#rio black!oc

[nobitchs-world]

Me after explaining the multiverse of different people and characters where I have different ocs in my head to my sisters

[marleyybluu]

Oh sista you ate baaaaad with Don Julio even tho we all know none of us needed liquor help when it comes to that man, I am wide open sober papacito ya tú sabes 🥵🤤

Don Julio 2

Best friends brother!Rio x f!black!OC (Honey)

Word count: 3.5k

Content Warning: 18+, smut under your fingernails, p in v, creampie (bcus I have a serious problem atp), two dummies who think no one notices they’re into each other, a bit of flirting, oral (f receiving), we are in missionary today, Rio wears rings 🙃 :)

Lmk if I’m missing any idk I probably am

A/N: surprise, the Rio girlies get fed even though I don’t like this, some parts suck in my opinion but I hate everything I write so what’s new. Not proofread sorry

Suddenly she was so... aware of him, of every molecule and particle that created his form.  Now, she notices his hands and the copious amount of rings he wore, how large and wide his palms were and how slender and long his fingers suddenly seemed. She took a swig from her can of Twisted Tea as she sat around one of the tables in their family's backyard. She didn't want to be here, it was too weird for her, but it was his birthday party. She'd been to all of his parties since they were kids and she figured the lack of her presence would be obvious.

She kept her distance though, only saying 'Happy birthday' and 'Here's your gift' when she arrived about two hours ago and hadn't said anything else to him since. But she couldn't keep her eyes off of him, the fantasies of what could've possibly happened that night haunt he in a pleasant way, but she just adored him from afar. Paying extra attention to whom he was talking to.

Vera.

She's a beautiful woman, Honey could give her that, she is probably the same age as him too. She'd been around the neighbourhood long ago but moved and would once in a while return home to visit. She raised her eyebrows, her eyes narrow as she attempted to read Vera's lips to know what they were discussing but she couldn't make out anything, this weird pang in her chest— possibly a smidge of jealousy, was an unnecessary and stupid feeling. She sighs and shifts her eyes to Cherry who had seemingly been watching her the whole time. Honey smiles innocently as if she hadn't just been ogling her brother for ten minutes. Cherry nods to the house, letting Honey know to meet her inside.

Honey excused herself from the table and waltzed her way in through the back door that led straight into their big kitchen, a few family members-- mostly men, were inside the living room watching football. Cherry cleared her throat, her way of announcing she was in the room. Honey spun on her heels and beamed. "What's up?"

"Nothing, I just need help bringing some more drinks out."

She shrugs and they both head down to the basement and to the wall where various boxes of liquor, both strong and light, were propped up. She reaches for the Corona's and the Smirnoff's able to hold one of each. "Can you believe Vera's here? I swear that woman gets prettier with age." Cherry states and there's that kink in her chest again. Honey nods, afraid that if she mutters anything she'll give away the jealousy but her friend continues with; "I wonder if they've been hooking up." She reaches for more Twisted Teas and two boxes of White Claw's mostly for her consumption. Honey swallows and looks at her shoes. "What makes you think that?"

She smirks. "I went into his room, just to steal one of his sweaters, and I saw something pink under his bed,"

Oh god.

"I didn't touch it but I'm assuming they were some panties."

One of the boxes slipped from Honey's hands and crashed to the floor, it popped open and all the cans of Twisted Tea rolled in their own directions. Cherry chuckled. "Are you good?"

"Yeah... yeah, I just— sorry." She stammered, she squats down to pick up those that fell in front of her while her friend grabbed the scattered ones. "Here, take this box and I'll hold some of the cans." She says and they switch. Honey feels like she can't even look her friend in the eye, her cheeks feeling warm and if she was any lighter she'd be as red as a stoplight. They head back upstairs where they meet the birthday boy in the kitchen with his head in the fridge. "What do you want now?" Cherry asks with fake annoyance. He pops up and straightens his posture just like he did when he was younger getting caught doing something bad. "Came lookin' for some more drinks." He says pointing to the boxes, his eyes locked with Honey's and she swore she lost her balance for a split second.

Her face only getting hotter, he was a��continuous reminder of that Sunday morning. Cherry raised her eyebrows as her eyes played ping-pong between the two, the silence was awkward and making her uncomfortable. She'd never seen the two be this strange. She dropped the cans and the box of drinks onto the counter, hard enough that the sound would snap the two out of whatever unearthly trance this was. Honey and Rio broke their staring contest, eyes bouncing off in different directions. He helped the two put the drinks in the cooler, he had a spliff tucked behind his ear, and he took it down offering it to his sister. She dismisses him and says she has to find their father, so she leaves the two alone, Rio puts the spliff between his lips and cups the free end with his hand, with his other hand he flicks the lighter and the small flame transfers over to the paper, burning it along with the kush.

Honey just watches him from the corner of her eye when he looks up she darts her eyes forward and begins to sway from side to side. He looks over at her. "Still don't smoke?"

"I do," She lied. "Occasionally." She didn't know why she fibbed, she just did. He chuckles calling her bluff and in some strange urge to prove to her friends older that she is mature enough to smoke, she takes it from him and inhales, she holds it and chokes once before coughing embarrassingly loud. He chuckles and takes the spliff from her, he pats her back but it is no help as she continuously coughs. Now it's becoming concerning. He puts the (still) lit spliff behind his ear and ushers her back inside in hopes of getting her some water.

"I-I'm fine, I sw- cough- I swear."

"Yeah fucking right, mama." He coos grabbing her a bottle from the fridge making sure he opens it for her before handing it to her. Honey tips her head back as she downs the bottle in desperate relief. She comes up for air and sighs with contentment. "Better?" He asks.

"Mhm." She nods and suddenly realizes they're both alone. In the house. In the kitchen. Honey clears her throat and opens her palm, a silent way of asking for the cap. He hands it to her and their fingers brush for a moment, she savours it, a shot of electricity running through her veins. He finds himself blushing and quickly retracts his hand, though he'd give anything to touch her soft skin again. "Thanks." She mutters. "Yeah."

There's that awkward silence and neither of them knows what to do. "Your fault anyway." She says under her breath with quick wit. "You're the one who knows you don't smoke. Why take it?"

"Why offer it to me?" She giggles, he takes it from behind his ear again and inhales as he lets her question sit in the air. He shrugs and blows the thin smoke away from her face. "Didn't think you'd take it."

Honey rolls her eyes. "You've always been like that." He responds. "Like what?" She asks. He shrugs and takes another drag. "What?" She repeats and he continues to serve her with silence. "Well, you've always been an asshole." Honey spits back, now it's his turn to roll his eyes. "Always been like that." She says mocking his words from earlier. They look at each other as the awkward silence becomes less so, it bleeds into a comfortable feeling with each other. Rio's eye quickly falls to her lips and back up to her and she catches it. She witnesses his want for her, dare she say it's a need. And between the head buzz of both kush and liquor his mask was faltering, the longer she stared the softer his features became for her.

"I need you to kiss me..." She whispers and trails off, the statement taking the both of them by surprise, he'd ask for reassurance but the slight desperation in her voice and the positiveness in her face were more than enough. Rio doesn't hesitate. He kisses her like his life depends on it and maybe it did. His hands cup her cheeks drawing her closer to him. Their bodies pressed against each other and the kiss quickly rose from slow and sweet to hot and steamy. She slides her hands under his shirt, her fingers dance along the warm skin of his smooth back. He licks her bottom lip as a response and she gladly invites him in. Honey feels herself stumbling back as their tongues fight in the name of lust, she finally hits the counter and is hoisted on top of it.

"Wait..." She mumbled but it fell on deaf ears as his lips met hers again, she moaned into the kiss and gently pushed him back. "Someone's gonna see us." She laughs breathlessly. It was a miracle no one did already. He wraps her legs around him and lifts her off the counter. "You sure about this?"

She nods and he carries her up the stairs while making sure the coast is clear. He takes her to his bedroom, the place where it all started, and closes the door and locks it. "How long do you think it'll be before anyone notices you gone?"

"Who would notice?"

She playfully flicks him against his temple. "You are the birthday boy remember?"

"Worry about it later." He huffed and before she could get another word out he shut her up with another kiss. His hands shift her dress up around her hips, the cold air of his room creates prickles against her mahogany skin. He rests her down on the bed, her back contacting the very soft comforter and the memorable mattress. The best damn sleep she ever had was on that thing. His lips travel to her jawline and along the side of her neck. She turns her head giving him more access to her sweet spot he so seemingly remembers.

Her toes curl at the teasing, the anticipation, for once she wanted to skip foreplay and just go straight to it. Her eyes flutter as he sucks on her supple skin in hopes he'd leave a mark, another thing to spark her memory of him. Honey softly moans when his fingertips play with the strings of her thong, pulling them down and exposing her wet and needy pussy. She gasps at the friction from the band of his boxers rubbing against her swelling clit. Her eyes wander the room and land on his doorknob, she squints and giggles. "What?"

"Are... are those my panties hanging from your door?" She snorts. He quickly turns his head and blushes. "Maybe."

"You want these too?"

"Don't tempt me." He says before attaching his lips to her neck once again. She lightly scratches at his back. and whines as her aching hole clenches around nothing. He finally undoes his jeans, and the sound of his belt hitting the floor only adds to the tension, she almost whimpers when his shirt is next to go and his body is on display for her and her only. Rio's hands waste no time caressing the back of her legs as he pushes them back, his eyes so fixated on her swollen sex, he places his thumb on top of her clit and rubs slow circles on her sensitive nub. She sighs with pleasure as her eyes close, his thumb soon trails down her slit collecting her slick.

His middle and ring fingers follow the same path before they find their way inside her. "Oh." Honey mewled as they planted themselves deeper, her eyes slowly rolled to the back of her skull when he started playing with her pussy. He pushed his fingers in and took them out at a languid pace. The sounds of her wet pussy squelching with every pump of his fingers erupted through the room, bouncing into his ears and running straight to his dick as if it couldn't get any harder. He had to make this quick before anyone got suspicious.

"I promise mama, next time I'll take real good care of you." Rio coos in her ear before pulling away and ridding himself of his pants and boxers.

Honey softly whines and clenches at the promise of a next time. She watched his painfully hard dick spring out and hit his lower abdomen with a hard this. Her eyes slightly widened as if was her first time seeing him. Wondering how she took all that. "You scared now?"

Honey sat up on her elbows and shook her head, she looked up at him through her fresh set of lashes. She slowly spreads her legs wider. His eyes fall between them and his tongue swipes his bottom lip. "Next time..." He softly repeats to himself as a reminder. "Next time..." He pulls her to the end of the bed and drops to his knees in front of her, he can't wait until next time. He just needed a little taste.

His head disappears between her thighs and she's greeted with the warmth of his tongue between her swollen lips she glitches at the contact but soon relaxes when a kiss is pressed against her clit before it was followed up with his tongue once more. Her eyelids fluttered. He was practically making out with her pussy, wet and sloppy sounds made themselves known-- thank goodness the music could drown them out. Gasps and whines leave her lips, her toes curl, her body rendering her powerless against his regime, especially when his thumb starts to tease her hole with small circles.

His hands ran over the back of her thighs and hooked in the space provided behind her knees. She's writhing under his touch, her hands gripping onto his sheets for dear life. "Oooooh, yeeeesss." She slurs lost in her pleasure.

Rio smiles at her continuous babbling, half the words he could barely make out himself. Honey's moans were going straight to his dick making him harder than ever it was almost painful. He, unwillingly, pulls away and she lets out a frustrated sigh. He smacks her thigh and shakes his head. "You're getting what you want, mama, relax. Yeah?"

He gives her no time to respond before he guides himself inside her heat, she's beyond wet and sticky, he knew he wouldn't last. Her back arches with every inch he puts inside her, she cries out as her hand quickly flies to his lower abdomen. "Fuck, wait..." She protests, swearing she can't take anymore.

"Honey, if you don't move that hand." His tone let her know it was a warning, she whines as she takes her hand back. Her jaw slacks so much it touches her chest, he's in and he's in deep. He retracts only a little bit before going in for more. He drives his hips into hers at a tantalizing rhythm. Honey's head falls onto the soft mattress, she lays there and all she can do is take what he's giving to her like a good girl.

A string of poetic and vulgar moans leave her system, telling him how big he is, how deep he is and how good he's making her feel. He can only respond with his grunts and praises, leaning over to bury his head in the crook of her neck, whispering some of the filthiest things she'd ever heard. "That pussy is soaking for me, huh? Guess it wasn't the Don Julio, after all, you fucking like this?"

All she can do is nod, the air from her lungs has been knocked out. The bed is rocking, creaking to the beat of his strokes, the small fear of being caught or heard had dissipated and her sole focus was on the man on top of her. "Yes, yes, yes!"

Her nails dig into his flesh while his teeth graze over her neck, his tongue gracing the same area. Rio pounded into her until he felt her tighten around him, he looked at her to catch her love faces. The way her jaw drops and her eyes roll to the back of her head, her eyelids fluttering from the intense pleasure and the euphoric feeling. And he just keeps going. Dragging it out, making sure she lets out everything. All of it. But she can't take it anymore, it feels good but she's so sensitive from the explosive orgasm, that her hand goes back to his lower abdomen.

And Honey gasps out of shock when her hands are suddenly pinned to the bed and above her head. "I told you to move your fucking hand didn't I?"

"Fuck! Baby, I can't take it." She pleads. "But you took it so well last time mama. I remember it."

Her eyes gloss over. "Telling me you don't remember? The way you kept asking me, begging me for more. For me to go deeper, for me to fill you up all the way."

She nods lazily, though she can barely tell what she's agreeing with. "Yeah? So, you can take it. Look how well you're doing right now."

Rio mumbles into her neck, he lets go of her hands and they immediately hug around his neck. "There she is." Her heels dig into his lower back, she wanted it deeper if it was possible. "Fuck me, please." She whines and it's barely a whisper. He pushes himself deep and stills his hips. "You asked so nicely darlin'." He rasps.

She's pinned between his body and the mattress, she could feel a devilish smirk against her skin before he isolates his hips— rotating them sloooowly. He's losing it too, just trying to keep his cool but he was at his tipping point. His tip nudging against her g-spot and her lush walls contracting around him. "You wanna cum baby?" She whispers and now it's his turn to nod as he loses his words. "You can cum inside me." She purrs feeling another orgasm pulling through. Rio plunged into her, she's coating him with her sticky pleasure. He stills once more and soon he's pouring everything into her, she giggles lazily. "Mmm, so warm."

He chuckled and shook his head planting a passionate kiss on her cheek. And they lay like that for a while, vibing in their post-coital glow— sweaty, hot and satisfied.

But as time passes they realize they have to go back before anyone truly notices anything. He cleans her up and himself and then begins to get dressed, in silence, which feels awkward. Neither of them knew what to say.

After they get dressed, Rio sneaks out first just in case anyone is inside the house— especially on the lookout for his sister but when he confirms the coast is clear he knocks on the door twice to let Honey know they are fine. The small action causes her to smile to herself. "I have to fix my hair." She softly says and hears a muffled, "Take your time, baby."

Her heart leaps and the little girl inside her begins to glow which causes her cheeks to heat up and if she were any lighter she'd look like a tomato.

After making sure she looked decent she creeps out of his room and closes the door quietly, but as she heads to the top of the steps she hears, "Honey?"

You've got to be kidding.

She quickly spins on her heels and smiles, seeing Cherry in the door frame of the bathroom, she reaches to turn off the light and crosses her arms right after.

"Hi, Cherry."

Her friend's eyes dart between her and the bedroom door. "What are you doing in Rio's room?"

Honey's throat had suddenly run dry and her brain had flushed all the excuses in the world. She had nothing to say. What could she say? It wouldn't be believable regardless. Her mouth opened with the incentive to speak but nothing but croaks of awkwardness.

"Are you-"

"Honey!" A sudden call comes from downstairs. It's Rio looking up at them from the first floor. "Have you seen- oh there she is. Honey and I were looking for you. Bring your big heads downstairs I'm cutting the cake."

She could feel a bead of sweat forming at her hairline. "I'm getting the second slice!" Honey childishly announces bolting down the stairs. "No! I am!" Cherry follows suit and they both bolt down the stairs. Honey slows down allowing her friend to pass her. She squeezes his arm as a silent thank you and he nods at her.

Everyone is outside and gathered around the table waiting for the three of them to arrive. Cherry and Honey stand with the birthday boy as their mom lights the candles.

"One... two... three."

They begin to sing, and while everyone is looking at him he can only pay attention to one person. Honey. She giggles and puts her head down trying to hide her ginormous smile. Everyone else was too busy singing to notice, but Cherry... oh Cherry noticed. Something was going on and she needed to find out.

Now.

🏷️: @darqchilddaydreamz @rio-reid-whoreee @skyesthebomb @realhotgurlshit @lovedlover @librarian1002

Might be interested: @bigenergy777 @educatorsareslutstoo

If you would like to be on the tag list, or removed lmk. If I missed you, sorry, I don’t have these tag lists written down (I should )

[cloveroctobers]

OCTOBER PROMPTS 🦇 — 5. RIO

A/N: had a dream about my man the other night so I guess that was his way of telling me that he misses me? We love delulu!!! Anyways thought this would be fun to actually write something on the line of thriller/spooky this time around. This is me making up for not writing part two’s to my other fall inspired prompt on this man way back when. Hope y’all enjoy this 🧡🫶🏽!!!

PROMPT is from HERE + I’m using: A Begs B to come explore an old house that they believe is haunted. B is hesitant, especially after hearing the scary tales A knows so much about.

*GIF + PHOTO DO NOT BELONG TO ME!

WARNINGS: some France slander, language & hints of sexual content.

<- read my previous October anthology prompt here.

𒅒𒈔𒅒𒇫𒄆 𒅒𒈔𒅒𒇫𒄆 𒅒𒈔

Being in France for the month of October initially wasn’t the plan.

Khadijah and Rio ventured out here for a couple days for Khadijah’s birthday and for Rio to tie up some loose ends for business. What was supposed to be a four day trip turned into a much longer adventure.

“I know y’all done heard they got bed bugs out there, why are your asses staying out there longer?” Khadijah’s mother blurted into the FaceTime call.

Rio chuckled to himself by the mini bar, fixing himself something brown before entering the main living room part of the suite.

“Mom,” Khadijah hissed as she flicked through the channels, “this was a unexpected extended birthday trip.”

“Uh huh, sure it is.” The older woman said not entirely believing that, “Don’t think you can get cute on us and decide not to come back.”

“I’m already cute,” Khadijah modeled with extra shoulder as she sat on the tan couch while her mother brings the camera to show that she’s rolling her eyes.

“Well where do you think you get it from?”

“My father.”

“More like you got his smart mouth.” Khadijah’s mom comments, making her child hold up her finger to interject.

Now she loved her mom dearly but it was no secret that Khadijah was a daddy’s girl and her father’s favorite daughter despite what her two sisters thought. She was one of four children while her youngest sibling happened to be the only boy.

“Aw c’mon, don’t do Mr. Wells like that, especially if he’s not here to defend himself. Where is he anyway? It’s gotta be after 10:30 back home?” Rio came into frame, crouching behind Khadijah, who turned to peck his cheek before facing her phone once more.

The woman sighed, “where else? Working, working, working. I’ve been telling him he needs to slow down, he’s not some twenty year old no more. Lord knows it.”

Mr. Wells had a heart attack last year and had to have a stint put in. Rio’s never seen Khadijah’s so stressed before in his life and although the hardworking man had a good job with good insurance working for the city, they slammed him with some bills that Rio paid off. Which Mr. Wells wouldn’t let slide and already was in the process of paying back.

His choice, not Rio’s.

“He’s close to retirement and he loves supporting his family which is respectable.” Rio starts before joking, “once that happens then the both of you can come with us to Paris next time.”

“Uh uh. I’m never going over there, never had the desire to which is why I want y’all asses to get out of there fast!” Mrs. Wells’ large glasses come into frame now as she holds the phone at not the best angle, “I’d love to see Dubai or St. Lucia with Kayode, your father, and I guess your big headed brother can come too, Deej.”

Khadijah laughs, “yeah and he can bring Eliza too.”

“if I catch him even thinking about it, I’ll click my heels three times and send her bony ass right to hell.”

Laughter bubbles in Khadijah’s throat as she sends a teasing smile to Rio who winked back at his wife, knowing that neither of Khadijah’s parents were fond of their youngest child’s significant other. He was nineteen and found his supposed first love so it was evident that the pair were clingy and so in love with each other. They went to the same high school together, weren’t in the same cliques but ended up at the same community college and decided to give each other a try.

In shorter terms.

“We’ll make it happen,” Rio sighs as he comes around to plop down on the couch next to Khadijah, tossing a hand around the back of the couch, “minus Eliza right?”

“Damn straight,” Mrs. Wells humphed, “she can date somebody else’s son and boss them around for all i care. I just hope it’s over before thanksgiving.”

“Now Mom! Let’s not spread that negative energy for your birthday month, do you need some lavender and Kirk Franklin to keep your blood pressure down?”

The woman with the now bonnet secured around her micro locs fanned her hand, “I already had my session with Mr. Franklin around 7pm so hush! You know that’s what I’m wishing for and hoping you don’t wait around and decide to come back then.”

Khadijah blinks at Rio, who meets her stare. He had no plans of staying here longer than another few days, things got delayed and he offered to send Khadijah back to Detroit if that’s what she wanted but she had some vacation time that she didn’t mind using and she didn’t want to leave Rio behind either.

He’s been busy lately and she just knows as soon as they get back to Detroit, he’ll probably disappear for a little awhile again. So sue the woman if she wanted to be a little selfish and spend more time with her man.

“We’re gonna bring you something much better,” Rio smirks after taking a sip of his liquor, “maybe even a new bundle of joy.”

“WHAT?!” Mrs. Wells yells, “don’t play with me right now. When was your last cycle? I’ve been saying your tatas been looking fuller, ooooh I’ll have to tell your grandmomma.”

“Hey, hey! I’m not pregnant—

“Yet. We’ve been practicing though.” Rio announces, biting down on his bottom lip while Khadijah gasps and shoved at his knee.

Mrs. Wells claps her hands in joy, “y’all keep doing that but don’t bring those bed bugs back with you.”

“We won’t and did our research. If it makes you feel any better, we’re leaving this hotel tonight to stay at this castle for the rest of our trip and then tomorrow we’re gonna go explore this historic house since Rio wanted to have a rest day.” Khadijah informs her mother while Rio slowly nods his head, not knowing of the exploring a house portion but they’d discuss it later.

Mrs. Wells yawns as she sits up in bed now, “sounds fancy but okay then, mom’s tired and ready to knock out. But continue to be safe, the both of you and I’ll see you soon?”

“You sure will, night momma Wells.” Rio gave a two finger salute while Khadijah shared, “I love you’s, talk soon.” Before hanging up the call.

Khadijah leans back against the couch with a sigh, “told you mom’s got serious seperation anxiety all thanks to Kaliyah moving to Toronto with her girlfriend and we’re only traveling!”

“Which is exactly why I tried to smooth over her worries with baby talk, it worked didn’t it?” Rio lifts a thick brow while Khadijah shrugs her shoulders.

Soon she rests her head on Rio’s chest, locking her arms around his waist, “it’ll happen when it’s meant to…and we need to make sure we’re all packed for our new temporary home.”

“Oh I know I am, it’s you you gotta worry about mamas.” Rio presses a kiss to Khadijah’s rosemary scented hair.

Khadijah scoffs, “sorry but I had to buy more for this trip…which I’m not complaining! BUT! Paris’ fashion is really for the petite girlies.”

“They’re forreal missing out on the inclusion and better get on that.” Rio hummed.

“Siobhán is.” Khadijah grins while Rio slowly dips his head at the mention of his old designer friend.

Before Khadijah could get into asking about how she’s been doing, Rio sips from his drink once more and changes the subject, “what’s this about exploring tomorrow?”

“We maybe moving into a castle mansion for a little awhile but there’s no way I’m staying cooped up any longer without seeing what Dordogne has to offer.” Khadijah tells her husband with the perfect pronunciation of the town—or rather department as France calls it.

Rio raises the hand the rests against his wife’s shoulder, “heard you, mamas. No arguing on my part but you know it’s beneficial to have reset days too.”

“Which YouTuber told you that?” Khadijah smirks up at the buzz haired man, figuring that he was probably logged onto her account instead of switching over to his own to watch whatever it is he gets into.

Rio snorts, “don’t try and play me, my aesthetician did.”

“Of course they did.” Khadijah nods believing that since Rio didn’t mess around when it came to his skincare, “and you’re right, there’s nothing wrong with rest days. You’ve been running around x2 compared to me so I get it. You get a nap in and I’ll get the bags ready since we have what? An hour before the service comes and gets us.”

Rio grips Khadijah’s hand as she gets up from the couch, “you sure all an hour is what you need?”

“Shut up, Christopher.” Khadijah laughs, matching Rio’s smile before leaving the man to get his nap on.

With the city life behind the married couple, they settled in Dordogne late last night into the 18th century home. Surprisingly Rio wakes up late the next day, like around eleven am late compared to his seven am timeline. However Khadijah doesn’t mind letting him sleep, snapping a picture of his rest with the camera she brought along for the trip. She watches the clock from time to time, knowing just when to order breakfast to be sent to their room.

Khadijah’s sitting on a olive couch pushed underneath the windows which are half pulled back, sipping on caffe viennese, stomach half full from a classic French breakfast as she stares out into the scenery acting like the main character in a Victorian film.

“Morning, mamas. You starting the day without me?” Rio’s rough morning voice greets the brown skinned woman, who glances over her shoulder at him.

A soft smile meets her full lips, “good morning but someone has to get this party started. But don’t worry, I’ll never not let you in on the thrill. Got you one of these,” she holds the mug up in the air, nodding with her chin on the nightstand next to the man, “and there’s breakfast waiting for you underneath the cloche.”

“Did I mention hearing you speak French is sexy?” Rio states as he slowly sits up in bed, rubbing the sleep out of his eyes.

Khadijah smirks, “plenty when you were tipsy on the late night ride here.”

“I regret nothing,” Rio laughs before turning to reach and sip at the warm coffee, “this is delicious.”

Khadijah pops her tongue, “Yeah it is.”

“What we doin’ today? Hold up, what time is it?” Rio turns his eyes into slits, reaching for his phone to let out a low whistle, “damn, haven’t slept that long—

“Since you got shot?”

Rio let’s out a cough, “whoa, that was dark.”

“Sorry,” Khadijah says, “kinda just slipped out.”

“Something you wanna talk about, Dija?” Rio hums, staring at his wife from their temporary shared bed.

Khadijah shakes her head, “nothing I want to get into on this brand new day, no. So!”

She uncurls her feet from underneath her to stand in her floral print lace trim set, placing a smile on her lips as she plops down on the bed. Taking a quick sip of the coffee again, she places it on her side of the nightstand and reaches inside to pull out two slips of paper.

“Close your eyes.”

“Why?” Rio suspiciously tries to peek at the papers but Khadijah slaps them right on her chest.

“You asked what we’re gonna do.”

“Didn’t you say exploring some house last night?” Rio frowns, trying to remember.

Khadijah’s little smile to herself seems wicked but as soon as it appeared it vanished while she wiggled a bit on the bed, “that’s tonight’s adventure after dinner. We have at least a few hours before then to do something else so…pick one, anyone.”

The two options were: Château des Milandes OR Canoeing on the Brantôme.

Rio doesn’t wipe the frown off his brows but holds out his thumb and pointer finger while Khadijah holds onto the deck of two pieces. The tatted man makes a show of taking his time debating, just to irritate Khadijah for a little until he smiles picking the paper to the left.

And the winner is…

“Great choice! Now get your butt up and let’s shower, they’ve been open since 9 this morning.”

Chateau des Milandes!

Rio hums as he studies the paper, sipping at his coffee then replies, “can I enjoy my breakfast along with the view first?”

Khadijah dramatically sighs as she flops beside Rio, resting on her elbow to stare back at the ajar windows, “oh fine but I promise you, the one outside is much better.”

“personally I like the one right next to me.”

Khadijah flicks her head back to meet Rio’s brown eyes and she can’t help but to let a smile split over her lips, then puckering them for Rio to peck and lick his own smiling lips afterwards, “you think you’re so smooth.”

“I mean give a guy some credit. How else do you think I got you?” Rio chuckled while Khadijah just nodded her head from side to side mockingly.

“Just eat your food Christopher.”

It was Rio’s turn to mimic his wife.

“Aight, Khadijah.” He said over his shoulder, sitting on his knees and reaching over for the second tray of food.

Chateau Des Milandes was a sight to see and was a wonderful experience. Ugh!!! here Khadijah was sounding like her very emotional Granny Mozella but she never took moments like these with Rio for granted. On the outside it may seem like Rio was only street smart since that’s what he preferred yet he didn’t mind listening in on historical facts from time to time and no he wasn’t really into podcasts—unless it was true crime content—but no one could ever say he wasn’t open to learning new material and translating it into his own life.

He was good at finding purpose in anything.

He also liked draping his arm across Khadijah’s shoulders as they took the tour around the home that used to be owned by the successful Josephine Baker. That was more interesting to Khadijah than the Lords that lived it way before Ms. Baker but nonetheless they took it all in together including the architecture.

No one could deny that France had a way with its design and art.

They explored the garden, which led to a picnic and wine for dinner with the French sunset as the perfect backdrop, then they ended their time at the Chateau with a bird experience, much to Rio’s surprise as Khadijah winked and placed a kiss on the tattoo on his neck, before clenching onto his arm for dear life once the various of birds—specifically the one that was very similar to the one on Rio’s skin started flying around.

Rio found amusement in that, even when they made it back to the rental car.

“If that big ass bird would have crapped on me, we would have been having a whole different type of bird for thanksgiving this year.” Khadijah continuously checked her outfit for any unfamiliar marks, the paranoia getting to her.

Rio couldn’t help but to throw his head back against the headrest laughing. “They’ve been trained, that wasn’t gonna happen. Plus it may just wanted a strand of your hair for warmth, huh? French winters can be brutal so I hear.”

The man went to curl a strand of his wife’s loose curl that framed her face who scoffed at him.

“You’re far from funny, Mr. Montoya.” Khadijah slapped his hand away to fix her pin curl updo in the drop down mirror.

Rio chuckled some more, watching her, “you’re right…I’m hilarious, Mrs. Montoya.”

“Im glad you had fun, baby. I can tell the bird part was your favorite,” Khadijah gave the man a playful side eye, “but now it’s time for my activity.”

Rio glanced at the watch on his wrist, “it’s going on seven…what else you trying to get into besides drinking more wine and eating cheese?”

“Whew! No more cheese for me.” Khadijah flicked the sun visor back up, “so…I have this other place to visit.”

Rio tapped on the GPS, “aight, what’s the address?”

“I don’t think the GPS will fully locate it…just to a certain point.”

Rio thought about this for a second and asked, “what? It’s some underground event or something?”

“Well sure, yeah. Kinda.” Khadijah shrugged her shoulders making Rio sigh and sit back with his hands clasped.

Khadijah was tapping away on her phone for a moment while Rio just studied her. When she realized the car wasn’t moving, Khadijah turned her attention back to Rio who was patiently waiting for her to come right on out with it.

“We’re not going anywhere until you give me the info I need. No shady shit allowed.”

Khadijah turned sideways to face Rio, “Okay so…there’s this house that we should see.”

“You said that already. But Why? To buy?”

“Hell no,” Khadijah was quick to say, further making Rio put his guard up as to what this whole adventure was even about, “I mean no…yeah no that’s exactly what I mean. It wouldn’t be for us to live…just to see.”

Rio pried, “what’s so special about it?”

“It has a colorful story.”

“Which is…?”

“The year was 1666–

“Nah,” Rio immediately said leaning forward to start the engine but Khadijah flew her hand out to stop Rio from switching the gears.

“You didn’t let me finish.”

Rio leans on the console to completely face Khadijah, “by the way you’re dragging this out let’s me know you’re about to tell me some bullshit, that you know I’m not about to let fly.”

“Can’t a bitch add some extra flavor to the tale?” Khadijah scrunches up her face, “Sheesh.”

“Stop playin’ with me, Dija.”

“So hostile,” Khadijah flicked her hair off her shoulder, “alright you want the synopsis? Got it. So this house is special because during the year of 1666 a woman named Blanche lived there with her father, mother, two siblings, and new husband. Allegedly she was later accused of poisoning her family and beheaded her husband after they all suspected she was a witch because of some rumors started at the hospital she volunteered at. Her sickly father was the one to put her down after his wife and other children slowly started to die one by one. They say Blanche still haunts the home and asks when and or if you visit, to leave a ribbon and tea bag’s on their front step as a offering and for her to rid any vengeance in your life.”

Rio caressed his facial hair in thought, “Question for you, mamas? Did that eagle peck at your brain when i wasn’t around or…”

Khadijah sucks her teeth, “it’s spooky season, asshole!”

“I know that,” Rio lifts his shoulders carelessly, “but you’re trying to get into some serious shit and I can tell you one thing: I’m not feelin’ it.”

“Are you scared?” Khadijah leaned into the center console ready to comfort him, “I never said we had to go inside the house. Just see it and leave something for Blanche.”

Rio didn’t miss how Khadijah started to trail her hands over him but he didn’t fold, “Her business ain’t ours.”

It was Khadijah’s turn to laugh now, “you’re definitely scared!”

“No I’m not.” Rio scowled, “I’m just saying you have to be careful what you expose yourself to. I told moms we’d bring her back a baby, not a witch that may latch onto your body.”

Khadijah frowns, “why would you think Blanche would latch onto mine and not yours?”

“Whoever! And I really can’t wrap my head around the fact that you’re trying to mess with some spirits.”

Khadijah wasn’t trying to “‘mess with spirits,” she always respected the dead but this sounded better than visiting the catacombs to be honest.

So she challenged, “Hey! It’s something to do.”

“I can find plenty of other things we can get into.” Rio placed his chin into the palm of his hand, “We’re not about to be here much longer anyway.”

Khadijah sighs as she grabs Rio’s hand to place in her lap, “I’ll let you try out our new toy at the same time while you’re inside…”

Rio’s eyes begin to darken as they meet Khadijah’s much lighter ones. This was a promising bargain and this Khadijah knew as Rio trailed his own hand up her stomach, between her breasts, and to grip her chin.

“You’re lucky I love you,” Rio states as he presses their lips together and leads the way with his tongue dancing along hers.

It’s passionate and a little nasty just the way the married couple liked their kisses but brief enough that he leaves Khadijah panting on the passenger side. He smirks to himself, lifting up from the driver’s side to pull out his Glock 17 from his black jeans to rest on the dashboard.

“Put your seatbelt on,” Rio tells Khadijah who shortly follows through, “and not a word of this to my abuelita.”

Khadijah makes a cross my heart motion as Rio puts the car in drive.

The drive to this supposed haunted home was a good half hour north from where they were staying and the decline of the countryside was clear. There seemed to be no livelihood as the skies got even darker. Rio could sense to the left of him that Khadijah seemed to be at unease the deeper they got into the area.

He checks in, “How we doing?”

“Hm? Oh, there it is. Stop.”

Rio turns his attention back to the lack of road up ahead and notices that there’s a tunnel with no lighting. He steps on the breaks, witnessing to the left of the tunnel the narrow road carried upwards to what exactly? That he didn’t know. There was no homes or animals in sight on this drive since they started getting further away from the chateau.

“What’s this?”

“That’s the tunnel that leads to Blanche’s house.” Khadijah is sitting on the edge of the passenger seat now.

Rio tightens his hold on the steering wheel, eyes scanning the scenery with the help of the automatic headlights. If they went through that tunnel, which was surely to be just as narrow as the roads out here in the countryside he wasn’t positive they would make it back. His intuition  was telling him since the beginning that this didn’t feel right and being physically here was enough to confirm that for Rio.

Turning his eyes into slits towards the right of the tunnel, Rio can see a decaying headstone with a bunch of colorful ribbons tossed around and possibly some rocks that were most likely teabags scattered below it.

“This is what you came for,” Rio says keeping his eyes on the road.

“Oui-Oui.” Khadijah says suddenly halfhearted and any other time Rio would have laughed but the expression on her face made him aware that the tension was also felt by her as well.

Rio steps on the gas, driving full speed towards the tunnel but stops just at edge, parallel to the headstone, making Khadijah grip the dashboard at the abruptness.

“Get going, sweetheart.” Rio tells Khadijah with a lift of his chin.

Khadijah swallows, prying her eyes away from the tunnel then to the headstone and back to her husband. “W-what? You’re not coming with me?”

“I never said I was going in there. I have sense.” Rio tapped at his temple.

Khadijah glares, “wow. So here’s to trying new things was just another one of your lies then huh?”

“Another? Don’t go there, I’m not doing that with you this evening. You brought this terrible idea to me and I brought you here so go head, show me you’re the one who isn’t scared.” Rio’s hardened stare was now on the fuming woman.

Khadijah didn’t know what the fuck Rio’s problem was and why he thought this energy was okay? Khadijah didn’t like Rio’s tone so she snatched her baguette bag from beside her feet and went to push on the door but remained right inside.

“Are you serious?!”

Rio made a U-Turn and began driving back in the direction they came, “are you forreal thinking I’m about to have our asses messing around with the actual dead? Let alone your indecisive ass? And we don’t even have the full context?”

“I mean…do you not have bodies? You don’t see me questioning you about them.” Khadijah muttered.

Rio snapped his eyes to his wife, “two completely different things and you know that.”

It really wasn’t but okay, if Rio hated her riding the fence then let’s see if he hated it now.

“Whatever.” Khadijah slouched against the seat, “You just wasted our time, like why entertain the fact that you were with it if you’re just gonna try to clown me?”

“I wasn’t letting you do that and you should have known that.” Rio clenched his jaw, “I would never willingly put you in harm’s way and that’s exactly what you were signing up for.”

Khadijah knows Rio wouldn’t and if she wanted to be petty she could but she just mumbles, “You just ruined spooky season in France like?”

“Better throw that ribbon and teabags out the window and get glad. Who knows what would have happened if we went down that dark ass tunnel with only the Glock against a whole spirit mind you, that we don’t even know if she’s still vengeful or not.”

“I mean you make valid arguments…and I don’t even know if the house is still standing. The last update online was from 2021 so I guess I can’t be too pressed about it.” Khadijah explains as she starts to search through her bag, “but you can’t say I was indecisive this time, yet you locked me in here like I’m a child.”

Rio deeply exhales, rubbing at his face in slight aggravation, “yeah we gotta get back to Detroit and quick. I think you need to go back to work and continue spreading peaceful energy at that non-profit instead whatever this is.”

“What?” Khadijah sucked her teeth, “Trying to be on theme?”

“We could easily rent a movie at the spot and call it a day.”

“I wanna be one with nature!”

“As soon as we get far away from Blanche’s murder site, I’ll take the locks off so you can touch some grass.”

“Ohhhh, I cannot stand you!” Khadijah scowled followed by some laughter before ghosting her fingers over the window button, “is this going to work for me or am I still being held hostage?”

Rio just hums to himself, glancing in the rear view spotting a blur of white in the distance along with something that wasn’t tumbleweed rolling right by their feet.

Khadijah doesn’t notice as she cracks the window to toss a pink ribbon and a teabag out on the dirt road.

And when she looks in the rearview, she doesn’t see anything unusual or creepy. So she rolls her window back up and presses her elbow into the arm of the door, resting her cheek along her fingers, watching the night scenery whip by her highlighter eyes.

Soon Rio’s hand reaches for the Glock to rest in the cup holders before sneaking his hand over to bring Khadijah’s hand up to his lips. He knew she was a little sour with him over this and probably a bunch of other built up issues but Khadijah always tried to make the best of it.

Rio was trying to get better at validating her feelings but this shit right here was not it and Khadijah knew that inside. Which is why he had a more safer route up his sleeve to spend the day with Khadijah tomorrow since celebrating Halloween was apparently too american for the French. So he did the best that he could choosing a theme park that would be “on theme” for Khadijah’s spooky cravings.

That would be his gift to her and routine of keeping her best interest at heart, even if she didn’t fully want to see it that way sometimes…

Ah, she’ll be aight.

𒅒𒈔𒅒𒇫𒄆 𒅒𒈔𒅒𒇫𒄆 𒅒𒈔

Continue along with my October anthology prompts here.

[e1dritchjackal0pe]

Is it just me or is Rio hella Agora Hills coded ???

[undevidedattentionsblog]

HURRY TF UP AND MAKE A CONNIE X BLACK READER FIC NOWWW

[saiilorstars]

OC HALLOWEEN CHALLENGE 2024. Day Twenty-Five: HORROR LOCATION

This is an easier throwback to one of the week long challenges we've done for this event. Make something that tells a horror story of your oc at a certain location such as a Hospital/Asylum, Summer Camp, Place of Worship, Cemetery/Tomb, House/Apartment, Hotel/Cabin, or Farm/Ranch.

As Citlalli constantly travels to return lost/stolen artifacts, she often comes across dangerous places. Many of her destinations are secluded communities which lead her through less-traveled forests. As a mediator between humans and animals, she feels a little more secure when she ventures through these uncharted territories.

Citlalli's Masterlist

Taglist: @ocappreciationtag @arthurpendragonns @maaaaarveeeeel @stareyedplanet @lenonizi @foxesandmagic @kmc1989 @caplanbuckybarnes

[pantherastevens]

His Sunshine in the Darkness: I'm Safe in Her Heart

Back again with anotha' one. Welcome to His Sunshine in the Darkness Part Two!

Here is where things start picking up. You should already have idea of what's about to go down in this chapter so I'm not even gonna hold y'all.

Here's Part One, in case any of you guys missed it!

Enjoy!

Warnings: Main Character Death

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

Everything was going so well for Miles... until it wasn't.

It all happened so fast. It was the start of summer, Miles' sophomore year becoming nothing more than a distant sweet memory. His dad left for work that morning, along with his mom. One of the last things he told him,

"Have a good day at work, papá. I love you." Jefferson smiled that good-natured smile, hugging his son in his famous bear hugs as the boy laughed at his antics.

"Will do, son. I love you too." And he was out the door with a large hand around his mom's waist.

That was the last time he'd seen him so alive.

The next time Miles would see his dad was in the hospital, lying on the bed with his mother weeping over his body. He and Uncle Aaron stood behind her. He felt the weight of his tío's hand on his shoulder while he rubbed his mamá's heaving back.

It was the only thing teetering him to this Earth. The only thing that was keeping him mentally here. He could feel the memories of what had happened earlier that led him to this point.

Seeing the building collapse from the window of his room.

Turning on the news to see his dad's body placed in an ambulance.

Reading the news headline, "NYPD Captain in Critical Condition After Saving A Little Girl From Building Collapse."

Seeing Uncle Aaron on the other side of the door, telling Miles they were going to the hospital to see his dad.

Clinging onto Uncle Aaron as he sped through the streets on his motorcycle, silently praying for his dad to be alright.

Hearing his dad's final words as he stood on Death's doorstep. 

"I will always love you, Rio. You're... the love of my life. Aaron, despite... despite our differences, you'll always... always be my baby brother. Take... take care of Rio and Miles for me, yeah? And... Miles... you'll always be my son. My pride... and joy. P-Panthera... is a good girl for you... she'll t-take care of your heart like your mom has done for me... Just know that... Whatever... you choose to do, I-I know you'll be great at it. I... I believe in you. Never forget that... I love all of you... I love you..."

The sound of the heart monitor flatlining in time with his dad's final confession and the limpness on his hand on all of theirs was deafening. 

Just like that... Jefferson Morales was gone. Taking part of his family's heart with him to the great beyond.

The next few days felt like a blur. The most Miles remembers was watching the news, trying to understand why.

Why he now had to grow up with a father. Why his mother had to continue on this journey called life without her husband. Why his uncle had to bury his older brother so damn soon.

Why. Why? Why?!

The answer? A premeditated plan made by some unknown gang. Since being sworn into his position, Jeff had to deal with the steady rise in crime in Brooklyn. He has done a great job thus far, which made criminals hate him even more. What is the best way to solve the problem?

Get rid of him by any means necessary.

The statement left in his dad's office at the station by said gang about his demise said that much.

That stuck with Miles.

While everyone else was enjoying their summer, Miles spent his time rotting away in his bed. His normally pristine room was a wreck from the rage fit he had when he returned from the hospital.

Plenty of his classmates had stopped by the apartment to offer their condolences, but Miles could barely remember who showed up. Miles never felt more out of touch with reality in his short life.

Uncle Aaron and his mother worked together to put together the funeral. Miles never questioned his tío on how he managed to get the funds to pay for everything, and neither did his mother, who was just grateful to have the funds in the first place.

Then the day came. 

Miles was awake in the wee hours of the morning, sightlessly staring up at the ceiling. The boy knew he was nowhere ready to face it.

The physical manifestation that his dad was never coming back.

But he knew he had to.

The mother and son showered, ate breakfast, and dressed in their respective black dress and suit in silence. They went to the local church early so his mother could ensure everything was in order. Miles sat on the steps outside. Aaron arrived soon after, patting the boy on the shoulder, who nodded in acknowledgment, before heading inside to ensure his sister-in-law didn't stress herself even more.

Soon, it was time for the funeral to start. He, his mom, and Uncle Aaron stood towards the church entrance. A lot of Miles' classmates and their parents showed up. Some of his teachers too. Some old friends from his old school showed up. A lot of his dad's coworkers came as well. Members of his mom's side of the family showed up, at least who could on such short notice. Uncle Aaron and his mom did handle most of the conversations. Miles just nodded in acknowledgment. 

Until she showed up.

Miles always considered Panthera to be an angel. But he didn't expect her to come to her to come as one. 

While everyone, including his family, showed up wearing black, she and her father, whom Miles finally had the opportunity to meet, showed up in white with white face paint adorning their features.

Miles felt a bit of himself return to reality for the first time since the hospital.

Panthera had left Brooklyn with her dad to visit Oakland just a few days before his dad passed away. He texted her what happened, which led to a late-night FaceTime call with her comforting him. A part of him desperately wanted her to be there with him, hold him, and comfort him. But he knew that she couldn't. When she promised to be there for the funeral, it eased his bleeding heart for the night.

Seeing her physically in front of him was like a breath of fresh air after being underwater for so long...

Miles finally tuned in to the conversation being had between the adults.

"No disrespect or anything, Eric, but um... why white," Aaron asked as he took in the outfits of the young man he helped years ago and his daughter.

"It's customary in our culture to wear white to funerals," Eric answered easily. Aaron raised a brow at this but accepted this.

"Well, thank you for coming and honoring my husband in your unique way, Mr. Stevens and Panthera. Your... Your support means a lot," Rio spoke up, her voice shaky. Eric squeezed her hand.

"Please, call me Eric. And, of course. I'm sorry I never got to meet the man himself, but from Panthera has told me about him... it sounds like he was an amazing man and an incredible father..." Eric's eyes focused on Miles. "I know what it's like to lose a dad. Just know you're always welcome in our home if you ever need it..." With a pat on the boy's shoulder, Eric entered the church. Panthera was about to follow her father when someone grabbed her hand. She turned to find Miles' eyes nervously searching her own.

"I... C-Could you sit next to me during the service, gatita?" Panthera's brows nearly kissed her hairline at the sudden request. She wasn't family, so she had no real reason to be with them...

...but she could see that Miles wanted her to be by his side. No... needed her to be by his side.

"...If it's alright with your mother and uncle, then sure," she said softly. The pair turned to Rio and Aaron, who were already observing the exchange. Rio gave the girl a watery smile, hugging the girl tightly.

"Of course, you can. We already consider you to be family, mija. Please, sit with us." Panthera hugged the grieving widow back.

"Then it will be my honor..."

Soon, the group entered the church to start the service.

Aaron acted as Rio's pillar of support, and Panthera acted as Miles' as they made their way down the aisle. Panthera sent a silent look to her Baba, who seemed to understand that she would be with family rather than with him. His eyes softened at the boy walking beside her, knowing he needed a friend, and Eric was proud that Panthera could be that friend. Miles had a death grip on Panthera's arm as they walked through the pews with people staring at them. Luckily, his precious gatita didn't seem to mind, rubbing his arm soothingly as she offered her quiet support. Soon they were finally in front of the casket.

An open casket.

From the side, Jeff looked as if he was sleeping. It's not until you get closer you see the enormous gash on the other side of his head. The suit concealed his other injuries well.

Still, the sight of his body was enough to break Aaron, Miles, and Rio into tears. Miles couldn't cry for days. Upon hearing the news of his father's condition, the numbness he felt seeped into his bones and nervous systems, stifling all other emotions.

But now? It was like the floodgates were broken, splintered into millions of tiny, unfixable pieces. He collapsed on his knees alongside his mother, crying for a man long gone. Aaron stared at his brother's face as he held his grieving widow, tears running down his angular face like neverending waterfalls. Panthera's comforting arms found their way around Miles' shoulders, a few tears escaping her eyes into his hair.

"I'm here, Mi. Let it all out. I'll still be here..."

The service soon started after Miles and his family calmed down. A slideshow of Jeff throughout his life played on a projector in the background. A choir sang. Tears were shed. And the sermon was preached. Miles felt himself zone in and out until the preacher focused on him specifically, bringing him back with sharp focus.

"For the Bible says in Romans 13 verse 4, "...if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword in vain. For he is the servant of God, an avenger who carries out God's wrath on the wrongdoer." Young man... Your father died protecting this city and its citizens. I'm sure one of the things he taught you was to follow your conscience... in an often cruel world. Trust in that. Trust and believe in your heart that the criminals who took him away will face judgment."

Miles felt something twist in his chest as he looked at the preacher, giving a slow nod. Aaron didn't have to look to know that his nephew was glancing at him periodically as the preacher continued his message.

He knew there was gonna be a talk later.

When the man was done, it was time for those who wanted to share a few last words to take a stand and go to the front of the church.

Rio gave a heartfelt speech about her husband and how they spent many happy years together in their marriage.

Uncle Aaron talked about their childhood and how even though Jeff was a pain in the neck to him, he'll always be his older brother and will always love him as such.

Some of Jeff's coworkers spoke on his leadership, his love for the law, and his heart always wanting to serve and protect those who needed it most.

It took Miles a bit of courage to go up, but with reassuring hugs from his family and Panthera, he made his way to the podium. He shared how much of a loving, caring, doting, protective, and goofy dad he was—reminiscing on all the good, bad, and ugly times in their relationship. How much he loves him, even then, as he gazes at his dad's coffin.

"I remember the last thing I told you was 'I love you.' And... only God knows h-how glad I-I am that was the last thing I ever s-said to you. I know there were t-times wh-where we d-didn't see eye to eye, b-but you were still m-my dad at the e-end of the day... a-and I was still your s-son. I-I hope you're a-at peace, d-dad.Te quiero... te quiero mucho papá..." The boy couldn't hold back his tears, sobbing into the sleeve of his suit jacket. The boy couldn't see past his tears as he staggered away from the podium. Luckily, he didn't need to see.

He felt Panthera's familiar embrace wrap around his waist, silently urging him to lean on her as she led him back to their assigned bench. The girl silently handed him off to his mother, who immediately wrapped him in her arms and kissed his forehead. Through his sobs, he heard the preacher ask for one more person to come up before they ended, and much to his surprise, Panthera gracefully turned on heel and made her way back up to the podium.

She pulled the wireless mic from the stand before turning her attention to address the crowd.

"Hello, everyone. My name is Panthera Stevens. A close friend of Miles Morales... I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Morales towards the end of my freshman year. Upon our first meeting, I could see how fiercely he loved. How he would tenderly gaze at Mrs. Morales. How warmly he would watch Miles speak about our experiences and interactions. How welcoming he was to me, curious and willing to open his home to someone his son befriended. Since then, I have spent much time with the family. They made me feel as if I was family. He spoke to me as if I was a daughter than just a friend of his beloved son. I could see where Miles got his heart from..." The family gazed up at the girl in awe as she spoke. Her eyes were sparkling with unshed tears, but her voice remained steady and resolute. Panthera's warm gaze lingered on the trio.

"What happened to Jefferson Morales was sudden, tragic, and heartbreaking. I know... I know it may seem as if this is the end of life, but I beg to differ. You see... in my culture, my father's culture, my grandfather's culture... death is not the end. It's more of a... stepping-off point. You reach out with both hands, and Bast and Sekhmet... they lead you to the green veld where you can run forever. We celebrate the life the person lived on this plane and the start of their new one in the plane beyond, which is why we dress in white. He may not be here with us physically, but he will always live in the hearts he touched while he was here. If the family permits, I love to sing one song in his honor and memory." Rio nodded to the girl, giving a weepy smile. 

A member rushed up to the front; one quick conversation was all needed before sprinting away.

Soon the instrumental of the song played through the stereo system.

"Stand if you would like. Mr. Morales... Jeff, this for you..."

If you were to ask Miles to describe Panthera's voice in one word, he would say "passionate." He's heard her sing many times before, but this time...

It was like she was pouring out everything within her to sing this song in front of everyone. To say the words his father could no longer say for himself. From the corner of his eye, he could see his mother clasp both hands over her heart, beaming despite her heartache. Aaron's eyes shimmered with pride, happy to see his brother's philosophy performed so beautifully by a girl he would've loved to see become his daughter-in-law. Panthera approached the family, a ghost of a smile could be seen on her lips.

"I just want them to know..." 

She grasped Aaron's large hand with her small one, squeezing comfortingly, "That he gave his all, did his best..."

Panthera moved on to Rio, hugging her briefly but fiercely, "Brought people some happiness..."

She stopped in front of Miles, cupping the back of his neck so he could rest his forehead against hers for a moment. His teary tawny eyes met her warm expresso ones. "Left this world a little better just because..."

The girl turned to face the closed casket, a single tear escaping her eye. "He was here..."

Panthera sang the song's final lines with all she had, laying a single hand over the smooth wood of the casket as she sang the last line. When she finished, the crowd burst into tearful applause, but she wasn't paying them any mind. Her gaze remained focused on the closed lid that hid its occupant from sight.

"Rest in Power, Jefferson Morales..."

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

The funeral procession made its way to the cemetery. Panthera and Eric ended up riding with the family at the insistence of Rio and Aaron. The adults were talking amongst themselves while Miles held onto Panthera in silence. Panthera mindlessly rubbed Miles' neck as his face was hidden in hers.

"You okay, Mi," she asked softly, not wanting to draw too much attention to them. She felt him nod, lips brushing against her sensitive skin.

"Just wanna hold you..." The girl let out a mute chuckle, relaxing further in the boy's arms, much to his delight.

"Of course, anything for you..."

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

The burial was a quick affair. When the time came to lay Jeff to rest, everyone was emotionally haggard. When everyone threw in their choice of flowers, Panthera and Eric threw in a single Black-Eye Susan.

Eric and Panthera silently crossed their arms over their chests as the dirt was thrown to cover the coffin.

"Phumla ngoku, joni," Eric whispered. Panthera felt her bottom lip wobble but stood strong alongside her Baba.

"Enkosi ngenkonzo yakho... siyakuthanda," she said quietly.

It was finished. 

Here Lies Jefferson Morales: Father, Husband, Brother, Hero.

Rest in Peace...

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

It's been about two hours after the funeral and burial, and Miles hasn't moved from his position on the couch for about an hour and a half. Aaron had stepped out for a while, promising to return by dinner. His mother had decided to take some time to sleep before deciding on dinner.

It would most likely be takeout again. Rio Morales hasn't had the energy to cook since Jeff died. The most she'll do is figure out what her son and brother-in-law were in the mood for and go from there.

Miles was mulling over what he could possibly eat tonight when there was a knock on the door. The boy huffed from his position on the couch, not in the mood to deal with any more people for the day. Whoever it was seemingly didn't get the message and knocked again, more insistently. Miles glared tiredly at the barrier, hoping the person would get the hint and go away.

Soon his phone started to ring. LOUDLY.

The song "Hide" played through the phone speakers, immediately alerting Miles of who was calling him.

Panthera.

The boy scrambled to answer the call.

"P-Panthera," he asked slowly, confused as to why she was calling.

"Mi! I know you're inside, get off your ass and open the door before my arms give out!" Miles didn't need to be told twice, as he could literally hear her annoyance over the phone and outside his front door.

He met with the sight of Panthera and his father holding bags and containers. The pair were dressed down, wearing matching black wife beaters, gray sweats, and black socks with black Nike slides.

Miles blinked owlishly as he moved back to make room for the duo to enter his home (shoes off, of course) and head to the kitchen.

"Not be rude or anything, but... why are you two here," Miles asked as they set everything down on the counter or on the floor. Eric gave the boy a smirk.

"Your mom has mentioned to Panthera in passing how you all have been eating takeout more often than an actual home-cooked meal. My little girl has taken it upon herself to change that and make dinner for you all." Panthera glared playfully at her father, smacking his chest.

"Not little," she mumbled, completely ignoring how she was the shortest of the group. Miles and Eric chuckled, choosing not to comment on it.

"Sure, gatita. Thank you for Panthera... for everything." The girl spared a glance at her friend, finding a tired, vulnerable, yet grateful expression on his face. She sent him a small smile.

"Think nothing of it, Mi. Now go to sleep. You look half dead," she said, shooing the boy away. The boy let out a tired chuckle, leaning over to brush a sleepy kiss on the girl's temple before he went on his way. Eric raised a brow at that.

"Baby girl?" Panthera looked up to her father, who had a thoughtful look.

"That boy Miles... do you think he likes you more than just a friend," Eric quietly asked, not wanting to be overheard. 

'I love you, mi vida...' Panthera cleared her throat, pulling the produce she'll need for the recipe she had in mind for tonight.

"What makes you say that," she asked instead, cleaning off the veggies in the sink. A hand landed on her shoulder, forcing the girl to acknowledge her father's presence.

"I'm serious, Panthera. I know he's grieving the loss of his father, and it's wonderful that he has someone like you in his corner. He seems really comfortable with you to be considered just a friend..." Panthera pursed her lips, mulling over her next words.

"...It wouldn't surprise me if he liked me like that... I like him too, Baba. Very much," Panthera whispered, glancing at the slumbering boy on the family couch. Eric could see the soft look in his daughter's eyes as she looked at him. She didn't have to admit this to him. Eric knew Panthera loved the boy. And he could see Miles' love for her, clear as day whenever he looked at her...

But there was something there. Something... darker...

Maybe it was just Eric, but he could see a bit of himself in Miles. He lost his father when he was a young boy, having to witness his body grow colder and colder until nothing but a shell remained. He had to grow up alone. All Eric wanted was to be seen. 

To be heard. 

To be loved. 

But he was left alone, unable to get into contact with the people who seemingly rejected his father—rejected him. 

If he had someone like his daughter in his corner, he would've done anything and everything to keep them in his life. 

Even if it meant getting rid of others that stood between him and his person.

He would burn it all if it meant that one person who showed their love to an unfortunate soul such as himself would stay, be with him, and continue to love him. All because he loved them.

And if they didn't... well... they would have forever to learn to love him again, now wouldn't they?

Eric mentally shook off that last thought and looked at his daughter, who was looking up at him, those dark eyes peering curiously into his own.

"I know you do, inkosazana yam encinci. Anybody would be lucky enough to have your love... just be careful." Eric watched as Panthera's brows pinched in confusion.

"What do you mean, Baba..." Eric sighed, gazing at the occupant in the next room over.

"Love is a powerful emotion. It could empower you, give you purpose, and make this thing called life all the more worth it... but sometimes, it can change one's moral compass. Make them wanna do anything and everything to keep it close. People do unexplainable things when they're in love... I just want to know that the person that falls in love with my little girl can make her happy the same way she makes them happy. Freely..." Panthera hugged her father.

She wasn't entirely sure what to make of his words, but she knew that there was a reason behind it all. Maybe he'll explain it more when she's older...

"I'll do my best to be careful, Baba. Ndiyakuthandana," she mumbled into his broad chest. The man hugged her back, squeezing her.

"Nam ndiyakuthanda..." He kissed her forehead.

"I have to go now. I have another job tonight. You going to be okay," Eric asked softly. Panthera nodded.

"I'll be fine, Baba, I know things are getting worse ever since Mr. Morales died, but you took a lot of precautions to make sure I can defend myself if necessary. Hopefully, I can get home before it gets too late, but if not, I'll see if I could spend the night here and go home in the morning," Panthera said. Eric nodded. It wasn't the first time Panthera had spent the night at the Morales household, so either way, Eric can trust she'll be in good hands.

"Okay. Bye, baby girl, see you soon..." The girl followed her dad to the front door.

"Bye, Baba, see you later."

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

Miles awoke to the smells of rich spices and seasoned meat a few hours later. The boy blinked blearily, eyes catching sight of Panthera cooking and dancing to the music playing through his portable speaker in the kitchen. Miles sighed dreamily as he watched his little wife-

I mean girlfriend-

I MEAN, FRIEND!

Yes, friend, make herself more comfortable in his home. It seemed so natural for Panthera to be there. God, what he would give to have something like this every day...

Panthera turned around, finding Miles' sleepy grin there to greet her. She smiled.

"Hey there, sleepyhead. How are you," she cooed, walking over to the couch. The Afro-Latino immediately sat up, pulling the girl into his lap before she could try to find open space on the couch. Panthera raised a brow at this.

"Mi, I'm not a teddy bear, you know," she drawled as Miles nuzzled her neck.

"Mmm... yes, you are. You're my teddy bear," he mumbled, pressing his lips against her throat as if to imprint those words onto her skin. Panthera chuckled, trying to pull Miles out of his hiding place only for him to let out a whine of complaint. 

"Nooooooo..." She could partially feel his pout.

"C'mon, Mi, let me up. I need to double-check to see how the food's doing." As if on cue, Miles' stomach let out a loud growl. Panthera laughed freely, knowing the boy was blushing.

"C'mon, you can come with me, and we'll see if I can feed the beast from within," she teased, poking his belly. The boy let out a disgruntled grumble before releasing the girl, simpering happily as she held his hand to lead him into the kitchen. 

"Smells amazing, gatita. What're you making," Miles asked as he watched Panthera taste-test the dish.

"Injera, Doro Wat, and Gomen, it's Ethiopian Spicy Chicken Stew and Collard Greens served a Flatbread," Panthera said offhandedly, leaning into Miles' embrace when she felt his arms make themselves at home around her waist. Miles rested his head on the girl's shoulder, curious.

"Want a bite," Panthera offered. After a small nod, Panthera guided a forkful of chicken dipped in sauce into the boy's awaiting mouth. The boy let out a happy moan at the series of flavors exploding on his tongue.

"Ohmygod," he groaned, squeezing the girl. Panthera smiled at the reaction.

"Good," she asked, even though she already knew the answer.

"Mhmmmm... I'm so marrying you so I can have this for the rest of my life," he said. Panthera burst out laughing. Little did the girl know that Miles was being dead serious.

"Relax, Mi. I'm not going anywhere anytime soon. Plus, we're still years away from even thinking about that," Panthera chuckled, plating the food.

"Can you go set the table and wake up your mother? I'll finish plating everything and wash the rest of the dishes." Miles nodded, kissing Panthera's cheek before wandering off. The girl paused a bit, blushing.

'That felt... oddly romantic? I mean, we did almost kiss at his dad's party, but it's not like either of us has really made a move since then. What changed? Could Baba really be onto something here?'

Before the girl could think harder on the matter, she heard the front door open and close, hearing Aaron announcing his presence.

"Umalume! Just in time for dinner," she smiled. The older man looked surprised to see her, similar to Rio, as she groggily trailed behind her son, who immediately helped his friend set the plates on the table.

"Hello, Mrs. Morales. I hope you managed to get some rest." Rio blinked at the table arrangement before on Panthera's shy smile.

"Hello, Panthera and I did, thank you. Wh... What is all this?" Panthera's smile brightens a little.

"After you told me that your family hasn't had a real home-cooked meal since Mr. Morales' passing, I got my Baba to take me to the supermarket and brought some food prep from home to make you all something." A slow smile spread on Rio's lips as she hugged the girl.

"Oh, mija, thank you. You've been a literal angel throughout this time, and I can't be more grateful that Miles has someone like you in his corner. Muchas gracias querida." PAnthera hugged the woman back, heart full.

"Of course, Mrs. Morales. You've all been through a lot. This is the least that I can do," Panthera said. Rio pulled back, hands firmly on Panthera's shoulders as she looked the girl squarely in her eyes.

"Please, mija. Call me Rio. I meant what I said today when I said that we consider you to be family. You are family, Panthera." The girl teared up a bit but smiled, nodding her understanding.

"Okay, Rio. Now come, best to eat while it's still warm." Panthera urged the family to find a seat at the table, taking a seat by a heart-eyed Miles.

Rio and Aaron sent each other a silent look.

'She's good for him.'

'Yeah, she is.'

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

The Morales/Davis family finished dinner with full bellies and content smiles. They complimented the girl on her culinary skills, who accepted the praise with a blush. Panthera offered to take care of the dishes, which was vehemently rejected by Miles.

"You've done so much today, muñeca. Lemme do this for you." Then proceeds to kiss her cheek in front of his mother and uncle. You could cook on an egg of Panthera's face with how hot her cheeks were burning. Rio and Aaron only smiled secretly, chuckling at the two teens.

As soon as Miles was done, they all sat and chatted, occasionally laughing and joking with each other. Panthera soon looked down at her phone, staring in shock at the time.

"Bast! I didn't realize how late it was getting! I need to go home," Panthera exclaimed, standing up and patting her pockets to ensure she had everything. Miles felt his heart drop to his stomach.

Panthera squeaked when she suddenly felt a pair of arms wrap around her, pulling her into a solid chest. Miles buried his face in the crock of her neck, not caring if his mamá y tío could see him and Panthera like this.

"Miles-"

"Stay." Panthera shivered as the single word was whispered right next to her ear.

"I probably really should try-" Rio interjected.

"No, please, Panthera. Stay the night. Walking the streets alone is too dangerous, especially since crime has been increasing nearly every day." Panthera looked into the pleading eyes of Rio before turning to Aaron.

"Umalume, can't you walk me home? You know I don't live that far from you," Panthera tried. Aaron sighed.

"Sorry, lil cub, but Rio is right. I've been caught in a couple of fights just trying to get home. I don't want to risk you being caught up in that." Panthera pursed her lips in thought. It wasn't until Miles turned her around and cupped her face in his hands.

"Please, gatita. I don't want to lose another person. I can't lose another person in my life. Especially not you. You mean too much to me. Please, stay... I need you..." Damn it, if the vulnerable look in those tawny brown eyes didn't seal it for her, his words did.

"...okay, I'll stay. I'll take the guest bedroom..." Panthera's question trailed off when she noticed the semi-sheepish look on Aaron's face.

"Sorry, Panthera, but I've kinda been using it." The girl smiled at the man, silently reassuring him. 

"No worries then, I could take the couch-"

"No, the heck you not!"

"Absolutely not, mija!"

The girl looked at mother and son with an exasperated expression.

"Then what do you suggest," she huffed. Miles was quick to respond.

"You could sleep in my room. It's not like you haven't done so before." Panthera glanced at Rio, silently asking if that was okay. Rio smiled and nodded.

"Just keep the door open, you two~!"

"RIO!" "MAMÁ, PLEASE!"

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

After a quick and embarrassing escape, a change of clothes, and a quick night routine, Panthera and Miles lay side by side in the dark room. Miles, in his wife beater and gym shorts, couldn't help but admire Panthera in his clothes.

He gave her one of his old t-shirts that swallowed her frame, reaching her thighs. She rejected the shorts he tried giving her, claiming too much clothing makes it harder for her to sleep at night. He didn't put up much of a fight, finding the view she provided quite enticing. He wanted nothing more but to reach out and caress those brown thighs...

"You can come closer, you know," he quietly stated, drawing random shapes on her arm. Panthera blushed.

"You sure? Wouldn't that seem..." The boy raised a brow, waiting for the girl to finish her sentence.

"Intimate?" The boy blinked before giving a little shrug.

"I mean... it would. But I wouldn't mind that... do you?" Panthera chewed on her bottom lip, mulling over her answer.

"I... I don't mind either..." Miles smiled, tugging on the girl's waist to pull her closer. The boy even went as far as to rest one of her legs on his hip.

"Mmm, comfy," Miles asked, finding Panthera's eyes in the dark. The girl nodded, unable to get her voice to work without it coming out as a high pitch squeak. Miles chuckled, kissing her forehead.

"Heh, so freaking cute. Goodnight, gatita. Sweet dreams."

"Goodnight, Mi. Sweet dreams..."

The pair managed to doze off into a comfortable slumber.

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

Miles stared at the beauty sitting next to him. The pair was out on top of one of the building's rooftops. The moon was out tonight, ethereal light bathing the girl in a breathtaking glow. He could see the stars twinkling in her eyes, creating a new galaxy in those dark orbs. Panthera glanced at him, noting the dazed look in Miles's eyes.

"What are you looking at, Mi," she teased good-naturely, ignoring the warmth feeling flooding her cheeks.

"You, princesa," Miles answered easily, scooting closer to the girl. He took note of the confused blink he received as he cupped her cheek.

"God, you're so beautiful, Panthera. How are you even real," Miles whispered, looking into her galaxy-decorated eyes. The girl's eyes began to cross as Miles approached her face.

"Mi...?" A shiver escaped the boy. He always loved the way that nickname sounded coming from her.

"I love you, Panthera. Te amo tanto, mi vida," Miles sighed, leaning in for a long-awaited kiss...

Only to be shoved away at the last second.

Miles' furrowed expression turned into one of fear. The disgusted look on Panthera's face, the cold look in her eyes.

"What the hell, Miles?! I don't love you like that." His heart shuddered to a stop.

"Wh-what?" The girl stood, backing away from him.

"Why would I ever love someone as needy and broken as you? Be so for real, Morales. I don't want your deranged love. Keep that shit to your fucking self." Panthera turned on her heel and ran inside the building.

"Panthera, wait! I'm sorry, please!" The boy chased after her, heart aching as she remained out of reach. The staircase seemed to go on forever as he tried racing down them.

"Leave me alone, Miles!" 

"No, gatita, please! Don't leave me, don't leave me!" Tears ran down the boy's cheeks in ragged streaks, losing sight of her. The boy took a harsh tumble as he accidentally stepped on his untied shoelaces. After an eternity of rolling, the boy reached the bottom of the staircase. He could see the exit just meters away—the door was left wide open, blowing in the seductive scent of his beloved. Miles stared into nothingness. The aches and pains going off in different parts of his body were nothing compared to the gaping hole in his chest.

He curled into himself and sobbed.

"Panthera, mi amor, mi vida... Vuelve, por favor. Te amo. Lo lamento, Lo lamento..." He begged and cried. Silently pleading for the girl to hear his cries and come through that door. To hold him and say she was sorry. That she didn't mean any of her cruel words and will never leave him...

That she will always love him.

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

"...les... Mil... Mi, wake up! You're having a nightmare. Wake up, please..." Miles let out a tired moan, his swollen eyes struggling to open. His eyes struggled to focus, but slowly, he could see and worried and frantic Panthera straddling him. 

"P... Panthera," he croaked, his voice thick with sleep and unshed tears. He watched as her face morphed into one of relief.

"Oh, thank Bast, you scared me, Mi! I just slipped out to use the bathroom, and when I came back, you were shaking and crying in your sleep. You were speaking in Spanish, but you sounded so hurt, Mi," Panthera whispered frantically. She didn't want to wake Aaron or Rio with their conversation. Miles shuddered at the lingering memory of his dream, wrapping his arms around the girl, hugging her tight.

"I'm sorry I scared you, Panthera," he weakly apologized, snuggling closer to the girl's warmth. Panthera returned the embrace, running her fingers over the week-old stitch pattern of the boy's braids.

"Shhh, it's okay, Mi. I'm here, I promise," she whispered. He looked into her dark brown eyes, seeing their familiar warmth.

"Really," he asked in a small voice. As much as Miles didn't want to admit it, that dream scared him just as much as he had seen his dad's broken body on the news. The strong potential of losing someone close to his heart scared him. 

He loves the girl. He would move heaven and Earth to keep her in his life. 

He needed to know that she'll stay.

"Of course, I promise. I love you, Mi." Miles let out a shaky breath when he felt those full lips press against his clammy forehead. God, he wanna bask in this moment forever...

"I love you too, Panthera..." Miles couldn't help himself. He kissed her clothed chest, right where her heart was. Panthera allowed herself to be maneuvered to Miles' comfort. She laid on her back with his head on her chest; his ear pressed against it to hear her heartbeat. Miles' long body was nicely accommodated by the softness of Panthera's thighs over his hips. The featherlight touch over his hair and eyes coaxed the boy into a peaceful slumber.

Panthera watched as the boy slipped back into unconsciousness, her mind wired.

She wasn't expecting such a drastic reaction when she returned from using the bathroom. Miles was sleeping so peacefully when she left...

She also didn't tell Miles she heard her saying her name. She had an okay understanding of his mother tongue and could help but blush at the parts she did understand.

'Panthera, my love... please... I love you...'

She wasn't entirely sure what Miles was begging for, but whatever the dream version of her did left him with an empty, scared, and heartbroken look in his tired eyes.

Something about that look unsettled her. She never wanted to be the cause of that look; she loved Miles. She wanted him to be happy...

The girl let out a tired sigh.

'Sleepy, sleepy...'

She looked down at the boy sleeping on her chest and bit her lip.

As carefully as she could, she tilted the boy's head up. She watched fondly as his face unconsciously scrunched up and let out a whine at being moved. Only to be silenced when she gently pecked his lips. She had to suppress an amused giggle when a dopey smile crossed his face, and he snuggled up to her.

"Goodnight, Mi..."

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

The rest of the year was very busy for Miles. When Panthera left that morning to go back home, and his mom went to take a shift at the hospital, he spoke to his Uncle Aaron about his "business dealings."

"Miles, I don't think it'll be a good idea-"

"Tío, please. You know I wouldn't ask if it wasn't important to me. I want to be able to protect the people I love. What if papá wasn't enough for them? What if they manage to get to mamá or even Panthera? I can't lose anyone, Uncle Aaron, I can't. I won't let those bastards get away with what they've done to my family."

"...alright, kid. Lemme take care of a few things first, and we can start...."

It took a couple of months of training and remodeling a suit, but soon Brooklyn had a new Prowler. 

The newcomer was just as good as his predecessor, if not better. And he was always in high demand.

Miles was proud of the name he had created for himself in the crime underworld. The business was doing well, so he could support his mother at home and at her job. With the extra bonuses he and his uncle received, he would save most of it, spend a little on himself, and hopefully soon, on his precious gatita.

With it being their junior year and his new mantle as Prowler, Miles had difficulty spending time with her outside of school. He missed the days when they would spend their days together, whether they drew in their respective sketchbooks or curled up on his couch watching "Spirit: The Stallion of the Cimarron" for the 50th time (it was Panthera's favorite movie, he wasn't going to deny his precious kitten anything). 

The last time they spent real time together (like for more than an hour) was toward the end of summer. School was supposed to start in less than two weeks, and Miles was still training but was about to take up his first assignment as the Prowler in just a few days. Miles had stopped by Panthera's apartment to ask her to come tagging with him. What resulted from that was a mural of his father. He remembers staring up at the smiling face of his papá. At that point, it's been over a month and a half since Jeff died. He wanted a physical reminder of what he was doing this for...

The comforting feeling of having Panthera's arms around his waist warmed his chest. Her words rang sweetly in his ears.

"Whatever you do, I know your dad would be proud of you, Miles. You will always be his pride and joy..." Miles allowed his hand to find hers, intertwining against his stomach.

"Thank you, Panthera... it means more than you know..."

In the months since then, the two would spend time in class, studying, or spending a rare Saturday together. Despite their limited time together, Panthera could clearly see the difference in Miles. The coldness in his stare. His aloofness to the majority of their classmates around him. The silent, almost predatory vibe in his stance and walk. 

He morphed from the Summer Child she knew from their freshmen and sophomore year until a Winter Soldier.

Their classmates had noticed this, some choosing to stay out of the boy's way while others flocked to him, finding this change cool and finally worthy of their attention. Guys soon began calling him their homeboy, while girls batted their eyes at him with flirtatious grins on their glossy lips.

Miles remained indifferent to this attention. Only seeking the attention of one person.

Panthera.

He knew his precious kitten never liked having so many eyes on her, and ever since he became "popular," he was hardly alone. There were a few moments when he could snag her away for a few minutes of solitude. Panthera would always find herself in the boy's lap. His arms circled around to keep her close. He would normally find his face buried in her neck or resting on her chest to listen to her heartbeat.

She was his small piece of heaven.

Miles had found his eyes straying to the couples in the halls during passing or in the lunchroom. Often times imagining himself and Panthera in the same setting. His mamá y tío have been waiting for him to finally take the leap of fate and ask her to be his, officially. 

He decided their junior year would be the start of their love story.

Neither of them anticipated how bloody of a start it would be...

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

CLIFFHANGERRRRR! Sorry not sorry lol. P.S. I know the font with Miles' dream is off, I honest to God don't know what Tumblr is on.

Dedicated to @444morales and @l0v3morales

Translations:

~Spanish~

Mija : Darling

Te quiero... te quiero mucho papá : I love you… I love you so much dad

Muchas gracias querida : Thank you so much dear

muñeca : doll

Te amo tanto, mi vida : I love you so much my life

Panthera, mi amor, mi vida... Vuelve, por favor. Te amo. Lo lamento, Lo lamento... : Panthera, my love, my life… Come back, please. I love you. I'm sorry, I'm sorry…

-Xhosa-

Phumla ngoku, joni : Rest now, soldier

Enkosi ngenkonzo yakho... siyakuthanda : Thank you for your service… we love you

inkosazana yam encinci : my little princess

Baba : Father

Ndiyakuthandana : I love you

Nam ndiyakuthanda... : I love you too...

Umalume : Uncle

[nobodygetsza]

𝖢𝗁𝖺𝗋𝖺𝖼𝗍𝖾𝗋𝗌 𝖯𝖺𝗋𝗍 𝖨𝖨

〘 Lҽxιʂ Mαƙιαԋ Aʂ Sԋαɳιყαԋ Rσʂʂ 〙

〘 Mҽʅʋιɳ Hσʅʅαɳԃ Jɾ Aʂ JαႦαɾι Sιɱɱσɳʂ 〙

． ＊ ꙳ ✦ ⊹ＦＥＡＴＵＲＩＮＧ...

〘 Rҽɠιɳα Kιɳɠ Aʂ Tαɳια Cαɱҽɾσɳ 〙

〘 Mσɾɾιʂ Cԋҽʂƚɳυƚ Aʂ Mιƈԋαҽʅ Cαɱҽɾσɳ 〙

〘 Qυҽɳιʂԋα Qιαɳα Aʂ Aʋαɳι Mαɾƚιɳҽȥ 〙

〘 Cԋɾιʂƚιɳα Hҽɳԃɾιƈƙʂ Aʂ Bҽƚԋ Bσʅαɳԃ 〙

〘 Mαҽ Wԋιƚɱαɳ Aʂ Aɳɳιҽ Mαɾƙʂ 〙

〘 Rҽƚƚα Aʂ RυႦყ Hιʅʅ 〙

[ravennaortiz]

Everything on this list is incredible!

Masterlist💗

Started: 10/22/2020

Last Updated: 08/25/2024

Angel Reyes

"Hungry and Hormonal"

"Disastrous Deception"

Part One

Part Two

Part Three

"Out of Control"

“Get Your Act Together”

Odell Beckham Jr.

Gif credit: @objs13

"I Got You"

Chris Evans

Gif credit: @capsgrantrogers

“This Thing Called Life”

“Here We Go”

Rio

"Gang Friend and a Gentleman"

“Are You Listening?”

Daily Struggles Series: "Keep Me Posted"

"Are You Listening?" - Part Two: "The Breakdown"

“Gimme Some”

“Are You Listening?” - Part Three: “Bad Idea”

“Through It All” - Part One

“Are You Listening?” - Interlude - “Drinks On Me, Yeah?”

“Are You Listening?” - Part Four - “My Little Rider”

"Tempting Limits"

"Balancing Acts"

Rio Ask/Headcanons (In Order):

(I don't take requests, but sometimes I give in 😆)

Rio and Wifey on Vacay w/ baby girl.

Rio, Wifey, and All Girls.

Baby Mama, Four Times Over.

Built In Babysitter. Evolution of a Mini Hustla.

Valentine's Day and a Wedding Anniversary.

Rio’s Mini-me.

Let’s Go Little Kitty-Kat

It Be Your Own Blood

"Like Father, Like Son"

Pablo Schreiber

"Mini Mediators"

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II

"Nobody’s Gonna Know"-Part One.

“Nobody’s Gonna Know” - Part Two.

Kevin Atwater

"Until The Cops Come Knocking"

"Loud and Wrong"

Jay Halstead

“Echoes of Redemption”

Simon 'Ghost' Riley

"Late Night Cravings"

“Under the Mask”

“Haunted Hearts”

🚨SNIPPETS🚨

"Feeling Flustered" - EZ Reyes SNIPPET

"Disastrous Deception: Part Five" - Angel Reyes SNIPPET

"Do Not Disturb" - Angel Reyes SNIPPET

"Are You Listening" - Rio SNIPPET

"Loud and Wrong" - Kevin Atwater SNIPPET

"When You Come Around" - Chapter: "Restroom Occupied" - Dave East - Kofi Siriboe SNIPPET

“Mini Mediators” - Pablo Schreiber SNIPPET

“Don’t Hurt Yourself” - Chapter: “Shot For Me” - Odell Beckham Jr. SNIPPET

"The Way You Move" - "Say What Now?" (song series) - Yahya Abdul-Mateen II SNIPPET

“Clear A Bitch” - Chris Evans SNIPPET

“Get Your Act Together” - “Say What Now?” (Song series) - Angel Reyes SNIPPET

"Late Night Flights" - Chris Evans SNIPPET

Divider Credit: @firefly-graphics 💕.

[marleyybluu]

Would you be okay writing some bestfriends brother!rio smut? :)

Don Julio

Best friends brother!Rio x f!black!OC (Honey)

Word count: 1.1k

Content warning: literally nothing, just swearing and hangovers lol, Honey is 21 and Rio is 26 (just testing a little age gap😗)

A/N: I just want to apologize to you anon because this request has been sitting in my inbox, collecting dust because I had no idea how to even come up with anything but here we are bitch.

decided to do OC because... I'm loving the OC streak that I'm on right now.

also, OC is written as a black woman in mind, I don't describe her in detail just yet.

There will be a part 2 yall don't worry

(Not my gif)

And that damn Don Julio made me a fool for you…

•• ••

Sunday mornings were for soaking in the regrets of Saturday night events, they were for dealing with pounding hangovers and lounging on the couch to recover. At least that's how most of her Sundays went and this one was no different. Light snores left her lips while the heat of the morning sun beamed on her bare back warming up her skin. She groaned as the heat became too much, suddenly she wished she hadn't been so drunk last night, she would've been able to close the curtains. She pulled the covers over her body and smiled, that felt better. She readjusted herself, getting in a more comfortable position, she sighed her eyes opening just for a millisecond but, in that quick time, she noticed something off.

Her room was blue... well no it wasn't, her room was actually Sage green. There were posters on her wall of old movies and her favourite artists, this wall didn't have any. Her eyes blew wide open when she realized the lack of softness in her pillow, well it wasn't a pillow at all it was someone's chest—slowlyrisingand falling with sleep. She sighed, of course, she had to start her Sunday in a stranger's bed. Honey sat up slowly, sleep very apparent in her bones as she stretched and her joints cracked, her head felt heavy and her eyes narrowed as she squinted away the bright light of the sun's beams. She groaned tossing the covers off of her legs, her lower half scantily clad, she laughed to herself and shook her head.

Her feet met the cold floor, she grabbed a shirt, she could only assume it was his, oh well-- he wouldn't mind would he?

Honey stumbled through the halls looking for a bathroom, her bladder full of last night's drinks and after pushing every door open she was finally successful in finding a bathroom. She closed the door for privacy while she handled her business as if this man hadn't seen every inch of her business the night before. Once she was done she wiped and flushed, washed her hands and splashed a bit of cold water on her face waking herself up and hoping to stay awake long enough to get home safely. She opened the door and flicked off the light making her way back to the room.

As she walked down the hall she noticed a wall of photos in her peripheral, she was curious and decided to take a quick look at the photos. She smiled at a family picture, two adults and two young children-- a boy with a bowl cut and a little girl with pigtails. Her head tilted. "Kinda looks like Cherry when she was a kid." Honey quietly said to herself. Her eyes scanned the wall, another picture of the children catching her attention, the boy doing bunny ears behind his sister while she cried. It looked... familiar. As if she'd seen it before. And, again, the little girl looked like Cherry. Cherry was Honey's best friend since kindergarten, you couldn't see one without the other, they were attached at the hip. Cherry did have an older brother, Christopher but everyone called him Rio, and if Honey remembered correctly... he did have a... bowl cut when they were younger.

Her heart dropped at the realization, she gasped softly. "No... no, no, no."

She quickly walked back to the room, she stood behind the wall taking in a deep breath before she leered past it to poke her head into the door frame. The not-so-mysterious man was now lying on his side, facing her, eyes still closed. Honey covered her mouth in utter shock, there was no way this was happening. Her eyes fell to the floor, their clothes mixed and scattered all over the boards along with an empty bottle of Don Julio 1942. She had to get the fuck out before he woke up, she quietly thanked God that Cherry was always at her man's house otherwise this would've been a very awkward morning. She tiptoed back inside the room, bending down to scoop up her pants, her top, her bra and her panties... sigh... where were her panties?

Honey shuffled around looking on top of his dresser, inside the drawers and under the bed. She couldn't find them, she'd have to leave them. She pulled on her pants and swapped his shirt for her own, she was putting her faux locs in a quick bun when suddenly her phone rang at a violently loud volume, it even vibrated against the wood of his nightstand.

"Shit! Shut up!" She whined through gritted teeth, in an attempt to quickly grab the phone she tripped over the empty bottle of tequila, just her luck. The loud thud caused a stirring in the bed, Rio groaned and yawned carefully sitting up. He shielded his eyes from the sunlight and shook his head, he had a pounding headache. "What the fuuuck." He grunted at the phone. Eventually, it stopped, and he blindly picked it up to see who it was. A missed call from his little sister, Cherry, but the longer he stared at the screen he noticed a picture of her and her best friend. His eyes popped, his lips parted slightly.

"Honey..." He called out unsurely and with the slight hope that she wasn't in the house.

"...Yeah?" She answered from the floor. "Oh... shit."

"Yup."

Honey got off the floor, stood on her feet and smiled sheepishly. "Hi..."

"Hi..." He returned. Rio scanned the room, his eyes widening at the empty bottle of Tequila, his hands covering his eyes. But even though this was not an ideal situation, his seeming frustration or maybe regret made her feel a way.

She'd always had a crush on Rio, but being her best friend's older brother, it was an unspoken rule that he was off limits. So, Honey just admired him from afar. God, he was... something. He was handsome. So fine. And the older he got, the better. He'd gotten taller, facial hair had grown in but those pretty brown eyes remained the same along with that charming smirk he always had. Then came the haircut and the tattoos and... oof! It levelled him up.

Rio cleared his throat, Honey blinked a few times realizing she'd been caught in her trance. "Sorry... I- sorry." Though she didn't know what she was apologizing for. She grabbed her phone and the rest of her stuff and dashed downstairs. Rio shook his head, "Wait." He mumbled still dazed with sleep and a wicked hangover.

"Honey-"

The front door slammed. Honey fumbled with her car keys, and as bad as driving intoxicated is— she quietly hoped she didn't drive here completely sober. Intentionally pulling up to fuck Cherry's brother? She would never let herself live it down. Fuck.

Her car started, the heavy engine rumbling and vibrating the walls of the Martínez house. Her tires screeched getting herself the fuck out of there.

Once she got home she slumped onto the couch, she checked her phone. Seven missed calls from Cherry, and a slew of text messages asking if she was okay, if she needed someone to talk to. Honey squinted trying to remember what happened, what would have her friend in a panic state. What did she do?

A hesitant finger hovered over her name in the call log, Honey tapped it and the phone rang only once before Cherry picked up. "Honey!? Bitch! Where were you? Are you okay?"

"I'm- Cher, I'm fine. I'm sorry if I scared you. But what... did I say?"

Cherry said, "You called me, you were crying about Julien," Her ex. "And then you left me a voice note like an hour later slurring your words, and then you were talking to someone else but— were you with him last night?"

She threw her head back on the cushion of the couch. "No, I wasn't with him I was with... someone else. Fuck. Look, I need some coffee in my system, my head is killing me. I'll call you tonight, and again I'm sorry for scaring you."

Also sorry for sleeping with your brother.

"It's fine, I'm just glad you're safe and... home?"

"Yes, home, I am home." She said nervously. "Okay, well, I'll talk to you later then. Love you."

"Love you too... bye."

The call ended, she tossed her phone on the couch. She had to at least try and remember what happened last night.

If you liked this fic free to like this fic, likes, reblogs and comments are appreciated.

peace and love, see you in the next one 🤙🏾

🏷: @darqchilddaydreamz @rio-reid-whoreee @skyesthebomb @bigenergy777 @realhotgurlshit @lovedlover

[blvefilm]

If I can't Reach You

Word Count:2406

Warnings:None? Yearning? Slow-burn ish?

Pairings:Agatha x Rio x Fem!OC

Summary:Rio and Umbra are summoned to The Road.

Notes: This is part 2! I didn't mean to be so dramatic with the word count...wasn't even sure if I would do a second part initially. I tried to keep the dialogue pretty accurate. I hope you enjoy!

Part One Here

2026

The ground beneath my feet parts like a gaping maw and I am pulled into the dark- a suffocating mockery of my own. My form distorts, scatters, and reforms against the weight of the Earth as I am summoned elsewhere- the call a violent tug in my gut. 

Light breaches my coffin of dirt and tendrils of my being claw toward the opening. I emerge with distorted limbs, shifting to piece themselves back together, and a low growl of annoyance. 

Her emotions, more separate after all this time but still sewn into my being, filter through me like water. Amusement. Annoyance. Sadness. Longing. 

The dark voice that formed me bites into a thick vein in my mind. 

You are here to guide. To protect. To collect.

I turn to her, my shadows already seeking her out. A dark mirror to her fire. We twine together as if we are still one and she sends reassurance through our bond along with a pleading to play along. 

It's then that I notice she has taken her green witch form, and that we have an audience. 

The witch that has haunted our hearts for centuries stands before me, mouth agape. I freeze at her presence, tendrils twisting around me in agitation. I can’t identify the fluttering emotion that stirs within me when her gaze locks onto me for the first time- seeing me for what I am after years of shifting around Rio’s neck like a viper.

Rio squeezes my waist before stepping in front of me, and toward the odd group currently cringing away from us in horror. 

“Heard you were having a party.” She states with a grin as she brushes dirt from her torso.

“How did you-” Agatha sputters, hair in messy waves around her shoulders. 

“I was in the neighborhood.” she mockingly gasps and bows before her, brandishing a flower. “Surprise, My Lady.”

I am not shocked when the witch screams and lunges toward Rio in a rage, but the coven holding her back and shouting that they need her ignites my curiosity. 

I will myself completely corporeal and step flush with Rio’s back protectively. Agatha’s gaze flickers between the two of us with conflicting emotions before she spins with a grunt and walks in the other direction. The youngest of the coven, a teen boy whose love for black looked like it rivaled my own, follows after her.

I shove down the rising disappointment at her easy dismissal. 

Rio faces the remaining three witches before us. “What's up? I’m Rio.”

“Umbra.” My voice echoes hauntingly like a multitude of speakers were hidden amongst the limbs swaying above us. They flinch backward and glance around warily. 

“Hello.”

“Sup.”

“Hey.”

My other half cracks her neck ominously. 

“So you’re a green witch?” Asks the short woman with bright orange streaks through her inky hair. The one that bears the dark mark of a curse on her soul. 

“Um…Less a green witch. More like The Green Witch.” Rio’s voice drops so low I’m sure it rattled the bones of the trio- if their faces are anything to go by. I rest my chin against her shoulder and eye them with thinly veiled amusement. 

“And you are..?” The elegant woman in pink silk questions me warily. 

“She is my familiar.” Rio mutters, “We’re supposed to walk this thing right?”

I raise a brow, and pinch her side petulantly at being labeled a pet. 

“Yeah”

“Right that way.”

“Yes we are.”

They mumble over each other, physically leaning away from us. I must admit, I do enjoy being seen, even if they stink of fear. 

“Wow. Witches Road, huh?” States Rio as she skips ahead with crisp leaves crunching beneath her feet. 

She must sense my apprehension at the reference, mentally tugging me along. The trio still stare unblinkingly and I simply shrug and trail behind her gracefully. 

The false moon drapes strings of light between the branches of the forest around us, the shadows they cast take the shape of boney hands reaching out eerily. I ignore Rio’s sardonic remarks as she too eyes the foliage around her, choosing instead to listen in on the conversation occurring behind me. 

“So, what do we think? Can we trust her?”

“We know nothing about her.”

“We know Agatha hates her. I’d say that goes in the ‘pro’ column.” 

I smile fondly when she begins to swing her knife in the air, movements sporadic and violent. Rio has always relished in the fear her mere presence seemed to strike in those around her, often leaning into it as she was now. 

“Honestly I don’t know how to feel. Do I hate her? Or do I want her number?” 

“Same.”

“Right?”

I chuckle softly in agreement, sliding a tendril of darkness along her jaw teasingly as her lips quirk into a smirk. She whips to face them swiftly, startling them for her own amusement. 

Honestly, they were close enough that even a human could hear them. I’m not sure what they are thinking.  

“Rio.” I croon sweetly in an attempt to give the poor coven’s heart rates a break. 

“What scary bitches.” The Sicilian woman with a messy top knot mumbles after we continue walking forward. 

“Why are we playing with our food this time?” I question softly once we are a few paces ahead, hand sliding down her arm to curl my fingers with hers. 

She’s quiet for a moment, and I tune into our bond to ride the crashing wave of thoughts and emotions along with her. I hum thoughtfully squeezing her hand, and she returns the gesture. 

She doesn’t have to say it. She is doing this for our little witch. 

The same little witch we are currently closing in on, teen right on her tail. I note an odd waver to his form. As if a piece of him is splitting from the rest and his edges are blurred. Sharing a look with Rio, I know she sees the same thing. 

We cluster together as Agatha draws to a halt, staring ahead at a dimly lit house with an angled roof that sits idly in a clearing- as if the trees themselves wanted to keep their distance. 

“Pass.” States the cursed witch flatly, spinning to walk in the opposite direction. 

“Uh oh. Mutiny already?” 

Agatha sighs, ignoring Rio and pushing past her in a swirl of navy fabric to call after the disgruntled witch. 

The rest of us share an awkward glance before retracing our footsteps along the path, drawing close to Agatha as she questions the woman’s plan with obvious frustration. 

“Go back, Go around. Go anywhere but in that house.” She grouses only to gasp and stop in her tracks when The Road leads her right back to it. 

“Uh…I agree, but The Road clearly does not.” Utters Agatha, spreading her hands before her with a shrug. “So, I guess we go.”

The coven walks forward cautiously, sending pitying looks back to the woman who remains hunched with uncertainty. I slide past her as well and don’t glance back- keeping my eyes on the only two figures they ever sought out.  

Rio continues to twirl the flower between her fingers as they chatter about the moon on the wooden front porch, a forlorn expression marring her features that is quickly wiped away when any eyes drift toward her. 

I edge closer and nudge her with my shoulder tenderly, waiting until her warm brown stare meets mine to supply a soft smile. Her lips twitch, not a full grin, and she tugs a strand of my hair playfully- stepping away when Agatha finally swings the door open. 

The room is drenched in shades of fire. Reds, oranges, and yellows culminate to mimic a flame. Various instruments crowd the center of the room, and it has a distinct 70s style with funky carpets and a patterned room divider. 

I’m reassured of my assumptions when I glance down to see we have all been draped in costumes like dolls. Leather pants embossed with jeweled skulls cling to my legs while my torso is strapped into a glittery top that digs into my shoulders gratingly. 

“Don’t drink anything. Don’t eat anything. Don’t touch anything.” Warns who I now know is Alice, having learned their names from their squabbling on the porch.

Rio smirks her way with wide eyes, “Feels like there's a story there.”

“Oh. Check me out!” Calls Agatha as she purses her lips sensually at her reflection. 

I am happy to oblige, ogling the deep V of her top heatedly. Her eyes clash with mine briefly, twitching back to herself with a grimace as if she didn’t mean to allow herself that little glimpse. 

“I mean, seriously, we are an album cover waiting to happen.” Quips Teen, his hair now shaggy and shoulders draped in a light blue fur coat.

My stare is drawn to Rio, hair pulled up to reveal her slender throat and V neck plunging in a similar fashion to Agatha’s, much to my delight. 

“What’s going to happen next?” She questions with glee as she leans forward suggestively.

Teen offers up the idea of looking for clues and the group dissipates in different directions, leaving us three and the gaping chasm between us. I remain silent, ever the observer at Lady Death’s side as she molds herself to Agatha’s back and regards her languidly in the mirror.

“Boo.” She whispers, her lips brush against the witch’s ear and I shift closer at the sight, only pausing when Agatha slowly turns to face us. 

“No.” She denies flatly, whether for her own reassurance or because she actually meant it- I couldn’t tell. 

My brows cinch at the sting of Rio’s emotion through the bond- the rope between us growing barbs. She steps past us, close enough that her arm brushes mine and the cloying scent of spiced clove wraps around me. Such a miniscule thing, but it immediately imbeds itself in my mind as the first time we’ve touched. 

Rio and I don’t have to discuss our intentions, both following her resolutely as she disappears through a doorway. 

“Knock, Knock.” Rio sings. 

We enter the recording booth without waiting for a response, I rest against a dark portion of the wall as Rio steps right up to her. “How’s the quest for power going?” 

“It’s going.”

“Who are these people?” She asks incredulously, staring through the tinted glass at the coven that’s currently shuffling through the other room in search of clues. 

“Who is she?” Agatha diverts attention to my wispy figure, always one to revert to mockery and sarcasm. A small part of me jumps at the attention.

“I am her.”

“And she is me.” Rio finishes with a smirk. 

Her blue eyes flicker between us as she runs her tongue along her teeth. “Mhm.” 

Her tone conveys her confusion, and I suspect, a hint of jealousy. I glide closer, voice dropping to a low tone. “I was merely a piece of her soul before I was torn away and spit out. I am an act of balance. Where she hesitates, I do not.” 

“So..” She draws the word out to urge us forward. 

“I am her.” 

“And she is me.” We repeat. 

“Clarifying.” She mutters, tossing her hair over her shoulder. 

“I am Umbra, her other half. Her shadow.” I sigh, a confusing mix of emotions churn within me at the strangeness of it all. I have centuries of memories that are not my own, fuzzy, but they are what made me, me. The soft moments we, they, shared along with the heartbreak. The days Rio and I watched her from a distance… To her, though, I am merely a stranger. 

One that is strikingly close to her ex-lover.

“I’m feeling impatient,” Rio interrupts our heated eye contact with an agitated nod- whipping out her dagger. “I’m feeling like I wanna cause some damage.”

Agatha slumps in her chair, “You’re too early.”

“It wasn’t up to me. Magic, as it often does,” she leans back against the various controls on the panel that borders the glass window, “Chose the path of least resistance. Ferried the closest, most appropriate candidate down. Or up.” 

Agatha chews on her cheek thoughtfully, arms crossed, and narrowed eyes directed at Teen through the glass. 

“Why did you bring that boy?” I question, intrigued by his odd presence amongst the group. 

“Oh…Many hands.” She mutters cryptically. 

I note the miniscule flash of panic in her gaze when Rio turns her calculating stare to him. Her usual mask falls back into place a second later as she stands and sways toward us. 

“Maybe The Road is like Switzerland. What if we just call a truce?”

I sidle closer to Rio as she mulls over her words. I can feel her doubt, but I can also feel the tiniest sliver of hope. Agatha’s eyes track how we lean against each other with familiarity, before twitching her gaze back to Rio's face. 

“Just one more big adventure,” She continues, “You and me.”

I clear my throat.

“And you.” She adds with a wave. 

Rio rolls her head on her shoulders, I suspect to break eye contact. It’s always been hard for her to deny Agatha when she gazes at her like that- especially with the guilt that incessantly claws at her heart for how they ended.

“I just need these witches to get me to the end. So you tell me, what happens next?” Agatha’s tone drops to a sultry whisper at the end of her sentence. 

“I get the pleasure of watching you do what you do best, kill all the witches around you. One by one.” Rio murmurs. 

“Then what?” Agatha urges her to continue, and from the corner of my eye I note the forms of the ragtag coven crowding the booth. A look of trepidation carves their features. 

“You get your power, and I get my bodies.” 

“Hey! That’s my coven you’re talking about. I’m not that kind of witch anymore!” She gasps theatrically.

It’s then that we both note her fingers on the intercom button, projecting the conversation to the now agitated group. Their muffled yells echo through the glass as Rio drops her head with a derisive chuckle. 

My brows fall low in exasperation. “You-” A shrill screech cuts through all other noise, causing all but Rio and I to hunch in pain and smack their hands over their ears. 

[cherryisagamer]

Ikepri Guys Names Meaning (part 1)

While I was doing my name research for OCs, I decided to search for the meanings of our princes' names and I got really surprised at the level of Galaxy Brain the actual Ikepri staff had with them. So here's my results:

(8 Rhodolite Princes + Sariel & Rio) - (Foreign Princes [coming soon])

Name: Leon Dompteur

Meaning: “Leon” means “lion”. “Dompteur” means “lion tamer”.

Name: Chevalier Michel

Meaning: “Chevalier” means “knight”. “Michel” means “who is like God?/Nobody is like God”.

Name: Yves Kloss

Meaning: “Yves” means “yew” (yew trees can mean “death and resurrection”). “Kloss” means “lump, tangle, snarl, block, wooden wedge” (as in for a crude person). 

Name: Clavis Lelouch

Meaning: “Clavis” means “key” (in the archaic sense of hook). “Lelouch” means “lamb” or “cross-eyed” (as in a shady person). 

Name: Licht Klein

Meaning: “Licht” means “light”. “Klein” means “small, of little importance”.

Name: Nokto Klein

Meaning: “Nokto” means “related to night”. “Klein” means “small, of little importance”.

Name: Jin Grandet

Meaning: “Jin” means “bright, beautiful gold”. “Grandet” means “big”.

Name: Luke Randolph

Meaning: “Luke” means “light-giving”. “Randolph” means “wolf shield”.

Name: Sariel Noir

Meaning: “Sariel” means “beloved of God”. “Noir” means “black”.

Name: Rio Ortiz 

Meaning: “Valerio” means “strong, healthy”. “Ortiz” means “brave, strong”.

****

To be honest, I found them on google and some name sites, so take it with a little bitty grain of salt. But overall I feel like everything checks out! I seriously can't wait to search for the others!

And if you have any additional info or even correction, pls drop it by! or even just to share your impressions!

[akkivee]

hello vee.

@/twogallonhats on twitter made this iceberg, and now i am subjecting you to this. Explain to the best of your knowledge, good luck.

hhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh okay sure

idk why rhyme anima is listed tbh it’s just a zany anime version of hypmic but that very well may be the reason lol like it gave us a man by the name of tom whisper weathercock lol

there’s always a prolific push for your fav to win the drb lol. iirc during the championship round in the 1st drb there was a fan?? fans??? who gave money to some guy with a following to post a video of him asking everyone to vote for mtc lol. jp fans for the second got together and made eng/kor/ch instructions on how to vote in the vr battles it’s a time can’t wait for that to kick off next year 😬

arb is technically not canon and therefore ooc lol

idk what hypmic tictok sounds mean. i can tell you of a few times hypmic was trending on tiktok tho lol

idk if they were even a soundcloud rapper, but some soundcloud rapper fell in love with hypmic and decided to make ichiro his oc/persona and put himself on a team with jyushi and samatoki and they were california division lol

back in 2018???? hypmic posted a christmas video except it was just champagne gold and base hifumi.png in a santa hat slid across the screen truly graphic design is hypmic’s passion lol

i mean there was a brief time there were rp accounts on twt so ig that’s what it

kimura loves black people so much and wants to be black so bad he felt the need to bl@ckface for one of his album drops. fandom asked he take down the posts, he didn’t, fans called him out on it, he blocked them

around the time when there was rumblings that gbr was exiting uhhhhh the eu i think, a dice cosplayer had a video of themselves popping mentos in a coke bottle go viral. someone in british politics used it as a metaphor for whatever stance they had on brexit lol

lol i’m lumping hypstage and hypnama together since i don’t think there’s a real reason they’re listed other than occasionally being points of discussion

hifumi was the original tbh creature

asmr tubers vibe with hypmic characters being their yandere bfs

idk if it’s more than memeing on hitoya but that hitoya card in the pic was clowned on so hard LOL

i couldn’t tell you a specific instance of it but hypmic jank includes frequent misspellings lol

lol i also don’t know if there’s actual controversy behind oridivis besides them getting thanos snapped

*rio voice* curry friday and the mtc seiyuu used to celebrate it lol

there was a collab with some instant curry company (probably called curry meshi lol) and they had the leaders rap a song for it. the songs’ are fun and what’s even funnier is that the song has the leaders sharing this curry and kuukou technically didn’t eat the curry bc it was all gone by the time the cup reached him (and jakurai ate most of it LOL)

i have no fcking clue what weenor busujima is lol

the fact hyprice is a thing is a damn good reason to be here lol. ogs know a hypmic series producer made the joke in 2018 during a hypnama that spawned the concept years later lmao

there was a typo on kuukou’s introductory bio that said he was 68cm LOL

akuma no hana is indeed a song about sex idk what else to tell ya lol

throwback to the hypmic bathtubs they had a live for crazy ass hypmic merch moments lol

the hangout streams are located in this building called mixalive. instead tagging that building’s twt for one of their events, hypnosis flava iirc, they mistakenly tagged a porn twt lol

there was an art trend a few years ago where artists drew their bde faves (and even real people got in on the trend) balancing a shampoo bottle on their big 🍆. ichiro was unfortunately the face of the trend

stage hitoya went viral for that pic used in the iceberg and i had to see randos calling him a two face ass character ONLY HYPMICS ARE ALLOWED TO BULLY HITOYA DAMN YOU

the seiyuu are always getting up to shit backstage lmao tradition is ishiya-san and amasaki-san prowling up on the mtc seiyuu menacingly lmao

if there’s drama or anything of relevance outside of yes stream discords exist, ion know about it lol

a few songs are inspired by/interpolate from other songs. this a normal thing in the music industry (let’s get physical by olivia newton john and physical by dua lipa comes to mind) but hypmic caught a lot of flack for ‘stealing’ from black artists. shinogi dead pools is kendrick lamar’s drank swimming pools bar for bar lol but again, it’s very normal lol the whole kendrick vs drake rap battle that happened this year literally was them using each other’s sound to diss them

some european(?) indie film had an actor wearing ichiro’s jacket

there was a brief trend in jp where they made snow sculptures of their characters as means of attractions and hypmic jumped in on it. it produced the ugliest kuukou known to man he was so unflatteringly scrunckly i loved him LOL

????? bat seiyuu family???? i’m sure what i have in mind is not what they have in mind lol but i mean yeah it’s a running joke that the bat seiyuu consider each other family lol shoutout to sakakihara-san randomly calling hayama-san his ‘onii-chan’ and both hayama-san and sakakihara-san bullying tf outta takeuchi-san by calling him ‘papa’ lol

ariana grande is based about samatoki and there’s proof lol

hypmic vs crsm rap battle was REAL and fumiya wanted to EAT THEM

kamio-san has taken to slapping kuroda-san’s ass and kuroda-san has taken to trying to murder him for it 😌

quite recently lol mtr’s album art was leaked ahead of the hangout stream in a post meant to advertise the fan meeting lol

british dice was a theory i didn’t pay attention to bc i kinda thought just the concept was dumb *wheeze* i think it had something to do with a mistranslation about dice’s father

the rest of that tier i have no fcking clue about lol

in a camera transition during the 9th live, someone’s desktop background was on screen instead of the yknow, livestreaming concert lmao

they got some ddb members to make choreography to move your body til you die!!! i tried i didn’t think it was too bad but the pace of the dance needed to be slowed down eventually lol

if this isn’t poking fun at sensei saying men should automatically know how to rap idk what that is lol

if there’s a trip the mtc seiyuu have taken that stands out from the others, i don’t know about it lol

the hypmic cafe that’s going on rn have these stickers??? standees??? for sale and someone stole all of samatoki’s LOL

[nunubug99]

Dude do I have something for you!!

Honestly I can’t believe I didn’t think of this sooner

Updates will be posted soon!

Everyone be making spider sonas there cool really but i actually wanna see some prowlersona's bro

[the-real-agatha-harkness]

Intro!

Names: Kaden/Sirius/Cassie/Goosey

Age: 15

Prns: It/he/they/she + a bunchhh of neos (will make another posts

MY OCS (THE COVEN)

Aliana Vidal-Harkness

Wisteria Vinehaze

Snow

Parker Kale

Magnolia Calderu

Aliana x Wisteria

I'm not looking for a relationship.

I age regress and I'm a therian

Types: Colorkin, Cat cladotherian, Rabbit cladotherian, Ravenhearted, Dragonhearted, Vampirekin

Fictkins: Agatha Harkness, Julie from welcome home, Ashlynn from school bug graveyard

LIVE EVIL GNOL 🦔

Interests

Games: FNAF, Sims 4, Project sekai, Pokemon, Roblox, House flipper, Kirby, Mario party, Mario kart, Lethal company, Don't starve together, Detective pikachu

Movies/Shows: Deadpool and wolverine, The conjuring, Cabin in the woods, Abigail, Pearl, The ring, Age of ultron, Black widow, The FNAF movie, Aristocats, My neighbor Totoro, Howls moving castle, Spirited away, Wandavision, Ted lasso, Descendants rise of red

YouTubers: Danny Gonzalez, Kurtis conner, Drew gooden, Film Cooper, Funky frog bait, Chad chad, Courtreezy, Deb smikle, Louis McClung

Music artists: Mitski, Chappell roan, Beabadoobee, Isabela LaRosa, Marina, Rio Romeo, Will Wood, Yaelokre, Paris Paloma, Girl in red, Olivia Rodrigo, Billie Eilish, Conan gray, Ethel Cain, TV girl, Sabrina Carpenter

Women who can step on me: Kathryn Hahn/Agatha harkness, Jenna Ortega, Anya Taylor Joy, Ruby Rose Turner, Gigi goode, Adore Delano

Men I would die for: Hugh Jackman and Joshua Colley

Bestiesss: @over-bi-the-wayside, @queer-red-panda, @p1nb4ll-fr34k,

@aesthetic-writer18, @nevaeh-daughterofvalcarol

(IF YOU ARENT HERE ITS JUST BECAUSE THESE ARE THE PEOPLE I INTERACT WITH THE MOST I LOVE ALL MY MOOTS DW)

Pt.2