#putting tags here so they'll be easy to get to

[ellieputellas]

round&round | a. putellas x reader

Your PR team thought that joining Love Island could be an easy way to grow your popularity as a singer but in reality, nothing about it turned out to be easy: the constant drama, the fighting, and of course, living in the villa with Alexia Putellas, who wasn’t going to quit until she had you. ♡ inspired by @lovelettersfromluna's love island fic

tags/contains: islander!Alexia, drama & some comedy, reality TV, love triangle, bombshell!Patri, all-sapphic love island, around 13k+ words

a/n: everything in orange is the Love Island narrator (reference if u're not familiar) and everything indented is commentary or cut scenes

masterlist ♡ the alexia playlist series

⋆˙⟡♡ It's Love Island: Girl's Getaway — the first ever Love Island where it's all 100% girls and no dudes. Here, the girls are hot and the drama? Even hotter. This season, absolutely no one is gonna play it straight. 

Get it? Cause they’re gay.

⋆˙⟡♡ You're an up-and-coming singer. While you found success as a songwriter for several big popstars, writing hit love songs for the likes of Ariana Grande and Dua Lipa, you're yet to make it as a singer.

Why? Cause you've never really been in love. How could you sing about love if you've never experienced it? It was much easier to write a song for someone else: slipping into someone else’s story, their heartbreak, their fairytale. But when it comes to putting your own feelings into a melody... it never felt quite right.

So, your PR team decides that the perfect way for you to get that experience – just enough exposure to get you more comfortable singing about love – and well, also to get more followers was to join Love Island. (Your introduction song was Silk Chiffon – Muna, a song that you actually co-wrote.)

⋆˙⟡♡ Your introduction video was cute, kinda wholesome compared to everyone else's introductions. And while everyone else came into the villa with hot, intense energies, you brought something softer. Your energy was disarmingly gentle and genuine.

And that somehow worked in your favor. All the girls seemed drawn to your authentic energy. On the other hand, you felt intimidated. Everyone was hot, tall, and model-like. You wondered how you could possibly get coupled up if everyone else looked straight out of a Victoria's Secret catalogue. 

⋆˙⟡♡ Ahh, our first set of girls are standing tall and looking confident... or secretly regretting their shoe choices. I can't tell. 

They know the drill for the first coupling: if the new girl is your type, step forward.That new girl can now choose among all the girls who stepped forward or if they wanna be naughty, they can steal someone else's couple.

⋆˙⟡♡ You partnered up with the first girl – another musician from England. Her name was Cassie; she had beautiful, soft features that contrasted her tattooed body. She was hot, definitely. Maybe even someone you'd go for outside the villa. But still, something held you back. You weren’t completely sold.

Even so, you stepped forward almost right away.

You couldn’t really explain it. Maybe it was the rush of adrenaline. Maybe it was the fear of being left behind and stuck with someone who wasn’t your type at all. It probably came from both. Either way, your reaction was quick, and that anxious quickness was mistaken for certainty.

Cassie beamed as she walked over to stand beside you. She whispered that she’d felt something the moment she saw you. That she was glad you’d chosen her.

You smiled, but something about it didn’t sit right. You felt stupid, like you'd accidentally promised something you couldn’t follow through on. You didn’t mean to lead her on. You were just trying to survive the moment.

⋆˙⟡♡ That's a pair that looks like they'll make beautiful love songs together... or if things go south, we’re looking at enough breakup songs to rival Taylor Swift’s career. A win for me and my sing-along shower playlist either way!

⋆˙⟡♡ You didn’t fully regret partnering with Cassie as the other girls walked in. Sure, you were a bit hasty with your decision but she definitely was the best choice for you. She had this gentle, genuine energy about her, and she was undeniably attractive with her indie rockstar vibe. She definitely seemed more your type compared to the others.

You were almost sure that you made the right choice… until Alexia walked in. 

(Alexia’s entrance song was Beso – Rosalia.)

⋆˙⟡♡ We try not to rank our Islanders but we certainly did this time cause we saved the best for last! 

It's boots off, bikini on for this beautiful babe with the double Ballon d'Ors. Whew, that's too many Bs!  And what comes before B? A — as in A-lexia! Let's see if our Catalan Captain can score girls as easily as she can score goals.

⋆˙⟡♡ It wasn’t arrogant or boastful, but there was something about her that made it clear she was sure of herself. Perhaps it was the way she walked and carried herself. It just exuded confidence. 

A small smile played at the corners of her lips as she took in the room, her eyes scanning each girl... until they landed on you.

Her gaze felt intense, almost intimidating. It felt like they were studying you. You bit your lip, unable to look away, as her smirk grew, her eyes still locked on yours.

⋆˙⟡♡ You didn't step forward for Alexia. 

Maybe it was because Cassie was standing beside you, her presence grounding you, making you hesitate. Or maybe it was the thought of competing with everyone else who had already stepped forward for Alexia. Either way, something held you back.

You found Alexia insanely attractive and interesting but something was stopping you from stepping forward. 

Alexia raised an eyebrow at you, but said nothing. Instead, she shifted her focus, pairing up with Savannah, the Instagram influencer who was the only one left uncoupled. 

⋆˙⟡♡ Alexia and Savannah — that seems like the perfect power couple to me. She won the World Cup, the Ballon d'Or and every other trophy a footballer could dream of winning. And Savannah... well, she endorses tummy detox tea on Instagram! 

⋆˙⟡♡ After the initial coupling, it was clear that Cassie was already falling hard for you. She couldn’t stop talking about how drawn she was to you, how you were exactly the kind of person she had hoped to meet here. You tried to show the same enthusiasm, to return her feelings, but something held you back. You couldn’t go all-in, not when you could feel Alexia’s eyes on you and Cassie all the time. 

Even when Savannah was practically throwing herself at Alexia, lying across her lap, playing with her hair in the most flirtatious way, Alexia’s gaze still seemed to find its way back to you. It was unsettling and intimidating, and no matter how much you tried to focus on Cassie, it was becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.

As much as you wanted to confront Alexia, to figure out why she seemed so fixated on you and Cassie, you were too shy and non-confrontational. Besides, you didn’t have enough to go on, no reason to bring it up. It felt like you were reading too much into something that could have been nothing at all.

⋆˙⟡♡ You also hit it off instantly with Jade, a part-time dog sitter and part-time voice actor. She was effortlessly cool and laid-back, and she reminded you a lot of your best friend outside of the villa. When Cassie was urged by the producers to chat with the others, Jade found her way over to your sofa lounge.

"So, you guys already seem like the couple to last," she said casually, adjusting the strap of her red bikini as she stretched out beside you. "I'm jealous cause I don’t think April and I have that connection yet.”

You nodded sheepishly, feeling a bit awkward, especially knowing just how unsure you were of your feelings for Cassie. "Yeah… but it’s really only been a day.”

Jade immediately noticed something off, hearing the tension in your voice. "Hey, you good?"

You bit your lip and looked around before leaning closer to the brunette. "What do you think that girl Alexia's deal is?" You asked quietly.

"Alexia? The football player?" Jade looked confused. "Why?"

"I don't know.” You shrugged, trying to act casual even if it has been all you’ve been thinking about for the past hour.  "She seemed to be looking at me and Cassie a lot and it just... it just felt odd, y'know?"

Jade scanned the room quickly, her eyes narrowing as she looked for Alexia. When she didn’t spot her, she shrugged, seeming to consider your words. "Maybe she’s jealous? Her and Savannah? They don’t make sense together, while you and Cassie... well, you two are already tough contenders."

You hummed, unsure of what to make of Jade’s observation. "You really think so?"

"Could be," Jade replied, giving a little shrug. "I mean, she’s pretty intense, and you two... well, you're kinda vibing. It's hard not to notice. A lot of people are not here for love but for the game, and well, she might be one of those people. Do you have any other reason to think so? You think she’s into you or Cassie?”

Jade looked more intrigued, a certain sparkle in her eyes. You paused. You were pretty certain that Alexia’s eyes always found yours but then again, you might have been reading too much into it. She might have actually been into Cassie. “I don’t think I’d be her type,” you responded. “You think Cassie is?”

Jade shook her head. “Nah, I just seriously think she’s jealous of your bond.” She said, settling beside you. “Just focus on Cassie right now. Alexia’ll have to deal with Savannah until she finds someone more interesting.”

⋆˙⟡♡ It had only been less than a day but Cassie was incredibly romantic already: picking flowers from the garden to put in your hair, massaging sunscreen on your back, even putting food on your plate for dinner. You two practically just mer each other a day ago but the way she acted was akin to someone who's been in a relationship for months.

You knew that things move fast in Love Island; you watched several seasons across most the franchises in preparation... but even that couldn't prepare you for Cassie. She seemed like those U-Haul Lesbian stereotypes you always heard about. 

But you figured that if Cassie was this into it, she must be seeing a potential with your coupling. So, you tried to play along, holding her hand and even cuddling up to her whenever you had the chance but you couldn't completely focus on her.

Not when Alexia was constantly staring at you two.

⋆˙⟡♡ You couldn't sleep well your first night in. Mostly because Cassie was smothering you. You never were a fan of cuddling and Cassie was an absolute koala bear in bed, clinging on to you like you were the last eucalyptus tree. 

By the time the first rays of light peeked through the villa, you were wide awake, feeling the sleepiness still hanging over you. You blinked your eyes a few times, trying to shake it off, and gently slipped out from under the covers so you wouldn’t wake Cassie.

You threw on a patterned bikini, smoothed on a bit of makeup to freshen up, and slipped out for a quiet early morning swim

⋆˙⟡♡ You weren’t expecting anyone to be up yet. The lights usually came on at 9 am so everyone was still fast asleep, tucked in sheets or cuddled up with their partner. 

The villa was quiet, the air still cool, the sky just beginning to turn from gray to gold. It felt serene; the perfect time to get an early morning swim session in without having to socialize with anyone else. If you could completely forget about the camera and crew lingering around, it would be an introvert’s dream.

But there she was. Alexia Putellas.

Alone outside, mid-squat with dumbbells on both of her hands, her body steady and focused. She was wearing a black sports bra and matching shorts, her hair scraped back into a ponytail, the light catching on the fine sheen of sweat across her chest and shoulders. 

You subconsciously slowed down your walking. Alexia immediately noticed you.  A lazy smile sprawled on her face as she caught sight of you, her eyes scanning your body. 

“Good morning, guapa." She greeted. "Didn't sleep well?"

You shook your head. "Just an early riser," you lied, not wanting to show signs of incompatibility with Cassie. "You?"

“Athlete’s schedule… kinda just used to waking up this early.” She reached for her water bottle, took a sip, then glanced toward you again. “Wanna join me?”

You gave a soft laugh and shook your head. “I’m more of a pilates and morning swim girl. I don’t really do weights.”

“Pity,” she said, pausing. “Strong legs can help when you’re running from things.”

You blinked, trying to process what she was implying. You narrowed your eyes. “What are you trying to say?"

Alexia chuckled under her breath and picked up the weights again. “Nothing, just fitness advice.”

You turned, ignoring her odd comment, about to keep walking toward the pool, when her voice stopped you. “So,” she said, adjusting her grip on her weights. "Why didn’t you step forward?”

You froze for half a second before slowly facing her again. “Sorry?”

She looked at you fully now, the expression on her face unreadable. Calm, composed, maybe a little amused. “Yesterday. Everyone stepped forward for me. Except you.”

“Except me and Cassie,” You corrected as you furrowed your eyebrows together. You scanned her expression, trying to figure out why she was suddenly bringing this up as your first one-on-one conversation. "Why? Did I hurt your ego?"

Alexia chuckled at your banter. "Ooh, never thought you were the feisty type." She commented. "But seriously, I don't really care for all that. I just... was curious about you."

You licked your lips, suddenly aware of how dry they were. “I guess… I didn’t want the attention. Everyone already wanted you. I was already in a couple. It just didn’t feel worth the chaos.”

She tilted her head. “So…it was about everyone else.”

Your brows furrowed. “What?”

“You didn’t step forward because of them. Not because of me.” A smile played on her lips, subtle but undeniably present. 

You blinked at her, thrown away by her statement. “Well, yeah. What does it matter?”

Alexia paused, then lowered the weights again, slower this time. “It doesn’t. I was just curious.”

Then her eyes locked with yours. Still quiet. Still unreadable.

“So, even if you didn’t step forward, you still want me. Is that right?” She asked. You felt your breath catch. The way she said it wasn’t arrogant. She sounded… genuinely curious. Like she wanted the truth to your attraction. It felt mildly invasive, just enough to make you flush.

Something in your stomach stirred. You looked at the ground before returning your gaze back into Alexia's hazel eyes. God, why is she so intense? 

Before Alexia could prod you to answer, a chirpy voice chimed in. 

"Good morning, darling!" It was Savannah, clad in a tiny white bikini with her bleached blonde hair in a messy bun. She headed immediately to Alexia, ignoring you completely. She wrapped her arms around the Catalan from behind and pressed a kiss to her cheek. “Missed you in bed.”

Alexia didn’t move away. But she didn’t lean in either. Her eyes remained locked with yours as if she was still expecting an answer even with Savannah there. You didn’t say anything; you just walked toward the pool, the heat rising to your chest, your stomach turning from the interaction.

You felt Alexia’s eyes on you the entire time.

⋆˙⟡♡ Well, that question seemed heavier than the Barcelona captain's weights. Could Alexia be looking to strike a chord — or a nerve — with our musician?

And as for Savannah. I could say that that was definitely an offside, and by offside, I mean that Alexia wants Savannah off her side.

⋆˙⟡♡ You spent the rest of the day trying to focus on Cassie. 

Something about your interaction with Alexia just made you want to avoid her at all cost and just focus on Cassie. You tried to reciprocate her sweet gestures: cuddling by the pool, sitting on her lap, spoon feeding her breakfast.

It was enough to convince everyone that you were already a solid couple. Maybe even enough to convince yourself.

⋆˙⟡♡ After lunch with everyone, you decided to settle by the pool, sunbathing and trying to get some time alone from the rest of the Islanders.

Jade slithered to you. “You won’t believe what I just heard,” she said, a playful and excited lilt to her tone.

You lifted your sunglasses slightly, giving her a curious look. “Yeah?”

Jade’s grin grew wider as she perched on the edge of your sun lounger, glowing from the joy of gossiping. “Alexia’s been talking smack about you and Cassie.” She said in a lower tone.

Your stomach did a strange flip at the mention of Alexia’s name. “What about us?” you asked, trying to keep your voice casual.

“So, we were sitting around the kitchen, right? Me, River, and April. Just talking about which couples we thought would last. And when we all agreed it was you and Cassie,” she recounted, nodding along as she narrated. “Alexia… well, let’s just say maybe you were right about her yesterday. She does have an issue..”

“Wait, what did she say?” You sat up now, pushing your sunglasses from your face to the top of your head.

“She kinda implied that you and Cassie were just faking it for the cameras,” Jade said with a low voice. "Not her exact words but she said something about preferring couples who aren't all for show, like, actually in love and not for the cameras.”

You froze, unsure of what to think or say. You tried to not seem fake, genuinely trying with Cassie but it felt like she saw right through you. “Did she say why she thought that?”

Jade shrugged. “No but she just said she didn’t think you two were as strong as you seemed.”

You paused, looking at the pool and trying to think it through. Jade looked at you and furrowed her eyebrows. “You seem bothered.”

“Well, yeah…” you paused, considering maybe what you said to her had something to do with it. But then again, you didn't really give anything away. “I mean, I don’t know. It’s just that Alexia…”

You paused your statement as you see Cassie walking towards you, with two smoothies in hand. She flashed you a grin, but when she saw your expression, it faltered. “Hey babe, what’s going on?” She asked as she sat by your feet, handing you your drink.

You sighed, taking a long sip of your smoothie. Jade decided to fill in Cassie for you. “Alexia thinks you're faking it for the cameras,” she explained. “We all thought you two were the couple to look out for but she really wasn’t convinced.”

Cassie’s face instantly tightened, her lips pressing together in irritation. “Seriously? She said that?”

“Right in front of everyone,” Jade said, too pleased with herself. “Like it was no big deal too, as if it was an established fact.”

Cassie let out a small laugh, but it wasn’t a funny one. She seemed annoyed. “I don’t get it. Why does she care so much about us?” She scoffed. “I’m not worried about her opinion. If anything, she should worry about her own relationship.”

Jade chimed in again, her voice dripping with  amusement. “Yeah, and it’s not like she’s paying attention to Savannah anyway. Poor girl’s practically throwing herself at Alexia and getting nothing in return.” She shook her head. “I just don’t know what game she’s playing cause she’s not responding to Savannah’s advances but she also isn’t making an attempt to connect with anyone else at all."

"Yeah, she hasn't pulled anyone else for a chat." Cassie rolled her eyes. “I think she’s just here to stir the pot." 

You stayed silent, sipping your drink.

⋆˙⟡♡ Well, well, well, looks like trouble’s already brewing in paradise, and we haven’t even introduced the snake and the apple yet. And by apple, I don't mean the fruit. I mean, Apple — our new bombshell.

⋆˙⟡♡ Last time on Love Island, the islanders paired up, and the couple on top of the Villa’s Billboard Charts? Singer-songwriter Y/N and band guitarist Cassie. But not everyone’s a fan.

“They just seem so always on,” Alexia said in the recap clip. She shrugged. “I just don’t buy it. It seems too posed. I don’t think they’re really into each other.”

And things are about to get even hotter in paradise with our new forbidden fruit, Apple. Will everything stay sweet and peachy or will she leave everyone feeling a little rotten?

“Hi! I’m Apple,” The girl with the atrociously orange fake tan and long lashes said in her introduction video. “I’m a hairdresser so you know I’m great at scissoring.” “My type? I’ve always had a thing for tall girls with tattoos, so if you’ve got ink and a little bit of height, I'm sold. In other words, I want Cassie.” “I’m not here to make girl friends; I’m here to steal girlfriends.”

⋆˙⟡♡ The bombshell, Apple, invited Cassie on a date. As soon as Cassie left, the whole villa practically rushed to your side, offering reassurances, comforting you with words like, "Cassie would never go for someone else," and "She only has eyes for you."

Despite their well-meaning attempts, you couldn't shake the uneasy feeling that stirred in your stomach. You weren’t all in with Cassie yet but a part of you felt a bit upset by it. If Cassie ended up liking Apple, you’d end up out of a couple and that could mean being the first to go home.

"I'm fine, guys. Really. I just need some alone time to clear my head," you reassured them, before heading out to one of the more private day beds.

As soon as everyone was off your back, gathered in the kitchen to gossip about the new bombshell, Alexia followed you. You could see her make her way to you – dressed in a tiny bikini that showed off her muscles. She looked absolutely stunning but you were too distracted by the new bombshell dilemma to take it all in.

"Are you seriously worried?" Alexia asked, raising a doubtful eyebrow as she sat by the foot of your bed.

“A bit but I don’t know,” you sighed, fiddling with your water bottle. “I trust Cassie. And, well, if she likes this new bombshell, then at least it’s early days. But yeah… I do feel a bit off.”

Alexia tilted her head slightly, humming as she looked you over. She moved closer to you, sitting by your side now, her strong arm brushing against yours and the side of her leg knocking yours. Suddenly, your mind was divided between Cassie and Alexia whose proximity was making your cheeks flush.

“Cassie seems really... popular, huh? She's everyone’s type. Tall, pretty, good girl with that bad girl vibe.” Alexia said in an indecipherable neutral tone, breaking the silence. “Can't really blame Apple for making a move, right?"

You raised an eyebrow, keeping your tone steady. "Yeah, okay. You don’t have to rub it in." 

Alexia chuckled. “Sorry, just pointing it out.” She said before pausing, letting the awkward silence linger for a moment. “I just remembered that yesterday, you said you didn’t step forward for me because you didn’t like the idea of competition.”

You looked over at Alexia, unsure of her point. She turned towards you, locking eyes. Her hazel eyes looked warm, practically glowing under the light of the sun. You felt your heart thump faster at the intensity of her gaze.

“What’s your point?” You said under your breath.

Alexia averted her gaze. “My point is…” she paused. “How are you going to handle the competition when it comes to Cassie? Especially with Apple in the picture.”

You stayed silent, turning to remove your gaze from her. Alexia paused, sneaking a look at your expression, trying to read you. “And I’m sure she’s not the only girl in this villa interested in Cassie.” she added. “Just weird to me how you didn’t want competition when it came to me but you don’t seem that worried about Cassie.”

⋆˙⟡♡ You entered the confessional hut, ready to rant.

“God, I really wasn’t bothered that much by Apple since I know Cassie, and I know Cassie is not the type to be easily swayed.” You ran a hand through your hair. “But Alexia – GOD. She’s actually pissing me off. She’s always in our business and I never really knew before but now, I know.” You groaned. “She’s obviously into Cassie! That’s why she’s been trying to throw me off the whole time, staring at me without any care for who sees. She’s just trying to get into my head.”

⋆˙⟡♡ God, these clueless lesbians frustrate me. She wants YOU, girl! Get a hint!

⋆˙⟡♡ You were trying to cool off from your interaction with Alexia by joining Jade and April for some yoga when one of the other islanders Heather exclaimed loudly. “I got a text!”

Everyone rushed towards her, excited as to your first challenge.

"Islanders, it’s time for a game of ‘Who Did It?’ The rules are simple: We’ll read out some juicy confessions, and you have to guess which islander did it. When you think you know, kiss the person you think is guilty!" Everyone is buzzing with excitement. “Apple and Cassie are already waiting for you in the garden so hurry and get ready to smooch.”

⋆˙⟡♡ Once you were in the garden, you were grouped into two, partners split up into two separate groups with the bombshell Apple hosting and reading the confessions. Cassie gave you a smile and a wave from where her group was, not able to say anything more but you could tell she was pleased to see you. That seemed like a good sign that she was still in it with me.

But more than seeing Cassie again, you were actually more pleased that Cassie and Alexia were in the same group so they couldn’t kiss each other. With your suspicion about Alexia liking Cassie, the last thing you wanted was to see them kissing.

⋆˙⟡♡ The game began, and your team was up first as the guessers. Everyone seemed to play it safe, kissing their own partners instead of taking a real guess. You weren’t one to break the pattern, and honestly, you didn’t want to kiss anyone except Cassie.

“This islander has hooked up with a famous popstar,” Apple announced. The others gasped and murmured. You scanned the room, your gaze landing first on Cassie, who shot you a cheeky shrug and a playful grin. You were about to step toward her when your eyes met Alexia’s. Her expression was unreadable, like she was watching you closely. It felt like she was waiting for you to make your way to her.

You paused, shaking off the thought. Don’t even think about it; she’s just trying to get to you.

You walked up to Cassie, cupping her face before pressing a soft kiss on her lips. The group egged you on, urging for more, and Cassie pulled you into a deeper kiss, her arms wrapped around you. It felt nice, but you couldn’t shake the feeling of Alexia’s eyes on you the whole time.

"Well, that’s a winning kiss!" Apple grinned. "In more ways than one: Cassie’s clearly a great kisser, and Y/N got it right. It was Cassie!"

⋆˙⟡♡ Your group had just scored 2 points, and now it was the other team’s turn. Cassie was first up.

“This girl claims that one of her talents is an amazing porn voice.” Apple announced, fanning herself with the prompt cards as she made a shocked expression.

The room instantly erupted with knowing glances, and it was clear to everyone: it was Jade, the only voice actor in the villa. 

You shot Cassie a playful eye roll, half-smiling, then nodded subtly toward Jade. Go for it, you signaled her with your eyes. Without hesitation, Cassie leaned in, her lips finding Jade’s in a quick, soft peck. Jade turned to you, mouthing an apology, but you just laughed it off. You weren’t bothered by the harmless kiss; after all, it was barely more than a peck, and it was Jade.

Everyone settled down after a few teasing comments about your partner and your best friend kissing which you just rolled your eyes at. Once everyone was back to their spot, it was Alexia’s turn.

Suddenly, you could feel your body tense up for some reason. Apple cleared her throat, ready to read the next confession. “Awe, did this confession get lost? It’s so cute.” She teased, pouting. Just by her reaction, you knew it was yours. “Okay, so this islander got ghosted after her first attempt at sexting.”

Everyone cooed and chuckled, poking fun at the most innocent confession said so far. You felt your cheeks flush, unsure if it was because of the other Islanders’ reaction or Alexia’s unwavering gaze on you. You bit your lip, looking at your feet.

Alexia smirked as she walked towards you. You could feel your breath catch in your throat as she came closer. You looked up at her, meeting those intoxicating hazel eyes. You swear you stopped breathing for a moment. Alexia put a hand on your face, thumb grazing your cheekbone for a moment. It felt like forever – just you two standing closely as she cradled your face and she scanned your eyes.

Your feelings were starting to become confusing and your mind was filled with incoherent thoughts. You never fully considered ever being attracted to Alexia; you knew you found her attractive but maybe you suppressed it so much, trying not to overcomplicate your feelings. Maybe it seemed doable then but with her right in front of you, staring at you with those intense eyes and her hands on you so tenderly – it just felt like you were coming undone.

And before you could even fully process your thoughts, she was kissing you.

You couldn’t help but feel your eyes flutter shut as you melted into the warmth of her kiss, your hands holding on to her strong arms for balance as she held your waist with them, holding you flush against you. Alexia kissed you with the perfect balance of gentle intimacy and firm yearning. A satisfied sound escaped your lips as you felt her tongue enter your mouth, warm and firm but not imposing. It would be a lie to say that that was not one of the best kisses you ever had.

You didn’t even realize how long you had been kissing until you heard the group’s whistles and teasing shouts. Blinking your eyes open, you pulled back, your breath coming a little faster than usual. You looked away from Alexia, a bit embarrassed at your eager reciprocation of that kiss. You feel like you just got exposed.

The girls beside you jokingly elbowed you and teased you. Apple chuckled. “Not as innocent as we thought, huh?”

You avoided Alexia and Cassie’s gaze the entire game. 

⋆˙⟡♡ Yikes, did an Argentinian goat arrive in the villa? Cause things just got Messi.

⋆˙⟡♡ While everyone's all smiles after letting their lips loose during the challenge, there's one thing tighter than our Islanders’ bums: the tension between Cassie, Alexia, and Y/N.

⋆˙⟡♡ In the confession room:

You were slumped on your seat, hands dragging down your face as you groaned. “I’m literally an introvert thrown into the middle of a telenovela. This is like my worst nightmare,” you muttered, peeking between your fingers. “I hate drama. I avoid it like the plague. And somehow? I’m smack in the middle of it.”

⋆˙⟡♡ Look at the bright side, Y/N. You could write a song about this drama. Let's call it "Snogging Another Girl In Front of My Partner." Sounds like a banger to me!

You exhaled, eyes drifting toward the floor as you tried to piece it all together, eyes focused away from the camera. “I like Cassie. A lot. I mean, I picked her on day one, and I’ve intended to put all my eggs in her basket. I really thought we were just... solid. But then there’s Alexia. And at first, I thought she was just... I don’t know, staring because she fancied Cassie? Or maybe she was bitter that things didn’t click with Savannah and she was just salty watching Cassie and I actually get along.” You sighed another time. “But after that kiss…” you trailed off. “I don’t know. I really don’t know.”

Cassie looked mildly bothered, arms crossed as she sat on the edge of her seat in the confession hut. “I mean, yeah. It bothered me,” she admitted, glancing away for a second. “We were doing so well. Like, I actually thought we were one of those couples that figured it out early. That we could just chill and ride it out to the end, win the whole thing.” She huffed out a sigh, then looked straight at the camera. “But seeing her kiss Alexia? I’m not stupid. There’s clearly something there, something to be worried about. I just don’t know how worried I should be cause it might just be a one-time thing like, it might just be a challenge kiss… or I might actually be losing my girl.”

The reel cut to you again. You looked genuinely conflicted, fidgeting with the string of your bikini bottom. “I really can’t figure out Alexia’s feelings too. She’s so confusing.”

Alexia looked effortlessly composed in her reel, reclined casually with one leg crossed.  “I like Y/N.” She said nonchalantly with a shrug and a calm expression, unbothered by the whole drama. “She’s with Cassie now but that doesn’t change things for me. It’s not really that complicated to me. I like her and that's really all that is to me."

⋆˙⟡♡ I’m not a geometrist but I know a love triangle when I see one. 

⋆˙⟡♡ “She’s obviously into you,” Jade said as you two waded in the pool while everyone was working out together “But like… you’re with Cassie.”

You groaned, dragging your fingers through the water. “I know. But I can’t help feeling… conflicted, I guess.”

Jade tilted her head, brows raised. “Babe, the fact that you're even doubting says a lot. Maybe you’re not as all-in with Cassie as you thought… and I saw the way you kissed. That just kinda sealed the deal in my head that you might really be into Alexia.” She held up her hands quickly. “And genuinely, no judgment from me. I’m just saying… maybe it’s time to widen your palette. Try the Spanish cuisine.”

You gave her a look as you splashed her with water for the innuendo. “Just this morning you were telling me Cassie and I were endgame. Now you’re basically shoving me into another girl’s arms.”

Jade laughed. “Well, that’s back when I thought you two were satisfied being the boring couple that wins it all in the end with minimal drama and conflict but now… now that there's a ridiculously hot Spanish football player eyeing you like she’s ready to devour you.” She shrugged. “So now, I say explore, live a little.”

You shook your head but considered her words for a moment. Jade could tell she was getting to you, shooting you a smile. “It’s Love Island, babe. Don’t force yourself to fall for the first girl you couple with.”

⋆˙⟡♡ After dinner, Cassie took your hand and pulled you aside, leading you away from the fire pit and into one of the quieter corners of the garden. Her grip was tight, her expression guarded, and you could already feel a knot forming in your stomach. You knew a difficult conversation was about to happen and you never liked having to deal with confrontation.

 “I just…” she began, her voice barely above a whisper as she rubbed her thumb over your knuckles. “I feel like we’ve been solid since day one. Like we actually found something real here.” She paused, swallowing hard. “And then now with Alexia…”

You paused, not saying anything, focusing your gaze on her thumb drawing patterns on your hands. Cassie let out a shaky sigh. “She’s not just anyone either. She’s this big-time athlete who everyone wants. I just feel threatened cause she’s like everything I’m not.”

You couldn’t help a quiet chuckle, trying to lighten the mood. “Who everyone wants? You want her too?” you teased gently, wrapping an arm around her and idly playing with the hair on her nape.

Cassie let out a breathy laugh, but her eyes didn’t soften. “No, but seriously, babe.” She reached up to tuck a strand of hair behind your ear and looked at you intently. “Can you just… tell me the truth?”

A tension hung in the air as Cassie moved closer to you. “Right now, right here. Are you all in with me? Or are you just leading me on?” Cassie sighed. “Cause I don’t want to be blindsided in the next recoupling. I need to know what you feel now.”

You froze.

It wasn’t a hard question. Not really. But the answer stuck in your throat like a stone. You wanted to say yes, to promise her, to kiss her and make her feel safe. But you couldn’t force it. During the first few days, you felt bad leading Cassie on, making her think you were sure of her from the first coupling.

This finally felt like your chance to be honest. You bit your lip and tried to muster the strength to say something but you couldn’t even manage to keep eye contact, averting your gaze.

“Y/N?” Her voice cracked.

You looked up for half a second and she saw it in your face.

Cassie exhaled sharply. “Unbelievable.” She whispered before she shook her head. She dropped your hand like it disgusted her. She stood up and walked away, running off to the other girls to rant.

You didn’t follow her. It felt horrible to hurt her like that but you thought it was better than to keep leading her on.

⋆˙⟡♡ Alexia was sipping on martinis with the other girls when Cassie stormed into the dining area. “What got into your panties, rockstar?” She said teasingly.

Cassie was practically turning red, annoyed with the comment especially after everything that happened. “Fuck off, Alexia.”

What’s an all-girl season without a little catfight? Come on girls, claws out! It’s girl fight time.

“Oh, I got on her nerves.” Alexia whispered to Jade, nonchalantly sipping on her cocktail.

Or not… Alexia seems too unbothered to even engage Cassie in an argument.

Everyone rushed to Cassie, comforting her and asking her what happened. Alexia stayed put, eyes wandering towards the direction of where Cassie came from. She finished her drink and swiftly got up, heading to where you were.

⋆˙⟡♡ “Your puppy dog’s making a fuss over there,” Alexia said as she walked toward you, a slow, smug smile pulling at her lips. “Whimpering to everyone like she hurt her paw.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” You shot back in a low tone, not really in the mood to joke around.

Alexia shrugged as she lowered herself onto the daybed by your feet, facing you, casually resting her hand on your calf, fingers brushing your skin with a sense of familiarity. “I don’t know… you tell me what that was about.” She raised an eyebrow, her tone playful but with an underlying seriousness. A moment of silence took over before she spoke up again. “So… I take it that chapter’s closed?”

You hesitated, not knowing if you were comfortable totally just ending your chapter with Cassie. While you couldn’t deny the chemistry you had with Alexia, you also weren’t so keen on the kind of drama you’d have to deal with if you chose to be with Alexia instead. 

Alexia’s fingers lingered on your calf, looking at you intensely with her hazel eyes. “What’s going on in that head of yours?” She asked in a low and serious tone. “Looks like you’re still deciding whether you want to keep pretending.”

You snapped, finally meeting Alexia’s gaze. “Pretending?” You half-laughed, trying to act casual. “What’s there to pretend?”

The Catalan just shrugged back at you and raised her eyebrows. You groaned at her expression, feeling like Alexia was just playing a game to confuse you or drive you insane. “I’m not in the mood to play this game right now. I'm serious."

Alexia didn’t respond right away. Instead, her eyes locked onto yours, and the playful edge in her expression disappeared. She bit her lip and leaned in slightly, pausing for a moment. “Alright, if you want serious, I’ll be serious,” she said, her voice now low and steady. 

You met her gaze, your breath hitching at the sudden intensity. “I’m serious about you,” she continued, words hitting harder than you expected. Suddenly, your heart was racing in your chest.

Her eyes never wavered, never leaving yours. “That kiss wasn’t just a game. You felt it too.” she said in a deliberate tone. “I know you enjoyed my kiss more than hers.”

You scoffed, shaking your head. “You’re so full of yourself.”

“Maybe,” she said with a small shrug and a smirk playing on her lips. “Or maybe I just know how to read you.”

She leaned in, slowly closing the distance. Her hand lifted, tucking a loose strand of hair behind your ear. Her touch stayed, fingers brushing the side of your neck. Her palm was warm against your skin.

“I know you’re trying to be angry,” she said quietly. “Trying to act like that kiss and this… feeling you have for me doesn’t mean anything. But underneath all that… I know you want to kiss me again.”

Your lips parted, ready to fire back, to call her arrogant, to drive her away. But before you could speak, her lips were on yours.

All the tension, the frustration, everything… just gone in an instant. Whatever bit of confusion and apprehension you had in your body melted away as you wrapped your arms around Alexia, deepening the kiss. You knew how this show went; there was going to be tons of drama making your way. But right now, none of that mattered.

All you could focus on was her lips on yours.

⋆˙⟡♡ While I’m definitely cheering for Alexia and Y/N, the other islanders look ready to flash them a red card. 

One of the islanders, River, shook her head and rolled her eyes after Cassie recounted your conversation.  “You know what, you dodged a bullet, Cass.” She said as she put a hand on Cassie’s shoulder. “Like, obviously Alexia’s been into her from the start but Y/N is shady. I bet she’s just putting on this whole innocent girl act.” Apple nodded. “She’s definitely sneaky. I wouldn’t trust her.”

⋆˙⟡♡ In the confessionals:

“I definitely had my eyes on Y/N when I first entered because she just seemed so different and meek but I’m seeing that maybe that’s just a facade.” River told the camera, shaking her head as she played with her rings. “I don’t know. I don’t trust her.”

Apple flipped a lock of hair from her shoulder to her back and rolled her eyes. “I don’t care about her. I just know I want Cassie and she just handed me Cassie on a silver platter.” A playful smirk grew on her face. “So, maybe I should thank her.”

Your best friend Jade sighed, crossing her arms. “I think everyone is going to regret acting like this because this is fucking Love Island.” She said, looking exasperated. “It’s not Friend Island or Commit-with-your-first-couple Island. That’s just not the game!”

⋆˙⟡♡ Your magical moment with Alexia was short-lived because you were still coupled up with Cassie, which meant you still had to sleep in bed together. You were initially worried but realized that this meant Cassie was going to let you breathe tonight and not suffocate you with her cuddles. So, even if that meant it was awkward as fuck sharing a bed with her, it was still a win for you.

⋆˙⟡♡ Despite having the best sleep in the villa you’ve had so far, you still woke up earlier than everyone else. You looked over to Alexia and Savannah’s bed which only had Savannah now sprawled on the bed. A blush crept across your face at the thought of having a moment alone with Alexia while everyone else was asleep. 

This time, you decided to put on a bit more makeup and wear a cuter bikini before heading out to the pool area. As soon as you walked out to the open area, you heard a low wolf whistle. “Oh guapa.” You looked over to Alexia who was in the middle of a mat workout. 

You walked over to Alexia who had now stood up and was quick to wrap her arms around you, pulling you in closer, putting a kiss on your cheek. “Good morning,” she cooed. “You slept well?”

“Mmhhmm,” you said as you enjoyed the sensation of Alexia peppering kisses on your jaw and neck. You giggled and pushed her a bit away, feeling incredibly flustered by the feeling of her lips. “Well, someone’s in the mood.”

She smirked, a hand still wrapped around your waist. "Yeah, I've been wanting to do that ever since I saw you but Miss Emo Popstar was always in the way."

You chuckled but rolled your eyes. "You're actually so mean."

She chuckled. "Hmmm, but you still have got a crush on me," she teased, leaning in to plant another kiss on your cheek. “So, are you going for a morning swim? Or do you want to have a little talk first?”

“Hmm, a talk sounds great.”

⋆˙⟡♡ Alexia and you sat in one of the morning day beds, a cautious distance between the two of you. While the conversation started off a bit awkward and stiff, it eventually flowed naturally and after a while, you two were laughing and relating pretty well with each other.

Alexia talked about her career, her ACL injury, her doubts after her injury. Her eyes sparkled whenever she talked about football; it was obvious that she was passionate which drew you in even more since you felt the same way about music. You told Alexia about how you got into songwriting, being an introvert who had massive stage fright, but how you were trying to come out of your shell now as a singer, forced to be in the public eye.

“So, Love Island must be you stepping out of your comfort zone,” Alexia said, hazel eyes scanning yours.

You nodded. “Yeah, it’s a huge pressure for someone who never really liked having attention on them but also… cause I’ve never been in a long-term relationship before.”

Alexia’s jaw dropped. “Are you serious?”

You nodded. “Is that like a red flag or something?”

She chuckled and shook her head. “I think that’s cute actually.” She said, smiling. “How old are you again?”

“23,” you said, ready to get defensive. “And I know I’m younger but I swear, I can be mature.”

Alexia laughed. “Don’t worry. I can tell.”

You bit your lip and nodded nervously. “Does my age bother you?”

She shook her head. “Does my age bother you?”

“Not at all,” you responded.

“Good,” she hummed. She put a hand on your thigh, which sent electricity through your body. It felt like all doubts and apprehension you had about Alexia just fizzled away.

Everything felt just right.

⋆˙⟡♡ It had been just under a week, but the Love Island setup made it feel like time moved in slow motion. With no phones, no books, no music, not even a deck of cards, your entire world had shrunk to this villa and the people inside it. You spent nearly every hour of the day talking to Alexia, Jade, and the other Islanders, caught in this strange bubble where real life felt far away.

And while it was kind of nice to feel disconnected from everything else, it also gave you way too much time to think. Especially about Alexia.

You’d had crushes before, sure. Situationships. Passing things. But this? This felt different. With Alexia, it was like something had clicked and short-circuited at the same time. She made you feel something new and intense, something you didn’t have a name for yet. 

And the worst part was you couldn’t escape it. You lived in the same space, shared the same room, breathed the same air. There was no time apart. At least not completely.

But it wasn’t just the feelings that were getting to you. It was everything else too. The way half the villa looked at you like you were a villain for how things ended with Casey. Like you’d personally gone out of your way to break her heart on live TV, as if it was just out of spite. Never mind the fact that this was literally the point of the show. That you were all here to explore connections. Some people had already made up their minds about you being the villain, and it stung more than you’d like to admit.

It was all getting to you. You thought you mentally prepared yourself for the drama but maybe you lacked in preparing to actually have to deal with all these intense emotions paired with having to fight against losing your mind over other people’s perception. It was too much. 

So, the next day, you decided a little space was what you needed to clear your head.

⋆˙⟡♡ “I GOT A TEXT!”

Jade’s voice cut through the chatter, echoing through the villa.

You pulled yourself off the flamingo floatie, dripping as you stepped out of the pool, and made your way to the kitchen. Everyone started to gather around. You could feel Alexia watching you, but you didn’t look at her. You couldn’t. Not right now.

Jade held up her phone, grinning. “The public has voted for the Islander who needs a spa day,” she read dramatically. “And the Islander who got the most votes is… Y/N.”

You blinked. For a second, you weren’t sure if you’d heard right. Then everyone turned to look at you. You smiled genuinely, unable to hide your excitement despite the annoyed look from Casey. 

“That was exactly what I needed,” you said, voice quieter, more vulnerable than usual. “Everything’s just been so overwhelming lately. I think I forgot how intense this would actually be. I know not everyone’s happy I got it. I’m sure Casey and Savannah have something to say. But honestly? I don’t care. I think the public saw how rough it’s been for me, and I’m really grateful for that.”

Jade paused, wiggling her eyebrows playfully. “And she gets to take any islander out with her on her spa date.”

A few people oohed under their breath. All eyes flicked toward Alexia.

You met her gaze for just a second. She wasn’t smiling. She didn’t look surprised. Her expression was calm, maybe even unreadable. But that only made your heart beat faster.

You hesitated. You wanted to choose her. You really did. But the truth was, she was part of the reason you needed this break in the first place. Your feelings for her were getting too loud, too heavy, and you needed to breathe before they swallowed you whole.

You looked away. “I pick Jade,” you said.

⋆˙⟡♡ In the confessionals:

“I like Alexia. I seriously do,” you said, pouring your heart out to the camera. Without the privilege of a therapist, you were starting to treat the camera like one. “But that’s exactly why I need space from her. Like it’s not even her fault; I just… can’t deal with these feelings right now. It’s too much.”

Casey sat cross-legged, arms draped over her knees, clearly trying to play it cool. “She left me for Alexia, which whatever, that’s the game. But then doesn’t even take her on the date? It just makes it feel like she doesn’t really know what she wants.”

Jade grinned at the camera, bun wobbling on top of her head. “I’m not surprised, to be honest. She’s like my best mate here so I think I know her best and I can just tell that with everything going on, it makes sense she’d want a break from everyone.” She smiled. "Well, everyone except her bestie, of course."

Alexia had her arms crossed but she had a serious expression. “It would be a lie if I said I didn’t want her to pick me,” she said simply with a shrug. “Of course I did. But I get it. We’re all going through a lot. I’m not worried though. This won’t be the only chance we get for a date. I’ll have my moment with her. I know I will."

⋆˙⟡♡ Looks like the Spanish captain is playing the long game. And even if she didn’t get the date, she has something else that’s rarer in this villa… emotional maturity.

And speaking of a lack of emotional maturity.

⋆˙⟡♡ Apple sat cross-legged on the sunbed right beside Casey, sunglasses perched on her head as she glanced toward the villa. “I genuinely can’t tell what game she’s playing,” she muttered to Casey. “She’s either faking the whole sensitive act or she’s just really bad at being honest. Either way, it’s getting old.”

Casey scoffed, shaking her head before taking a sip from her water bottle. “She left our couple, didn’t even look back, and now wants space from Alexia too?” She rolled her eyes. “It’s like she gets off on confusing people.”

Apple leaned back, lips curling into a smirk. “She doesn’t seem genuine at all. And honestly?” She tilted her head. “She's just a dramatic mess. It’s good you got out of that couple sooner than later."

Unbeknownst to them, Alexia had walked out from the kitchen and paused just behind the sun beds. She couldn’t control herself after overhearing the conversation.

“Yeah, good for all of us,” she commented cheekily as she walked into their line of sight. “Could tell she never really was in it with you.”

Casey furrowed her eyebrows. “Seriously, why are you even in this conversation?”

Alexia raised her brows, unbothered. “Maybe because you’re talking loud enough for the entire villa to hear. If you want privacy, try whispering.”

Casey stood up, pushing her sunglasses onto her head. “Alexia, can you just learn how to back off for once?”

Alexia let out a low, dry laugh. “When have I ever crossed your boundaries? Because from where I’m standing, it’s you and your little group that can’t stop running your mouths about Y/N.”

Casey’s jaw tightened. “You don’t know what you’re talking about.” She retorted, trying to hurt Alexia’s feelings. “I’ve got a solid group of friends here and it’s not my fault they stick by me.”

Alexia shrugged. “Maybe instead of turning bitter and questioning her character, you should be asking each other why she didn’t want to stay with you.” A playful smile grew on her face.

Casey straightened up her posture, eyes dark. “You better watch yourself.” She said as she stepped closer to Alexia, looking her in the eyes as if she was in a stare down before a boxing match.

Alexia didn’t move. She just put her hands up, slow and mocking, with a teasing smile on her face. “Yeah, sure.” She chuckled. To further annoy Casey, she gave her a cheeky wink before walking away. "Don't hurt yourself, Casey."

⋆˙⟡♡ In the confessional: 

Alexia chuckled. “Casey wants to act tough and all,” she said, an amused lilt to her voice. “Someone needs to remind her that she’s a skinny musician and I’m an athlete. I won’t fight her because I’ve got integrity and because I don’t think that would be fair for her.”

⋆˙⟡♡ You just returned from your spa day with Jade which helped you get the necessary time away from the drama in the villa. But you didn’t expect to return to the villa with the tension even higher than ever.

Alexia was quick to greet you and pull you aside for a talk which, while daunting, meant being away from the other group's tension.

⋆˙⟡♡ “I know why you’ve been distant and avoiding me,” she said once you were both seated, her voice quiet and thoughtful. Her finger idly traced along her bottom lip as she looked at you, waiting.

You glanced down at your hands, fiddling with your thumbs. “Hmm?”

Your voice came out smaller than you meant it to, and of course, the flutters in your chest were back. They always showed up when she was near.

Alexia reached out and gently took your hands in hers, stopping your nervous habit. The touch was light, but the way she looked at you made your stomach twist in the best way. Her eyes met yours, steady and soft, and for a second you forgot how to breathe properly. Something about those hazel eyes.

Alexia didn’t continue her statement but you knew what she meant instantly. She took her hand in yours, thumb rubbing against your hands. A silence took over between the two of you. It was that kind of loaded silence that just made your heart beat faster.

Alexia broke the loaded silence. “So, if there was a recoupling tonight, can I trust you?”

Even after avoiding her and struggling with your feelings, you didn’t hesitate to nod. “Yeah, of course.”

“Yeah?” Alexia’s eyes practically lit up. 

You locked eyes with the Catalan. You suddenly felt unfair with her, being so avoidant the whole day without having a chat to explain to her what was going on… but here she was, being understanding and patient. 

Maybe it was her age but she was clearly more emotionally mature than anyone else in the villa, including you. It just felt like it was time for you to learn from her.

Instead of answering her, you delicately put a hand on her cheek, thumb touching her cheek as you leaned into her. You paused, taking one last moment to gaze into her eyes, before making the first move and capturing your lips with hers. The kiss was gentle and soft at first until Alexia put a hand behind your neck, deepening the kiss. It was the kind of kiss that made you feel weak in the knees and light-headed.

Suddenly, everything just felt right.

⋆˙⟡♡ And as expected, the recoupling happened that night. Since it was the first sapphic version of the show, it was being done differently. Instead of girls picking guys or guys picking girls, it was now all left to the public as to how everyone would couple up. For this particular recoupling, they voted on which islanders get to go first. They’d seen your drama with Alexia and Casey. They saw the other islanders’ drama. It seemed like they knew best what line up to follow.

Luckily, you went first and there was no doubt in your mind. You stood in front of everyone but your eyes were fixed only on Alexia. 

“While things have been difficult the past week and I’ve tried to keep my distance because of my avoidant habits,” you started, your voice a little shaky, but warm, “the islander I’m choosing has always been patient with me. She’s shown me how serious she is with me, even when I’ve made it hard.”

You glanced down, biting your lip for a second before looking back at her.

“And I’m finally ready to show her I feel the same, and that I’m ready to go all in.”

You took a breath. “The islander I’m choosing is… Alexia.”

Alexia immediately walked towards where you were standing and she didn’t hesitate. Her hands cupped your face as she kissed you deeply. The islanders erupted into cheers. Well, most of them. Casey and Savannah barely clapped.

But that didn’t matter. For the first time, it felt like the pairing was right. Like you were exactly where you were supposed to be.

⋆˙⟡♡ The next days (and episodes) really went by smoothly for the two of you. The drama between you and the other islanders was soon forgotten as new drama emerged. Now, you and Alexia were getting along well with your bond growing stronger each day. At times, it felt like you two were just on vacation, relaxing, without a care in the world. Things were going well, and for once, you let yourself believe that everything was falling into place.

⋆˙⟡♡ But as always, Love Island is never about smooth sailing. As things were finally settling into a comfortable rhythm between you and Alexia, the producers had to rock the boat.

⋆˙⟡♡ “I got a text!” You exclaimed from the kitchen where you were making a coffee, your voice cutting throughout the villa. 

Everyone approached you, murmurs swirling around, excitement hanging in the air. No one had entered the villa in a while, so they were eager for any sort of news about a potential bombshell.

You opened the message aloud, and as soon as the words left your mouth, the room fell into stunned silence. “I don’t wanna step on anyone’s boots, but Y/N, you definitely caught my eye. I hope you don’t mind me stealing you away. Get ready for our date in 10 minutes. #GoalGetter #NoSuchThingAsTeammates.”

The reaction was immediate. Shouts, gasps, and excited chatter filled the space. It was clear that the mystery person was likely another footballer… and judging by the wording of the message, she was probably someone Alexia knew well. Everyone’s eyes were suddenly on Alexia. Though she seemed unbothered, you could see a furrow in her brow, her mind obviously working overtime behind those steady eyes. She wasn’t too worried yet… but she could feel that things were about to shift in the villa.

Before you could say anything else about the date, you were quickly whisked away by the other girls, all chattering excitedly as they helped you get ready.

⋆˙⟡♡ You nervously fidgeted with the hem of your skirt as you walked to the designated date place which was a nice Spanish restaurant. You bit your lip, not knowing who to expect.

As you walked towards the restaurant, a tanned girl with dark brown hair stood with a smile on her face. She was effortlessly dressed in a cream linen top and shorts; it was a casual look but it looked so effortlessly charming on her. She greeted you by reaching out to place her hand gently on your arm as she gave you a kiss on the cheek. “Hey, you look amazing.”

A blush crept on your cheek, feeling intimidated by the girl. “Thank you,” you responded. “You look stunning too.”

You two sat in front of each other as a waitress swiftly came to drop off a couple of drinks. “I’m Patri, by the way.” She said as she extended her hand to shake yours. “I’m so glad you decided to join me.”

Patri and you had the typical exchange of niceties and question-and-answers. You were trying to carefully skirt around her text message, unsure if it was an appropriate time to ask her about it. But without prompting, she brought it up. “Since you didn’t ask...” she chuckled. “I’m teammates with Alexia. We both play for the same club and for Spain.”

You nodded. “Yeah, I got that from the text. I was just kinda scared to bring it up.”

She smiled. “Scared? Why?”

You shrugged. “Well… I thought that if I knew for sure it would seem like a bigger betrayal for me to be on a date with her friend.”

Patri laughed, shaking her head. “Ouch… betrayal is one way to put it.” She said, raising her eyebrows before taking a sip of her red cocktail. She paused. “But really… the way I see it is, this is Love Island and I’d be doing her… and well, you and me… a disservice if I didn’t choose you out of courtesy.”

“Cause even if you and Alexia got together first, I don’t really want that to stop me from getting to know you.” She locked eyes with you, brown eyes full of sincerity. “You were truly the only girl who caught my eye in that villa.”

The intensity of Patri’s gaze caused a blush to tint your cheeks pink. You bit your lip as you subconsciously tucked a hair behind your ear, diverting your gaze to the table. “Why even me? I’m genuinely so boring,” you responded, reverting to your self-deprecating ways as you grew conscious.

Patri chuckled. “Well, I think you’re obviously gorgeous, like, completely my type. And, you seem kind and genuine…” she paused, “And well, it would be wrong of me not to mention that I already was a fan of your music before I even knew you were in Love Island.” 

Your eyes widened. “No way!”

“Yes, your latest single’s actually in our locker room playlist; I’m shocked that Alexia never recognized your name from our shared playlist…” 

You smiled at Patri as she continued to hype your music up, clearly a fan. It was cute and charming seeing her a bit fangirl-y over you. Something about being with her just felt… different from being with Alexia.

God, I’m in trouble.

⋆˙⟡♡ Patri was nothing like Alexia. 

While Alexia was more reserved and intense, Patri was extroverted and playful, making you laugh a lot and joking around. Patri was also touchy in a different way. Her touches were lighter, more subtle like brushing against your hand when she passed you something or feeding you a chip. It was playful and lighthearted. You couldn’t help but feel at ease with her.

She made you feel completely different than Alexia did. 

With Alexia, there was always an undercurrent of intensity, a sense that things were never quite simple, that every moment between you was heavy with meaning. But with Patri, it felt different. There was an ease, a simplicity that made you forget the complexities of everything around you. She made you feel like you didn’t have to think too much, that maybe you could just be.

The date went by so easily, once the initial nerves had settled. You had a drink, then another. The alcohol helped loosen you up, but it was more than that. It was Patri’s presence and her effortless charm that made everything feel like it was falling into place. You laughed more than you had in days. It felt like you were both just going along with the moment, no expectations, no overthinking.

Before you knew it, you were kissing her.

You didn’t even know how it happened at first. You figured it might have just happened after she joked about how good of a kisser she is but there was no way of knowing for sure. It just happened without a second thought, without the usual self-consciousness you usually felt on a first date. There was no thinking or analyzing the consequences; it was just you two having a good time.

Patri held your cheek as she deepened the kiss, locking lips before slipping her tongue into your mouth once you parted it. You hummed in satisfaction as you locked lips. Once she pulled away, you could feel your eyes flutter.

She giggled. “So, was that good?”

“That was…” You bit your lip, feeling giddy for a moment before suddenly remembering that you had Alexia nervously waiting for you in the villa. You cleared your throat, trying to shake off the giddiness that had taken over you just moments before.

Patri chuckled. “Well… too bad it’s time to go back to the villa,” she said. “I’d love to kiss you more.”

You smiled, trying to revert back to your more easy-going self early on the date but now all you could think about was how to deal with Alexia.

⋆˙⟡♡ When you returned to the villa, you could just feel the energy shift. Even if you and Patri had a good foot of space between the two of you, your chemistry together was just palpable. The cameras zoomed in on Alexia who might initially seem calm to any onlooker but the cameras did a good job of capturing her slightly clenching her jaw and raising her eyebrows. She wasn’t exactly pleased to see that it was indeed her teammate and good friend who got in between the two of you.

⋆˙⟡♡ Is it just me or does Alexia look like she had just been benched? Not too happy about Patri scoring this time!

⋆˙⟡♡ Later that afternoon, Patri pulled Alexia aside to have a chat in the quiet corner of the villa. Without looking too much into it, you’d think nothing was off or wrong with the teammates but a closer look would tell that there was obviously some tension.

After the two caught up with each other on what was going on outside the villa, Alexia cleared her throat. “Uh so… out of all the girls, huh?” She said with a half-laugh, intending it to sound casual but the edge was obvious in her tone.

Patri chuckled, seemingly unfazed but there was a fleeting hesitation before she responded. “I’m sorry, Ale. I genuinely didn’t want any drama between us…” she said with a calm voice. “But I’m here for love too and I’d be lying if I chose anyone else to go on a date with. I have to put myself first.”

Alexia nodded, her lips pressed into a thin line. She didn’t say anything immediately, and for a moment, it felt like she was weighing her response, carefully measuring each word. She met Patri’s gaze, her face unreadable.

“There’s nothing to apologize for,” Alexia said finally, though her voice was quieter than usual. “I get it. You didn’t choose her to start drama or hurt me; I know you and you aren’t that kind of person.”

Alexia paused. “But even if you didn’t mean to, you have to know that that offended me. It did hurt.”

Patri opened her mouth to say something, but Alexia raised a hand, cutting her off. “It’s fine. I’ll get over it. I always do; it's the captain's duty to be the bigger person, right?”

For a long moment, neither of them spoke, and the silence seemed to stretch, heavier than before. Patri looked at the distance, not wanting to look at Alexia due to intimidation. She sighed. “Let’s just play it out,” she said, still averting Alexia’s gaze. “Just like a friendlies match.”

Alexia chuckled and rolled her eyes.

⋆˙⟡♡ Is it just me or is Alexia’s demeanor nothing but friendly?

If I were Patri, I’d go running the opposite direction. RUN FOR SAFETY, PATRI! 

⋆˙⟡♡ Confessional:

Patri sighed and shrugged. “I know Ale’s probably pissed, but what can I do? I chose the person I was most attracted to,” she explained with animated hand gestures. “If her girl wasn’t interested at me, I’d stand down and back off… but she seemed interested. I can’t just cower away just because of my respect for Alexia.”

In contrast, Alexia was more reserved, arms crossed.  “I signed up for this, so I should’ve known something like this would happen,” she shook her head. “Doesn’t mean it’s easy. But that’s what I get for playing the game.” “I just feel like my trust is getting tested,” she looked at the camera now, eyes serious. “My trust in both Y/N and Patri.”

⋆˙⟡♡ Later, in bed with Alexia, you could easily tell that something has shifted between you. It was just how silent Alexia was and how her gaze seemed harder, more guarded in a sense. You sighed, feeling a wave of regret. 

“Alexia,” you whispered, trying to meet her eyes in the dim light. 

She hummed, locking eyes with you. “Hmm?” There was no softness or warmth in her voice or her gaze; she seemed so distant even if she was just right in front of you, cuddled up under the same duvet.

“Are you mad?” You asked, swallowing hard before biting your lip as you slowly moved closer to her, gently holding on to her arm for some physical contact. Your touch was almost tentative. 

The entire day, you didn’t really get to have a proper conversation. When you tried to talk to her about it, she brushed you off with a casual wave of her hand and a half-hearted, “It’s fine. It’s all good.” But you knew better. You could see it in her eyes. She was obviously bothered.

This was nothing like what had happened with Cassie. With Cassie, there had never really been a real connection or spark so it felt easier to consider being with Alexia while still being paired up with Cassie. Now, you were with Alexia and the bond… is just different. There’s an undeniable chemistry and spark between the two of you but the pull you felt toward Patri was also undeniable. 

With Cassie and Alexia, there was really no competition; Alexia was the clear winner even when you hadn’t known it yet. But with Alexia and Patri… it was just different. 

“Should I be mad?” Alexia asked after the long pause between you two. Since you didn’t get a chance to talk about what happened during your date, you never really got to tell Alexia that you kissed Patri but of course, being Love Island, the news got around fast and reached her instantly.

You sighed. “Maybe,” you responded, being vague about it. You paused, trying to move closer to Alexia, perhaps seeking some sort of comfort that all was fine even if you had slipped up but the Catalan offered nothing of the sort, remaining still and unmoving. 

Alexia sighed. “I just wanna know if you’re in it with me.” She said with a steady but low tone. “Obviously, I still like you and I am getting feelings for you but if you don’t feel that anymore—”

“I still feel that way,” you interrupted. “I still like you.”

She hummed in response. “And Patri?”

You hesitated, trying to piece together a proper response but nothing seemed like it would sound right. “I think I like her too.” You responded, being honest. “I can’t lie to you. I think while most my eggs are in your basket right now, I don’t want to not consider Patri and just close the door on that possible connection.”

Alexia nodded, eyebrows furrowing. “No, I get it. I can’t expect you to be just tied to me. It’s early days and it’s Love Island after all,” she responded, trying to sound mature.

You nodded thankfully, thinking it was all settled but when you leaned in for a kiss, Alexia stayed unmoving, not meeting you halfway or leaning in. You paused and just bid her good night before turning around, facing the opposite direction.

⋆˙⟡♡ The next morning, you woke up with a sense of guilt already settling into your chest. You thought maybe, just maybe, preparing breakfast would be a way to make things right with Alexia. The idea of quietly fixing things before the day began felt like a small gesture, something simple you could do to start mending the distance between you. But when you opened your eyes, she was already gone.

You looked around the dim room to see that most of the other islanders were still fast asleep in their beds, tangled in their sheets with their partner. The only other bed that was empty was Patri’s. You sighed, pulling the covers off of you to get up, deciding that a morning swim could help you clear your head.

Once you headed outside, you immediately noticed Alexia and Patri working out together, chuckling as if nothing was wrong between the two of them. You hummed, thinking that maybe the drama could be quashed by today and that there would be no issue with you considering Patri as an option while still partnered up with Alexia.

“Good morning, guapa!” Your typical morning greeting sounded different coming out of Patri’s mouth. You smiled at the two footballers, waving at them before heading over to the workout station, trying to act like you didn’t have a million questions running through your head.

Alexia seemed warmer and less tense. She gave you a familiar comforting smile and something about it just put you at ease. It felt like her way of comforting you that everything was okay. You responded with a weak smile back. 

“Morning,” you greeted her. “You got out of bed early?”

Alexia shrugged casually. “Had to get a workout in,” she explained. “You upset I left the bed without saying good morning?”

Patri chuckled softly at the question. You just gave the Catalan captain a small, tight smile and an eyebrow raise. Alexia tilted her head slightly and hummed at the response. “I’ll make it up to you then,” she said with a playful lilt to her voice  before walking over to you.

Before you could even react, Alexia was right in front of you. Her hand snaked around your waist, pulling you close as she captured your lips with hers, kissing you deeply and passionately. Your eyes widened at the sudden display of affection. It was obviously her trying to stake her claim right in front of Patri.

 Okay, so she’s still bothered, you thought to yourself.

Patri let out a dry laugh, also taken aback by the sudden blatant display of possessiveness but she didn’t say anything. After Alexia pulled away, you bit your lip and felt your cheeks flush from embarrassment.

“Uh… I’ll go make coffee now.” You said, turning at your heel to walk away from the scene quickly.

⋆˙⟡♡ “She did what?!” Jade exclaimed as you recounted to her what happened that morning. Her eyes widened and she looked incredibly scandalized. “Damn, Alexia really must be jealous of her to be doing all that in front of Patri. It’s like those Alpha Wolves or whatever when they implant on their mate or something.”

You couldn’t help but laugh at Jade’s weird reference. “I mean, it was hot but also, I just felt kinda bad for Patri.” You said. “She seemed a bit offended by it even if she hadn’t said anything.”

Jade looked at you quizzically, raising an eyebrow. “Why would you feel bad? Are you trying to tell me that you actually are considering Patri?” She asked. “Just yesterday you said that even if the date with Patri was fun, you think you were sticking with Alexia.”

You groaned, sinking into the lounge chair. “I know… but I just can’t ignore the spark I felt for Patri too. I have to consider it too cause there is something there.”

Jade let out a sigh, leaning back as she crossed her arms. “Can’t believe I’m best friends with the messiest girl in the villa,” she joked but there was a subtle tone of concern in her voice. "I'm not looking forward to reading what people online have to say about you, love."

You playfully pushed her shoulder. “Jadeeee, just help me.” You groaned. “I’m so lost right now."

“Girl, what do you want me to do? I can’t choose for you.” Your friend exclaimed, shaking her head dramatically. “I’m just saying you gotta choose quick cause I just can sense that someone is going home soon. And it could be you or one of them if you don’t choose ASAP.”

You sighed. You knew Jade was right. With Patri’s entrance, someone was bound to leave the villa soon and that decision might be left to you if the cards weren’t in your favor.

⋆˙⟡♡ Later that day, Patri pulled you aside to talk, her voice calm, but you could sense the seriousness in the tone. “I know you’re still figuring things out,” she said, leading you to the daybeds.  “But I just really want to have a chat to see where your head’s at.”

You nodded, sitting down beside her on the daybed, leaving a decent amount of space between the two of you. Patri sighed. “So, I know that you really are emotionally invested with Alexia already but… I want to know if your door is still open for me, like, do I still have a chance to get to know you and to be considered by you?”

You hesitated, taking a beat to think. Before you could respond, Patri spoke up again. “Hey, I know we kissed andhit it off already the other day but if you’ve made up your mind and you really want to stick with Alexia, I won’t be mad,” she reached out to take your hand into hers, causing you to meet her gaze. “I’d actually prefer if you let me down now than later.”

A part of you just wanted to take the easy route, tell her that you were definitely going to stick with Alexia and that you’d appreciate being her friend. It felt like saying anything else other than that would paint you in a negative light, probably counterintuitive to the intention of your publicists to get you good press. 

But part of you just felt like taking the easy route was such a dishonest way to go. Even if PR was a main reason as to why you entered Love Island, finding love was also a big reason you agreed to it. You wanted to experience all the aspects of love and relationships, and doubt was one of them. It felt like doing yourself a disservice to just do an easy cop out.

“I haven’t…” you paused to look into Patri’s eyes. “I haven’t completely counted you out.”

A smile grew on her face. “Yeah?”

You nodded. “I mean, I’m not saying for certain that if there was a recoupling, I would choose you. I still have feelings for Alexia.” you paused. “But, I won’t not consider you. I’m still open to getting to know you.”

Patri nodded. “That’s enough for me.” 

You smiled back at the Spaniard. She reached over to you, tucking a loose strand behind your ear. “So, if you wanna test out the waters between us…” she looked into your eyes. “Can I test it out with another kiss?”

You paused, looking around to see if there were other islanders nearby but with the coast clear, you meekly nodded. It felt wrong to be cozying up to Patri like this and letting her kiss you even if it had just been a couple days since you met her when with Alexia, it felt like there was more hesitation with you at the start of your relationship. But if you wanted to fully consider both options, you had to do something to test it out. 

Patri’s hand moved to your neck, cupping it gently before pulling you in closer to her. She captured your lips with hers, slowly moving against yours. It started off gentle before it grew more passionate, more insistent. Unlike your first few kisses with Alexia, Patri’s kisses didn’t feel like butterflies or fireworks. It felt more like a warmth forming in your stomach. It was intense in a different way.

Once you pulled away from the kiss, you sighed deeply, biting your lip.

I’m in big trouble.

⋆˙⟡♡ You planned to have a sit-down dinner with Alexia later that night. Just the two of you, with no other islander around, no distractions or interruptions. You two skirted around the discussion long enough and you needed to completely clear the air with her, be honest and let all your feelings out. With the recoupling looming, it was pertinent that you discuss your own confusion and struggle but also to comfort her that even with Patri’s arrival, she was still the first person in your heart at that moment.

It was a good plan, something that could have helped you two a lot. But that plan? Officially out the window.

Just as you were preparing to pull Alexia aside for it, Jade got a text. As soon as you heard the notification sound, you knew it was too late. It was recoupling time, and you had to make up your mind quick.

⋆˙⟡♡ The group gathered by the fireplace, the flames crackling in the background as everyone stood in a loose circle, eyes darting nervously around the room. Sophie, the host, arrived with that look on her face. Before she could even say anything, you knew someone was going home.

Your stomach churned and you absentmindedly shifted from foot to foot, anxiety taking over you. Even as Sophie spoke, all of it turned into garbled nonsense in your ear; you were too caught up in your own thoughts to process it. Suddenly, Sophie was calling your name.

“Seems like Y/N’s in a daze,” You blinked, snapped out of your thoughts, and immediately felt a flush of embarrassment. You hadn’t even realized how much you’d zoned out. When you met Sophie’s eyes again, she was smiling, waiting for you to speak. “Y/N, it’s your turn to choose.”

You gulped, stepping forward, settling beside Sophie and looking back at the group. 

Immediately, you locked eyes with Alexia who gave you a weak smile. Your connection with her was undeniable; it felt solid. Even when she first walked in the villa when you were coupled with Cassie, something about her drew you in instantly. It felt like there had always been an invisible thread pulling you toward her. And the things she made you feel — butterflies, fireworks, the dizzy ecstasy you felt with her — was something you have never felt before. Her kisses felt like revelations and her touch always felt intimate, filled with a warmth and intensity that seemingly no one could ever replicate. 

Having known Alexia longer, you’ve also gotten to know her pretty well. You knew her quirks, her habits, her nuances; you’ve accepted most parts of her already. Maybe it would have been an easy choice to choose her again.

But then, your gaze shifted to Patri, standing at the other side of the group. She gave you a wider smile, visually less tense than Alexia. While you only knew Patri for a few days, there was also a spark between the two of you. While it wasn’t as intense as your initial connection with Alexia, there was something about her that made you feel at ease; it felt easier to be open to Patri, less intimidating. There was no tension with Patri. It all felt like calm waters with her.

So, maybe you were wrong and maybe Patri was the easier choice; after all, she got you to open up to her on one date in contrast to the initial pull-and-push you felt with Alexia. Coupling up with her would also give you a chance to explore that small spark, see if it’s worth it. But then that choice could come at Alexia’s expense. What if the connection with Patri was just a new type of excitement over someone new and you send Alexia home for nothing? 

Then again, what if you choose Alexia and never get a chance to know Patri? What if the spark you felt with her was worth exploring, but you wouldn’t ever know unless you took that risk?

You took a deep breath, trying to steady your racing heart. All eyes were on you now, anticipating your decision. It was a big choice to make but you knew the clock was ticking and no amount of hesitation was going to save you from having to make this decision. 

“The person I choose to couple up with is…”

a/n: aaaa! bit of a dramatic series of events, isn't it? i hope you all enjoyed reading this as much as i enjoyed writing it. i included a poll below on who you guys would choose if you were in that position. while i feel a lot of you would be picking alexia, idk maybe some of u would choose patri!

anyway, releasing the other fics in the playlist series soon so i hope you all tune in!

— @gozzi-1154 @floppy-03 @daniwhatwhat @sapphicdarlingx @dfwspky @miss-americana22 @lilibach @liloandstitchstan @tikitakatia @beeversblues @aced-of-baked @maeshoneyles @jazard7 @daniwhatwhat

[felassan]

New today from IGN: 'Dragon Age: The Veilguard's Devs Reveal New Info About Each of the Companions (and Solas and Varric, Too)'

It turns out The Veilguard really is the friends we made along the way.

Intro:

"Friendships, romantic relationships, and everything in between have always been an integral part of not just the Dragon Age series, but of BioWare in general. From Mass Effect’s Garrus Vakarian to Dragon Age’s Varric Tethras, the characters – and how they get along with the player – are inseparable from titles from the studio. But, perhaps more than any other BioWare game, Dragon Age: The Veilguard is leaning in heavily on this idea, as it’s already easy to see from the marketing material. For one, the name changed from Dragon Age: Dreadwolf back in June, with BioWare general manager Gary McKay telling us at the time that it was out of a desire to shift the focus to a “really deep and compelling group of companions.” That would be followed by a first official trailer at Summer Game Fest that put the focus squarely on seven new companions that will be tagging along with the player character, Rook, in The Veilguard. With all that in mind, it’s little surprise to hear game director Corinne Busche talk about how these companions aren’t just central to the story of The Veilguard, but the gameplay and combat as well. “Building a relationship with companions has always been a staple of Dragon Age, but this time around, that relationship translates into how well you work together as a team,” Busche tells IGN. “It is how you're actually going to level up your companions, by getting to know them better. That's how you're going to unlock skill points. So when you look at all of the various abilities the companions have, there's inherent combos and synergies and roles that they'll have on the battlefield.” She uses the example of Neve, the mysterious detective mage who has a wildly useful special ability to slow time in combat. “But if I really get the opportunity to know her,” Busche explains, “whether it's platonic or romantic, I'm going to help be able to shape her skills and augment those abilities that work really well with my own personal build, so our sense of teamwork really deepens.” During our time with the game, IGN got to see some of this in action; unsurprisingly, Dragon Age: The Veilguard has an approval/disapproval system, with pop-up text on the side of the screen indicating whether or not a companion liked what Rook just did or said. But something new in this Dragon Age: even just completing a quest with a companion in your party increases your “bond” with them, whether they agree with how you handled things or not. Your relationship, Busche says, isn’t necessarily about “how much they like you, but how well you get to know them.” “This is about a found family,” Busche tells us. “That is, they have the same goals, different complications in their life, but they're all giving everything they have to defend Thedas. You're going to get to know them really well. You're going to develop trust, understanding. That doesn't mean you're always going to agree.” But, we’ll have plenty more to say about the game systems and combat later. With Busche, we had the opportunity to really dive into the seven companions at the center of The Veilguard and what they’re all about. Here’s what she had to say about each one:"

"DAVRIN Busche: “When we were thinking about Davrin, how we were going to develop him as a character, we had to think about, 'How is he going to show up on the battlefield?' And it was unique because he has this, I guess you could say, companion of his own, the griffon Assan. That makes him, as a companion, very unique, because Assan shows up on the battlefield. So we had to think about how that integrates into his abilities, where Davrin as a Grey Warden is capable on his own, but also, when does he call upon Assan and what does that look like? What happens if you're indoors?... And indeed, when you're doing some of Davrin's content, just seeing Assan gliding through the environments, you really get a sense that they care and they're protective about each other. “…When we think about Davrin and his being the representative of the Grey Wardens within the team of The Veilguard, it was an opportunity for us to really go back to some of those roots that we know our fans, our players, deeply care about. Dragon Age: Origins, of course, was so Grey Warden-forward. We want to evoke those memories, those connections that our players have. And I absolutely love when you're journeying with Davrin, not only his aesthetic, how he carries himself as a Warden, but how he interacts with his fellow Wardens. The little wrinkle of, 'Hey, there actually are some griffons remaining in Thedas,' how he learns as a Warden to train and interact with these griffons that, to our knowledge, haven't existed for quite some time, it's a learning experience on a lost art of the Grey Wardens that is really unique to Davrin's character.”"

"HARDING Busche: “To talk about Harding as a companion, I guess I'd have to go back to Inquisition. Of course, Harding showed up. She was your scout on the field. There was a light romance with her, and I think one of the things that the team didn't quite expect is how much Harding would catch on in Inquisition. Players fell in love with her, and we heard them. They wanted a deeper romance, they wanted more engagement with Harding. So for the team, I felt like it was kind of a no-brainer for us to bring back Harding, and we also wanted to reestablish that connection to the Inquisition in the world of Thedas, which occurred 10 years ago, the events of Inquisition. “Harding serves as our proxy back to those events, and you get to learn about what's happened with the Inquisition since, so she presents some really lovely opportunities for us. I will say, personality-wise and her role on the battlefield, she is among my favorites. When you see her leap into the air, unleashing these devastating attacks with her bow and arrow, I just can't get enough of her.”"

"TAASH Busche: “Taash, in the creation of their arc, is one of our more complex characters. It's a journey along their arc that is about introspection. 'Where do I belong in the world? What are my boundaries? What do I fight for? How do I become at peace with who I am?' So I love the juxtaposition, actually, between Taash's personal journey and this imposing literal dragon slayer, that sort of hard exterior and really gentle interior. It makes Taash a really special companion for me.” (When asked which companion had the steamiest romance): “I'll just speak for me personally, but at the culmination of the romance arcs, I'd have to say Taash. When I got to that scene and saw the finished version of that cinematic, I was hollering. Hollering.”"

"EMMRICH Busche: “The thing about Emmrich that is going to surprise our fans the most is his relationship with necromancy. I really love that we kind of turned the idea of a necromancer on its head here, where you think of them as these conjurers of evil, the certain malice when you hear the term 'necromancer,' but it couldn't be farther from the truth for Emmrich. There is a reverence about the dead. He has a unique relationship with death. You get to explore how he ended up in the Mourn Watch. Death has shaped this character in all aspects of his life, and we frequently refer to him as our gentleman necromancer. I think his proper, kind nature stems from that respect that he's learned about this cycle of life and death throughout his life. “Manfred is like a son to Emmrich. He very much has an affinity for this wisp, this life force that he's given a second chance through this skeletal body, and in many ways, it's the story of a parent raising a child. Emmrich, he needs to teach Manfred and help him along to develop as a character of their own, things like learning new skills, how to assist The Veilguard. Some of our most charming moments are in dealing with Manfred, and I must say I absolutely love the interactions. They just have me rolling whenever Manfred steals the show. “…In my last playthrough, I romanced Emmrich. What I also loved is as I'm synergizing with him as we're doing combos, just having him refer to me as ‘my dear’ on the battlefield. ‘Well done, my dear!’ It just fills me with joy every time.”"

"LUCANIS Busche: “The character that went through the most changes [throughout development] without a doubt was Lucanis. Lucanis is very complex. He's an assassin. He is very skilled in the art of death. The Antivan Crows, they pursue these contracts with a certain level of dispassion, but also, Lucanis is a romantic, and he's dealing with some internal struggles. He's been through a lot of trauma. He's relearning how to trust. And all of those elements come together with a richness, but it creates a lot of complexity in how we tell that story. So I'd say Lucanis is the first one that comes to my mind in terms of the thought that's gone into it, where we've had to make adjustments to really cover all facets of his character.”"

"NEVE Busche: “Neve is our confident noir detective. I love to bring her onto the battlefield because she's just so incredibly capable. She's our ice mage, so really big on controlling the battlefield, and that's actually a good metaphor to her arc. She wants to fight for change. She wants to fight for a better Minrathous, and she's going to use all the tools at her disposal to try and reshape Minrathous into a better place for all. She's very much a Shadow Dragon. This is among the mantra of the Shadow Dragons. They operate from the shadows, fighting for a better Minrathous. So as this accomplished ice mage, she's fierce. She's not going to shy away from any challenge, whether it's taking down darkspawn or dealing with the Magisterium in Minrathous.”"

"BELLARA Busche: “Oh, my dear, sweet Bellara. I relate to Bellara a lot. She is joyous. She's been through a lot, but she remains curious, optimistic. She's kind of a geek. She really likes her fiction. She fangirls over Neve a little bit. She's just so relatable, and I think that's what our players will find and fall in love with when they get to meet Bellara, is just how much you'll recognize some of those patterns and sensibilities that she holds, but don't let it fool you. She is also a Veil Jumper. She's very comfortable in elven ruins. I frequently bring her with me in my party. I like to play rogue. I like to play the Veil Jumper, or the Veil Ranger. Bellara's a fantastic companion to set up that spec with electric vulnerabilities, so I love her both on and off the battlefield.”"

Bonus rounds:

"SOLAS Okay okay, so Solas isn’t technically one of your core companions who will travel with you, but given his place in the Dragon Age story, we still had to ask about his relationship with Rook. Here’s what Busche had to say: Busche: “Rook's relationship with Solas is a complicated one. Everyone has seen, at this point, the gameplay reveal and the opening moments of the game, so you'll know things got shaken up pretty radically for Solas already. He's trapped. He's basically communicating with you as an advisor, and I absolutely love that idea of, ‘He's your lifeline right now, but can you trust him?’ And those touch points with him, ‘Do I take his advice or not? Can he be trusted? Is he going to betray me?’ All the while giving you this information that you absolutely need in order to be successful. “It creates an interesting stage for us, where, I think our fans will agree, Solas is very complicated. He firmly believes he's doing the right thing, and some of our fans will agree that he's trying to do the right thing. Others will not, and this creates a stage for you, the player, where you get to lean into those tendencies of your own as you're taking advice from Solas throughout parts of the game. I think those really interesting debates about, ‘Was he ever redeemable? Can he be trusted? Was he wrong all along?’ You're really going to be able to dive in deep on that.”"

"VARRIC Varric, while a part of Dragon Age: The Veilguard and a series mainstay, isn’t part of your core companions either. But, as fans can see in the trailers, he’s still very much in The Veilguard, so we asked Dragon Age creative director John Epler about how he’s changed since we last saw him in Inquisition: Epler: “Since the events of Dragon Age: Inquisition, he has spent the time, just briefly, obviously, [serving as] Viscount of Kirkwall. I mean, anybody who knows much about Varric knows how well a job where he sits around and tells people what to do is going to sit with him. He has been participating in the hunt for Solas. And I think for Varric in particular, that's a very difficult thing for him to do because Solas is his friend. Solas is somebody that he grew close to over the events of Inquisition. They adventure together, they work together. “And now knowing who Solas really is, that eats at Varric. Because Varric always sees, Varric believes he can always make somebody do the right thing. Varric believes he is the most convincing, charismatic, because he cares about people. And he has this belief that as long as I get a chance to talk to Solas, I'm going to be able to turn him. But as he's seeing what Solas' ritual is doing to the world around him, as he experienced in the comics, Dragon Age: The Missing, that eats at him a little bit. That's challenging his world view of him as always being the best judge of people, being able to see that somebody is able to be redeemed. And he's starting to question a little bit, ‘am I right or am I being a fool by believing in Solas?’ ”"

[source]

[selfloverrrrrr]

hey bae , this is my first time making a req 😭🙏🏻 , so i was thinking about where y/n is a prisoner sent to an all male prison and geto/gojo is the chief security guard who works there. he is very attracted to y/n and at night he goes non con y/n

i love your fanfic btw ❤️

Prisoner~

Warnings : smut , heavy smut, unprotected sex, rough sex, Noncon, revenge, prisoner reader, chief secretary guard Gojo, physically and emotional abuse, biting, torture, size difference....

( All characters are aged up/18+)

Minors Do Not Interact

Read the warnings carefully....if you don't like my stories block me not report

Y/n's POV

This shitty people can't even investigate a case properly. First they put me in for the time crime I never did and now they're moving me to another jail?! The iron gates of Blackwood Prison creaked shut behind me, I found myself enveloped in a world dominated by rough faces and even rougher hands. I was the only woman among hundreds of convicts, a fact that made me stand out like a sore thumb.

The first few days were a blur of harsh fluorescent lights, cold meals, and the constant hum of male voices echoing through the concrete hallways. I kept my head down, learning the routines quickly - lights out at 10 PM sharp, wake-up call at 6 AM.

One evening, during dinner in the massive cafeteria, I felt eyes burning into my back. I turned slightly to see one of the guards standing against the wall. His name tag said 'Gojo'. He was tall, muscular, with an aura that demanded attention. His blue eyes seemed to follow my every movement.

As the days wore on, I started noticing Gojo everywhere. He seemed assigned to my wing more frequently than the other guards. Each time our paths crossed, his gaze lingered, a flicker of something - admiration? - passing through his steely expression before he quickly looked away.

One crisp autumn night, as the prison settled into uneasy quiet, I lay on my narrow bunk, straining to hear the faint scrape of metal against metal. Suddenly, my cell door clicked open. Gojo stood there, silhouetted against the dim hallway light, his muscular frame filling the doorway.

He stepped inside, closing the door behind him with a soft thud. His boots echoed on the cold floor as he approached my bunk. He didn't say a word, just reached out and grabbed my arm, pulling me towards him.

"what are you doing?! why are you even here?!" I asked being shocked. Gojo smirked. His grip tightened. "Easy," he said softly, his voice low and urgent. "Thought you might need...company. It's tough being the only woman here"

"what do you mean?" I asked."You know exactly what I mean," he whispered, his face inches from mine. His hand moved to my waist possessively. "Being surrounded by all these hungry eyes...you must be tired of the constant stares, the unwanted attention." He paused, his thumb tracing circles on my hipbone. "I could..."

"I could make them all disappear," Gojo murmured, leaning in closer. His breath was warm against my neck, sending shivers down my spine. "You'd be mine, and only mine. No one else would dare to look at you, let alone touch you." He desperately whispered in my ear.

"y-you should go" I said. "Should I?" Gojo chuckled. And I didn't notice when his fingers start to unbuckle my belt. "You really want me to leave you here all alone, with those little shits inmate dreaming about getting their hands on you?" He paused, his hands pausing at the button of my pants.

"w-what are you doing w-wai-" I finally realised but Gojo cut me off with a firm kiss, his lips crashing against mine. He pinned me against the bunk, his hands roaming over my body as he effortlessly pushed my pants down. I was about to protest when "Shh," he murmured against my lips. "Just let me take care of you tonight."

"N-No....leave or I'll tell the other officers" I said. Gojo pulled back slightly, his eyes dark with desire. "Go ahead," he said confidently, his hand sliding into my underwear. "Who do you think they'll believe? The quiet little prisoner or the chief security guard?" He started to caress me slowly.

And I couldn't reply. I was silent. "Exactly," Gojo whispered, his fingers exploring further as he hooked his legs around mine to keep me from kicking him off. "Now, be a good girl and stay quiet," he warned, his other hand reaching up to cover my mouth. "Or I'll have to gag you..."

"please leave me I don't want this." I begged. Gojo's smirk widened. "Too good for a criminal's touch?" He pulled his hands away suddenly, his voice harsh. "Maybe I should make you scream instead. Give the guys out there what they've all been dreaming of." He unbuckled his belt threateningly. "Answer me honestly - do you want this or not?"

"I don't.... P-Please" I said. His expression softened slightly at the plea, but his hand remained on his belt. "You're making the wrong choice," he said softly, leaning in close. "You don't know those men they're ready to get their hands on you any time they want. Just for pleasure" His fingers traced my neck possessively. "I don't want you just for pleasure.... I want you permanently....all mine" he whispered.

Fear grabbed me by my neck. I couldn't even think anything when suddenly he kissed me again. He deepened the kiss forcefully, his tongue invading my mouth as he pressed his body against mine. His hands released my wrists to roam my body again, gripping and squeezing roughly. He only broke the kiss to start unbuttoning his shirt with one hand, the other still holding my head in place.

he took off his shirt and threw it on the floor. Gojo leaned down to capture my mouth again, his bare chest pressing against mine as he pinned me beneath him. His calloused hands explored my body roughly, leaving red marks in their wake. He broke the kiss again to nip and suck at my neck, marking me possessively.

Then he tore off my shirt. I wasn't wearing any bra. "You're fucking hotttt," he muttered, eyes darkening as he took in my exposed body. His rough hands traced my curves before moving to my breasts, squeezing and kneading. He lowered his head to capture one nipple in his mouth, sucking hard while his fingers pinched the other.

"P-Please stop" I begged. "Too late for that," Gojo muttered, releasing my nipple with a pop. He raised his head to look at me, taking in my scared expression and half-naked body. He grabbed my pants and pulled it down with my panties. "Spread your legs," he ordered softly, his voice lower than before.

I didn't do anything. I was too scared. Gojo growled in frustration as I refused to comply. His eyes narrowed dangerously. "I said, spread your fucking legs," he repeated, more forcefully this time. With lightning speed, he grabbed both my thighs and forcibly pushed them apart, settling himself between them.

I cried out. He unbuckled his belt and pants with one hand, kicking them off his legs. He was left in just his boxers, the bulge prominent. He hooked his arms under my knees, pulling my legs up and back, exposing me completely.

Gojo shoved his boxers down, freeing his rigid cock. Without hesitation, he thrust forward, brutally piercing into my pussy. He groaned loudly, not caring if the entire jail heard my screams. "Fuck, so tight..." he grunted, starting to pump into me violently.

Gojo reached between my legs to rub my clit roughly, the stimulation making my cries even more desperate. He fucked me mercilessly, his cock pounding into my pussy like a jackhammer.I was through my legs with pain and begging him to stop. And he liked it so much. His thrust became harder and harder.

I clenched around him tightly and he moaned loudly " ughhhhhh....ahhh s-so...ahhhh....so f-fucking tight " he started rubbing my clit with his thumb and I bite his shoulder scratched his back to control myself. With a few more thrust I came. He was still thrusting roughly. I felt his cock pulsing inside me. I tried to push him away with all of my strength." Ughh...no no no no...ahhhhhh... I don't want this ..." I moaned. Suddenly I felt his teeth gazing at my neck. "No no no d-don't please don't Mark me please " I cried out. He just ignored my please and bite my neck harshly. I dig my nails more deeper into his back as he Marked me. He continued thrusting. Within a minute he came inside me I could feel his seed inside me. He pulled out. He was panting.

He sits on the floor. The sound of his panting filled the room. Suddenly he started laughing. "I've heard you're in jail for a crime you didn't even. And you also don't have any family to help you.... and also I've heard that you are going out of jail this year. Don't worry darling, I know how to make you permanently MINE" He said darkly.

Give me your requests guys....

I love when you give me your requests 💕

[whumping-in-the-dark]

~Fun Things To do With Your Whumpee~

CW: dehumanization, general cw for torture, manipulation, drugging, etc etc

So, just got a new whumpee? Or maybe you're looking for ways to engage with an old one? Either way, some of these may prove useful to you :)

Don't do any of these irl. I'm watching you >:(

If you consider yourself a 'nice' intimate whumper~

1. Good ol' freezing the shit out of your darling whumpee so that they cling onto you for some warmth :)

2. No? How about sensory deprivation? If you use it the right way they'll be putty in your arms in no time :)

3. Some good isolation works wonders too! Pair that with starvation, thirst, heat/cold, etc and you've got yourself a treat :)

4. Maybe your whumpee is just oh so stubborn :( but that's nothing a nice little drug dosage (or about nine) can't fix :)

5. Finally, if nothing else works :( just beat them up and then treat their wounds. Show them that YOU are the only source of comfort in their silly little life! It's a little more time consuming than others but frankly more long-lasting too :)

6. Here's a bonus round- paralysis! tie them up and watch a movie together! gags gags gags!! for all the back talking you'd hate for them to do! tattoo your name onto them! brand your initials onto them! and soo much more!!

OR

If you consider yourself a more stoic whumper~

1. Either keep them on a strict schedule or no schedule at all, whichever is more convenient for you :)

2. Force them to do your house chores and then punish them for not doing them properly (yay!) :)

3. Force them to pick their own punishments or maybe pick out how many of X they will have to endure! If they go too easy on themselves just punish them more :)

4. Force them to clean up all of the blood and gore once you're done torturing them. After all they are the ones who made that mess in the first place :)

5. Force them to address you respectfully, thank you after every torture session, give verbal answers each time, etc :)

6. Here's another bonus round- hose them down instead of giving them a shower! keep the naked or half-naked all times! NEVER use their name! collars collars collars!! Bonus points if they are shock collars with 'slave' tags! And soo much more!!

OR

If you consider yourself to be a pure let's torture the shit out of this whumpee kinda whumper... well~

HEY

WAIT

:0

MAJOR

torture and gore tw for this one~

it's the last one so skip it if you'd like~

1. Make sure they KNOW the consequences of their actions- do you pour hot glass/wax/etc into their ear for not listening to you? do you burn their tongue for talking back? or sew their eyes shut for glaring at you? :)

2. Track every torture session you put them through to find ways to slowly drag it out and increase their tolerance. After all, do they really deserve to faint when you're having so much fun with them? :)

3. Force feed them at all times or feed them icky liquids or pastes or maybe cut open their stomach and directly force food in through a tube? :)

4. Rub salt into their wounds! Pour alcohol over their wounds! Press into every little welt and twist your fingers into those cuts! :)

5. What? Still bored? Just pierce any body part of theirs you'd like and hook them up to the ceiling with that! do they get to stand on their toes? You choose that :)

6. A bonus round for y'all too ofc- manhandle them around by their hair! film their torture sessions to show them off to them later! pictures pictures pictures!! cages cages cages!! Torture their loved ones in front of them! Or force them to torture their loved ones! And soo much more!!

Feel free to suggest any additions :)

[storiesfromafan]

Insane - Benny x Reader

A/N: I had some fun with this one haha. Though I feel like I should have done it differently...oh well 😅

Prompt/s: "Not you again"

"Don't look at me like that, I'm trying to be serious right now"

Previous: Drinks, Persistent

Tag list: @strayrockette

You thought Benny was persistent, but now you thought he was just insane! After following you last night, constantly telling you to get on his bike and he'd take you home, which you ignored. You made it home with your shadow in tow. Once out front of your house, you turned and walked up the path to the porch of your house. Not once looking back, even when you heard the engine cut out.

Stepping up the few stairs and moving to unlock the front door, you stepped inside before turning around to close it. Pausing for a moment, you looked out into the street. The sight of Benny sitting upon his bike, watching you made you roll your eyes before shutting and locking the door. Not a second thought for the Vandal.

Neither of your parents were awake when you got home, which was good. You didn't want your mother interrogating you about your date. Let alone trying to come up with a white lie about why you had walked home, or explain the Vandal that was out the front. Shuffling up stairs you cleaned up, got ready for bed and finally got under the covers. Not long after sleep took over.

Though it was easy to fall asleep, it didn't seem to last. Waking up at four in the morning, you got up and went to the bathroom. Upon returning to your bedroom, for some unknown reason you looked out the window. And to your shock, and horror, none other then Benny Cross was across the street, leaning against his bike. You looked to the clock on your beside table, which told you it was almost four-thirty. You'd gotten home around ten-thirty. He'd been out there for almost six hours!

You groaned. “Not you again!”

Now fully awake, fear running through you at what your father would do if he saw Benny, you grabbed your robe and hastily put it on. Once secured and some shoes on your feet, you flew out of your room, down the stairs and across the lounge room to the front door. As quietly as you could, you unlocked the door and opened it. Stepping onto the porch, you closed the door just as quietly.

Silently you moved down the porch stairs and down the path. With what you hoped was a stern look upon your face, you crossed the street and come to stand before Benny with your hands on your hips. He had watched you since you left the house. Casually taking a drag of his cigarette and releasing the smoke a few times. When you stopped before him, did he flick it off to the side, before getting comfortable in his spot. Enjoying the attempt at a stern look on your beautiful face.

“What are you doing?!” You asked with a sharp edge, yet keeping your voice down. “If my parents – especially my father – see's you, they'll loose it!”

Benny smirked, yet remained quiet. Enjoying how frazzled you were.

“You have to leave, now!” You said, casting a look back to your house and then around you both. “Seriously Benny, you have to go!”

Still ignoring your words, he cast a look up and down. Taking in your robe clad form and messy bed hair. A sight that he was truly was enjoying, even thinking about what could be under that robe.

“Have to say, I like ya dresses” he began, bringing his gaze back to your face. “But I think I like this look so much more".

You were shocked, and then flustered by Benny's words. Which was not even on the same topic as you. The way he was looking at you, a heated gaze, eyes smouldering. Damn this man and his infernal gaze. It was twisting your stomach and making it hard to think.

“Don't look at me like that, I'm trying to be serious right now” you managed to get out without a stutter. “You have to get out of here, now Benny!”

“And what if I don’t?” He challenged, smirk crossing his lips as he made himself even more comfortable on his bike.

A noise of frustration left your lips. “You have gotta be kidding me" you said out loud. “Why must you be so insufferable!?”

Yet again Benny remained quiet, enjoying the show you were putting on for him. You continued to tell him to leave, even pleading him too. But he never said a word or moved. Guess its true that payback was a bitch.

“What will it take to get you to leave!?” You stressed, glaring daggers at the man before you.

Than a sly smile formed on his lips, instantly you regretted your words. For you had a feeling you knew what Benny was about to say. And you wanted to kick yourself.

“Go for a ride with me" was Benny's reply.

“E-excuse me?” You half croaked. A little surprised by his request, as it wasn’t what you thought he'd say.

Standing up to his full height, Benny looked down at you, blue eyes holding your gaze. “Go for a ride with me...” – he looked down at your attire once more – “not right now, but later today".

You were floored. And a little surprised. Out of all the things he could have requested, it was to go on a ride with him. What happened to making you his? Was this some kind of trick? And so you voiced these thoughts, which made him chuckle.

“Princess, I know after a ride with me, you'll change ya tune and you'll be beginnin' to be mine", and he winked.

There it was. The cocky Vandal from the bar. You rolled your eyes. “Sure I will”.

A triumphant smile crossed his face. “So, ya agree to go on a ride with me?”

You stepped back. “If it means I get you out of here before my parents wake; yeah. I guess I am".

With that you turned around and headed back to your house. But once you reached your side of the road you turned around and told him to pick me up from around the corner at midday. You didn't wait for a response before going back inside. As you quietly closed and locked the door, you heard the bike's engine roar to life. Resting against the closed door, you smiled softly as he heard Benny take off down your street.

So you have to go on a ride with Benny. It was just a little ride. It wouldn't mean anything, would it?

[lurkingshan]

Knock Knock Boys: The Unexpected Delight of the Summer Season

Who would have thought that this little under appreciated pulp would come in and steal the Thai BL summer season with so many bigger, shinier, more expensive shows on air? Not me! But here we are, and Knock Knock Boys is going down as one of my unexpected favorites of 2024.

I liked this show from the start, with its premise of four men, each dealing with various Life Situations, coming to live together in a shared home and developing natural friendships and romantic attachments. Each episode begins with a cold open that puts us squarely in the middle of their latest shenanigan and then we jump back to work our way there over the course of the episode. The writing is clever, the directing and editing is zippy and fun, and the whole thing is founded on queer and sex positive themes. I expected it to be a sexy, comedic romp with a sprinkle of mystery as we learned more each week about what these boys were running from.

And it is that, sometimes. But it is also a surprisingly touching story of queer friendship and finding yourself and your tribe and building courage to live an authentic life with the support of your loved ones. It's a story about making the effort to understand and giving each other space to figure ourselves out. It's a story about the importance of communication and giving others a chance to come through for you. It’s a story about how true friendship and patience and empathy can empower someone to change their life.

And it's also a touching romance, times two. Latte and Almond were the favorites all the way through for most of us watching, and seeing them go from friends to something more to proper boyfriends was so lovely. What I loved most about their arc together is how gently it advanced; despite Latte starting the show as our resident sexually experienced pansexual, he was also clear that sex and relationships are meaningful to him, and we saw that in how he pursued Almond with utmost patience. Almond was completely inexperienced and fixated on another guy when they met, and Latte was his genuine friend in helping him sort through his feelings and move on from Jumper before he was a prospective love interest. When Almond became more aware of the attraction between them and they began dating, it all felt natural, as did the progression of their physical intimacy. They are precious and their relationship has such a strong foundation that it's easy to believe they'll stay together long term.

Perhaps most surprising to me is how much I ended up loving the Peak and Thanwa romance, as well. Peak's journey, and the way it ultimately landed, is what sent this show into the stratosphere, and it's where that theme about patience that I mentioned above comes through most strongly. For much of their story, Peak and Thanwa were caught in a frustrating cycle of constantly misunderstanding each other, and it was mostly down to Peak's failure to communicate about his family situation and the way it was restricting him. These two kept missing beats, refusing to talk, and hurting each other because they just couldn't get it together to clear the air, and that can be hard to watch episode to episode. But once we have the full picture, Peak's behavior becomes understandable, both to Thanwa and to us, and we can only join his friends in rooting for him and giving him strength to be brave. And he was, in one of the most satisfying and heartwarming scenes I've seen in bl this year.

I just can't recommend this show highly enough, and I've kept things somewhat vague above because I hope more of you will watch it now that it's over and available for a binge. This show is not perfect, but it's so heartfelt and you will be rewarded in the end. You can find the show on Gaga and the small but mighty crew of us regular viewers screaming about it every week in the tag. You don't want to miss it!

[fowlfics]

TBHX AO3 Collection

Hi there! Have you written a story or posted some other kind of work for TBHX fandom on AO3? Are you also impatiently awaiting the moment the tag gets canonized so that you could sort and filter the works to your preferences?

I've already sent a message to AO3 support, but while they canonized another fandom I've also mentioned in that message, they hadn't gotten around to TBHX just yet.

In the meantime, I have created a collection to work around the limitations of an uncategorized fandom tag!

It's called "TBHX for filtering until we're canonical" and it's open; You can add your works to it by going Edit Work > Associations > Post to Collections/Challenges > "tbhx" - if you have any issues with that but still want your work in the collection, let me know and I'll invite it in from my end!

For readers: feel free to use it to find stories to read and art to engage with! You can Sort by all usual criteria; You can use the "More Options" filters (Crossovers, Completion Status, Word Count, Date Updated, Language). While the Character, Relationship and Fandom-related tags aren't filterable (since they're not canonical yet either) you can put names in the "Search Within Results" field, and it should help narrow down the works you want to see!

Under the cut there's a list of currently used tags for easy copy-paste (going by the majority use amongst the currently-posted 40 works or wrangling guidelines); If you write TBHX stories, please consider using those to try and match until we get official tags!

Fandom: 凸变英雄X | To Be Hero X

Characters (the letter used for alphabetising for tag wrangling purposes is highlighted):

Ahu (To Be Hero X) - Big Johnny (To Be Hero X) - Dragon Boy (To Be Hero X) - Enlighter (To Be Hero X) - E-Soul (To Be Hero X) - Lin Ling | Nice (To Be Hero X) - Little Johnny (To Be Hero X) - Loli (To Be Hero X) - Lucky Cyan (To Be Hero X) - Miss J (To Be Hero X) - Moon (To Be Hero X) - Mo Sha | Ghostblade (To Be Hero X) - Original Nice (To Be Hero X) - Queen (To Be Hero X) - Wreck (To Be Hero X) - X (To Be Hero X)

Relationships: (these don't go strictly by the usage but rather by the wrangling guidelines: characters listed in alphabetical order by the name before the pipe [|] and generally following the rules listed here)

Dragon Boy & Lin Ling | Nice (To Be Hero X)

Dragon Boy & Lucky Cyan (To Be Hero X)

Enlighter/Lin Ling | Nice (To Be Hero X)

Lin Ling | Nice & Moon (To Be Hero X)

Lin Ling | Nice & Original Nice (To Be Hero X)

Lin Ling | Nice & X (To Be Hero X)

Lin Ling | Nice/Moon (To Be Hero X)

Lin Ling | Nice/Original Nice (To Be Hero X)

Moon & Original Nice (To Be Hero X)

Moon/Original Nice (To Be Hero X)

Original Nice & Wreck (To Be Hero X)

Original Nice/Wreck (To Be Hero X)

For any other relationships: Remember that they go in alphabetical order, with the fandom disambiguation at the end. It won't really matter once the tag wranglers get the fandom tags sorted bc then they'll link any variations to the canonical tag, but the consistency might be worth it in the meantime.

And just for fun, here's a list of some common freeforms:

Lin Ling | Nice Needs A Break (To Be Hero X) - Lin Ling | Nice Needs A Hug (To Be Hero X) - Mo Sha Needs a Hug (To Be Hero X) - Moon Deserved Better (To Be Hero X) - Moon Needs A Hug (To Be Hero X) - Nice Needs a Break (To Be Hero X) - Nice Needs a Hug (To Be Hero X) - Big Johnny Can Purr (To Be Hero X) - Dragon Boy Being Dragon Boy (To Be Hero X) - Hero Tower (To Be Hero X) - Insecure Nice (To Be Hero X) - Little Johnny Is A Ray Of Sunshine (To Be Hero X) - Nice Lives (To Be Hero X) - Top Ten As Found Family (To Be Hero X) - POV Lin Ling | Nice (To Be Hero X) - POV The Enlighter (To Be Hero X) - POV Wreck (To Be Hero X)

And some funnier in-tag commentary xD :

The classic: No beta we die like OG Nice did. RIP king you were there for 3 minutes

On canon divergence: Because we didn't even get to canon before it diverged - but there's no canon and the divergence is me making it the fuck up - We barely even have a canon and I'm uncomplying with it

On the Doomed Yaoi: Haolin needs to stop dooming my ships, Is it gay to save someone from suicide?, these gays needs to get out of my head, Wreck is a Wreck, wreck yearning kills me

The iconic: Freeing oneself from capitalism, FUCK TREEMAN, rip twink 4/5/25-4/5/25, the inherent catastrophy that is becoming a hero

And of course the plight that connects us all: I hope tbhx will get it's own tags soon😔, Written before Tag Canonization

Anycase: of course no one needs to use those tags or add works to the collection. We'll get canonized sooner or later and it won't matter then (but my friend did have to wait half a year for that to happen, hence why I bothered with that initiative). And also this is the intersection of my three major interests: AO3 tags, spreadsheet data manipulation and TBHX, so I'm using the non-canonical tag status as an excuse to yap about it xD

[quinnnfabrgay-writes]

what it means to burn

This is my (incredibly and abhorrently late) entry for the Summer Lovin Challenge! My prompt was heat wave along with this AMAZING mood board! Thank you so, so much for putting this on @pedgito (and for being so incredibly patient)

pairing: dieter bravo x actress!reader

summary: There are many different ways to burn. People warn against getting sunburned amidst the suns cruel rays. Others are told it's in the afterlife where they'll feel hells wrath and burning flames. But burning desire that fills your body, floods your system, clouds your mind... what on earth are you supposed to do with that?

wc: 4.8k

tags/warnings: not much, some good ol' pining-esque angst (and some tooth-rotting fluff for funsies), Dieter is an idiot - but that's why we love him, i know nothing of film sets so there's that too

reader description: reader is described as having breasts and there is gendered language, otherwise nothing else about reader is described, no use of y/n

a/n: yeah, so this is almost exactly 6 months late, i am SO so sorry. i feel like i've been so stuck creatively this year. BUT here it is. at first I had no idea where I wanted to go with this, but then my wife and I binged all of Bridgerton in two weeks and I have that to blame for how some of this turned out. i also tried to really lean into the heatwave aspect of it 🫣 MAJOR shoutout to @bitchesuntitled for reading this over when i was losing my mind, i am so incredibly grateful

divider credit: @saradika-graphics

Your toes dig into the sand beneath your feet, each grain tickling your nerves - a much needed distraction you welcome. A bead of sweat trickles down your forehead, your body's desperate attempt at keeping you cool as you approach your third hour in this dreadful, sweltering heat. Your fingers twitch, fighting the automatic urge to wipe it away - the last thing you need is to give the director, Jared, another reason to call “cut” for the umpteenth time. 

What was supposed to be a “quick and easy” take of the scene in which Dieter’s character has a heat-induced fever dream of your character scantily clad in an oasis, has now become a whole cluster fuck. 

Dieter was almost an hour late to set - his reasons being missed alarms, traffic, every excuse under the sun really, but that was the least of your frustrations. Once everyone was finally in place and ready to start shooting, wardrobe mishaps galore. 

They originally wanted to have you in a gauzy, deep cut dress, golden ropes tied around your waist to complement your figure. But between the combination of the heat and your sweat, the dress tape meant to keep the cloth adhered to your breasts kept slipping off your skin multiple times, resulting in multiple nip slips that had the wardrobe department ushering you back into the trailers for an emergency costume change.

But perhaps the most annoying circumstance of all has to be the sheer amount of times Jared has had the two of you film and re-film the part in the scene in which Dieter’s character finally confesses his feelings for your character- or the mirage of your character to be exact. 

Picture it: Dieter’s character is lost in the desert, he’s been walking for days and nights looking for reprieve when he stumbles upon a beautiful oasis that’s too good to be true. Because it is. It’s simply a mirage used as a catalyst for Dieter’s character to come to terms with his romantic feelings. He’s supposed to come upon the oasis to find you lounging by the pool of a waterfall, dipping your toes in the water before approaching him, lavishing him with attention. Light sultry touches from you, flirty quips back and forth before devolving into a confession of love from him, all culminating into an almost kiss. Dieter is meant to lean in, your lips almost touching before his character wakes from his fever dream with a new determination to get back home and confess his feelings to the real life version of your character.

Which wouldn’t be an issue if it weren’t for the director finding a new problem almost every take. 

The first few takes were issues with your wardrobe. The next few, he wanted to try different starting positions: you by the pool of the waterfall, then you lounging on a moss covered rock, finally he settled on you wading out of the pool of the waterfall, the water making your skin sparkle and glisten under the cruel sun. 

A change you gladly welcomed the first one or two times you had filmed trying the new starting point, the water helping cool you down as the heat of the sun kept beating down on everyone. But soon enough even the water wasn’t enough of a reprieve, because then Jared had an issue with yours and Dieters chemistry. 

Or lack thereof. 

He couldn’t really blame the two of you though. At this point you were tired, sweltering, hungry, and so so cranky. Dieter wasn’t faring any better, you could tell he was two takes away from throwing a temper tantrum like a petulant child, and to be honest you weren’t too far behind him. The last thing on your mind was trying to convince the cameras of any romantic inclinations. 

Although, if you were being honest with yourself, it really shouldn’t be that hard, it’s not like you would be acting at all. This isn’t the first movie or project where you’ve led opposite Dieter Bravo, and even though you’ve tried your damnedest to do the complete opposite, you have found yourself falling more and more for the handsome goofball with each passing day. 

He was one of the first of the bigger names to show you kindness in your earlier roles; even took you under his wing as it were to warn you about the creeps to stay away from, to tell you the little tips and tricks of the trade, he even offered to run lines with you for auditions from time to time. 

His party-going ways and eccentricities were enough to keep your feelings at bay for a while, but as the two of you grew closer, and you got to see more of the real Dieter, it became more and more difficult to deny that you had indeed fallen for the one and only Dieter Bravo. And you had fallen hard. 

And if that doesn’t just piss you off.

“Oh for the love of Christ- cut cut cut!”

You and Dieter both huff and groan, you drop your head into your hands as Dieter slumps his shoulders in frustration. You feel like you could scream, your anger and frustration building to the point of tears gathering in your eyes. 

“What is the matter with you two?!” Jared's voice becomes louder as his steps grow closer to the two of you. 

You're just about to let him have it (deservedly so), but luckily Dieter pipes up before you can say something that might deem you “difficult to work with.”

“I don't know Jared, it could be a number of things. This goddamn heat being at the top of the shit list.”

You bite the corner of your lip to keep yourself from laughing, reigning your expression into a slight amused smirk instead as you watch Dieter and Jared go back and forth, mentally checking yourself out of the conversation until you hear Jared let out a dramatic sigh, running his hands through his hair before closing his eyes and pinching the bridge of his nose in thought. 

“Okay, I get it. I really do. I know I've been impatient myself, this heat really is getting the best of all of us I suspect.” He drops his hand, opens his eyes, and glances back and forth between you and Dieter as he pleads his case.

“Just one more take, please? Just the speech Dieter gives, that's all we need. You two are almost there, it just doesn't feel… right yet. There's an underlying sense of animosity that I can't pinpoint, but that's what is holding you two up. Just take a couple of deep breaths and let go. Give us everything you got, okay? Really, you two are ridiculously talented, I specifically requested you two for a reason. If there's any hesitation, just let it go. And let everything else be fuel for the fire. Use your frustrations and channel them into your character's desire for each other, okay?”

Tears prick the corners of your eyes. You know his speech was pointed towards you, there's no way it wasn't, but he was good about making it seem like it was a pep talk for the both of you.

You nod your head, blinking quickly to clear the moisture in your eyes before any tear drops could fall. 

“Y-yeah, thanks Jared.” You reach your hand out to squeeze one of his forearms, a quiet show of appreciation.

Dieter rubs the back of his neck as he nods once in agreement, his lips pursed in thought. 

Jared gives you two an unreadable look before speaking again. “From the top then, yeah? Just one more time.” He claps his hands, swiftly turning around and back to his chair as he orders everyone else back into their places.

Dieter lets out a long, drawn out sigh before turning towards you, an eyebrow quirked and a half smile sweet enough to wash away your irritation.

He briefly looks back over to Jared before shouting “can we have a moment?”

Jared simply slumps in his chair, waving his hand exasperated in a manner signaling “go on.”

Your brows furrow; what could he possibly need to talk about that can't wait until you've at least been able to scarf down the snacks in the shared trailer, enjoying its glorious AC?

He swiftly turns towards you, stepping forward and closing the small gap between you two until you are practically toe to toe with one another.

You draw in a quick, sharp breath as he reaches both of his hands out grabbing your own. Such a simple touch, yet paired with the sheer closeness he's created, it's enough to set your skin on fire where the two of you are connected. Or maybe it's just the heat finally pulling you into an exhausted haze and warming your skin to the touch. That had to be it, there's no way this means anything.

“Mírame, por favor.”

Dieter’s voice raspy from the dry heat, yet it's still smooth as silk to your ears. You acquiesce, slowly raising your eyes to meet his gaze.

The look on his face could easily bring anyone to their knees. The molten pools of his dark brown eyes draw you in, begging you to dip your toe in. A false sense of security washes over you as you believe that little voice in the back of your head saying “it's safe, the water's fine,” as if the tide of his gaze won't pull you under at the first chance you'd let it.

You could dive in head first into the deep inky waves, letting them pull you further and further down - not once feeling panicked or afraid even as the darkness spreads around the corners of your vision, finally feeling at peace. Finally giving up your resistance, letting him finally drown and consume you…

You're shaken from this image, your mind coming back into reality, dropping back into your body when Dieter squeezes your hands in his. The deep baritone of his voice floating through your ears like a choir of angels when he utters “estrella.”

“Y-yes?”

“I- um, I just–” Dieter cuts himself off with a huff, casting his eyes down and you're pretty sure you hear him mutter fuck under his breath. He slowly shakes his head, a self deprecating tone weaved into his voice. “I'm terrible at this.”

“Dieter, what're you ta–”

His head swings back up quickly. “I'm sorry.”

You jerk your head back slightly, completely caught off guard. He looks so determined, his eyes flickering back and forth between your own. He squeezes your hands again, takes a deep breath, and continues. 

“I'm- I'm sorry. For today, for the million takes, for being late. All of it.”

He pauses long enough, you go to tell him it's fine, but he shakes his head, beating you to it. “No, I'm– fuck. Look, I know why Jared feels like there's some underlying animosity.”

You shuffle slightly, dropping your gaze to his feet, suddenly uncomfortable with the turn this conversation has taken.

“But what I'm trying to say is, I get it. You have every right to want to rip my head off right now. I know me being late really screwed up the schedule, and- and, I don't know. I just wanted you to know that I get it, and I really, truly am sorry. It was incredibly unprofessional.”

You brave looking back up at him. A pang runs through your heart at how genuine he looks. You have to bite the corner of your lip to distract yourself from the tears that want to well up, hoping you can keep them at bay.

“Thank you, Dieter. I really appreciate it.” A small, soft smile stretches your lips, meaning every word.

A small smile spreads across Dieter’s lips, mirroring your own. 

“I- um, I just couldn't sleep.”

“...huh?”

“Why I was late. I really did miss all of my alarms this morning. I was up most of the night, too nervous to sleep.”

Your brows and lips wrench up in confusion. “Nervous?”

“Yeah, I know it sounds ridiculous. I mean this isn't the first romantic drama we've shot together or anything. I just really want to nail this scene. I want to be the scene partner you deserve. I really believe this could be the project that gets you nominated.”

“Oh, Dieter, th-thats's… that's getting a little ahead–”

“No, I'm serious. You deserve this. How can you become an EGOT winner without the Oscar? Huh?” He's full on grinning at you, those brown eyes sparkling with mischief. 

You huff a chuckle out, shaking your head. “Dee, please. That was just a silly childhood dream.”

“No, it’s not, and you know it.”

He dips his head slightly, trying to get you to meet his eyes. Once you do, his face softens. A small, adoring smile graces his features. 

“You deserve it more than anyone I know.” He drops one of your hands to softly cup your chin, his thumb brushing across your skin. “Mi estrella brillante.”

Your stomach drops as you try to remind yourself it’s nothing more than a friendly gesture. But Dieter apparently wasn't finished tormenting your lovesick soul. Before you have time to comprehend what's happening, he leans forward and drops his lips to your forehead, your chin still in his hand.

It had to have been only a brief few seconds, but to you that moment was frozen in time.

His devastatingly soft and pouty lips have your skin tingling, goosebumps forming along your arms, and all he has done is kiss you on the forehead, possibly one of the most innocent kisses two people could share, and yet your knees threaten to buckle as if he was worshiping your body underneath his tongue. 

God, you needed to get out of this heat.

Dieter pulls back and must notice something's amiss. His face falls slightly, his eyes searching your own as he says your name.

“Hey, is everything alright?”

Your eyes flutter as you shake your head to try and rid yourself of this spell he's put you under.

“H-huh? Oh y-yeah. I think the heat is finally getting to me.”

“Alright you two,” Jared's voice further coaxing you out of your stupor, “let's wrap this up so we can all go home, yeah?”

If logic was accessible in this moment, you could easily remind yourself that this isn't him talking to you like this. It's all for the movie, nothing more.

Unfortunately, that's not the case, all logic flew out the window the moment his lips touched your skin. You have no doubt in your mind that you're looking at Dieter like he hung the moon– which works for the scene, but were you really acting? 

It's hard to think of anything else beyond the feeling of his soft lips on your forehead, the reverent way he looked at you while cradling your chin in the palm of his hand, softly muttering, “mi estrella brillante.”

Mi estrella brillante.

You slowly flick your eyes back and forth between his, wondering if anyone has ever told him he has the most painfully beautiful eyes. So expressive, so captivating. 

Many a time you have gotten lost in studying his micro expressions - one of the many reasons you fell for him honestly. The amount of emotion this man can portray in one glance, a simple lift of his brow, a slight tilt of his head or subtle frown - it was mesmerizing. He's mesmerizing. 

His hand finds your cheek, the wide breadth of his palm practically encompassing the side of your face in its entirety. 

In an instant it all becomes too much - the pounding in your ears, the shallow breaths you're struggling to take in, the haze forming around the edges of your vision. Your gaze drops to his lips. His irresistibly tempting lips, still moving, still reciting his lines, but the words remain a mystery to your overheated state of being.

The way the velvet plush of them unwittingly beckons you closer and closer. And suddenly it all becomes so clear to you.

This fiery all consuming heat, this overwhelming longing that has been ignited and seized your entire being, has nothing to do with the hours spent in the burning sun.

This aching, this burning, it's all coming from within you.

A burning desire all for one Dieter Bravo.

In hindsight, you were probably also dehydrated, but in this moment the only thing you want to drink in, the only thing you crave, is the taste of Dieter's tongue sliding against your own, to feel his lips mold perfectly around yours. The very thought of him pulling your body against his, close enough where you wouldn't know for certain where your breath began and his ended.

It's this thought alone that has you acting like you've finally snapped and lost your damn mind, maybe you have.

Dieter’s still in the middle of his monologue when you suddenly clutch the front of his billowy shirt in your fists, a soft breathy whine slipping past your lips, your gaze locked onto your plump pillowy prize. You see his lips frown slightly, pursed as he starts forming a question, but you can't wait one second more. You shake your head, silently asking him to not speak, to not disturb whatever stars or planets that had aligned to make this moment possible. 

You gently pull on his shirt, bringing his body closer to yours as you angle your chin up, brushing your lips against his. Your eyelids flutter closed before you quietly whisper your simple request, “Stop talking and kiss me.”

Every worry, each little annoyance you encountered throughout the day all fades away to nothing the moment Dieter tenderly presses his lips to yours. His palm moves from your face, gently sweeping down the skin of your arm, goosebumps forming under his touch; an unexpected shiver shocking your system amidst the unrelenting heat.

He continues his path until his hand finds the small of your back, the pads of his fingertips stroking the skin bared from the exposed back of your costume. He gently pulls your body flush against his as he wraps his other hand around the nape of your neck, further enveloping you in his embrace. 

The warmth of his body against your own should be the very last thing you crave in this unforgiving and blistering heat, your dress starting to soak through with your sweat, yet somehow his touch is exactly what you need. His touch like a balm to your nerves; his caress the only source of reprieve you desire.

You let go of the white knuckle grip you have on his shirt, immediately tracing the edges and curves of his body as your palms chart a path towards his hair. Your fingers twisting into his curls greedily, not even caring to pay any mind to the slick of the sweat drenching his tresses.

Your heart clenches when you swipe your tongue past your lips to find his tongue peeking out as well, the both of you in sync as you deepen the kiss. You can't control the small whimper you make at the sound of Dieter softly groaning as your tongue slides against his for the first time.

His iron grip around your body tightens even further; you swear your body could melt against his from the sheer heat shared between the two of you.

The heat so all consuming it's flooded your senses, spread through your veins, and now sets your skin alight. Dieter is flint and wood, and you are the spark that sets the whole thing ablaze. 

Every pass of his tongue, every tug of his hair, each shared breath between you two only serves to feed and fan the flames; the heat of them licking at your skin, growing ever higher and higher until you and Dieter are one giant shimmering inferno.

But even roaring fires turn to ash eventually. 

“And cut!”

Jared’s voice cuts through your trance, jolting you out of Dieter’s embrace. You immediately take a step back, giving yourself space to fully assess and absorb what you’ve just done. 

Dieter’s hands hang aimlessly by his side now that you’re no longer wrapped around him, his chest heaving as he catches his breath, his lips swollen and slick from your kiss, his eyes wide and wild, glowing like the last few golden embers that refuse to be smothered into smoke.

You find the will to tear your eyes away from him and brave a glance at the crew around you. Some looks of shock come into view, some of annoyance, but nothing is as unnerving as the stoic look upon Jared’s face.

Your nerves quickly take hold, a chill running down your spine and spreading through your limbs as you slowly back further away from Dieter.

“I-I’m so sorry. I don’t- I…”

You quickly turn, gathering the skirt of your dress in your hands and move swiftly to the trailers, head hung in embarrassment.

What have you done? 

A rush of frigid air greets you as you fling open the nearest trailer door, too wrapped up in your distress to pay any mind to where it is you’re actually going.

It’s only when the door slams shut behind you that you finally take notice of your surroundings - a table littered with script pages, all strewn about with red and blue ink scrawled in the margins; a green robe haphazardly draped across the back of a chair; various bottles of water scattered across all in varying degrees of fullness, not one of them fully empty.

Dieter’s trailer. Of fucking course.

Even in a moment where you need some space to distance yourself from this school girl crush, you still can’t escape him. Whether you like it or not, you’re inherently drawn to him - even just a space that he’s inhabited has enough magnetic pull to draw you in. 

And it’s so fucking frustrating.

You’re just about to let out a much needed scream when you hear the door whip open behind you, the sound of it clicking shut only seconds later after the unwelcome guest makes their way inside.

Well, technically you’re the unwelcome guest.

You bury your face in your hands, not ready to face what’s coming next. You don’t even second guess who it was that followed you in, it was inevitable that he would come running after you - always looking after you, never once giving you a moment to breathe. The sun itself no longer the source of heat that threatens to smother you.  Even the chilling AC isn’t enough to temper the rising fury of your admittedly misplaced anger. If only he would give you just one minute to wrap your head around the situation you have placed yourself in.

The heat of Dieter’s body radiates off him in waves as you hear him shuffle closer to you, the exposed skin of your back already starting to dampen with newly formed beads of sweat. The feel of his hand coming to rest on your hip burns as if he is made of fire himself, a quiet “Estrella,” mumbled close to your ear. You drop your hands from your face in defeat, closing your eyes to muster whatever strength you have left, and push his hand off of your body. 

“Dieter, please, don’t.”

He lets his hand fall away from you, but you still feel his presence as he stays put behind you.

“I don’t understand, did I- did I do something wrong?” 

You slowly shake your head, still not ready to turn around, still not ready to confront this head on.

“It's just… it's jus-”

Fuck, it really is now or never, isn’t it?

You can tell Dieter is starting to get just as frustrated as you have been all day, a childish exasperated huff tickles your skin before the cracks in his composure start to show. In any other moment, you might have the patience and wherewithal to sympathize and agree that his day has been just as shitty as yours, but at your wits end? Well that’s no place for compassion or sensitivity, now is it.

“It's just what? Spit it out alre-”

You whip around facing him, feeling like the embodiment of a steaming kettle finally blowing its top, ready to let its contents boil and bubble over. 

“You frustrate the living daylights out of me, Dieter!”

He takes a step back, shock written all over his face, obviously not expecting this outburst of anger from you. His eyes narrow as he crosses his arms in a show of defense.

“Yeah, and? I piss a lot of people off. Where is this even coming from, I thought we were coo-”

“Oh please, we are well past you merely pissing me off. You have completely turned my world on its axis! You have single handedly complicated and confused everything I thought I knew about myself! You're so infuriating - with your stupid reservations over anything bluetooth-”

“Not stupid, the EMF waves mess with your brain-”

“-your complete and utter inability to care for or respect anyone's time but your own. Your obsession with alien probing?! What is that? If aliens are real, you really think out of everyone on this planet, that they would choose you to beam up into their ship just to what? Study you?”

“It's not an obsession! It's a reasonable and  completely rational fear and respect for aliens. And no, not study me… I'm afraid they'll impregnate me, okay?”

You stare at him blankly, silence filling the air. Dieter’s face is so… genuine. His eyebrows downturned in distress, those deep brown eyes of his widened slightly in legitimate fear. If it weren’t for the circumstances or the subject matter of your current conversation, you would almost feel bad for him, almost wanting to close the distance and caress his face, easing his worries.

But his worries were… ridiculous. 

It starts out small; a quirk in your brow, the corners of your mouth twitching as you let out an amused huff in disbelief. It tickles your insides, the sheer absurdness the turn this conversation has taken.

It quickly takes over, growing into giggles you try to contain behind your hands, but then Dieter’s face cracks - his own expression twisting in mirth as the two of you erupt into fits of laughter.

A few seconds pass as you both fight to reign it in until silence takes hold again. But this time, it's not as suffocating, it's… nice.

You softly smile at him as he returns the gesture, cautiously taking a step forward into your space, Dieter’s hands finding their home cupping your face, his thumbs gently caressing your cheeks. You can see the internal battle waging behind his eyes, no doubt trying to figure out what to say in an attempt to not set you off again.

You give him some much deserved grace, bringing your own hands up to wrap around his wrists, feeling his pulse beating rapidly below your fingertips. You take a shallow breath before attempting to apologize, but yet again Dieter beats you to the punch.

“I won't pretend to know what's running through that brilliant mind of yours, but if I've done anything to upset you…” his gaze quickly drops to your lips before flicking back up to meet your eyes, “... I'm sorry.”

“No, no you really don't meed to apologize Dieter, I… fuck.”

You snap your eyes shut, afraid to see the inevitable look of pity. You can't look him in the eyes when you say it. Brilliant my ass, more like a fucking coward.

“I'm just so embarrassed, that was so unprofessional and I know everybody is pissed that I messed up yet another take and I just… I couldn't deny it any longer. And I'm so sorry I took you by surprise like that, it was completely uncalled for and mmfph-”

Dieters lips come crashing down on your own, silencing your babbling. Your hold on his wrists tighten as you immediately match his fervor, not caring that you're already struggling to take a breath, his is the only oxygen you need at this moment. Before you can get too lost in the kiss, he breaks it off, resting his forehead against yours while you both try to regain your breath.

He nuzzles your nose before smirking, “there, now we're even.”

A surprised and delighted giggle escapes your lips, holding onto his wrists even tighter, filing away every second of this that you can before the moment is over. But Dieter was always full of surprises.

“And if you'll let me, I'd very much like to do that again. Maybe later, after dinner?”

You can’t stop the goofy grin spreading across your face as you respond.

“I think we could work something out.”

Thank you to anyone who reads this, comments and reblogs are never expected, but always appreciated. I'm just happy there's someone out there who might enjoy the things I have to say ❤️

tagging some Dieter moots (no pressure to read or reblog obvi): @sp00kymulderr @perotovar @covetyou @chronically-ghosted @yopossum @whatsnewalycat @kedsandtubesocks @whocaresstillthelouvre @pedrostories @beefrobeefcal @seventeenpins @ozarkthedog @pedrit0-pascalit0

[kaibutsushidousha]

Another Danganronpa linguistics-based post that has been about as long overdue as the name study post is the post about the language nuances of Fujisaki's unusual gender situation. I'm genuinely surprised I never got a direct question about this, even when the Danganronpa Translation Critique tag was still active, but one post about the subject in this site and a conversation about it elsewhere (read: a place where can easily copypaste my own explanations from) inspired me to finally put this one out. This used to be a heated topic a decade ago, so there's probably too many disclaimers to be made with this one, so assume I made every one you need to read this study in good faith. Thank you.

I guess I need to start with a general explanation of first-person pronouns. I imagine a lot of people know this part already since it's an omnipresent aspect of the language, but it never hurts to review the basics. Japanese has multiple first-person pronouns instead of the single "I" English has. A person's choice of pronoun informs things about their gender, age, social status, and relationship to the person they're speaking to. In theory, there are maybe over 40. In practice, there are only 3, maybe 6 depending on your standards for what counts as "commonly seen". In modern Japanese, most pronouns are things you only find in fiction.

The three genuinely common first-person pronouns are the traditionally masculine boku and ore, and the gender-neutral watashi. Watashi can be easily mistaken for feminine since that's what women default to in every situation due to the lack of other options, but it's a truly neutral formal pronoun that men are using all the time in professional situations. It's especially relevant here that watashi is not inherently feminine in any way.

Now to the relevant question. What pronoun Fujisaki uses for himself? The answer is boku, a markedly masculine pronoun, the same our male protagonist uses. This can be seen in Mondo's flashback with him, in the scenes contained his inner thoughts, the bonus mode/game scenes that have his secret revealed, and if that counts, how Alter-Ego talks as him.

Fujisaki's boku is a traditionally masculine pronoun, so he obviously didn't use it before the reveal. It's easy to spot this and call it a pronoun switch. These kinds of pronoun switches are a very common language trick and come in all sorts of circumstances in other stories, but Fujisaki's case becomes a lot more intriguing when you verify what it was changed from.

The expected answer is watashi. It's the perfectly gender-neutral pronoun, but it's a pronoun women use far more commonly than any feminine-specific pronouns. It's a perfect fit for the disguise and it's very easy to honestly say Fujisaki has no reason to feel any dysphoria using watashi as a man. It's something his male peers are expected to do when talking to teachers and that they'll need to do in their jobs as adults. But Fujisaki never says watashi before or after the reveals.

The actual answer is none. Fujisaki omits pronouns in every line of dialogue he has alive. Omitting pronouns is a completely normal part of dialogue in Japanese, so doing it 100% of the time is not something people normally do, but it is something you can get away with in Japanese without raising many eyebrows.

This 24/7 pronoun omission has always been a fascinating dialogue quirk to me because in my 12 years consuming stuff as a Japanese student and translator, this is something that I've never seen done before or after, and something no translation of DR1 could convey properly in English. It's a truly unique case as far as I'm aware.

Makes this gimmick work requires an extra level of attention and sometimes getting creative with phrasing, both in Kodaka writing out-of-universe and in Fujisaki speaking in-universe. Genuine work was put into making Fujisaki fiercely refusing to refer to himself with anything less than a fully masculine pronoun, no matter how much he felt "undeserving" of his gender.

Anyway, that's pretty much all on the side of Fujisaki's own self-expression. The question I'm mostly copypasting my own answer from was "which characters used which gender expressions in chapter 2" and I yapped about Fujisaki's own answer because that's the special and unique description trick that frequently occupies my mind, but I guess I'll drop the answer here as well.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

The first point to be relevant is that many characters, including our PoV Naegi, use the honorifics san for the girls and kun for the boys. Naegi is the first to address Fujisaki after the reveal and he sticks to the san he always used. This continues even after the flashbacks give the full context of Fujimaru's situation.

Next, Celes mentions Fujisaki as "Fujisaki... kun", taking a big pause to indicate intent on the pronoun switch and attention to the habits she's trying to unlearn. Kirigiri, Geno, and Ishimaru also refer to Fujisaki in unambiguously masculine terms before Oowada reveals any of Fujisaki's perspectives on the matter. The rest don't say anything gendered, which is easy to do because Japanese is a really easy language to be gender-neutral on (this says a lot about the choices of the characters who did pick gendered words, perhaps).

How Oowada and Junko (Monokuma) address gender is discussed directly in the trial so I don't think I need to cover it here. They're also the only ones with full context during the trial, so it's not comparable to the 4 above deciding Fujisaki's gender based on fragmentary information.

And the last relevant new factor is Alter-Ego, who refers to its creator as "Goshujin-tama", aside from regularly using he/him. Goshujin-sama used by servants to address the specifically male lords they work for. As maids became a staple anime trope, you probably heard this one coming from a fetishized maid character. The reason why I'm specifying this is that Alter-Ego calls Fujisaki "Goshujin-tama" instead of "Goshujin-sama". The "honorific" tan is a variation of the classic honorific san, used primarily by otaku to address their anime waifus. The -tama there is a -sama equivalent of that. The blatant implication there is that Fujisaki designed his subservient digital clone to be attracted to him, which is categorically weird. That's another character element that the localization doesn't bother trying to convey, opting for a mostly sanitized "Master" as Alter-Ego's title of choice of Chihiro.

Then the next game has AI Nanami referring both to Fujisaki as her father and Alter-Ego as her brother, and I'm closing the post here because I'd rather not to think about how that makes Alter-Ego's title of choice weirder.

[thisapplepielife]

Written for the @corrodedcoffinfest May Mayhem Bingo event.

That's The Rule

Prompt: Nice Guy Who Only Hates You | Word Count: 1025 | Rating: T | CW: Mentions of Bullying | POV: Goodie | Relationship(s): Goodie & Jeff, Jeff & Goodie & Eddie | Tags: Pre S4, Time Skips, Classmates, Trying to Make Friends Is Hard, Reading is Easy

This is a companion to my entry for the Childhood Enemies prompt fill.

Kindergarten

Jeff Williams likes everyone, everyone except for him.

Goodie doesn't understand. Going to school has been hard. They call him Charles. He doesn't like what they have for lunch. They make them sit and color. Honestly, he'd rather go back home.

Goodie wants to read.

The mean teacher says he's not ready. That the class isn't ready. That reading comes later in the year.

That's not Goodie's fault. Just 'cause they are babies that can't read, doesn't mean he can't.

So, Goodie hides the best crayons. The unbroken ones. The new ones. All the green ones so Jeff can't color his grass.

If Jeff needs a green crayon, he'll have to ask Goodie for one. Then Goodie will be the hero for having one to share.

But he never asks.

And so Goodie gets meaner and meaner. Lashing out. Taunting him. That's the only thing he knows to do. He thought they could be friends.

If not, they'll be enemies. 

That's the rule, he thinks.

Third Grade

Jeff Williams likes everyone, everyone except for him.

Sitting in the beanbag that reminds him of the one from home, Goodie reads his book. He likes to read. His favorite day of the month is when they get the form to order books. His mom sits at the dining room table with him and helps him make his choices. Gives him money to put in his little envelope to turn into Mrs. Franklin.

He loves books.

Goodie finally saw the book fair was getting set up in the library. He was impatient for it show up. He'd looked in the library every time he'd walked by it, and finally it's here. He asks when the class can go look at the books. Ms. Franklin says she doesn't know, and to quit asking. That she'll tell the whole class as soon as she knows.

That he needs to be patient. That there are plenty of books to read in the classroom library right now.

He knows. He spends all his free time over in that corner. The other kids sometimes make fun of him, but he doesn't care. 

Reading is fun. You can go all kinds of places in a book. 

Jeff likes to read, too. 

Goodie would share his books if Jeff would just ask.

Jeff doesn't ask.

So, Goodie hides the books Jeff wants to read, loudly spoiling the endings. He makes the girls run, tattling to Ms. Franklin like they always do. Big babies. He didn't want to be friends with Jeff anyway. He didn't want to be friends with any of them. They don't even call him by his right name.

Goodie has plenty of friends. They just don't go to this school. They live in Canada. 

That's what he tells them, anyway.

When they get to go to the book fair, they can only look, not buy. Tomorrow they can buy, if they bring money. This is just to look and see what they might want.

Goodie sees several books he wants, and for some of them they only have three copies. For the whole school.

It makes him nervous. He really wants those books.

So, he moves books around. Hiding copies for himself. Stuffing them behind books definitely nobody will want. So they'll still be there for him to buy tomorrow.

Jeff is judging him. Looking like he might tell Ms. Franklin that Goodie is messing up the carts.

He better not tattle, or Goodie will be really mad.

Seventh Grade

Jeff Williams likes everyone, everyone except for him.

New year, new school, and he finally convinced his mom he can ride the bus. Kids do it all the time. She's just overprotective. It's embarrassing. 

He sits at the bus stop reading his book and sees Jeff lurking off to the side from the corner of his eye, keeping his distance, like Goodie might bite.

Goodie doesn't understand. He's never been that mean to him. Jeff's just sensitive. Never wanting to make anyone mad.

He doesn't get it. Goodie kind of loves to make people mad. It's fun.

Jeff's staring, trying to see what he's reading. Goodie can tell.

"Dungeons & Dragons," Goodie tells him, and once they're on the bus, Goodie digs into his backpack and pulls out the first book. Jeff would probably like it. If he does, they could totally play a campaign together.

He sets the book on Jeff's seat, and smiles when Jeff picks it up and looks it over.

"Read it. Let me know what you think," he says. "If you like it, maybe we could have our own campaign."

Watching Jeff thumb through it, Goodie feels hopeful. Maybe middle school won't be so bad after all.

Ninth Grade

Jeff Williams likes everyone, everyone except for him.

Eddie Munson. 

That makes sense, though. Because Eddie's a terror. He has a bad reputation, and they've heard all about him. It makes Goodie feel a little better that he wasn't the only one that couldn't win over perpetually nice Jeff. 

Right now, Jeff's holding a flyer for Eddie's D&D club, and Goodie is regretting pointing it out. They don't want to join anything Eddie's running. They'll regret it. He just knows it.

"Maybe we should go. Just see what it's like. If we hate it, if he's an asshole, we can just leave, right?" 

Goodie thinks this is a bad idea. A really, really bad idea. But he relents.

If Jeff wants to go, they can go.

Eddie Munson is stomping around the drama room, ranting and raving about his vision for this club, giving his detailed thoughts about the campaigns he could run, and Goodie hates that he's falling for it. But it does sound fun. 

Eddie has good ideas. Big ideas. But good ones.

And he hasn't called Goodie by Charles once, didn't even blink at his name, just kept yapping.

Goodie appreciates that. He does.

Jeff looks over at him, to see how he feels, and Goodie's sure it's obvious that he's being suckered into this. He smiles at Jeff, and Jeff smiles back.

Jeff likes everyone, including Eddie Munson.

Goodie might like him, too.

And if you want to write your own, or see more entries in this pop-up, check out @corrodedcoffinfest to see other entries for the May Mayhem Bingo Event!

Notes: Goodie Goodwin, you were born too early. You'd have loved Reading Rainbow. Take a look, it's in a book.

And I didn't realize Scholastic Book Club started in 1948! I loved getting those, and the Troll Book Club flyers, as a kid.

[cleolinda]

Weekend links, April 13, 2025

This week has been a hundred years long. Apparently I posted the fourth Silent Hill 2 commentary only 5 days ago, and I am already—well, rewind. The fourth video and its recaps are up, plus an extra video and a sidebar post. It's our first foray into the Otherworld and it ends with me managing to get past Pyramid Head (one does not "defeat" Pyramid Head) in two tries. Also, a beautifully staged scene with Angela, kingfisher mythology, and moth math. 

Unfortunately: OBS has decided to hate me personally and it currently records my gameplay like we're in an earthquake—not the cinematics, mind you! The cinematics look fine!—and I don't know why and I don't know how to make it stop. I have a list of potential fixes I am basically at the end of, and I will now be looking into Free Easy Recording Software That Isn't OBS in hopes of moving on with my life. As such, I don't think there's any way I can get my own commentary recorded in time to stay in step with Ian's stream this week, so I'm just gonna do a writeup of a recording that only exists in my own head. I've wanted SO BAD to get to this part of the game (please refer to picture here), I have a lot to say about it, and I do have screenshots. I'm just gonna TELL YOU WHAT HAPPENS, I GUESS.  

ANYWAY HERE'S SOME LINKSPAM

Reblogs of interest

Tumblr may or may not go down for real this time:

"If Tumblr dies, where will you go?"

How to download a backup of your Tumblr

"dreamwidth makes me feel like a baby. did you guys use to blog like this" I'm still there, Gandalf. (I need to resume crossposting there, though.)

"Tumblr yes a place for investors money put money in Tumblr can trust Tumblr user for giveing good legiticmatecy."

-

To all who celebrate:

Happy Leland Melvin Day!

Happy National Unicorn Day!

Happy [Next] Bandcamp Friday is on May 2nd, 2025, on which the money you spend goes 100% to the artist.

-

No, for real, "Madison" as a girl's name basically does come from the movie Splash.

"there aren’t enough posts going around about the swedish cryptid known as the skvader which is a rabbit with pheasant wings and also a very good boy."

On believing (or not) in fairies, duendes, trolls, and ghosts

An unexpected amount of Gritty this week

"No copypasta has ever ruined my life as comprehensively as Hell Fuck Castle."

Pretty sure I've reblogged this before, and I'll probably reblog it again: "One thing most people don’t realize about Gazebos is how bloodthirsty they used to be until the 1930s or so."

"As a scribe I see fit to write down all my troubles"

"Introducing Margie! A cat-goose dragon based on this little fella from this medieval manuscript"

"May I gift you: pineapple dragon?"

For all the Animorphs fans

Stories of seeing Muppets as people

"the lichen knowledge iceberg i have constructed on request"

Wait... people don't have "an intact chronological memory of life prior to age 12"?

David Lynch sure had one.

"i like to call this fate Death 2. Death 2 is the scariest thing that can happen to a person."

"poob is gonna call you. now poob is just gonna call you."

This week, it was fuckenwimdy.

Two posts that start off deep and sad and end up deep and wholesome. 

Video

Babysitting but literal (it's cats, they'll be fine)

Irish Tesco worker nails church acoustics in work stairwell

“Binary Sunset” from Star Wars, also in a stairwell

"Truly, the world is a better place for having skilled people who are willing to use their skills in the pursuit of incredible silliness."

The sacred texts

I deem this post about celebrities getting all their clothes tailored to be a Sacred Text because it has stuck with me for a very long time.

An old favorite: a compilation of "[band] sounds like [hilarity]" posts.

"Roses are red, April is grey. But in a few weeks, it's gonna be..." 

Personal tag of the week

Videos my dog did not like, a tag I've never used before but two nickels, etc. 

[terrortwinunicorn]

Tag List: @eringobragh420 @magicalbuttertarts @madhatterbri @keekee-23 @loki69zowens @caramara3 @bloodlinesbabe93 @miss-kuki-nz @surdelcielo

Remember if you want to be tagged please comment comment.

Truth Or Dare

Damian's POV

Y/N had an idea for a fun game of Truth or Dare at my birthday party. So here we are sitting in my living room with friends getting ready to play truth or dare.

"Okay. Here are the rules if you don't want to do the truth or dare you take a shot," said y/n as she sat next to Demi Bennett-Adams aka Rhea Ripley "Okay. Fair?" Everyone nods "So who goes first?"

"I think the birthday boy should go first," smirks Demi.

"I thought he'd go last after all it is his birthday. Let him wait," said y/n.

"I can go first. I don't have a problem with that," I said.

"Are you sure?" asked y/n.

"I'm game y/n. Shoot," I said.

"Naw. The best friend does not give the truth or dare challenge," said Demi "Y/N will go easy and give Luis something easy to do or some softball truth question."

"I won't give Luis a softball question or some easy dare," said y/n.

"Nice try," said Dominik Gutierrez with a laugh "I think we should write the names of everyone here and when it's our turn we draw a name."

"I think that's smart," said Ettore Ewen aka Big E "And we can't give a softball question or easy dare."

Y/N and I both glanced at each other and I shrugged "It's fair," said y/n she went to my office and grabbed paper and pens "Okay everyone. Rip off a piece of paper and grab a pen. You write your name and put it in this bowl," she grabbed an empty bowl from the table and put it on the coffee table. So we all wrote our names on a ripped piece of paper and threw it into the bowl "Obviously if you draw your own name then you draw again. Now everyone has a shot?" We all held up a shot glass with whiskey "Then let's play."

After a few rounds some people took shots, some took truth and a few took dare. But now it was y/n's turn. She reached into the bowl and drew.

"Ettore," she said.

"Okay. Y/N. Truth or Dare?" he said.

"Dare," she said.

"Okay," he smirks as he stood and grabbed y/n's hand before pulling her up and grabbed my wrist and he yanks me up. We have to quickly fall in step with him. He held us with one hand opening my hall closet door. He shoved us both in and shut the door "My dare is you two have to play seven minutes in heaven."

"Ettore!" said y/n stomping her foot "You're suppose to give me the option of taking the dare or taking a shot!" she tried to open the door but can't turn the handle "ETTORE! OPEN THE FUCKING DOOR!"

"Nope!" he laughed and we heard him sit against it.

Y/N began to panic and I knew it was because she was claustrophobic so she was having a panic attack.

"Y/N," I said touching her shoulder and she turned to me the small light bulb cast shadows across her face to me she looked so pretty in the pale light. She looked so pretty to me all the time. Truth of the matter is I have a massive crush on her and was kinda happy Ettore made us do this "At least he didn't shove you in here with Fergal."

She giggles "That's true. He is annoying," she said as she loved picking on him as they had become close friends and that's how their relationship dynamic worked out.

"I heard that!" shouted Fergal on the other side of the door.

Y/N and I looked at each other and laughed as we both sat in the closet.

"I'm sorry you got roped into this," she said laying her head on my shoulder.

I kissed the top of her head "If it had to be anyone I am glad it was you," I said. She moved her head and looked at me.

"Right back at you," she said kissing my cheek. I smiled at her and she blushed slightly turning away from me "You have a great smile Luis."

"As do you y/n," I said with a smile. She smiled back at me.

"So how long do you think they'll keep us in here?" she asked as she laid her head back on my shoulder.

"Who knows," I said as I took her hand and laced our fingers "But at least we have each other."

"Yeah," she said hugging my arm "Especially since you're my best friend."

I chuckled lightly to hide my heart hurting at the words best friend I wanted it to be so much more and she had no idea how much I wanted to add boyfriend to that.

"You're my best friend too," I said giving her a side hug.

"Maybe if we whisper," she drops her voice "Maybe they will think they won and we are making out."

"Or I could actually just kiss you," I said out loud and immediately cursed myself.

She leaned away from me "Say what?" she asked.

"I could just actually kiss you," I said.

She blinks at me "Okay," she said and I couldn't believe my ears. My heart thudded against my chest before I leaned in and kissed her lips. It took her mere seconds for her to return the kiss. She wrapped her arms around my neck and I wrapped my arms around her waist pulling her close. Our hands roam each other's bodies. It was like the fourth of July going off in my head and chest.

I broke the kiss and our eyes met "Y/N. I-" I swallow hard "I like you."

"I like you too," she said.

I shook my head and licked my lips. They still tasted like her "No. I don't think you understand. I mean," I looked at her "I don't just like you as a friend. I-I y/n. I am in love with you. I always have been in love with you. I just," she stopped me by putting a finger to my lips.

"I'm in love with you too," she said. My eyes opened wide as I looked at her.

"What?" I said with her finger still on my lips.

She laughed lightly as tears fell down her cheeks "I, y/n y/l/n am in love with you, Luis Martinez," she said smiling at me.

I laughed as my own tears flowed. I grabbed her and kissed her. Holding her close as she wrapped her arms around my neck. She positioned herself between my legs and we stood without breaking the kiss. I lifted her off her feet and she wrapped her legs around my waist as I leaned against the door and before either one of us knew what was happening. The door opened and we came falling out of the closet never breaking the kiss until we hear our friends cheer.

"FINALLY!!!!!!" said Demi as she high fived Ettore "E you're a genius!"

We all looked up at our friends "And now you all can leave," I said before grabbing y/n around the waist and looked at her "Except you. You stay," I said as we both got up "Bye," I start moving all our friends towards my front door "You can go. Shoo," as everyone is laughing and making kissy noises. I shut the door in their faces before turning to y/n "And now where were we?" I asked.

"Mm. Right about here," she said leaping into my arms and connecting our lips as I walked to my sofa.

I broke the kiss "Y/N?" I said as she rested her forehead against mine.

"Hmm?" she said as her green eyes met mine.

"Be my girlfriend," I said.

"I'm will. Always," she said as she held my face and smiled "I love you Luis."

"I love you too y/n," I said.

I have never been so grateful for Truth or Dare and Seven Minutes In Heaven. Y/N and I finally admitted to one another our feelings and now we have nothing to hide. She was mine and I was hers. I would thank Ettore later for doing what he did but right now. I wanted to show my appreciation to my new girlfriend.

[myveryownfanfiction]

18+ MINORS AND THOSE WITHOUT AGE IN BIO DNI

tags: @illiana-mystery, @iobsessoverfictionalmen

warnings: swearing

AN: Happy 53rd birthday Winona Ryder!

I glanced over at Lydia as she looked out the window. A small pile of things were already on the front lawn. She sighed before turning back to the model.

"Are you sure you want to get rid of it?" I asked, setting down the chair that had been in the corner of the room. Lydia looked over at me.

"I don't want to but I think it's time." She sighed. "Adam spent so much time on it. It's a time capsule at this point. But HE keeps coming and invading it. Hard to hold onto the good memories when that thing keeps popping out." I walked over and wrapped my arms around her.

"But surely there's more good than bad with it?" I said, leaning my head against hers. "I mean didn't Adam and Barbra mean a lot to you? This is one of the last things that you have from them."

"You're right." Lydia sighed, turning her head to look at me. "You're right." She kissed me softly before pulling away. "I just need to figure out how to keep him out." She picked up the book on the windowsill. "When we fly back to Los Angeles I'll read this. Figure something out." I nodded before picking the chair up again. I took it outside and added it to the pile.

"Anything else going down?" I called as I climbed up to the attic.

"No." Lydia called back. "But if we're staying here the next couple of days, we might as well decorate."

"Huh?" I said, pausing when I saw her pulling boxes out of the corner.

"Halloween decorations." She said with a smile. "Relax. Not Delia's. Adam and Barbra. Sure they're old and cheesy but..." She shrugged, looking through the box.

"That should be fun." I agreed, walking over and pulling out a string of bats. "And with the way Delia designed the house, it should be easy to do all this ourselves. Haven't done that in a while." Lydia nodded with a smile.

"Too bad Astrid couldn't be here to help." Lydia sighed. "I think she'd enjoy it." I snorted.

"Enjoy it? After what happened last time she was in this house?" I laughed. "Don't get me wrong, I know there's a lot of good memories here but how the fuck can you come back here year after year to maintain it and clean it out? After everything that happened to you here?" Lydia paused, holding a ghost close to her chest.

"Like you said, a lot of good memories." She said. "Adam and Barbra. Dad and Delia. Believe it or not, there's memories with Astrid here." Lydia looked around as I climbed onto the windowsill to hang the bats to the roof. She watched me with a careful eye. "He was a small part of it. Scared me for life sure. But I'll never forget watching Adam work on the model. Or Barbra trying to wallpaper the attic." Lydia laughed. "Or Delia arguing with thin air about colors to paint the living room." I turned to look at her as I climbed down. "I always had to intervene to let her know what Barbra was saying. The look on her face when she realized they were looking at the same paint swatch was always funny." She shrugged.

"Sounds like a fun place to grow up." I said, reaching into the box to see what else was there. Lydia nodded.

"It was." She said. "Let's put this stuff up." I nodded and picked up the box, carrying it down to the main floor of the house. "And maybe I can find a way to contact Delia and Dad. Who knows. It would be nice to spend Halloween with them again." I put the box down on a table and hugged Lydia when she had done the same.

"That would be nice." I said, brushing some hair off her face. "I'd love to meet them." Lydia kissed me softly.

"They'll love you." She assured me. Pulling away, she started to dig through the box to start decorating with a smile.

[justmystyles]

With this Ring

read my other work here!

pairing: Harry Styles x plus size reader

word count: 1.1k

summary: Harry takes his commitment to you to a new level.

a/n: watching everyone go nuts over that tattoo reminded me of a Harry head canon that i've been sitting on, and i felt like this would be a great time to put it out there. this story takes place in the NYIML timeline, but that story is so far from a wedding, so they'll get their proper wedding eventually. just act surprised when this happens again at some point, eventually.

tags: @allthelovehes @ameerakane20 @ash-craze @bethanysnow @blue-ballad @blueraspberryreader @brightlightsinlife @creativelyeva @cute-as-ducks420 @deannaard @fanficismydrug @gem1712 @golden-hoax @gothmingguk @groovychaosavenue @hillzrry @iceebabies @indierockgirrl @jerseygirlinca @jng4kook @jooniesbabie @kaverichauhan @laurxn-robinson @lexiecamposv @mrs-anna-styles211994 @n0vaj3an @potterheadandsherlocked @rach2699 @ravenclawdirectioner @stylesfeverr @superchrystaldrug @tenaciousperfectionunknown @tiaamberxx @thechaoticjoy @theekyliepage @walkingintheheartbreaksatellite @youknowwhaaat

You study Harry’s expression as he examines the selection of rings in front of him. He doesn’t seem particularly taken by any of them, and you’re pretty sure you know why. 

In just a few weeks, you and Harry are finally getting married. A quiet celebration with your closest family and friends at your villa in Italy. Today, you were selecting your wedding bands. Yours was an easy choice, you selected a simple, understated white gold band that complimented your engagement ring perfectly. Harry however, was having a more difficult time making a decision.

Harry already had an extensive collection of rings. A large gold ‘H’ usually occupies his left ring finger, but he was looking at simple gold bands to replace it, for you. You knew he would never complain, or say anything to you about it, but you were sure that a part of him wasn't thrilled about the change. 

“Harry?” You get his attention when the jeweler steps out back to grab some more options. Your fiance looks up at you and hums in response. “You don’t have to get a wedding ring, you know.” 

Harry furrows his brow. “What do you mean? We’re getting married, of course I do.” He reaches out, placing his hand over yours. 

“You already have a ring for that finger. Besides, you don’t need to wear a piece of jewelry to prove that you're mine. It’s an antiquated tradition.” You shrug.

“Ha!” Harry’s hands quickly covered his mouth at the bark of laughter that escaped him. “Sorry,” he said sheepishly. “Baby, I’ve never seen someone plan a more traditional wedding, and now you’re telling me that one of the main components is antiquated?” 

“I just want you to be happy, and I feel like one of these boring basic bands wouldn’t do that.” 

“Princess,” he takes your face in his hands, looking deep into your eyes. “You make me happy, and I can’t wait to be your husband and show the whole world I belong to you. If I could tattoo ‘property of Y/N’ across my forehead without looking completely insane, I would do it in a heartbeat.” He pulled your face to his, as the two of you kissed, it was as if a lightbulb went off in his head. He knew the perfect solution. 

***

“I now pronounce you man and wife, you may kiss the bride.” The officiant announced as Harry pulled you into him, dropping his lips down to meet yours in a passionate kiss as your friends and family cheered. 

“Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you, for the first time ever, Mister and Misses Harry Styles!” The two of you turned, facing the crowd, Harry raising your joined hands in the air victoriously as you made your way down the aisle with the italian sunset setting the most romantic backdrop you could have possibly dreamed of. 

The two of you stepped back into your villa, Harry tugging your arm and pressing you against the wall. “My wife,” he sighed happily before crashing his lips against yours. He pulled back, resting his hand on the side of your neck, brushing your cheek with his thumb. “My beautiful wife. I love you so much.” 

“I love you too, husband.” You giggle, pulling his left hand to your mouth and kissing the simple gold band that now adorned his left ring finger. “Are you sure you’re okay with this?” You asked. He gave you a mischievous smirk, and you furrowed your brow. “What?” 

“I may have had an idea after our talk at the jewelry store.” He chuckled at your curious expression. “Come with me, Mrs. Styles.” 

He took you by the hand and led you to the bridal suite area. When you stepped inside, there was a table, wrapped in plastic with a chair on either side, and a large man setting up supplies. 

“Harry?” You asked curiously. 

He smiled at you, kissing the wrinkle that formed between your eyebrows. “I thought about what you said, about how I already had rings, and you didn’t want me to have to give them up. I figured out a way that I could have both. I’m going to have your name tattooed around my ring finger.” He announced proudly. “That way, I have my wedding ring on all the time, even if I’m wearing my H.” 

Your eyes start to water as you take in his words. He studies your face, worry creeping into his expression. “Are you… is that okay?”

You throw yourself into his arms, burying your face in the crook of his neck. “Baby, that’s amazing. Are you sure? A tattoo is a forever thing.” 

Harry chuckles, pulling you back so he can look you in the eyes. “So are we, princess. Remember like five minutes ago when we got married?” He wiped a stray tear off your cheek. 

“Yeah of course,” you say with a light laugh.

“C’mon,” he tugs on your hand and brings you over to the table. “I want my wife with me while I do this.” 

He takes a seat at the table, pulling you onto his lap as he lays his left hand onto the table. The tattoo artist confirms that Harry is ready before dipping the tattoo pen in the ink and begins to write your name in small letters across Harry’s finger as your wedding photographer takes pictures, her assistant shooting a video of the moment. Your eyes travel from Harry’s face to the work being done on his finger. His eyes meet yours and he puckers his lips, you lean in to kiss him softly. 

“Are you… does it hurt? It seems like that would be a painful spot.” 

“Nothing hurts with you by my side.” He smiled, placing a soft kiss on your shoulder. 

“Ugh,” you groaned. “So corny. But I guess I can let it slide today. I mean, you are getting my name permanently etched on your body.” 

“My wife is so merciful,” he said, his thumb absentmindedly running across your hip. 

After a few more minutes, the tattoo was finished and Harry held his left hand up to admire the work. You grasped his wrist and moved it in front of your face. “Hmm… that’s not how you spell my name.”

“What?!” Harry pulled his hand out of your grip and held it up close to his eyes. “Wait, yes it is.” 

“I know, I was just messing with you.” You laughed. “It’s perfect Harry, I love it.” 

“And I love you, my wife.” 

“I love you too, husband.” 

[skyj80]

GOTTA know more about:

BTR - the boys being protective of Logan :3

BTR - ken, lo, and james at one of carlos' family reunions someone help these white boys

BTR - alternate universe oneshots

such a cute game!! ty for the tag hehe :3

OKAY I THOUGHT I REPLIED TO THIS BUT I ACTUALLY TYPED EVERYTHING OUT AND THEN LIKE...DELETED IT??? ANYWAYYY

• the boys being protective of Logan: a series of one-shots unconnected to each other. I always loved the idea of the boys being particularly protective of Logan. I didn't start writing them like I thought I did but my doc had a list of my ideas but in really loooong descriptions

- Logan comes out to the guys as transfem. she knew they'd be supportive but damn they're super supportive. whenever someone refers to the band as a "boy band" they get all upset and Logan is like "chill guys people are still adjusting" lol - Logan is insecure about his appearance. the guys are fucking appalled. like...has he seen himself??? (but like no homo this time actually LMAO) - Logan passes out after a performance. the guys FRAK THE FUCK OUT. - TW: SUICIDAL IDEATION: the boys find an old suicide note Logan wrote in freshman year. he's doing a lot better now, but the guys had no idea he was in such a dark place to begin with. - Logan gets overstimulated and the guys lock in to help him out (making my faves have autism is self care) - casual protectiveness: ex - walking on the road side so Logan doesn't have to, arm around shoulder, shushing people when he's taking a nap, "Text me when you get there", just having deep admiration for who he is as a person - The boys feel like someone is using Logan for his smarts and put them in their place (Minnesota era)

I made a post for the family reunion one here

Alternate universe one-shots: similar to the first where. I didn't start writing them like I thought I did but my doc had a list of my ideas

- coffee shop AU: jo works at a coffee shop and had a crush on one of the regulars, Lucy. her coworkers are the boys and Camille. ft side ot4 or maybe ot5 of the boys + Camille idk idk - Teacher AU where...the boys are teachers duhh - historical ft arranged marriage Kendall and Jo. Jo know Kendall is gay and certainly secretly having relations with a guy (either James or Logan I haven't picked). It hurts her, of course. she loves him so much. she really does. but that love is why she never tells. he confesses, feeling overwhelmingly guilty but she just holds him and tells him its okay :') - College AU - idk what ill do but I just love college AUs - platonic soulmate AU where it takes a while for them to find Logan, but when they do they are finally complete - romantic soulmate au where...four people all being soulmates? Is that right? - aint easy being gay (kogan) latino (Carlos) or jewish (James) in New York City during the 1980s, but they got each other so they'll be alright - Royal AU where prince James doesn't give a fuck about status, he just wants to be pretty and hang out with the smart servant boy who helps him with his homework (Logan) Logan and Kendall are besties and Kendall think James is a snob. it takes a bit for him to warm up to him. Carlos is a prince from another ally kingdom :) - Gender swap AU where everything is the same but girls - Kendall is Katies main guardian. (Kendall 23, Katie 16) he goes to a parent-teacher conference and meets her teacher Mr.Mitchell (24) and oh no he's hot - single dad AU - I havent chosen a pairing yet LMAO

what are the chances I actually write all those...

honestly pretty high. don't doubt my hyperfixation abilities.

:D

WIP GAME

[kittwix]

Could you write some hcs bout Dragona Joestar x Dressmaker!reader?

They make clothes and accessories for Dragona

Dragona Joestar w/ Dressmaker! Reader

There's been some debate regarding Dragona's gender, so I will be using They/Them pronouns just to avoid assumptions since their gender has never actually been confirmed and are addressed ambiguously.

tags: sfw, gender neutral dragona, gender neutral reader, very wholesome and sweet, jodio cameo lol , dragona is so gorgeous

Can get behind supporting small, local business, especially if these business belong to someone like you. Assuming that the two of you have known each other, they can rely on their cutesy clothes and dazzling accessories mostly coming from you.

Tends to feel guilty about making you work extra hard, even if its technically your job, they can't help but feel a bit of a burden when they pop their head into the store and see you hunched over your desk working hard. Only to tap you on the shoulder and smile sheepishly as they hold up, yet, another design that they sketched themself.

As sweet as they can be, they're also a little demanding and can get bossy at times. Not intentional, it's a bit out of instinct considering they get into a lot of crap with their younger brother all the time which would lead to them having to look after him all the time and to take care of him. Guess olderly sibling instincts kick hard.

Knows that they can trust you. At times you catch them staring at you for a second before smirking to themselves and make sly comments here and there that almost makes you sew your fingers together. Though, if you attempt to reciprocate those comments back to them, they'll be nervous.

In the events that lead up to the two of you dating, Dragona treats you like they'd do normally only in this case was much more affectionate and touchy with their hands. Instead of leaning over the counter or peering over your shoulder to wonder what you're doing, they place a hand on your back with their front touching your arms or they'd wrap an arm around you and give you a small kiss to your cheek before saying anything.

It's fairly easy to get them presents for birthdays and other special ocassions. Even at the moments where you just wanted to surprise them with a new outfit you've made specifically for them.

Of course, with all the hardwork and labor you put in to your passion, the rare times you'll have the time to teach Dragona a few of the techniques and basic sewing skills to stitch fabrics together. Surprisingly they're a fast learner and it's a really nice bonding experience that the two of you share and it's so sweet that it even makes Jodio roll his eyes anytime he stops by with Dragona.

fin!

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