miyuki stared at his feet.

“There’s nothing there…?”

Kenta may be able to decipher the meaning behind Ryo’s words but he couldn’t disturb him while he was at Nayuta’s vocal training. He couldn’t see an answer yet but if he sat around twiddling his thumbs until the next practice, he’d only disappoint Nayuta even more.

“For now, I should head home and work on my training.”

He couldn’t play on his drum set at home because of how loud it was, so he’d just have to practice using a drum pad. For now, all he could do was grow stronger, little by little. It was how he’d always gotten what he wanted. He’d gained popularity with women, his appearance, muscle and drumming skills all from continuous hard work and it’d be the same with his current situation. He’d do whatever it took to get Nayuta’s approval.

Miyuki walked away with clenched fists, the stars twinkling overhead as if cheering him on.

The blue punching bag swung with a loud bang as Miyuki slammed his toned leg into it. He exhaled deeply and slowly lowered his leg. With his brows furrowed in displeasure, he readied himself once again. This time he’d aim for several lighter, continuous kicks. A rhythm began to form from the sound of the short and repeated bangs.

Kickboxing—like music—was a hobby that Miyuki had picked up for the sake of gaining popularity. Even when he began focusing on band activities, he still went to the gym near the north exit of Sapporo Station three times a week in order to maintain the stamina and physical strength needed to be a drummer. In his wireless headphones, he listened to Nayuta’s singing, matching up his kicks to the punching bag with the rhythm. He was growing impatient.

Gyroaxia had a rehearsal that afternoon. He wondered whether he’d be able to play to Nayuta’s expectations that day…his problem still hadn’t been resolved but he was confident in his skills. He’d even gone over his music sheets so thoroughly that they’d been tattered with his writing. On top of that, he’d booked a studio the day before and spent all day practicing.

But...it still didn’t feel like enough. Nayuta was going to reach far away heights and Miyuki wasn’t sure he’d be able to follow him.

Plagued with anxiety and impatience, Miyuki had come to the gym. He felt awful not indulging in his usual habits and besides, if he missed one day of training, he’d have to do three times the amount of work to make up for it. His muscles and endurance required a lot of work and he couldn’t give up on them. Despite his flirtatious appearance, Miyuki was self-disciplined and had the will-power to put in the hard work. However, he felt that he’d reached a dead end.

“What am I supposed to do...dammit!”

Overcome with frustration, Miyuki violently kicked the punching bag. He felt a dull aching in his leg and Ryo’s perplexing words from the other day echoed in his mind.

“All you have to do is listen to Nayuta’s sound.”

“A constellation can’t be made with only a first magnitude star.”

“If you only look at the stars, you’ll miss what’s at your feet.”

Ryo would often say strange things like, “I can hear the sounds of space,” or, “I want to return to the stars,” but what he said that day felt different somehow. Miyuki wanted to know the truth behind Ryo’s advice so he tried asking Kenta about it, however his reply wasn’t of much help.

“...I see. I know what Ryo was trying to say, however, I wouldn’t want anyone that can’t understand that to be a member of Gyroaxia.”

“Huh...?”

“Find the answer before our next practice session. It’ll be too much trouble if we have to cancel the live. Nayuta isn’t listening to my suggestions.”

That was the jist of what he’d been told.

“That bastard...he thinks I’m just a tool that can be replaced whenever he sees fit,” Miyuki thought to himself.

To be truthful, Miyuki wasn’t the only one the sentiment extended to. In fact, he’d say it was likely that Kenta saw everyone but Nayuta that way. It was aggravating. Miyuki felt himself flaring up with anger.

“I won’t be thrown away like all their other drummers!” Miyuki thought, violently swinging his leg in time with Nayuta’s shouts.

“Ah, shit…!”

With all his focus honed on kicking his leg, he'd neglected his pivot foot. He lost his balance, almost falling over, but managed to regain his footing. It was against Miyuki’s aesthetic values to show himself in such an unsightly manner.

“No matter how much I’ve been thinking about it, now’s not the time. I know this stuff like the back of my hand, right?”

The pivot foot was essential during a kick. Without firm footing, a kick would have no power. You’d make a fool of yourself if you lost your balance and risked a tumble to the ground like Miyuki just had. In a band, the pivot foot could be compared to the rhythm unit, like the bass and drums. With a sturdy foundation, you could achieve incredible feats and aim for greater heights.

“...Oh.”

He felt everything click into place. He’d been so intent on playing to gain Nayuta’s recognition that he’d made a huge mistake.

“All you have to do is listen to Nayuta’s sound.”

The true meaning behind Ryo’s words seeped into his heart. Nayuta didn’t need a sound that would overcome him, he needed one that would support him. His duty was to uplift a genius like Nayuta so that he could soar as high as possible.

The moment he realised that, he couldn’t stay put. Right away, he contacted a member from his old university band.

“Hey, it’s me. Sorry about this, but do you think you could lend me your studio? I’m itching to go drum.”

After ending the call, he recklessly wiped off his sweat. With one last flowing, clean, roundhouse kick to the punching bag, Miykui left the gym.

“...Don’t tell me what to do.”

“I’m just saying you could make it a little easier to understand!”

“It’s your fault if you don’t get it. Are you really that stupid?”

“You littleー This is what I’m talking about…!”

Nayuta and Reon were already arguing when Miyuki arrived at the studio.

“Sorry for being late.” Reon shook his head at Miyuki’s apology.

“You're not late. Nayuta just always comes early.”

From the looks of their light sheen of sweat, it seemed that they had already begun practising. Kenta shrugged his shoulders as he tuned his guitar.

“Well, the studios here are quite reasonable with allowing us additional use of their space.”

“Kenta-san, you pamper Nayuta way too much!”

“It’s not that I’m pampering him, I’m only ensuring that he can deliver the best performance possible.”

It hadn’t been long since Miyuki joined Gyroaxia, however he’d witnessed this kind of exchange more than enough times. As always, if it was for Nayuta’s sake, nothing was too much trouble for Kenta. To Miyuki’s knowledge, he’d even negotiated with several studios, including the one they were currently using, so that Nayuta was free to use them whenever he felt like practising. On the outside, he came across as a good guy who’d go to the effort of negotiating with live houses for them, butー

“More importantly, Reon, haven’t I reminded you plenty of times that we’ve cut that guitar riff out? Instead of talking back, do as you've been told,” Kenta said to Reon, indifferent and cold.

While always addressing people in a composed manner, there was something about the way he treated all the members save Nayuta that pissed Miyuki off. He didn’t view them as anything but replaceable tools. All that he was concerned with was having people to follow Nayuta.

“But…”

“It’s unbearable to listen to. Quit it,” Nayuta interrupted, cutting Reon off before he could argue any further.

‘Huh…? If that’s the issue, then I’ll just work on it until it sounds better!”

“That’s not the problem.”

“You’re the only one who doesn’t like it!! The crowd from our last show loved it!”

“...Then do it alone. It has no place in my music.”

“Why don’t we just give it one more try and see how it sounds? I’d like to hear it too,” Miyuki intervened, never one to simply stand by.

“No, Nayuta made his decision so there will be no further discussion. Cut it out, Reon. We’re wasting valuable practice time,” Kenta retorted before Nayuta had the chance to.

“Come on now, don’t be like that. We’re all in this band together. Performing a live is a group effort amongst all the members, so…”

“...Shut up,” Nayuta interrupted Miyuki. “If you’re going to waste any more of my time with useless things then I’m leaving.”

Reon reluctantly stepped down, knowing he was on the verge of losing his patience. “...Fine. Sorry, Miyuki-san. Let’s start rehearsal.”

“I’m always ready to go,” Ryo said, raising his hand from where he was scribbling on a music sheet. Miyuki wanted to check in with Reon but ultimately decided that any further conversation would have been futile. Besidesー

“More importantly, don’t you have something to say? The answer, did you find it?” Kenta asked, cutting straight to what Miyuki had been worried about. “Do your best today. It’ll pose a problem if we don’t begin arranging ticket sales soon. Whether it be finding a substitute drummer or even cancelling the show, we have a lot of work to do.”

Miyuki felt the pressure piling onto him with every second that Kenta’s heartless gaze sat on him. That feeling of being viewed as nothing but a tool returned. He could sense the calculation behind those eyes, evaluating whether or not he was useful.

“I won’t waste anymore of your time.”

As irritated as he was, Miyuki didn’t leave the house that day without any hope for success.

“Let’s get to it. We don’t have enough time as is,” Nayuta ordered, pointing his chin towards the drum set with a scowl.

“Understood.”

“...Will you be alright?” Reon whispered to him with a worried look.

“Don’t worry, I’ll be getting a gold star today,” Miyuki replied with a reassuring nod. Truthfully, he wasn’t one hundred percent sure he’d pass. What if the answer he had come to was wrong…? His hands sweated with nerves at the thought.

Besides...he couldn’t give this position up to anyone else. He didn’t want to give it up. There was nowhere else that he could watch Nayuta’s back and uplift his music in such a way.

“Hurry up,” Nayuta snapped, quickly growing impatient. There could be a thousand meanings behind the look Kenta gave Miyuki. It irritated him being stared at with such a condescending expression.

“Just you watch. I’ll knock that deadpan look off your face!”

With a deep breath, Miyuki started counting and the song that would determine his fate began.

Reon caught on as soon as he started to play—there was something different about Miyuki��s drumming. Not being a drummer himself, it was difficult for Reon to put his finger on how he’d managed to completely alter his sound.

But…it was easier to play alongside, more so than Miyuki’s previous self—or any of Gyroaxia’s drummers—ever had been. Bouncing off of his rhythm felt incredible. Rather than harshly dragging them along, it felt like he had laid out a firm road for them to run endlessly upon…with this play-style, no matter what arrangement they settled on, he knew Miyuki would be just fine.

The strength of Miyuki’s drums remained prominent and their powerful sound remained alive and healthy, but somewhere in that thundering, something had changed.

It was full of intensity and vigour…but mingling within was a gentle sound that provided an unbreakable support for both the ferocity and delicateness of Nayuta’s voice.

That’s when Reon heard it. Swept away in the rhythm, Nayuta’s voice flooded the room like it never had before.

As soon as the song came to a close, Miyuki cast his head towards the ceiling and was overcome with a wave of drowsiness. After releasing his stress, even his lower body that he had always been so attentive towards formed a warm, dull pain. He felt a throbbing heat in his calves and the top of his thighs.

It wasn’t the arms that would give the audience a performance that was easy to follow, but the legs. He had changed the way he stepped on the bass drum to better comply with Nayuta’s voice. He wondered if Nayuta had noticed…or if that sound had met his expectations.

Body tense with nerves, he awaited Nayuta’s verdict. Without ever looking back at Miyuki, Nayuta slightly raised his hand.

“We’re not wasting anymore time. Do it again.”

Again.

He hadn’t been terminated. Miyuki’s heart beat faster at what he considered high praise from Nayuta. Finally, he had gotten his approval. As he trembled with overwhelming emotion, Nayuta turned around and shot a glare at Miyuki.

“Didn’t you hear me? We don’t have time to waste. We’ll run through that last one three more times and then start work on the other songs.”

In the euphoric aftermath of earning Nayuta’s approval, the merciless decree made his cheeks twitch. He had just played with everything he had. Without having amassed much practice with his new play-style, perfecting it was still a nerve wrecking process. While he was confident in his physical strength, that wasn’t the part of him that consumed so much of his energy. If he was being honest with himself, he could really do with a break, but—

“Show us that you don't just run on luck,” Kenta challenged, killing off any complaints he had.

“Yeah, I’ll show you why Gyroaxia’s only drummer is me,” he flung back and pushed up his sleeves. Looking at Miyuki, a triumphant smile broke out across Kenta’s face.

“I’m sure you will. Now then, why don’t we get all the songs on the setlist finished off by the end of the day, hm?”

…He’d make that bastard cry someday.

As his temples twitched with fury towards Kenta, Miyuki raised his drumsticks.

Finally, the day of their live show arrived.

In their green room, Miyuki looked over their set list for the day while the other members of the band killed time in their preferred ways before the performance started.

Nayuta had his eyes closed and listened to music with his earphones, Reon was busy perfecting the tuning on his guitar, while Ryo looked at a picture book on astronomy… As for Kenta, he was occupied elsewhere, meeting with the staff of the live house. From the sounds of it, they were doing amazingly on ticket sales and could expect a full house.

Miyuki’s thoughts drifted to the practice he had dedicated himself to everyday. With a big stretch, Miyuki let out an emotional sigh at how far he had come. Once Nayuta had approved of Miyuki’s performance, they had undergone days of hellish rehearsals. Even though Nayuta hadn’t called for the live to be cancelled, the tensions remained tight and even the smallest of mistakes would lead to shouts of anger and a complete restart.

He’d say that he and Reon received an equal share of grating critiques but in Reon’s case, he wouldn’t take the criticisms without lashing back at Nayuta, often leading to the two of them arguing amongst themselves. Kenta was also the subject of Nayuta’s anger a fair amount, but he would only ever obediently follow his orders, never once talking back. Whenever Reon and Nayuta got into fights about music, to a fault, Kenta would always take Nayuta’s side. Miyuki would often take it upon himself to intervene and comfort the sulking Reon. Although he could understand in some respects why Kenta held Nayuta in such superior regard, it still gave him a weird feeling.

Nayuta had an undeniably sharp sense for sound but his relentlessness when pointing that out could hurt even someone as mentally strong as Miyuki. The ever tranquil Ryo potentially wasn’t bothered by any of it…but in Reon’s case, it seemed that he had been hampered with a great deal of gloom.

“It’s not balanced at all…”

Kenta had a pleasant facade that he used with people outside of the band—such as studio or livehouse staff—and he didn’t think it was unreasonable to wish he’d show even a little of that to his fellow bandmates, or to wish he’d at least check in with the people that had been slashed apart by Nayuta’s blade.

Nayuta was a sword that had been sharpened beyond comparison, and that was just a part of his charm. But that sword had to be sheathed by someone, a feat that Kenta wasn’t capable of. Instead, he was a whetstone whose only goal was to sharpen Nayuta’s blade even further.

“There’s nothing I can do, I just have to keep trying my best.”

If he could just make it through this live show, he’d officially be able to call himself Gyroaxia’s drummer. What followed after would depend on his own efforts but he had no intentions of handing over the position to anyone else.

He liked Nayuta. Despite his arrogance, sharp tongue and curtness, his musical talent made for ample compensation. No matter his personality, Nayuta was still young. Along his journey to becoming a pro, the people he’d meet could lead him to change. They were sure to hit some bumps along the way but Miyuki would be there to patch things up. Kenta…wasn’t very reliable, in that aspect.

“Well, that’s my job as an adult, isn’t it?"

Miyuki’s train of thought was suddenly cut off and he turned his head with a look of suspicion. Ryo was braiding Miyuki’s long hair.

“...Hey, what do you think you’re doing?”

“I call it the Bellatrix Parade. I did a good job, I think.”

A look in the mirror revealed that his hair had been done up in some kind of strange hairstyle, with twin tails and a generous amount of colourful clips.

“You little~!! Why’re you doing this when we’re about to go on stage!? Are you serious!?”

He rushed to undo it all but the braided portions had already formed into subtle waves.

“Wax, I need wax…”

“...But all my hard work.”

“Shut up! I can’t go out there with hair like that!”

Miyuki ignored the way Ryo’s shoulders sagged with a look of disappointment and continued looking for his hair wax. Although he’d been thinking about taking over for Kenta and supporting the other members himself…Ryo might be a lost cause. He never had a clue what that man was thinking.

Reon held out a towel and hairdryer to Miyuki.

“Miyuki-san, wouldn’t it be faster to wet your hair a little and then dry it?”

“Yeah, you’re right. I’ll go with that.”

Miyuki took the items from Reon’s hands but the moment he stood up to rush to the bathroom—

Suddenly, the door to the green room was violently flung open.

For a moment, he thought that Kenta had come back—but he was wrong.

“Nayuta…”

Even after being addressed, Nayuta made no move to raise his head. Just as Miyuki was about to do something, thinking there must have been a mistake, Reon uttered a name.

“Shinya-san…”

The man standing before him was one Miyuki didn’t recognise. He seemed to be around the same age as him and bore a plain face.

“You know this guy?”

Reon met Miyuki’s question with an affirmative nod.

“He was one of the first members of Gyroaxia…or I mean, we used to be in an old band together, but he dropped out as soon as we became Gyro…”

From Reon’s vague explanation, he gathered that he had been driven out in usual Nayuta fashion. Reon casually put himself between Shinya and Nayuta.

“S-Shinya-san, did you come to watch our show? It’ll be starting soon so please go wait in your seat. Hey, Nayuta, he was nice enough to come see us so the least you could do is say hello!”

Nayuta cracked open his eyes and without even removing his earphones, he addressed him with a hellishly cold voice.

“...You’re being a pest. Leave.”

“Oi…”

Reon’s expression changed, but it paled in comparison to the way Shinya’s mood shifted. He looked at Nayuta with a look of absolute despair.

“...Why? Even though I chose you. Even after I dropped out, this whole time I’ve been practising all so that I could earn your approval. I sent you all those clips of me playing, right? Why won’t you even reply to me!?”

“...”

“How many drummers have you gone through? After this, you’re just gonna kick out the one you have now too anyway, right? So just put me back in again! I’ll do exactly as you say this time! I’ll become a drummer worthy of you, Nayuta!”

Miyuki’s chest ached seeing Shinya desperately ramble on. Shinya had the hands of a drummer—of a man that had undergone endless practice. Like Miyuki, he had poured out all of his efforts for Nayuta’s sake.

Shinya was a reflection of a person Miyuki could have been. Just another discarded tool.

But still, he had refused to give up.

Nayuta could have at least offered him a response. Of course, Miyuki had no intentions of stepping down as their drummer, but just a word or two couldn’t hurt. At the very least, he could mention those videos he sent—

“Don’t make me repeat myself…get out.”

“But…I’ve gotten better…”

“Don’t care. Out.”

It was hopeless. Shinya’s face was as white as paper and until the end, Nayuta never even spared him a glance.

“I’ve been through so much, all for you…!”

Shinya tightly clenched his fists.

“NAYUTAAAAAAA!!” he yelled, and raised his fist. Without a second thought, Miyuki rushed to put himself between Nayuta and Shinya.

“I’m not going to let you do that!”

Before his fist could make impact with Nayuta, Miyuki kicked his long leg towards Shinya. He gasped as the precise kick headed towards him and within an instant his body had frozen solid. Miyuki’s foot had stopped right before his eyes.

“Ah…”

Miyuki started at Shinya, who was scared stiff.

“Stop it. Hitting him won’t change anything. Don’t hurt your precious fingers like that.”

Miyuki’s words made Shinya’s face contort, as if he was about to burst into tears.

“Why are you saying this��? You stole my place from me…so why…”

Shinya slumped to his knees. It seemed that someone had called for help, as the clamorous sound of staff rushing down the hallway headed towards them.

“Wonderful work.”

Miyuki shot a glare at Kenta’s unconcerned face as he clapped him on the shoulder. After receiving a message from Ryo, Kenta and the live house staff had quickly made their way to the scene. The staff had restrained both of Shinya’s arms and with no will left to resist, he rose to his feet without objection. With eyes filled with a lingering remorse, he turned to Nayuta.

“Nayuta, I’m sorry…but…if I could play with you…just one more time…”

Fed up, Reon grabbed Nayuta’s shoulder and pulled out his earphones.

“Nayuta! Fucking say something! He used to be our comrade, dammit!”

With a look of irritation, Nayuta shook off Reon’s hand and snatched back his earphones, not even attempting to hide his awful mood.

“...Don’t tell me what to do. You’re ruining my focus.”

“Nayuta, you prick…”

Even Miyuki, who had only just met Shinya, couldn’t stand to watch from the sidelines and jumped in to intervene.

“Can’t you just quickly say something to him…?” he wanted to say but was stopped by Kenta before he had the chance.

“Let the grudge go. Nayuta doesn’t need to say anything to you.”

Miyuki was outraged as he watched Kenta nod at the staff as if to signal for them to take Shinya away.

“This isn't right! I know Nayuta’s tough to convince but can’t you just—”

“...No, it’s fine,” Shinya himself interrupted, “I couldn’t become what Nayuta deserves. I’m sorry for causing a scene right before you go on stage.”

Parting with those final words, the staff took Shinya away. Reon accompanied him, perhaps unable to leave things as they were. A heavy atmosphere dominated the room as Miyuki turned to question Kenta, hit abruptly with an unpleasant hunch.

“Don’t tell me you had something to do with those videos he was sending Nayuta…”

“I disposed of them. They weren’t anything worth troubling Nayuta’s ears with.”

With such a cruel response, the blood rushed to Miyuki’s head.

He understood now. Miyuki and the other band members weren’t the only ones that Kenta viewed as tools, but Nayuta too. He didn’t see Nayuta as a human—all he saw was his music.

He would never mediate between the members of the band. It was Nayuta alone whom he worshipped, and Nayuta alone who he obeyed. Nothing else mattered as long as Kenta had Nayuta’s voice.

“I can’t stand that part of you…!”

Without thinking, Miyuki grabbed Kenta by the collar of his shirt. Kenta remained perfectly composed and readjusted his glasses.

“It’s time to go on stage. The audience is waiting for us,” he replied plainly. He was right. There was nothing in that moment that Miyuki could have said to change Kenta.

“...Just you wait. I’m not going to let you just do as you please.”

“As long as it doesn’t hinder Nayuta in any way, you’re welcome to act freely. All I want is for Nayuta to create only the most supreme music.”

Miyuki released his hold with a sour look. At that moment, Reon returned with some members of the staff in tow.

“Are you ready?” one of the staff asked with concern.

“Yes. We’ll head out now,” Kenta replied. His gaze shifted to land on Nayuta. “Nayuta, there’s no problems, right?”

Nayuta raised an eyebrow and slowly rose to his feet.

“Who do you think you’re talking to? Obviously there’s no problems.”

Throwing on his jacket, Nayuta made his way over to the door.

“This is my moment now.”

He walked away with arrogance in his stride, as if he hadn’t nearly been hit just minutes before. It was the presence of a king.

Miyuki’s worries began to set in once he stepped foot on stage. Although it wasn’t a large venue, there wasn’t a single seat that hadn’t been filled. The only thing reflected in his eyes was Nayuta’s back as he faced their audience.

From what he could tell, the situation that suddenly broke out earlier hadn’t affected him at all. Nonetheless, Nayuta was still only seventeen years old so it wouldn’t have been surprising if he had been even a little taken aback. It was possible he was only putting up a front of strength but regardless, he was furious with Kenta for sending him on stage without checking in on him first. What was up with his attitude of, “It’s Nayuta, he’ll be fine,” ?

He would make Kenta cry one day. He would absolutely make him cry.

As his rage towards Kenta burned inside him, Nayuta quickly glanced in Miyuki’s direction. With that signal to begin, Miyuki’s readiness settled in. They were already on stage, he didn’t have time to be caught up in his anxieties.

Miyuki raised his drumsticks and began to count. The moment the first lyrics left Nayuta’s mouth, Miyuki’s worries vanished.

“Damn…I actually made it this far!”

During their rehearsals, he thought he had a good understanding of Nayuta’s excellence but it was clear to him now that when Nayuta took the stage, he became something entirely different. The strength, intensity and element of delicacy that the core of his voice held teemed with passion. That passion infected the audience and lit up the small live house like a smothering fire. The wild enthusiasm intensified with each passing song, dragging in not only the audience, but the other members of the band too.

Higher and higher. Further and further.

With Nayuta beside them, accompanied by his voice, there was nowhere they couldn’t go.

Caught up in the frenzy, Miyuki frantically rushed to regulate himself, concerned that his own sound was demanding too much attention. He couldn’t allow himself to lose control. He knew his job was to support Nayuta’s sound but the fire in his body refused to simmer down.

Nayuta had a voice that turned people mad. That sound, that voice, it fed him an illusion that even he could grow wings. Even if the Sun turned him to ash, he wouldn’t stop soaring across the skies with Nayuta.

Gyroaxia existed for Nayuta. He thought he understood that sentiment, but his naivety became all too clear in that moment. He realised why no matter how many times Reon had been beaten down, he had never once quit—and why Kenta prioritised Nayuta to such an extreme extent.

He knew that all kinds of people had been wounded by Nayuta’s blade. Shinya certainly wasn’t the only one with a grudge against Nayuta.

But it was hopeless. There was nothing that could be done. Once you heard that voice, you had no choice but to worship the vocalist Asahi Nayuta.

Nayuta’s songs couldn’t be sung by anyone but him. No one but Nayuta could make that kind of sound. To the lone God of Singing, Miyuki, Reon and Kenta were entirely mundane. As for Ryo, he might be a slightly different case.

“Playing music alongside this voice is something I’ll never be able to give up.”

Dammit, his body was already moving on its own. He couldn’t stifle the euphoria of being able to perform alongside Nayuta’s voice. After discovering this exhilaration and incredible sensation, he lost all interest in playing for any band that wasn’t Gyroaxia—he felt that more strongly than ever now. He vowed that he wouldn’t give this spot up to anyone else. He couldn't give it up.

Reon strummed his guitar like he had been overwhelmed with emotion. Ryo’s base resonated pleasantly in the core. As much as he hated to admit it, Kenta’s guitar was…flawless.

The audience’s frenzy climbed to its apex. The band’s instruments melted perfectly together with Nayuta’s voice to give life to an unparalleled sound. Miyuki was entirely drunk on the sensation.

“Shinya…I’m sorry. No matter how hard you try, the position of Gyroaxia’s drummer belongs to me.”

He wouldn’t give it up to Shinya, or to anyone else.

“It’s me…Gyroaxia’s drummer is me!”

To make his declaration known, Miyuki hit his drums with strikes full of power.

“I’m totally beat…”

After their live show came to a close, Miyuki had found a place to lie down in their green room when a towel suddenly landed on his face.

“...Huh?”

Miyuki raised his head to find Nayuta looking back at him. He must have been the one who threw the towel at him then. Miyuki dried off his sweat, albeit puzzled by the strange gesture. The towel was a piece of merchandise Gyroaxia was selling in commemoration of their live, but it was surprisingly soft and absorbent.

“...Play a little better next time,” Nayuta said as he wiped off his own sweat and averted his gaze, “I don’t care what happens before a live show. I won’t tolerate a messy performance.”

Nayuta’s unforgiving comment caused Reon to bite back immediately.

“This stuff only happens because you go around making enemies!”

“...Don’t care”

As Reon loudly yelled his complaints at Nayuta, Miyuki felt slightly moved. It felt like…Nayuta throwing a towel at him was his own way of expressing his concern…but that could just be his imagination. Besides, that ‘next time’ Nayuta had mentioned meant that he’d been approved of as Gyroaxia’s drummer. He hoped that was the case.

He knew that the character Nayuta had developed over the past seventeen years wouldn’t change overnight…but a force like Kenta that only further enabled that personality was out of the question.

Miyuki raised the towel in celebration and finally let out a laugh.

“Next time, I’ll show you a flawless performance.”

“Good.”

“But I’ve gotta say, I’m kinda worried about what happened today. Please try not to get on anyone else's bad side from now on. You’re our precious vocalist, and all,” Miyuki warned nonetheless. By no means did he expect an immediate change but every marathon begins with just a single step.

“Even if Nayuta is a king, he’ll still face danger. I’ll support him in those areas too, not just in music.”

After all, Kenta certainly wouldn’t.

In exchange for the towel, Miyuki threw a water bottle Nayuta’s way. A suspicious look flashed across Nayuta’s face before he gave in and gulped it all down in a single go.

Kenta smiled faintly watching Nayuta drink the water that Miyuki had given him. It seemed that their drums had finally been stabilised. Now, they would be able to progress.

Gyroaxia’s rule had only just begun.

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