#rarest gemstones

[jeevanjali]

Gemstones: अपनी राशि अनुसार धारण करें रत्न का धारण, मिलेगा लाभGemstones: ज्योतिष शास्त्र के अनुसार किसी भी व्यक्ति की कुंडली में 12 घर, नवग्रह और 12 राशियां मिलकर यह निर्धारित करती हैं कि व्यक्ति के जीवन में किस तरह की स्थिति उत्पन्न होगी।

[geologyin-blog]

Painite is one of the rarest gem mineral in the world. Only a few hundred painite crystals have ever been found, most of them are very small, And only about two dozen gem-quality specimens have ever been found.

[joyfulartmywritingshark]

Natural Alexendrite

Weight carat 8.58

Dimension: 14.51×9.33×7.34mm

Available

Interested buyers Contact my what's app +919314623301

[chateauperidot]

These rare spinel are Luc Yen blue and an orangish red as well as a blood red Burma so see them at www.oldvirginiagem.com

[kingofbodyrolls]

Deep Dive (m) | knj

You’ve been searching for gemstones deep on the seabed— having found a broken piece of blue aquamarine. Searching for the missing piece and your new rival, you find it and much more with the blue tailed merman Namjoon while on a quest for crystals.

→ Pairing: namjoon x reader (female) → AUs: mermaid!au, fantasy!au, magical!au, soulmate!au → Trope: strangers to lovers → Genres: fluff, smut, angst + a very small sprinkle of comedy → Rating: mature/explicit/R18 (this is mature/explicit content, so minors, please do not interact.) → Word count: 19.8k → Warnings (general) + triggers: not much, honestly it’s all very very fluffy, lovey dovey and cute (you’ll probably get a cavity). There’s also a lot more lore and worldbuilding in this one compared to the others, as this is the first time we’re properly introduced to the seacity🧜It’s also rather existential and philosophical.  → Warnings (explicit): unprotected sex (please be safe), oral (male and female), multiple orgasms, dirty talk, love making, kissing, breast play (licking, sucking, biting), handjob, fingering, clit play, hair pulling, creampie, very brief cockwarming. → Read on AO3? [link] → Author’s note(1): I really don’t know what happened when writing this one; my fingers totally slipped and most of this is just world building 🫣 At least I had a shit ton of fun writing it! I tried to make the smut a bit different than I normally do, because I just feel like what I write is getting very repetitive… So I tried changing the pace of it a bit, but I don't know if it worked or not. Anyway, I really hope you like this one too, and I managed to finish it before Namjoon’s birthday, which means I’ll release it on that day 🥳 Please do let me know what, and if you liked it, and if you’re excited for the rest of the mermaid stories ✨

[s.masterlist] → this is part of a collection of series that are stand-alone one-shots, but all of them are set in the same universe. They are slightly connected though 🤭

The boat sways gently with the rhythm of the waves, each crest and trough sending a flutter through your stomach, a tantalizing whisper of the adventure awaiting below. The sea has always been your muse, its vast, enigmatic depths a sanctuary where you’ve carved out your own livelihood. As a freelance scuba diver, you descend into the ocean’s embrace, hunting for hidden treasures—crystals and gems, and occasionally, the rarest of finds. These treasures are not just artifacts; they are fragments of the earth’s ancient soul, preserved in the watery depths.

Hae, your best friend and partner in this aquatic quest, stands beside you, her hands steady as she helps you prepare for the dive. She runs a holistic and spiritual webshop called Soulful, a name that seems to capture the essence of her being��a blend of spirituality, sustainability, and an eye for the aesthetically divine. The gems and crystals you unearth find their way into her shop, where they are revered not just for their beauty, but for the energy they carry. The world has turned its gaze towards the mystical these days, and her shop has become a beacon for those seeking solace and healing in the arms of nature.

With your wetsuit snug against your skin, fins secured, and the weight of the oxygen tanks settling on your back, you feel the familiar thrill course through you. Hae hands you your goggles with a smile, and before placing the mouthpiece between your lips, you flash her a grin. “See you soon,” you say, voice laced with excitement. The small tool bag—your fanny pack of excavation tools—rests comfortably at your side, ready to assist in your quest for nature’s buried wonders.

You take a deep breath and plunge into the ocean, the water swallowing you with a resonant splash. As you breach the surface, your arms stretch forward, parting the water with a smooth, practiced motion. The ocean welcomes you, wrapping you in its cool, serene embrace. Here, beneath the waves, you are home, surrounded by the vibrant tapestry of sea life. Jellyfish drift by, their tendrils trailing like delicate threads of silk, while schools of tiny fish scatter at your approach, shimmering in the filtered sunlight that dances through the water. Deeper you dive, into the world where time slows, and the ocean whispers secrets long forgotten by the surface. The seafloor is a hidden gallery of nature’s artistry, where crystals and gems lie in wait, forged over eons by the earth’s elemental forces. Each one tells a story—of undersea volcanoes, tectonic pressures, and the alchemical dance of minerals. Hae often speaks of these gems as if they are living beings, infused with the spirit of the ocean itself, each one a relic of the deep’s quiet, patient creation.

You smile to yourself, recalling her poetic musings, almost as if you were reading straight from her website. But you know the truth behind the beauty—these crystals, formed through evaporation, precipitation, and the intricate dance of minerals, are more than just pretty stones. They are pieces of the earth’s heart, shaped by the hands of time and nature’s immense power. Sodium, magnesium, calcium, potassium—their chemical symphony plays out in each crystal, each gem a unique testament to the forces that birthed it.

To you, they are not just beautiful—they are a testament to the majesty of the natural world, a tangible link to the planet’s deep, unspoken history. Hae’s customers, too, are drawn to this connection, to the knowledge that each crystal was not mined en masse, but discovered and unearthed by your hands alone. This makes each piece not only ethically sourced but also one-of-a-kind, carrying with it a story that can never be replicated. And then, there’s the healing. The myriad of spiritual properties attributed to these gems opens another world entirely, one that you and Hae have only begun to explore. It’s a world where science and spirituality entwine, where the physical and the metaphysical dance in harmony. But for now, as you dive deeper into the ocean’s embrace, you’re content to simply marvel at nature’s handiwork, knowing that whatever treasures you find will carry a piece of this underwater realm back to the surface.

A glint catches your eye in the distance, a shimmer that pulls you deeper into the ocean’s embrace. You’ve lost track of how far you’ve dived—perhaps just a few meters, or maybe more. Time seems to stretch and compress down here, as fluid as the water around you. A quick glance at your watch reveals that only ten minutes have passed, but you know you must be mindful of the oxygen left in your tank. Still, the ocean’s siren call urges you onward, tempting you with secrets yet to be unveiled.

Something blue sparkles ahead, its brilliance cutting through the murky depths, and you find yourself drawn to it like a moth to a flame. Your body moves with the fluidity of the water, each motion a dance of instinct and harmony. Down here, you’re not just an explorer—you’re a part of the ocean itself, swaying gently in time with the currents. The source of the light reveals itself as you approach a small rock formation, where gems of varying shades of blue glisten like forgotten stars scattered across the ocean floor. Aquamarine, calcite, and amazonite—Hae’s voice echoes in your mind, recalling the knowledge she’s shared with you. Aquamarine, the “Sea Water Stone,” born from the cooling magma of the earth’s depths, its color an echo of the ocean’s own hues. It’s a stone that calms the mind, eases stress, and sharpens communication, a talisman of courage and clarity. Blue calcite, a crystal forged from calcium, carbon, and oxygen, soothes like a lullaby, its gentle presence calming nerves and quieting anxieties. It also opens the mind’s eye, enhancing intuition and inner vision. And then there’s amazonite, a gem you’ve always favored. Its cool blue-green tones speak to your soul, a “Stone of Courage” that promotes truth, honor, and positive communication. It balances the masculine and feminine energies within, weaving harmony into the fabric of life. You reach out, your fingers brushing the rough texture of the rock, marveling at the beauty before you.

Carefully, you pull out your tools—a smooth flat file and a soft silicone hammer—and begin to work. The gems yield to your skillful hands, and soon, you’ve gathered a small collection of aquamarine, blue calcite, and amazonite, each piece a perfect reflection of the ocean’s quiet majesty. You tuck them safely into your bag, their weight a comforting presence at your side.

But the ocean isn’t done with you yet. You swim further, your eyes scanning the seabed where kelp and other sea plants sway like ethereal dancers. A small cave catches your attention, its entrance barely large enough to accommodate you, but you’re compelled to explore. You squeeze through the narrow opening, and the sight that greets you steals your breath away.

Before you lies a treasure trove of green crystals, their surfaces shimmering like serpent scales. Serpentine—Hae has spoken of this gem, formed deep within the Earth’s mantle by the transformation of silicate minerals through water. This is your first time finding it, and you can’t help but marvel at its beauty, the green hues reminiscent of a forest hidden beneath the waves. You run your fingers over the rough surface, feeling the ancient energy thrumming within the stone. Carefully, you chip away a few pieces, their weight adding to the growing collection in your bag.

But the bag is heavy now, laden with the ocean’s gifts, and a glance at your watch tells you it’s time to return. With a reluctant sigh, you leave the cave behind, swimming back toward the surface, your heart still lingering in the depths. As you break through the water, the sunlight dazzles your eyes, and Hae is there, her hands reaching out to help you back onto the boat. The weight of your gear is a burden you’re glad to shed, and you push the bag toward her, eager to share your discoveries.

“Wow!” she exclaims, her eyes wide with wonder as she sifts through the gems. “You really found a lot—and serpentine? You’ve never found that before. My customers are going to be over the moon!”

Her excitement is infectious, and you can’t help but smile. “That makes it all worth it,” you say, pulling off your hydro fin shoes with a satisfied sigh. “But I’m keeping one piece of serpentine for myself—it’s too beautiful to part with.”

Hae nods, still mesmerized by the treasures you’ve brought to the surface. The joy in her eyes is a reflection of your own, and you feel a deep contentment settle over you. The ocean has shared its secrets with you once again, and as you breathe in the fresh air, you know that the bond you share with the sea is stronger than ever.

You sail home under the setting sun, the ocean’s breeze carrying with it the scent of salt and adventure. The rhythmic lapping of the waves against the boat lulls you into a state of serene satisfaction. Back on land, you join Hae in her cozy apartment, where the warmth of the evening light filters through the windows. Her small photo studio, a creative sanctuary tucked into a corner, is ready for the treasures you’ve unearthed. Together, you arrange the crystals with care, each one glistening like a piece of the ocean’s soul captured in stone. The camera clicks, preserving the gems’ beauty for the world to see, as Hae’s artistic eye transforms them into visions of wonder. The process is swift but meaningful, a quiet ritual that binds your shared passions. Soon, the crystals will grace her webshop, ready to bring a touch of the sea’s magic to those who seek it.

“This collection is huge, Namjoon,” Hoseok remarks with a warm smile, his gaze sweeping over the shimmering array of gems that adorn the older merman’s room. “There’s so much history embedded in these walls,” he adds, pointing to the meticulously arranged stones, and Namjoon feels a flush of pride rise to his cheeks. He’s poured countless hours into curating this collection, each gem—some calcite, larimar, jasper, peridotite, amazonite, and serpentine—bearing the weight of time and the ocean’s secrets.

Yoongi casts a sidelong glance at Namjoon and his prized collection, murmuring with a wry grin, “It’s impressive... but also incredibly dorky.”

Hoseok bursts into laughter, his joy so radiant that for a moment, Namjoon thinks they don’t need the sun in their underwater world—Hoseok’s light is enough to illuminate the depths.

“I’m not a dork,” Namjoon protests, crossing his arms over his bare torso in an attempt to feign indignation, but his stern expression does little to sway the younger mermen. Their laughter echoes through the water, a melody of friendship that only strengthens the bond between them.

“Nerd, then,” Hoseok offers through another burst of laughter, his voice rippling through the water like bubbles rising to the surface. Yoongi, ever the skeptic, merely rolls his eyes, already weary of the conversation. Namjoon can sense that Yoongi’s thoughts have drifted elsewhere—likely back to his bed, where he longs to sleep away the rest of the day. But Namjoon’s heart beats with a different rhythm, one that craves adventure. He usually embarks on treasure swims with his friend Soo-ah, but she’s preoccupied with her fiancé, Seokjin, as they prepare for their upcoming wedding.

Namjoon casts a glance at his friends, hoping they’ll soon take their leave so he can slip away into the inviting embrace of the sea. The room feels too small for his restless spirit, and the ocean beyond the walls calls to him like a siren’s song. He had initially invited them over for their monthly book club, but the gathering has devolved into something else entirely—Hoseok couldn’t stop laughing at the protagonist’s ridiculous misadventures, and Yoongi, true to form, had forgotten to read the book altogether. The story, plucked from the land above, strikes Hoseok as particularly odd and amusing, especially since he’s never set foot on land himself.

“Book club’s over, right?” Yoongi asks with a resigned sigh, his voice heavy with fatigue, as if the very mention of reading has drained him further.

“Yeah, but do try to read the next book for next month,” Namjoon chides gently, though he knows his words will likely fall on deaf ears. Yoongi merely shrugs, not even bothering to pick up the worn book as he drifts toward the door. Namjoon watches them go, rolling his eyes as Hoseok flashes him a soft smile and a thumbs-up before they swim off to their respective homes.

As their laughter fades into the distance, Namjoon finally feels the freedom to pursue the adventure that has been stirring within him all day. The sea awaits, vast and full of mysteries, and he is eager to explore its depths once more.

Namjoon exhales a deep sigh, the weight of his thoughts momentarily heavy, but he renews his energy by nibbling on some fresh kelp. The taste is crisp and briny, filling him with the vitality he needs for the journey ahead. With a determined glint in his eye, he slings his backpack over his shoulder and sets off on his adventure. The sea has always been his home, its vast expanse a comforting embrace. His parents, both scholars dedicated to preserving the rich history of their underwater city, have instilled in him a love for the past. But while they focus on teaching the young minds of the city, Namjoon’s heart has always been drawn to the secrets hidden within the earth—gems and stones that hold their own silent histories.

He propels himself forward, his baby blue tail cutting through the water with graceful precision. As he gathers speed, the fish scatter in a dazzling display, their scales catching the light as they dart away. The underwater world rushes past in a vibrant blur of color, until something shimmering in the distance catches his eye.

Ahead, perched on a rock formation, are gleaming clusters of calcite and aquamarine, their surfaces dancing with the light that filters through the water. The sun’s rays, fractured by the waves above, cast a spectrum of blues across the gems, making them shimmer like the sky at twilight. Namjoon’s breath catches in his throat, as it always does when faced with such natural beauty. Each gem is a masterpiece of time and pressure, a testament to the earth’s patient artistry. He reaches out, reverently running his fingers over the cool, smooth surfaces, feeling the ancient energy thrumming within them.

He pulls out his tools, careful not to disturb the surrounding environment, and begins to collect a few of the precious stones. As he works, he remembers Soo-ah and selects a particularly radiant piece to bring back to her, a token of their shared love for the ocean’s treasures.

But his heart skips a beat when he notices something unsettling—many of the gems have already been harvested, leaving only a few scattered remnants behind. A frown creases his brow as he wonders who could have beaten him to this spot. None of his friends share his passion for collecting gems. Sure, Taehyung enjoys gathering trinkets and curiosities, but stones have never been his interest. The thought of another collector in these waters feels strangely alien, a mystery that tugs at the edges of his mind.

Who else, he wonders, could be drawn to these underwater treasures with the same fervor that drives him?

You find yourself submerged once more, the embrace of the ocean welcoming you into its depths as you embark on yet another treasure hunt, eager to unearth new crystals. Your path leads you back to the familiar cave where you previously discovered the serpentine and calcite, their beauty still vivid in your memory. Yet, something feels different this time—there are fewer crystals adorning the rock formation and scattered across the seabed. The ocean’s depths, a canvas for nature’s exquisite artistry, have always been a sanctuary for the many fascinating crystals that dwell there. But you’ve never encountered another diver who collects them as passionately as you do. The realization leaves you momentarily puzzled, until a flicker of purple catches your eye in the distance.

Intrigued, you glide through the water with graceful urgency, approaching the new discovery. As you draw closer, you recognize the delicate gray and rose-hued crystals as lepidolite, known for its ability to enhance astral travel and lucid dreaming. You’ve rarely come across these gems in your dives, and even now, only a few precious stones cling to the rock formation. Carefully, you retrieve your tools and begin to collect the lepidolite, tucking each piece into your bag with a sense of reverence.

Continuing along the seabed, you pass by schools of vibrant fish, their colors a blur of life around you, until something extraordinary catches your attention—massive aquamarine crystals, far larger than any you’ve ever seen before. They seem to pulse with a quiet energy, drawing you in with their mesmerizing blue hue. As you approach with a gentle hand, you feel an inexplicable connection to the gems, as if they are whispering tales of the ocean’s mysteries and the magnificence of the world beneath the waves.

Gingerly, you touch the aquamarines, and a surge of calm washes over you, a tranquility deeper than anything you’ve ever experienced. The sensation is strange, yet profoundly soothing, as if the ocean itself is sharing its serenity with you. 

Taking your time, you inspect the crystals, standing tall on a rocky pedestal surrounded by pink sea bushes and kelp that sways in the water’s current. A few curious fish glide by as you carefully chip away at the base of the crystal, hoping to extract a substantial piece. When you finally succeed, you notice something peculiar—the crystal’s twin, the piece that once stood beside it, is missing. The jagged edge where it was removed is unmistakable. The question lingers in your mind, unsettling and persistent: Who has taken the other piece?

As you wonder who else might be drawn to the allure of these hidden gems, your hands continue their careful work, collecting a few more of the larger pieces, along with several smaller ones. You know that the smaller stones, though modest in size, still carry the same potent energy as their grander counterparts, and some people cherish them all the more for their delicate beauty. Each crystal, whether large or small, holds within it the ocean’s quiet wisdom, waiting to be shared.

Gently, you tuck the treasures into your bag, the weight of them a comforting reminder of the sea’s generosity. With a final, lingering glance at the shimmering aquamarines, you propel yourself upward, your body moving effortlessly through the water’s embrace. As you break through the surface, the world above greets you with a rush of air and sunlight. Hae is there, her arms open wide, her smile as warm as the sun. She helps you back into the boat, her touch gentle and reassuring, as if she understands the wonders you’ve just encountered below.

Once you’re back in the boat, the weight of your gear feels heavier than ever as you remove it, but your heart is light with the excitement of your discoveries. You eagerly reveal your treasures to Hae, each crystal glinting in the sunlight as you lay them before her. With a grin, you hold up the largest aquamarine, its cool blue depths mirroring the ocean below. “This one’s mine,” you declare, the gem feeling like a piece of the sea itself in your hand. But then your tone grows more serious as you add, “I think there’s another diver out there collecting gems. So many were missing from the formation.”

Hae’s eyes widen, her smile fading into a look of concern. You can almost see the wheels turning in her mind, already strategizing, perhaps even considering whether it’s time to move to a new, more secluded spot. The thought of competition makes her uneasy, her gaze drifting over the precious stones as if they might vanish any moment.

Sensing her anxiety, you place a reassuring hand on her shoulder. “Don’t worry,” you say with quiet confidence. “I’ll dig around, find out who it is. We’ve come too far to let this unsettle us.” Your words are meant to calm her, to remind her that together, you’ve weathered challenges before. After all, her webshop, with its unique blend of spirituality and sustainability, has always stood out in a sea of imitators.

Hae exhales softly, her tension easing as she meets your gaze. “Okay, thank you,” she murmurs, her hands gently gathering the remaining crystals, leaving you with your cherished aquamarine. The stone gleams in your palm, a symbol of the bond between you and the sea, and now, a silent vow to protect what you’ve both worked so hard to build.

The pull of the ocean is undeniable, a quiet voice in the depths of your soul that beckons you toward the gem, as if it carries the very essence of the sea within its crystalline heart. You know instantly that this piece belongs by your side, a reminder of the ocean’s mysteries and your bond with its vast, hidden world. The sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the water as you sail back to shore, the quiet lapping of waves a soothing lullaby.

Returning to your apartment, you flick on the light, the familiar space bathed in a soft glow as you carefully place your ocean gift on the nightstand beside your bed. The gem catches the light, its surface shimmering like the sea at dawn. With a contented sigh, you brush your teeth, the routine grounding you after the day’s adventure. But as you lay in bed, your mind drifts back to the ocean, and sleep comes quickly, filled with dreams of underwater realms and the treasures that lie beneath.

Yet, even in sleep, a question nags at you. For days, the mystery has lingered in your thoughts—who could be venturing into the depths to collect gems alongside you? Your research has led you nowhere, each inquiry a dead end. No diver you know is as daring, or perhaps as mad, as you, willing to plunge into the ocean’s deepest reaches. The puzzle gnaws at you, an itch you can’t quite scratch, and the frustration builds like a storm on the horizon. It feels as if the answer is just out of reach, hidden beneath the waves, and the more you dwell on it, the more it drives you to the edge of your patience, a riddle you are desperate to unravel.

Driven by a spark of determination, you’ve hatched a bold plan—to dive back into the depths and catch the mysterious intruder who’s been claiming your precious gems. Hae thinks it’s a dumb idea, but she indulges you, knowing your spirit is as restless as the ocean itself. And so, once again, you find yourself out on the boat, with Hae in the vast expanse of the ocean under the midday sun. The boat sways gently, a rhythmic dance on the water’s surface as you methodically pull on your gear—your oxygen tanks, goggles, and hydro fins. The final touch is your backpack, securely fastened to the tank, ready to hold whatever treasures you might uncover.

With purpose in your heart and a steely resolve, you press your arms together and plunge into the ocean’s embrace. The world above fades away as you descend into the deep, your body slicing through the water with graceful determination. Thoughts of the smaller boats you saw earlier linger in your mind, fueling your hope that this dive will lead you to your elusive rival.

As you dive deeper, the current cradles you, guiding your body as you sway with the ocean’s rhythm, until you reach the seabed. The familiar terrain unfolds before you, a place you’ve visited many times, yet now it feels different, touched by the presence of another. Only a few small gems remain, their glint a reminder of what’s been taken. You scan your surroundings—kelp sways like dancers in the current, fish dart about in a symphony of colors—but no sign of competition yet.

Undeterred, you press on, swimming further along the seabed, following the contours of rocky formations. Your heart quickens as you reach a familiar spot, the place where you once unearthed a magnificent aquamarine. But as you approach, your breath catches—the rock’s surface is nearly barren, the aquamarine all but vanished, save for a few remaining shards that catch the light. Your fingers hover over the stone, tracing the empty space where the gems once gleamed, now a haunting reminder of what’s been lost to unseen hands.

A sudden jolt, like a spark of electricity, tingles through your fingertips, and before you can react, a blur of blue fills your vision, distorting the world around you. You blink rapidly, trying to clear the haze, but it remains—an ethereal presence in the water. Then, you feel a light, almost playful poke against your cheek, and a startled scream escapes into your mouthpiece, sending a cascade of bubbles spiraling upwards.

Instinctively, you jerk backward, heart pounding, as you struggle to comprehend what’s before you. No—this can’t be real. It’s not another diver. It’s not even human.

In front of you, suspended in the water like a living dream, is a merman. His face, heart-shaped and adorned with eyes like dragon-like darkened amber, is framed by short, blue hair that floats gently around his soft cheeks, jawline and pointed chin. Thin soft eyebrows arch over those wide, curious eyes—eyes that seem to hold all the wonder of the deep. His lips, thick and juicy are slightly parted in a soft ‘o,’ convey a mix of curiosity and surprise. Your gaze travels over his tall frame down to his bare chest, lean and strong, and then to the tail—an iridescent baby blue, shimmering with every subtle movement, a perfect extension of the ocean’s beauty. 

A wiggling tail instead of legs.

You blink again, desperate to make sense of the vision before you. A merman… It has to be.

He drifts closer, his tail flicking gracefully as he reaches out to poke your chin once more, his voice resonating through the water with an almost melodic quality. “Are you human?” he asks, his tone gentle yet filled with the wonder of a child discovering something new.

Your mind races, and you nod frantically, unable to speak with the mouthpiece still in your mouth, your feet paddling in the water as you fight to steady yourself. The reality of the moment crashes over you like a wave—this is no fantasy. A merman is right in front of you.

As your gaze falls on the backpack strapped to his shoulders, you notice a subtle shimmer, a gleam of something precious. In that instant, the pieces fall into place—he’s the one. He’s the mysterious collector, your unexpected rival in this underwater hunt for gems.

“I’ve seen humans before,” he continues, his voice carrying an almost casual tone as he swims around you, studying you like a creature from another world, “but I’ve never seen one dressed like you.”

Your heart aches to respond, to ask a million questions, but with the mouthpiece in place, all you can do is let him circle you, his eyes filled with an innocent fascination. The silence between you is heavy with unspoken words, each glance exchanged like a whispered secret between the ocean and the sun.

As you take in the sight before you, your eyes are drawn to a necklace resting against his chest, the small piece of aquamarine nestled between the firm contours of his titties—chest, you mean chest! The gem, cradled in the hollow where his muscles meet, glimmers softly, almost as if it’s alive with the very essence of the sea. You can’t help but stare in awe, the allure of it tugging at something deep within you. Thank heavens for your goggles, masking the blush that would otherwise give away your wandering thoughts.

“You look funny,” he remarks, his voice laced with innocent curiosity as he reaches out to grab one of your hydro fin shoes. The unexpected touch throws you off balance, and for a moment, you find yourself flipping weightlessly in the water, your body twisting like a leaf caught in a gentle current.

“Is this supposed to be like a mermaid’s tail?” he asks, holding your foot aloft as though it were some ancient relic to be deciphered. His brow furrows in concentration, and you can’t help but feel a mix of amusement and bewilderment at the sight.

Instinctively, you jerk your foot back, breaking free from his grasp, and you push against the water with frantic kicks, a glance at your watch reminding you that time is running out. As much as you wish to linger here, captivated by the merman’s presence, the pressing need to return to the surface propels you upward.

“Hey! Where’re you going?” he calls after you, his voice tinged with a hint of desperation, but you’re already too focused on reaching the surface to notice the distress in his expression. The thought of what could happen if you don’t make it in time isn’t one you’re willing to entertain.

Breaking through the water’s surface, you take off the mouthpiece and  gulp in fresh air, scanning the horizon until you spot your boat, a distant speck where Hae waits, the other vessels having long since disappeared. It seems manageable, this swim back to the boat, as long as you stay above water—your oxygen tank now empty, its weight a reminder of how close you cut it.

But before you can begin the swim, something solid collides with you, stopping you in your tracks. “Ow,” you exclaim, startled as you float backward, only to find yourself face to face with a familiar figure, his blue hair dripping wet above the waves.

“Hi,” the merman says with a smile, his dimples appearing like little pools of light in the sun. The simple word carries a warmth that catches you off guard, and for a moment, you’re lost in the easy charm of his grin, the ocean around you feeling suddenly smaller, as if it were just the two of you in this vast, endless world.

“Hi,” you greet him with a soft smile, still astonished that he followed you to the surface at all. A swirl of unspoken questions rises in your chest, but they tangle in your throat, leaving you staring at him, wide-eyed and speechless. The world seems to blur, save for the merman before you, his wet blue hair plastered against his forehead, his dragon-like eyes sweeping over you with a curious intensity, as if he’s memorizing every detail.

“What’s all that stuff you’ve got on?” he asks, pointing a slender finger at your goggles and then at the oxygen tanks strapped securely to your back.

“These?” you say, finding your voice as you point to your goggles. “They help me see underwater,” you pause, feeling the weight of the tanks pulling at your shoulders, “And these let me breathe while I dive—they hold the oxygen I need when I’m down there.” You gesture to the tanks behind you, your explanation feeling small in the face of his wide, unblinking curiosity.

He hums thoughtfully, nodding as if piecing together a puzzle. “Makes sense,” he says at last, though his gaze strays past you, catching sight of Hae waving from the boat that rocks gently on the surface, her silhouette framed by the scorching sun.

“I... I have to get back,” you mumble, pointing toward your friend, the words feeling heavy as they leave your lips. You try to steady your thoughts, but they swirl like the currents beneath the sea, a thousand questions dancing just beneath the surface, questions you don’t quite dare to voice.

“Okay,” he says, but there’s a flicker of something in his eyes—hesitation, perhaps. “But before you go…” His voice halts your movements, drawing you back to him like the pull of the tide. You turn toward him again, heart fluttering in the quiet space between you, as if the ocean itself is holding its breath, waiting to see what comes next.

“What’s your name?” His voice is soft, carrying a gentleness that ripples through the water.

“It’s ___,” you reply, offering him a smile that’s both shy and warm.

“That’s pretty,” he says, and when his lips part into a smile, his dimples carve deep into his cheeks, making him almost impossibly cute, but dangerously so. 

“I’m Namjoon.” 

His name lingers between you like a secret, sweet and mysterious. “Will I see you again?” he asks, tilting his head slightly, his brow raised in curious hope.

You can’t help the grin that spreads across your face, the warmth filling your chest. There’s something about him—this enchanting creature of the deep—that makes you feel drawn in, like the tide itself is pulling you closer. You nod, the joy bubbling up inside you as you answer, “See you later, Namjoon.” There’s more than one reason you want to see him again. The unspoken questions whirl in your mind, but there’s also the thrill—because maybe, just maybe, you want to get your hands on the best crystals before he does.

As you turn and swim back toward Hae, your thoughts a mess of wonder and disbelief, a blush warms your cheeks. Did you just make a date with a merman? The thought sends a tingle of excitement through you. But when you glance back to where he was, Namjoon is already gone, having disappeared beneath the shimmering surface, like a dream fading with the dawn.

You finally make it to the boat, the sun still hanging high, bathing everything in golden light. As Hae helps you out of the water and hands you a towel, her eyes are wide with confusion. “Who was that? And how did he just vanish into the water like that, without any diving gear?”

“A merman,” you pant, peeling off your oxygen tanks and goggles. The words slip out of your mouth so naturally, like it’s something you’d say every day. Not the revelation of a magical creature, but a simple truth.

Hae stares at you, eyes nearly bulging from their sockets. “I’m sorry, what?”

“A merman,” you repeat, more firmly this time.

“A merman?” she echoes, her voice faint and incredulous, as if the very idea is too fantastical to grasp.

“Yes. A goddamn merman,” you say, grinning wide as you meet her disbelieving gaze. “Scaly tail and all.” And then the absurdity of it all hits you, and before you know it, you’re laughing—a bright, bubbling sound that lifts the tension from your chest.

Hae blinks, her mind racing to catch up with the truth you’ve laid before her. When she finally does, her gaze shifts to the shimmering crystals you’ve collected, and without another word, she turns the boat towards home, lost in thought as the ocean waves lap against the sides. And all you can do is sit there, the excitement of your encounter buzzing through your veins, as you wonder about the next time you’ll meet Namjoon beneath the waves.

The next time you set sail, the open sea stretching endlessly before you, a current of giddy anticipation courses through your veins. Thoughts of the blue-haired merman, Namjoon, fill your mind, sparking excitement deep within your chest. Will he be there today, waiting beneath the waves? You wish you could speak with him underwater, to ask him the thousand questions swirling in your heart, but the surface would have to do for now. You can’t help but smile at the thought of seeing him again.

Hae steers the boat through the shimmering water, the horizon vast and infinite. As you slip on your gear and dive beneath the surface, the ocean’s cool embrace pulls you into its depths. You swim purposefully, eyes scanning the underwater world, searching for both gems and a glimpse of Namjoon. 

Suddenly, something blue catches your eye, sparkling in the distance. Your pulse quickens as you think, just for a moment, that it might be him. But as you swim closer, your heart sinks—it’s only a cluster of aquamarine, glittering like pieces of fallen sky. You feel a bit foolish, letting your hopes get the better of you. Shaking off the disappointment, you turn your attention to the task at hand, collecting the gems with careful precision, though your thoughts continue to drift back to the mysterious merman.

You move to a new spot, finding a hidden cave adorned with larimar crystals. The stones are breathtaking—swirls of blue, white, and gray blending like waves crashing upon a shore, smooth and radiant. The sight brings a smile to your face, the beauty of the moment settling into your heart. You gently gather some of the crystals, placing them in your bag with reverence, as if each one carries a secret.

Just as you’re about to leave the cave, a shadow falls across the entrance. Your heart skips a beat, startled by the sudden presence. But then, the familiar voice reaches your ears, warm and apologetic, and you see him—Namjoon, his figure filling the space, his smile soft and full of quiet charm.

“I didn’t mean to scare you,” he says, his hand nervously scratching the back of his head, his eyes filled with a gentle sincerity.

Relief washes over you, and with a playful wave of your hands, you signal that it’s okay—that he needn’t worry. How you wish you could speak to him down here, let your words float freely in the water like the bubbles escaping from your gear. But for now, your gestures will have to suffice. Your smile says the rest—you’re just glad to see him again.

“You’re collecting crystals, right?” Namjoon asks, his voice cutting through the liquid silence as he gestures toward your already bulging bag. You nod in response, still catching your breath from the weight of the gems you’ve gathered.

“Do you want me to show you a cave with lepidolite?” he mumbles, his tone casual but a bit uncertain. “They’re pretty rare, but I know of a cave that’s full of them.” For a fleeting moment, you wonder if this is the ocean’s version of Netflix and chill, the awkwardness of the offer landing with the charm of a bad pickup line. You can’t help but smile at the thought. 

Still, you nod, knowing that Hae would be thrilled to get her hands on more lepidolite, and besides, you’re curious. You figure underwater Netflix and chill is a bit different from what you’re used to anyway.

Namjoon leads the way, his brilliant blue tail weaving effortlessly through the water, shimmering like sunlight caught in a sapphire. You trail behind him, captivated by the rhythmic sway of his form, the way his muscles ripple across his broad back like waves sculpted by some divine hand. You can’t help but wonder—do they even have gyms down here? The sight of him, so fluid and powerful, is mesmerizing, and before you know it, time seems to slip away, your focus narrowing to the subtle dance of his movements.

“This is the cave,” he suddenly announces, pulling you out of your reverie. You hadn’t realized just how long you’d been swimming, utterly absorbed by the quiet beauty of the journey and him.

You follow him inside, and the sight that greets you takes your breath away—deep violet lepidolite, sparkling in the dim light like stars scattered across a twilight sky. You’re awestruck by the sheer abundance, the rare gems nestled into the cave walls as if nature had painted this secret world just for you.

“Beautiful, right?” Namjoon giggles softly, his voice echoing gently through the cavern as you nod, too taken by the sight to speak. You pull out your tools, carefully beginning to gather the precious stones, all while feeling the warmth of his gaze lingering on you. His silent watchfulness stirs a strange flustered feeling inside, like he’s studying you with the same intensity you’ve used to admire him.

Once your bag is heavy with lepidolite, Namjoon takes you on a quiet tour of other hidden gem spots. Each place he shows you feels like a secret whispered by the ocean itself, and soon your collection grows so large that the weight of it tugs at you, as if the sea itself is trying to pull you back down. When Namjoon offers to carry your bag, you try to refuse at first, clinging to your independence. But as your arms grow heavy, you relent, watching in awe as he effortlessly takes your overloaded bag, slinging it across his broad frame with ease. He carries it as though the weight is nothing, his strength as graceful as the tides themselves.

With a raised arm, you gesture that it’s time to surface—your oxygen running low, the familiar ache of needing air settling into your chest. He seems to understand immediately, and together you ascend, the world around you turning brighter as you rise toward the surface.

Breaking through the water, you gasp in the fresh air, peeling off your goggles and mouthpiece, eager to speak to him in the open air. Namjoon surfaces beside you, droplets clinging to his skin as the sun catches the water in his hair, casting a shimmering halo around his smiling face.

“We should do this again,” he says, his voice warm and full of excitement. “Wasn’t it fun?”

“It really was,” you reply with a smile, your heart still buzzing from the underwater adventure. “Thank you for showing me all those caves. My friend, Hae, is going to be over the moon,” you say, casting a glance toward the boat swaying gently in the distance.

“That’s great to hear,” Namjoon replies, his voice as smooth as the rippling waves.

A flicker of frustration tugs at your chest, and you bite your lip. “I just wish I could talk to you down there,” you admit, your words heavy with a longing that feels both simple and profound.

“It would be nice, yeah,” he muses, his soft smile brightened by the sunlight. “But I don’t mind coming up here to talk. I like the air up here too,” he adds with a gentle chuckle, his gaze warm and steady.

“I have so many questions,” you blurt out, the words escaping you before you can hold them back. There’s too much wonder bottled up inside you, too much curiosity, and it needs to spill over.

Namjoon laughs, a sound so genuine it feels like sunlight breaking through clouds. “Shoot,” he says, his dimples deepening like two small whirlpools at the corners of his mouth.

You pause, your mind swimming with possibilities, before settling on the most obvious. “Are you the only merman, or… are there more of you?” you ask, your voice tinged with awe.

“There are more,” he says with pride, his chest lifting slightly. “There’s a whole city beneath the sea—Naraeum, where we live.” His eyes gleam with the pride of someone who belongs to something ancient and wondrous.

A thrill runs through you at the revelation. An entire city of merfolk hidden beneath the waves. The thought makes your pulse quicken, the realization that you’ve stumbled upon something so extraordinary, so secret, that few on the surface could even imagine it. You feel as if you’ve been let in on the universe’s greatest mystery, and it fills you with a giddy excitement that hums like electricity in your veins. 

“Are there cities or kingdoms beneath the waves? What are they like?” you ask, your voice soft with curiosity, eager to glimpse the world he calls home.

Namjoon’s eyes light up with a quiet pride. “Naraeum is a vast kingdom,” he begins, his words gentle yet full of wonder. “There’s pink coral stretching as far as the eye can see, ancient golden buildings weathered by time, and bright green kelp that sways like dancers in the currents. Dark caves hide beneath the surface, teeming with life—fish, crabs, creatures of every kind. And at night, everything glows with bioluminescent light, turning the ocean into a dreamscape.” A faint blush rises on his cheeks as he adds, “Maybe I can show you one day.”

Your breath catches in your throat, the thought of seeing an underwater kingdom beyond anything you’ve ever imagined. “That sounds unbelievable. I’d love to see Naraeum,” you say, barely able to contain the excitement bubbling within you. The idea of diving so deep, into a world untouched by human hands, feels too surreal to grasp.

“There are other cities too,” Namjoon continues, a smile tugging at his lips. “Some are smaller, some are larger, but Naraeum is like the heart of our region, the capital of sorts,” he adds, the pride in his voice unmistakable.

Your mind whirls with possibilities, questions tumbling out before you can stop them. “Do you have art? Music? Stories? How do you create them underwater?”

Namjoon laughs, a full-bodied sound that echoes across the waves. “We do,” he replies with a sparkle in his eyes. “Human books, for one—we’ve learned to preserve them so they don’t dissolve. Otherwise, we etch our stories on stone, carving our history into the bones of the sea. For music, we use instruments that echo your drums, flutes, and strings, but they’re crafted from merfolk hair, delicate yet strong.”

He pauses, a wistful look crossing his face. “Naraeum is ancient, filled with art and stories older than any of us. But,” he adds, adjusting the heavy bag on his back, “I fear I don’t have enough time to share them all right now. This bag,” he says with a light grin, “is starting to weigh me down.”

“Oh right, the bag!” you exclaim, snapping back to reality as a wave of panic ripples through you. You mentally scold yourself for letting the moment sweep you away, your feet kicking gently against the water as you make your way toward the boat. Namjoon swims by your side, effortlessly graceful, his shimmering tail flickering beneath the surface. 

Hae is there, waiting with a patient smile, and as she pulls you aboard, you reach out to take the heavy bag from Namjoon’s hands. “Thank you so much,” you say, a warm smile spreading across your face despite the unspoken whirlpool of questions still swirling in your mind. You wish you could ask him everything, but those wonders will have to wait.

“It’s no trouble at all,” Namjoon replies, his voice soft like the lull of the ocean. His own smile is tender, a quiet acknowledgment that leaves you feeling light despite the weight of the bag. 

Hae chimes in with a grin, “So, you’re the famous merman,” she teases, still a little wide-eyed as Namjoon flashes his bright blue tail above the surface, the sight leaving her speechless. The tail vanishes just as quickly, a flicker of the magic below.

“I’ll have to go now,” Namjoon says, his voice carrying a gentle farewell as he begins to swim backward, his gaze lingering on yours. “But I’ll see you again soon, ___.”

A blush creeps up your cheeks, and despite yourself, you smile and wave, heart fluttering in a way that’s both exhilarating and unsettling. You watch him dip beneath the waves, his form disappearing into the deep blue, leaving the water still and the air quiet.

Hae turns to you with a knowing look. “You’ve got a crush on the merman, don’t you?”

You can’t deny the warmth spreading through you, but you push the thought aside, the reality of it sinking in. He’s a merman. You’re human. It feels impossible, like something from a dream. But maybe—just maybe—being friends isn’t out of reach. Friends, you think, as if convincing yourself. That can’t hurt... right?

In the following weeks, you find yourself swept into a world beyond imagination—each adventure with Namjoon feels like diving into a storybook of magic and wonder. He takes you to hidden underwater realms where gems glimmer like stars, and schools of fish, dolphins, and whales glide by as if it’s the most natural thing in the world. It’s as though the ocean has opened up just for you, revealing its secrets with every dive. The more time you spend with him, the stronger your heart tugs, pulling you deeper into your feelings. You try, futilely, to convince yourself you’re just friends, but every shared laugh, every meaningful glance, makes that harder to believe. 

Namjoon is an incredible friend, one who listens to your ramblings with genuine interest. His conversation is as vast and deep as the ocean itself, leading you into existential tangents that leave you pondering life and its mysteries long after the talks are over. You wish for more—there’s an ache that grows inside you—but how could that even be possible? He’s a merman, you’re human. It feels like some impossible fairy tale. Yet, you’ve caught him stealing glances, his cheeks tinged with blush, and sometimes he gazes at you with an intensity that makes your heart flutter in ways you can’t ignore. But does that mean anything? How do merfolk even love? You wonder if their hearts beat the same as yours.

One quiet afternoon, as you sit with the sun lazily dipping below the horizon on the boat, you find yourself asking the question that’s been gnawing at your mind. “Are there any consequences if a merman falls in love with a human?” The words tumble out before you can stop them. 

Namjoon, floating beside the boat, nearly chokes on the beer you brought him, his laughter turning into a cough as he searches for air. When he finally speaks, his voice is quieter, more careful. “There aren’t really... any consequences,” he murmurs, the tips of his ears turning pink. His eyes flicker nervously to your lips, then meet your eyes again, a quiet vulnerability swimming in their depths.

Good to know, you think, your heart skipping a beat. But before the blush overtakes you, you scramble to change the subject, your curiosity pulling you in another direction. “Is there magic in the ocean, like the old legends say? Can you control it?”

He laughs softly, the sound like the ebb and flow of waves. “There is magic, but no, I can’t control it. None of us can. There’s a Sea Witch, though—she’s the only one with that kind of power, as far as I know.” His words are laced with mystery, and your mind spins with possibilities.

“Can merfolk live forever?” you ask, half-dreaming of a life that stretches beyond the boundaries of time.

“Yes and no,” he replies, his voice thoughtful. “We can live for so long it feels like forever, but we’re not truly immortal.” His gaze drifts across the water, as if pondering the weight of time itself. 

“Interesting,” you murmur, your thoughts swirling. “What happens when a merperson dies, then? Is there an afterlife?”

Namjoon’s smile is wistful as he explains, “When a merperson dies, we hold a celebration—a spiritual send-off, really. There’s singing, dancing, it’s more of a party than a funeral. We celebrate their journey into the afterlife.” You must look puzzled because he quickly adds, “In the afterlife, we become ghosts. But if friends and family don’t send you off properly, there’s a chance the spirit might come back to haunt them.” He chuckles lightly, and you gasp, wide-eyed at the thought.

A cool breeze dances over the water, and for a moment, the world feels suspended between reality and the dreamlike expanse of the sea. You sit there, awed by the depth of his world, your heart both heavy with questions and light with wonder. And in that moment, despite the impossible distance between your two worlds, something seems to shift—something delicate and unspoken. You don’t know what the future holds, but maybe, just maybe, there’s magic enough to bridge the divide.

He passes the beer back to you, and you take a gentle sip, letting the taste linger without wanting the haze of drunkenness to settle in. Out here, in the middle of the endless ocean, everything feels both vast and intimate. A small taste is enough.

“Do you ever feel lonely in the vastness of the sea?” you ask, a quiet melancholy softening your voice as you gaze out at the seemingly endless horizon. The sea is breathtaking, yes, but the weight of its endlessness stirs something in you—a humbling reminder of how small one can feel in such a world.

“Sometimes,” Namjoon admits, his head dipping as his gaze finds the water. “There are moments when the ocean feels too big, too quiet.” His voice is soft, vulnerable. “But I have good friends,” he continues with a faint smile, “and I have my books when the solitude feels too heavy.” He looks at you with eyes warm and reassuring, as if to say that the sea might be vast, but he’s found beauty in its stillness.

“Oh, what books do you like?” you chuckle lightly, trying to brighten the mood, though his quiet sincerity tugs at your heart.

“Human books,” he replies with a gentle grin. “I love historical tales, but fiction is my favorite—stories that let me dream of other worlds.”

You smile, curiosity dancing on your lips. “What kind of fiction? Should I bring you some next time?” The words tumble out before you can catch them, your eagerness spilling over into the space between you.

A blush blooms across his cheeks, so deep it even colors the tips of his ears. In a shy, almost bashful voice, he says, “I... I like romance.” His admission is soft, as if he’s unsure of how it will land.

You can’t help but smile, your heart swelling with affection. There’s no shame in it, not to you—if anything, it’s endearing. “I have some romance books I can bring next time, if you’d like,” you offer, your voice gentle, feeling the warmth of your words fill the space between you.

Namjoon’s eyes sparkle, a soft wonder lighting them up as his blush deepens. “I wouldn’t mind that,” he murmurs, his voice as tender as the evening breeze.

The sun has begun to sink lower, casting a golden glow over the water. Namjoon glances at the sky, then back at you with a smile that feels like the closing of a chapter. “It’s getting late. I was thinking... next time, I could show you Naraeum.” His voice is proud, almost glowing with the thought. “If we go at night, the whole kingdom shines,” he adds, a spark of excitement in his eyes as he recalls the bioluminescent beauty he once described to you.

Your heart leaps at the thought. “I’d love that,” you say, feeling the pull of the ocean’s magic once more. “I’ll ask Hae to man the boat, so I’m not alone when it’s time to head back.”

Namjoon nods, his smile softening as the sun dips lower, its light casting golden hues over both the water and his blue hair. “See you soon,” he says, waving as he begins to slip beneath the surface.

You wave back, feeling the warmth of his presence linger, even as you sail toward the shore, the fading sunlight a reminder that the ocean holds many mysteries yet to be uncovered. And with each adventure, your connection to him deepens, like a current pulling you both to something inevitable.

"I’m telling you, you’re totally whipped, man," Yoongi says with a playful eye roll, his voice teasing but laced with truth.

“I’m not,” Namjoon protests, crossing his arms defensively, but deep down, he knows resistance is futile. His friends have been relentless, teasing him ever since you entered his life—how his smile stretches wider, brighter, after spending time with you, how your name slips into conversations that have nothing to do with the human world. It’s like you’ve seeped into his very soul. He knows he’s fallen, and fallen hard, but the weight of his feelings confuses him. He has no idea how to navigate them, unsure of your heart, or if you could even feel the same pull toward him. And how could it ever work between you two? The thought of venturing onto land to be with you dances through his mind like a fragile dream, but there’s a storm of questions swirling beneath the surface—questions he’s too afraid to ask, too scared to drown in all the unknowns.

“Just don’t get your heart broken,” Yoongi mutters, his voice softer now, tinged with caution. Namjoon nods, the words settling heavily in his chest like stones sinking to the ocean floor.

“Hey man, don’t throw your past experiences at Joonie like that!” Jimin chimes in, smacking Yoongi’s shoulder, a little too forcefully judging by Yoongi’s wince. “If he’s in love, he should go for it. Take the dive, see where the current leads him,” the blonde merman insists, eyes sparkling with mischief and optimism, trying to fill Namjoon’s heart with hope, pushing away the shadows Yoongi’s cynicism casts.

Namjoon, though, can only sigh. “I just don’t know…,” he mumbles, fingers trailing along the spines of his beloved books, rearranging them in some futile attempt to quiet the storm inside him. Anything to busy himself, anything to keep thoughts of you from consuming him. But it’s hopeless—why does his mind keep drifting back to you, like the tide, relentless and unyielding?

“It will never work,” Yoongi shrugs with a quiet scoff, his voice carrying the weight of someone who’s seen too many relationships slip away. His words linger in the air, heavy like the deep sea.

Jimin, unphased, shoots him a scolding glare. “You never know that,” he says firmly. “Just because your love life’s been a shipwreck doesn’t mean it’s the same for everyone else.” There’s a sharp edge to his words, a flicker of irritation.

“And look at Seokjin and Soo-ah!” Jimin adds, his voice lifting again, the gleam of an idea flickering in his eyes. “Soo-ah was human once too, remember? She turned mermaid for love. Maybe ___ would want to become a mermaid as well? Who knows what fate has in store,” he grins, ever the romantic, eager to plant seeds of possibility in Namjoon’s mind.

Namjoon’s heart stirs at the thought, but even the idea feels like a dream too distant, too fragile to reach. Could you really be part of his world? Could love, like the sea, find a way to bridge the impossible distance between you?

“I would never put that on her. She has a life—one she’s likely content with on land. I couldn’t ask her to leave it behind,” Namjoon says, his voice laced with breathless resignation, as though the weight of his own feelings has left him deflated, crushed beneath the impossibility of it all. 

“She’s a good friend. I’ll just... enjoy what we have for now,” he adds softly, placing the book you’d given him gently on his nightstand, his fingers lingering on the cover. He already treasures it, not for the words it contains, but because it came from you. Though he hasn’t yet reached the end, he finds himself lost in the pages, immersed in the tale of a woman struggling with feelings for her best friend—torn between preserving their friendship or risking everything for love. If Namjoon sees a reflection of his own heart in those pages, he’ll never admit it, not even to himself.

“Love sucks anyway,” Yoongi mutters, his voice sharp and bitter, like a wound still raw and bleeding.

“You’re killing the vibe, Yoon,” Jimin sighs, shaking his head as he swims closer to Namjoon, his energy warm and comforting. 

“Don’t listen to him,” Jimin adds, draping an arm around Namjoon’s broad shoulders, trying to lift the weight that presses down on his friend. “He’s the last person you want advice from when it comes to love. He’s forgotten what it means to believe in it.” Jimin shoots another glare at Yoongi, who merely shrugs, unmoved.

Namjoon lets out a weary sigh. He likes you—no, more than likes you. Perhaps he’s even in love, but he’s still learning to come to terms with that revelation. What if telling you his feelings drives you away? What if, in confessing his heart, he loses the precious friendship you’ve built together? You, who’ve brought laughter and life into his days. He’s never been close to a human before, not like this, and the thought of losing you weighs heavier than the ocean above him. 

It’s not like he hasn’t ventured to land before, tasted fleeting moments with humans—flings that flickered out as quickly as they began. But this, you, feel different. And he’s in deep water now, uncertain of the way forward. It doesn’t matter to him that you’re human. If you were a mermaid, he doubts it would make things easier. What draws him to you isn’t your species, it’s your soul. 

It’s the way your hair dances in the wind, or how it clings to your skin when it’s soaked from the sea. The way your cheeks flush red, that soft blush that dusts even the bridge of your nose. The way bubbles rise and swirl around you when you dive beneath the waves, how your lashes flutter like the wings of a butterfly. The way your presence calms the storm inside him, as though you carry the quiet strength of the sea itself.

Yes, Namjoon thinks, his heart heavy with the undeniable truth. He’s got it bad.

“Hae, I don’t know what to do,” you sigh, the weight of indecision pressing down on you as you sit at the coffee shop, staring at the steam rising from your untouched cup. You feel like you could pull your hair out, frustration boiling inside as you wait for the coffee to cool, though it’s really your emotions that need calming.

The midday sunlight filters through the window, casting soft golden light over your table, but you can’t appreciate the warmth. Your mind is too restless. What are you supposed to do with these feelings?

“It’s actually quite simple,” Hae says, her tone far too casual for the magnitude of what you’re feeling. She takes a sip of her coffee—how does she drink it so scalding hot?—and you scoff softly, half out of envy, half in disbelief at how calm she seems. “You just have to talk to him.”

You groan, the sound louder than you intended, pulling curious glances from the tables around you. Embarrassed, you lower your voice, but the frustration lingers, tugging at your insides like a tangled knot. 

“It’s not that easy,” you say, pushing your coffee aside. “What if he doesn’t like me? What if I ruin everything between us?” Your voice drops to a whisper as your hands fall to your lap, palms sweaty and clammy. “How would it even work? He’s a merman, Hae. I... I’m just me.”

Hae raises an eyebrow, amused. “Girl—have you seriously not noticed the way he looks at you?”

You blink. “What do you mean? He looks at me... normal.”

She gives you a look that suggests you might be the most oblivious person on the planet. “Nah. He looks at you like he’s ready to drown in your eyes—like you’re his whole world.”

Her words hit you like a sudden wave, stealing your breath for a moment. Could she be right? You’ve never seen Namjoon look at you like that, at least not in a way you could recognize. 

“Really?” you whisper, unsure, heart fluttering with both hope and fear.

“Yes,” she emphasizes, laughing a little as she sets her cup down. “You’re kinda stupid for not noticing.”

You finally take a tentative sip of your now-warm coffee, trying to hide the way her words unravel you. As the warmth settles in your chest, your mind starts racing, replaying all the moments you’ve shared with Namjoon, all the times he’s looked at you, spoken to you with that gentle smile. Had there been something more in those glances? Had you been too blind to see it?

“You should confess your feelings,” Hae says, matter-of-fact, sipping her coffee like it’s the simplest thing in the world.

But it’s not that simple, not for you. The thought of baring your heart feels like standing at the edge of a precipice, with no way of knowing if there’s solid ground beneath you—or a fall. What if she’s wrong? What if you’re wrong? 

You shake your head slowly. “I don’t know if I can. What if I ruin our friendship? What if he doesn’t feel the same?”

Hae gives you a knowing look, but you’re already spiraling, lost in your own thoughts. Maybe... maybe you could watch him a little longer, try to see what she’s seeing, catch more evidence that there’s something there, something more. 

Because the risk of losing him over your feelings—that terrifies you more than anything.

It’s a few nights later, and the sea is a blanket of darkness as you and Hae venture out into its endless expanse. The sky above is nearly pitch black, save for the delicate shimmer of stars scattered like diamonds, casting faint light upon the inky water. The moon hangs low, its pale glow mirrored perfectly on the surface, creating a fragile bridge between the heavens and the sea. You pull Hae into a hug, murmuring your gratitude for her being here, for her unwavering companionship on this strange, otherworldly journey. She laughs softly, her voice breaking the silence of the night, and tells you she wouldn’t let you drown—not when she’s here to keep you safe. Her words bring a smile to your face, easing the quiet tension in your chest as you pull on your gear in the dark.

You slip into the water, the sea swallowing you whole. Beneath the surface, it’s as black as ink, the deep blue fading into a near-impenetrable navy that borders on oblivion. But there is no fear, only the pull of the unknown as you dive deeper, surrendering to the quiet pull of the ocean. Your breath is steady, your heartbeat louder in your ears than the sound of the waves above.

And then, there he is—Namjoon, his gentle smile waiting for you like a beacon in the depths, dimples carving softness into the darkness. His presence is steady, grounding, and for a moment, you forget you can’t speak, forgetting that the words you wish to say—I’m glad I’m here, thank you for this—are trapped behind the mask of your breathing gear.

Suddenly, his hand reaches for yours. The touch surprises you at first, a flicker of warmth against the cold of the sea, sending a soft spark up your arm, a silent current that makes your heart stutter. But then you relax into it, realizing how right it feels—his hand in yours, the silent understanding between you. It’s just a hand, you remind yourself, but even the smallest gesture carries weight in the depths of the sea.

“It’s dark,” he gestures to your joined hands, his voice a whisper through the water. “I’ll guide you.” You notice, even in the dim light, how his eyes shift nervously, and if the ocean weren’t so dark, you’d swear there was a blush creeping across his cheeks.

Together, you swim deeper, your hand still clasped in his as the world around you begins to change. In the distance, something gleams—a glint of gold, faint but unmistakable. As you draw closer, it becomes more defined, taking shape as towering structures rise from the seafloor like monuments from another world. Tall, ancient buildings glitter beneath the water, their surfaces gleaming with gold, adorned in intricate lettering and symbols you can’t begin to decipher. The curves and arches remind you of something familiar, some echo of human architecture, though far grander and more ancient than anything you’ve ever seen. These aren’t just buildings—they’re castles, palaces from a forgotten fairy tale. Everything is bathed in the ethereal glow of bioluminescent light, soft blues and yellows emanating from plants that pulse like stars, making the entire city shimmer as if alive with magic. It’s breathtaking—otherworldly in its beauty—and you feel your breath catch in your throat, mesmerized by the impossible splendor before you. 

How many wonders exist beneath the surface, hidden from the world above? you think, the weight of it all is almost too much to grasp. That such a place could exist, a vast city of gold and light, thriving in the deep—how could you have never known?

“Welcome to Naraeum,” Namjoon says, his voice soft, gesturing toward the city center that teems with life. Merpeople of all shapes, colors, and ages drift through the streets, some lost in their own rhythms, others laughing and chatting, and children darting through the water in playful games. The whole scene is alive, vibrant, and full of warmth, and the sight of it fills you with something indescribable—joy, wonder, perhaps even belonging.

A smile spreads across your face, unbidden, as the reality of this magical place settles over you. For the first time, you feel like you’ve truly discovered something beyond the world you’ve known, something boundless and beautiful. And with Namjoon beside you, it feels like you’ve only just begun to understand its depths.

“This is the city hall,” Namjoon gestures toward the tallest of the castles, its golden spires reaching upward like fingers trying to touch the ocean’s surface. “The royal family lives there too.” His voice is soft, but there’s a weight to his words, something ancient and significant about the building that looms over the city like a silent guardian.

You glance at him, blinking, wishing you could ask more, the curiosity burning inside you. If only you could speak, but the water and the mouthpiece keep your questions trapped behind your lips. The tug of his hand interrupts your thoughts, and once again you’re being gently pulled deeper into the heart of Naraeum, where the city unfolds like a dream in slow motion.

The water sways with life—delicate kale and other greens move in rhythm with the gentle currents, shells glint beneath the sandy floor, and tiny crabs scuttle between the rocks, oblivious to your presence. Shoals of fish—bright yellow, orange, and black—dart past, their quicksilver bodies flashing through the twilight water. And now, the eyes of the merpeople are on you. Their gazes, curious and shimmering, follow you as you move through their world, and for the first time, you feel like a true visitor in a land not your own.

Three merpeople approach, their figures graceful and effortless in the water. One, a striking merman with a pink tail that shimmers like rose quartz in the dim light, looks you over with an intensity that makes you feel seen in a way both comforting and unfamiliar. You notice his hand intertwined with a mermaid beside him, her tail a stunning shade of purple that gleams like amethyst. Together, they are radiant, like a pair of jewels. They look perfect together, you think, a bit in awe of how seamlessly they belong to this world.

“This is ___?” the pink-tailed merman asks, his voice smooth, his eyes darting to Namjoon for confirmation.

Namjoon nods, and the mermaid smiles, her face brightening with warmth. “Pleased to meet you,” she says, her voice light like a melody. “I’m Soo-ah, and this is my fiancé, Seokjin.” You nod in response, acknowledging them with a smile behind your mouthpiece, feeling a sense of camaraderie in their presence.

But before you can speak—or even think of what to say—your eyes catch on the third figure. A dark-haired merman with a tail the color of midnight, streaked with gold that glimmers like starlight. His aura is different—colder, detached. His black eyes flicker over you briefly, then, with a dismissive scoff, he turns away, arms crossed over his chest as if to close himself off from the world. 

Namjoon sighs, his voice edged with irritation, “That’s Yoongi.” The name comes out rough, almost an apology. “He forgot to take the stick out of his ass today.”

You can’t help but chuckle, bubbles escaping from your mouthpiece, rising toward the surface like tiny pieces of joy. Even in this underwater kingdom, humor survives, softening the tension. But Yoongi, unmoved, swims off into the shadows, his figure disappearing into the vastness of the sea. 

“Don’t mind him,” Namjoon mutters, squeezing your hand a little tighter. “Come on, I want to show you the rest.”

Soo-ah and Seokjin swim alongside you as Namjoon leads you through the winding streets of the marketplace, stalls lined up like sentinels, though empty now in the quiet of night. The architecture is both foreign and familiar, illuminated by the soft glow of bioluminescent plants. Everything feels untouched by time, and yet alive with history. You pass the grand library next, its shelves filled with tomes both ancient and new, merfolk stories and human books resting side by side. You can almost feel the weight of untold stories and hidden lore that fills the space, waiting to be discovered.

Namjoon’s excitement builds as he takes you to a fitness center unlike anything you’ve ever seen—massive bars with stones at either end, weights crafted from various-sized rocks, and machines clearly designed for strength and agility in the water. It’s a glimpse into the life of these beings, how they build themselves in this weightless world.

After a while, Soo-ah and Seokjin bid you farewell, their presence a quiet comfort as they swim off together, leaving you alone with Namjoon. Your pulse quickens. His hand, still clasped in yours, feels warm even in the cold depths of the sea. The way he glances at you—those fleeting, secretive looks that you’ve caught out of the corner of your eye—makes your heart race even more. Hae’s words echo in your mind, whispering truths you’re not sure you’re ready to admit. 

Could it be? you wonder, as the two of you drift toward his home.

“This is my place,” he says softly, his voice reverberating through the water as he turns on the light—an iridescent seashell hanging from the ceiling that casts a gentle, pearlescent glow throughout the space. His home is carved into the heart of a cave, the walls smooth and cool to the touch, like the sea itself has shaped them over countless years. Your eyes fall on his bed, draped in what looks like a soft, inviting duvet, but as you get closer, you realize it’s woven from delicate strands of kelp, swaying ever so slightly in the currents. It’s an unexpected beauty, intricate and organic, like everything in this underwater world.

The longest wall is dominated by a towering bookshelf, its shelves lined with books, arranged meticulously by color and size. It’s mesmerizing, this ocean of stories he’s collected, and you can’t help but wonder what worlds and lives he’s explored within these pages. You want to tell him, to say how beautiful it all is—his home, his soul, him. But your words are trapped beneath the weight of the sea, tangled with the breathlessness of being in his presence. 

Your fingertips brush the spines of the books, imagining all the narratives they contain, each one another layer of who Namjoon is. You glance down at your joined hands—his fingers laced with yours, and in that quiet moment, you swear you can feel something electric passing between you. A pulse of warmth, a silent exchange of emotions you can’t speak. You want to kiss him, more than anything. The way he’s gazing at you, his eyes soft and full of something unspoken, the gentle curve of his lips hiding a blush you wish you could see more clearly.

But here, in this quiet cavern beneath the sea, there’s nothing you can do. You can’t ask him what you’re dying to know, can’t lean in and feel the warmth of his lips against yours, can’t tell him that you’re falling, deeply, helplessly. All you can do is float here, heart aching with the weight of everything unsaid. 

He clears his throat, nervously scratching the back of his head. His mouth opens as if he’s about to speak, then closes again. There’s something he wants to say, you can feel it, lingering in the air between you. He tries again, and this time his voice, soft and hesitant, finally breaks the silence. 

“Thank you for letting me show you my world.”

You squeeze his hand gently, pouring all the gratitude and affection you can’t voice into that single touch. You hope he feels it—the appreciation, the awe, the quiet longing you carry for him. And in that touch, you wish you could invite him into your world, share everything that you are with him, even though he’s been on land before. But you don’t know if he’d want that. You’ve never asked, never dared to imagine what it might be like to share your lives across these two worlds. You’re afraid to impose, afraid to hope too much.

The moment hangs fragile between you, but like all perfect moments, it begins to fade as reality presses in. You feel the pull of time, the reminder that you need to return to the surface. Namjoon feels it too. His eyes flicker with understanding as he leads you back out into the city, guiding you through the soft glow of bioluminescent lights, past the merpeople still moving gracefully through their midnight routines. 

The silence between you stretches as you swim toward the boat where Hae waits, but it’s not the kind of silence that weighs heavy. It’s filled with possibility, thick with everything you haven’t said. Your heart beats faster as you realize that, once you’re back above the water, you’ll have the chance to speak. To ask. The thought of it sends your pulse racing, a swirl of excitement and terror mixing in your chest. 

What if he doesn’t feel the same? The question spins through your mind, gnawing at the edges of your courage. But the way he looked at you, the way his hand feels in yours, gives you hope. And maybe—just maybe—that will be enough.

As you break the surface of the water, you push your goggles up to rest like a headband, feeling the cool night air kiss your damp skin. It’s crisp, almost electric, filling your lungs with a freshness that makes the world above feel more alive than ever. Namjoon surfaces beside you, offering you a soft smile, but your attention is caught by the subtle blush dusting his cheeks, a faint rose bloom in the moonlight. He seems hesitant, his uncertainty mirroring your own, as if you’re both standing on the edge of something vast and uncharted, too afraid to take that first leap.

For a heartbeat, he swims closer, his presence looming gently in your space. You hold your breath, your pulse quickening with the thought that he might—maybe—kiss you. Instinctively, you close your eyes, ready to surrender to that moment, but instead, his fingers brush your cheek, and he tucks a stray strand of hair behind your ear with such tenderness it sends a wave of warmth through your body. His touch lingers, delicate and deliberate, and though it wasn’t the kiss you imagined, it makes you blush all the same. The heat rises to your cheeks, flooding you with a mixture of longing and disappointment.

But then something stirs within you—some reckless courage sparked by his closeness—and before you can think it through, you lean in. Your lips find his, a soft, quick kiss, almost like a whisper. It’s gentle, just a peck, but his lips are warm, softer than you ever imagined, like the sea breeze caressing your skin on a summer evening. 

When you pull away, you see the surprise flicker in his eyes for just a moment before his features soften into something tender and full of quiet affection. His ears burn red in the moonlight, and his dimples deepen as he gazes at you with a look that leaves you breathless. His brown eyes—dark and shimmering, like polished amber—glow with something more, something deeper. You think, just for a second, it’s desire, simmering beneath his calm exterior.

“Thank you for tonight,” you whisper, your voice barely carrying over the soft lapping of the waves. You squeeze his hand, feeling the warmth and strength of him, and smile. “It was so beautiful.”

Namjoon doesn’t speak; he simply looks at you, his dragon-like eyes full of quiet intensity, his dimples softening the tension in the air. It’s a look that makes your heart skip, that holds a thousand unsaid words between you. And as you reluctantly pull away, swimming toward the boat, your mind is still spinning from the kiss, from the closeness, from everything left unspoken.

Hae pulls you up into the boat, and as you sit, catching your breath, you catch her sly grin. You know she saw everything—the kiss, the blush, the way Namjoon looked at you—but for now, she stays silent, letting the moment hang in the air. You wave to Namjoon, watching as he offers one last gentle smile before disappearing back into the deep, dark waters, the night swallowing him whole.

And even as the waves settle, your heart still swells, full of the hope and mystery that the night—and Namjoon—left behind.

The days pass in a blur of anxious thoughts, your heart heavy with doubt. Every dive into the ocean feels colder without a trace of Namjoon, and the silence is deafening. Each time you resurface alone, your mind spirals further into uncertainty. Did you overstep? The kiss lingers on your lips, but now you wonder if it was a mistake. It feels as if he’s vanished into the depths, leaving you adrift. Is he avoiding me? The question gnaws at you, twisting your insides. Maybe this is his way of saying he doesn’t feel the same, that he wants nothing more to do with you.

Hae, ever the caring friend, drags you to a fancy restaurant in an attempt to soothe your restless mind, insisting that you’re worrying yourself to death. You look like a dog that’s been kicked, she had said with a shake of her head, trying to make you laugh. But now, as you sit across from her, poking at the salad you barely have the appetite to eat, the weight of your uncertainty presses down even harder. Your stomach twists with every bite, the anxiety clinging to you like a shadow.

“Maybe he’s just busy, or caught up in merfolk stuff?" Hae suggests, her voice light, trying to pry you from the dark corners of your thoughts. But your mind won’t let you escape. Busy? No, your treacherous thoughts whisper, he’s avoiding you—he’s forgotten you, and the kiss meant nothing.

You say nothing, only stabbing your fork into the salad with a kind of quiet fury, each jab into the leaves an outlet for the storm brewing inside you.

“Uh, ___?” Hae’s voice breaks the tension, but you barely lift your head. She stumbles over her words, clearly uneasy, her tone cautious as she leans in closer. “There’s a man—blue hair—he’s looking at us.”

At her words, something stirs in you, curiosity overriding the anger for just a moment. Blue hair? Your heart skips a beat, and before you can stop yourself, you turn around, almost instinctively, as though drawn by an invisible thread. Your gaze collides with a pair of deep, brown eyes that hold all the mystery of the ocean. Namjoon.

His eyes glisten like the sea at dawn, reflecting both depth and tenderness, swirling with something unspoken—regret, maybe even desire. You swallow hard, feeling the magnetic pull that has always existed between you, but this time, it’s stronger. The air around you thickens as he walks toward the table, his presence unmistakable, sending your pulse into a wild rhythm.

“Hi, Y/N,” he says, his voice soft, laced with an apology that doesn’t need to be spoken yet. The smile he offers is gentle, almost shy, and you can see the guilt in the way his eyes search yours. He knows. He knows he shouldn’t have disappeared without a word.

“Hi, Namjoon,” you manage to reply, the sound of his name on your lips stirring something deep inside you—something that’s a mixture of relief and frustration. You’re a little mad, of course you are. But as your heart races, you know you can’t stay angry with him, not when he’s standing there with that look in his eyes. He’s here now. And that’s enough for your heart to forgive him.

Your eyes travel down to his legs—strong, toned, perfectly human. He’s traded the water for the land, just for you, standing there in beige shorts like it’s the most natural thing in the world. And yet, your mind spins with the impossibility of it all, as if he’s a dream made flesh, and part of you still can’t believe he’s really here.

The air between you is thick with unspoken words, a tension that seems to ripple like the sea itself. Namjoon scratches the back of his head, his eyes shifting with uncertainty. “I’m sorry I’ve been gone,” he begins, his voice low and sincere. “I didn’t mean to disappear like that, but something happened in Naraeum—”

Before he can finish, the weight of your own anxiety breaks through, forcing the words from your chest. “I thought you didn’t like me, or just forgot about me.” The admission tumbles out, raw and trembling, the very fear that has haunted you for days finally taking shape between you. As soon as the words leave your lips, you feel exposed, vulnerable. You brace yourself for his response.

For a moment, he just stares, his expression frozen in disbelief, like your words have knocked the wind out of him. Then, his face softens, eyes wide with something close to shock. “Baby, no,” he says with a dismissive wave of his hand, the nickname slipping from his lips so naturally that it sends a flutter of warmth through your chest. He steps closer, worry etched in every line of his face as his gaze falls on you, sitting there with your heart in your throat.

Baby?

“I’d never forget about you,” he continues, his voice trembling slightly as he bites his lower lip, as if trying to hold something back. The intimacy of that small gesture makes your breath catch.

Hae clears her throat opposite you, breaking the charged moment. She rises from her seat, her chair scraping loudly against the floor, drawing both your gazes toward her flushed face. “Namjoon, please, take my seat and talk. I’ll go home and shower this tension off,” she says, her tone teasing but kind.

You open your mouth to protest, but then close it, realizing she’s right. The tension is palpable, thick as the ocean depths, and part of you is grateful for the space she’s offering. Even though nerves twist inside you like a storm, you know this is a conversation you need to have.

As Hae leaves, Namjoon sits down across from you, his eyes soft and apologetic. “I’m sorry I worried you, baby,” he murmurs, leaning forward slightly. His hands rest on the table, inching closer to yours, like he’s afraid to cross that final distance too soon.

There’s that word again—baby—and it stirs something deep inside you, butterflies rising in your chest, fluttering wildly, desperate to escape. It’s more than just a nickname; it’s a promise, a reassurance that melts the cold fear that has been gnawing at you for days.

“It’s okay,” you reply, your voice softer now, the storm inside you beginning to calm. “My mind just... got the better of me.” Your gaze flickers to where his fingers hover near yours, and your heart beats wildly at the nearness of him.

Namjoon is here, in front of you, and you realize with a quiet, overwhelming relief—he’s never really been gone.

“I could never not like you,” Namjoon murmurs, his voice dipping lower, softer, as if the truth is too delicate to be spoken aloud. “I think I... love you,” he finishes, the last words barely audible, yet they linger in the air between you like a fragile secret.

Did he just say love? Your heart stumbles, and for a moment, you forget to breathe. “You do?” you ask, your voice trembling with disbelief, your pulse fluttering wildly in your chest. Could it be real? Could he feel the same way?

A flicker of uncertainty dances across your mind, and you can’t help but press further, needing clarity. “Wait—do you think, or do you know?” Your question is gentle, but it carries the weight of hope, a hope that has been simmering beneath the surface for so long.

Namjoon smiles at himself, a soft laugh escaping his lips. “Sorry,” he says, the sincerity in his eyes unmistakable. “I know. I know I love you.”

Time seems to slow, the world slipping into a dreamlike state where everything feels soft, suspended, as if wrapped in the warm glow of your shared confession. The air between you feels charged, but also tender, like the fragile moment before the first petal falls. You can feel it now—he’s there with you, and this love, this real thing, is finally mutual.

You reach out, taking his hands in yours, and lean in closer. “I love you too, Namjoon,” you whisper, the words feeling both daring and true.

For a moment, silence settles between you, but it’s a comfortable silence—one filled with the weight of what’s just been said. His hazel eyes, flecked with warmth and softness, hold yours, and you swear you could drown in them. Drown and never wish to come up for air.

The pull between you is magnetic, and before you can stop yourself, the words slip out, unfiltered and bold. “Do you... want to come see my place?” The second the words leave your mouth, heat rushes to your cheeks. The invitation is brazen, filled with unspoken implications, but you know it’s what you want—all of him, not just this moment, but something more, something deeper.

Namjoon’s breath catches, and he stands, his gaze never leaving yours. “Yes, baby,” he replies in a voice that is almost a whisper, but carries the weight of everything he feels. That one word—baby—sends shivers spiraling down your spine, and you bite your lip, holding back a smile.

Hand in hand, you walk together through the quiet night, the cool air a stark contrast to the warmth building between you. You don’t need words now; the simple contact of his hand in yours is enough, grounding you as you lean into his strong frame. It feels so natural, as if you’ve always been walking beside him, as if this was always meant to happen.

When you reach your apartment, you fumble for the keys, unlocking the door with a nervous flutter in your chest. As the door swings open, you flick on the light, and for a moment, you glance around, hoping he won’t find your space too cluttered or small. You’d cleaned just the day before, but still, anxiety lingers.

Namjoon steps inside, his eyes roaming the space, but he doesn’t say a word. Instead, he looks at you, his gaze heavy with something unspoken, something that makes your heart race. His hand tightens around yours, and you feel yourself being pulled further into his orbit, like gravity drawing you closer.

You look up at him, studying the moles that dot his skin, noticing the way his features are softened by the low light. He’s so close, and in this moment, with his warm eyes on yours and his hand gently holding yours, you think—this is what it means to truly be seen, to truly be wanted. And God, does he look so handsome.

Then, without hesitation, he dives in, his lips crashing into yours with a desperate, urgent need. The moment you let out a soft moan against his mouth, he releases your hand, now free to explore you. Both of his hands cup your cheeks tenderly, yet with a fierceness that pulls you deeper into him. The kiss consumes you, leaving you feeling like water melting in his palms—soft, fluid, and utterly surrendered. His lips tease yours, grazing them in a way that demands more, and when he seeks entrance, you grant it willingly. Your tongues meet in a slow, intoxicating rhythm, moving like waves crashing together under a moonlit sea.

Another moan escapes you, and you feel heat pooling deep inside, a yearning that’s overwhelming. And it’s only a kiss—yet it has you unraveling like a ribbon coming loose.

When he finally pulls away, his gaze locks onto yours, desire simmering in the air between you, thick and electric. “Baby, I want you so bad,” he breathes, his lips curling into a soft pout that makes your heart melt. How does he look both fierce and endearing at once?

You can’t help but smile, your own need burning just as fiercely. “Me too... Please call me ‘baby’ more,” you whisper, fluttering your lashes as you cling to the warmth in his eyes. “I love it.”

He chuckles, the sound like a low rumble of thunder. “Oh, I’ve noticed,” he says, amused. “Every time I call you ‘baby,’ your eyes dilate.”

You didn’t know that, but you feel the truth of it—the way that simple word makes your heart race, how it draws you even closer to him, making you crave more.

“I want you...” You pause, feeling the boldness rise within you, “I want you to fuck me.” Your voice is breathless, your gaze holding his with an unspoken plea.

Namjoon grins, a softness creeping into his eyes. “Oh, baby, I’m going to make love to you,” he whispers, and the words are like honey dripping slow and thick. “Don’t you worry,” he adds, his lips capturing yours again with a hunger that makes your head spin.

Each kiss sends you spiraling further into him, your sanity slipping, but God, you love every second of it. It strikes you then how much of a romantic he is, how the passion in his touch mirrors the stories he loves in his books.

He pulls back, his breath hot against your lips. “Where’s your bedroom?” he asks with a playful chuckle.

You point, and before you can say another word, his strong hands find your waist, lifting you effortlessly. You wrap your legs around him, straddling his hips as he carries you across the room. He opens the bedroom door with a sweep of his foot, not bothering with the light, and gently lowers you onto the bed. Laughter bubbles between you, soft and sweet, as his lips claim yours again in a kiss that is both feverish and tender.

Your fingers tangle in his blue hair, tugging at the strands, and he hisses in pleasure, the sound sending shivers racing down your spine. He grinds against you, his erection pressing firmly against your core, and you feel yourself unraveling again, melting beneath him. God, he feels big, you think, your body aching to know him, to feel him completely.

Your hands move to the hem of his shirt, your fingers brushing against his skin as you tug the fabric upward, longing to see his bare chest again. You know what lies beneath—his broad, muscular frame, every inch of him beautifully sculpted, chest rising and falling with each breath. And you need to touch him, to feel his strength beneath your hands.

In this moment, nothing else matters—just him, you, and the gravity of everything that has led you here.

He pulls away, sensing exactly what you want, and in one fluid motion, grabs the hem of his shirt, peeling it off in a way that feels almost sinful. The sight of him should be illegal—holy hell, the way his muscles flex as he undresses is enough to take your breath away.

Your hands move instinctively, drawn to the expanse of his chest, a perfect blend of softness and strength. The skin beneath your fingers is warm, and the way he feels—solid, yet yielding—is intoxicating.

“Like what you see?” he teases, his voice low and full of that gentle confidence, and you can only gape at him, feeling the warmth of your admiration blossom into something deeper.

“God, Namjoon, you’ve always been beautiful... inside and out,” you murmur, your voice filled with reverence, because while his looks are striking, it’s his soul that captivates you.

His lips curve into a soft smile, his gaze tender as he leans down, brushing light kisses along the curve of your neck. The sensation sends waves of laughter bubbling out of you, light and breathless, as the tickle of his lips spreads joy and heat all at once. He keeps moving lower, trailing kisses down your body like a map only he knows how to navigate.

When he reaches the waistband of your pants, he pauses, eyes flicking up to meet yours, his breath warm against your skin. “Can I?” he asks, his voice both eager and gentle.

“Yes,” you whisper, and as he unbuttons your pants, you arch your back to help him slide them off, heart racing. He pauses again, staring for a moment, captivated by the sight of you, the evidence of your desire already showing.

“You’re so wet, baby,” he says, his voice hushed and full of wonder. “All for me?”

You nod, breath hitching, your body already trembling with need. “Yes, Joon. You make me so damn wet,” you pant, writhing beneath him, desperate for more. “Please, just touch me.”

His gaze darkens with lust as he licks his lips, then dips his head lower, trailing kisses across your stomach, inching closer to where you need him most. Every touch sends sparks of pleasure through you, and you giggle softly, unable to contain the lightness you feel even as desire coils tighter within you. His lips press against the hem of your lace panties, nothing extravagant, yet he looks at you like you’re the most exquisite thing he’s ever seen.

With agonizing slowness, he hooks his fingers into the waistband, pulling them down with deliberate care. The cool air of your apartment contrasts sharply with the warmth between your thighs, and you gasp, aching for him. You feel exposed, vulnerable, but in the most delicious way—his gaze heavy with desire as he takes you in.

“Joonie…” you moan softly, voice trembling, as his eyes linger on your glistening pussy, admiring you. You wonder if he finds you beautiful like this, spread bare before him, and his awestruck expression tells you everything.

“Damn,” he whispers, voice thick with astonishment. “You’re so pretty… already dripping with need.”

Your breath catches as his words wash over you, and when he asks, “Can I taste you? Can I touch you?” you can barely manage a nod as you spread your legs wider, inviting him in.

“Please,” you beg, feeling delirious with want, every nerve in your body alight with anticipation.

His touch is featherlight at first, a single finger brushing over your swollen clit, sending a sharp jolt of pleasure through you. You flinch, already overly sensitive, a gasp falling from your lips as your body responds immediately.

“More,” you plead, rolling your hips into his hand, urging him to press harder, to give you what you crave.

His fingers glide over you, warm and sure, stroking your slick skin with precision. Every movement sets off another spark, and a moan escapes you—high-pitched, breathy, and filled with need. His touch is both tender and demanding, and with every stroke, you feel yourself unraveling, caught in the storm of pleasure.

His fingers continue their rhythm, rolling over your sensitive clit with perfect precision, each movement making it throb with want. Your body reacts instinctively, hips rising to meet his touch, chasing more—chasing everything. You need all of him, and the craving is almost unbearable.

Namjoon watches you with an intensity that makes your pulse quicken, his eyes filled with both desire and wonder as he works you with his fingers, and then, slowly, his lips find the tender skin of your inner thigh. His kisses are featherlight, but they leave a trail of fire in their wake, and you tremble under his touch. With each kiss, he moves closer, until finally, his mouth finds your pussy, his warm tongue lapping at your slick folds, tasting you with reverence.

He groans, the sound vibrating against your core, and your hands instinctively tangle in his hair, pulling him closer, as if you want him to drown in your pleasure. His tongue flicks over your sensitive nub, teasing, tasting, and the sensation makes your whole body tense in anticipation. His fingers slide to your entrance, probing gently before slipping inside, one at a time. The stretch feels divine, his fingers curling to reach deeper, and soon two, then three fill you, stretching you in the most perfect, delicious way.

Your toes curl, your breath comes in ragged gasps as you feel the wave of your climax building, rising with every flick of his tongue, every stroke of his fingers. “Joon,” you gasp, a warning, but he only sucks harder, his lips and tongue working in tandem as his fingers thrust deeper, hitting that spot inside you that sends you spiraling.

The world tilts, and your back arches as the orgasm crashes through you, white-hot and electric. You thrash beneath him, pulling at his hair as pleasure floods your body, and all you can do is moan his name in a broken, breathless whisper. Even as your body shudders, he doesn’t stop, his mouth still on your clit, drawing out every last wave until you’re trembling with overstimulation. You tap his shoulder weakly, and finally, he pulls back, his face glistening with your slick, eyes dark with satisfaction.

“So pretty,” he murmurs, his hand brushing softly over your thigh, leaving a trail of goosebumps in its wake. His touch is light, reverent, and though you’re still floating in the bliss of your release, you feel the need to return the favor rise within you.

“Let me take care of you,” you whisper, your voice thick with desire as you shift, pushing him down beside you. He opens his mouth to protest, but the words are swallowed by a low groan as you straddle his lap, feeling the hard bulge of his cock press against your wet core. You grind down on him, teasing him with the friction, and he lets out a ragged moan that makes your pulse quicken.

“I just want to make you feel good,” you murmur, pressing a kiss to his lips, tasting yourself on him. “I don’t know how mermen make love, but as humans—I want you to feel good too.”

He chuckles softly, his hands resting on your hips, eyes dark with hunger. “It’s definitely not the same,” he admits, voice low and breathless, and that’s all the encouragement you need. You slide down his lap to the floor, your eyes locked on his, your intentions clear.

Your fingers find the waistband of his shorts, and he helps you pull them down, revealing his muscular thighs. When you see the thick outline of his cock straining against his boxers, your mouth waters, anticipation making your pulse quicken. Tugging down the last barrier, you free him, and his cock springs forward, thick and long, the head flushed red with need. A bead of precum glistens at the tip, and your breath hitches at the sight of him, hunger twisting deep inside you.

You lick your lips, your hands moving with purpose—one resting on his thigh, the other wrapping around the thick base of his shaft, feeling the weight of him in your palm. Slowly, you begin to pump, your fingers sliding over the velvety skin as you build a steady rhythm.

Namjoon groans, the sound so deep it reverberates through your core, and you can feel him tense beneath your touch, his body reacting to every stroke. His groans are like music, deep and sinful, and they make you want to push him further, to hear more of those primal, desperate sounds spill from his lips.

Damn, you need more of him.

You glance up at him, mischief in your eyes as you give a playful wink before taking him into your mouth. The taste is salty, a mix of his precum and something else, something almost elemental, as if the sea still clings to him. It sends a shiver down your spine, urging you to lose yourself in the act. You move with intent, your lips and tongue working in unison, breathing deeply through your nose as you take him deeper, each stroke making his body tremble beneath you.

He gasps your name, his voice barely a whisper, like it’s the only thing tethering him to the moment. His hands find their way to your hair, gentle, not controlling—just resting there as if he’s entranced by the sight of you. He glances down, watching the way your mouth moves over him, and his breath quickens, as if the very air has become too thin.

“Fuck,” he groans, voice strained, “you’re so damn good at this.”

You smirk inwardly, already knowing, but the praise sends a thrill through you. There’s something intoxicating about the way he fills your mouth, the way you feel him pulse against your tongue. It makes you wonder how your pussy will take him, how it’ll feel when he’s buried deep inside you, stretching you wide.

You’re making a mess of him—your saliva slicks his length, dripping down onto the sheets—but you don’t care. Not when he’s like this, writhing beneath you, his muscles taut with need. Your hand moves lower, cupping his balls, rolling them gently in your palm, and you feel them tighten as he draws closer to the edge.

“Damn,” he rasps, voice rough with desire, “you look and feel so fucking amazing.”

The sound of his praise sends another wave of heat rushing through you, making you wetter, a needy ache building low in your belly. You take him deeper, determined, your throat tightening as you try to swallow him down. But your gag reflex protests, and you pull back slightly, not wanting to push too far. Instead, you focus on teasing the head, your tongue circling slowly before flicking across his sensitive frenulum. He groans sharply, his hips jerking, and you can’t help the soft giggle that escapes you.

He’s unraveling, his control slipping, and you love it—love the power you hold over him in this moment, love seeing him lost in you.

Suddenly, his hands come to your cheeks, stilling your movements as he looks down at you with hooded eyes, his chest heaving with shallow breaths. “Baby,” he rasps, his voice thick with both lust and affection, “you’re dangerous with that mouth. If you keep going, I’m going to come right down your throat… and I want to make love and come inside you.”

You release him with a soft pop, a teasing smirk playing on your lips as you lick them slowly, savoring the taste of him. “You can always come down my throat later,” you murmur, your voice low and sultry. Rising to your feet, you peel off your shirt, followed by the clasp of your bra, letting it fall to the floor. Your breasts spill free, and the heat in Namjoon’s gaze intensifies as his hands instinctively find your hips, his grip firm yet tender.

“Is every inch of you just perfect?” he breathes, awe in his voice. The compliment sends a flush of warmth to your cheeks, and you chuckle softly, not answering because his words feel rhetorical, like they’re part of the worship that’s building between you.

Instead, you lean down to kiss him, pouring every bit of your desire into it. His cock twitches beneath you, hard and throbbing against your thighs, but you take your time, savoring the kiss—long, slow, and tender. You straddle him, hovering just above his cock, your body aching to sink down, to feel him inside you. But instead, you pause, letting yourself get lost in the depth of his gaze, his eyes like molten gold, swirling with emotion.

He kisses you again, his lips soft but insistent, and in that moment, you feel weightless. Like you’re floating, caught in a current, drifting between pleasure and affection. You feel cherished, like a treasure he’s unearthed from the depths of the ocean—glimmering, precious, and adored like the gems you’ve been collecting.

He groans, a deep, feral sound vibrating from his chest, and his hands tighten around your hips, the pressure promising bruises that’ll bloom as tender reminders of this moment. “I don’t know what you’re doing to me, baby,” he pants, his eyes dark and hooded with lust, as if he’s trying to memorize every curve of your face. His lips search for yours, hungry, desperate to close the space between you again.

“Likewise,” you breathe out, your voice shaky, your pulse racing. One of your hands trails down his body, fingers grazing his taut abdomen before wrapping around the thick length of him. You lift yourself slightly, feeling the heat of him against you. Just as you’re about to guide him inside, his deep voice cuts through the haze of desire.

“Should we use a condom?” he asks, his words momentarily shattering the tension, leaving the air thick but still.

You blink, slightly caught off guard, but quickly recover. “We don’t have to,” you murmur, sensing his hesitation. His brow furrows, so you add, “I have an IUD, and I’m clean. It’s… it’s been a long time for me.” Your words taper off, embarrassment creeping into your cheeks, suddenly feeling vulnerable beneath his gaze.

He studies you for a second, his expression softening before that same, dark hunger returns. “Okay, I just wanted to make sure,” he rumbles, his voice like molten velvet, sending shivers racing down your spine. The sound of him, the depth of his tone, makes your body respond instinctively—your pussy clenches with anticipation, aching for him to fill the emptiness inside you. “It’s been a long time for me, too. So, I’m sorry if I don’t last long…”

You shake your head, silencing his concern with a gaze that speaks louder than words. You need him, now. The heat between you both is unbearable, every second a sweet kind of torture. You guide the head of his cock to your entrance, teasing yourself by gliding him along your folds, feeling his hardness slick against your wetness, sending delicious tremors through your body.

Slowly, you position him at your opening and sink down.

The stretch is exquisite—a burn that ignites every nerve as he fills you inch by glorious inch. He’s thick, and the sensation of him sliding deeper feels like nothing you’ve ever known. Your breath catches in your throat, and you swear you hear him curse under his breath, his grip on your hips tightening as he savors the feel of your walls closing around him.

“Fuck…,” he groans, his voice wrecked, vibrating through you like a shockwave. “So damn tight.”

“Yeah…” you pant, your head spinning, your body adjusting to his size. Inch by agonizing inch, until finally, he’s fully seated inside you. You pause, trembling, your insides fluttering as he twitches deep within. You let out a soft moan, your lips searching for his in a fevered kiss, one that feels more like a collision than anything tender.

When you pull away, your gaze locks with his, your voice barely above a whisper. “You feel so fucking good… like you’ve always belonged there.”

He hums in response, his eyes half-lidded with pleasure as he traces your body with his hands, unable to take in enough of you. “You’re perfect,” he breathes, the words low and reverent.

Bracing your hands on his broad shoulders, you lift yourself slowly, your body trembling with anticipation. Then, with a burst of need, you slam down, impaling yourself on his cock, a scream of pleasure ripping from your throat. Namjoon moans, the sound guttural and raw, as you ride him with renewed vigor, losing yourself in the rhythm.

Your breasts bounce with each thrust, catching his attention, and without hesitation, his hands move to cup them. His lips trail down to one nipple, his mouth warm and eager as he takes it between his lips. You gasp at the sensation, a surge of heat flooding your core, and you feel a gush of wetness coat him as your body responds to his touch. You didn’t realize you’d come until the tremors hit, your pussy clenching tightly around him, your body quivering in waves of pleasure.

His tongue circles your nipple, flicking it gently before his teeth graze the sensitive bud, and the sensation sends you spiraling. Your breath stutters as he switches to your other breast, his hands roaming, kneading your skin, every touch heightening the electricity between you. Just as his mouth closes around your other nipple, his teeth accidentally bite down harder than intended, and a sharp cry escapes your lips—his name, ripped from your throat like a plea and a curse all at once.

He freezes, eyes wide, concern flashing across his face. But the look you give him—wild, consumed with lust—tells him everything he needs to know.

“I’m so fucking sorry—,” he gasps, but his words barely register through the haze of pleasure clouding your mind. Your gaze softens, your eyes half-lidded with desire, a gentle delirium swirling in their depths.

“No, no, it was good, Joonie,” you whisper, your voice a breathy melody. Your hand drifts to the nape of his neck, fingers tangling in the damp strands of his hair, tugging lightly. “I loved it.”

He pauses, a chuckle rumbling from deep within his chest, and you feel the twitch of his cock still buried inside you, a silent promise of more. His lips descend to your chest again, worshipping your skin with slow, languid kisses. His tongue finds your nipple, teasing it with a delicate flick before sucking, nipping just enough to make you moan his name, the sound a song on your lips.

Your body trembles, another orgasm crashing over you like a summer storm, your walls tightening around him in waves of bliss. He groans, a low, primal sound vibrating through your entire being. “Fuck, you—” His voice breaks with need as he rises from the bed, lifting you effortlessly, his body still entwined with yours. In one swift motion, he turns and lays you back down, pressing you into the sheets, his hips surging forward with raw intensity.

“This fucking pussy,” he growls, the words so feral, so laced with hunger that it sends a jolt of heat through you, your toes curling as your body responds to the deep, relentless thrusts. You moan, overwhelmed by the sensation of being pushed up the bed, your fingers gripping the sheets in desperation. Could you come again? Already, your body is teetering on the edge, caught in the rhythm of his passion.

He leans down, his breath hot against your ear. “You look so gorgeous, baby,” he rasps, each word dripping with lust as his hips drive into you again, leaving you breathless, your chest heaving as though all the air has been stolen from your lungs.

“Are you gonna come again?” he asks, his voice rough with need. You bite your lip, uncertain if you can, but the fire in your core tells you otherwise. Your hand slips between your bodies, fingers seeking out your clit. Everything is so slick, so impossibly wet, but you manage to find that perfect rhythm, circling the sensitive nub as your breath hitches in your throat.

It’s like the tide pulling you under—a tidal wave of pleasure crashing over you with blinding force. Your orgasm overtakes you, your body shaking beneath him as you cry out his name, each syllable a desperate plea, a prayer to the god of ecstasy. You thrash beneath him, lost in the throes of release, and still, he keeps thrusting, deep and deliberate, as your body flutters around him, the aftershocks rippling through you.

“Fuck, that was so hot,” he groans, his voice thick with desire as his cock twitches inside you, on the edge of release. “I’m not gonna last much longer.” With a final, powerful thrust, he spills into you, his warm seed filling you as his orgasm hits him hard, his body trembling with the force of it. His face—god, it’s beautiful in this moment—the way his lips part, how his brow furrows in pleasure, how he keeps moving, riding out the last waves of his climax until he begins to soften inside you.

Both of you are left panting, gasping for air like you’ve surfaced from the depths of the sea. He collapses beside you, pulling you close, your bodies still warm, still trembling. Your chests rise and fall in sync, the silence between you heavy with shared satisfaction.

“That was amazing,” he murmurs, his voice a soft rasp against your ear.

You chuckle, cheeks flushed and glowing. “Yes… we should definitely do that again.”

He turns on his side, his fingers brushing your arm tenderly as he gazes at you, eyes filled with warmth. “We really should.”

But then, out of nowhere, a ripple of anxiety courses through you, tightening your chest. You turn to him, your heart suddenly heavy. “Can we really make this work?” you ask, your voice small, vulnerable. “You, being a merman… and me, human?”

Namjoon’s expression softens, his gaze tender as he leans in, pressing a gentle kiss to the tip of your nose. His hands trace soothing circles along your back, grounding you in the moment. “Yes,” he whispers, his voice filled with quiet certainty. “Don’t worry, baby. We’ll make it work. We have to.”

In his arms, wrapped in the warmth of his embrace, the world feels possible again.

→ Taglist: @allie-is-a-panda @jeonsbabygirlsworld @bangtannie7 @suker4angst → Disclaimer: the banner is obviously partly made with AI— I just want to point that out, to clear the air. I’d normally never use AI in my work, but for this specific fantasy series, I just came up really sort with making them myself with pre existing images of bangtan 😭 Because I want a certain aesthetic (no, a moodboard is not what I was looking for), I decided to use AI to crunch out the merman— I did not, and I repeat this, I did not write any of their names for the prompts, which is also why I do not want to show any faces in these banners, because I know how the guys feel about making AI with them, and I agree. Which is why, this is in short just generically made images that are prompted by a scene in the story. In the end, I still made the banner— did retouching, color grading, added and/or removed stuff, added background etc. Just to let you know. Normally, all my banners and graphics are made by me, unless otherwise stated! (lol, what I mean here is that I’m making them myself, I still sometimes use stock photos and vectors made by others in my work (the banners)). → Author’s note(2): Only four mermaid stories left now! 🥳I hope you’ll like the other ones as well, and please let me know what you liked; you’re always welcome to leave me a comment, a reblog or an ask 🥰 Thank you so much for reading, love you 💜

[notwiselybuttoowell]

Ellensburg Blue Agate - 3rd rarest gemstone in the world, being only found in Kittitas County in Washington State

[justinesketches]

#TDPtober Day 01: Crown 👑

"I find that nothing cheers a person up quite like a hat made out of the rarest gemstones in Xadia."

[shall-we-die]

╔‌‌‌‌•°🍰༄•°══════════•⊰•°༄༚

{HBD Dear MC!~}

A list of gifts they gonna give you 🎁

╞•⊰❖⊱•═══•༻🎂༺•═══•⊰❖⊱•╡

☰[Main list]•⊰ X Obey me!

#Part 1 📍 || #Part 2 || #Part 3 || #Part 4

╚•°🍰༄•°══════════•⊰•°༄༚‌‌‌

[Lucifer]:

A piece of music he composed, a bouquet of rare black roses, a vintage vinyl record of his favorite music genre, a handwritten letter and a necklace with a pendant.

[Mammon]:

A brand new car, an expensive watch, a gold necklace and the most expensive set of jewelry he could find. (With the help of Lucifer’s money of course)

[Leviathan]:

A signed rare copy of his favorite anime and manga series, rare figurines of his favorite characters, and a handmade bracelet made out of real gemstones.

[Satan]:

A box of homemade pastries that would always refill and never run out, a leather-bound notebook filled with his best poetry and a ring with a ruby attached to it.

[Asmodeus]:

A luxury spa package, his favorite book series and a perfume set that contained all his favorite scents.

[Beelzebub]:

A home cooked dinner, a bottle of champagne and a jar of his special honey.

[Belphegor]:

A big cuddly teddy bear, a warm blanket and pillows and, a big pillow-shaped chocolate cake.

[Diavolo]:

An exclusive tour of the Demon King’s castle, a luxurious robe and a box of sweets.

[Barbatos]:

A personal day out with him at his favorite places, a bottle of expensive tea and a vintage-style fountain pen.

[Simeon]:

A bouquet of rare pink roses and peonies, a box of chocolates as well as his homemade cookies, and a framed letter.

[Solomon]:

A handwritten book filled with magical spells and runes, a new spellbook which he designed himself, and a bottle of the rarest and most unique wine there is.

[Luke]:

A box set of his favorite stories, a new plushie and a box of his delicious pancakes.

[Raphael]:

A handmade sweater, a basket with all his favorite herbal teas and spices, and a box of his most precious herbs and plants.

[Mephistopheles]:

A box filled with all his favorite rare books, a handmade ceramic mug and a handcrafted blanket.

[Thirteen]:

A framed photo of the two of you together, a handmade plushie with all her favorite features and a big box of chocolates.

[dira333]

Oh No (I think I'm in Love) - Cove Holden x Reader

It's trying something new-Hour... this is for you, @6okuto

“You were a strange person in a strange place but, in that moment, you were exactly what I needed. Somebody I could talk to freely about what was happening and how it made me feel. And you listened to me, you stayed with me.”

-

“I really like that dress on you,” Cove calls out as you step out of the house, one hand on your straw hat to keep it from flying away.

You’ve already learned that he’ll say anything on his mind, his compliments always sincere. Warmth rises to your cheeks.

“Thanks,” you press through your teeth, unable to look at him for a second. When you do though, you regret it immediately. The summer sun makes his hair look like it’s been woven out of the rarest gemstones.

“You look good too,” you tell him, an understatement if you’ve ever heard one.

He blushes a furious red.

-

“Hey, look at that!” Cove has surfaced next to you, his bright hair clinging to his face in the weirdest shapes. His eyes are alight as he shows you a seashell, its perfection.

“I want you to have it,” he insists, pressing it into your hands with flushed cheeks. You know there’s more to it than just a gift.

You take it, swallowing down feelings you can’t yet name, tucking it under the hem of your bikini top. 

“I want to give you something too,” you tell him, escaping his words by dipping back in, searching the ground for something equally as beautiful.

It takes you half the day and you’re almost ready to give up when you stumble upon a polished white stone hiding in the hot sand. It’s shaped like a heart.

“Here,” you press it into Cove’s hands, heart beating. “This is for you.”

He cries like a baby at the sight.

-

Summer will always be your favorite season.

The sun burns down on you as you lay on a beach towel, pretending to read as you watch Cove. The feeling in your chest when he drops down way too close, his cold wet skin pressing into your warmth.

When you want nothing more but to draw him closer, see if his lips taste just as salty as yours.

And you can see in his eyes that he feels and thinks the same, yet you don’t act on it, only your hands folding around each other as if keeping a secret between them.

Getting smoothies with the others, smiling into your drink when Cove shimmies in place next to you, unable to keep still with all this happiness coursing through his body.

Him cllinging to you in the evening as you all sit around the bonfire, how his body goes turns soft against yours after a sip of beer, like all the tension bleeds from his limbs and into the sand.

Those days and months and years that you spend pining and in love, knowing the other feels the same but not yet ready to take that step and the one after and the one after that… 

There is no rush to it and maybe that’s the beauty of it.

Your first kiss tastes like the ocean and when you hide your face in his hair right after, all you can smell is the sea.

-

You can smell the summer coming, even five, ten, fifteen years later.

It tastes like the Ocean, like mint and citrus and something else, like kissing after sunset, like taking your sleeping bags down to the beach just to have an excuse to stay close for longer. 

There’s sand in your bed, coarse against your legs as you stretch. 

Cove’s left arm is slung around you, his nose buried in your hair. He doesn’t move even as you kiss the scar on his arm, so you stay still a little longer, letting him sleep.

Sometimes, in the milky white of early mornings, you still cannot believe that this is real.

But Cove is here, his heart beating warm against your back, his stomach grumbling softly even as he sleeps, justs further proof that he is the way he is… in love with you.

[kittyt-hexxed]

Her Sunlight

Ambessa Medarda x Queen!POC!Reader AU

Warnings: Sub!MILF!Reader, Past Heartbreak, Yearning, Missing your ex-girlfriend, memories of the past, surprise meetings, pet names, sensual sex, fingering, loving praise, love bites, lipstick marks, murder

Summary: You and Ambessa were lovers when you were younger. She was unaware of your true identity, but you were ripped apart before you could tell her. You ascended the throne in your country and she became a ruthless warlord in hers. You never thought you’d see each other again, but fate had other plans.

Your darling baby girl is laying on your chest, fast asleep and clutching your necklace in her little hand. You smile softly and smooth her hair down before carefully taking the pendant from her. The large, sun-shaped red diamond glitters in the low candlelight, and when you tilt it you can see the initials engraved into it - A.M. The necklace had been a gift from a lover many years in the past, but it was a past you cherished with all your heart.

“Y/n!” Ambessa whisper shouts, beckoning you over to her before ducking through the door. You discretely look around and slowly back out of the room, slipping through the door. You gasp as your hand is grabbed and you’re yanked to the left. The next thing you know, you’re running down the hall and giggling along with your girlfriend.

“Bess, where are we going?” You whisper as she guides you down a vacant hall.

“Somewhere private.” Ambessa grins as she stops in front of a door, “Take a seat.” She opens it, letting you step inside first and you realize that you’re in her bedroom. You raise an eyebrow at her as she heads over to her vanity but you take a seat on the edge of her bed. You watch as she fiddles with something, making a noise of success when it does what she wants it to. You giggle as she turns around but pause at the nervous expression on her face.

“Is everything okay, my moonlight?” You knit your eyebrows in concern as she stands in front of you.

“Ah, I know we’re only seventeen… but I wanted to give this to you.” Ambessa opens her hand to reveal a beautiful necklace. The gemstone was carved into the shape of a sun, but it was a rich red instead of yellow or orange.

“A necklace?”

“Do you remember when I explained some of the Clan traditions? That the rarest kind of diamond - a red diamond - is only worn by those in the Medarda Clan and their chosen.”

“Oh!” You brighten up, “Yes, I remember. Only the one who put it on can take it off. You said it’s like a marriage propo- Ambessa, you’re not- proposing to me, are you?” Your eyes widen and your heart starts to beat harder at the realization.

“My sunlight.” Ambessa tilts your head up, “It doesn’t have to be, but I don’t see myself giving this to anyone else. I want to give this to you, as a show of my love. Will you accept it?”

“I’ll accept it.” You grin, your heart fluttering in your chest. You knew what this meant, but until the two of you could actually get married, it would be a symbol of your love.

The door to your chambers opens and your husband comes in with a glare on his face. He insisted on doing the council meeting, to your displeasure, as the council hated him. You knew they were going to tear into him, but he didn’t listen. You frown, feeling annoyed that he ruined the peaceful moment with his grouchy mood. He crosses the room and goes into the washroom but that wouldn’t change how you felt. You went back to coddling your daughter, running your finger along her chubby cheeks and allowing yourself to relax in the brief time you have left. Adel comes back into your chambers, dressed in his night clothes, and gives you a strained smile.

“Hello, my love.” Adel sits down on his side of the bed, “How has Nyomi been fairing?”

“She’s fine. She had some milk and she’s resting now.” You wave him off.

“We have four children, now.” Adel smiles, brushing your hair back.

“Five, actually.” You glance at him, “I’m three months pregnant.”

“Already?” His eyes widen, flicking down to your stomach.

“Yes.” You hum, pulling your dagger out of your bun, “I’m excited to greet my final child into the world. They’ll all be raised right, don’t worry.” With a twirl of your fingers, you jab the knife into his chest. He lets out a shocked grunt, eyes looking at you in betrayal and the life rapidly drains from them. Adel was a man you held no love for and he knew as much when he asked you to marry him. He was in love with you, but you did not return that affection. You saw him as a means to an end as you needed to have children and the person you wished to be with wasn’t able to be with you. Your goal was to have your children and be done with the man. Killing him ensures that he does not become bitter or resentful of you and turns around to attack your family.

“You’ve fulfilled your purpose.” You push his body off the edge of the bed. There's a loud thud as his body hits the ground and you feel your body relax as if all of your worries have disappeared. The door to your room opens and your handmaid, Marianne, comes inside. Her eyes fade from a frosty white back to their normal ocean blue. You were lucky to receive a pledge from a powerful seer such as your Marianne. Although, she would claim that it was fated.

“Would you like for me to get rid of his body, Radiance Y/n?” Marianne asks sweetly.

“Yes, pet.” You give her a soft smile, “Join me afterward.”

“As you wish, my Radiance.” Marianne curtsies, tossing your ex-husband over her shoulder, “Shall I wear the ribbons you like?”

“Come bare with some wine.” You get up from the bed to place your daughter in her crib, “We’re celebrating, after all.”

“I shall wake the concubines, your Radiance.” Marianne chirps, exiting the room with a skip to her step.

“Your future is assured, my sweet Nyomi.” You whisper and kiss your daughter’s head.

“Bess? Would you ever want children of your own?” You turn over in bed to look at your girlfriend. Ambessa pulls you into her arms with a contemplative look on her face.

“I would. The older I get, the more I realize that I want a family.” She nods, “Why do you ask?”

“Ah- I was just curious. My brother just had his first child, and I realized that we never talked about it.”

“Would you?”

“Would I like to have children?” You ask, receiving a nod, “I would. I know I can comfortably raise them, so I would.”

“So you’d want to have my children after we marry?” Ambessa smirks, “We are nineteen, after all.”

“You’ll be having my children. Thank you.” You tease her, making her laugh.

You sigh wistfully. That was the last time you saw her. The last time you got to be intimate with her was before the war came along. You had to leave Noxus that very morning when your collectors came for you. Noxus had tried to invade Helios, and it was no longer safe for you to remain within their borders even if no one knew you were one of the princesses. You were heartbroken and desperately hoped that Ambessa would not lose her life in the war… or that she resented you. All you left behind was a short note and the memories of your time together.

~ 25 Years Later ~

All of Noxus’ generals and warlords were seated around a large table. A meeting had been called so that they could discuss everything going on within the empire. Usually, they’re held on the first of every month, but Ambessa had been in Piltover with her daughter. They knew better than to pull her away from mother-daughter time since she cut off the last General’s hand. This meeting took all day, but it was necessary to make sure that things were running as smoothly as possible. Ambessa found amusement in watching the generals try to puff up their chests and convince the three leaders that they were more important. She saw no need in fighting over that, as actions spoke louder than words. And, to her, they were insignificant.

“Now, the main issue we must discuss is the country of Helios. This country is ruled by a monarchy and has avoided Noxus’ attempts to conquer it for decades. The current monarch is a formidable woman her people refer to as their Radiance. Surprisingly, our spies have not brought back any valuable information. That leaves us in the dark. I’d like to open the floor and ask if any of you know about this country.”

“How could none of our spies bring any information back? That’s preposterous!”

“Ugh, you mean that uppity country to our East?”

“I’d be careful with your words about them. They’ve recently become one of the major powers of the world.”

“I’ve heard that their information network is shut tight. If they can tell that you’re not one of them, they will not tell you a single thing.”

“That’s impossible! How could a country that large manage that? Surely there’d be some kind of underground!”

“Helios is a vibrant country.” Ambessa speaks up, drawing attention to herself, “My Clan was permitted to trade with them after I took over. The people are well taken care of and want nothing. They’re very strict on quality control when it comes to imports and exports, and their streets are spotless. The main imports requested are wine and certain fabrics they cannot make themselves. Their people are very friendly and they hold their monarch in very high regard.”

“It would be beneficial if we tried to come to some form of treaty with them. They can clearly hold their own, and who's to say they won’t try to invade us?” One of the more level-headed generals chimed in. That proposition causes some discord in the room. Many people laugh at the prospect of Noxus being invaded or taken over. They believe that the Empire is too strong, but Ambessa knows otherwise. She’s seen the power of Helios with her own eyes, blinded by the magic of the Queen when she was miles away from the fight. Those who were had been burnt to a crisp and Ambessa had left the battle shortly after. She was unknowingly pregnant with her daughter at the time and was relieved she was unharmed.

“We will send a small party of Ambassadors into the country to negotiate, if those fail, then we will proceed with the war once more… We will be sending Kevin, Fiona, Lamar… and Ambessa.” That makes her raise an eyebrow and the group goes silent. Sending her - a known Warlord - was a calculated move. It would be both a show of power and insurance that they brought no harm to the generals. It also was a bit of a reminder that their egos were getting too big if they needed a supervisor.

“They wouldn’t welcome us with a Warlord!” Kevin scoffs, “They’re going to throw us out if we cross the borders with her!”

“Weren’t you listening when Ambessa said that she had permission to trade with them? I think she’s welcome into the country regardless of being a Warlord.” Fiona snaps at him.

“We will see.” Lamar leans back in his chair, “There is a difference between attending for the purpose of trade versus a war negotiation.”

“Whatever happens in Helios will affect Noxus, so don’t do anything stupid.” Swain rolls his eyes, “Their Queen is not a kind woman. If you ruin this for the Empire, you can kiss your seat as General goodbye.”

Marianne informed you that Noxian Ambassadors had requested permission to come to Helios and hold an audience with you. You had scoffed at the request but permitted them to come through. The Noxians have been trying to take your homeland for decades and failed to do so. Your people were well-trained and fought not for you but for their families. You could overcome anything if a family was what you fought for, and you only nurtured that thought in your people. After all, you had joined your people in the war even while you were pregnant with your children. When the attacks had completely halted a few years ago, you knew they’d be making a move to either fully invade Helios or negotiate. You knew that they had sent spies within the country in those quiet five years, but they did not receive any valuable information. For who were not the best spies but your own people? Encouraging loyalty and trust allowed your kingdom to prosper in ways Noxus could only dream of.

“They’ve been waiting on you for ten minutes, Lady Y/n.” Irene, your advisor, sighs in exasperation. You look up from your book and raise an eyebrow at her. Que another sigh.

“They’re in my kingdom.” You close your book and stand, “They will kneel before an empty throne for as long as I want them to. These Noxians have a lot of nerve coming into my kingdom after trying to take it from me. I want them to know that as long as they’re here… they’re under my thumb. The sun will shine on them only if I tell it to.” You smirk at her, getting a shake of her head. Irene knew your ways, but as your advisor, she was to remind you about the customary things. Even if you’d continued doing things your way, she would make sure you were aware of the customs. Whoever these Noxians are, you aren’t going to welcome them with open arms. They were going to learn that no matter what they did, your people wouldn’t fall to their pitiful Empire.

The doors to your throne room are opened, and you don’t even acknowledge the people kneeling with a turn of your head. Your gaze is kept solely on the throne until you’re seated and you catch the smirks on the faces of your guards as you get settled. They were always in the room to witness the way you worked, and they were excited about this one.

“You may gaze upon me.” You permit them to lift their heads, crossing your ankles underneath your gown, “Be grateful for it.” You observe each person’s face closely as they’re raised, taking in their expressions when they see you and noting how they look. There was a lot you could learn from a person’s face and right away you can tell that they weren’t happy. You felt smug until your eyes landed on the last person and you feel your heart stop. Even though she has aged, you’d never forget the face of the woman you’re irrevocably in love with. The woman who has haunted your dreams and waking life for the past thirty-five years. Her face betrays her shock at your appearance. ‘Now is not the time, Y/n. Address them first, and then deal with… Focus.’

“Speak.” You turn back to the person in front, looking down at them with a sharp gaze, “What brings you here.”

“We’ve come to talk about peace between our two nations.” The blonde-haired male - General Lamar - says, “We are aware of our past transgressions and wish to rectify it.”

“Past transgressions?” You scoff, “Years of war. Many lives were lost and for what? Your empire’s thirst for more land that does not belong to them? How many more countries will your people destroy?” The other man in the group - General Kevin - glares at you.

“Noxus is-!”

“-desperate.” You cut him off with a cocky smirk, “My kingdom stands in your way. We control the airways and waterways into other lands. Your armies will not get past my security, which is why you’re so desperate to take my land. Am I wrong?”

“You are not.” Ambessa’s deep voice reverberates through the room, through your very being, “Noxus is desperate. You are not wrong, your Radiance.” Oh, how hearing your title out of her mouth sends shivers down your spine. You couldn’t attempt to ignore her presence. Not any longer.

“Ambessa Medarda.” You hum, standing from your throne, “Noxus’ most successful Warlord and the head of the Medarda Clan. You have a lot of nerve showing up in these chambers knowing the tension between our two countries.”

“Does my presence offend you?” Ambessa raises an eyebrow at you, a silent challenge that makes you feel like a kid again.

“Not at all, but we must discuss your presence here.” You gesture to your guards, “Take the other three to their rooms. I will have a private word with this Warlord, and official negotiations will begin in the morning.”

“Yes, your Radiance!” Your guards shout as the side doors to the East wing open and one of your maids comes through.

“You’re dismissing us?” General Kevin crosses his arms, “After only saying two words?”

“Yes, General Kevin. After all, you brought a Warlord into my halls and didn’t think I’d notice.” Your words make their eyes widen, “When I am feeling more amicable, we can talk. As for now, get settled.” They hadn’t told you their names, but they didn’t need to. No one came into your castle without you knowing exactly who they are. Especially a Noxian General.

“Thank you for your kindness, your Majesty.” General Fiona bows, “You’re too gracious to let us stay within your castle.”

“Yes. I am.” You wave them off, silently watching as they’re escorted out of the room. It amused you that they believed you wouldn’t know who they are. You were blindsided by Ambessa, of course. You didn’t expect her to be sent here as she is a known Warlord. Then again, the last you had heard of her, she was in Piltover visiting her daughter.

You take a deep breath and turn to face the woman who has haunted your dreams, “Leave us. No one is allowed to enter.” You wave off the rest of your guards. They bow and you stare down at Ambessa as they vanish through the hidden doors. Not a word is exchanged between the two of you as she stands and takes slow, measured steps toward you.

“After all these years...” Ambessa speaks, an unreadable look on her face, “After all these years, I find you seated on a throne.”

“Bess, I-” Your voice fails you as apprehension and nervousness rise within you. You had left her in the middle of the night after a deep talk about your shared future. You had shattered that plan, and undoubtedly, her heart along with it. How could she look at you and not feel pure rage? Betrayal? Being alone with her like this leaves you exposed and easy to attack should she feel like running a blade through your chest. You could protect yourself, of course, but never against Ambessa. She was a woman who could subdue you in mere seconds, and you were sure that it hadn’t changed.

“You left me.” Ambessa states climbing the steps and making you take a hesitant step back, “You left me with only a note: I can’t explain why I’m leaving, but know that I have left my heart with you. I have never forgotten those words. And here you are now…” She tentatively reaches out and cradles your face in her large hands, towering above you as she did all those years ago. Although you’re the royal one, she radiates nothing but pure power and authority. The woman in front of you is unchanged by age. Everything about her reminds you of her childhood self, even the way she tucks a loose curl behind her ear.

“You’re as beautiful as the day I lost you.” Ambessa whispers reverently, making your eyes sting with tears. Her deep cocoa eyes show nothing but love and longing, none of the anger or hatred you expected to see within them. You can feel yourself crumbling in her presence, slipping into a mindset you had long forgotten. There was something in the way she held you, something in the way her eyes gazed at you so tenderly that made your heart weep.

“My moonlight.” You whisper, your hands resting against hers as she brings your foreheads together, “You must know that I never meant to leave you. Our countries went to war and my parents feared the Noxians would find out I was the princess. I had to return home for my safety. I-”

“-Ssshhh, my sunlight.” Ambessa’s words make your breathing catch, “You must know that I never stopped loving you. When you left, you took my heart with you, darling. To see you here is a shock, but a welcome one. I’m relieved that you’re safe and well for I feared what had happened to you.” She draws back and wraps her arms around you, pulling you to her. You let out a small gasp, resting your hands against her chest to stop yourself from falling into her. She hugs you tightly, squishing your face against her body as her strong arms make your legs feel like jelly. You had wanted to try and hold your decorum, but that was impossible with her. After so many years and in your older age, she still has a hold on you.

“I thought you would’ve hated me, my moonlight.” You whisper as tears roll down your cheeks, fisting the fabric of her shirt in your hands, “I wanted to find you and tell you, but between the war and taking the throne-!” Your eyes widen, taken by surprise by her lips being pressed to yours. The way her lips move against yours is a familiar rhythm that has you melting in her arms. Your kiss is bittersweet, like coming home after being away for years. Her lips fit against yours the way they always did, a tad rougher from the scar over them.

“You, my sunlight, have nothing to answer to. I mean look at you.” Ambessa gives you a wide smile, twirling you around to take in the extravagant dress you’re wearing, “A Queen. Not just any queen, but one who has successfully held Noxus off for forty years. One who has gained the unshakable loyalty of her people and is a force on the battlefield.” She escorts you to your throne, bowing and motioning for you to sit.

“I expect nothing less of the woman I love.” Ambessa smiles, taking the pendant of the necklace between her fingers, “I knew I made the right decision to give this to you.”

“I’ve kept my eye on you.” You smile, caressing her face, “You’re not a woman easily forgotten. A Warlord from a young age, a mother of three successful children, and the most renowned Medarda from trading alone.”

“You’ve done your homework.” Ambessa chuckles, eyes twinkling with youthful mischief, “Impressive.”

“As if you haven’t?” You tease her, “I’m sure you know everything about me that’s available to the public.”

“You mothered five children. Each one of them is a master fighter in their own right, but you gave them the freedom of life outside of the crown. You’re the strongest monarch to hold the throne, and the most beloved.” Ambessa states, kneeling before you and resting her hands on your thighs. If this was anyone else, they would be begging you for mercy for daring to touch you without your permission. But, Ambessa? There’s nothing you want more than for her to touch you.

“Yes.” You smile wistfully, “I raised them on my own. They’re my pride and joys, my children.”

“And what of their father?” Ambessa questions, attempting to hide her jealousy from you.

“You seem jealous, darling.” You raise an eyebrow at the stormy look in her eyes, “Are you?” Your heart was pounding in your chest. Ambessa was always possessive of you, making sure that the others around knew that you were hers. Her girlfriend. Her sunlight. Her future wife. The fact that she’s jealous of a man you held no love for is oddly attractive to you.

“I did say I wanted you to bear my children.” Ambessa’s hand snakes under your dress, gliding up your leg to rest on your bare thigh, “I am annoyed that a man got the honor of something he didn’t deserve.” The heat from her hand warms your thigh and makes you blush as she squeezes it.

“I did not love him.” You say, trailing a finger along her jaw, “He was dedicated to me and I used that to my advantage. I married him so that my children would have the same father, but once I was pregnant with my last daughter… I killed him.”

“You’ve always been mine, haven’t you?” Ambessa purrs, rubbing your thighs, “Even now, you’re still my sweet girl.”

“A-Ambessa.” You stutter flusteredly, unsure of what to say. Her hands on you make your mind feel fuzzy and it’s all you can focus on. She wasn’t wrong. You’re still hers after all these years.

“Hm? Something wrong, sweet girl?” Ambessa coos, “I can stop if you want me to.”

“No. No, I- Hold on.” You shift and stand up, lifting your skirt to expose your legs, “I’d like for you to continue.” You hook your legs over the arms of your throne, exposing your lack of underwear. When you were younger, Ambessa always asked you to be straightforward with her. She loved how flustered you could get and would challenge you to tell her what you wanted even when you couldn’t say it.

“That’s my girl.” Ambessa hums, her hand immediately caressing the inside of your thigh, “I’ve missed you so much.” She whispers, locking eyes with you as her fingers run along your slit. You bite your lip, head tilting back slightly as she pushes a thick finger in. A soft groan leaves your lips as she puts the second one in, slowly moving them in and out as she delights in your reaction.

“Don’t tell me you touch other women like this.” You crack your eyes open, idly wondering when you closed them.

“Like this? No. I take from the others. But with you?” Ambessa leans in, her lips hovering before yours, “I am more than happy to give you all of me.” She whispers, kissing you once more. You find yourself completely entranced by your ex-lover. The way she touches you has you seeing stars. Her fingers felt as though they were meant for you, running along your walls as if they owned you.

Ambessa watches you closely, drinking in how beautiful you look on your throne while moaning her name. Her necklace dangles from your neck, a physical reminder of the love she feels for you and the time you lost together. She felt possessive over you. She wanted you to be hers once again. That burning fire in her heart reignited the moment she saw you, and she’d be damned if she lost you once more.

Sweet, loving praises were whispered to you as Ambessa brought you closer and closer to your release. Her red lipstick was smeared along your thighs from the kisses and bites she left, and your lips were tinted from kissing her. Every soft whisper from her made you yearn for her. You wanted her back. You wanted her to be your lover once more.

You moaned her name when you orgasmed and you were swept up into her arms shortly after. There was nothing to say as she sits on your throne, holding you on her lap as you catch your breath. You rest your head on her shoulder, Ambessa rubbing your back and placing a kiss on your forehead. The two of you sit in silence, enjoying each other’s company after being apart for so long.

“I love you.” You whisper, playing with your necklace, “I’ve missed you, my moonlight. My heart has ached without you by my side.”

“I love you, my sunlight.” Ambessa tilts your head up, “Truthfully, I do not wish to leave you now that I have you.”

“Marry me.” You state, looking at her with determined eyes, “I have no husband and neither do you. I want you. I want you by my side for as long as we have left. And, it could be passed as a political marriage to Noxus. A way to get your country to end this stupid war before I’m forced to destroy it.”

“I would love to.” Ambessa holds you close to her, “But, I’m doing this for us. Not for Noxus. I want to be yours.” She kisses your knuckles, giving you a sweet smile that has your heart fluttering.

“Then, we’ll tell your Generals tomorrow.” You stand up, “In the meantime, you will be staying with me in my chambers.” Looking at Ambessa, you can’t help but think that she looks magnificent on your throne.

“And why is that?” Ambessa asks teasingly.

“I’m not done with you, yet.” You smile innocently, “Or rather, you’re not done with me.” You can see the lust in her eyes as she gazes at you.

“I am not done with you.” Ambessa agrees, standing and smirking at you, “It’s been too long since I’ve heard you screaming my name, my sunlight.”

“You’ll be my wife by the end of the week.” You shrug, “You’ll have much longer to hear it.” Ambessa puts an arm around your waist, caressing your face with her other hand.

“I love you.” Ambessa whispers, leaning in.

“I love you, too.” You whisper back. After all of these years, who would have expected that you and Ambessa would be with one another? Your decision is about to shake up the world, but you didn’t care. The love of your life has returned to you, and that’s all that matters.

[wonder-mei]

Tough man loves his wife (MK1 Kuai Liang)

Author's note; reminder this is not a lore accurate to the Mortal Kombat universe. I write because they're hot. I also do no have beta reader or i read my fan fic from top to bottom to see any errors. I'm lazy okay.

Everyone knows that Kuai Liang and Bi-han have similar characteristics but the younger one has sympathy inside of him,always by his adopted brother’s side and isn’t too stoic to other people. Everyone knows that Kuai Liang will have a family of his own but they never expected he will devote his life to his wife and children. 

Today he did a mission of helping the neighbouring village to slaughter invaders. He killed every invader without mercy just like they did to the innocent villagers. Covered in blood but not a single wound on him. Ever since his brother’s betrayal, Kuai Liang has trained himself to be stronger and stealthy, resulting in him not getting hurt in any battle and fights. 

Before he enters his home. He takes a shower outside the house. Washes every blood on him and wears fresh comfortable clothing for staying in his house. He has done this countless times; taking a bath from a mission and already having fresh clothes he placed every time before he went on a mission because he will be drenching in blood and sweat. He doesn’t want to enter his house like that.

After done cleaning himself. He enters his house without making a sound, thinking his family is already asleep. It’s very late at night. He slowly slid open the door to the master bedroom. His eyes land on an awakened woman sitting in front of her large cosmetic mirror carved from the finest wood in the land. She is combing her hair with the rarest jade comb he gifted from a raid he had months ago. Kuai Liang approaches his wife and sits behind her taking the jade comb from her hand then comb her hair. The wife smiles at her husband's arrival and affection which he always gives her every minute they’re together.

“Welcome home,husband-of-mine”

“I have returned,wife-of-mine. Why you’re not asleep yet?” He delicately combed her hair,admiring every strand. 

“I’m not tired yet. And” she turns to him with a smile “I’m waiting for you” she leans into her husband embracing him.

“I told you not to wait for me if i’m still not home at midnight” Kuai Liang smiles back at her stroking her hair. 

“I know but it won’t hurt to wait for husband-of-mine home right?”

Kuai Liang chuckles “Not at all. Thank you. Now turn back to the mirror. I want to continue brush your hair”

She turns back and Kuai Liang continues combing her hair. His other hand fishes hair oil out from his pocket then applies them in her hair.

“This smells new.Where did you get it?”

“An elderly woman gave this to me for saving the village. It is made from ginseng,very good for your hair” he brush her hair until the oil covers her hair 

“Oh” she holds her front hair to feel the texture “Feels much better than before. I love it”

“Really? Then i will buy this every month” 

The wife smiles at her husband’s promise. Kuai Liang swiftly wears a set of gemstones that complement her true beauty “I saw a seller in that village who mines gemstones around China. He gave me a good offer on these earrings. The second i laid my eyes on this gemstone,i think of you” 

The wife smiles more admiring the new gift her husband gave her. Tilting from side to side to admire them “They’re lovely,Kuai Liang” she hugs him tightly receiving a chuckle from him

“Let me see you” he holds her face staring at her. His thumbs strokes her cheeks admiring his own wife. The couple looks into each other eyes smiling together but then–

“Oh no. She’s awake” they both turn to a crying infant who was sleeping soundly on their bed. Kuai Liang with a big smile approaches his daughter. He gently holds the crying child but stops when she noticed her father is carrying her

“I think she’s jealous of you getting the attention” He teases his wife, “Very quick to get jealous just like her own mother”

“Hey!” she hits him pouting at him

The baby laughs at her mother hitting her father. Two sets of footsteps come storming into the room with a loud “Father!”

“Quiet boys. Don’t wake up the whole clan” their mother warns the twins but they didn’t listen. Launching themselves into their father like monkeys, “Look at these two rascals. Doesn’t listen just like their father” 

Kuai Liang laughs “I really can’t deny that”, he looks at his sons climbing on him but aware of their baby sister is in his arms asking loudly to their father about the mission 

“Boys! Let your father rest!” she warns again “Go back to your room now”

“Awww” the twins said in disappointed tone at the same time

“Let’s sleep together tonight. Sounds great right?”

The twins nod in excitement “YES!”. They both jump into the king sized bed ready to sleep. If they want to sleep

“You’re putting them to sleep” she pouts, watching their twins being hyperactive late at night. She takes their baby from him and walks to their bed. “Xiayi, Ruofei. Lay down!”

Kuai Liang watches his family being chaotic as they always are. A life he never thought he would get after years being betrayed by his own brother. His family is his beacon. To live,to fight and to have a peaceful life for them. 

a/n; my bestie wants a fan fic where there's kids. bleh here you go

[geologyin-blog]

While diamonds are often considered rare and valuable. However, there are several other gemstones that are even rarer and more unique than diamonds. Read more here: https://www.geologyin.com/2024/08/rarest-gemstones-in-the-world-photos.html

[atlas-of-a-human-soul]

Wildest dreams, pt. 29

Summary: Reunited, Paul and Y/N make a decision that's long-overdue: to get married.

Warnings: angst, fluff, sexual innuendos, swearing, talking about death, mental health issues and suicide

Wildest Dreams Masterlist

————————————

There are many things life had taken from Y/N – her mother, serotonin, confidence, it had stolen her friends for over a decade and in doing so, it had taken her soulmate from her long enough to take away her will to live and now it wants to steal her future too.

All she wanted seemed so far out of reach that there was absolutely no part of her heart that wanted to keep fighting. It was undeniable that Y/N gave up, too tired to give a shit about anything other than her father who was still living in La Push in the same house she grew up in.

Last thing Y/N expected was to run into a man she claimed to detest, much less to lose herself in his chocolate brown eyes and cocky smile that held the breath of life she was searching for.

Paul is all she needed that day, even if she didn’t know it back then.

Today is different.

Her hair is curled, lightly pulled back with a few locks framing her round face. Inhaling sharply, she holds her breath as Emily helps lace up Y/N’s corset. It’s not something Y/N really wanted for her wedding dress, but it defines her curves perfectly in the way she knows Paul will struggle to keep his hands to himself and she loves teasing him. It’s nothing compared to the lacy panties she bought for the occasion, red just as Paul adores. Stifling a laugh at the thought, Y/N exhales loudly as if to release all that troubled her before.

“That was an interestingly loud breath”, Bella notes with a soft smile.

Bella carefully unwraps the elegant, gift-wrapped box, revealing a stunning pair of blue sapphire earrings that gleam in the soft light. The rich, deep blue of the sapphires is breathtaking, reminiscent of the evening sky. Each earring dangles gracefully from a platinum stud, exuding an air of luxury and sophistication. The sapphires themselves are an exquisite shade of blue, akin to the rarest sapphires Y/N would imagine are found only in the most prestigious of collections of royals that once were. The hue is vibrant yet subtle, evoking a sense of calm and tranquility. As the light catches them, it seems to dance across the surface, creating an illusion of stars twinkling within. Surrounding the sapphires are clusters of dazzling diamonds, their brilliance enhancing the allure of the deep blue gemstones. The diamonds are meticulously set, forming a delicate halo around each sapphire.

Gasping at the sight, Y/N’s eyes widen as Bella’s smile grows.

“Something new and blue”, she exclaims. “Jacob said you always likes sapphires but never really wanted to spend much money on yourself, so Edward and I decided it would be a fitting wedding gift.”

“I”, placing a hand on her chest, Y/N swallows thickly. “It’s too much! I can’t-“

“You can”, Bella insists. “Honestly, this is timid compared to what the rest of the family got for your wedding.”

Raising her eyebrows at Bella's words, Y/N coughs as she nearly chokes on her saliva. "Timid?" she manages to say, her voice a mix of surprise and amusement. She glances at the earrings, utterly dazzled by their beauty. To her, they are anything but timid. Each sapphire seems to hold a universe within. “These are breathtaking! I think the earrings would be enough of a gift for the whole family. There’s no need for anything else.”

“Jasper and Alice literally bought you a whole collection of gala dresses by a famous designer he saw you looking at on Tiktok”, Renesmee chuckles. “You’re kind of stuck with a lot of megalomaniacs in gift giving.”

With shaky hands, Y/N accepts the earrings, carefully putting them on. Giving herself a good look in the mirror, she bites her lower lip to stop the grin threatening to spread across her face. She loves them, but it still doesn’t feel right accepting such an expensive present.

As she looked at the earrings, she couldn’t believe the girl looking back at her in the mirror. Off-the-shoulder sleeves delicately frame her collarbones while the neckline plunges into a gentle V, revealing a light cleavage without being overly revealing. A tasteful slit graces the front of the gown, starting mid-thigh, yet another reason she hopes would get Paul sweating. Pearls embellish the bodice and cascade down the flowy skirt. Each pearl seems to catch the light, reflecting a gentle, ethereal glow.

It might not be the dress she envisioned getting married in, but it’s perfect for her. She’ll have to thank Alice and Esme on their help finding a dress so quickly and especially thank Claire and Leah for convincing her the dress will be perfect for her.

“Are you alright?” Daisy asks quietly. “If this is happening a little too quickly for you, no one will mind delaying it for a few more weeks.”

Shaking her head, Y/N forces a small smile. She might not have a few more weeks.

“It’s long overdue.” Turning to face Daisy, she takes her hand gently. “I wish I did this years ago. We could have done so much more if I knew our time together was limited.”

Pressing her lips in a thin line, Daisy nods. “Getting married is just a party to commemorate what you two already have. There’s not a soul who’d contest your love. Paul adores you and not in a ‘she’s my imprint’ kind of way, more like ‘she put the sun in the sky’ kind of a way.”

Nodding, Y/N holds back tears. “I know”, she whispers, her voice a delicate quiver of emotion. “Ah, Alice will murder you if I ruin my makeup!”

“Me? What did I do?!”

“You’re the one making me cry”, Y/N chuckles, her laughter laced with a hint of sentiment, her eyes glistening with unshed tears.

In a split second, Alice appears beside Y/N with a stern look on her face. “Did I hear a sniffle?”

A mischievous smile plays on Daisy's lips as she exchanges a knowing glance with Y/N before they both burst out laughing.

“It’s not funny!” Alice protests, her stern facade giving way to a subtle grin. But even she can't resist the contagious laughter that fills the room.

Leaning on a tree with his hands tucked in his dress pants, Paul’s eyes are focused on the windows of his home.

“Hoping to catch a glimpse of the bride?” Jared teases, a playful glint in his eyes.

“He wouldn’t dare, because Y/N would kill him”, Embry remarks, a smile tugging at his lips.

Sighing, Paul rubs his temples in exasperation as Jacob chimes in. “She’d probably torture him first and then kill him. For funsies.”

“Actually”, Embry rubs his chin, “she would! And she’s a damn doctor! Probably knows how to keep a person alive long enough to inflict as much pain as humanly possible!”

“We’re not human”, Jared points out. “It’s probably longer for us.”

Shaking his head fondly, Paul looks to his brothers with a smirk. “You’ll get us caught. If you plan on hanging out here, be quiet so I can see my soon-to-be wife.”

“Ooooh, someone’s nervous!” Quill joins the group, grinning mischievously.

“More like clingy”, Jacob chuckles. “He’s missing Y/N.”

“He literally saw her this morning”, Quill states matter-of-factly.

Paul refused to part with Y/N ever since he came home because the mere thought of leaving her side felt like tearing more and more layers of his sanity. The moment he stepped into the house, Y/N wrapped herself around him so tightly that his heart trembled with the outpour of love she gave him. Instead of being angry at his cowardice, as she should be, Y/N bandaged his bleeding wounds and held him close for the entire weekend. The same night, he asked her to have a wedding soon and she didn’t hesitate.

That was five days ago. The entire pack and Cullen clan worked hard on preparing a beach wedding in the midst of rainy season, but today they’ve lucked out with grey skies but no rain in sight. Paul’s a little worried Y/N will be cold with the wind so close to the shore, but he’s more than happy to have her in his arms the whole time if need be. The very thought of being her warmth brings comfort – her favorite blanket as she once called him.

“I don’t think I’ll ever get tired of watching her”, Paul admits, tenderness palpable in his voice. His eyes soften as they lock onto the windows of their home, praying Y/N will come closer and smile at him. He bites his lip as he suddenly catches a glimpse of white only for his hopes to disappear by Rosalie’s grinning as she swiftly closes the blinds.

Growling lowly, he rolls his eyes, frustration mingling with impatience. “I hate her.”

“She’s not so bad once you get used to her”, Jacob shrugs. “If anything, she’s probably your biggest ally in the family.”

“Doesn’t do me much good when Y/N has made her decision.”

Embry scoffs, “She can still change her mind.”

“Would you want her to”, Quill asks, genuinely confused by their discussion.

“Yes”, Paul exclaims.

“It wouldn’t be Y/N anymore”, Quill reminds them. “She’d be just another Cullen.”

“That’s not true”, Jacob retorts. “Bella is proof.”

“Bella is an exception. I think Y/N understands that!”

Anger quickly spreads through Paul, pulsing in his veins. This is one of the most important days of his life, and his brothers decided to start an argument over a very sore subject.

Quickly approaching, Sam and Seth seem annoyed by their brothers.

“If you’re here to pester me too, I’m not in the mood”; Paul remarks bitterly.

“I was coming to find you because the girls are ready to leave, but if you want to stand here like idiots, arguing about something you have no right to judge, be my guest!” Sam turns on his heel, leaving immediately.

Putting his hands in his front pockets, Seth purses his lips, lifting his eyebrows. “So, if anyone is wondering what side I’m on- “

“We’re not”, Quill and Embry exclaim before heading toward the beach. Shrugging, Jared taps Paul’s shoulder before leaving, not adding any more burdens of opinion on his back.

Looking at Seth, Paul sighs. “Say it.”

“What?”

“What you were going to say. I’m a grown man, I can handle whatever your opinion is.”

Scratching the back of his neck, Seth smiles awkwardly. “I’d want her to live too. If it was my imprint, I’d do what I need to in order to ensure she lives. She can spend an eternity hating me, but at least I’d argue with her instead of her ghost.”

“Y/N explicitly said no”, Paul sighs. “How would I be a good husband to her if I can’t even respect her decisions?”

“You’d be a good husband by having an alive wife.”

“We should go”; Jacob nods toward the trees. “Can’t tell the girls to leave before we get there. Alice specifically said to text once you’re on the beach.”

Chuckling, Paul nods. Sending a quick glance at the bedroom window, his smile becomes a shit-eating grin as he catches Y/N peeking out to see him. She must have heard his voice.

“I love you”, he mouths, hoping she understands.

Paul didn’t walk; he ran to the beach. If his presence at the beach is the ONLY way Alice would allow him to see Y/N again, he wasn’t about to prolong his torture.

Smiling ear from ear, he feels his heartbeat pick up pace as he stares at the trees, waiting for Y/N to appear. He barely saw her through the window, but Paul knows she’ll take his breath away like she always does. It was enough for Y/N to exist for Paul’s knees to tremble – the simple things had him begging for mercy. The way she bites her lower lip tests his self-control far too often and her smile causes so many skipped heartbeats that he's certain she’d have him on medication if she had even the slightest inkling of the way she made him feel.

“You seem nervous”, Sam raises a brow. “I can hear it”, he chuckles.

Shaking his head, Paul grins. “I’m not. I just can’t wait to call her my wife.”

Paul can't help but smile, remembering her shy peek from the window. Y/N misses him too, he can feel it. He can almost feel her presence, as if she's close, her warmth wrapping around him even before she appears.

The wind carries the scent of the ocean, mixing with the subtle fragrance of lilies Alice shipped in from who knows where. It made Y/N happy to see them, and that was enough for Paul to like the Pixie Cullen a lot more.

The wind picks up. Paul can almost taste the ocean salt carried in the air. If he were a poet, he’d say his love for Y/N is measured by the amount of salt found in the ocean, but he doesn’t deem the comparison worthy of the true depths his love possesses. There are no earthly words that can ever describe the way Paul’s entire being is comprised of love for this one woman – the woman who once hated him, who had still given him a chance to show her his true self. Despite his fears, Y/N fell in love with his soul, the good and the bad – the only one who truly accepted both parts.

As the seconds tick by, each heartbeat resounds in his ears. Maybe he is nervous – what if she changes her mind and runs for the hills? He wouldn’t blame her. God knows he’s less than deserving of a woman as good as Y/N, but she makes him want to work toward being worth the effort she puts into their relationship.

“What’s taking them so long?” Jared grumbles, his impatience evident in the creases of his forehead.

“You were mocking Paul for being imprint-obsessed minutes ago and now you’re the one whining,” Embry mocks. “Can you seriously not be away from them for a few hours?”

“I can”, Jared remarks. “I just don’t want to.”

Furrowing his eyebrows, Paul turns to Jacob. “You did send the text, right?”

“Yes.”

“Did Alice text back or anything?” Paul continues, anxiety starting to creep into his voice. “They should have gotten here by now.”

Edward moves closer, his eyes carrying concern Paul instantly recognizes.

“What do you hear”, Paul raises his eyebrows. “Are they running late?” But he knows that wouldn’t warrant the frozen look on Edward’s face. “Tell me.”

“I don’t hear anything”, Edward states stiffly. “Not a single sound or thought.”

Swallowing thickly, Jacob starts walking backwards toward the house. “I’ll check on them.”

Snorting in disbelief, Paul follows after with haste. “I’m not waiting here.”

Edward joins their walk back, and so does everyone else. “It could be just Bella trying to bring an element of surprise to the ceremony.”

“If that’s her idea of surprise, it would be seriously fucked up”, Embry scowls.

“We’d feel if something was wrong”, Quill tries to lighten the mood, but even he’s sweating as anxiety wraps itself around his throat.

“It’s probably nothing to worry about”, Jasper’s words come with a wave of relief to the pack, adding to Paul’s annoyance.

“Do not manipulate me into worrying less.”

“I’m trying to keep everyone at ease so you don’t lose control on your wedding day”, Jasper responds. “It’s the last thing Y/N would want today.”

“I don’t think you telling Paul what Y/N would want is a good idea right now”, Emmett advises. Tension in the air thickens, mirroring the palpable worry and anticipation as they thread back to the house, each step heavier with a sense of foreboding.

A sudden, blood-curdling scream fills the air. It’s a sound filled with pure terror, an agonizing cry that pierces through the coastal breeze, freezing the pack and Cullens in their tracks as the scream echoes in their ears, leaving them momentarily paralyzed.

Paul's eyes widen, and his body goes rigid, every nerve electrified with a surge of adrenaline. His heart, which was racing before, seems to have doubled its pace. The dread in the pit of his stomach morphs into a gnawing anxiety that threatens to consume him.

"I know that scream," Paul gasps out, his voice laced with disbelief and a rising horror.

Jacob, too, is stricken, his expression a mask of terror mingled with urgency. The color drains from his face, replaced by a pallor of fear. He turns sharply toward the direction of the scream, his instincts screaming at him to move.

Without a second thought, they all run, their instincts taking over.

"Y/N," Paul whispers under his breath, a prayer escaping his lips.

Each step is a sprint, heartbeats thundering in their ears as they race toward the source of the scream. The Cullens have already gone far ahead. Dread tightens its grip on them, a suffocating force that urges them to move faster, to get to Y/N as soon as possible.

Paul's mind races, a thousand thoughts colliding. He pushes himself harder, the fear for his soon-to-be wife taking over his senses. He considers shifting for a moment, but he can’t…He can’t risk not being human if she needs him.

The forest feels oppressive, the trees closing in around them like silent witnesses to their desperation. Yet, the sound of Y/N’s scream echoes through the woods, a beacon of urgency.

Paul's chest tightens, a dreadful realization settling in. The possibilities race through his mind, each one more terrifying than the last. His breaths come in short, rapid bursts, every step heavier than the last, weighted with the dread of what they might find.

Tags: @notperfect-justme @sucker4seresin @ahoyyharrington @b-tchymoon​ @squiddaloo​ @abbiesxox​ @kellyashcroft​  @the-chaotic-cow​​ @xxxjaexxx​​ @captainrogers-19​​ @bexloxl​​ @llovergirlll​​ @adaydreamaway08​​ @sunsetevergreen​​ @volturiwolf​​ @twihard08​​ @galacticstxrdust​​ @sorrow-and-bliss​​ @ireadthensuetheauthors​​ @missxmarvelous​​ @locokoca​​ @unstablekay​​ @makhaia​​ @venusdelaroix​​ @avadakadabra93​​ @tearsforhan​​ @a-marie-a​​ @lendeluxe​​ @seagulls-corner​​ @jdbxws​​ @konigslilslut​​ @rottenstyx​​ @itsmytimetoodream​​ @dreamerwasfound​​ @convolutings​​  @thingfromlove​​ @jennyamanda8​​ @havecourage-darling​​ @luvr-exe​​ @alittlejudgemental​​ @turningtoclown​​ @emptydoorsandpaintedwindows​​ @marvelmenarebeautiful​​ @bringmethe-world​​ @alitaar​​ @sugasthreedollarkookie​​ @chloe-skywalker​​ @heyheyheyggg​​ @feral-ratatattat-king​​ @queereddie​​ @fandomrulesall-blog​​ @queenotaku27​​ @dcgoddess​​ @lilac-crowns-blog​​ @small-town-wayward-daughter​​ @yourqueentp​​ @boreddemigodd​​ @chaosgoblinreblogsthings​​ @felinegrate​​ @lunajay33​​ @gtfoana​​ @hpboysslut2707​​ @tpwk-harry-styles​​ @amberpanda99​​ @let-love-bleeds-red​​ @mo-s-blog​​​ @nj01​​ @myheadsinanotherworld​​ @problematicpastry​​ @witchybabel

A/N: Genuinely don't know if the tags are working again. I have no clue what Tumblr did to the blog tagging with the new text editor, but it's definitely off somehow. Let me know if you received a notification if you come across the post.

PART 30

[ragingbookdragon]

It’s a wild evening back on the base in Las Almas, drinks are poured, food is served, and the 141 and Los Vaqueros are getting to know each other better than any gunfight will ever let them. Spades has unfortunately found herself stuck in the middle of a cutthroat poker game with Alejandro, Ghost, and Price. Gaz, Soap, and Rudy had long decided to bow out of the game after each losing a good chunk of their paycheck, but God, the stakes were high now. A bottle of vintage bourbon, three rare cigars, a couple thousand dollars, and a few gemstones Spades had handy.

It's dangerous as the bets keep growing, and even Spades is starting to sweat like Alejandro and Price are as the cards keep moving.

It’s Price who tosses his cards into the pile first, a curse under his breath and Alejandro follows with, “Mierda.”

It’s just Ghost and Spades now, and he’s staring her down cooly.

“Feeling the heat, love?” he asks nonchalantly, and she inhales and exhales.

“I’m feeling something, Simon.” She looks at him. “I wonder if this is the night I finally lose?”

Something in his eyes reveals shock which quickly turns to pride as he shows his cards. A straight flush of diamonds. Five to nine. Everyone groans and Simon chuckles darkly as he collects his winnings.

Spades doesn’t show her cards, merely rises from her seat to cross the table, taking Simon’s bourbon from him; she sips it and gets low on his shoulder, whispering in his ear, “I’ll lose some night, but that night is not tonight.” She sets her cards down in front of him and he goes slack. “Eat my flush, babe.”

“No…” he breathes. “There’s no way you managed this.”

Five men are sticking their heads over to see what her hand is and it’s one of the rarest hands you can get. A royal flush, all Aces.

Spades hands the men back their items, save the money and gems, but takes Simon’s bottle of bourbon, and plucks Price’s lit cigar from his mouth, puffing it as she dances away towards a group of men and women barbecuing, as free and as pridefully as she pleases.

[vampirestookmydoubts]

The Prince's Debutante - Series

A/N: This is a series based and written on the ideas of @aninhatatu, Prince Friedrich deserves all the love.

Summary: As the daughter of a disowned marquis and a common maid, you enter your debut season under the watchful eyes of your grandmother, hoping for a humble suitor, to secure your family's future. But your plans change when Prince Friedrich falls for you, sparking an unexpected romance.

Will you and Friedrich be able to find a way to unite love and duty, as you navigate the complexities of society? Or will your blooming love succumb to your family's different expectations and societal scrutinies?

Pairings: Prince Friedrich x Reader

Warnings: none

Chapter 2: Blossoming Affections

From the Society Papers of Lady Whistledown:

My dear readers, it appears that amidst the glittering diamonds of the ton, a hidden gemstone has emerged in the form of Miss Y/N Whitlock. While she may not possess the dazzling allure of a diamond, I daresay that she shines just as brightly, if not more so. Could it be that Miss Whitlock is the rarest of gems—a ruby in a sea of diamonds, catching the eye and heart of a Prussian nobleman? Only time will tell, but I for one am eager to watch this intriguing dance unfold. After all, in matters of the heart, sometimes it is the hidden gems that prove to be the most valuable of all.

In the wake of your memorable dance, the reports of Lady Whistledown didn’t wait and surely didn’t disappoint the ton’s interest in the unexpected relationship that started to unfold in front of everyone’s eyes.

Despite the murmurs and gazes that seemed to follow you wherever you went, you found yourself increasingly drawn to Prince Friedrich's company, and Fortuna seemed more than willing to cross your paths. Your encounters at balls and soirées became a regular occurrence, each meeting deepening your connection.

Your grandmother, Lady Clarece, was invited to see the latest exhibition presented at the museum, and decided to take you with her. ‘See and be seen’, as she told you in the carriage. Especially now that you were the center of the ton’s talks.

You absentmindedly walked through the exhibition of paintings and sculptures, taking in the different shapes and colors the artists used to bring their imagination to life, when someone approached you from the side.

“Remarkable how artists are able to bring the pictures in their mind onto paper, isn’t it?”

You turned around to the familiar and soft voice, dropping into a curtsy to greet the man. “I was just thinking about the same thing”, you admitted, which made Friedrich smile at you.

“I had hoped to meet you here, Y/N”, the blonde said, turning to the side and extending his arm in an invitation to follow him. “In this case I should thank my grandmother’s secret love for gossip and self-presentation, for my attendance to this event”, you joked, which made Friedrich stifle a laugh.

“Do you think her love for self-presentation would like to be publicly thanked for in front of London’s high society? Or maybe a bouquet of flowers?” You grimaced at the mere thought of Friedrich highly praising and thanking your grandmother. “Please, I beg you, don’t.”

You and him shared a laugh as you both seemed to imagine your grandmother’s reaction to his potential thank you speech.

“Well, then how about you tell me about the book you bought a few days ago. You couldn’t tell me about it the last time I saw you as you hadn’t started it yet.” As you strolled through the museum's hallowed halls, the world around you seemed to fade into insignificance, the exhibits becoming mere backdrop to the captivating exchange unfolding between you.

Your heart fluttered lightly at his genuine interest in your interests.

"It's called ‘The Enchanted Mansion'," you explained, your voice suddenly alive with excitement. "The story follows a young woman named Thea, who inherits a sprawling estate by her late grandfather, which is shrouded in secrets. Soon her grandfather’s dark past catches up with her, and she has to embark on an adventure of self-discovery, learning who she truly wants to be and overcoming formidable challenges. But she also finds true and honest love along the way."

As you speak, your own words painting a vivid picture of the fantastical world described in the book, you didn’t catch the way Friedrich was gazing at you.

"But what I love most about the book," you continued, voice suddenly softening with emotion, "is how it captures the essence of longing and desire. Thea yearns for something more and deeper in her life, something beyond the confines of her ordinary existence. And as she explores the mansion’s and her grandfather’s secrets, she discovers that the power to change the cycle and therefore her fate lies within her own hands and heart."

Friedrich listened intently, captivated by your passionate retelling of the story.

"It sounds like a truly remarkable book," Friedrich remarks, his gaze locked on your face. "I can see why it resonates with you so deeply."

You smiled warmly in response, grateful for Friedrich's genuine interest and understanding.

In that moment, you felt a profound connection with him, but your excitement was tinged with a hint of self-doubt.

"I hope I'm not boring you with the books I like to read," you confessed, cheeks flushing with embarrassment as you suddenly remembered who he was. "I imagine you prefer more sophisticated and clever books."

Friedrich's smile was warm and reassuring as he shook his head. "Not at all, Y/N. I find your passion for this story quite endearing." He reached out to gently squeeze your hand, his touch sending a shiver of warmth down your spine. "In fact, I've always had a fondness for tales like these."

Your eyes widened in surprise, heart skipping a beat at his unexpected admission.

"You do?"

Friedrich nodded, his gaze steady and sincere. "Yes, indeed. In fact, I quite enjoyed ‘The Duelist’s Honor’ by Mrs. Hartley, who is also the author of the book you're describing if I’m correct."

Your jaw momentarily dropped in astonishment, your mind reeling at the revelation. "I had no idea! I've always admired her work, but I never would have imagined that you—"

Friedrich grinned, his eyes twinkling with amusement at your undertone. "That I, a prince, would enjoy stories like these? Believe me, Y/N, there is much more to me than meets the eye."

Your conversation flowed effortlessly, each literature revelation bringing you closer to Friedrich.

The following day, you were pleasantly surprised to be presented by a stunning bouquet of flowers the housemaid positioned in front of you in the drawing room.

A gesture that left your parents both intrigued and delighted.

"Beautiful flowers," your father remarked, examining the bouquet over his newspaper with interest. "I once sent your mother a very similar one."

Your mother's eyes sparkled with excitement, as she mused over the colorful arrangement. "Who would send such a precious bouquet?”

Their speculation was interrupted by the housemaid announcing a sudden visitor at the door.

Your heart skipped a beat as you recognized the familiar figure presenting himself at your doorstep: Prince Friedrich himself.

The sight of the prince elicited gasps of astonishment from your family, who were unaccustomed to receiving such esteemed guests at their humble abode.

As Friedrich entered the drawing room with effortless grace and charm, you couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and excitement at the prospect of introducing him to your family.

Your parents jumped from their seats, greeting him with a blend of surprise and delight, their expressions a curious mix of reverence and nervousness.

"Your Highness," your father stammered, bowing slightly. "To what do we owe the honor of your visit in our modest home?"

Friedrich smiled warmly, his presence commanding the room with ease. "I hope I am not intruding, Sir Whitlock. I simply wished to pay my respects and express my admiration for your daughter."

Your heart swelled with pride at Friedrich's words, though you couldn't help but feel a pang of anxiety at the thought of your family's reaction to his unexpected visit. By now you had grown accustomed to navigating the intricacies of society, but having the prince suddenly in your own home felt like uncharted territory.

Your mother, ever the picture of grace under pressure, welcomed Friedrich with open arms, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.

"Please, Your Highness, make yourself at home. It is an honor to have you here."

The blonde prince lowered his head in gratitude. “I hope you like the flowers I picked for you. The florist almost denied making it and wanted to change my mind to a bouquet of roses. But to me flowers hold a very special meaning and message.”

Your mother beamed with excitement at his words, as Friedrich settled into a comfortable chair.

“What a beautiful thing to say your highness!” Ever the inquisitive one, your younger brother quirked up from the sidelines.

 “So, what do they mean? And what about the flowers on your lapel?” your brother, James, asked and added a hasty ‘your Highness’ when he met your mothers gaze.

Your eyes now fell to the blue flowers that were neatly attached to the lapel of his jacket.

Friedrich smiled at the young boy, leaning slightly forward in his chair, meeting your eyes. “Much like the hidden meaning within these flowers, it is a secret that only a heart touched by true affection can ever hope to decipher.”

James looked between you and the prince with one of his eyebrows raised in a lack of understanding.

"Your Highness," he began tentatively, "What brings you really here?" His cheeky question earned him another stern look from your mother, but Friedrich just chuckled as he turned to James, his expression warm. "I wished to spend some time with your sister. She has captured my heart in a way I never thought possible."

Your cheeks flushed at Friedrich's candid declaration, and you felt a rush of emotion as you met his sincere gaze. Despite the unconventional nature of your forming relationship, you knew in that moment that your feelings for Friedrich were also deeper and more profound than you had ever imagined.

Throughout the visit, Friedrich charmed your family with tales of his homeland and shared his aspirations for the future. He spoke with warmth and honesty, putting everyone at ease with his easygoing demeanor and genuine interest in their lives.

As the evening ended, Friedrich rose to take his leave, his departure marked by expressions of gratitude and goodwill from your family.

As he turned to leave, Friedrich stopped in his tracks, turning back to you with a smile.

“I almost forgot!” Reaching into the inside of his coat, he pulled out a rectangle wrapped in silken cloth. “Flowers are beautiful, but their beauty is fleeting. They wilt and fade away so quickly. But words... written words have a lasting charm. They never lose their beauty or their ability to transport us to different worlds." Taking the gift from him you smiled, opening the wonky looking bow – you assumed he wrapped it himself – to be presented with a book bound in green leather and golden letters, spelling ‘The Last Marigold’.

"Indeed. While flowers may brighten a room for a few days, a book can stay with you forever, providing solace, excitement, and inspiration long after the petals have fallen. It makes books truly timeless treasures", you said, turning the book in your hands, feeling the leather under your fingertips. Friedrich’s smile also grew at your words.

“I found it in a small bookstore, in an alley hidden from the eyes of the ton. I thought you might like it.” The thought of him scanning rows and rows of bookshelves in even the tiniest of bookstores in London, when he could have just sent a servant to an expensive store, warmed your heart. He pulled out another copy of the book from his coat. “I’d love to hear your opinions on it the next time we meet.” With that and a deep bow and kiss to the back of your hand, he bid you and your family farewell.

The moment the door closed behind him, you swiftly escaped your excited and beaming mother, making your way to the quiet sanctuary of the library. With purposeful steps, you approached a familiar bookshelf and pulled out a thick, leather-bound volume, its cover adorned with an embossed flower and letters that had faded to near obscurity. ‘The Language of Flowers’ had been one of your cherished companions growing up. Your love for flowers had only deepened when your mother first shared the secret messages your father had sent her through bouquets during their forbidden courtship.

You began flipping through the pages until your eyes landed on the bluish flower you had noticed on Friedrich’s lapel. “Cornflower—the national flower of Prussia…” you read softly. Of course, he would choose something so symbolic of his homeland, you mused, scanning the passage until a sentence stopped you cold, making your heart skip a beat.

‘An unmarried gentleman in love might be seen with a freshly plucked cornflower, pinned upon his breast. The fate of his affection is said to be reflected in the flower’s bloom. Should the cornflower remain vibrant and fresh, it signals a hopeful promise that his love may be returned. But if the flower withers and fades too quickly, it is taken as a most unfortunate omen, a silent whisper from nature that his heart’s desire might remain unfulfilled.’

A smile tugged at your lips as excitement fluttered in your chest.

The bouquet Friedrich had sent you suddenly felt like a puzzle waiting to be solved, and you couldn’t wait to decipher its hidden message. Roaming through the pages, you hastily scribbled down the meanings of each flower—gloxinias, baby’s breath, primroses, daisies, and peonies—until you pieced together a message that made your heart race and your cheeks flush.

"From the moment I first beheld you, my heart was irrevocably yours. You have become the very essence of my existence, and life without you is unthinkable. It is my deepest hope that we might soon unite in marriage and spend our days together for a lifetime and beyond."

It was as though you could hear Friedrich’s voice in your mind, a tender whisper sharing the secret message only a heart touched by true affection could ever hope to decipher.

______________________________________________________ Tag list: @rebeccawinters, @inutheangel, @bbubbllejisoo