#royalty calculation
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noctil2 · 8 months ago
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Royalty calculation software for publishers
Navigating music royalties can be a daunting task, especially when dealing with complex royalty structures. Whether you’re a music publisher, or a music rights agency calculating royalty, it’s crucial to have a solid system in place.
Here are some of the must-haves in your system for efficient royalty distribution:
Enhanced automation:
Automating royalty calculations can save you countless hours and reduce errors. Invest in robust royalty management software that can handle multiple revenue streams and varying royalty rates.
Standardized data entry
Consistent data entry is crucial. Ensure all metadata is accurate and standardized to avoid discrepancies in royalty calculations. This will also help in generating precise reports.
Staying updated on industry standards
The music industry is ever-evolving. Keep abreast of the latest royalty standards and practices to ensure your methods remain compliant and competitive.
Understanding contracts 
Each contract can have unique terms. Highlighting specific royalty rates from contracts, payment schedules, and any special conditions. This helps in ensuring compliance and accurate payments.
Utilizing custom reporting
Tailor your reports to meet the needs of different stakeholders. Customizable reporting tools can help you present clear, relevant data to artists, labels, and partners, making the royalty process transparent and trustworthy.
To Know More: https://blogs.noctil.com/royalty-calculation-software-for-publishers/
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dragonairice · 1 year ago
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I already made a royalty AU so I made some art for it :)
@prinxietyweek
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silverxenomorph · 9 months ago
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Made a foray into soaping today. Just Melt & Pour soap - I ain't ready to commit to cold processed soaping.
Mum wanted some small square soaps for her Christmas gifts for the ladies at her craft group and I had a melt and pour soaping kit I'd bought off facebook a few years ago from a Lady who was getting out of the hobby.
They're Lavender scented with dried Lavender flowers mixed in a Cocoa melt and pour base.
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isekyaaa · 1 year ago
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I'm not the well versed with irl romance, but in so many romance manga/manhwa, there's a focus on a male lead that is extremely protective, vengeful for the mc, possessive, etc. He'll fight battles for her, support her, torture people that hurt her, etc. While I do not mind reading such male leads, I can't help but wonder if that's what those authors and fans want in someone. Someone that'll protect, support, and save them. You can also see it in the fics people write on this website. Like is that what romance is supposed to be?
For me, the thought of anyone being protective over me to the point of fighting my battles, standing up to people that hurt me, etc is disgusting. Like applying such a man to real life would disgust me so much. I was always taught to solve problems on my own. It's both my responsibility and my right. I do not want nor need people's protection. I do not want nor need people making my life easier for me. I appreciate support, but any more than that and I'd get so offended if anyone treated me in that way. It'd be the equivalent of saying that I am not adequate nor equipped enough to handle my problems. It's insulting.
But is that the kind of partner the people that write and read these stories want? Are they just reading it for fun and I do or do they deep down desire to be treated like this?
#rambles#i don't get it#rereading 'i'll save this damned family' again and reading the comments (which i should never do) and like...#the amount of people that dislike the ml for being arrogant and challenging the mc#for holding her accountable for her actions#yes i'll read almost anything but he is such a breath of fresh air#he reminds me of ayato ngl#he nearly full on flogged the mc for the charge of (harmless) sedition against royalty (him)#probably would've followed through with it too had she not fainted#he doesn't harm the people that try to harm her but let's her handle her own problems#he's arrogant and calculating#but he doesn't judge mc for her weight (she starts the story at 100kg) and the fact that she is a woman#he will continuously challenge her because he knows she's up to the task#but wow some people think he's the absolute worst#it's like they view mls as requiring to treat the mc like queens in order to be morally supportable#that's another pet peeve of mine like...#men must treat women absolutely perfectly#if they don't they are the scum of the earth#let's just ignore the fact majority of these mls have been traumatized in some way#men can't have flaws for some reason in these manga/manhwa like?????#literally why are you going to manga/manhwa for 'good' female/male representation like y'all are the true clowns here#why would you go to the circus and get pissy over the fact there are clowns?#if you want to read something that has good non-flawed' representation that would offend no one tiktok is literally free#but alas i am the true fool for reading the comments on the first place 😔
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bfcpub · 11 months ago
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Maximize Your Savings with a Book Cost Calculator: A Must-Have Tool for Bookworms
As a book lover, keeping track of your reading expenses can be a daunting task. However, with the help of a book cost calculator, you can easily manage your finances and maximize your savings. In this guide, we'll explore the benefits of using a book cost calculator and how it can help you make informed decisions about your book purchases.
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1. What is a Book Cost Calculator? A book cost calculator is a handy tool that allows you to calculate the total cost of purchasing books based on various factors such as price, quantity, and shipping fees. Additionally, some book cost calculators also include features for calculating royalties and earnings for authors, making it a versatile tool for both readers and writers.
2. Benefits of Using a Book Cost Calculator: Using a book cost calculator offers several benefits for bookworms. Firstly, it allows you to track your spending on books more effectively, helping you stay within your budget. Additionally, a book cost calculator can help you compare prices across different retailers, ensuring that you get the best deals on your book purchases. Furthermore, for authors, a book cost calculator can help calculate royalties and earnings, providing valuable insights into their book's profitability.
3. How to Use a Book Cost Calculator: Using a book cost calculator is simple and straightforward. Start by entering the price of the book, the quantity you wish to purchase, and any additional costs such as shipping fees. The calculator will then generate the total cost of purchasing the books, taking into account any discounts or promotions available. For authors, simply enter the price of the book, the royalty rate, and the number of copies sold to calculate earnings.
4. Tracking Royalties and Earnings: One of the key features of a book cost calculator is its ability to track royalties and earnings for authors. By inputting the price of the book and the royalty rate, authors can quickly calculate their earnings based on the number of copies sold. This information is invaluable for authors looking to maximize their earnings and make informed decisions about their writing career.
5. Maximize Your Savings: By using a book cost calculator, you can maximize your savings and make smart decisions about your book purchases. Whether you're a voracious reader or an aspiring author, a book cost calculator is a must-have tool for managing your finances and maximizing your earnings. With its ability to track spending, compare prices, and calculate royalties, a book cost calculator empowers you to make the most of your book budget.
6. Conclusion: In conclusion, a book cost calculator is a valuable tool for bookworms looking to manage their finances and make informed decisions about their book purchases. Whether you're tracking your spending as a reader or calculating royalties as an author, a book cost calculator can help you maximize your savings and make the most of your book budget. So why wait? Start using a book cost calculator today and take control of your book-related expenses.
Use Book Cost Calculator, click here- https://bfcpublications.com/royalty-calculator
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pureomi · 1 month ago
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˚୨୧⋆。🍓˚ in which: itoshi sae feels inferior to itoshi rin; even if for just a moment
includes: itoshi sae! x fem reader. 1.7k wc. fluff and humour (i promise the title is just dramatic). silly itoshi brothers but we love them. kind of ooc rin. includes some swearing but it's meant to be lighthearted <3
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itoshi rin being sick was somehow more of an inconvenience to sae than it was to rin himself. his brother falling ill during his stay at sae’s place was already a disgusting coincidence. now, sae had to watch the unfortunate scenes unfold in front of him without a choice.
“woah, you’re burning up, rin,” your voice filled the room, holding the thermometer up to check it again, your voice laced with concern. rin only nodded, his quiet nature amplified by the haze of his fever. his half-lidded eyes and flushed cheeks made him look pitiful, almost drowsy.
to sae, it was nauseating how pathetic he looked—and worse, how effective it was.
“here, i got you medicine,” you said, helping him sit up from a lying position. “say ahh,” you sang sweetly, holding an ibuprofen capsule to rin’s lips and following up with a glass of water. he obediently parted his lips without a word, swallowing with a slight grimace but no complaints.
meanwhile, sae stood in the doorway with his arms crossed, scowling like a cat. rin must have it so damn good right now, he thought bitterly. crashed out on his bed, coughing like a mess, and worst of all—being pampered by you! him spreading germs all over the room was annoying enough, but the fact that you were doting on him? that was the real problem. sure, rin was sick, but did you have to treat him like royalty? it made sae feel almost childish how much it irked him. he knew you were just being you—kind, caring, and attentive. you weren’t a complete jerk like sae; of course, you’d take care of your boyfriend’s little brother.
but still, the sight of you meticulously adjusting rin’s pillow, tucking him snugly into the blanket you and sae usually shared, and gently brushing his hair out of his face like he was some spoiled kid—it was enough to drive sae up the wall. and if all that wasn't bad enough, now you were feeding him. feeding him.
rin opened his mouth again without so much as a sigh, his quiet compliance somehow making the scene even worse. sae glared as you dabbed the corner of rin’s mouth with a tissue, your expression always remaining soft and tender.
sae’s patience finally cracked as he scoffed. “pick up your own damn spoon,” he muttered under his breath.
you finally tore your gaze from rin to look at sae, laughing lightly. “it’s okay, sae. he’s sick. it doesn’t bother me.” it didn’t bother you, but it sure as hell bothered him. watching rin quietly accept another spoonful while sae fumed in the corner felt like a fresh insult every second.
“is the soup good? i tried my best,” you asked, giving the bowl another stir, awaiting his answer. your expression was so stupidly expectant that it effortlessly tugged at sae’s heart. rin, naturally, noticed the way his older brother’s jaw tightened from the corner of his eye, sae’s glare sharp enough to cut through steel—nonverbally screaming at him to be nice. rin wasn’t dumb—he knew better than to even consider giving a bad review of your cooking, especially with sae simmering in his spot by the door. and besides, the soup was actually delicious. “it’s good,” rin said, glancing at you. he took another spoonful for good measure, his movements deliberately slow, before adding, “it’s like our mom’s cooking.”
your face lit up instantly, a warm smile spreading across your lips. “i’m glad! good thing i asked for her recipe,” you shared, feeling accomplished. then, after a thoughtful pause, rin continued, “nii-chan should try some.” that last line, paired with the smallest, almost imperceptible smirk tugging at rin’s lips as he subtly shifted his posture toward sae, was so perfectly calculated it could’ve been a soccer play. rin didn’t even bother looking at his brother; he didn’t need to. the strained silence from sae’s corner was reward enough.
sae’s knuckles flexed against the doorframe, his patience wearing thinner than ever. try some? was rin actually inviting him to participate in this ridiculous display? no way in hell. you turned to sae with an inviting smile, completely oblivious to the brewing tension. “sae, you can have some if you want. i made more just in case…” his eyes flickered to you for a moment, and he opened his mouth to respond, but all that came out was a quiet, disgruntled, “i’m fine.”
rin didn’t look up, but his breath released ever so slightly faster—barely perceptible—like he was holding back laughter. and yet, rin wasn’t done being petty. he shifted slightly under the blanket, letting out a low sigh that seemed almost contemplative. “my back hurts.”
he murmured quietly, drawing out the words just enough to give them weight. his gaze flicked briefly to sae—long enough for him to notice—before turning to you with a soft, almost too-casual tone.
“i think i need a massage.”
before sae could even process the audacity, you were already setting the soup aside. “oh no! here, turn around—” “it’s fine,” sae absolutely snaps, stepping forward and snatching you up from the bed. he firmly guided you toward the door. “i got him. just bring a hot towel, will you?” “huh? oh, okay…” you blinked, a bit startled by his sudden intervention, but nodded. “if you need anything—anything—just call, okay?”
you shot rin a sympathetic look as you left, sae’s hand still firm on the small of your back until you were out the door.
the moment the door clicked shut, it was as if rin’s back was in pristine condition—like he was born with the perfect spine. he sat up straight, stretching with ease, his back suddenly requiring nothing but a headboard to rest on. sae responded with nothing except his expression, his eyes narrowing as he stepped closer. without a word, sae lifted his leg and dug a kick square to rin’s back. “what the fuck?!” rin hissed, flinching forward. “back pain, huh?” sae asked flatly, mocking his claims. “you’re too old to be attention-seeking, dumbass,” he said, giving him another shove with his foot. “go back to okaasan, since you like being babied so much.” “fuckin’ hypocrite,” rin kicked back with both legs, shoving sae’s leg away with surprisingly good strength for someone whose supposed bones were crackling just a second ago. “you’re the one fuming for her attention.” sae rolled his eyes, unable to accept the fact that he was probably right. “she’s my girlfriend, you fucker,” despite the possibility, he defends, his voice sharper now. “and yet here you are,” rin said smugly, leaning back against the headboard, “competing with a sick kid.” sae opened his mouth to retort but froze. damn it. he was competing. and somehow, rin was winning.
“here’s the towel—” you finally walked in, but not without sensing the tension hanging in the air. “did something happen?…” you quickly remarked, in a suspicious manner. “no.” both rin and sae responded in perfect unison, their tone almost too quick, too practiced. you couldn’t help but feel like you were the only one who wasn’t in on whatever strange, silent competition they were having.
“rin’s feeling better,” sae suddenly spoke out, his voice way too casual, as he bolted for the door. “call if you need anything.” “ah, okay…” you blinked, eyes lingering on him watching him go before shaking your head. maybe you did imagine that awkwardness.
you quickly turned your attention back to rin and handed him the towel. “you should get some rest. i’ll attend to some chores.” rin gave a quiet nod, already looking more comfortable with the towel draped over him. you gave him a smile, relieved to see him at least looking better, before stepping out of the room. you found sae in the kitchen, carefully dishing out a bowl of soup. the act was too adorable; you couldn’t resist. you snuck up behind him, wrapping your arms around his waist in a gentle backhug. “what do you want?” sae asked, his voice trying to sound neutral, but you could hear the softness underneath it. you rested your chin on his shoulder, feeling his warmth, and smiled. “why are you sulking?” you asked softly, your tone full of concern. “i’m not,” sae replied, though the words came out more quietly than he intended, a little hint of frustration still there. you could feel his tension, so you just squeezed him a little tighter, letting the silence settle for a beat. “i know you’re worried,” you said, voice gentle and sincere, “but it’s okay. he’ll be fine. i’m making sure of it.” sae remained quiet for a moment, but there was something different in the way his shoulders eased under your touch. he wasn’t used to this kind of reassurance, but somehow it always worked.
there was always something disarming about your presence, the way you seemed to understand him without asking for anything in return. he didn’t quite know what to do with this feeling—this overwhelming need to just be close to you. without making any effort to break the hug, sae's hands gently moved to rest on yours. he turned slightly so he could look at you, his eyes soft and filled with something tender you couldn't quite place. there was a subtle shift as he leaned in, his breath warm against your skin. he paused, just for a moment, before pressing a soft kiss to your forehead. the kiss lingered longer than usual, a silent reassurance in the simple gesture. “i’m not worried,” sae whispered firmly, trying his best to rely his feelings. “since you’re taking care of him, i’ll just take care of you.” you blinked, your chest tightening with warmth at his words. it was rare for sae to lose his guard, and in these moments, his affection always spoke far louder than anything he could say. you could feel the space between you narrowing as he moved even closer, his lips brushing near yours. “isn’t that right?” he whispered, his voice low and filled with a quiet confidence.
AH-CHOO! a loud sneeze rang through the hallway, shattering every sense of peace in the house. sae froze, his entire posture stiffening, as he shot a death glare toward the room where rin was.
god he’s gonna kill him.
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a/n: this is such an old draft omg...finally got inspired to publish it bcz i currently feel like sae lmao. still figuring out my writing style so i hope nobody minds the randomness of my works T-T
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elikajinnie · 2 months ago
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Forbidden Taste - L.H
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P: Slytherin!Heeseung X Fem!Reader
Warnings: Teasing, Hurt/Comfort, Suggestive Content, Angst, Misunderstandings, Jealousy, Myung Jaehyun Cameo, Incorrect Use Of Amortenia.
Synopsis: You’re not popular at Hogwarts, so why is Lee Heeseung, Slytherin royalty, so intent on having you? You don’t know, and you don’t question it—until jealousy and a pink potion threaten everything.
a/n: WHAT A JOURNEY IT HAS BEEN! Thank you all <3 all the members are now completed! (i changed the plot for this so many times, its insane)
want to read the other members? -> masterlist
--
You weren’t massively popular at Hogwarts, but people knew you. Not in the way that they’d scream your name in the corridors or seek you out during mealtimes, but enough that when your name came up in conversation, there’d be nods of recognition. Oh, yeah. Decent flyer. Smart enough to keep up in classes, but not obnoxious about it. You built your reputation in small, deliberate ways—early on, too. By the time you hit your third year, you realized it wasn’t just about house points or grades. If you didn’t carve out your place here, Hogwarts could chew you up and spit you out.
So, you made connections. Little alliances. You weren’t a name in bold letters, but you weren’t invisible either. A compliment here, a conversation there. Small, calculated acts of charm to ensure you weren’t just some shadow skulking through the hallways. Yet you never overdid it. Just enough to make sure you wouldn’t be forgotten.
And honestly, that was fine. You had your friends and housemates, the people who mattered to you most. The ones you could collapse with after a particularly grueling Potions lesson or laugh with over Butterbeer-flavored Bertie Bott’s Beans in the common room. It wasn’t the spotlight, but it was enough.
It’s weird how quickly that balance can shift, though. How one incident—one person—can flip everything upside down.
It really was funny—hilarious, even. You had no answer as to why he suddenly latched onto you, why he started pursuing you of all people. Lee fucking Heeseung. One of the most popular Slytherins in his year, practically Hogwarts royalty.
Usually, people would trip over their own feet for the chance to be seen with him. Heeseung had everything: pureblood lineage, one of the best Beaters Hogwarts had seen in years, a face straight out of Witch Weekly's Most Eligible Wizards list, and a charisma that could charm the scales off a dragon. He was smart, too—top of his classes in subjects he actually cared about—and everyone knew his family was filthy rich.
He was the kind of person others orbited around. Someone whose presence turned heads the moment he walked into a room. The kind of guy you were perfectly fine staying away from because people like him didn’t care about people like you. And yet, for some inexplicable reason, he chose you.
All because you ran into him one day.
It wasn’t even that dramatic of an encounter. You were late for Transfiguration, books piled in your arms, hurrying down the corridor like your life depended on it. And then—bam. You’d slammed into what felt like a brick wall. Except brick walls didn’t have arms that steadied you as your books tumbled to the floor, and they definitely didn’t have sharp jawlines and a gaze that pinned you to the spot.
“Sorry!” you’d muttered, scrambling to pick up your books, too flustered to even look him in the eye. He didn’t say anything. Didn’t throw out the kind of snarky insult Slytherins were known for. He just… watched you. And when you dashed off down the corridor, cheeks burning with embarrassment, you thought that was the end of it.
Except it wasn’t.
After that, Heeseung started showing up. Everywhere.
At first, it was subtle. A glance in the Great Hall that lingered too long to be coincidental. A smirk when you passed him in the corridors. Then it escalated. Sitting at your table in the library, asking casually about your Charms essay while his friends shot curious looks your way. Offering to walk you to class, claiming it was “on his way” even when it clearly wasn’t. Stealing a seat beside you in Herbology, leaning closer than necessary to peek at your notes.
It didn’t take long for people to notice. Whispers started following you wherever you went, growing louder with every interaction. Your friends pestered you for answers you didn’t have, and his admirers glared daggers at you from across the room.
And all you could think was, Why? Why you? Out of all the girls fawning over him—purebloods, Quidditch stars, girls far prettier and more polished than you—what on earth made Lee Heeseung decide you were worth his attention?
You tried convincing yourself that it was a joke. Some elaborate Slytherin prank that you’d accidentally wandered into. Any day now, you’d wake up to Heeseung laughing in your face, surrounded by his friends, as he revealed that all of this—every smirk, every casual wave, every time he leaned in close enough for you to catch a whiff of his expensive cologne—was just for his own entertainment.
But the days passed, and the teasing you braced yourself for never came. If anything, Heeseung’s attention only intensified.
“I could help you with that, you know,” he offered one day during a particularly grueling Potions class. You’d been furiously scribbling notes, trying to keep up with Professor Slughorn’s lecture. Heeseung was perched on the edge of your shared table, his hand propping up his chin as he watched you.
“With what?” you asked without looking up, determined not to let his lazy, amused tone fluster you.
“Your notes,” he said, gesturing at your parchment. “Your handwriting’s awful. What if you can’t read it later?”
You shot him a glare, but he just grinned. “I’ll manage,” you said, shoving your notes further away from him for good measure.
Moments like that became your new normal. Heeseung showing up uninvited, weaving himself into your day like he belonged there. Offering to help you study, sneaking your favorite dessert onto your plate in the Great Hall, throwing an arm around your shoulders like you were long-lost friends.
And yet, despite your initial resistance, you found yourself softening. Heeseung wasn’t as insufferable as you’d assumed he’d be. Sure, he was cocky—he wouldn’t be Lee Heeseung if he weren’t—but he also had this disarming charm about him. He listened when you spoke, remembered the little things you mentioned in passing, and had a way of making you laugh when you least expected it.
You acted normal around him—or at least, you tried to. You didn’t show how much he affected you, how your pulse quickened when he leaned in close, the playful smirk on his lips as he talked to you about some trivial thing. You didn’t let it show when he’d take your books without asking, holding them effortlessly with one hand as if they weighed nothing, and you definitely didn’t let him see how your cheeks burned when he casually brushed his fingers against yours as he handed them back.
You didn’t react when he helped you in Potions either, his voice low in your ear as he whispered which ingredients to add next, his breath warm against your skin. Even when your heart stuttered, you kept your face neutral, refusing to give him the satisfaction of knowing just how much he got under your skin.
And Merlin, did he love to push.
He’d ditch his friends without a second thought, his usual crowd of Slytherins calling after him as he veered off to sit with you instead. You’d hear their muffled complaints from across the room, but Heeseung didn’t seem to care. He’d just flash them that infuriatingly perfect smile—the one that screamed, I know exactly what I’m doing,—and plop down next to you like he’d been there all along.
“Don’t you have other people to bother?” you’d mutter, barely glancing at him as he propped his chin on his hand, watching you with an intensity that made it impossible to focus on anything else.
“Why would I, when you’re so much more interesting?” he’d reply smoothly, the corners of his mouth tugging upward in a way that sent your stomach into an uninvited freefall.
But you didn’t give him the satisfaction of a blush or a flustered response. Instead, you’d roll your eyes and pretend to be annoyed, even as you caught yourself glancing at him when you thought he wasn’t looking.
The truth was, Heeseung made it harder and harder to ignore him. He wasn’t just persistent—he was thoughtful in ways you didn’t expect. He remembered the tiniest details, like how you hated licorice wands or how you preferred studying in the library’s quieter corners. He went out of his way to make your day just a little easier, sliding your favorite pastries onto your plate at breakfast or swapping out your worn-out quills with brand-new ones from his bag.
It was infuriating. And endearing. And confusing.
Maybe it was the way he always seemed to know when you needed cheering up, or the way his voice softened when he spoke to you, or the way he looked at you—like you were the only person in the room that mattered.
But you weren’t ready to admit it. Not to yourself, and definitely not to him. So, you kept acting normal, pretending like he didn’t affect you as much as he did.
At this point, even your friends couldn’t keep quiet about it. Every time Heeseung walked into a room and made a beeline for you, their eyebrows would raise a little higher. When he’d flash you one of his trademark grins or casually sling an arm around your shoulders, their teasing smirks were impossible to miss.
“So, are you two a thing, or what?” one of your friends finally asked during a late-night study session in the common room.
“No,” you said quickly, maybe a little too quickly, and their skeptical look said it all.
“Well, he certainly thinks you are,” another chimed in, grinning as they flipped through their Charms textbook. “You do realize half the school thinks you’re secretly dating, right?”
You rolled your eyes, brushing it off. “He’s just… like that. It’s probably some sort of game to him.”
But even as you said it, you weren’t so sure. Because if this was a game, Heeseung was playing it far too convincingly.
And then he went and completely blindsided you.
It was after Defense Against the Dark Arts, a class you shared with him. You’d just finished stuffing your notes into your bag, about to make your way to the library, when he appeared beside you, his usual confident grin plastered across his face.
“So,” he started casually, leaning against your desk. “Want to go to Hogsmeade with me this weekend?”
You froze, blinking at him like you hadn’t heard him properly. “What?”
“Hogsmeade,” he repeated, as if it were the most obvious thing in the world. “You. Me. A date.”
Your brain stuttered at the word. A date?
“You’re joking,” you said, though your voice sounded a little less confident than you would’ve liked.
“I’m not,” he said simply, tilting his head and watching you with that annoyingly earnest expression that made it impossible to tell if he was messing with you.
“I… I can’t,” you stammered, feeling your cheeks grow warm. “I mean, thank you, but I don’t think—”
“Don’t think too hard about it,” he interrupted smoothly, cutting off your attempt at a polite rejection. “I like you. You like me—don’t even try to deny it,” he added quickly, smirking when you opened your mouth to argue. “So why not give it a shot?”
You stared at him, dumbfounded. “Heeseung, I—”
“Before you say no,” he said, leaning in closer, “think about this. What’s the worst that could happen? You have a good time with me? Sounds like a pretty low-risk situation, if you ask me.”
It was infuriating how he made it sound so simple, like agreeing to a date with him wasn’t the most intimidating thing in the world.
“I’m serious, Heeseung,” you said, trying to sound firm. “I don’t think it’s a good idea.”
“And I’m serious,” he countered, his voice dropping slightly. “I’m not taking no for an answer.”
The way he said it wasn’t pushy or aggressive—it was confident, certain, like he already knew you were going to say yes eventually. And maybe that’s what threw you off the most.
You glanced at him one last time before turning to leave the classroom, your lips pressed into a tight line.
And of course, he followed.
“Hey, wait!” he called, his voice echoing down the corridor as you walked ahead, refusing to look back.
“I said no, Heeseung,” you said over your shoulder, quickening your pace.
“And I said I’m not taking no for an answer,” he shot back, his footsteps ringing louder as he hurried to catch up with you. “You didn’t even give me a proper reason!”
“I don’t need to give you a reason!” you replied, exasperated, keeping your gaze fixed forward.
But he wasn’t giving up. He was persistent—too persistent. You could hear him muttering under his breath, probably running through a list of arguments to convince you, but before he could get another word out, you heard a loud, unmistakable yelp.
Pausing mid-step, you turned just in time to see Heeseung stumble over a loose stone jutting out of the floor, his arms flailing to keep his balance. He caught himself at the last second, straightening up and brushing off his robes like nothing happened.
“Smooth,” you said, unable to stop the amused quirk of your lips.
“Yeah, yeah, laugh it up,” he muttered, jogging a few steps to close the distance between you.
But the second he got close, you picked up your pace again, determined not to let him win.
He didn’t stop, though. Heeseung was like a particularly annoying shadow, trailing after you with single-minded determination. Except this shadow seemed to have the worst luck imaginable.
Not five steps later, you heard a startled “Hey, watch it!” from a much shorter Ravenclaw student as Heeseung nearly crashed into them.
“Yeah, yeah! Sorry!” he called over his shoulder, not even slowing down as he kept his focus on you.
You didn’t bother hiding your grin this time, though you kept walking.
And then, just as he was about to catch up again, you saw it—a ghost floating lazily through the corridor ahead.
“Heeseung,” you said without stopping, your tone almost warning.
“What?” he asked, completely oblivious, his gaze fixed on you instead of what was in front of him.
You didn’t answer. You just waited for it to happen.
Sure enough, he strode directly into the ghost—a particularly dramatic one, judging by the loud whoosh and Heeseung’s subsequent startled shiver as he stumbled back.
“Bloody hell!” he exclaimed, swiping at his robes as if it’d help.
“Maybe if you watched where you were going…” you said, finally stopping to face him, arms crossed over your chest as you raised an eyebrow.
He shook his head, his focus snapping back to you almost instantly. “I’ll watch where I’m going when you stop running away from me,” he said, his voice laced with determination.
You rolled your eyes, but before you could turn away again, he stepped closer, this time careful not to trip over anything or crash into anyone.
“Look,” he said, his tone softer now. “I know I’m being persistent. But it’s only because I really want you to say yes. Just one date. That’s all I’m asking. If you hate it, I’ll back off. But I think we’ll have a good time.”
For the first time, you hesitated. There was something about the way he looked at you—earnest, hopeful—that made it hard to brush him off like before. Heeseung wasn’t just being cocky now; he was being sincere. And it was that sincerity that made your resolve waver.
“One date,” he repeated, holding your gaze. “What do you say?”
You sighed, stopping long enough to turn and face him properly. His eyes were wide, his expression almost pleading but still holding that annoying confidence that made him, well, Heeseung.
“Fine,” you said, crossing your arms. “One date. But if I don’t enjoy it, that’s it. No more asking, no more following me around, no more…” You gestured vaguely toward him, “…whatever this is.”
His face broke into a grin so smug and victorious that you instantly regretted agreeing.
“Deal,” he said without hesitation. “But don’t worry, you’re going to love it.”
“Don’t push your luck,” you muttered, but the way his grin grew wider told you he’d already won this round.
“Alright, then,” he said, taking a step closer. Too close. You could feel the faintest brush of his robes against yours as he leaned in. “This Saturday, Three Broomsticks. Noon. I’ll even buy you Butterbeer.”
“Wow, how generous of you,” you deadpanned, but your heart was doing that annoying fluttering thing again.
“You’ll see,” he said, his voice dropping lower, teasing. “I’m full of surprises.”
Before you could fire back a snarky response, his hands moved, one settling on your waist like it was the most natural thing in the world.
Your breath hitched.
You weren’t sure what he was saying—something about how the Three Broomsticks had the best treacle tart, or maybe how he’d already booked a spot with Madam Rosmerta—but the words blurred in your head. All you could focus on was his hand, warm and firm, holding you in place. And his body, so close to yours that you could feel the faint heat radiating off him.
Your mind raced, trying to decide if you should pull away or just let him keep talking.
“…don’t tell me you’ve never tried the cinnamon hot chocolate there,” he said, his lips curving into another grin.
“What?” you blurted, blinking up at him, trying to drag your attention back to his actual words.
He chuckled, the sound low and soft, and you hated how it made your stomach flip.
“You weren’t even listening,” he teased, his thumb brushing lightly against your waist before he pulled back, giving you just enough space to breathe again.
“Maybe if you weren’t so close, I’d be able to concentrate,” you shot back, though your voice came out a little weaker than you’d intended.
Heeseung didn’t look fazed. If anything, he looked even more pleased with himself, like he knew exactly how flustered you were and wasn’t planning to let you forget it anytime soon.
“Guess I’ll have to tell you on our date, then,” he said, stepping back fully now, his smirk still firmly in place.
You rolled your eyes, but your cheeks burned as you turned away, determined not to let him see just how much he was getting to you.
“Saturday,” he called after you as you started walking again, his tone light and cheerful. “Don’t forget!”
You didn’t answer, but you didn’t need to. The truth was, no matter how much you tried to deny it, you knew you wouldn’t forget. Not with the way your heart was still racing.
Saturday came faster than you expected, and by the time you were standing in front of the Three Broomsticks, you were already second-guessing your decision. Why did you agree to this again? Oh, right—because Heeseung was annoyingly persistent, and some traitorous part of you was curious to see what a date with him would actually be like.
You adjusted your scarf, the chill of the winter air biting at your cheeks. The sound of chatter and clinking glasses spilled out of the tavern, and for a brief moment, you considered turning around and pretending you’d forgotten. But before you could so much as take a step back, a familiar voice called out behind you.
“You’re early.”
You turned to see Heeseung approaching, dressed in his usual green-and-silver scarf, his black coat tailored perfectly to him. His hair was slightly tousled from the wind, and he wore that same confident smile that made your stomach twist in ways you wished it wouldn’t.
“I’m on time,” you corrected, crossing your arms.
“Early, on time—same thing,” he said, coming to a stop in front of you. His eyes scanned you briefly, and for a second, you thought you saw something softer in his expression. “You look good.”
Your cheeks warmed, and you immediately regretted your decision to wear something classy. “Don’t start,” you muttered, brushing past him toward the door.
He laughed, catching up to you easily. “What? It’s a compliment!”
“Yeah, yeah.” You pushed open the door, grateful for the wave of warmth that greeted you as you stepped inside.
The Three Broomsticks was busy, as it always was on weekends, but Heeseung didn’t seem the least bit fazed. He waved to Madam Rosmerta, who greeted him like they were old friends, and led you to a small table near the window that had somehow been left open.
“See?” he said, pulling out a chair for you. “Perfect spot.”
You hesitated for a moment before sitting down, mumbling a quiet, “Thanks,” as he slid into the seat across from you.
For a few moments, it was quiet—well, as quiet as it could be in the bustling tavern. You busied yourself with looking out the window, watching as students milled about in the snow-covered streets of Hogsmeade.
“So,” Heeseung said, breaking the silence. “What’s your go-to order here?”
You glanced at him, raising an eyebrow. “Why do you care?”
“Because,” he said with a grin, leaning forward slightly, “I want to make sure you actually enjoy this date. Remember? You said if you didn’t, I couldn’t ask again.”
“Still sticking to that, by the way,” you reminded him.
“Noted,” he said, looking far too amused for your liking. “But I’m confident you’ll have a good time.”
“Of course you are,” you muttered, but you couldn’t help the small smile that tugged at your lips.
You ended up ordering Butterbeer and treacle tart—not because you particularly wanted it, but because he wouldn’t stop raving about it earlier that week.
When the drinks and food arrived, the conversation started off slow, but much to your surprise, it wasn’t awkward. Heeseung had a way of keeping things light and entertaining.
And, annoyingly, he kept making you laugh.
After you finished at the Three Broomsticks, Heeseung didn’t let the day end there. Instead, he insisted on taking you around Hogsmeade, claiming it was his duty to make sure you had the full experience.
“This isn’t my first time here, you know,” you said as he led you down the cobblestone streets, passing shop after shop.
“Yeah, but it’s your first time here with me,” he countered, flashing you that same cocky grin that had you rolling your eyes for the tenth time that day.
Still, you didn’t protest when he pulled you into Honeydukes, pointing out his favorite candies and piling a small bag with sweets you hadn’t even asked for. “It’s on me,” he said when you tried to argue, waving you off like it was nothing.
Next, he dragged you to Zonko’s, where he spent far too much time marveling over the prank items and showing you his favorites with the enthusiasm of a first-year discovering the place for the first time. You couldn’t help but smile as he rattled off stories of the chaos he’d caused with them in the Slytherin common room.
And then, just as you were debating whether or not to call it a day, it started snowing.
Soft, delicate flakes drifted down from the sky, blanketing the streets and rooftops in a thin layer of white. The air grew quieter, the hustle and bustle of Hogsmeade fading into the background as people paused to take in the sight.
You stopped walking, tilting your head back slightly to watch the snow fall. For a moment, you forgot about Heeseung entirely, your mind quieting as you focused on the tiny snowflakes melting against your skin.
When you finally looked back at him, he was staring at you.
“What?” you asked, raising an eyebrow.
He didn’t answer right away, his eyes soft as they searched your face. Finally, he said, “You.”
You blinked, caught off guard. “What about me?”
“You’re just…” He trailed off, taking a step closer. His voice was quieter now, more serious. “You’re beautiful, you know that?”
Your breath caught in your throat, and before you could even think of how to respond, he closed the space between you, his hand gently reaching for your scarf.
You stood frozen as he adjusted it carefully, his fingers brushing against your neck as he tightened it slightly to block out the cold. His touch was warm, his movements unhurried, and when he was finished, his hands lingered for just a second longer than necessary.
“There,” he said softly, his gaze meeting yours again. “Wouldn’t want you catching a cold.”
You felt your cheeks grow warm, and it wasn’t from the weather. “You’re ridiculous,” you muttered, but your voice lacked its usual bite.
“And yet, you’re still here with me,” he teased, a small smile tugging at his lips.
You didn’t respond, turning your gaze back to the falling snow. But as Heeseung slipped his hand into yours, giving it a gentle squeeze, you didn’t pull away, cause you didn’t feel the need to fight him.
The rest of the walk through Hogsmeade passed in a comfortable silence, your hands still entwined as the snow continued to fall around you. You didn’t know how Heeseung managed to make it feel so… easy. Like holding hands with him was something you’d been doing for years. Like the tension that had built between you over the past weeks had melted away as quickly as the snowflakes on his coat.
He led you to the outskirts of the village, where the streets grew quieter, and the noise of other students faded into the background. The path was lined with trees dusted in white, their bare branches glistening under the faint light of the afternoon sun.
“It’s nice out here,” you murmured, your breath visible in the crisp air.
“Yeah,” Heeseung said, but when you glanced at him, you realized he wasn’t looking at the trees or the snow-covered landscape. He was looking at you again.
“What?” you asked, your voice softer now, a little less defensive.
He shrugged, his lips curling into that small, genuine smile you were starting to recognize—the one he didn’t use often, the one that wasn’t for show. “Nothing. Just… you seem different today.”
“Different?”
“Yeah,” he said, his thumb brushing lightly against the back of your hand. “Less scary.”
You rolled your eyes, though you couldn’t help the laugh that slipped out. “I’m not scary.”
“Tell that to everyone else who’s too afraid to talk to you.”
“Maybe I just don’t like wasting my time,” you said, smirking up at him.
“Well, lucky me, then,” he replied, his tone teasing. “You must think I’m worth it.”
Before you could say anything, though, he stopped walking, turning to face you fully. His free hand reached up to brush a stray snowflake from your hair, and you froze at the tenderness of the gesture.
“You’re really something, you know that?” he said, his voice low, his gaze steady on yours.
You swallowed hard, your heart pounding in your chest. “You keep saying things like that,” you mumbled, trying to sound annoyed but failing miserably.
“Because I mean it,” he said simply, like it was the most obvious thing in the world.
And then, before you could overthink it, he leaned in—not too fast, not too slow. Just enough to give you time to pull away if you wanted to. But you didn’t.
The kiss was soft, warm, and fleeting, like a snowflake landing on your lips and melting before you could fully feel it. When he pulled back, his face was close enough that you could still feel his breath against your skin.
“I’ll take that as a yes to a second date,” he murmured, his tone teasing but his eyes holding that same sincerity that had caught you off guard from the start.
You didn’t trust yourself to speak, so you just rolled your eyes and tugged him along, back toward the village.
But the small smile on your face told him everything he needed to know.
As you and Heeseung continued down the snowy path, oblivious to everything else around you, neither of you noticed the three figures hidden just out of sight, watching your every move. They stood together, concealed by the shadow of the trees, their eyes trained on the way you and Heeseung interacted, the way your hands fit together so naturally.
It didn’t take long for the bitterness to fester. One of them, a girl with dark brown hair and a scowl that could cut glass, clenched her fists at her sides, watching the way Heeseung smiled at you, how easily he made you laugh.
"Of course she’s with him," she muttered under her breath, her voice laced with venom. "She always has to go after what’s not hers."
Beside her, another figure—taller, with blonde hair—narrowed her eyes at the scene. "We’ve all been trying for years. Why her? What makes her so special?" Her voice was low, barely controlled, and her gaze burned with resentment.
The third figure, a quieter one, with sharp eyes and a calculating expression, stood back, observing the situation silently. She was still for a moment before she spoke, her voice calm but filled with hidden malice. "Maybe it's time we remind him who belongs by his side."
The girl with the dark hair stepped forward, fists still clenched, the fire in her eyes growing. "Let’s see if we can’t change his mind."
They lingered in the shadows, watching as Heeseung pulled you closer, speaking in soft tones that made your smile widen. The sight of the two of you together twisted in their hearts, their jealousy and rage bubbling over. They knew that this wasn’t over—not by a long shot.
None of you could have predicted what would happen next.
--
The next few days were a blur of contentment. You couldn’t remember the last time you’d been this happy, or this at ease. Heeseung had truly surpassed every expectation you’d set for him. He was everything you didn’t know you needed in a boyfriend—gentle when you were stressed, confident when you were unsure, and always there to make you smile, even on your worst days.
When you studied together in the library, he’d always find ways to make learning feel less like a chore. Whether it was cracking jokes during boring Potions readings or helping you with Transfiguration, his presence made even the most tedious subjects bearable. And when you were working on homework together in the common room, you’d catch him looking over at you, that amused glint in his eye as if he couldn’t believe how lucky he was to have you.
You’d even gone to his Quidditch match that weekend, which turned into one of the most exciting games you’d ever watched. Heeseung had played brilliantly, his focus unshakable as he zoomed around the pitch, expertly dodging Bludgers and scoring goal after goal.
When the match ended, with Slytherin emerging victorious, Heeseung found you in the stands, grinning widely as he jogged over to you.
“Good game?” you teased, unable to contain the excitement in your voice.
Heeseung shrugged, feigning modesty. "You know, I couldn’t have done it without my good luck charm."
Your heart fluttered as he slipped his Slytherin Quidditch jersey over your head, his hands lingering on your shoulders just a little longer than necessary. "This is for you," he said, his voice low but playful. “You made me win.”
You blinked, looking down at the jersey, which was too big for you but somehow made you feel like you were wearing a piece of him. “I didn’t do anything—”
“Yeah, but you were there," he interrupted, his fingers lightly brushing your cheek as he grinned. “That’s all I needed.”
But Heeseung had one problem—he never knew when to stop kissing. An innocent kiss shared with you would quickly turn into something far more passionate, the kind of kiss that left you breathless, with your heart racing in your chest. His lips would press against yours, and before you knew it, he’d pull you even closer, deepening the kiss with a soft but urgent intensity.
His hands would find their way to your waist, tugging gently as he pulled you closer, and you couldn’t help but melt into him. His kisses weren’t just kisses—they were all-consuming, leaving you dizzy.
It wasn’t long before his hair would become messy, stray locks falling into his eyes as he kissed you with that playful but determined energy. By the time you pulled apart, your lips would be sore, swollen from his insistence. And your neck? Covered with small, dark marks—hickeys left behind as reminders of every moment he couldn’t quite control himself around you.
But the world wasn’t fair to you.
One day, everything changed. You had walked up to Heeseung, as you did every day, eager to see him after class, to share a laugh, maybe steal a quick kiss. But when you rounded the corner, you froze.
There, in the hallway, Heeseung was kissing a Slytherin girl—her hands tangled in his hair, his arms wrapped around her in a way that was so familiar, so intimate, that it felt like a punch to your chest.
Your breath caught in your throat, your body frozen in place, as you watched the scene unfold in front of you. The warmth of his kisses, the tenderness you thought was reserved for you, was now being given to someone else.
And when Heeseung finally pulled away from her, noticing you standing there, your heart shattered.
He didn’t even look surprised to see you. His eyes met yours, cold and indifferent. “What’s wrong?” he asked, his voice flat.
You couldn’t speak. You couldn’t breathe. You felt as though the ground had been ripped from beneath you, leaving you dangling in the air, completely lost.
Then, the words you never expected to hear came tumbling from his mouth.
“I never had feelings for you,” he said, his tone casual, almost dismissive. “I never loved you.”
Your world tilted. The person you had trusted, the one who had made you feel special, had never felt the same. All those moments meant nothing. They were nothing but lies.
The pain surged through you like a tidal wave. You felt your chest constrict, your eyes stinging with the heat of unshed tears. Your voice broke as you screamed at him, “How could you? After everything?!”
But it didn’t matter. He didn’t care.
The girl with him—her smirk stretched wide, malicious and triumphant—stepped closer to Heeseung, hanging off his arm like she had every right to be there. Her eyes flicked to you, cold and triumphant, as if she reveled in your pain.
You didn’t even recognize the version of Heeseung standing before you. The boy you thought you knew—the one who had held you like you were everything to him—was gone. In his place was someone who didn’t care at all.
You turned on your heel, running away before the tears could spill. Your heart was breaking with every step, but you couldn’t bring yourself to look back at him, at them. You didn’t want to see the cruel smirk on her face, or the emptiness in his eyes.
You were heartbroken, yes, but beneath the sorrow was a rising tide of anger—burning, raw, and uncontrollable. How could Heeseung break your heart like that? After everything, after acting like you were the only woman in his life, like you were the one he couldn’t live without?
The memories played on a loop in your mind, tormenting you. The way he would pull you close and whisper that you were perfect for him. The way he’d laugh at your jokes, even the bad ones, and say that you made his days better.
It had all been a lie.
You paced the empty corridor, your thoughts spiraling into a storm of hurt and rage. Your fists clenched at your sides as tears streaked down your face. You wanted to scream, to cry, to find him and demand answers. How could someone who seemed so perfect turn out to be so cruel?
The image of him kissing that girl was seared into your mind, taunting you. The way she had smirked at you, so smug and triumphant, like she’d won some twisted game. The way Heeseung had looked at you—not with the warmth and love you were used to, but with indifference, as if you had been nothing but a fleeting amusement.
The days after that were some of the hardest you’d ever endured. You refused to let Heeseung see how much he had broken you, refused to let him or anyone else know how deeply his betrayal had cut. Instead, you buried your pain beneath a carefully crafted mask. You laughed with your friends, answered questions in class, and even managed to pull off smiles in the Great Hall. To everyone else, it was like nothing had happened.
But when you were alone, the mask slipped, and the weight of it all came crashing down. The nights were the worst, when you lay in bed replaying the moment over and over, like a cruel, inescapable nightmare. The sound of his words—I never loved you—echoed in your mind, shredding your heart all over again.
One afternoon, during Potions class, the pain overwhelmed you. Heeseung had walked in, all casual as if nothing had happened. He didn’t look your way—not even once—but that didn’t stop the memory of his betrayal from stabbing at your chest.
Your hands shook as you measured out ingredients for your potion, your vision blurring as hot tears threatened to spill. You couldn’t take it anymore. Quietly excusing yourself, you fled the classroom, muttering something about needing the restroom before anyone could stop you.
The moment you stepped into the dimly lit bathroom, the tears you’d been holding back came rushing out. You leaned against the sink, gripping the edges tightly as sobs wracked your body.
You didn’t even notice Moaning Myrtle until her soft voice broke through your cries.
“Rough day?”
Startled, you looked up, your tear-streaked face meeting the ghost’s translucent figure. She was floating by one of the sinks, her usual pout replaced with something almost... sympathetic.
You sniffled, quickly wiping your face. “Sorry, Myrtle. I didn’t mean to disturb you.”
Myrtle shook her head, hovering closer. “You’re not disturbing me,” she said quietly. “I know what it’s like to cry in here. To feel... forgotten.”
Her words hit you harder than you expected. For once, she wasn’t mocking you or complaining about her own misfortunes. She was just... there, watching you with a sadness in her ghostly eyes that mirrored your own pain.
“I just don’t get it,” you whispered, your voice breaking. “How could someone say they cared and then... and then throw it all away like it meant nothing?”
Myrtle tilted her head, her gaze softening even more. “Boys are awful,” she said matter-of-factly, her tone holding a mix of understanding and bitterness. “They make you feel special, and then they break you."
You let out a shaky laugh, though it was more bitter than anything else. “Yeah, well, he’s the worst of them.”
Myrtle floated closer, hovering just beside you as you leaned over the sink, your tears falling freely now,and she stayed there, silently watching as you poured your heart out in the empty bathroom.
When you finally wiped your face and straightened up, Myrtle gave you a small, sad smile. “He’s not worth it,” she said softly.
You nodded, your throat too tight to speak, and with a final glance at your tear-streaked reflection, you left the bathroom.
--
You kept watching hopelessly as Heeseung changed right before your eyes. Despite being a Slytherin, he’d always been different—sharp, confident, but never cruel. He treated others with respect, even when it wasn’t expected of him, and it was one of the reasons people gravitated toward him so easily.
But now… now he wasn’t the same.
You started noticing it in small things at first. He’d snap at younger students who accidentally got in his way, barking out insults that made their faces crumple in embarrassment. He’d push past others in the corridors with an air of arrogance that felt alien, not sparing them a glance or apology.
Then, it became more deliberate. In Potions, you overheard him taunting a Gryffindor girl for botching her assignment, his words dripping with disdain. During Quidditch practice, he shouted at his teammates with a venom you’d never seen before, his frustration palpable even from the stands.
It didn’t just confuse you—it confused everyone.
Heeseung had always been popular, not just because of his looks or his Quidditch skills, but because he was charismatic. He had a way of making others feel comfortable, seen, and valued, even if they weren’t in his social circle. But now, that warmth was gone.
You overheard students whispering about him. “What’s gotten into Heeseung?” one Ravenclaw asked her friend as they passed you in the hallway. “He’s acting like a total git lately.”
“I know,” her friend agreed. “He’s not like this. It’s so weird.”
And it was weird. Heeseung wasn’t like this. He wasn’t the type to knock books out of a first-year’s hands and keep walking, or to purposely humiliate someone in front of their peers just to get a laugh. But that was exactly what he was doing now, and every time you saw it, you felt that ache in your chest grow deeper.
What had changed?
You wanted to convince yourself it didn’t matter anymore. He wasn’t your problem. He had made that clear when he kissed someone else and shattered your heart in the process. But as much as you tried to turn a blind eye, you couldn’t.
This wasn’t just about you anymore.
Heeseung’s behavior was affecting everyone, and the boy who had once made you laugh until your sides hurt was now someone you barely recognized. Watching him spiral like this hurt more than you cared to admit.
But the question remained: why? What had turned him into this unknown version of himself?
The answer to that question was revealed to you one day, completely by accident.
You were on your way to your common room, distracted as you dug through your bag, mentally ticking off the homework you still had to finish. You weren’t paying attention to your surroundings, not until someone grabbed your arm and yanked you into an empty classroom.
You yelped, stumbling as you turned to face your captor. “What the—”
A Slytherin girl stood before you, her wide eyes darting nervously toward the door, as though she was afraid of being followed or heard. She placed a finger to her lips, hushing you before you could finish your sentence.
“What is your problem?” you hissed, yanking your arm out of her grip.
“Shh!” she insisted, glancing toward the corridor one last time before shutting the door behind her. Her actions were suspicious, like she was about to do something she wasn’t supposed to.
You crossed your arms, glaring at her. “Care to explain why you just dragged me in here?”
She stepped closer, lowering her voice. “You’re Heeseung`s girlfriend.”
The mention of his name immediately sent a pang through your chest, but you held your ground. “Was,” you corrected sharply. “Not anymore.”
She rolled her eyes. “Whatever. Look, I don’t have a lot of time, so just listen. Heeseung’s not himself.”
You frowned, your skepticism evident. “I’m aware of that. Thanks for pointing out the obvious.”
“No, you don’t get it.” She leaned in, her expression serious. “He’s not himself because he’s under the influence of Amortentia.”
The words hit you like a slap, leaving you momentarily speechless. “What?”
She nodded, her voice urgent now. “That girl—Yoonhee—she’s been dosing him with Amortentia for weeks. That’s why he’s been acting so different.”
Your heart raced as you processed her words, disbelief swirling in your mind. “You’re lying,” you said, your voice trembling. “Why would she do that?”
The Slytherin girl let out a humorless laugh. “Why do you think? She wanted him, and she didn’t care how she got him. But it’s not just about making him fall for her. She’s using the potion to influence him, to turn him into someone else. She’s controlling him, and you’ve seen the result.”
Your mind reeled as the pieces began to fall into place. The sudden change in Heeseung’s personality, the cruelty, the way he’d dismissed you so coldly—all of it made a sick kind of sense now.
“She’s dangerous,” the girl continued. “And if someone doesn’t stop her, Heeseung’s going to be completely lost.”
You stared at her, your emotions a whirlwind of anger, confusion, and disbelief. “Why are you telling me this?”
She hesitated, guilt flashing in her eyes. “Because it’s wrong. I thought about staying out of it, but Heeseung doesn’t deserve this. And... neither do you.”
Your fists clenched at your sides as rage surged through you. The betrayal you had felt from Heeseung was now redirected toward Yoonhee, the girl who had manipulated him, stolen his free will, and shattered your heart in the process.
If this was true, then Yoonhee had taken everything from you—and from him.
You took a deep breath, meeting the girl’s gaze. “How do I stop her?”
The Slytherin girl’s lips pressed into a thin line before she said, “I’ll help you, but we have to act fast. The longer she keeps him under her control, the harder it’ll be to break him free.”
You suddenly narrowed your eyes, crossing your arms. “And how do I know I can trust you?”
She sighed, running a hand through her hair in frustration. “Look, I get why you’d be suspicious, but I don’t have anything to gain from this. I’m only telling you because…” She hesitated, looking almost embarrassed before continuing. “Because I’ve seen how Heeseung was with you. And then I’ve seen him with Yoonhee. And it’s not the same.”
Her voice softened as she spoke, her gaze meeting yours. “What you and Heeseung had—it was real. It was... cute, even. He was different when he was with you. Like he couldn’t stop looking at you, like you were the only thing that mattered. I swear, he practically had hearts in his eyes whenever you were around.”
Your heart clenched at her words, the image of Heeseung’s affectionate smile flashing in your mind.
“But with Yoonhee?” she continued, her tone sharp. “It’s fake. Everything about it feels wrong. He doesn’t look at her the way he looked at you. There’s no warmth, no care. It’s like... like he’s just going through the motions, like a puppet on strings. And the way she parades him around, acting like she owns him—it’s sick.”
Her voice grew quieter, tinged with guilt. “I should have said something sooner. I should’ve stopped it when I first realized what she was doing. But I didn’t, and now things have gone too far. I just... I couldn’t keep watching it anymore.”
You studied her face, searching for any sign of deception, but all you saw was genuine regret.
“You really think what we had was real?” you asked, your voice barely above a whisper.
She nodded firmly. “I know it was. Anyone with eyes could see it. Heeseung doesn’t look at anyone the way he looked at you. And if you still care about him, even after everything, then you need to help him. Because what Yoonhee’s doing? It’s not love. It’s control. And it’s destroying him.”
Taking a deep breath, you nodded. “Okay. I’ll help. But if this turns out to be some kind of trick…”
“It’s not,” she said quickly, her eyes steady and resolute. “I promise.”
“Good,” you said, squaring your shoulders. “Because if she thinks she can get away with this, she’s dead wrong.”
After speaking with Hyejin who had revealed everything—you went straight to the library, your mind set on one thing: finding an antidote to Amortentia.
You scoured the shelves, your fingers brushing over the spines of dusty Potions books, each title longer and more complicated than the last. "Advanced Alchemical Properties of Magical Infusions," "The Elusive Art of Potionmaking," "Rare Remedies and Their Applications"—none of them seemed to promise the straightforward answers you were hoping for.
Potions had never been your strong suit, and as you flipped through yet another heavy tome filled with convoluted instructions and obscure ingredients, you groaned in frustration.
Why did Potions have to be so complicated? Couldn’t it be more like Herbology—straightforward, clear, and easy to follow? You were confident you could have whipped up a solution in no time if that were the case. But instead, you were drowning in endless jargon about precise stirring techniques, moon phase timings, and ingredient substitutions.
And the worst part? Heeseung had always been the one to help you when Potions overwhelmed you. His natural skill in the subject had been your saving grace more times than you could count, and the irony wasn’t lost on you that now, when you needed help the most, he was the one you were trying to save.
After what felt like hours of fruitless searching, you let out another groan, slamming the book in front of you shut. “Why are there so many books on Potions?” you muttered under your breath. “Why can’t this be simple? Just a page with ‘Amortentia antidote’ in big bold letters—how hard would that be?”
You stared at the pile of books in front of you, exhaustion creeping in as you realized just how out of your depth you were. You needed help, and you needed it fast. But who could you turn to? Heeseung was out of the question, and you didn’t trust Hyejin enough to rely on her completely.
You racked your brain, thinking of anyone who might have the skill and knowledge to guide you. Your mind flashed to someone unexpected—someone you hadn’t considered at first but who might be your best shot.
Professor Slughorn.
He wasn’t exactly your favorite teacher, but he was an expert in Potions, and if anyone could point you in the right direction, it was him. The problem was convincing him to help without spilling the entire truth. After all, you couldn’t exactly admit that a student was brewing and using Amortentia without risking expulsion for everyone involved.
Still, you didn’t have many options. If you couldn’t find the answer here, then you’d have to take the risk and ask for guidance.
You were just about to leave the library, your mind still swirling with frustration, when you collided with someone. The impact sent you stumbling back a step, your bag nearly slipping from your shoulder.
“Oh! Sorry about that!” you said quickly, steadying yourself.
“No, no, it’s my fault,” the other person replied, their voice warm and apologetic.
When you looked up, you were surprised to find yourself face-to-face with Myung Jaehyun, a Gryffindor student. You didn’t know him particularly well, but you knew of him—he had a reputation for excelling in Potions, often earning praise from Professor Slughorn.
The proverbial light bulb practically lit up over your head as an idea struck you. Jaehyun could help.
You smiled, stepping closer to him, which made Jaehyun’s cheeks flush slightly. He rubbed the back of his neck, avoiding your gaze for a moment. “Um... something wrong?”
“No, not at all,” you said, your tone light and friendly. “Actually, I was just thinking... you’re good at Potions, right?”
He nodded. “I guess? I mean, yeah, I’ve always done well in class. Why?”
“Well,” you said slowly, leaning in slightly, “I was wondering if you could help me with something. It’s just a tiny matter, really.”
Jaehyun blinked, clearly intrigued. “Uh, sure. What do you need?”
“I’m looking for a book,” you explained. “One that has information about antidotes for Amortentia.”
His eyebrows shot up in surprise. “Amortentia?”
You nodded, trying to keep your expression casual. “Yeah. I, uh... just need to look up something for a project.”
Jaehyun seemed to consider this for a moment before his face lit up. “Oh! I know exactly what you need.” He walked over to a nearby shelf, scanning the rows of books with practiced ease before pulling one out. He handed it to you, flipping it open to the right chapter. “Here. Chapter 14, page 237. It has a detailed section on love potions.”
You took the book from him, relief flooding through you. “Thank you so much, Jaehyun. This is exactly what I needed.”
Jaehyun hesitated for a moment, then cleared his throat. “If you want... I could help you with the brewing process. It’s tricky, and, well, I’ve done similar antidotes before.”
You practically jumped at the offer, your enthusiasm catching him off guard. “Really? You’d help me?”
“Of course,” he said, smiling shyly. “When do you want to start?”
“As soon as possible,” you said quickly. “This is kind of... urgent.”
“Alright,” Jaehyun agreed, his smile growing more confident. “Let’s meet in the Potions classroom after dinner. I’ll bring the ingredients we’ll need.”
You nodded, clutching the book tightly. “Thank you, Jaehyun. Really. You’re a lifesaver.”
He rubbed the back of his neck again, his blush returning. “It’s no problem. I’m happy to help.”
With a grateful smile, you hurried out of the library. You finally had a plan—and someone to help you execute it.
After dinner, you made your way to the Potions classroom, your nerves buzzing. As you stepped inside, you saw Jaehyun already at one of the workbenches, his sleeves rolled up and his hands deftly working.
When he noticed you, he offered a small smile and gestured for you to sit next to him.
“You’re early,” you said, setting your bag down on the bench.
“Wanted to get a head start,” Jaehyun replied, his voice warm. “I figured the quicker we get this done, the better.”
You nodded, settling into the chair beside him. As you looked around the dimly lit classroom, a thought occurred to you. “Is it even okay for us to be here after class hours?”
Jaehyun chuckled softly, shaking his head. “Don’t worry. Professor Slughorn lets me stay after hours pretty often. He says it’s good-spirited of me to practice brewing and experiment.”
You raised an eyebrow. “Good-spirited, huh? That’s... surprisingly nice of him.”
Jaehyun shrugged, still focused on grinding the ingredients in front of him. “He’s not so bad. As long as you don’t blow up the classroom, he’s pretty lenient.”
You laughed lightly at that, feeling a bit of the tension in your chest ease. As Jaehyun began measuring out a vial of liquid and carefully adding it to the cauldron, you watched him work.
“Is there anything I can do to help?” you asked, not wanting to just sit idly.
He glanced at you, his eyes crinkling slightly in a smile. “Sure. Can you chop those gurdyroots? They need to be sliced thinly—about this size.” He held up a perfectly cut piece as an example.
“Got it,” you said, grabbing a knife and the roots. You carefully started cutting, doing your best to match the size Jaehyun had shown you.
Occasionally, Jaehyun would give you instructions or correct something you were doing, his tone always patient and encouraging.
“You’re doing great,” he said at one point, glancing over at your neatly sliced gurdyroots. “I might have to recruit you as my brewing partner from now on.”
You snorted. “Don’t get too ahead of yourself. Potions and I have a... complicated relationship.”
Jaehyun laughed, his warm, boyish chuckle filling the room. “Well, you’re doing fine tonight. Just keep that up.”
The antidote was slowly coming together, the cauldron emitting a faint shimmer as the ingredients combined.
“Do you think this will work?” you asked softly after a while, watching the potion swirl in the cauldron.
Jaehyun looked at you, his expression serious yet kind. “If we follow the instructions exactly, it should. Potions like this are tricky, but I’m confident we can pull it off. And if something goes wrong, we’ll try again.”
His reassurance eased some of your worry, and you nodded. “Thank you, Jaehyun. I mean it. You didn’t have to help me, but you are.”
He shrugged modestly, his cheeks tinged pink. “It’s nothing. Besides, it’s kind of nice working on something like this with someone else for a change.”
You smiled at that, feeling a bit lighter for the first time in days.
After some time the potion was finally done. The cauldron shimmered with a silvery glow, and Jaehyun carefully ladled some of the antidote into a small flask. He corked it tightly and handed it to you, his smile warm but cautious.
“Here,” he said, placing it gently in your hands.
You stared at the flask, relief flooding through you. “Thank you, Jaehyun,” you said, looking up at him with a grateful smile. Without thinking, you leaned in and hugged him tightly.
Jaehyun stiffened for a moment, clearly caught off guard, but quickly relaxed and awkwardly patted your back. “You don’t have to thank me. Really.”
“I do,” you said, pulling back and clutching the flask to your chest. “I owe you one. Big time.”
Before he could respond, you turned and hurried out of the classroom, determination burning in your chest.
The Great Hall was buzzing with the usual hum of students talking and studying. You scanned the room until your eyes landed on Hyejin, sitting at a corner table with books and parchment spread out in front of her. She looked like she was drowning in notes, a quill tucked behind her ear as she scribbled furiously.
You approached her, sliding into the seat across from her. She glanced up, her brow furrowed in confusion until she saw the flask in your hand.
“You’ve got it?” she asked, her eyes widening slightly.
You nodded, setting the flask on the table between you. “I’ve got the solution. Literally.”
Hyejin’s tense expression softened, and she let out a small sigh of relief. “That’s good. Really good.”
You noticed her Herbology textbook then, along with her chaotic notes. The scribbled diagrams of plants and ingredients were barely legible, and she had several crossed-out answers on her parchment. She caught you looking and groaned, slumping back in her chair.
“Don’t judge me. Herbology is not my strong suit,” she muttered, rubbing her temples.
“Do you need help?” you asked, raising an eyebrow.
Hyejin gave a humorless laugh. “Desperately. Professor Sprout’s quizzes are impossible, and if I don’t pass the next one, I’m doomed.”
Smiling, you reached into your bag and pulled out your own Herbology notes. “Here. These might help.”
Her eyes widened as she saw the neat, color-coded pages you laid in front of her. “Oh my God, you’re an angel,” she said dramatically, grabbing them like they were a lifeline.
You laughed, leaning over to point out some of the key points. “Okay, this section on Venomous Tentacula—just remember that its sap is only dangerous when exposed to direct sunlight. Write that down.”
“Thank you,” Hyejin said softly after a while, looking up from her notes. “For this. And... for everything else.”
“You’ve already done plenty to help me,” you replied with a small smile. “It’s the least I can do.”
--
The next day, you sat on your bed, nervously fiddling with the hem of your robes. The weight of what was about to happen pressed heavily on your chest. You had given the antidote to Hyejin that morning, entrusting her with the task of breaking the spell that had bound Heeseung to Yoonhee. She’d reassured you with a confident smile that she could slip the potion into his drink during lunch, all without raising suspicion.
You could have been there yourself to witness it. You could have stood nearby, watching from the shadows to make sure everything went as planned. But the truth was, you were scared—terrified, even.
You couldn’t face Heeseung. Not now. Not after everything that had happened. What if the antidote didn’t work? What if he still didn’t feel anything for you, even after the spell was broken? What if... what if he hated you?
The thoughts spiraled in your mind as you sat there, staring at the wall of your dormitory. You felt ridiculous for being so anxious, but the idea of seeing him again, of looking into his eyes and not knowing what you’d find there, was almost too much to bear.
So you’d chosen to wait. To stay here, in the safety of your room, and let Hyejin handle it. She’d promised to relay everything to you afterward, and you trusted her.
A soft knock at the door startled you out of your thoughts.
“It’s just me,” your roommate said, poking her head inside. “You okay? You’ve been in here all morning.”
You nodded quickly, forcing a smile. “Yeah, just... not feeling great today. I think I’ll skip lunch.”
She gave you a sympathetic look before leaving, and you sighed in relief once the door closed again.
The waiting was unbearable. Minutes felt like hours as you sat there, your mind playing out every possible scenario. You tried to distract yourself by flipping through a book, but the words blurred together on the page.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity, there was a knock at the door again—this time more urgent.
You jumped up, your heart racing as you opened it to find Hyejin standing there, slightly out of breath.
“It’s done,” she said simply, stepping inside and closing the door behind her.
You stared at her, your throat suddenly dry. “And? Did it work?”
Hyejin nodded, a small smile tugging at her lips. “It worked. I saw it in his eyes the moment the potion broke. Heeseung... he looked so confused at first, like he didn’t know where he was or what was happening. But then Yoonhee tried to cling to him, and he pushed her away.”
Your breath hitched. “He did?”
“Yeah. And he asked her what she’d done to him. She tried to play innocent, but you could tell she was panicking. I don’t think anyone else noticed—it wasn’t exactly a scene—but Heeseung wasn’t buying her act. He left pretty quickly after that, though. I think he needed time to process everything.”
You sank back onto your bed, your mind reeling. Relief, hope, and dread all swirled together in your chest. Heeseung was free. He was finally free.
But now what?
Hyejin sat beside you, placing a reassuring hand on your shoulder. “Give him some time,” she said softly, as if reading your thoughts. “He’s going to come looking for you. I’m sure of it.”
You nodded, your hands trembling slightly as you gripped the edge of your bed. All you could do now was wait—and hope that when Heeseung finally found you, the boy you’d fallen for was still there, waiting for you too.
You didn’t leave your room for days. The sick, uncomfortable feeling in your body refused to go away. It was as if the weight of everything—your heartbreak, the fear—had finally caught up to you, pinning you to your bed and draining you of energy.
Your housemates noticed. They brought you food, their class notes, and even small trinkets to cheer you up, but nothing seemed to work. You mumbled thanks to them, forced weak smiles when they tried to joke, but the truth was, you felt numb.
Hyejin came by often, sitting on the edge of your bed and filling you in on everything happening outside the confines of your room.
“Yoonhee got caught,” she said one afternoon, her tone tinged with satisfaction. “Slughorn found out she’d been brewing Amortentia, and she’s been given detention for weeks. There’s even talk about revoking her Hogsmeade privileges for the rest of the year.”
You managed a faint smile at that. “Good. She deserves it.”
Hyejin nodded firmly. “She does. And honestly, people are starting to avoid her now. Her little group of friends isn’t as tight as it used to be. Guess that’s what happens when everyone finds out you’ve been manipulating someone with a love potion.”
Your smile faded as the conversation shifted to Heeseung.
“And... Heeseung,” Hyejin started carefully, watching your reaction. “He’s been... different.”
You stiffened slightly but said nothing, letting her continue.
“He’s been asking about you. Like, constantly. He’s desperate to find you. I think he’s even checked the library three times in one day,” she said with a small laugh, though it didn’t reach her eyes. “He’s back to being... well, himself. But he looks miserable, and honestly, he’s really worried about you.”
Your chest tightened. You wanted to feel relieved, but instead, the sick feeling only deepened. You hated how much you still cared, how even hearing about Heeseung made your heart twist painfully.
“I don’t know, Hyejin,” you whispered, your voice hoarse. “I just… I can’t see him right now.”
Hyejin sighed softly, reaching out to squeeze your hand. “I get it. I do. Take all the time you need. Just... don’t shut yourself out completely, okay?”
You didn’t respond, simply looking down at your blanket as Hyejin stayed with you a little longer.
It wasn’t until one evening, when the common room was quiet and your dorm was empty, that you finally let yourself cry. The frustration, the sadness, the guilt—it all poured out of you in heavy, silent sobs as you clutched your pillow.
You were happy Yoonhee had faced punishment. You were relieved that Heeseung was free from her influence. But you were also scared—scared of facing him, scared of what he would say, and scared of how much you still loved him, even after everything.
Before you knew it, the day of the annual Christmas Ball at Hogwarts had arrived. Normally, you would’ve been excited. Your mother had even sent you a beautiful golden gown, one that shimmered like sunlight when you first pulled it out of the box. You’d twirled in front of the mirror, imagining how the soft fabric would float around you as you danced.
But now? Now you had lost all reason to go.
The thought of attending made your stomach churn. The idea of walking into that grand hall, of possibly running into him—it was too much.
Unfortunately, your housemates had other plans. They weren’t about to let you stay locked up in your dorm forever, wallowing in shame and fear. After days of patient encouragement, they finally pulled you out of bed, insisting you at least attend a few classes. Begrudgingly, you relented, figuring it would stop their nagging if nothing else.
The morning started off easy enough. You didn’t have any classes with Heeseung today, which gave you some peace of mind. Still, you couldn’t shake the paranoia that he might show up out of nowhere.
And, honestly, that paranoia wasn’t entirely unfounded.
It was as if Heeseung had a built-in radar for you. More than once, you caught a glimpse of his dark hair in the corridors, his eyes scanning the crowds as if he were searching for someone. For you.
Every time, you ducked behind corners or slipped into empty classrooms to avoid him. It was harder than you expected, given his persistence. You had to wonder if he’d memorized your schedule or something.
By the time your last class ended, you were exhausted—not from the lessons, but from all the hiding and running. You slumped into your seat at dinner, barely touching your food as your housemates chattered excitedly about the ball.
“You’re still coming tonight, right?” one of them asked, nudging your shoulder.
You hesitated. “I don’t know...”
“Oh, come on,” another chimed in. “Your mom sent you that gorgeous dress! You have to go.”
You sighed, poking at the mashed potatoes on your plate. “I’ll think about it.”
But even as you said it, you doubted you’d actually go.
As the evening drew closer, you found yourself back in your dorm, staring at the golden gown hanging from your wardrobe. It truly was stunning, the kind of dress you’d dreamed of wearing to an event like this.
For a moment, you almost let yourself imagine it—dancing under the enchanted ceiling, laughter and music filling the air.
You shook your head, turning away from the dress. You weren’t ready for that.
Just as you were about to crawl back into bed, however, your dormitory door burst open, and your housemates barged in with determined looks.
“Nope, we’re not letting you sit this one out,” one of them declared, grabbing your arm and pulling you to your feet.
“What are you—”
“Listen,” another interrupted, “you don’t have to stay the whole night. Just come for a little bit. Wear the dress, take a few pictures, and if you’re really miserable, you can leave. Deal?”
You opened your mouth to argue, but the hopeful, pleading looks on their faces stopped you. They just wanted you to have fun, to feel normal again, even if only for a little while.
“...Fine,” you muttered, earning cheers from the group.
Before you knew it, they were helping you into the golden gown, fixing your hair and makeup, and hyping you up like you were royalty.
“You look amazing,” one of them said, beaming as they adjusted the final curl in your hair.
You didn’t feel amazing, but you forced a small smile.
Your housemates dragged you down the corridors toward the grand hall, their excitement became contagious. Despite your initial reluctance, you found yourself starting to feel... a little excited, too.
When you finally stepped into the grand hall, your breath hitched. The space was utterly transformed, shimmering with holiday magic. Snowflakes drifted lazily from the enchanted ceiling, disappearing just before they touched the ground. The chandeliers sparkled like stars, and the tables were adorned with golden centerpieces. Everything looked like it had been plucked from a dream.
But then you saw him.
Heeseung.
He was standing near one of the refreshment tables, laughing softly at something a fellow Slytherin said. Emerald green suit, tailored to perfection. His hair, slicked back, revealed his sharp jawline and those intense eyes. But as your gaze lingered on him, you noticed something else—he looked tired.
It wasn’t until he glanced your way and his eyes locked onto yours that you realized you’d been staring.
Your heart jumped in your chest, and before you could even think about turning away, he was moving. Heeseung’s long strides cut through the crowd like a magnet pulled him toward you.
“Oh no,” you squeaked, panic bubbling in your chest.
You instinctively turned to your friends for help, but all you saw were their grinning faces and two very obvious thumbs up.
Ah, so they planned this.
You shot them a silent glare, but before you could even consider fleeing, a firm hand grabbed yours. Heeseung’s grip was gentle but insistent as he pulled you away.
“H-Heeseung—!” you started, but he wasn’t listening.
He didn’t stop until he’d guided you to a quiet corner of the hall, away from the prying eyes of your fellow students. The noise of the ball faded into the background as he turned to face you, his hands still holding yours.
Your breath caught.
Up close, he looked even more handsome, but those tired eyes, paired with the slight downturn of his lips, made your chest ache. He looked... vulnerable.
For a moment, neither of you spoke. He just stared at you, taking in every detail—the golden gown that hugged your figure, the way your hair framed your face, the faint shimmer of your lips.
“You look beautiful,” he said softly, his voice hoarse, almost as if he hadn’t used it in days.
You blinked, momentarily stunned. You weren’t sure how to respond, your thoughts still scrambling to catch up with the fact that he was here, holding your hands, looking at you like that.
Finally, you managed to mumble, “You look... good too.”
The corner of his mouth twitched up into a small, tired smile. “Thanks,” he said, his thumb brushing lightly over your knuckles.
Heeseung’s gaze softened as he opened his mouth to speak. “Y/N, I’m so sorry. For—”
You cut him off, shaking your head. “No, Heeseung. Stop. It wasn’t your fault. It was Yoonhee’s. You didn’t ask for any of this.”
He blinked, stunned by your words, but his expression quickly shifted to one of concern. “Then... why?” he asked softly, his voice trembling. “Why have you been avoiding me?”
You looked down, biting your lip, unable to meet his gaze. But he wasn’t having it.
Gently, he tilted your chin up with his fingers, forcing your eyes to lock with his. His touch was soft but firm, his eyes desperate. “Please,” he murmured, his voice low and pleading. “Please look at me, Y/N. I need to see you. All of you. I need to understand.”
You swallowed hard, his intensity making it difficult to breathe. Your heart pounded in your chest as you searched for the right words.
“I...” You hesitated, but his unwavering gaze gave you the courage to continue. “I was scared, Heeseung. Scared that... you wouldn’t like me anymore. That whatever we had before was gone. And it hurt. It hurt so much that I didn’t know how to face you. I felt so... drained. So tired. I had no energy for anything. It was like everything good was just gone.”
He listened intently, his thumb brushing gently against your cheek as tears spilled from your eyes. He didn’t interrupt, didn’t try to justify anything. He just... listened. Like he always did.
When you finally finished, a silence hung between you, heavy.
And then, without warning, Heeseung wrapped his arms around you, pulling you tightly against his chest.
You froze for a moment, startled, before slowly relaxing into his embrace. His scent—familiar and comforting—washed over you, and you felt like you could breathe again.
“Baby...” he whispered into your hair, his voice thick with emotion. “I would have waited forever for you to feel okay again. Because you’re the only woman I love in this world. The only one I’ve ever loved. And nothing—nothing—is ever going to change that.”
Your breath hitched as his words sank in, the sincerity in his tone breaking down the walls you’d built around your heart.
“I want a future with you,” he continued, pulling back just enough to look into your eyes. His hands framed your face, his thumbs gently wiping away the tears that had fallen. “I don’t care about anyone else. I never did. It’s always been you. Always.”
His words left you speechless, your heart pounding so loudly you were sure he could hear it.
“I love you,” he said, his voice steady and sure. “And I’ll spend the rest of my life proving that to you if I have to.”
Tears spilled down your cheeks as you nodded, a shaky smile breaking through. “I love you too, Heeseung,” you whispered, your voice barely audible.
Heeseung’s lips curved into a soft smile, his eyes glistening with relief and adoration. Without another word, he leaned in slowly, giving you plenty of time to pull away if you wanted. But you didn’t. Instead, you closed the gap between you, meeting him halfway as his lips pressed against yours in a kiss.
Your heart raced as your hands instinctively reaching up to grip the front of his emerald green suit. His arms wrapped securely around your waist, pulling you closer, like he was afraid to let you go. The kiss was slow, deliberate, as if he was reassuring you that this was real, that he wasn’t going anywhere.
When you finally pulled apart, both of you breathless, his forehead rested against yours. Heeseung’s smile widened, his thumbs gently rubbing circles against your sides.
“I’ve been waiting to do that for so long,” he murmured, his voice low and filled with affection. “And I’ll never stop, as long as you let me.”
You laughed softly, your cheeks warming as you looked up at him. “You’re so dramatic,” you teased, though your tone held no malice.
“Maybe,” he admitted with a playful smirk, brushing a strand of hair out of your face.
But before either of you could say anything more, a loud burst of laughter echoed from the main hall, reminding you both that you weren’t exactly in a private setting.
Heeseung chuckled, glancing over his shoulder before looking back at you. “Come on,” he said, grabbing your hand. “Let’s go somewhere quieter. I’m not done with you yet.”
You raised an eyebrow, your lips quirking up. “Oh? And where exactly are we going?”
He grinned mischievously, tugging you gently along. “You’ll see,” he said, his tone light and teasing.
Heeseung led you through the dimly lit corridors, weaving between tapestries and statues until you reached a secluded alcove. It was quiet, away from the bustling energy of the Great Hall, and the faint sound of music and laughter felt like it was miles away.
Leaning casually against the stone wall, Heeseung tugged you closer by your hand, his other arm snaking around your waist as he grinned down at you. “Now this,” he murmured, “is more like it.”
You couldn’t help but giggle, feeling a bit giddy as he twirled a strand of your hair between his fingers. The way he looked at you, like you were the only person who mattered, sent your heart racing.
Before you could respond, you found yourself leaning up, your lips brushing against his in a kiss that was soft at first, but quickly deepened. His hand tightened on your hip as he pulled you flush against him, and you reached up, tangling your fingers into his perfectly styled hair, making it deliciously messy.
Heeseung groaned softly against your lips, the sound sending a thrill through you as his hand slid to the small of your back, holding you steady. The kiss was everything—intense, like he was making up for all the lost time, for all the days you’d been apart.
When you finally pulled back, both of you breathless and slightly disheveled, he let out a low chuckle. “There goes my hair,” he teased, his voice husky as he glanced at you, his lips still red from your kiss.
You smirked, smoothing down the strands you’d mussed up. “I think it looks better this way,” you quipped, earning a playful roll of his eyes.
“Yeah?” he said, leaning in to nuzzle his nose against yours. “Well, if it makes you happy, I guess I’ll allow it.”
Heeseung's playful nature shone through as he leaned in, his nose brushing against yours, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "I could get used to this," he whispered, his breath warm and tickling against your skin. "You looking all beautiful and mussed up."
You smiled, feeling a rush of excitement at his words. "Well, if you like it, I might just keep it this way," you replied, a hint of challenge in your voice. "Although, I think I might enjoy seeing the look on your face if I went back to being perfectly put together."
With a playful roll of his eyes, Heeseung leaned in again, his lips meeting yours in a gentle kiss. But this time, his hands went to your dress, his fingers trailing along the neckline, subtly revealing more of your skin.
You giggled into the kiss, a sound of both pleasure and surprise. "Naughty boy," you teased, trying to hit his hand away, but Heeseung was unmoved, his focus solely on you and the kiss.
His hands continued to tease, gently tugging at the fabric of your dress, revealing more of your shoulders and collarbone.
"You know I can't resist you," he murmured against your lips, his voice low and seductive. "Especially when you look like this."
"I know you can't," you replied, your voice soft and filled with affection. "And I'm glad I have this effect on you." You could feel his fingers trace the curve of your waist.
Heeseung's eyes lit up as he saw the skin that had been revealed. With a smile that held both mischief and anticipation, he leaned in, his lips grazing the newly exposed skin.
He started with soft kisses, his lips brushing against your neck, his breath warm and enticing, a gentle tease, tracing the curve of your collarbone.
"You smell so good," he whispered, his voice hoarse with desire. "Like honey and spice."
His hands rested gently on your waist, his touch firm, as if you were something delicate he couldn’t risk breaking.
“You’re perfect,” he murmured softly, his voice barely above a whisper as his lips pressed a lingering kiss to the base of your neck. “Do you know that?”
His words made your cheeks flush, and you shook your head slightly, your hands gripping his shoulders for support. “I’m not—”
“You are,” he interrupted, his tone so sure that it silenced any protest you could muster. His lips returned to your skin, brushing over your shoulder where the fabric of your gown had slipped just slightly.
“I could do this forever,” he whispered against your skin, his voice carrying a hint of a smile. “Just... adore you.”
You shivered at his words, warmth pooling in your chest as you gazed at him. There was nothing rushed or impatient about him—just pure affection, as though he was savoring every moment with you.
“You’re impossible,” you mumbled, but the smile on your face betrayed the teasing edge in your voice.
Heeseung looked at you then, his dark eyes filled with so much love it made your breath catch. “And yet, here I am, completely yours,” he said with a boyish grin, leaning in to press a kiss to the tip of your nose, making you laugh softly.
A sudden scream sliced through the moment, making you both freeze. You turned to find Yoonhee standing in the hallway, her eyes blazing with rage, her hands clenched into fists at her sides, hatred radiating from every inch of her.
You quickly adjusted the straps of your dress, feeling a flush of embarrassment but finding comfort in the way Heeseung immediately wrapped his arms around you, holding you close.
"Yoonhee," Heeseung said, his voice calm but firm, his body still shielding you. "What are you doing here?"
She didn’t answer right away. Instead, she stepped forward, her heels clicking sharply against the stone floor as she walked toward you. "You," she spat, her voice seething with venom. "You ruined everything. You always ruin everything."
The words stung more than you expected, and you felt yourself shrinking back, but Heeseung’s grip tightened around you, giving you strength.
"If you didn`t exist," she continued, her voice rising. "Everything would have been perfect. Heeseung would have been mine. I would have had everything I wanted."
You shook your head, unable to comprehend the depth of her bitterness. "Yoonhee, What are—"
But she wasn’t listening. Her gaze never left you, her eyes full of hatred as she took another step toward you. "You don't deserve him. You’re not good enough. You’re nothing compared to me."
Heeseung, his expression hardening, finally stepped in to talk. "Enough, Yoonhee."
Her glare shifted to him, but there was no remorse in her eyes. Instead, she let out a bitter laugh. "Oh, really? You think you can just shut me up?" She turned back to you, her face twisted with anger. "You think you can steal him from me and everything will be fine? You don’t know him like I do."
You swallowed, your throat tightening at her words, but Heeseung’s presence kept you steady. His voice, low and firm, cut through her words. "You’re wrong, Yoonhee. You’ve always been wrong. This isn’t about you, and it never was. I’m with her because I want to be. You’re the one who needs to let go."
For a moment, there was silence, the tension thick between the three of you. Yoonhee stood there, fuming, but Heeseung didn’t flinch.
"You can’t do this, Heeseung," she hissed, her voice full of desperation now. "You don’t even know what you’re giving up. You think she cares about you? She’s just playing you like everyone else. She’s not even worthy of you."
Heeseung’s expression softened, but there was no uncertainty in his eyes. "You’re wrong, Yoonhee. She’s everything to me, and I’m not walking away from her."
Yoonhee’s shrill scream filled the room, and before anyone could react, she lunged at you. Her hands shot out, grabbing your arm and yanking you away from Heeseung with surprising strength. You stumbled back, her nails digging into your skin as she tried to shove you down. Her eyes were wild with fury, and for a moment, you froze, too stunned by the violence of her attack to respond.
But then, something inside you snapped. All the weeks of anger, hurt, and confusion flooded back. The betrayal, the humiliation, the endless nights of crying and wondering what went wrong—it all surged up at once. This was the girl who had stolen Heeseung right out of your life. The one who had used Amortentia to control him, to warp his feelings, to hurt you. The one who had made you feel small and insignificant.
No, you wouldn’t let her do this anymore.
With a fierce yell, you shoved her off, your fist flying instinctively. The punch connected with her cheek with a satisfying thud, the force sending her staggering backward. Her eyes widened in shock, hand flying to her face as she stumbled and almost fell to the ground.
Yoonhee gaped at you, her breath coming in short, furious gasps. "You... You bitch!" she snarled, voice shaking with rage.
But you stood your ground, heart racing, every ounce of your being wanting to scream and lash out. You felt the heat of your own anger, the adrenaline coursing through your veins. You weren’t backing down anymore. "No," you said, your voice trembling but fierce, "you don't get to do this. You don't get to ruin everything for me and Heeseung. You don’t get to play with people’s feelings."
Yoonhee glared at you, hands trembling with fury. "You think you’ve won, don’t you?" Her voice was a low hiss. "You really think he’s yours? He’s not. He’ll always come back to me."
Heeseung stepped forward, voice cutting through the tension. "You’re done. I’ve told you before. I’m with her, not you."
Yoonhee looked between the two of you, her face flushing red with humiliation. The silence that followed was deafening. She was seething, but there was no more fight left in her. She stood there for a moment, glaring at you, and then, with a final look of disdain, she turned on her heel and stormed away.
You let out a breath, feeling your body go limp, the tension draining from your limbs. Heeseung moved towards you immediately, his arms wrapping around you as he pulled you close.
"Are you okay?" he murmured, his voice soft and concerned.
You nodded slowly, though your heart was still racing from the confrontation. "I’m okay," you whispered, your voice hoarse. "I just... I don’t know what came over me."
Heeseung pulled back slightly, cupping your face in his hands and looking into your eyes. "You did what you had to do," he said gently. "You’ve been through so much because of her."
"And besides I like seeing that side of you," he said, his voice warm and genuine. "The way you stood up for yourself."
You smiled, feeling a rush of warmth fill your chest at his words.
"I’m proud of you," he whispered, brushing a stray lock of hair from your face.
You held him tighter, feeling grateful for everything that had brought you to this point. "I love you," you whispered.
"I love you too," he replied.
a/n: i feel emotional now
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klaeusmoved · 1 year ago
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Klaus is the kid in ethics class trying to figure out how to drive the trolley just right so everyone dies
ㅤㅤ❛  well, we wouldn't want anyone feeling left out, now would we? a swift death is a gift i only give when i'm feeling particularly benevolent, though certain people don't appreciate the offer when i make it. ❜
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melanchoire · 1 month ago
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THE MIDNIGHT DETOUR ──── yu jimin
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── ( 🌸 ) the constant jabs and petty games with your nemesis karina reach a boiling point at a party, culminating in a bathroom encounter where heated arguments give way to an even hotter, forbidden connection you never saw coming.
pairing. dom!popular girl!karina x sub!riival!fem reader
warning(s). bitting, degradation, fingering, hate sex???, making out, thigh riding.
word count. 4,8k
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the fluorescent lights of the school hallway hummed, a monotonous soundtrack to the daily drama unfolding around you. you gripped your textbooks tighter, the worn covers offering a small comfort as you navigated the crowded space. ot wasn't just the sheer volume of bodies that made it feel like a minefield; it was them. the “ae-girls” as the student body had so aptly nicknamed karina's group. they moved through the corridors like royalty, their beauty a blinding force field that seemed to repel anyone who dared to stray too close.
you'd seen it happen with other groups before, the casual cruelty of popularity. but with karina and her crew, it felt different. more personal, more... calculated. you were no stranger to loud, boisterous friend groups. your own friends were certainly a handful, their humor sometimes landing with a thud outside your inner circle. but karina's group was something else entirely. it was a finely tuned symphony of subtle jabs, barely concealed snickers, and outright antagonism.
the “ae-girls” were a constant, irritating hum in your otherwise relatively quiet existence. you knew, rationally, that cliques and social dynamics were the lifeblood of high school, but you couldn't shake the feeling that they were deliberately, maliciously, targeting you.
ever since the day you'd first bumped into karina —literally, colliding mid-hallway, sending textbooks scattering across the floor— there had been a palpable tension, a current of electricity charged with something you couldn't quite name. it wasn’t just the typical high school drama. it felt as though they were actively trying to burrow under your skin, to find that one loose thread that would unravel you entirely.
the whispers were the first thing you noticed. walking past the ae-girls, you’d catch snippets of conversation, their eyes darting in your direction, their lips twitching with suppressed laughter. it was a performance of complicity, a silent communication that excluded you, that made you feel like the butt of some private joke you could never understand.
then there was winter. her method was more physical, a jarring disruption to your daily routine. you remember the chill of that particular day; the fluorescent lights of the hallway hummed as you walked, heading to math class, minding your own business, reviewing quadratic formulas in your head. she walked with a deliberate swagger, her blonde hair swinging around her face like a halo of mischief and suddenly, a sharp, unexpected impact sent you staggering. winter, all sleek lines and effortless cool, had deliberately slammed her shoulder into yours, a calculated, almost predatory move. you flinched, the force of the blow rattling your teeth.
“watch it.” you’d muttered, more surprised than angered.
winter just smirked, a tiny, almost petulant curve of her lips. “maybe you should be more aware of your surroundings.” her voice was a low, velvety purr, that made you shiver and not in a good way. she barely glanced back as she continued walking, her laughter mingling with giselle and ningning who were on her side.
and then there were giselle and ningning, the twin guardians of silent judgment, their gazes like a brand. you’d learned to recognize their looks, the heavy scrutiny that followed you down the hallway, the air thick with unspoken criticism. it felt like being dissected under a microscope, every movement, every imperfection magnified and analyzed.
you always see them in the mornings when students enter school, clustered near the lockers, bathed in the cold light.
giselle and ningning, their dark eyes flitting over the crowd, scanning for… what? targets? you swallowed, feeling the familiar pinprick of unease as their gazes landed on you, lingered, and then, with a barely perceptible smirk, moved on. it was always like this. they never said anything, but their looks spoke volumes, dissecting you, judging you with a silent, almost telepathic precision that made you want to crawl out of your own skin.
you remember one time, you were heading to the library. your footsteps echoed on the polished floor; the heavy silence was interrupted as you noticed them, they were in the corner talking with their heads down. when you passed by they raised their heads at the same time and stared, giving you a look that would curdle milk.
“what are you staring at?” you’d asked, your voice a little sharper than you’d intended. you stopped right in front of them.
giselle and ningning exchanged a look, a silent conversation that seemed to happen before your very eyes. they said nothing, their expression unchanging, a mask of detached disapproval. then, without another word, they simply turned and walked away, leaving you feeling exposed and foolish.
but karina... she was the epicenter of it all. you saw her, leaning against the lockers, her expression unreadable. she was breathtakingly beautiful, her features sharp and elegant, framed by the dark curtain of her hair. it was an unfair level of beauty, the kind that stopped you in your tracks, that made you forget everything else for a fleeting, agonizing moment. her beauty was a weapon, you thought, sharper and more dangerous than any of the subtle jabs her friends threw your way.
and it wasn't just her looks. it was the way she carried herself, the confidence that radiated from her like a heat wave. it was her voice, low and melodic, with a subtle rasp that sent a shiver down your spine despite yourself. you hated that voice. you hated the way it could draw you in, even as it was dripping with sarcasm and disdain. you hated the way it made you feel.
she was the one who always escalated, who threw herself into the fray, whether it was a confrontation with winter’s casual cruelty or an argument about giselle and ningning's incessant staring. she wasn't just a bystander; she was an active participant, a conductor of the symphony of your discomfort. you had plenty of fights with her, both verbal and physical, though they never quite got violent.
you remembered the first time you had spoken to her. it had been over a misplaced library book, a clumsy misunderstanding that had felt utterly catastrophic at the time. you had tried, stammering and flustered, to explain the situation, but karina had interrupted, her voice cool and laced with barely concealed amusement. “you always make such a mess.” she had said, looking at you with those piercing, dark eyes. “it's almost impressive.” you had been mortified, your cheeks burning with shame and anger. it wasn't just the words, but the way she said them, with a hint of something… else. something that you couldn’t quite place but that made your stomach churn in a way that felt both awful and exhilarating.
or the time when winter bumped into you, you'd been about to yell at winter but karina was there, stepping in front of winter. but instead of offering you a kind look of concern, she followed it with a sharp glance at you, a small, almost imperceptible curve to her lips that made you wonder if she was secretly mocking you even as she appeared to defend you. “you need to watch where you're going, clumsy.” she’d said, her voice laced with a kind of mocking amusement. her gaze was intense, and you found yourself inexplicably drawn to the rich depths of her dark eyes.
“i wasn't the one who bumped into someone!” you retorted, your hands balling into fists.
karina leaned closer, her breath fanning against your cheek. “maybe if you weren't so busy daydreaming, you would have seen her coming.” she said, her tone dripping with condescension. the way she talked to you was so infuriating, but her voice... it was like a melody, a song that somehow wrapped around you and made it difficult for you to think. you could have listened to her speak for hours.
when giselle and ningning’s silent stares became unbearable, and you dared to call them out, it was karina again, her voice cutting through the tension. “leave her alone, girls. don’t waste your time on her.” and again, that look, that strange mix of disdain and something… unreadable.
it was infuriating. it was mesmerizing. and it was, you had to admit, utterly confusing. you hated the way karina's presence could disrupt your carefully constructed world, the way she could make your heart pound in your chest with a mix of anger and... something else you didn't quite understand. it wasn't just that she was beautiful, it was the way she seemed to see you, to pierce through your carefully constructed facade and to see something hidden beneath the surface.
today, as you walked past her, you kept your gaze fixed ahead, trying to pretend she wasn't there, yet you could feel her eyes on you, heavy and intense. you could feel the faint warmth rising to your cheeks, and you hated it. you hated the way she could make you feel like a teenager again, all awkward and flustered. and yet, deep down, nestled within the layers of frustration and anger, there was a different feeling stirring, a confusing flutter that felt dangerously close to... not hate.
you wanted to scream at her, to demand an explanation, to ask her why she treated you this way. but the words caught in your throat, swallowed by the strange ache that pulsated beneath your skin. you wanted to hate her. you wanted to erase her from your mind. but you knew, with a certainty that both terrified and excited you, that was impossible. because, beneath the layers of annoyance and antagonism, a strange and unnerving tension had begun to simmer, a tension that felt like a tightrope walk between loathing and something else entirely - something that felt incredibly dangerous. and incredibly, impossibly, alluring.
you wanted to hate her. but you were starting to wonder if you were already too far gone. the way those dark eyes held yours just a little too long, the way her voice wrapped around your name with a subtle rasp… it was starting to feel personal. and that, more than anything else, was terrifying.
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the bass thrummed through the floor, vibrating up your legs and into your chest. it was the kind of party where the music was loud enough to drown out thought, where the air hung thick with sweat and the scent of cheap beer. around you, your friends were a cacophony of boisterous laughter and half-finished stories, their words washing over you like meaningless static. you nodded along, offered the occasional ‘yeah’ or ‘no way’ but your attention was elsewhere, a magnetic pull you couldn't quite ignore.
karina.
there she was, across the crowded living room, tucked away in a shadowed corner like a stray star. alone. it was a sight so incongruous with the image you had built of her – surrounded by her ‘ae-girls,’ her loyal pack – that it almost made you stop breathing. she was leaning against the wall, her gaze fixed on something beyond the party, a melancholic air clinging to her like the smoke from a forgotten cigarette.
a smirk played on your lips. this was it. an opportunity, maybe even an invitation, to finally cut through the layers of manufactured arrogance she wore like expensive perfume. you hadn't come here tonight expecting anything more than the usual awkward small talk and forced laughter, but the universe, in its twisted sense of humor, had presented you with this.
you excused yourself from your group, their chatter fading into the background as you navigated the sea of bodies. each step you took felt deliberate, a purposeful march towards a confrontation that you knew, deep down, you craved. when you finally reached her, the space between you felt charged, the air crackling with the unspoken history you shared.
“the queen bee without her hive. playing bad all by yourself, are you?” the words were out of your mouth before you could bite them back, a challenge laced with the bitterness you’d come to associate with her. you stood a few feet away, arms crossed, trying to look unaffected by the way her eyes snapped up and locked with yours. those eyes, you were sure, could freeze hell itself.
karina turned her head slowly, her eyes, sharp and obsidian, locking onto yours. a flicker of something – was it a surprise? – crossed her face before her usual mask of indifference slid back into place. “and you…” she drawled, her voice a low, velvety purr that sent a shiver down your spine despite your best efforts to remain stoic.
a slow, predatory smile bloomed on her face, the kind that promised trouble and the thrill of a dangerous game. “and you’re here, i see. did you forget everyone else, or were you always this obsessed with me?” her voice, the honeyed velvet you secretly adored, sent shivers down your spine, a sensation you would vehemently deny if asked.
"obsessed? please. i just thought you looked a little lonely without your little band of tormentors around to back you up.” you retorted, leaning closer, the scent of her perfume, a heady mix of sandalwood and something dangerously floral, filling your senses. “i just didn’t expect to find you all alone, stripped of your little lapdogs. It’s almost…disarming.” it was a weak jab, you knew it, but it was enough to elicit a low, throaty laugh from her.
her lips curled into a smirk, a flash of white teeth that made your stomach clench. “disarming? honey, you have no idea what kind of power i hold, with or without those girls behind me.” she took a step closer, narrowing the distance between you, the heat rolling off her body like a tangible thing.
“and sweetheart,” she purred, taking a step closer, the gap between you closing, the air crackling between you, “we’re just having a little fun here. you, on the other hand, seem a little… preoccupied.”
the heat in your cheeks had nothing to do with the stifling air. your heart hammered against your ribs like a trapped bird. “preoccupied? i’m… i'm just stating facts.”
“are you?” she whispered, moving closer, her breath ghosting over your ear, “or are you just looking for a little attention from someone who can actually handle you?”
a strange, dizzying sensation twisted in your stomach. it wasn't a question, it was a declaration, a challenge thrown down like a gauntlet. “handle me? you think you can handle me? you're all bark and no bite. without giselle's death stares, winter's shoulder bumps, and ningning's silent judgments, you're nothing.”
she didn't answer. instead, she reached out, her fingers brushing against your arm, a touch that sent a surge of electricity through your veins. “come with me.” she murmured, her voice a low command that you found yourself strangely compelled to obey.
and just like that, you were following her, weaving through the crowd, away from the music and the noise, towards the back of the house, a place you knew was usually empty, and a strange sense of dread and anticipation began to bubble inside of you.
you found yourselves in a small, dimly lit bathroom. the music was muffled here, the air thick with the scent of stale cigarette smoke and cheap perfume. you leaned against the cold tile wall, the back of your head thudding softly as you tried to catch your breath, and karina stepped inside; she turned and locked the door.
she didn't speak, didn’t even look at you directly for a moment. she just stood there, a few feet away, her eyes watching you like a predator sizing up its prey. you tried to hold her gaze, but the intensity was too much, and your eyes drifted to her lips, the curve of them, the hint of a smirk playing on the corners.
“so…” she drawled, her voice low and husky, “what exactly did you want from me?”
your mind was a blank slate, your carefully constructed arguments dissolving into nothingness. “i— i don't know…” you stammered, hating the way you suddenly felt, small and unsure, completely at her mercy.
karina laughed, a short, sharp sound that was more taunt than amusement. “that’s what i thought.” she moved without warning, closing the distance between you in two quick strides. her hand shot out to grab your chin, tilting your head up so that you were forced to meet her gaze. “ypu're not so tough when it comes to me, are you?”
before you could form a coherent thought, her lips were on yours, a bruising, demanding kiss that stole your breath away. it was everything you had wanted, everything you had never dared to dream of, all wrapped up in one intoxicating moment. you instinctively kissed back, your body responding to hers with a desperate need that shocked you.
her hands roamed, tracing the curve of your jaw, delving into your hair, pulling you closer until your bodies were flush against each other. you could feel every inch of her, the heat of her skin pressing against yours, the hard muscle beneath her soft curves.
“you like this, don't you?" she murmured against your lips, her voice laced with a smugness that both infuriated and aroused you. “you like that i’m the one in control. you like that i decide when to kiss you, what to do with you.” she punctuated her words with sharp little bites on your bottom lip, sending shivers of pleasure through you.
her hands began to roam, tracing the curves of your body, sending sparks of desire through your veins. she explored your waist, the curve of your hip, and the small of your back with a boldness that made you breathless. her fingers brushed the edges of your clothes, teasing and taunting you with their delicate touch.
her hands pushed at your shirt, sliding beneath the hem, her cool fingers sending jolts of electricity through you. you whimpered, a mix of protest and surrender. she chuckled, a low rumble against your ear.
her hand slid down lower, finding the waistband of your pants, her fingers teasing you, sending sparks of sensation through your core. “tell me,” she breathed into your ear. “tell me you want this.”
you wanted to deny it, to pull away, to reassert some semblance of control. but the words caught in your throat, replaced by a soft moan as her fingers found their mark, slick heat blooming between your legs. “karina please—”
“you're so easy,” she murmured against your lips, her breath hot and intoxicating. “i could do anything to you right now and you wouldn't stop me.” the words were degrading, a calculated humiliation, but instead of anger, you felt a strange thrill course through you, a sense of surrender that was both terrifying and irresistible.
you pulled back slightly, your breath coming in ragged gasps. “you’re so mean.” you whispered, your voice trembling, the truth of her words hitting home with full force.
she laughed, a low, throaty sound that reverberated through your body. “and you love it.” she said, her eyes sparkling with a dangerous glint, pulling you closer once more, the dance of dominance and submission continuing. the kiss was deeper, more passionate, her tongue exploring your mouth with a confident, practiced ease. you were lost in her, drowning in the force of her touch and the intoxicating pull of her personality, the feeling of a strange mix of fear and a longing that you never knew you possessed.
you, completely overtaken with sensation, didn't even realize how long you were in there, or how much her words both insulted and intoxicated you, but as the kiss deepened, and her hands roamed more, the reality that your friends were probably looking for you, and just the whole situation in general, slowly began to cloud the haze of lust.
she takes you out of your thoughts when her deft fingers made quick work of the button on your jeans. karina smirked as she slowly slid her hand into your unzipped jeans, teasingly tracing the lace of your panties. she rubbed your clothed slit with the heel of her palm, applying just enough pressure to make you squirm.
karina's voice was a low, urgent growl in your ear. "fuck, you're so wet already… is all this because of those stupid kisses i just gave you a few moments ago? or have you been this wet all night since you got here because your little head has been thinking about me touching you? dirty slut… getting this turned on in public. i bet you want my fingers buried inside your tight little cunt, don't you?”
karina's nimble fingers slipped beneath the waistband of your panties, teasing along your clothed slit. she rubbed slow, maddening circles over your clothed clit, applying just enough pressure to make your toes curl in your shoes. “that's why you always give attitude, isn't it? is giving dirty looks and a bitchy attitude your way of saying you want me to fuck you silly?” her other hand slid under your shirt, caressing the smooth skin of your tummy before cupping your breast, kneading the supple flesh.
“poor little thing... you must be really desperate, aren't you? karina purred, feeling the dampness seeping through the fabric. she slipped a finger under the waistband and pulled your panties aside, exposing your bare, glistening folds.
karina dragged a single fingertip along your slit, barely grazing your sensitive flesh, from your entrance up to your clit. she circled the throbbing bud with maddening slowness, not quite touching it directly.
“please—”
karina chuckled darkly at your needy plea, relishing the power she held over you. she continued her torturous teasing, now running two fingers slowly up and down your dripping slit, spreading your wetness throughout all your folds and then slipping her finger just barely inside your tight entrance, only to pull it out and circle your clit again.
“please what, baby? say it.” karina demanded, her hot breath washing over your neck. she nipped at your earlobe, tugging it between her teeth. “beg for my fingers like a good little slut.”
“please no, this is embarrassing, i—”
"but you're so wet… i can feel it dripping down your thighs. you want my fingers so badly, don't you slut?” she circled your clit once more, drawing a needy whimper from your lips before finally, mercifully, pressing down on the sensitive nub. “c’mon, baby. tell me how badly you need my fingers buried deep in this hungry cunt. i want to hear you say it.” she rasped, her voice thick with lust and dominance.
karina smirked as she felt your body tremble against hers, your breathing growing ragged. she loved reducing you to this desperate, aching mess. her finger traced maddening circles around your entrance, dipping just the tiniest bit inside before retreating, over and over.
“please, karina... please fuck me.” you gasped out, too far gone to hold back your plea. “i need your fingers so badly. i'm so fucking wet and empty... please fill me up.”
karina let out a low, wicked laugh. “mmmh, good girl. i love when you beg for it.” she purred approvingly. without warning, she plunged two fingers deep into your soaked, clenching heat, pumping them in and out at a brutal pace.
“that's it, take my fingers like the greedy little slut you are.” karina growled, her thumb grinding against your clit. her other hand shoved your bra up and out of the way, allowing her to roughly palm and squeeze your bare breast, rolling and pinching the stiff peak.
the bathroom filled with the obscene sound of your wetness, the slap of karina's palm against your pussy, and your desperate, wanton moans.
karina's fingers curled inside you, stroking your g-spot with ruthless precision as she finger-fucked you mercilessly. her thumb rubbed tight circles around your clit, the stimulation overwhelming your senses.
“fuck, baby, your cunt is gripping my fingers so tightly. i can feel you getting close.” karina rasped, her voice heavy with lust. she leaned in, biting and sucking at your neck, determined to leave her mark on your skin.
suddenly, she pulled her fingers out, leaving you empty and aching. before you could protest, she slammed you against the bathroom wall. her lips crashed against yours in a bruising, demanding kiss, her tongue invading your mouth.
karina grabbed your wrists, pinning your hands above your head as she kissed you deeply, swallowing your whimpers and moans. her knee pressed between your thighs, rubbing against your dripping, throbbing clit. she broke the kiss, both of you panting heavily.
she smirked wickedly as she felt you grinding your hips against her thigh, desperate for any friction. karina grabbed your ass, squeezing the firm cheeks as she encouraged your movements.
“that's it, ride my thigh like the needy little slut you are.” karina purred, her voice dripping with dark amusement. she could feel your wetness soaking through her jeans, staining the denim. the bathroom echoed with the obscene sound of your pussy rubbing against her thigh, your panting breaths, and karina's approving moans.
keeping your wrists pinned above you, karina leaned in to attack your neck, biting and sucking at the tender skin. she wanted to mark you, to leave you with bruises and hickies that would remind you of this moment every time you looked in the mirror.
karina roughly palmed your bare breast, rolling and pinching the stiff peak between her fingers. she tugged and plucked at your nipple, sending jolts of pleasure-pain straight to your core.
karina could feel your movements growing erratic, your desperation reaching a fever pitch as you rutted against her thigh. she could tell you were teetering on the edge, your body tensing and shaking.
“c’mon baby, cum for me.” karina purred, her voice a sinful whisper against your ear. “i want to feel you gush all over my thigh. go ahead, let go and cum like the dirty girl you are.”
to push you over the precipice, karina pinched your nipple hard, twisting it as she bit down on the junction of your neck and shoulder, breaking the skin. at the same time, she pressed her thigh harder against your clit, grinding against it with ruthless intensity.
the combination of intense sensations overwhelmed you, and you shattered, coming undone against her. your vision went white as your orgasm crashed through you like a tidal wave, your body convulsing and shaking uncontrollably. karina held you tight, not letting you fall as your pussy clenched and spasmed, gushing your release onto her thigh as a scream of ecstasy ripped from your throat.
ehe continued to grind her thigh against your spasming sex, drawing out your climax and making you ride out the waves of pleasure.
when your orgasm finally began to subside, karina captured your lips in a searing, dominating kiss. she plundered your mouth, her tongue stroking and caressing every inch of you, swallowing your whimpers and moans. her hands roamed your body, squeezing and groping your curves possessively.
finally, she pulled back, leaving you gasping and boneless against the wall, your chest heaving. “mmmh, look at the mess you made, you naughty girl…” karina teased, trailing her fingers through the damp patch before bringing them to her mouth. she made a show of licking your juices off, her eyes never leaving yours. “delicious. i knew you'd taste as good as you look.”
her hand slid around your hip, squeezing the curve of your ass as she pressed closer, pinning you neatly between her body and the wall. karina's lips found your neck once more, her mouth hot and open against your skin.
karina pulled back slightly, her dark eyes glinting with mischief and unquenched desire. she glanced at her phone, a smirk playing on her lips. "shit, look at the time. i gotta jet…”
karina cursed under her breath but quickly composed herself, stepping back from you. she smirked as she glanced down at your disheveled appearance; your jeans still unbuttoned, your shirt rumpled, and your hair mussed. the satisfied flush on your cheeks was unmistakable.
“we'll definitely do this again.” she said casually, as if finger-fucking you senseless in a bathroom was an everyday occurrence for her. “but don't think this is over. i'm not done with you yet, not by a long shot."
karina leaned in close, her lips brushing yours teasingly as she whispered. “i'll find you later. maybe tonight, i'll sneak into your dorm room and finish what we started here. wear something easy to take off.” she purred, before stealing a quick, hard kiss and pulling away.
with a final wink, karina turned and sauntered out of the bathroom, leaving you dazed, aroused, and eagerly anticipating her promised nighttime visit. you knew this was only the beginning of your adventures with the infamous queen bee, karina.
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fangdokja · 6 days ago
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The love interests were bad. The backup plans are worse.
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♡ Book. Whispers in the Dark (WITD): Subtle Devotion, Lingering Shadows.
♡ Word Count. 1,555
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You’re not an idiot.
You know by now that the main love interests will not tolerate competition. Not from their noble families, not from the church, not from the gods themselves. Certainly not from random side characters that you, in your infinite apathy, have decided to flirt with as an escape plan.
That’s why your new strategy is simple: pick men who are strong enough to survive.
Because let’s be real, your past attempts? Disastrous. The commoners you tried to seduce? Their corpses were unrecognizable by the time your ‘fiancé’ was done with them. The knights? Cut down in broad daylight, their armor melted to their flesh. The poor priest you smiled at for too long? Declared a heretic and burned at the stake.
You need powerful allies. Men who can actually put up a fight.
So here you are.
Testing your luck with monsters in their own right.
And you think you’ve finally outsmarted the system.
♡ Yandere! War Hero who should be the perfect solution to your ongoing nightmare. A battle-hardened general, the strongest knight in the empire, beloved by the people, and—most importantly—someone the Crown Prince actually respects.
♡ Yandere! War Hero who is your best chance at survival. Because if you’re going to seduce someone, it better be a man so powerful that even the Crown Prince wouldn’t dare to casually execute him out of petty jealousy.
♡ Yandere! War Hero is silent as you place a hand on his chest. It’s purely mechanical. An experiment. A half-hearted attempt at survival.
“Marry me.”
His eye twitches. Just a fraction. The scar running down his jaw pulls slightly when he smiles. The kind of smile that’s seen too many battlefields and decided life isn’t worth taking seriously anymore.
“Bold.” He tilts his head. “Do you make a habit of seducing tired soldiers?”
You stare at him, unblinking. “Do you make a habit of dying for a crown prince who doesn’t even like you?”
♡ Yandere! War Hero hums. “Fair point.”
It should’ve ended there. He should’ve laughed you off. He should’ve chalked it up to a desperate princess-to-be looking for a way out. Instead, he watches you the way he would an enemy formation—calculating, assessing, like he’s already five steps ahead of you.
And then, his gloved fingers reach up, brushing the side of your face. “Alright, then.” His voice is soft, amused, almost teasing. “Try me.”
♡ Yandere! War Hero who does not immediately fall for your charms like a weak-willed idiot. You are almost relieved.
♡ Yandere! War Hero who starts lingering around you. Not in a romantic way, but in the way an apex predator watches an unguarded piece of meat.
♡ Yandere! War Hero who doesn’t touch you, doesn’t flirt, doesn’t even try to talk to you outside of necessary interactions. He only waits.
♡ Yandere! War Hero who does not elaborate.
♡ Yandere! War Hero who lets you keep pretending you have options. For now.
———
♡ Yandere! Master Thief who is supposed to be your wildcard. The one person the Archduke can’t easily eliminate, because the bastard can’t catch him.
♡ Yandere! Master Thief who is infamous. A legend whispered through the criminal underworld, the man who steals everything—gold, secrets, reputations.
♡ Yandere! Master Thief laughs when you proposition him. Loud. Raucous. Like you’ve just told him the world’s funniest joke, “So you’re looking to get stolen, sweetheart?”
“Princess,” he grins, resting his chin in his palm. “You’re adorable.”
“I’m serious.” Your voice is flat. “If I’m marrying anyone, it’s you.”
His smirk sharpens. “And why’s that?”
You gesture vaguely at his whole existence. “Because you’re not a noble psychopath with an overinflated ego and too much power.”
The thief raises a brow. “Not a fan of royalty, huh?”
You stare. He laughs again.
It’s supposed to be a game. You’re supposed to string him along just enough to make the Archduke lose interest. But the thief is too clever for his own good. He plays along a little too easily, indulges you a little too happily—and before you realize it, he’s not just humoring you.
He’s invested.
“You’re an interesting one, princess,” he murmurs, his lips brushing against your ear as he pockets yet another one of your possessions—this time, the ring the Archduke gave you. “Don’t worry, I’ll take good care of you.”
♡ Yandere! Master Thief who pushes you against a wall one night, breath warm against your ear, and murmurs, “Tell me, what’s worse? Being kept in a gilded cage… or waking up one morning to find out you never really had a choice?”
♡ Yandere! Master Thief who disappears before you can ask what the fuck that means.
You don’t have time to process it before the Archduke orders his execution. But the thief is already ahead of him. Already laughing from the rooftops. Already slipping past every locked door. Already gone—except for the letter he leaves on your pillow, written in the same teasing script as always:
You’re a terrible liar, my love. I’ll be back soon.
———
♡ Yandere! Enemy Spy who was once a ghost, an enigma, the empire’s greatest enemy. A man who has buried himself so deep into the enemy’s ranks that even his true name has been forgotten.
♡ Yandere! Enemy Spy where you're certain he is the safest bet yet. He has no reason to be obsessed with you. You have no reason to be on his radar. He’s an enemy of the empire, for crying out loud.
Which is why you don’t flinch when you sit beside him in the darkened corridor, both of you pretending not to exist as the Supreme Mage’s footsteps pass dangerously close.
“You could be executed just for breathing the same air as me,” the spy muses.
You sigh. “I’d rather take my chances with you than with him.”
Yandere! Enemy Spy who immediately recognizes what you’re doing. Who lets you slip into his world of whispered secrets and veiled threats. Who watches you with dark, unreadable eyes as you try to weave him into your escape plan.
♡ Yandere! Enemy Spy who finally, finally reacts to you after weeks of cold indifference.
The spy is silent. When he looks at you, it’s with unreadable eyes—like he’s looking at something fragile. Something dangerous. Something he doesn’t quite understand.
“This is a mistake,” he finally murmurs.
But it’s already too late.
♡ Yandere! Enemy Spy who does not look like a man who has fallen in love. He looks like a man who has figured something out.
The first sign is the way the Supreme Mage starts watching you with something colder than usual. The second is the sudden disappearance of a few imperial informants. The third is the spy’s voice in your ear, soft and dangerous:
“I was going to leave this country without a trace.” His breath is warm against your neck. “Then you went and made yourself my problem.”
You don’t need to turn around to feel the weight of his words.
You were supposed to be his cover. Instead, he’s burning his entire mission just to keep you.
———
♡ Yandere! Demon Assassin who has served the Demon King for centuries, a ruthless, efficient killer with no equal. He has no desires, no ambitions, no life outside of his work.
“Hey.” You press the knife against his throat, unimpressed. “Be my boyfriend.”
The assassin blinks at you.
The moonlight barely catches on his eyes, but you can see the surprise flicker there.
Then, slow. Amused. “Is this a marriage proposal or an assassination attempt?”
“Both, if you say no.”
He chuckles, low and dark. “What a terrifying woman.”
The Demon King’s wrath has been growing. He’s noticed your little game. He’s noticed your preferences. And now his most trusted assassin has noticed, too.
And yet, the assassin doesn’t kill you. Doesn’t report you. Instead, he laughs. As if he’s entertained by the whole thing.
You should have suspected something when he didn’t immediately gut you. You should have seen it coming when he started letting you win against him.
It’s only when the Demon King himself calls for the assassin’s execution that the final piece clicks into place—when the assassin smirks, kneels before you in front of an entire burning battlefield, and declares, “I was always going to betray him for you.”
The realization is a slow, creeping horror.
Your only options now are a yandere overlord or his yandere executioner.
There is no winning.
Only surviving.
────────────
If you want to be added or removed from the tag list, just comment on the MASTERLIST of Whispers in the Dark (WITD): Subtle Devotion, Lingering Shadows. Thank you.
General TAG LIST of “Whispers In The Dark”: @keisocool , @elvabeth , @elloredef , @mjsjshhd , @lem-hhn , @yuki-istired , @lilyalone , @starryperson
❤︎ Fang Dokja's Books.
♡ Book 1. A Heart Devoured (AHD): A Dark Yandere Anthology ♡ Book 2. Forbidden Fruits (FF): Intimate Obsessions, Unhinged Desires. ♡ Book 3. World Ablaze (WA) : For You, I'd Burn the World. ♡ Book 4 [you are here]. Whispers in the Dark (WITD): Subtle Devotion, Lingering Shadows. ♡ Book 5. Ink & Insight (I&I): From Dead Dove to Daydreams.
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noctil2 · 8 months ago
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Royalty calculation for record labels
Royalty Calculation for Independent vs. Major Record Labels: 5 Quick Contrasts
Curious about the differences in royalty calculation between independent and major record labels? Here’s a quick breakdown to help you understand the distinctions:
Contract flexibility
Independent labels often offer more personalized contracts tailored to individual artists, while major labels typically have standardized agreements.
Scale of operations
Independent labels handle fewer artists and releases, whereas major labels manage a vast array of artists and content.
Technology and resources
Independent labels may use simpler royalty management tools due to budget constraints, while major labels invest in advanced, proprietary software.
Revenue streams
Independent labels have diverse revenue sources, including physical sales and digital downloads, whereas major labels primarily focus on mainstream revenue streams like DSPs.
Transparency and reporting
Independent labels tend to offer more transparent communication with artists about royalty calculations, while major labels may have more sophisticated but less transparent reporting systems.
To Know More: https://blogs.noctil.com/royalty-calculation-for-record-labels/
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wisdomandroyalty · 2 years ago
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Learn How To Become Wealthy And Secure The Lifestyle You Deserve
Ready to attract the wealth you deserve? 💰💸💎 Check out our latest article for tips on mindset shifts, taking action, and more. Don't miss out on manifesting your dream life! #wealthmindset #attractabundance
Are you tired of living a mediocre life? Do you dream of owning a fancy mansion, driving a luxurious car, or wearing expensive clothes? Well, my friend, it’s time to manifest the wealth you truly deserve! And don’t worry, you don’t have to be born with a silver spoon in your mouth to achieve it. Not too long ago, I was you on the other side of the screen trying to figure out and still learning…
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britishchick09 · 2 years ago
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the rewrite is 153,074 words and 470 pages so far and i put that in a book calculator set at 5x8... which made it 730 pages!!!! :o
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redroomreflections · 4 months ago
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Just Once More
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Natasha Romanoff xFem!Reader
Missed Connections Universe - you can read here.
Summary: Princess Natasha of Russia, is to be wed to Prince Amir of Senoria, the only problem is his younger sister catches her eye.
This installment: Natasha is lonely while Prince Amir is away.
Warnings: Cunnilingus, fingering, nipple play, virginity loss
Note: Another contribution to society. It was in my drafts and I left it here to rot like all my other drafts. Then I picked it up because I was inspired by kinktober.
w/c: 6.3k
The heavy silk sheets felt more like a cage than a comfort. Natasha turned onto her side for what felt like the hundredth time that night, her restless body unable to find peace. Her eyes remained wide open, staring at the ceiling, while her mind raced with thoughts she couldn’t quiet.
The palace was silent. Too silent.
She could hear the ticking of the clock on the wall, each second pulling her further from any chance of sleep. The bed, grand and soft, offered no relief from the gnawing ache in her chest. The emptiness beside her, Amir’s absence, was supposed to be a reprieve. But all it did was remind her of how far apart they had grown—how hollow everything between them had become. She supposed they had a good marriage so far. They barely bickered, hung out often, and had a lot of fun together. He simply didn't feel like a husband. She didn't love him. Not in the romantic sense at least.
She exhaled sharply, frustration building as she twisted the sheets around her fingers. She thought she’d be better at this by now—this life of royalty, this performance. But the truth lingered just below the surface: no title, no crown could cover the fact that she couldn’t give him what he needed. What they expected.
An heir.
The word itself made her feel sick.
Natasha's jaw tightened as she turned over again, her back now facing the wide, empty room. The weight of it all pressed down on her, a constant, heavy reminder of her failure. It wasn't just Amir. It was the whispers in the halls, the subtle looks from the court, and the cold distance that had grown between her and the man she had promised to stand beside.
She couldn’t do it anymore. Not tonight. In the darkness, Natasha pushed the covers off her, the chill of the night air hitting her bare skin. She moved with quiet determination, slipping out of bed and reaching for the robe draped over a nearby chair. As she tied it around her waist, her heart pounded—not from fear, but from the desperate need for something real, something she hadn’t felt in far too long.
Her feet moved before she could think to stop them, carrying her toward the door. She didn’t need to think. She knew where she was going. Natasha glanced down the hall, ensuring it was empty before slipping out of her room. The palace was asleep, its inhabitants tucked away in their rooms, none the wiser to her midnight escape.
The sound of her bare feet against the cold marble floor echoed softly as she made her way to your bed chambers. It was quiet on the trek from her sleeping quarters.
Your room was closer to the guest wing than hers. A benefit of being a royal sibling, she thought, as opposed to the consort of one. The palace had never felt quite like home to her, and her husband never like a husband.
But you? You were something else entirely.
Natasha was used to the feeling of loneliness, but somehow it had intensified over the past six months, growing heavier as time went on. In the midst of it, you were the bright spot in her otherwise monotonous life.
Your friendship came as a surprise. Natasha had always been the odd one out, an outsider, someone to observe rather than befriend. She found that you were the total opposite of your brother. While he was all business and formal, you were warmth and at ease. Where Amir’s touch was distant, and calculated, yours was always genuine, whether a brush of fingers in passing or a comforting hand on her arm when she needed it most. It wasn’t supposed to mean anything—it couldn’t. But the line between what was and what wasn’t had blurred long ago, and tonight, it had all become too much to ignore.
Natasha slowed her steps as she neared your door, her heart pounding louder than the soft footfalls on the marble behind her. She pressed her hand to the cool wood, hesitating for a brief moment. What was she doing? She wasn’t supposed to be here, not like this, and certainly not while Amir was away. But the ache in her chest, the unbearable weight of everything she couldn’t say, pushed her forward.
You were the only one who made her feel like herself again, the only one who didn’t look at her and see a crown, or a title, or a failure. She'd kept her promise not to tell your secret. You had intentionally kept your distance because of it. Though she couldn't figure out why. Her hand came to the door in rapid succession. One. Two. Three.
There was no turning back now.
She listened intently, her head cocked slightly as she tried to make out any signs of movement from inside. A faint rustling sound caught her attention, and she took it as an invitation to push open the door.
"Y/n?" She asked softly.
"Who is it?" Your voice sounded, a bit confused. "Natasha? Is that you?"
"Yes. May I enter?"
"Of course."
You had been in bed when she'd knocked, your feet propped up against the pillows as you read a book. You sat up in bed, the delicate fabric of your nightgown shifting as you moved. It was a simple slip dress, made of soft, lightweight material that clung loosely to your form, falling just below your knees. The top was sleeveless, dipping low between your breasts, the neckline accented with a fine lace trim.
You placed your book down, sliding off the edge of the bed and walking towards the door.
"Is everything alright?" You asked. "It's a little late."
"I know," Natasha sighed. "I just..."
You opened the door wider, a soft smile gracing your lips as you stepped aside.
"Come in."
Natasha looked around. It's the first time she's been in your bedroom. Natasha hesitated for a moment, her eyes scanning the space before stepping inside. The room was cozy, far more inviting than her chambers. A soft glow emanated from the single lantern on your nightstand, casting warm shadows across the walls. The scent of lavender lingered in the air, likely from the small bundle of dried flowers near the window. It was a different than the cold, impersonal decor of her room, which always felt more like a gilded cage than a sanctuary.
She lingered by the door, her fingers brushing the smooth wood as she took it all in. Everything about the space felt more... you. The personal touches, the lived-in comfort, the warmth—it made her realize how lonely she felt in the stark emptiness of her quarters.
“This is... nice,” Natasha said, her voice quiet, almost as if she didn’t want to disturb the peace of the room.
You closed the door behind her, the soft click cutting through the silence. “It’s nothing special, really,” you shrugged. “Just a place to sleep.”
Natasha's eyes flickered to the bed, where you’d just been lounging, the impression of your body still visible in the rumpled sheets. For a moment, she was tempted to tell you why she was there—how the weight of her title, her inability to provide an heir, and the growing distance between her and Amir were suffocating her. But the words lodged themselves in her throat, heavy with the burden of expectation.
"Ah, missing my brother aren't you?" You guessed.
"Yes," she nodded, not bothering to hide the lie.
"That's why you're here?"
"Yes."
"Oh." You looked away for a moment, clearing your throat before meeting her gaze. There was a brief silence as the weight of your words hung in the air. Natasha could see the flicker of disappointment in your eyes, though you tried to mask it with a soft smile. It made her chest tighten, a pang of guilt twisting in her stomach. She hadn’t come here to talk about Amir, but how could she explain that without unraveling everything?
You gestured towards the bed, inviting her to sit. Natasha perched on the edge of the mattress, the soft comforter a stark contrast to the stiff, unwelcoming sheets in her room. She ran her fingers over the fabric, letting herself get lost in the simple act of touch.
You walked over to the nightstand, the floor cold against your bare feet. You turned back to Natasha, a playful glint in your eye. “Would you like to play a game?” You opened your nightstand drawer and pulled out a well-worn deck of playing cards, the corners slightly frayed from use.
“I thought you might be missing my brother,” you teased, fanning the cards out in your hand. “But maybe you just need someone to play with.”
Natasha’s lips curved into a faint smile, the weight of her worries momentarily lifted by the simple gesture. “What do you have in mind?”
You grinned, shuffling the cards with a practiced hand. “How about a classic game of Rummy? Or we could play a round of Blackjack—unless you’re feeling lucky.”
“Blackjack sounds good,” she replied, her eyes sparkling with a hint of mischief.
As you both settled onto the edge of the bed, the tension in the air faded, replaced by a comfortable camaraderie. You dealt the cards, the quiet shuffle and snap of the deck punctuating the stillness of the night.
You slid the deck over, and she took it. She dealt out the rest of the cards, taking a moment to glance at her hand.
"So, how's life as Princess Consort of Senoria soon to be future Queen," You asked.
Natasha frowned slightly, her fingers tapping idly on the cards in her hand. "It's been good."
"Just good?" You arched an eyebrow.
Natasha shrugged, the question weighing on her mind. It was the first time she'd been asked that question, and it wasn't one she had an answer to. "I think things are going well."
"You mean my brother hasn't been showing you a good time?"
Natasha shook her head. "No. No, no. We've just been busy. There's a lot of things going on and we've had our projects."
You smirked. "Well, if you ever want a better tour, I'd be more than happy to oblige."
"When you're not avoiding me?" Natasha blurted.
You stopped, surprised at the sudden candor. You hadn't expected her to be so direct, especially not about that. You paused, a guilty expression washing over your features.
"I wasn't..." You shook your head. "I have my own life to live."
"And yet, here you are," she pointed out.
"In my bedroom yes," You nodded. "It's usually where I am at this hour."
Natasha pursed her lips. She didn't believe you, and from the way you averted your gaze, neither did you. You hadn't seen each other outside of public events since the wedding. You liked it that way. Less room for confusion.
"Something's bothering you," You guessed as you played your hand.
"How would you know?" She shot back, her eyes narrowing slightly.
"Well, I haven't seen you in months, so..."
Natasha's gaze fell, her hand hovering over the cards. She didn't know if she could trust you. You tilted your head, studying her expression closely. “You know, if you wanted to talk about it…” You began, trailing off as Natasha shifted uncomfortably.
“I’m fine,” she insisted, but the tightness around her eyes betrayed her.
“Are you?” You pressed gently, your curiosity piqued. “It’s been six months, and I can’t help but notice how you light up around others, but you seem… different around Amir.”
Natasha sighed, her gaze dropping to the cards in her hand. “It’s just… there’s a lot of pressure,” she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. “Everyone expects me to provide an heir, and it feels like every day that passes just adds to that weight.”
You nodded, absorbing her words. “That’s a heavy burden to carry,” you said softly. “Have you talked to Amir about how you feel?”
“He’s… focused on his duties,” She answered a hint of sadness in her tone. “I don’t want to add to his stress. He has so much to manage already.”
“But you matter too, Natasha,” You urged, your brow furrowing. “You’re more than just a title. You deserve to be happy, to feel supported.”
A flicker of vulnerability crossed her face. “I don’t know if he sees me that way,” she admitted, her voice trembling slightly. “Sometimes I wonder if he even notices I’m struggling.”
You squeezed her hand gently, determined to show her that she was not alone. “He should,” you said firmly. “You’re not just a consort; you’re a partner. He needs to know how you’re feeling.”
Natasha met your gaze, a mixture of gratitude and uncertainty in her eyes. “You make it sound so easy,” she replied, a small smile breaking through her sadness. “But it’s not.”
“Maybe not easy,” You agreed. "I know my brother." There was a pause.
"Can I ask you a question?" Natasha asked. She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear nervously.
"Shoot." You said as you reached over for a sip of water.
"How much do you know about sex?"
You choked on the sip of water, trying to cover up the cough. "Not a lot."
"You seem very informed," Natasha countered.
"I've read a few books." You set down your goblet. "Listened to stories as you have done. I think you'd know more than me. Seeing as you've done it and all."
"Not willingly." She muttered and your eyes widened. "I don't mean he's hurt me. I just...it's not exciting. I used to hear the handmaidens talk back in the palace at home. They would describe it with such passion and emotion."
"And you're not getting that?" You cringed. Hearing of your brother and Natasha in bed was the last thing you needed.
"I don't even think we're having sex," she admitted. "He's good to me. He's gentle. I feel things but..."
You let out a groan. "God, you are my sister now and I never needed to hear this."
"I'm sorry," She frowned. "I have no one to speak of this with."
"Why not your mother? Surely she can help."
"My mother?" She blanched. "No. Absolutely not. She's more old-fashioned. She thinks I should fulfill my duties and that's it. What if things we are doing currently is what prevents us from having an heir? What if I'm not doing something right?"
You shifted a bit. "I don't know if I'm the person to ask about this."
"Please," she begged. "You're the only one I can trust."
"Alright, alright." You sighed. "Look, you just need to focus on the act and not what happens after."
"What do you mean?"
"I mean, enjoy yourself. Do what feels good, not what Amir wants."
"He's my husband," Natasha blinked.
"Exactly."
"So, I should do what makes me happy?"
"Exactly," You repeated. "Do something for yourself. I think he would enjoy it." You would need to wash your brain after this conversation.
Natasha bit her bottom lip, considering the idea. Maybe you were right. Maybe she did need to take control of the situation, rather than let Amir lead. Maybe if she tried something different, she would feel more connected to him.
She took a deep breath. "Is that what you do?"
"What?"
"Do you do what feels good for yourself?"
You stared at her for a moment. "That's not appropriate."
"Why?"
"Because I'm not married," You countered. "It's different."
"How?"
"It's just not the same," You shook your head.
"But..." Natasha paused. "Are you not satisfied either?"
You blinked. "Natasha, it's not about satisfaction."
"So, you are?"
"This is not the conversation I was expecting to have with you," You mumbled, your cheeks heating up. Natasha deflated. It seems she would be getting nowhere. Not that it was any of her business.
"I'm sorry," She muttered.
"It's alright."
"No, it's not."
"Hey," You took her hand. "If you're not happy then do something about it."
"What if I'm not supposed to be happy?"
"Then make the most of what you have." You offered her a kind smile. "There's more to life than just a marriage, Nat."
She returned the smile, grateful for your friendship. Maybe things weren't so hopeless after all. Maybe she could find a way to make things work with Amir. And maybe, just maybe, she could be happy.
"I don't want to go back to my room," Natasha said. "It's lonely."
"Do you want to stay here?"
"Really?" Her eyes lit up, a look of excitement flashing across her features.
"Of course," You nodded. "I mean, I'd feel bad kicking you out."
"Thank you," She smiled. "I'll be gone in the morning. You won't even know I was here."
"Oh, I'll know," You chuckled.
"Well, then maybe we'll have breakfast together," She suggested. "Would that be alright?"
"I would love that," You grinned. "But I need to get some sleep. I have a busy day tomorrow." You returned the deck of cards to your nightstand. You reach over to turn off the lantern.
Natasha's expression fell, a slight pout forming on her lips. She stood, turning away from you, to take off her robe and drape it over a nearby chair. As Natasha moved away to remove her robe, you felt an unexpected flutter of nerves in your stomach. It was one thing to share a space with her while playing cards, the tension between you eased by laughter and light conversation. But now, as the soft fabric slipped from her shoulders and hung over the chair, the atmosphere shifted.
You swallowed hard, trying to focus on anything other than the way her silhouette contrasted against the dim light. The way she carried herself was both confident and delicate, a combination that left you feeling unsteady.
Your heart raced as you considered the implications of her staying the night. It was thrilling, yet terrifying. The very idea sent a rush of warmth through you, mixed with the fear of crossing an unspoken boundary. What if she misread your kindness? What if this moment changed everything between you?
“I—uh, I’ll just,” you stammered, trying to regain your composure. You busied yourself straightening the covers on the bed, your hands fidgeting nervously as you avoided looking directly at her. “I’ll get you some blankets.” You said, inadvertently referring to the way her nipples hardened at the slightest bit of cool air.
“Hey,” Natasha said softly, her voice cutting through your internal disorder. She folded her arms over her chest. You finally met her gaze, and the warmth in her eyes made your heart skip. “You don’t have to worry about that. I’m fine.”
Her reassurance did little to calm your nerves. You could feel the weight of the silence stretching between you, thick with unsaid words and unacknowledged feelings. “It’s just… I want you to be comfortable,” you managed, trying to maintain a casual tone while your heart raced.
“Trust me, I am,” she said, took a step closer on her side of the bed, she smiled.
You took a breath. She was right. It was just a friendly gesture. There was nothing more to it. You were just being polite. You forced a smile and climbed into the bed, slipping beneath the sheets. Natasha hesitated a moment, then joined you.
She rested her head on the pillow, lying on her back. You matched her position. She could barely make out your features in the dim light.
"So, you are to marry Hosi of Wakanda?" She asked.
"I guess so," You sighed.
"I'm sure he will treat you well."
"Do you know him?"
"Only by reputation."
"Which is?"
"He's a good man."
"That might be the problem," You muttered. "He's a man."
Natasha's brow furrowed slightly, catching the hint of your reluctance. “What do you mean?”
You shrugged, trying to brush off the weight of your thoughts, but the truth lingered in the air between you. “It’s just… I’m not really into men, you know? Hosi might be a good man, but he’s still a man.”
A flicker of understanding crossed Natasha’s face, and she leaned back against the bed, her expression softening. “I see.”
“It’s complicated,” you continued, your voice dropping to a whisper as if saying it out loud might somehow make it more real. “I’ve known for a long time that I’m attracted to women, but it doesn’t matter. In this world, it’s expected that I marry a man. That I produce heirs. That I fulfill my duty.”
“Doesn’t sound like a life you want for yourself,” Natasha observed gently.
You looked away, the flickering candlelight casting shadows on the walls. “It’s not. But what choice do I have? I can’t just defy my family. I can’t risk their wrath. And besides,” you sighed, forcing a laugh that didn’t quite reach your eyes, “who would want me? A woman who loves women? That’s not exactly what the kingdom needs.”
Natasha regarded you with a seriousness that made your heart race. “You deserve to be happy, regardless of what anyone else thinks. You shouldn’t have to sacrifice your desires for the sake of duty.”
Her words hung in the air, heavy and profound, as you wrestled with the truth in them. You wanted to believe it, to embrace the idea that your happiness mattered. But the constraints of your reality weighed heavily on you, and fear clawed at your throat.
"If you could marry anyone and be anywhere what would your wife be like?"
"She'd be someone who understands me."
"Who's that?"
"I don't know." You answered honestly. "She'd be kind. She'd be fierce."
"And?"
"Smart, strong." You sighed. "It doesn't matter."
"It does matter," She assured you. "It matters to you."
"I don't have the luxury of choosing." You sighed. "I just wish I'd taken the chance to lie with Akira before this marriage."
"Akira?"
"The woman from the ball in your kingdom. The handmaiden," You reminded her.
"Did you have feelings for her?"
"No," You admitted. It wasn’t entirely the truth. She didn’t need to hear it. "I didn't. It was just physical."
"Ah," Natasha nodded. "How do you imagine it would be with a woman?"
"You ask a lot of questions, Princess," You teased.
"Well, you're my friend. I want to know what makes you happy," She answered earnestly.
"I suppose it would be tender," You pondered. "Caring, passionate."
"And how would you imagine the act itself?"
You paused. The question had thrown you. You had never spoken of sex, or pleasure, in such detail with anyone before. And now, here you were, lying in bed with your brother's wife, discussing intimacy.
"I'm not sure," You replied carefully, uncertain how to respond.
"You've never pleasured yourself?"
"Of course, I have," You laughed, hoping to dispel the sudden tension. "That's the question you've been trying to get me to answer all night."
"How do you touch yourself?"
"Are you sure you want to know the answer?" You quirked an eyebrow. "You're a married woman now, remember?"
Natasha blushed. "It's not a sin to be curious."
You rolled onto your side, propping yourself up on one elbow, facing her. "Well, when I'm alone and there's no one to interrupt, I start by undressing. I let my hands wander over my body, feeling the warmth of my skin."
"And then?"
"I imagine what it would feel like if it was someone else touching me." You continued, your voice dropping to a low whisper. "I close my eyes and pretend that it's a lover's hands on my skin, caressing me, bringing me pleasure."
Natasha's eyes flickered with something you couldn't quite place.
"Do you think of a specific person?" She asked.
"Sometimes."
"Who is it, usually?"
"It's not always the same person," You answered, evading her question.
"So, it's not the same person each time?"
"No," You replied, your breath catching as Natasha's hand brushed against yours.
"So, it changes."
"Yes." You closed your eyes. Her hands rest on your, encircling your wrist. Your skin is hypersensitive to her touch as she strokes your inner wrist. "You are my brother's wife."
"And that bothers you."
"It shouldn't."
"But it does."
"Can we not do this?"
"Do what?"
"This," You gestured between the two of you. "Don't do something you are going to regret. "
"Do you think I'm not going to regret this?"
"Regret what, exactly?"
"You and me, lying in this bed together, talking about these things."
"I'm unsure," You furrowed your brow.
"What do you want, Y/N?"
"I shouldn't have brought you here."
"But you did. Why?"
"You said you were lonely," You answered. "I didn't want you to feel that way."
"I appreciate the sentiment," She replied.
"I didn't want you to sleep alone, and I didn't want to wake my servant."
"That's not an answer."
"What do you want from me?" You questioned. "What are we doing?"
"We're just talking."
"About sex."
"About pleasure."
"You're my sister-in-law."
"That doesn't mean we can't talk about it."
"We can't go down this path," You sighed. "I can't."
"Why not?"
"Because," You struggled to find the words. Before you could silence the thoughts racing through your mind, Natasha leaned forward and kissed you. It wasn't passionate or life-changing. It was a simple pressing of lips. It ignited a fire deep within your belly. You could taste the remnants of wine on her lips.
She pulled away, a hint of nervousness in her eyes. "Is that not okay?"
"You're my brother's wife," You repeated, almost as if reminding yourself.
"It doesn't have to mean anything," Natasha whispered, her lips mere inches from yours.
"This is dangerous," You warned, your resolve crumbling.
"Only if we let it be," She murmured, closing the distance between you once again. This time, the kiss was deeper, more intense. Her lips were soft and warm, sending shivers of pleasure through you.
As the kiss deepened, the air between you crackled with tension and desire. You could feel the heat rising in your body, the need for more consuming you. You let out a moan as Natasha's tongue danced with yours. Her hands were on your skin, exploring, caressing, bringing you closer to her.
You broke the kiss, gasping for air, your heart racing. You knew that if you kept going, there would be no turning back. But the look in Natasha's eyes was enough to convince you that you didn't want to turn back.
"Natasha, are you sure about this?" You whispered your voice husky with need.
"I want this," She answered, her eyes dark with lust. "Do you?"
"Yes," You breathed, losing yourself in the moment.
You surrendered to her, giving in to the passion that had been simmering beneath the surface. You gripped the fabric of her dress as you kissed her. Your tongues danced, sending waves of pleasure through your body. Natasha's hands were everywhere, touching, caressing, teasing.
The heat between you was intoxicating. You could feel her body pressed against yours, the heat of her skin searing into yours. You wanted more. You needed more.
You pulled her dress off and tossed it aside. You couldn't get enough of her. Her skin was soft and warm, and the feeling of her body against yours was exhilarating.
Natasha's hands explored your body, tracing the contours of your curves. Her touch was electric, sending jolts of pleasure through you. You moaned as her fingers trailed over your breasts, teasing the sensitive flesh. She swirled her thumb over your nipple, toying with it through the fabric.
"Has anyone ever touched you like this before?" She asked. Her question was met with a quiet whimper. She leaned forward and caught the hardening bud between her lips. You gasped as she suckled it, sending bolts of pleasure through you.
"Never," You breathed, the word coming out as a moan. Of course, you'd come close to this but you never allowed anyone to touch you so intimately. There had been quick fumbling and the ghost of fingers along your body but nothing like this. Natasha's mouth was talented, so wet and warm. It took everything you had not to come from the stimulation.
"You're sensitive," She hummed, moving her attention to the other side. "It feels good, doesn't it?"
"Yes," You moaned as you rested a hand on the back of her head. "Don't stop."
"I won't," She promised.
You let yourself sink into the sensation, the feeling of her lips on your skin, her tongue swirling around your nipple, her hands caressing your body. You knew it was wrong to be here with her like this. You'd hate yourself in the morning. But right now, all you could focus on was the pleasure, the exquisite feeling of her touch.
Natasha kissed a path down your body, her tongue tracing a trail along your skin.
"Take this off," You muttered to her as you pushed at her shift. You needed some form of control in this situation. If you let her take charge, there would be no stopping this.
Natasha obliged and tossed the garment aside. She resumed her exploration of your body, her lips trailing lower and lower. She tugged at yours too, pushing it over your head.
She returned to her position at your chest. She nipped at the sensitive skin of your stomach. You shuddered and arched into her, craving more contact. Her hands skimmed up the length of your thighs, pushing them apart. She settled herself between your legs, her breath hot against your skin.
You watched her with bated breath as she moved her mouth to the apex of your thighs.
"Fuck," You swore as her tongue traced a path along your inner thigh.
"Does that feel good?" She asked, a smirk tugging at her lips.
"Yes," You breathed. "Don't stop."
Natasha chuckled softly, the vibrations sending waves of pleasure through you. She resumed her exploration, her lips moving closer and closer to your core. She'd never done this before. Neither had you. You'd had lovers but they'd never gotten this far. It had always been hurried, awkward encounters that had left you wanting. But Natasha... Natasha knew exactly what she was doing.
She kissed your mound. Your legs trembled, and you fought to keep them open. You wanted to give her access to everything. Her tongue traced a line along the seam of your pussy, teasing and tasting. You whimpered, unable to hold back. Natasha seemed to like the taste of you as she licked again.
"I thought you didn't know about this," You muttered as a curse formed on the tip of your tongue. "Where did you learn?"
"I've read a few books too," She answered, her voice thick with desire.
"And books taught you how to do this?"
"I like to learn new things," She smirked before flicking her tongue against your clit.
Your body tensed, and you gasped, the sensation so intense.
"Natasha, fuck."
She hummed in response, the vibrations driving you wild.
You reached out and buried your fingers in her hair, needing something to ground you.
"Who knew the princess knew such colorful words," She teased as she pressed her lips to the sensitive bud.
"Shut up and keep going," You growled, pulling her back to you.
Natasha chuckled but complied, her tongue exploring the length of your sex. She teased and tasted, bringing you closer and closer to the edge. You could feel the pleasure building inside you, the tension coiling in your core.
She lapped at your clit, drawing the sensitive bud into her mouth. You moaned, the sound reverberating off the walls. She looked up, her green eyes meeting yours, and you felt the coil in your belly tighten.
"I want to make you feel good," She whispered, her voice husky with desire. "I want to watch you fall apart."
"Keep doing what you're doing," You breathed.
Natasha smiled and dipped her tongue into your folds, fucking you with her tongue.
You cried out, the pleasure almost too much to bear.
"Natasha, I'm going to-"
She didn't let you finish. She slid a finger inside you, curling it, stroking that perfect spot. The slight pain of being penetrated for the first time caught you off guard. You tightened your legs around her head, and Natasha groaned against you. The sensation drove you over the edge, and you came hard, crying out as the pleasure washed over you.
Natasha rode out the waves of your orgasm, her tongue lapping at your juices.
You fell back against the pillows, panting, the aftershocks rippling through your body.
"That was... incredible," You gasped, the words barely audible.
Natasha chuckled and crawled up beside you, her fingers still slick with your arousal.
"I hope that was okay," Natasha said shyly.
"That was... better than okay," You sighed, the pleasure still lingering. You quite enjoyed the ache between your thighs.
"So, that was your first time?"
"It was," You confirmed. "And you? You've never done this before?"
"No," She shook her head. "You were the first woman I've been with."
"So, how did you know what to do?"
"I told you," She replied, a smirk on her face. "I like to read."
"Books don't teach you how to do that," You insisted, shaking your head.
"I'm naturally gifted then," She shrugged.
"You're insufferable," You rolled your eyes, despite the smile tugging at your lips.
"I'm not the one who's insufferable," She grinned, leaning in for a kiss. You could taste yourself on her lips. It was erotic and intoxicating. You wrapped an arm around her waist, pulling her closer.
"I want to pleasure you too," You whispered against her lips. "Of the two of us, you're the one who hasn't had an orgasm before."
"Is that what it's called? What just happened to you at the end?" Natasha asked.
"That was an orgasm," You nodded.
"That's a strange name for it," She chuckled.
"Well, that's what it's called," You shrugged. "What would you call it?"
"I'm not sure," She said thoughtfully. "Something nicer than an orgasm."
"An 'orgasm' is a perfectly fine word," You laughed.
"It's not," She shook her head.
"What books have you been reading?" You asked, arching an eyebrow.
"Oh, the usual," She shrugged, feigning innocence. "Poetry. The Bible."
"You've been reading erotic poetry," You laughed.
"Perhaps," She winked.
"Then it's only fair that I should return the favor," You replied, leaning in for another kiss.
"I'd like that," She murmured.
You rolled her onto her back, taking the opportunity to explore her body.
Her skin was soft and warm, and she squirmed beneath your touch.
You trailed your fingers over her breasts, teasing her nipples. She gasped, arching into your touch.
"Do you like that?" You whispered.
"Yes," She breathed, her voice thick with desire.
You bent your head, capturing a nipple between your lips. You sucked gently, swirling your tongue around the hardened bud. Natasha moaned, her fingers clutching the sheets beneath her.
"Fuck," She swore, her voice cracking.
"Good girl," You smirked, the praise escaping your lips before you could stop it. Your fingers trailed a path down her body. She was soft to the touch, her body trembling under yours.
"Y/N, please," She begged, the desire in her voice evident.
"I've got you," You soothed, your hand moving between her thighs. You felt around the soft curls of her pussy,
"Fuck," Natasha gasped as your fingers brushed against her folds. You dipped a finger inside, finding her soaked with desire.
"I'm going to make you feel so good," You whispered, your voice full of promise.
"Please," She breathed.
You slid a finger inside her, and she moaned, the sound sending a shiver of pleasure through you.
"That's a good girl," You cooed, her pussy clenching around your finger.
"It feels good," She whimpered, her hips bucking.
"I know, sweet girl," You soothed.
You added a second finger, curling them, stroking that perfect spot. Natasha cried out, the sound echoing off the walls. You could tell she was close, her body trembling beneath yours. You kissed her quickly, swallowing her moans, hoping that one of the guards wouldn't come to investigate.
"I want you to come for me," You whispered, the words coming out as a command.
Natasha cried out, her orgasm hitting her hard. You rode out the waves, continuing to stroke her, drawing out her pleasure.
"Good girl," You praised, pulling her into a deep kiss.
"That was amazing," She gasped, the words barely audible. "Are you sure this was your first time doing that?"
"It was my first time doing it to someone else," You reminded her. "Though I'm sure you wouldn't like to hear about me and Akira."
"No," Natasha shook her head.
"Well, now we're even," You smiled.
"Thank you," She murmured, snuggling closer to you.
"I didn't do it for thanks," You replied, stroking her hair.
"Can we do it again?" She asked.
"Natasha," You began. You didn't want to disappoint her. She was still your brother's wife.
"Please, just once more," She begged, her eyes pleading.
"Just once more," You relented, unable to deny her.
"Good," She smiled, capturing your lips in a kiss.
"And after that?" You asked, breaking the kiss.
"We'll see where the night takes us," She replied, her eyes full of mischief.
You surrendered to her, losing yourself in the pleasure and the sin.
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bfcpub · 11 months ago
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How to Use a Book Earning Calculator: A Comprehensive Guide
Are you an author looking to estimate your potential earnings from your book? In this blog, we'll guide you through the process of using a book earning calculator. From understanding how it works to exploring the benefits of using one, you'll learn everything you need to know about estimating your book earnings with confidence.
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1. What is a Book Earning Calculator?
A book earning calculator is a tool that helps authors estimate their potential earnings from book sales. It takes into account factors such as book price, sales volume, and royalty rates to provide authors with an estimate of their earnings over a specified period. Using a book earning calculator can help authors make informed decisions about pricing, marketing, and distribution strategies.
2. How Does a Book Earning Calculator Work?
A book earning calculator works by inputting data such as book price, sales volume, and royalty rates into the calculator. Once the data is entered, the calculator uses a formula to calculate the author's earnings based on the inputted parameters. The author can then adjust the inputs to see how changes in book price, sales volume, or royalty rates affect their potential earnings.
3. Benefits of Using a Book Earning Calculator
There are several benefits to using a book earning calculator as an author. Firstly, it provides authors with a realistic estimate of their potential earnings, allowing them to set realistic goals and expectations for their book. Additionally, a book earning calculator can help authors optimize their pricing and marketing strategies to maximize their earnings. By inputting different scenarios into the calculator, authors can see how changes in book price, sales volume, and royalty rates impact their earnings, allowing them to make informed decisions about their publishing journey.
4. How to Use a Book Earning Calculator?
Using a book earning calculator is simple and straightforward. Start by inputting data such as book price, sales volume, and royalty rates into the calculator. Then, adjust the inputs as needed to see how changes in these factors affect your potential earnings. Experiment with different scenarios to find the pricing and marketing strategies that work best for your book.
5. Conclusion
A book earning calculator is a valuable tool for authors looking to estimate their potential earnings from book sales. By understanding how it works and using it to explore different scenarios, authors can make informed decisions about pricing, marketing, and distribution strategies. So, if you're an author looking to estimate your book earnings, consider using a book earning calculator today!
Click here to calculate your royalty- https://bfcpublications.com/royalty-calculator
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28harryssunflower · 25 days ago
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Gifts over gifts..
Harry Styles was known for being untouchable - cold, calculated, and always in control. To the rest of the world, he was the cold-hearted mafia boss who never let his emotions interfere with business. But with you? You saw a different side of him, one he kept hidden from everyone else.
That’s why, when you woke up to find a handwritten note on the pillow beside you, you were surprised.
Morning, love. Wear something nice today. Be ready by noon. Don’t ask questions.
You smiled to yourself, your mind racing with curiosity.
When noon came, a sleek black car was waiting outside your house, and a driver opened the door for you with a small smile. He didn’t say much, just handed you another note from Harry:
First stop: a little pampering. You deserve it.
The car took you to a luxury spa, where an appointment had already been made in your name. For hours, you were pampered with massages, facials, and manicures. By the time you left, you felt like royalty.
Another note was waiting in the car when you returned:
Second stop: your new favorite dress.
The car pulled up to a boutique you’d never been to before, and inside, a stylist greeted you with a smile. “Mr. Styles told us to make sure you found something perfect,” she said, leading you to a rack of stunning outfits.
After trying on a few, you settled on a dress that made you feel like the most beautiful person in the world.
The final note was waiting when you stepped back into the car, your heart pounding with excitement:
Last stop: me.
The car drove you to a private villa on the outskirts of the city, surrounded by sprawling gardens and glowing fairy lights. The sun was just beginning to set, casting the sky in shades of orange and pink.
Harry was waiting for you at the entrance, dressed in a tailored black suit that made him look like something out of a dream. For a moment, you almost couldn’t believe this was the same man who ruled over his world with an iron fist.
His usual cold expression softened the moment his eyes met yours. He stepped forward, reaching out to take your hand. “You look beautiful,” he said, his voice low and intimate.
“Harry, what’s all this?” you asked, your voice barely above a whisper.
“You’ll see,” he said, a small smirk tugging at his lips.
He led you to a table set up in the garden, surrounded by candles and soft music playing in the background. The two of you ate dinner, and Harry surprised you by opening up more than he ever had before - talking about his dreams, his fears, and how much you meant to him.
By the time dessert was served, your heart felt so full you could barely breathe. And then Harry stood up, reaching into his pocket and pulling out a small black velvet box.
Your breath hitched as he dropped to one knee, his green eyes locking onto yours with a vulnerability you rarely saw from him.
“I never thought someone like me could have this,” he said quietly. “A chance at something real. You make me want to be better, to be more than the man I have to be. I love you. And I want you to be mine forever.”
He opened the box, revealing a stunning ring that glittered in the candlelight.
“Will you marry me?”
For a moment, you were too overwhelmed to speak. The man who was always so guarded, so stoic, had just laid his heart bare for you.
“Yes,” you whispered, tears streaming down your face. “Yes, Harry, of course.”
He stood, slipping the ring onto your finger before pulling you into a kiss that was full of passion and love. And in that moment, it didn’t matter who he was to the rest of the world. To you, Harry Styles was just the man who loved you more than anything.
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