#screaming at myself internally knowing that i have to work in the morning

[cherriesandcharms]

second night in a row ive stayed up waaaaaaay past my bedtime bc my executive dysfunction is so bad i cannot get myself to move to go to bed

[anaalnathrakhs]

...i'm starting to wonder if i wasn't actually pretty often failed by the adults in my life as a young kid tbh.

[greeniegaes]

Thinking about Omega SQQ again sigh

Okay. So warning this is a male lactation AU so if you don’t like that don’t read, nothing explicit happens tho, just a guy and his pups

I imagine when he first goes into his body everything feels like he’s in haywire, constantly on edge and ready for a fight. Once he’s gotten the hang of things he uses his cultivation to try and simmer down his hormones.

Only to realize it was his cultivation preventing hormones that was making him feel like shit all the time.

So eventually he sighs and stops doing that. The first few days are bad, cramps and sickness and a general feeling of wanting to claw everyone’s eyes out. He gets through that though.

Then his breasts start to come in.

He knew PIDW has its weirder parts of omegaverse so he knew that this would happen. At first he starts binding his chest but that hurts SO SO SO much that he collapses on like the third day (he was also doing it improperly because it’s him, yk) and gets stuffed into Qian Cao

MQF: I was not aware shixiong was an omega

SQQ: I’ve only recently decided to stop holding myself back

MQF: it is recommended that you form a small pack of your disciples to help with your instincts and… that *waving at SQQs chest.*

SQQ: *screams internally.* Okay :)

At this point after like a week of just draining himself and going insane he finally gives up. LBH has already started living in the bamboo hut so he’s kinda the best option so he sits the boy down.

SQQ: Binghe, I hope you know this isn’t going to change anything but

LBH, thinking: oh my god no please don’t kick me out

SQQ: since this master has allowed his omega side back out he’s been struggling with his urges about thinking of his disciples like pups. If it’s not an offense to your character can I take some of it out on you

LBH, internally: YES YES YES PLEASE OH GOD YES I NEED IT

LBH, externally: If that would please shizun then sure :]

So they start a twice daily thing of in the morning and night LBH goes into SQQs room and his nest and gets feed. Apparently milk is hella good for the skin and shit because after a few weeks he starts to look flawless somehow.

And SQQ really wants to see his other kids- DISCIPLES flourish like that. He extends the offer to a close few and some look like they going to cry at the honor of their teacher wanting to take care of them.

LBH is still the main drinker and always wants to huff when he has to share, but he does it none the less. His Shizun gets really cute during feeding sessions, purring and chirping at them, fixing their hair and playing with it, scratching their scalp, the whole nine yards.

So LBH repays it by feeding SQQ more, which also makes him have more milk in turn. He huffs and complains at his body’s need to produce so much, his chest wayyy too heavy in the middle of the day to be comfortable, leaking and wasting everything.

He ignored that though, even if LBH and his other pups- disciples offer to help him.

Eventually after the Abyss his body is still making big amounts of milk because that’s what it was used to. Most of the time he just gets it out himself and pours it into the grass, often now also starting his other feedings.

Everything starts to get to him and he’s decided that staying on the mountain is no good. So he sneaks out, by himself, in search of something to heal his heart.

All the peak lords and disciples are going crazy, nobody can find him and nobody knows where he could’ve gone. Eventually while LQG is talking to a random villager out in a border town of their territory he sees SQQ again, arms filled with two pudgy babies and looking ever so pleased.

SQQ: Oh! Hi Shidi

SQQ internally: OH FUCK I FORGOT ABOUT THE SECT

LQG: where have you been???

SQQ: sorry sorry babies are hard work I didn’t want to travel alone with them

LQG, wanting to have an aneurysm but can’t: let me just help you home

On one hand the entire sect is so relieved that SQQ didn’t die of heartbreak over losing his favorite pup or get kidnapped. On the other hand SQQ??? Where’d you’d acquire those babies?? They aren’t yours, it’s only been 6 months!!

Anyways after SQQ is safely back in the sect he doesn’t see a point in leaving. I mean! Look! Look at his pups! So cute and round! One of them has little dimples!

The other peak lords carefully go to see what was going on, YQY opening the door to the bamboo house after being told to come in and all of them are just smacked with happy omega pheromones, SQQ gently cradling them both in his arms as he rocks in a chair.

At that point all of the peak lords decide that yk, maybe it doesn’t matter how the children were acquired. They were well feed and cared for and obviously SQQ was happy again.

(He got the children from a working in the WRP, she had wanted babies and all her sisters were supportive but then she realized she didn’t like being a parent but you also can’t morally just… dispose of a child. SQQ visited there once in his depression stoop and stayed for a few days after falling in love with the kiddos. Then he just went on an adventure with his babies and got distracted by the cool world building.)

[little-forest-goblin]

Wait….what?

Teacher!Five x Teacher!reader

Synopsis: What happens when a grumpy stern history teacher meets the new sunshine teacher?

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Five was grumpy you could say the least. Always annoyed and always on the students ass’s about their school work and their grades. You never saw him without a cup of coffee and without a suit. He taught an advanced history class and most left and went to there normal history within about 2 weeks of being there. He was not offended since he decided if they cant handle it then its best they go. Thats not exactly said with malice or mockingly just staright facts. Kinda like if you cant handle the heat get out of the kitchen. Well he was having a normal day sitting at his desk drinking his cup of coffee and walking around the classroom monitoring his students as they did their assignment. All was quiet and peaceful till you walked into his life. Litterally. You came to his classroom with a big smile adjusting your cat eye glasses and shirt “Hello, sir! if you didn’t know i’m new here and i decided to come introduce myself!” When five looked at you he swore his bones turned to jello and his cheeks heated in a tinge of pink and his heart went faster. He looked at you in awe for a second till he cleared his throat and in a stoic almost disinterested voice he spoke “Yes im aware of you. Im assuming you are Mrs L/N? The new art teacher?” Now normally he wouldnt give two damns about art but if this what would come with the art, a woman he could only dream of? hell he would fake an interest just for you. You smiled “Yes and you must be Mr Hargreeves! Oh how lovely it is to see you, Mr.” He chuckled nervously but pulled himself together enough to look like that grumpy annoyingly professional man “Yes it’s a pleasure” he tried to act casual. From that day forward he tried to hide his absolutely racing heart and the damned pink tinge on his cheeks. He couldn’t help but notice how sweet you were. He would never admit it but he would purposely walk past your art room to just catch a glimpse of you. Whenever you could catch him you would always tell him a good morning which would make him internally scream which was hidden behind a mask of stoicism and grumpiness.

On a normal Monday five had entered the teacher break room to get his daily cup of coffee only to find you already there pouring a little too much creamer for his liking into the cup. he quirked a brow and went to the machine and poured himself a cup of black coffee. “You oughta slow down there. Have some coffee with your creamer.” five had said without even looking up at her and focusing on his cup. you looked at him and smiled and put the creamer back in the employee fridge “There is coffee in it! i just dont like the bitterness of just coffee. Makes me feel like my tongue wants to shrivel into my body.” Five snorted a little at that and laughing a little. You went a little wide eyed “I’ve never heard you laugh before.” you looked at him with this sort of curious and wondrous look like a child inspecting a butterfly for the first time. Five went red in the cheeks and looked to you “Wh-what? I-“ he was gonna get a little defensive since he thought you might be poking fun but you interrupted “I like it.” you said as you never broke contact and sipped your cup and then smiled at him. He was taken aback at first but then he had a small smile on his face. You and him ended up talking for a long time until you guys almost ran late to get to your classrooms. From then on you and him would always end up finding some sort of excuse to be around each other and talk. His students tried to poke fun and joke with him about it but usually it was met with a glare which immediately would trigger a fight or flight response the usual response being flight.

Besides from getting a hard time from the students the teachers around them rooted for there unfolding story. They watched from the sidelines and listened in hoping that one day the word would be out that they were dating. Lets just say group chats would be filled with the gossip about ‘Oh look at how they look at each other’ or ‘She brought him cookies today for him to try and he looked like he wanted to carry her to a courthouse right then’. Her and five’s relationship was something people were waiting and watching.

Somewhere in near the end of the year you and his relationship was very close now. Talking to each other and laughing together. Five seemed to loosen up a bit though still the stoic strict man he was, he did let some things slide more now. Today was the last week of school he entered the teachers break room only to find you there. He smiled as he saw you had your overly sweet coffee creamer coffee and a donut from the donut boxes the principal provided for them. He came on over to the pot near you “I see your having a ball with your coffee and donut.” you smiled and chuckled and sipped your coffee “Yeah you should get one. the principal provided them to celebrate our good work throughout the year.” you said while smiling at him. he chuckled and set the pot back down “I think i am okay. Sweets in the morning will only upset my stomach.” he sipped his cup . You chuckled and nodded “That is understandable but one piece wont hurt you will it?” she said looking him in the eyes. Five felt his cheeks heat up at the eye contact and suddenly his mind was all flustered and foggy. God he could lose himself in you if you let him. You were so beautiful and he might as well be helplessly in love fool though he tried to stay focused it never did last long when near you. He snapped himself out of his daze and cleared his throat “Y-Yeah. One piece shouldn’t hurt.” he mentally kicked himself for stuttering. You smiled and you took a chunk of your donut and you don’t know why or what came over you but you brought it to his lips to feed him instead of, oh i don’t know, handing it to him like a normal person. You just couldn’t help it. It was not an unknown fact that he was handsome and getting to know him this past school year has been eye opening to who he truly is behind that mask of stoicism and grumpiness. Five was a little nervous but he didn’t oppose like on autopilot he took the piece between his teeth and lips and ate it. He couldn’t help but look at your flustered pink tinged cheeks and your beautiful eyes that held so much life in them. His own cheeks heated and his head felt like it was on cloud nine. Before he could even think properly he blurted out “I think i’m in love with you.” Your own eyes widened along with his own. Your heart raced and he about wanted to rip up the floorboards and crawl underneath and bury himself alive. You were shocked “Wait…what?” you had to hear him say it again. One more time. just once more. he immediately said “N-nothing!” and started hurriedly walking out. You followed behind “No, no what did you say!” he had such a red blush you woulda thought he had been sunburned “Nothing absolutely nothing go away!” you and him both walked past a group of gossipy teachers. “You just said you love me!” you yelled to him following behind him “No no i didn’t you’re delusional!” he cried out to you. The teachers had stopped their conversation and listened in on yours and giggled. One of the teachers Maggie smiled softly “Young love. What a wondrous thing.” another teacher chuckled and he said “Yeah in no time we will see them together.” another teacher sipped her coffee and said “Besides that y’all owe me 5 bucks each. I told you he would confess first.” the others groaned and reluctantly handed there 5 bucks.

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Hey guys! i hope you all liked this story! i hope y’all have a good day and i will see you in the next one! ❤️

[roseroro]

Autonomy / choices in Mouthwashing…

I’ve only played the game once this very morning but goddamn the THOUGHTS. Will replay for more insight now that I know what it’s all about. In the meantime:

Daisuke, the young last-minute intern. From beginning to end, his autonomy is non-existent. He didn’t sign up to be on the Tulpar, his mother did it so he’d stop “slacking”. Under Swansea’s supervision, he can’t make his own choices, and instead spends his time on pointless repetitive tasks that don’t give him opportunities for mistakes. (Mistakes being the only example of him having a shred of autonomy, when he ends up stuck in foam… he’s doing his best I promise 😭). Then, when Anya locks herself in medical, Jimmy orders him to deceive Swansea then to go into the vent. Even his (merciful) death is someone else’s choice, Swansea’s (who swings the axe) and Jimmy’s (who brought him to that point).

Curly, the captain. Originally in a position of relative power (still under Pony Express), Jimmy strips him of everything and frames him for the mess he created. Curly is left unable to do anything but lie there and let others decide what he needs, what he wants, what he feels… what he did. No longer truly seen as human, his two perceived states are (irritating, noisy) pain and (accomodating) silence - silence achieved through force, shoving painkillers down his throat. He can do nothing but witness the events, yet he survives to the end. Unable to get in Jimmy’s way in his state, he becomes his puppet, the conduit for Jimmy’s delusion about being the hero and fixing things. His life is Jimmy’s choice.

Anya, the nurse and only woman on the ship. Belittled, abused, and raped by Jimmy and pregnant from it, her bodily autonomy is taken from her. After the crash, she’s left to care for Curly (who was supposed to take care of her before the crash, but didn’t despite his promises), who’s also lost his bodily autonomy, but she can’t bring herself to, well, force painkillers down his throat. The parallel to her own suffering too vivid. She chooses her death as a last attempt at regaining agency over her life (and, of course, makes that choice next to Curly), but Jimmy ultimately forced that choice on her, as he did with the others.

Swansea, the grumpy old man with a heart. As Daisuke’s supervisor, he steals part of his autonomy - but unlike Jimmy, he does so with Daisuke’s best interests in mind. He’s a protector, not an abuser. He also protects the sole working cryogenic pod from Jimmy - not for himself, as Jimmy believes, but most likely for his protégé. That choice is taken from him by Jimmy, who uses his alcoholism against him. In the end, Swansea is the only one who is able to truly fight back. Unfortunately, Jimmy is in possession of the strongest authority tool there is - a gun. The gun that the powers that be, Pony Express, placed there from the beginning to deal with eventual mutinies. Swansea never had a chance or a choice in the face of such powers.

Jimmy, the abuser. At the risk of repeating myself, he abuses everyone on the ship, he craves control and authority, he uses people’s weaknesses to obtain what he wants. He ends up as the only person in a position where he can make choices at all. He chooses how he lives and how he dies, he thinks he’s the hero of the story. The second he thinks his freedom is about to be taken from him (when he is about to lose his job and have a child with the woman he raped), he snaps and takes everyone’s fate into his own hands, he would rather kill everyone including himself than lose control. Obsessed with taking responsibility, never actually doing it.

Screaming crying chewing on drywall how can a 2h30 long game have so much in it there’s SO MUCH TO SAY

[sturniolotrip-samandcolby-lover]

Matt sturniolo x Colby Brock X reader -

Dreams can come true

Summary -you are a youtuber and decided to do a lie detector with some friends for a video that leads to a confession and some very steamy actions

Warnings - smut ,oral sex m and f , threesome,protected sex , anal play ,choking,face grabbing ,hair pulling,spanking, dp (double penetration for all the innocent ones) swearing.If I've missed anymore else please let me know .Use of Y/N not proofread.

Word count -3k

Inspired by this photo

"Hey guys it's y/n here and welcome back to my channel , and if you're new here hi welcome .Today I'm going to be linked up to this lie detector here and my two friends here ,Matt and Colby are going to be asking me questions and I cannot lie .so if that's the sort of thing your looking for today is to see me probably embarrass myself then stick around".I say with a big smile into the camera hearing my two friends chuckling to themselves about the last part .

"Right you ready y/n " Colby asks as I get strapped in , I shake my head no in response with a small nervous laugh as him and Matt look at the pieces of paper that have their questions on .The pieces of paper that they have been keeping secret from me all day , I have no idea what they are but I just hope they don't make me blush Matt and Colby are both my friends but I've always seen them as so attractive, so when I had my dream about them last night I wasn't surprised.

*Twenty minutes later*

We've started getting towards darker and deeper questions . They've found out things that are bad but not too bad like how I admitted to peeing in the shower or biting my nails really badly as a kid .There's a pause before Colby asks the next question, he looks me deep in the eyes , I find my breath catching that I have to look away."Y/N have you ever had a threesome?" He asked I was shocked for a second "no" true I respond ."hmm" he says in response and looks to matt awaiting for the next question "would you ever have a threesome?" He asks.Shit shit shit I'm internally screaming, it's like they're mind readers with or they just knew about my dream last night I pause "yes" I say through a breathe true .Again the boys look at each other "so one last question y/n ...would you have a threesome with Matt and I?" I'm paused in shock , Colby said it so calmly that I can't even work out if I imagined it or not .I refuse to look either one in the eye "no" I say forgetting that the whole point of a lie detector is to show when people lie .Lie it says .I feel the boys glare at me , and I keep looking forward towards the camera not brave enough to look at them .

"Alright guys I'm gonna call it a day here , so thanks for watching if you made it this far .it's been interesting to say the least .Let me know if you'd like me to do another one of these.Please like , comment and subscribe and I'll see you next week ."I say as i turn the camera off.I show the man with the lie detector to the door and thank him again .I head down my long corridor towards the living and kitchen area where matt and colby are sat on the sofa.

"Anyone like a drink?" I say cheerfully as I walk past them avoiding their gaze .I'm stopped from walking to the kitchen by colby as his large hand wraps around my small wrist."sit down we need to talk" he orders.I oblige and sit between him and matt ."so about that threesome" matt brings up ,i go bright red instantly.colby notices "its nothing to be embarrassed about princess "he says , i shudder at this new nickname feeling the arrousal between my legs start to grow already I squeeze my thighs together underneath the skirt of my dress."tell me when was the last time you had a thought about a threesome with Matt and I ?" Colby continues .I take a shy breath "this morning...I ..I had a dream about it again last night" I stutter back in nervousness.Colby instantly puts his hand on my knee drawing small shapes on the exposed skin , I can't help but also think what else could his fingers do ."hmm well we have a proposition to make with you" matt speaks drawing my attention away from colbys fingers ."what's that" i say shyly."we give you what you dream , we've been thinking about it too" matt continues "so what do you say" matt asks .I nod my head in response "we are going to need to hear words princess if we're going to do this right" colby says with his husky voice ."yes" i say again more confident this time ."good girl" matt praises me " so since we're doing this properly we need safe word and whats your limits baby?" Matt continues." How about pineapple,and I don't really know my limits yet I want to see how far I can push them " i say looking him in the eye for the first time in what seems like forever.

"Good girl that's what we like to hear" Colby says with a small laugh." Now just let things go with the flow and you can say stop whenever you want to Princess , you're in control of it all " he continues.As he says this all his fingers move further and further up my thigh , I only noticed when his finger brush over my clothed pussy,"she's already so wet for us Matt" he says with a smirk .

" Sit on Colby's lap" Matt orders , I do as I'm told with it being very obvious already that I'm in for a long night and would be extremely submissive.As I go to sit on Colby's thigh , with Matt sitting in my previous seat .I'm distracted by colby kissing his teeth "actually Matt before she does that remember that she lied " he said in a teasing tone.i stand there in my dress Infront of the both , with them undressing me with their eyes ."you're right so she was a bad girl for lying" Matt replies "she should be punished " he continues."how about 10 spanks just to start off easy" colby says starring me in the eye " I agree" matt says."take your dress off "matt orders , i obey leaving me in just my damp underwear and bare at the top .

They both devour me with their eyes "good girl now get over here princess lay on your stomach over my knees " I do as I'm told "I want you to count for me okay?" Colby continues.

I lay there in what feels like forever awaiting the first spank ...*whack* "1" I say quickly the whacks continue until number ten *whack* "10 " I say , I'm now a moaning mess with my wetness now dripping past my panties .Colby rubs my sore cheeks praising me as I look up to already see Matt with his cock out resting on his stomach I'm surprised by his size .

Colby helps me stand up ,he points to a wet patch on the thigh of his jeans "look at what you done princess , you enjoyed that just as much as we did didn't you" he says rhetorical as he gestures to the tent in his jeans as I can see his boner being constricted.He reaches his hand up and pulls my underwear down , I feel so vulnerable I got to cover myself up when Colby grabs my hips moving me to now sit on his lap , I hiss at the instant sting of my reminder of my punishment."Put your legs on the outside of mine "Colby orders as I do to then he spreads his legs causing mine to be wide open and my bare pussy to be completely exposed.He uses his legs to trap mine between his and the sofa causing me to be in this spread open position with the choice to close my legs .

Colby's fingers dance around the top of my thighs "is this okay " he whispers in my hair , I respond with a yes .His hands quickly move to my pussy running his fingers between my slit "so wet" he says to himself , im already moaning slightly as he rubs my clit .I hold onto his right arm as something to do thats not going go cause rips."how about with that other hand you give Matt a helping hand" colby suggests , i do so i spit in my hand and wrap it around matts cock earning a instant moan from the shorter man .As soon as I start pumping Matt's cock , Colby enters two fingers into me , I'm a moaning mess and all the sounds that can be heard is my wetness , moans and Matt's moans.I watch Matt's face with his lips parted ,eyes closed and head back moaning my name .This sight and Colby fast rough fingers is enough and seconds later I feel my core tightened "ask" Colby says already feeling my orgasm coming "please please Colby can I cum , I need to cum so bad" I begged my head now resting on his broad shoulder "hmmm yes "he says after a pause " cum all over my fingers right now" that is all I needed before I'm a screaming mess withering around in Colby's arms .

I am completely oblivious as I open my arms I see that Matt is cleaning his cum off himself "did I do that" I ask exhaustedly with my head still resting on Colby's shoulder with his hands resting on my thighs comfortably."yeah, we came together" Matt says with a laugh .

"Let's carry this on upstairs "Matt says picking me up bridal style from Colby's lap he carries me upstairs with Colby following.Matt lays me down on my bed as both boys strip down so they're both as naked as I am ." Here's how it's gonna go y/n you're going to show us both what that pretty mouth of yours can do and then we're going to take it in turns to fuck both your holes do you understand?" Matt says so abruptly.I nod with a yes in response

I get on my knees at the end of the bed I take Matt's thick cock in my mouth swirling my tongue around the tip and bobbing my head down , I reach with my left hand pumping Colby's cock , his isn't as long as Matt's but it's alot thicker .I continue bobbing my head down both of their cocks , gagging , choking and tears running down my throat.I switch between wanking one off to sucking the other one until they're both moaning messes above me .

Matt removes my hand ,with Colby tapping my cheek in a way of telling me to pull off him.i look up at them both confused "we want to make you cum again before we do" Colby says at my confused expression."sit at the end of the bed baby ,I wanna do something"Matt says I obliged pulling my still weak legs to the end of the bed when Matt gets impatient and pulls my legs towards him he stand between them , towering over me .Colby sits on the bed next to be wanking his own cock I reach for his dick "you focus of squirting Princess" he says with a wink"I don't know if I can " I say quietly to them both, "don't worry baby I'll make sure you do" Matt says sweetly to me as he smacks my pussy lightly causing my leg to shake , he plunges two long fingers into me curling them at a fast pace it's less then a second that the room is full of sounds of my wetness "good girl"praises and my moans .I close my eyes as I start to feel my abdomen tighten when I shocked by the cool feeling of metal on my cheeks ."keep you eyes on mine when I'm making you cum" Matt orders , that's all it takes for me to be begging Matt "please Matt please" is all I can get out before he's nodding his head and I'm screaming while I squirt all down his hand .Colby holds me up as I come down .

I open my eyes at the loss of touch from Colby and Matt , to suddenly see Colby laying on the bed

With a condom already on his hard member and Matt standing with a bottle of lube as he rolls a condom onto his member , they came prepared for this ."you ever been fucked in the ass y/n" Colby says " no but ive had a finger , i liked it" i say blushing , "well matt is going to fuck your ass first and im gonna go second while i fuck your pussy , do you think you can be a brave girl and take us both princess"colby continued .I position myself so that Colby's cock is aligned with my pussy when I move down we both moan as he enters me , he gives me a second to adjust before he starts thrusting in getting me used to the feeling of him before Matt enters me from behind ."feels so tight for me y/n " Colby moans as he holds onto my boobs as they bounce .

I'm distracted in my movements when I feel Matt run his hand down my back , Colby stills inside of me "are you ready baby " Matt says I reply with a "yes" "come here princess rest you head on my shoulder let us do the work , remember your safe word " Colby reminds me .

I flinch against Colby as Matt squirts cold lube down my crack and rubs it around my puckered hole.I hear another squirt and await the cold but instead it's Matt rubbing lube down his condom covered cock .I feel a immense pressure and stretch as I let out tiny whines of pain against Colby's shoulder as I bite down on him .With Matt running his hands down my back and Colby's comforting words I start to relax and the pain slowly turns to pleasure.I give both boys the go ahead to move and soon enough they make perfect rhythms as one enters me the other pulls out.Matt grabs my hair and pulls it so im face to face with colby , he takes this perfect opportunity as colby wraps his hand around my throat " do you like this princess , these two cocks for you do you like having my hand wrapped your throat while you're getting both your holes filled" he says as he thrusts up into me ."I'm gonna cum "I say for the 3rd time tonight."we all cum together"Matt says "on 3" Colby answers "1....2....3"all 3 of us cum full of deep moans from matt and colby with a scream from me .I collapse against colby as he lifts me up quickly to get rid of his condom while matt does the same .I'm left trembling with no energy left in Colby's arms "are you done baby" he says to me I just nod my head in response "we'll call it a day" Matt says as he places a blanket over me and gets in next to me and Colby now with boxers on I was still completely naked ."But you didn't get my ass" I say quietly to Colby , he chuckled " there's always next time princess now you get some sleep we will look after you" he says stroking my hair .

[fazedlight]

Plummet (Cat's perspective on Falling)

Cat had started so optimistic. Kiera, finally dressing as an adult? It was a promising development for her executive-assistant-slash-vigilante, one that suggested the kryptonian could possibly grow a backbone in the near future. Goodness knows Kiera desperately needed to come out of her shell. 

Cat had ignored the… well, cattiness emanating from the blonde. A bit of cynicism would’ve been icing on the proverbial cake, had it not heralded something darker.

But when Siobhan marched proudly into Cat’s office, showing her the security footage of Supergirl letting a dangerous criminal go, Cat knew something more was going on. And this morning she used my personal elevator. Perhaps she’s truly lost her mind, Cat thought. “It could be another Bizarro,” Cat said to a disapproving Siobhan, “Put this under your hat until we figure out what’s going on.”

---

Kiera seemed to only get more haughty over time. “You’ve branded me in the media as a girl scout,” the kryptonian said bitterly. “Everyone knows real people have a dark side.”

Where is this coming from?, Cat thought. Psychotic break, brainwashing? Carter loved that old TV show with the star treks, and once spent an entire month talking about mirror universes. Was this an evil Kiera with an invisible goatee? “I fear that you're having some sort of mental breakdown,” Cat said, “Don't worry, it happens to the best of us-”

But Kiera snapped back. “You are the most arrogant, self-serving, mean-spirited person I know.” Tell me how you really feel, Cat thought to herself, but she had to admit that those words struck a little close.

But that hurt was very rapidly replaced by a more primal fear as the kryptonian approached her. “You want to see what powerful really looks like?” Kiera said, “Watch.”

---

They say your life flashes before your eyes. That’s not what Cat saw. Nor did she have a single coherent thought, other than Carter’s face and endless screaming.

Luckily for her, her assailant didn’t kill her. Cat collapsed inelegantly to the ground, turning back up in a panic as the scornful kryptonian stared down at her. “True power, Cat,” Kara scoffed, “Is in deciding who will live, and who will die.”

Somewhere in the back of Cat’s mind - a stray thought as she tried to calm her pounding heart - she understood. She has all this power, but she couldn’t save her planet. Kiera was just as frustrated at her own powerlessness; her history would be enough to cause anyone to have a psychotic break.

Unfortunately, it didn’t change what Cat had to do next.

---

“People are in danger,” she said to James and Winn, as she shared her plan for a televised broadcast on the kryptonian’s erratic and terrifying behavior, “The public needs to be warned.”

“Miss Grant,” James started, “Look, I am sure that Supergirl is going to be fine soon-”

“Can you guarantee me that the public is safe?”

James and Winn shifted guiltily. I know this isn’t her, Cat wanted to say, I know this isn’t who she is. But Cat couldn’t carry a death on her shoulders of someone who trusted Supergirl because of her words. And Cat suspected that Kara - if the girl ever recovered - couldn’t bear that guilt either.

But she hated every moment.

---

Is there any recovery from this?

Kiera had been a wreck at work that day, scurrying around the office with slumped shoulders and stressed eyes, avoiding Cat entirely. Cat supposed she was breathing easier now that Kiera was back to normal, but it still evoked the same question - What happens with Supergirl next?

As Cat walked into her office that evening - intent to pour herself a stiff drink - she was surprised to find a metal tube set on her desk, with a folded piece of paper propped up against it. “I’m sorry,” the letter read, in familiar loopy, feminine writing. “I wasn’t myself.”

Cat opened the tube, noting a strange green glow inside. Kryptonite, she realized, sighing internally at the thought of Kara entrusting her with this sort of protection. “I don’t want you to feel unsafe. If you want me to stop interacting with you, I will,” the letter read. Cat closed the tube, mulling again over her assistant’s state of mind. Sighing, she placed the tube in a drawer, pouring herself a drink as she had planned, before making her way to her balcony.

She shouldn’t have been surprised to see the super when she stepped out, but somehow she was. Kiera sat far from the door, quiet as she looked out onto the city lights. Cat knew the super must’ve heard her, but she didn’t face her - perhaps waiting for the sendoff she thought she deserved.

Cat stepped forward quietly, reaching the railing of the balcony. And that’s what gave Kiera the courage to speak. “I love this city,” she said solemnly.

Cat stood silently, listening to the kryptonian’s words - weighing the tender passion with the agonizing remorse. “What I did to you, Miss Grant-”

“Oh please,” Cat said, shrugging off. “I’ve base jumped Kilimanjaro, do you really think you scared me?”

Well, that was a lie, and they both knew it. “Okay, yes, you did scare me.”

“I scared the whole city,” Kara lamented.

“It’s not going to be easy,” Cat said. “But if anyone can win this city back, it’s you.”

Kara nodded gratefully, biting back unshed tears. “Can I just… stay here for a while?”

“Of course,” Cat said softly. 

In the soft breeze and the quiet night, the two looked back over the city, and wondered what was to come.

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

I found it a really weird writing choice that Kara never apologized to Cat - or didn't seem to understand the fear she must've instilled in her, after throwing her off a building - so I tried to fix it here. (I have thoughts on Kara's relationship with kryptonite, but I will spare this post of that ramble.)

[rory-multifandom-mess]

My Thad Headcanons

Because I'm so totally autism about him, you have no IDEA

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I took this from a fic I read, but Thad runs warm. By this I mean his cooling system likes to malfunction every now and then and he has to throw himself into a bunch of icepacks until it works again. If he overheats, he’ll shut down so it systems can cool down much like a phone would

He's self conscious about his sharp canines, but not in the sense that he’s constantly thinking about it. It’s more like a “if i look at myself in the mirror and see my smile, I’m going to remember they’re there and be like ‘oh. that’s not right.’” Because of his insecurity with his sharp teeth, he refuses to go to the dentist

The fact Uzi had a crush on him before meeting N absolutely flew over his head (he’s stupid)

He likes girls AND boys

Ever since the fight with J and V in the pilot, he coughs up oil on occasion. Basically; Worker Drones are stupid and don’t know anything about their own anatomy, so instead of trying to fix the internal damage, they just welded his wounds closed, so now he’s just perpetually internally bleeding

He heals pretty quickly and has a high pain tolerance (entirely because he’s a sports player, and also he heals quick because of the fact he runs warm)

Sometimes he’ll get nightmares about the attack with V and J and also when Solver yonk’d his ass in episode 2. These fucked him up for a little while after and he couldn’t sleep very well, but they’re not as big of a problem anymore

His room is usually surprisingly neat and full of trophies and medals and other various sports memorabilia

Gets really competitive during football matches, but has really good sportsmanship <3 like he’ll be screaming shit during the match and then he’ll lose and to the other team he’s like “good job guys you absolutely rocked it out there, but we’ll beat you next time i’m sure of it >:)” he likes a lil friendly competition

Thad and Lizzy are twins but he’s younger than her by like 2 minutes. She teases him for this. In retaliation, he teases her because he’s taller (by 1 inch)

Sometimes they get in trouble for ‘bullying” each other, but every time they do, Lizzy just says “Siblings are fair game!” and Thad nods

I think he says “no problemo” a lot. He also says other silly phrases like "Okie Dokie Artichokie" and calling things "Rad" and ironically saying" tubular." Lizzy says "This isn't the 80's" and then he responds with "Well the 80s were sick as heck dude so I don't care"

He's a morning person

Listens to highly energetic songs without paying attention to the lyrics, so he’ll listen to the most like. Innapropriate songs without even realizing it just because they’re bops

Gets dating advice from Ron (the drone at the door from episode 2 for those who forget the bg characters)

Yk how people will throw food like popcorn into the air and then catch it in their mouths? yeah he’s really good at that

Sometimes when he can’t sleep he goes out and plays basketball by himself. tires him out so he can eep

Has a nice singing voice, but he doesn’t think he does (i’m projecting)

He doesn’t like to swear, but sometimes jokingly says “I will swear word at you” to his friends

If he’s holding something, he’ll start idly just flip it in the air and catch it over and over. subconsciously too, he just does that

He also plays Soccer and Basketball

Sometimes when someone grabs him unexpectedly, he’ll flinch a little (thanks solver). This usually only happens if he’s been spacing out or doesn’t see the person who grabbed him at first

Chill until someone messes with Lizzy. Then he will fight. Though she’s one of the popular girls so it doesn’t happen often

Weak to flirting; he gets flustered easily. Yet he’s a total flirt when he likes someone and is comfortable enough around them

I like to think Thad gets hurt a lot because he’s a fucking football player and usually he doesn’t get it fixed because it’s normal, but Lizzy and/or Uzi will yell at him to get it fixed because it could fuck with the strength of his casing

One time Thad said “Bite me” to Uzi and she just looked at him like a smug cat while he had a moment

Sometimes he’ll try to hide in his collar when he’s flustered (it never works)

He, Lizzy, and Doll were a trio of best friends (Until Doll's Solver infection started getting really bad and began distancing herself from the other two)

[softie00]

SAFE

pairing; lee know x reader

warnings; fluff, cute bf minho, teasing, jokes, reader feeling tired and drained, use of jagi, going in nature, flowers, words of affirmations, kissing, very cute minho!!

word count; 1-2k

summary; you haven't been feeling the best these days, feeling drained as each day comes. but your cute boyfriend minho has something planned for you, hoping it'll help bring some ease.

a/n: something for myself and i hope for those who also have been feeling this way❣

Drained. You've been feeling this way for quite some time, not knowing why. The busy days at work, interacting with a bunch of people, making reports and handling all sorts of deadlines at once just makes you want to internally scream.

When was the last time you've had no interruptions? You probably don't even remember.

But you do know that once you reach to the comfort of your home, it stops. Seeing your beautiful boyfriend minho just brings you so much inner peace. It may even sound weird but whenever you struggle to sleep in the night time, you shift your focus fully on Minho's sleeping face.

How peaceful and adorable can one look just sleeping away? You've always thought angels only existed in heaven but how lucky are you to have one besides you.

Yes, only an angel could look this beautiful.

He isn't even aware how you thank those from above for delivering his sweet ass to you. A person who brings ease by just watching his face, being in his presence feels like a big warm hug, removing all kinds of negativity away.

You plant a kiss above his head, just before you fall asleep.

The routine begins once again. Getting up in the mornings are always the worst. Minho leaves earlier than you since his schedule is a lot different to yours. Though some days like today, you had wished to feel his lingering warmth right beside you for extra few minutes.

You gain the strength to finally get up and do your routinely quick shower, which has also felt like a chore. Once your done and you've put on your fresh clothes, you make your way down to the kitchen to have a quick little breakfast before you leave for work.

Just as you make your way to grab the milk from the fridge, a sticker note is placed above. You brows furrowed ahead before you read.

Wanna know a fun fact?

Octopuses have three hearts

And they still couldn't love you as much as I do ;)

If only Minho was here to see how hard you was smiling right now. Til this day, you're not used to him professing his love in various ways, almost immediately making you flustered. It's almost in sync when he does these things, particularly on the days you feel drained.

You love his silly little jokes and sometimes you question how he even comes across certain things but hey, it made you smile.

Like always.

You really needed to hear this today. Words of affirmations are so important to you and your boyfriend almost never fails to deliver. He really knows the key to your heart.

Oh Lee Minho, I fucking love you

Surprisingly your day wasn't as bad. It helps even more to know you have the weekend coming up, finally some break. But really thanks to your boyfriend's sweet words that instantly changed your mood for the day. Feeling a lot more loose.

You arrived at home as usual but was surprised to see Minho present. During the time at work, Minho cleaned up the place and made it look a lot more presentable. You appreciate his kind gesture as you were just about to approach him.

"Hey jagi, you're back."

Minho embraced you with his both arms, a warm feel arises as inhaled in this comfort. His fresh soft scented body wash still lingering over him, a scent that brings you to comfort.

"I missed you," You respond back. ever since the morning and even the past few days, you've missed having Minho around you for longer. But due to his work, he's been waking up a lot more earlier often leaving you alone.

"I missed you too, jagi." Minho replies, his hands squeezing you tighter. A part of him feels guilty that he hasn't been around much but he will change that very soon.

The hug felt like it just got rid of all your worries and distress of all them days you've had. If there is one place someone had asked you where you'd stay, the answer would be in Minho's arms.

Minho pulls aways first, causing you to frown but immediately plants a kiss to your head.

"Go get ready, we're going out today." Immediately you eyes open, surprised at his words.

"Where are we going?" You asked, part of you actually feels like a kid as the excitement grows. Minho watches your eyes for your reaction, just as he expected. They lit up almost in quickness, something he had missed seeing before.

"Somewhere, now go" He quickly brushes off. Only to make you get even curious.

"But-"

"Go. Now" He demanded.

"But where-"

"Jagiiii don't be stubborn please, just get ready. Pleaseeee" He begs sweetly, gently pushing you towards the door because he knows your ass won't stop questioning, which makes you giggle hearing how cute he sounds already.

"Okaaaay fine!" As you laughed to yourself getting inside the room.

You've been questioning Minho for the past 30 minutes and yet he still isn't giving up to tell you where you're both going. You look outside the car before opening up the window all the way down, letting the cool breeze hit your face.

How long has it been since you've just closed your eyes and felt some fresh breeze?

You almost forgot how calming it makes one feel. You breathe in and out, all thoughts of the days slowly becoming smaller and smaller until they are left to cease in your mind.

The feeling of nothing. No sadness, no anger, no frustrations, no worries, no stress, no nothing.

Just you being present, having the love of the life right beside you and some really cool breeze hitting your face.

This is what you've missed having.

You don't even realise that you've finally reached your destination, having your eyes still closed until Minho calls out.

"Jagi," He admires how peaceful you already look, his hand moves through the hair on your face, "We've arrived."

The sensation of his hands wake you up, not realising you almost fell asleep. You slowly opened your eyes and watched ahead. You have no idea what this place even is and before you even ask more, Minho already opens your door with his hand reaching for yours.

You don't remember when was the last time you've even visited nature. Nature was always a place you'd end up in whenever you needed a breather. Though these past few days, you couldn't even get yourself anywhere.

Normally you'd raise a comment on how much longer you'd need to walk. In places like these, it feels never ending.

You allow yourself to just feel. Let the wind fall through your skin, your hair as it flies away softly, let the birds sing to you and let the trees embrace you. Hand in hand with Minho, who seems rather ecstatic at the beautiful trees ahead as you both walk.

It feels peaceful.

As you both keep walking, there's fields of beautiful flowers that have blossomed, filling their love all throughout the way. Pink. It's such a pretty colour isn't it?

And before you could even say that, Minho beats you to it.

"Wow, I've never seen this many pretty flowers in my life." He says in amaze and you agreed, "Me too, they're beautiful."

Minho immediately engulfs you in a hug, like he's trying to protect you from something. "Jagi I think we need to hide you away from them," Which made you feel a bit confused to why.

They're only flowers. So harmless you thought.

"But why babe?" You questioned.

"Right well, you see how pretty they are right?" He explains as he goes on, "And how much space they've taken up?" Which you nod to trying to understand what he's coming at. "I fear them being within your presence they may end up taking away my beautiful flower, too."

Your heart melted. Stop. No. How much more cuteness can you take from this man?

"Minhoooo," you whined out, smiling like crazy, "Why are you cute and also are you actually jealous of a bunch of flowers-" you almost laughed.

"How could I not be! They also recognise beauty to, don't they?" He pouts cutely, and your heart is fluttering so much right this moment. You can't believe you've found someone who's this adorable.

"Exactly, so in that case," You grab on to his hand and move away from the flowers. "I'd have to protect my flower too." In which Minho immediately blushed with a cute smile creeping in. God, he is so cute when he gets shy too.

You both venture off until you finally stop to the end. The hills. You didn't realise you both had climbed all the way up here, which to be honest was worth it. You walk hand in hand, mouth dropping at the amazement of how beautiful this hill is.

It feels like your on top of the world right now. Seeing everything from above and below. The gorgeous fields that are formed within this place, the different type of flowers, the greenery. The people, the lights as you watch the city running in fast speed. Perhaps, you may have been on speed to. Not having a chance to actually slow down and just breathe.

Reminding you of the times you would often walk off to nature. Something you've actually missed doing. It brought you so much peace and only today you've realised how badly you needed to see this.

You don't realise when Minho has actually sat down, leaving you to fully embrace this lovely view on your own. He knows how badly you needed this and to be alone for some time.

Which you appreciate so much. You notice he isn't beside you and you make your way towards him, sitting down on the benches present.

You both listen and immerse yourself in the silence. Well not so much until the birds begin to hum, sending a lovely melodic sound to your ears. You don't know how long its been to just stay still. Quiet. No sounds of people nagging you, no one expecting you to do anything, just you two alone, in this world.

Allowing yourself to feel the earth for once.

"I'm proud of you."

Is all you heard as you break out of a trance. You look next to you as Minho watches you with intently with a soft look, his hands brushing above yours.

"I'm proud of you for existing today." The words seemingly hit your heart and before you could speak, he stops you. "I'm proud of you for waking up each day despite being tired of life. For taking a shower, for eating your food even on the days you don't feel too. For going in to a hell called work. For dealing with a bunch of humans that drain your energy and on top of the workload. For faking your smiles in order to show you're fine when really your crumbling inside. For gaining the strength to perform for people and society when all you want to do is hide. He utters, causing you to breathe slowly as you take in all of his words.

You smiled, with teary eyes, "Thank you so much Minho." You feel loss at words. No one in your life has ever seen you this closely to notice such things about yourself. No one. Not even your past lovers did.

But Minho? Oh, he's special.

Now you realise how Minho started doing more things at home, not allowing you to do anything. This goes to making food for the two of you, to cleaning up the place and washing up. Even those times where he would sneak into your showers, which you had thought was for other reasons. But no, you was wrong. Because each time he came in, he smothered your scalp with shampoo with his gentle finger tips, slowly massaging away the worries of the days. He picked up the soap and let his hands work through your body, all whilst he gave you kisses. It felt so comforting and you couldn't even think of anything else. It made it easier for you not to feel exhausted when you have him beside you.

And you never even thought of that, until today. Now.

Minho has always noticed. And he's always shown that through his actions.

Immediately you wrap your arms around him as you continue to sob, "I'm sorry I didn't even realise those things-" which he shuts you off right away.

"Listen jagi, you shouldn't need to apologise at all. It's my job and responsibility to care for you. I don't do these things out of pity, no. I do it because I love you, so much that I just want to make life easier for you." He breathes, "We can't control how we feel but what I can do is make things feel easier even if its little. And honestly this is so effortless for me because I love you. I want to care and do things for you." He emphasises.

You cry even more, letting your tears flow below him at his words. To be loved this way was always what you dreamed. You had thought these things only exist in movies, which only was proven wrong when you first came across Minho.

Minho removes your arms and faces you directly, brushing off the tears with his fingers gently, "Shush. It's okay. You're safe now. With me." He smiles, planting a kiss right above your lip.

You chuckled and leaned into the small kiss, placing your mouth on to his. His lips felt ever so soft.

You both leaned back to the bench, cuddled up just before Minho asks you something. "Jagi?"

"Hm?"

"I know you always love admiring my face, even right now haha. But am I that handsome that you watch me sleep too?" He teased watching how completely flushed out you looked when the shock runs through your body.

"Minho what the fuck-"

He did not just say that. Wait, how does he know you watch him?

"No no jagi it's completely fine. I'm just so handsome to look at, so I can't blame you," He smirked making you feel even more flustered. Great, cats out the bag now.

"This is so embarrassing" You screamed, trying to hide yourself away from him. How weird does that sound that someone watches you sleep? But you don't do it weirdly, it's just become an habit over the past few days. It just instantly makes you feel better and yeah.

You huffed as you got up trying to escape until Minho grabs on to your waist and pulls you down to his lap, "Why are you running away?" He looks further into your eyes. Even though you've been together for time, his eyes still feel so intense, reading through every thought in your mind.

"Hmm? Shy now?" He continued to tease you further, only for you to hit your palm against his chest. "You're unbelievable." You sighed out as you chuckled. "You know what, they shouldn't have dropped you down yet." You thought back to your whole theory on Minho, your boyfriend being a whole angel from heaven who accidentally fell.

Minho only looks at you confusingly before he laughs, planting another kiss on your cheek, "Who?"

You giggled to yourself, "Nothing." And kissed him on his cute nose, watching his puzzled adorable face.

"But jagiyaaaaaaaa."

copyright ©2023 softie00

[bangchansgirlsblog]

Maybe this is triggering but can I ask for 9th member x skz but the 9th member is at school in a shooting and skz are worried (I know this can be cringe or triggering so you don't have to do it if you don't want to)

Ride or die

- 9th member

Warning: shootings, angst, crying

Pairing: 9th member x skz

Summary: going to school and thinking you’ll never make it back home alive is scary.

Hey before you guys start to read this, this is a warning about the contents that will be in the story. If you find it uncomfortable please do not read the story.

-🩷

**

It was supposed to be a good day.

It was supposed to be a normal day.

I didn’t think at any moment in time I would be hiding in the janitors closet begging God to spare my life. Spare our life.

I thought these things happened in movies. I thought it was all just some type of glitch in the universe.

Boy was I wrong.

My legs were up against my chest. I could hear I.N’s breathing down my neck as I held him close.

My hand over both his ears as tears run down his face.

The heat of the tiny compartment made our bodies sweat severely and make our head spin in circles. All I could hear were terrifying screams coming from outside the door followed by loud bangs. Loud scary bangs.

Please God, Save us. Is all I was thinking about.

I look in his eyes trying to calm him down without saying a word. My body shaking terribly.

I wanted to go back home so bad.

It was dark in the closet. We were hiding behind some trash cans and the space was barely enough for one person but we had to make it work.

“Breath I.N. Breath.” I whisper to the young boy who was now looking like he was about to pass out.

“I love you,” he whispers making my heart break even more and making me worry even more.

“We’re going to get through this okay? We have too.” I whisper to him and he nods while shutting his eyes.

My phone starts to vibrate in my pockets and his does too. The non stop calls gets me to grab it out of my pocket to see who could possibly be wanting to talk at such a moment.

There couldn’t possibly be any network down here. So how? How were we getting calls?

I look at the name that comes up and see it’s our oldest brother Chan calling. The light of the screen slowly blinding me.

I look over at I.N who shows me his screen with our second oldest brother calling. Leeknow.

We couldn’t risk a phone call right now. Not at all.

“Turn it off.” I whisper to him and he nods quickly putting the phone away.

My hands intertwine with his.

The shots and screams getting louder and louder.

Were our friends going to be okay?

I let out a tiny sob not able to hold it in anymore and silently cry as we sat in the dark closet.

The smell of bleach started to cause a banging headache in my end.

Chan’s Pov:

At first when I saw that the school was calling me, I didn’t know what the problem was. The twins never misbehaved so I just turn it off thinking it wasn’t that serious. ‘I’ll just call them back later’ I thought to myself.

The boys and I were sat in the study room reading for our upcoming exams so automatically everyone was busy in their text books or computers.

I had dropped the twins off earlier and came straight back home in the morning and it was only 12:15 in the afternoon.

The calls kept coming in from all over and when I saw that they weren’t going to give up calling me I picked up.

“Hey this is bangchan I’m really busy-“ I say frustrated but was cut out with a quiet panicked voice.

“Hello sir? This is Yongsan International School and we would like to inform you that the school is currently under lockdown.” A lady says into the phone.

“Lockdown?! What do you mean lockdown?!” I get up from my chair which causes the boys to look at me. I furrow my eyebrows in confusion as I start to pace the room.

“I’m very sorry to say that there is a shooting in progress and if you could get down here as fast as possible that would very much be appreciated.”

“How the fuck do you let that happen?” I yell into the phone, “what type of school lets this shit happen?!”

“Channie hyung what’s wrong?” Felix asks worried obviously. I turn to the boys who were now staring at me. Eager to know what’s wrong.

The world goes quiet as I try to form the words to explain to my brothers that their little siblings were currently in a shooting.

Why would someone want to do such a thing to such innocent teenagers?

“T-the school, the twins- their school is apparently has had a shooting.” My phone drops out of my hands as I feel my body almost collapse.

“Hyung oh my God! Sit down please,” Changbin grabs a hold of me and slowly puts me back in my original sit.

“What do you mean the school is under attack?” Han voice books across the room filled with panic. He grabs the tv remote and turns up the news where we see the familiar place with many cop cars outside surrounding it.

“Oh my God,” Felix gasps before pulling out his phone.

“I have to get to Y/n or I.N some way!” I exclaim before grabbing my keys from the counter.

“I-I need to go right now..”

“I’m coming with you hyung. The rest of you try and get in contact with the twins. If they call let us know please.” Leeknow instructs the younger boys.

He was frantic aswell. Even tho leeknow was known as the less emotional brother whenever something went wrong you could tell how affected he was by the situation.

“Guys please be safe, please.” Seungmin tells us before quickly hugging us as we rush out the doors and get into one of the cars.

“Pass me my phone Lee, I’ll call Y/n you call I.N,” I tell him and he quickly gives it to me.

I start blowing up their phones praying that somehow one of them picks up and tells me everything is okay.

“They are going to be okay hyung. I know Y/n she’s strong she’ll protect I.N,” Leeknow says trying to make the situation better.

My chest ached. The constant fear of them getting killed in that school kept crawling up my back and the thought of them being terrified, probably hiding somewhere not sure what to do made me want to throw up.

“If something happens to them I won’t ever forgive my self Leeknow.” My voice quivers as the words leave my mouth.

He looks over at me and rubs my back for assurance.

“Nothing is going to happen to them I promise.” I didn’t even know how he was keeping his shit together right now. How?

The drive wasn’t long because of the way I was speeding. The roads were kind of empty and the weather was very foggy. It had rained in the morning but Seoul weather was always confusing.

“Okay let’s go, let’s go.” I quickly saying getting out the car not trying to slip on the slippery ground.

I look around trying to assess the situation. The school looks so gloomy and children were being wheeled out or were being carried out by people.

Some were frantic others were just quiet. As if in a trance.

The cops were surrounding a specific area. I run towards one of the parents who looked like they just saw a ghost. Her body trembling.

��Leeknow stay here and try and fine them, imll go ask what’s going on.”

“Be safe Chan.”

I quickly nod and run to the First Lady I see. She was wearing a coat and her makeup was smudged from all the crying.

“Excuse ma’am can you tell me what’s going on?” I ask the lady who was clearly not in the right mindset at all.

“They caught the guy but they are so many injured kids, non confirmed deaths yet” she gives me a small smile.

“Thank you,”

I run back to leeknow who’s searching for a sign of I.N or Y/n.

Y/n’s Pov:

I.N and I always were together in ever place and area.

We were always moving in twos. That’s how it worked. I.N and Y/n. How it always worked.

The world was moving in slow motion as me and I.N were holding eachother in the closet.

Being put in a position where you think your life is about to be ended in the most brutal way makes you think back and appreciate the little things. The things that mattered or didn’t.

“A-are they gone? Please tell me they’re gone Y/n,” I.N whispers causing me to snap out of my little trail of thoughts and come back into reality.

“I don’t know baby bread but I really hope so. Are you okay?” I ask him.

“Yeah just out of breath.” He whimpers.

“Shhh it’s okay, just breathe yeah?” He nods in response as we sit there for what felt like hours.

“Do you think Channie is outside waiting for us?”

“Yes I do, I know he is. I feel it.” The little hum that comes out of his mouth makes me believe that he actually believed me.

By the time everything had gone kind of quiet I pull out my phone to see a clock reading “6:35pm”

We had been sat here for 6 hours

No moving no talking just fear and shock.

A loud banging at the door causes us to jump and squeal in fear. Did they find us? Were they going to kill is now?

“This is the police call out of your in there!” A loud voice fills the room.

I.N wraps his hand around my mouth to stop the sobs from escaping.

His tight grip loosening when he hears the man’s voice.

“I-I’m going to check-“

“No you can’t Y/nie that so dangerous, you’ll get yourself killed. Imagine it’s a trap.”

“I.N we have to find a way to know what going on. The service here is horrible” I whisper back at him.

“But y/n-“

“I’ll be okay I’m just peeping through the door I.N trust me.”

“O-okay but if-“

“Nothing will happen, I promise.”

I give him a small nod before crawling to the door and looking through a tiny crack.

I see police officers walking around assessing the place and I see a man standing right outside in uniform.

“Oh thank God.” I whisper. The feelings of relief causing me to cry and sob.

“I.N I think it’s safe, I see police.”

“Are you sure?” He asks hesitantly crawling out of the hiding space.

“Yeah, let me go out first, here hold my stuff.” I hand him my back and phone before opening the door.

“Hey! I found her!” An officer yells causing me to jump in panic.

“Hey I’m not going to hurt you Y/n-“ he softly says reaching out to grab me.

How does he know my name? Why does he know my name?

“How do you know my name?” I ask the man.

“You guys have been hiding for more than 5 hours, we’ve been looking for you and your brother.” He says holding out his hand.

The hallways were empty. No sign of any kids.

“I-is he gone, the shooter?”

“Yes he is love and your older brothers are waiting for you outside,”

“Chan?”

“Yes Chan, where is your brother? Do you think you’ve lost him.”

I shake my head no before returning to the closet and pulling I.N out. His taller figure wrapping me in his arms.

“Hey I.N, I’m officer Chen. These guys are my colleagues. Should we go outside?”

I nod my head eagerly waiting to see my brothers.

“Please let’s go I need to see leeknow or Chan,” I quickly say. I grab my bag and phone from I.N’s hands because he also has to carry his stuff. We follow the cop who was checking in on us making sure we were okay. Never in a million years did I ever think I would find my older brothers in a frantic state. A crying state but that all changed today.

“Chan!” I scream and he looks up. His eyes in disbelief.

“Y/n?! I.N?!” My footsteps start to get quicker before I jump into his arms, I.N doing the same to leeknow.

“My babies oh my God. Are you guys okay? Are you guys hurt? I thought you guys died. My poor babies.”

“We’re okay, we’re okay.” I say tears running down my face. He wipes them with his hands and kisses my forehead. He starts examining me and asking me questions.

“Here you guys must be freezing, take my jacket.” Leeknow hands me his and Chan does the same to I.N.

“Oh baby girl you had be scared there you know?” Leeknow grabs me in his hands and kisses me all over my face.

“Please tell me you’re okay, please.”

“I’m okay leeknow I promise, I’m just happy I’m with you guys.”

“We need to take them to the paramedics to make sure everything is alright and if they are you guys can take them home,” the officer cuts out conversation short.

“Yes yes anything, go ahead.” Chan approves.

The officer nods and leads me and I.N to the ambulance where Chan and leeknow sit close by asking the lady so many questions.

“Yes and that’s it, you guys look good to go.” She looks at us sympathetically before putting away her gloves and turning to Chan and leeknow.

“They need to drink a lot of water and make sure they take in a lot of rest.” She tells Chan and he nods his head noting it down.

“Therapists for such situations should be also be taken very seriously because they are young they need all the help they can get to get over this trauma,” She also tell Chan who continues to ask more questions.

“So we need to get them therapists?”

“Yeah but that’s only if you see a change in their behavior. We don’t want anything bad happening to them mentally.”

“Right right. your right,”

“We’ll give you guys some contacts but right now, I want you to take them home and take care of them, are you there dad?”

“N-no I’m their older brother, our parents died a few years ago.”

“I’m sorry to hear that,”

“It’s okay, thank you tho.”

“You’re welcome and here’s my number,” she winks at Chan which makes him cringe but Chan being a people pleaser, he wanted to be polite so he took it.

“Chan?” I call for him and within seconds his by my side.

“Yes my love,” he says kneeling besides me.

“I love you so much and I love you so much leeknow.” I tell them both and leeknow turns his head away.

He was crying I knew he was and he didn’t want me to see that. I knew it.

“We love you too and you I.N. Should we get you guys home?” He asks while fighting the tears that were so clearly about to fall.

“Yeah.”

**

To the person that requested this: thank you so much for your request I’m about to make a part two if you would like :) cause I have an idea to complete the actual story if you would like!! 🩷.

[idlerin]

nonsense — 18. this is the tactic

you wanted to pull out your hair. slap yourself once, no, twice. it was stupid, this was stupid, why did you still have a reaction when you were around him? you didn’t want to, you didn’t want it.

“hi.” he greeted you, hi? after acting like he didn’t know you and not giving you proper closure for years he says hi? okay, but you don’t blame him much for acting like he didn’t know you at work, you did the same with him, it would be far more awkward if you acknowledged each other. but you were still far too irritated at him, as much as you wanted to act like he didn’t affect you anymore. he did.

unfortunately.

it was no secret.

you stare at him with pursed lips, before getting in your car— well technically kenma’s car but psh details details— preferring not to answer. with a hand on the steering wheel you take a deep breath before starting the car and driving away, not looking back. it was easy to look at him from afar like he was just another poster or billboard, it was more difficult when he was actually in front of you and talking.

instead of driving to the dorms you drove all the way to kenma’s apartment.

you take out your phone once you’re in front of his building, you find his contact number and call him, he answers after a few rings, “hey ken, i’ll be sleeping over,” you state, the guard on duty recognizes the car and you roll down the windows, waving at them, they were already familiar with you, letting you go in. you came over too much.

“thanks for giving me a choice,” kenma drawled. you hear shuffling in the background, you assume he was on his computer.

“i’m already in your building,” you say as you go to kenma’s designated parking space, parking the sleek gray car next to his other cars of names you cannot possibly remember. you stretch as you get off, yawning, you walk all the way to kenma’s unit half asleep.

you knock, you didn’t have to wait for long before you were faced with kenma’s bored stare.

“are you going to have a breakdown?” he asks as you step inside.

“how was work [name]? have you eaten yet? no, it’s are you going to scream and cry [name]?” you plop on the couch.

“are you?” kenma prompts, sitting down next to you.

“yeah,” you bury your face in your hands. “I’ll have to see him again tomorrow morning and it’s fine but it’s also not and i just want to scream.”

it was tomorrow morning.

kenma had to drop you off work because you were really not in the mood after staring off into space on his couch for a while before falling asleep last evening.

“you’re fine,” you state while getting off the car in kenma’s clothes that you borrowed, just some sweats and a graphic t-shirt.

“i didn’t say i wasn’t,” kenma says, handing you your bag.

“i was talking to myself,” you rub your eye to get the leftover sleepiness out.

“okay weirdo, here's your lunch,” he hands you a canvas bag, “don’t forget you have class at like 1pm.”

“yes, mother,” you smile, taking your packed lunch, “really, thank you, ken, you’re the best.”

he looks away, you knew he was getting embarrassed, he still wasn’t used to admitting he was affectionate, “yeah whatever.”

you smile as he prepares to leave to go to the uni and as he does, you shout, “love you!”

you watch as he reaches a hand out to flip you off.

yeah, everything’s fine.

because you have a brilliant plan.

you weren’t just staring off into space yesterday evening for nothing. you were also devising a very smart (you think so), and very effective way of not minding he who shan't be named. And it doesn’t just include you ignoring him anymore!

you call this, the tactic.

the tactic includes three easy steps you need to follow, all according to your very reliable mind.

1. always stay positive

“good morning, akane, riseki!” you wave and greet your fellow interns once you walked in the lobby, they just got here too it seems. they wave at you back just as cheerily, akane was holding a sheet of paper that you look at with curiosity.

“morning, [name] babe, they were giving us new assignments,i’m stuck doing paperwork today,” akane waves the sheet of paper then points to something on it, “it’s no fair! riseki gets to assist the camera crew and watch all the fun stuff.” akane glares at riseki on the side who was shrugging while drinking his water.

“can i see mine?” you ask to reach for the piece of paper, akane hands it to you.

“you’re with the production assistant.. uhm goodluck, friend,” akane pats you on the shoulder, knowing the assistant has a very hectic and difficult job.

your smile doesn’t falter, it still seems fun after all!

you were going to die.

“oikawa-san, do you need anything else?” the production assistant, which you know of as satoko-san, asks the bane of your existence as you stand beside her with a complacent smile holding stacks of paper.

haha no you’re not.. remember number one…

“no thank you, satoko-san,” oikawa flashes his award winning smile at satoko-san which makes the older female smile as well. no satoko-san, don’t fall for his charm too! you resist the urge to make a face at him.

“ah, oikawa-san, may i introduce you to one of our interns? this is [name],” satoko-san gestures to you, you make a tiny, forced wave.

2. speak to him only when necessary.

you bow, “nice to meet you, oikawa-san, you’re a very talented actor, i’m so glad i get to meet you!” i hate you i hate you i hate you.

oikawa gives you an unchanging expression, but you notice the slight twitch of his brow which indicates that he was amused, you hate that you noticed it, “it’s nice to… meet you too [name]-san,” he plays along.

you felt a tick on your forehead.

satoko-san smiles at you before turning to oikawa once again, “now we have to go, oikawa-san, enjoy your breakfast and wait for your makeup artist to come in,” she gives him one final bow and you copy her actions, quickly following after her when she leaves.

3. treat him like the famous person he is, like a nobody to you now.

the long first half of your day has now come to an end, now you must succumb to centuries (hours) of agony (listening to lectures). you’ve already thanked satoko-san and that you’ll see her again on friday, you have come to really like satoko-san since she’s pretty laid back despite all the stress upon her shoulders.

you’ve already said goodbye to akane and riseki since they were working for the whole day. now, you were outside and thinking about whether to just commute or call one of your friends to pick you up, only recently realizing you have no ride.

“do you have class?”

you freeze at the voice who snuck up behind you. why was he talking to you? no, more importantly, why was he even approaching you?

your back stiffens as you fake smile at the actor, “ah yes i do, oikawa-san.”

“you do know that we don’t have to act like we don’t know each other,” he hums, hands in his pockets, he must not be in the current scene if he was out here bothering you.

you look around before mustering up a reply when realizing everybody else was busy inside, “what are you talking about? i don’t know you,” you smile, gritting your teeth. hah.. remember number one.. “sorry if i came off as disrespectful, oikawa-san, please let me off this time!”

“[name]... i…” oikawa finds it difficult to find the right words.

“i’m going to be late,” you don’t let him finish before you start walking away. yes you were avoiding confrontation, yes you said you would avoid avoidance but hey you said that you won’t be avoiding him, partially.

you swear to yourself you’ll do the stupid tactics better next time.

masterlist — previous | next

✦ fun facts !

more like common sense, but we’ve never had much of oikawa’s pov yet

nonsense ! an oikawa tooru social media au

synopsis. you were oikawa tooru’s #1 fan, until you became his #1 hater. you hated him so much you went viral on twitter (accidentally) and literally became known as “the oikawa tooru hater”, doesn’t help that he keeps fueling the fire by subtweeting you. everyone is all in for this new drama. what isn’t known to the public, is that this particular drama’s been on hold for three years (him being your ex and all).

a/n — hope im not going too fast..

taglist is open ! + @kawaii-angelanne @ceneridiankaa @kittycasie @rukia-uchiha-98 @polish-cereal @kellesvt @rockleeisbaeeee @kashxyou @imsoluvly @jjulliette @tooruchiiscribs @littlefreakjulia @gomjohs @qualitygiantshoepsychic @mellowknightcolorfarm @konzumeken @migosple @kuroogguk @sangwooooo @katsu-shi @wolffmaiden @rijhi @2baddies-1porsche @yeehawcity @aishkaaa @crueldinasty @rintarousprincess @yyuiz @epeec28 @llamakenma @penguinlovestowrite @princelingperfect @hearts4faey @yoonabeo @pantherhappy @julia-1901 @godsbiggestmenace @angel-luv-04 @noideawhothatis @bethbat @natsvmie @luna-mothii @lylovw

[ameliaenya707]

We Cry Together

Chapter 8

You were difficult and stubborn. But this was just too much for him.

“No?” Keigo asked, water bottle still in hand as he quirked a brow.

“You heard me,”

He didn’t want to hurt you, he really really didn’t want to hurt you. So instead he did what came to his mind. Maybe it was crazy or whatever, he honestly didn’t care. He wasn’t going to let you die of dehydration in here. He needed to take care of you.

He needed to take care of you.

He huffed taking a small sip of the water and pining you down, ignoring the way you squirmed and kicked as he pressed his lips against yours, forcing your mouth open and moving the water from his mouth to yours, keeping his lips over yours until he heard you swallow before pulling back, keeping your wrists pinned to the couch with his feathers.

“Now you can either drink the fucking water normally, or we can do that until this entire bottle is gone. Which one is it?” He hurt a little when you started crying but he needed you to understand him, even if it meant using unconventional methods.

“Y-you’re sick,” You choke out a sob, trying to kick him off you.

“Which one, baby?” He says again. He wasn’t going to argue with you. It wasn’t worth either of your time. He had to stay strong, all so you could understand him. Where he’s coming from. He just wants you to love him again, or to at least fucking act like you tolerate him. He sighs, letting you choke on sobs and waste your energy.

He had feathers pining down both your arms, wrists, and ankles to the couch. Kicking him off was near impossible, leaving you only to cry and scream until your voice went and there was nothing left to cry about.

Once you came down he cupped your cheek, the fighting leaving you too tired to fully flinch away from his gentle touch.

“M’ not gonna repeat myself, Kay’?”

“I…I’ll drink the water,”

“See how easy that was, baby?” He smiled softly, pressing a soft kiss to your forehead and maneuvering you upright, still keeping you pinned down but in a sitting position so he could let you drink the water.

“L-let me go,”

“Sorry baby bird, I don’t know what you’re gonna do if I take the feathers off, you might hurt me or…yourself.”

“Heh didn’t think about the last part, thanks for the idea,”

He groaned internally. He was glad he was the person to kidnap you and not someone else because that attitude would get you killed by someone who didn’t care about you like he did.

“Don’t even start,”

“...Sorry…”

You were learning, better. He wished it wasn’t out of fear but he’d work on that later. He pressed the rim of the water bottle to your lips, tilting it back and letting you take small sips.

“Much better, having a dry throat isn’t fun baby, you gotta drink water. I bought it for you so make sure you have some, even when I’m not here.” He cooed over you, pulling the water bottle back once it was half empty and setting it on the floor next to the sofa.

“When are you leaving next?”

“So quick to get rid of me already?” He chuckled softly but stopped at the glare you gave him, sighing softly and shaking his head. “I’ll sleep over tonight and leave for work tomorrow morning, I'll come back tomorrow night but it’ll be late so you’ll already be asleep. Well at least I hope you’ll be asleep, you need your rest, birdie.”

He didn’t want you staying up too late, he knew you were more likely to get agitated if you didn’t get enough sleep. He’d always have to hear your little huffs and yawns when he woke you up to say goodbye before he went on morning patrol and gave you a goodbye kiss.

He could tell by the look on your face that you weren’t thrilled about him staying the night, but he’d most likely be staying every night. At least until you behave enough for him to take you back to his apartment again. He could deal with the little glares and scoffs, in small doses. Key word, small.

You tended to go overboard with the attitude when all he wanted for you was the absolute best. He was being patient and nice, for your sake.

“I want…food,” His eyes widened in surprise for the slightest second before he let out a small chuckle.

“Baby, you had your breakfast five seconds ago,”

“I don’t care, I want more. If you’re gonna keep me locked up like a damn dog I want food. Good food. And drinks other than water. I want hot water in the bathroom and a working fridge. I want you to get me my clothes. I want cleaning supplies and stuff so It isn’t so…gross in here. I want you to make it more comfortable.”

Your demands were fair he had to admit. He was planning on making it nicer for you but more gradually over time, not expecting you to immediately start requesting things.

“I well…Okay fuck, first off, I’m not keeping you locked up here like a dog.”

“Yes, you are,”

“N-No you have free will,”

“Can I leave? Can I walk around without you following me everywhere?”

Well, you had him there.

“Well…whatever, just…fine I’ll get you stuff, nicer things. Whatever you want, within the means I’ve already made clear.”

He didn’t miss the slightest ghost of a smile on your face, so he reached his hand out gently to touch your thigh. Testing the waters a little until you spoke up.

“Hands off!”

“Sorry…sorry,” He chuckled, his hands now back at his sides before he stood up off the couch. Leaving you still there pinned by his feathers looking bored.

“And I want something to do…like a card game or something, uno.”

“Uno’s a two-person or more game ya know,” Keigo laughed softly.

“I’ll play by myself…”

More chapters

[mixtape-racha]

it's a scream, baby! | hyunlix

chapter five: movies make psychos more creative

words: 2.01k // warnings: cursing, suggestive content, references to anxiety

OFFICIAL GHOSTFACE KILL COUNT: 003

after she climbed out of the shower, dressed in a spare pair of (y/n)'s pajama’s and towelling her hair dry, yeji walked carefully into minho’s room - which he’d happily offered her to have for the night as he was staying with seungmin anyway. 

when she walked in, feet happily taking in the softness of his rug, she was met with jisung perched on the end of the bed, scrolling through his phone. sighing internally, she came and sat next to him - she knew this was a situation she’d have to come to eventually, and now was better than never.

“hanji…” she started, placing a hand tentatively on his leg. “thank you. you didn’t have to stay and look after me.”

locking his phone and tossing it onto the bed, he turned to look at her, taking both of her hands in his.

“yej, you never have to thank me, okay? i wanted to. you needed someone and, as much as we both love (y/n), i don’t know, i feel like after all this time i’ve very equipped to understand what you need when you’re in a bad place.” he joked, a small smile appearing on his lips.

it had, in all honesty, been a long time since yeji and jisung had been alone together. 4 months, 3 weeks and 6 days to be exact, not that either of them were counting. their breakup hadn’t been particularly messy, just too many obligations not allowing them to spend time together and causing a rift to form in their relationship.

and neither of them could deny the way they couldn’t fall out of love with the other - as much as they had tried, and they definitely had. yeji threw herself into college work, pulling any extra shifts at her evening job, spending more time at home with her family. jisung, on the other hand, entered what his friends referred to as his “whore phase” - partying, drinking, promiscuous sex with whoever wanted him. it wasn’t ideal, or healthy, but it got him through the first month after the breakup.

having a mutual best friend in (y/n) also simultaneously made things better and worse. while they could check in with each other through (y/n), but the way they kept accidentally bumping into each other made moving on increasingly difficult. but they persevered. they truly did enjoy one another’s company, whether as a couple or as friends, and so they wholly agreed that spending time together with (y/n) with them was pleasant.

“i just– sorry for throwing myself on you like that out there. i guess you still hold a lot of comfort for me, and being around you really calmed me down.” yeji smiled, a small blush creeping across her cheeks.

jisung’s expression mirrored her own, hands unconsciously squeezing her own as a show of love. which, he had to admit, he really was still in love with her. and she was with him, which made their proximity so much more intense.

“i mean, i feel bad for it, but it actually made me really happy. not the situation, obviously, but the way you still seek me out to make you feel better. i’m glad i can still do that for you.” he blushed, eyes avoiding yeji’s own in case his words upset her in any way.

but instead, she cupped his cheek in her palm, her eyes turning to cresents as she looked at him with a level of admiration he hadn’t felt in a while.

“han jisung, you will always be like home to me. i still love you, dumbass.”

“and i love you, hwang yeji.”

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

when (y/n) awoke the next morning, head still fuzzy and in hyunjin’s warm embrace, she could’ve almost forgot the hellish experiences of the day before. for a simple moment, she felt like a normal college student – but the bubble was quickly broken by the settling of an uneasy anxiety in her stomach.

pulling herself away from hyunjin’s arm, she sprinted to the bathroom with the fear her anxiety was going to find its way out of her body and into the toilet bowl. never had anyone in woodsboro been so fearful to wake up in a new day, and all of a sudden every resident

 was triple locking their doors, only leaving when they absolutely had to.

it was absolutely hellish in every way.

by the time she woke up, everyone else had left the apartment - either for classes, or to accompany others on errands. it seemed after a double murder on the supposedly safest campus in the state, maybe even the country, no one wanted to be alone anymore.

she felt it was probably best to let hyunjin sleep in - he had no classes until late afternoon, and (y/n) had kept him up most of the night due to bad dreams and anxiety about yeji. heading to the kitchen, she flipped the kettle on, opting to wake herself up with a coffee and a shower to start her day.

her first class wasn’t until 1pm, so she had time to take her morning routine slow and relaxing as possible. she sat at the kitchen island nursing her mug of black coffee, almost in a sleep-like transe staring at the wall. almost exactly as the clock hit 11am, hyunjin stumbled into the kitchen, a smile gracing his lips as he caught sight of (y/n).

“morning, love,” he mumbled, placing a soft kiss on her head and rubbing her arms softly. “did you sleep okay? i was a bit worried that you weren’t in bed when i woke up.”

she smiled softly, shrugging her shoulders as she took a sip of her drink.

“just couldn’t stay in bed anymore, and didn’t wanna wake you. think i’m gonna shower in a minute, though.”

“no worries, angel. i’m gonna head out in a second though, okay? i have some errands to run before classes, but call me if you need me at all and i’ll be right here, yeah?”

(y/n) nodded, still a little out of it and drowsy, before puckering up her lips to offer hyunjin a kiss - which he of course accepted. they had decided the night before that it wasn’t the right time to start a relationship. they had everything a relationship did anyway, but the label wasn’t needed at that moment in time. which, in all honesty, (y/n) was elated that hyunjin understood her perspective and was respectful enough to agree to give her as much time as she needed.

saying goodbye as hyunjin grabbed his belongings and left, (y/n) drew herself up from her seat and trudged back towards her bedroom to shower and prepare her bag for the day. as much as she wanted to take her time getting ready, she rushed through her shower so she could sit on her bed and watch youtube videos for as long as possible before needing to leave.

as she locked up the dorm and headed towards the elevator, she felt her phone vibrate in her back pocket. pulling it out, she flipped the screen on to see a message from a privated number. weird. who would be messaging her from a private number? unless one of the guys lost their phone and used a friend’s or something.

pressing on the notification, she was greeted with a strange message that sent a shiver up her spine.

‘watch your back, princess. people are keeping secrets from you, and sometimes shadows in the dark will hurt you the most. –  👻’

what the fuck?

who the fuck was messing with her like that? was it one of the guys? no, they wouldn’t fuck aroun like that after seeing the state of yeji yesterday… maybe someone hanging around outside yeji’s building?

whoever it was, it was not okay. but being mature, (y/n) chose not to entertain it. to not justify it with a response. and, just to be on the safe side, she decided not to tell the boys… not yet anyway. theres was no need to worry them too bad.

but the anxiety settled in her chest and stayed with her all day. she kept zoning out during classes, having to say it was a lack of sleep when asked what was wrong. she wasn’t even sure how she managed to walk between classes, to the library, to study for 2 hours. she had no clue how she’d ended up back in her dorm at 7pm to be greeted with jeongin making dinner for himself and (y/n).

it turned out minho was staying with seungmin again, even though yeji and jisung had vacated his room, so jeongin thought it would be a good chance for him and (y/n) to have some good food and catch up on some shows they’d been watching.

she truly did appreciate the thought, happily joining him to eat a feat of bibimbap and bulgogi, and watch trashy tv of insanely attractive people joining a reality show to find ‘true love’. it was refreshing, to be at home with jeongin and not worrying about anything.

except, deep down, she was.

by 10pm, (y/n) had excused herself to her room - claiming to be exhausted, and having a headache coming on, which honestly wasn’t too far from the truth. jeongin, being the ever so loving roommate and friend he was, offered to come and check on her later, but in all honestly (y/n) just needed some time alone.

within an hour, she heard jeongin shut down the tv and head to his room, but the silence was worse than anything else. after the text she had received earlier, she couldn’t think about anything else.

every noise felt intensified, every door slamming across the hall had her ready to call the police. even worse, she had begun to feel like she had left it too long to tell jeongin - or any of the guys - about her ominous text without them disbelieving her.

just as the adrenaline had worn off and she was truly ready to fall asleep, (y/n) heard a noise that had her shooting up out of bed and grabbing the closest thing to her to use as a weapon. she could have sworn she just heard the front door open. it couldn’t be minho or jeongin - they would’ve messaged to say they were either getting home or leaving.

surely, jeongin would’ve let her know if he had someone coming over too. but he didn’t, and so fear was washing over (y/n) harder and harder by the second.

hearing quiet footsteps crossing the dorm, and disappear down the hallway, (y/n) cracked her door open the slightest, looking for any sign of movement. seeing a shadow down the far end of the hallway, seemingly headed toward jeongin and minho’s room, she grabbed her phone - the emergency service number up and ready to call at any given second.

upon hearing a door creak open, she headed out of her room, running silently across to the kitchen to grab a knife. taking careful caution to not make any noise, she braced herself before tiptoeing down the hallway down towards jeongin’s bedroom. she couldn’t survive if she heard him being hurt, so she concluded on apprehending the intruder before they could attack first.

rushing towards his door, (y/n) took a deep breath ro prepare herself for the worst when opening the door. knife clutching her hand, blade held out ready to swing if and when required, she squeezed her eyes shut before swinging the door open and screaming…..

only to be met with two familiar screams reverberating back at her.

opening her eyes slowly, (y/n) felt like her heart was going to mump out of her throat. looking like two deer in headlights, jeongin was straddling chan’s lap, both boys shirtless on jeongin’s bed. on closer inspection, (y/n) could see that chan’s lips were swollen and jeongin had budding marks appearing on his chest and neck.

“nah, man what the actual fuck–!”

taglist: join taglist here @pretty-racha @chubbyanarkiss @queen-klarissa @queenfelix @taeriffic @mits-vi @myeg1993 @lemontead @peachessandhoney @chanssmiles @changbinisabigboy @5kayzee @skz-streamer @bunniieesstuff @iweirdthingsblog @sinforsuccubus @bunniie0325 @torixx80 @fawnpeaks @bangtanmix73 @savluvsmingi @boi-bi-ahaha @moondustmemories @4evrglow

[c4rb0n4t3d-d34th]

Heyhi!

Just a warning, im writting a book and im about to post a snippet of it! It has darker themes such as:

- parental abuse/neglect

- bullying

- alcoholism

-schooling

-mental health struggles

-polyamory (eventually)

- self harm and suicide (eventually)

-unconventional relationship(eventually)

-romantic and sexual themes(eventually)

If any of that is not your jam or you aren’t in the mind to hear about it please dont read further! Get a drink and snack and take care of yourself!!

That being said. Heres a snippet of my work in progress book “our toy.” Enjoy.

•

•

Bex’s pov:

I wake up, drained. I hear my mother screaming and glass breaking, she must be drunk already. “What time is it?” I groan and check my phone. 5:30am, I read the clock again making sure I was right before getting up and getting ready. I transfer schools today. Leaving glencreek and going to norburrow is going to be rough. Not that I have friends at my old school, its just.. familiar you know? I know what to expect everyday when I walk in those doors. Norburrow I have no idea what to expect. Pushing past my nerves I slip on black jeans and a black and white striped hoodie. I slip on my converse and grab my backpack. Taking a deep breath I open my bedroom door and walk into the living room. Empty beer bottles scatter the floor, mostly broken. My mother is nowhere to be found which means she’s probably passed out in her room. I quickly and quietly step out of the house and head to the bus station, hoping not to wake her. Once there I sigh a breath of relief and try to shake off my anxiety. The bus comes not long after my arrival and I step on, seeing its mostly empty I sit down at a random vacant seat. Scrolling through my phone I check my schedule over and over, nodding I slip my phone back into my pocket and stare out of the window, eventually zoning out.

I feel the bus come to a halt and I look up, snapped out of my thoughts. Were here. I take a deep breath and grab my bag before exiting the bus. The concrete stairs leading up to the door were scattered with students talking amongst each other. I ascend the staircase and push past the doors, the clock in the hall tells me I still have 30 minutes to talk to the office and get to class. “I can do this” I tell myself internally. Not daring to mutter a word externally. I find the office and knock on the door before gliding up to the front desk. “How may I help you?” A bigger blonde woman with way too thin drawn on eyebrows asks me “i'm the new student, bexley warner?” I say, voice shaky. “Ah, yes! Bexley, here it is!” She nods while clicking around on her desktop. “Do you have your schedule? Or do you need it printed out?” She asks quickly after. “Can you print it?” I mutter, not wanting to cause any inconvenience. “Of course! One moment.” She says before getting up and walking to the printer not far behind her desk. She grabs a paper as the printer spits it out. Checking over it before handing it to me I nod and mutter “thanks.” Before waving and quickly walking out.

First period is history, second floor, room 2304. Sounds easy enough.. I hope. I find the staircase and follow it up to the second floor. Seeing the room number that matches the one on my schedule I walk in, still a few minutes early. I see the teacher at his desk and he greets me “good morning! You must be the new student, bailey?” He asks with a hand stuck out for a handshake, I weakly shake his hand back “bexley.. but yes” I say, voice shaky and barely above a whisper. He nods and notes it mentally before releasing my hand and letting me sit down. I sit down near the back of the class, just after the middle rows but not far enough back that im in some bully kids seat. I just hope no one already sits here..

Moments later students start to flow in the classroom each taking their seats and chatting to their friends. No one tells me to move, or that i'm in their seat so far, so I sigh softly and zone out, drawing in a small sketchbook. “Um. Who are you? And why are you in my seat?” A feminine voice startles me out of my trance and I freeze. I spoke too soon. I look up and meet eyes with pure ice. Her light blue eyes are cold and fierce. Her blonde hair in a tight bouncy ponytail, the white and tan cardigan covering most of her baby pink skirt. “Hello?? Earth to fuckface??” She blurts out. I stand up, shaking harshly “i-i'm sorry I didn't know anyone sat here.. im sorry.” I mumble out, voice shaking just as much as my hands. “ yeah well I do. Get out, now my seat probably has fucking aids thanks to you.” Her words cut like blades on my skin. This school wasnt going to be any better them the last. Great. I walk over to an empty desk at the back, on the opposite side as the ice queen’s desk. I quickly sit down and take a deep breath, trying to calm my nerves. I see the girl talking with some guys, they look athletic. Maybe football? I dont know but they look mean. They are flirting back to her and she giggles. I look at the teacher and listen to his lecture as I jot down a few notes. Eventually the bell rings and I see everyone get up and file out of the classroom.

I check my schedule again for the next class. Great. Math. Luckily its on the second floor so I dont have to go far. I read the room number as I grab my bag, 2028. Ok, I can do this. I head out and quickly find my class. The teacher greets me and her sickly sweet perfume burns my nose. I sit down in an empty seat and pray no one sits here. The last of the students file in and take the surrounding seats. I hear a deep raspy yet feminine voice beside me “yo loser, you new??” I turn and meet eyes with her, shes tan, her dark brown eyes and chestnut hair pair well with her skin tone. She looks athletic too, shes really buff. My hands shake as I nod in response. She scans me, looking me up and down before smirking. “I can tell, the girls are going to love you.” What does she mean by that? What girls? Love me? No, no. I stare blankly at her and she doesnt explain. “Nice talking with you toy, but I gotta run.” She takes the seat a couple rows behind me and I exhale a breath I didnt know I was holding.

“Ignore her, thats alessia. Shes a bitch but shes strong and can fight so no one dares say anything to her.” A voice speaks lowly beside me. I turn and see ashy blue hair and dark blue eyes peering back at me. The boy smiles “im elias by the way, but you can call me eli.” He states. “Bexley, but call me bex” I reply softly. “He nods and sits up in his chair, “nice to meet you bex, I dont really talk or hang out with anyone so you want to eat lunch with me after class?” I smile faintly at his question and nod “id love that eli.” In mutual agreement we break the eye contact and look up at the teacher whos now pointing at numbers on the board. Following along with her I take notes. The bell rings as shes passing out homework. “Homework due next week!” She calls out as students leave the room.

I look up and eli is gathering his things, waiting for me. I grab my bag and stand up to follow him to lunch. “Ready to go?” He asks. “Yeah, ready as ill ever be.” I state. We start walking and he looks down before asking “do you not like lunch?” I let out a soft laugh and shake my head “no but I don’t exactly pair well with crowds of people.” He nods and his eyes flash with a new idea “how about we sit in the library? Way less people and alot quieter.” I smile and nod. “lead the way.” I say. Following eli we make our way to the library, its quiet and peaceful. Barely anyone else here. He points at a table with no one at it “want to sit there?” He asks. I nod and follow him to the table, taking a seat next to him he pulls out a laptop from his bag. “What for?” I question. “Im recoding a website, wanna see?” I nod and he turns the screen towards me. Rows and rows if numbers letters and strange characters line the screen. “Wow that looks hard..” I Say, completely Confused at what im looking at. “It isnt once you get the hang of it!” He smiles and I return it, smiling back at him before pulling out my sketchbook and a pen and doodling away. “Whats that?” He asks and I look up at him before looking back at my page. “Nothing really, just doodling.” I shrug. He looks closer at the paper “no bex this is REALLY good” he enunciated the word ‘really’ as he talks “youre really talented bex are you joking? Can I see more of your work?” His question catching me by surprise, I nod and he flips through my sketchbook. Gawking at each page he stops at one of them and his eyes grow wide. “Can I.. take a picture of this one..?” He asks and I look at the page. Its a drawing of two random characters I drew a fee month ago, I notice they roughly resemble eli and I. “Yeah sure why not?” I say taking a sip of my water. “Thank you, I really like this one!” He beams. I smile at him, happy that he likes my work so much. A voice breaks our bubble “what are you two doing in here. You are supposed to be in the cafe, are you not?” A prestigious female voice asks harshly and I wince. Eli looks up and his eyes go wide “s-sorry president! We will be going now.” He starts packing his bags and looks at me with a “hurry! Pack!” Look, I quickly pack up and follow him as he scurries out of the library. “President? Whos that? What just happened?” I ask looking back at the long black hair of the girl we’d just been busted by moments ago. “Thats the student council president, vanessa. If you get on her bad side she can expel you herself!” He says still clearly shaken up. I nod as we walk to the cafeteria, eventually deciding to sit outside. Warm breeze of spring keeping us st the perfect comfortable temperature. The silence between us was content but anxiety racked through us both and I could tell.

After awhile the bell rang and the next period was starting doon, I look at my schedule, art, thank fuck. Third floor, room 4702. I jump up and look at eli. “I have art, what class do you have?” He looks up at me from his spot on the bench and smiles “tech class, its down on the first floor. See you after school though?” I nod and wave him off. “See you!” I rush quickly to the stairs and scale the two flights the room at the end of the hallway. i walk into class and check in with teacher, she was super sweet and smelled faintly of jasmine and lemongrass. I sit down at one of the large table, each table having four chairs I get my sketchbook out and keep working on the drawing I started at lunch. As the kids piled in class each taking seats with each other at neighboring tables three familiar voices came through the door, all in a conversation together. Every single one of the girls that were mean today were here. All at once. I hold my breath when I feel their eyes burning holes in my side. “What are the odds.” Alessia chuckles “this was the toy I mentioned earlier girls.” She flips a chair so the back rest is infront of her, sitting down in it across from me. The other two sit next to her amd next to me. “Are you that freak who sat in my seat this morning?” The blonde retorts. “Youre the student from the library.” Vanessa laughs coldly. “So you all met our plaything?” Alessia asks the girls. “Not really, I never asked his name. He sat in my chair! He was trying to give me aids or something!!” The blonde huffs out “relax chloe. He definitely doesnt get any kind of action.” Vanessa throws out. So the blonde girl is chloe.. the president is vanessa.. and the athlete is alessia? Noted.. vanessa continues “tell us your name student.” I tremble and look down at the table “bexley.. or just bex..” I hold my breath as my eyes start to water. Dont cry. Not here. “Bexley? Isnt that a girls name??” Chloe asks while giggling. “Y-yeah I guess so..” I agree, not wanting to start anything.

The class starts and the girls fall silent as does the rest of the class. However, chloes eyes have yet to leave her phone screen. The teacher talks about an assignment and I listen eagerly. I dont show that i'm eager, but it laces my body sending waves of excitement through each limb. The teacher passes out white papers and everyone starts getting to work. I get my paper and before I can put my pencil down my paper is snatched “h-hey!” I say and gasp suddenly, realizing I shouldn’t have said anything. “What, have a problem?” Alessia asks with an arched brow. I shake my head and look down at the desk. How am I going to work in this class?? Im screwed. I want to go home. And that says alot because I hate home. The rest of the class the girls make comments here and there about my looks or lack of worth. I sit there silently, taking each insult. “Say something fuckface!” A paper ball hits my face as chloe snorts and giggles in her seat. “Nice aim clo.” Alessia snickers. “While I applaud you on your skills clo, it was still cliché.” Vanessa says as she rolls her eyes. “Nessa youre way to serious, cliché or not it was totally funny!” Chloe pouts. Just one more class and ill go home. I just have to get through one more class. The chatter amongst the girls is deafening, eventually I was able to tune it out and zone out. Im slapped back into reality, literally. A sharp pain floods my cheek and I jump and look up “are you fucking ignoring me right now bitch??” Alessia questions. “N-no! S-sorry!” Fuck that hurt. First day and im already getting hit. Great. “Tell me where youre going after this class, freak” she demands as she slams her hand on the table I jump and hand her my schedule shakily.

She scans over it and shows it to the other girls “you have science next. When the last bell rings ill be outside the class. Dont think about running early.” Alessia states with no room to argue, not that I would argue with her. The other girls nod and chime in “we will join you ale!” I feel dizzy and nauseated, I hate this fucking school already. The bell rings and everyone leaves for the last class, I stay behind a second to get a new paper to finish the assignment before scurrying to my last class. “Lets get this over with.” I say in my head.

Walking into class and repeating the process all over again, see the teacher, sit down, hope no one sits here, zone out. The class goes by rather fast, the clock ticking down to my inescapable demise. I force myself to take a deep breath. I can do this. Ill do whatever they want and go home. Itll be quick. The bell rings and with trembling hands I pack up and step out of the door to see the three girls I dreaded seeing. “Good listening. You know whats best for you bitch boy.” Alessia spits out and I stay silent “youre coming with us.” She states as she grabs my arm dragging me beside her “o-ok” I croak accepting my fate. Vanessa grabs my other arm and im dragged to a private classroom by the girls while chloe follows behind us closely, each step making her blonde hair bounce. The shuts and locks the door once everyones inside and I dont make a sound or try to run. I try to keep my composure, not wanting to cry infront of my new tormentors. “W-“ I take a deep breath “why am I here?” I ask my voice shaking and weak. “As you may know, im the student council president. I have the authority to kick you out of the school entirely if you disobey any order given to you.” I gulp as vanessa speaks “before you got to this school I saw your student profile. I was aware of your arrival and knew youd be different then other transfers. That being said when alessia told us about you being in one of her classes I knew it was fate. You will listen to any and every command any of us make, that is, if you want to stay at the school.” She finishes her speech and im left terrified, I cant go back to that school. Everyone hated me there, I was pushed and shoved, put into trashcans, you name it. I take a deep breath and nod “o-ok. Ill do it.” I say, voice broken and barely above a whisper. “Good. Itll be easier for you that way. Hand over your phone.” Alessia states. I scramble to pull my phone out of my pocket before handing it to her. “Password?” She asks, voice filled with annoyance. “080117” I squeak out. She unlocks my phone and I tremble. What is she looking for? What is she going to do? I see her typing and passing my phone around to the other girls, watching them type as well. They hand back my phone and I slip it into my pocket weakly “we put our numbers in there so we can text you at anytime if we need something done.” Chloe chimes out “oh! And we all have your location so you cant hide from us!” She continued. I nod, not fighting against it. “I send a message to your mother letting her know youll be moving to the dorms.” Vanessa says. I freeze, “w-what?” I ask with a broken tone. “You heard me. Tonight you will pack your bags and move into the dorm house. Alessia, chloe, and I will be there to pick you up at 10pm tonight. Be ready.” She finished and turns to walk out, the others following. I have no choice, im fucked. Im so fucked. left in the empty classroom with nothing but my thoughts I grab my bag and rush to the bus station. Checking my phone its already 5:30, the next bus is at 6. I take deep breaths, calming my nerves. Mother wont care, she will be too inebriated to even take notice. That means I have no one to stop this and only 4 hours to pack.

The bus ride was quiet and empty, I get off at my stop and walk home quickly. My phone chimes and I pull it out of my pocket.

V: 4 hours. Pack quickly.

B: I just got home, starting to pack now

V: dont be late.

I sigh and walk into the house, b-lining it to my room and tossing my bag and phone on the bed. I pull out my old suitcase and get to work. Pulling out all my clothes and putting them neatly in my suitcase. I grab my blanket and stuffed dog and place them in there too. My stuffed dog is my comfort item, I named him milo and I sleep with him nightly. Moving on I pack what I can and check the time 8:30. Fuck I need to hurry. Grabbing my art supplies I slip them in my backpack along with my medications and headphones. I sigh and finish putting my stuff where I can before hearing another chime of my phone. I grab it and see messages from alessia this time.

A: dont eat. I made dinner and you will be eating it.

B: ok, I wont eat.

A: we will be there in 30 minutes.

B: im ready.

I gulp and grab my phone charger, putting it in my bag as my stomach growls. Was this going to be my last meal? Were they going to poison me? I shake off my fears and hope they are wrong. I grab my bags and put them by the front door. I pick up the shattered glass and deer bottles from my mother and go to find her, knocking on her door softly I hear her grunt. I open the door and speak softly “im about to leave for the dorms now, just wanted to let you know.” She groans “ok whatever just go.” I nod and close the door before a loud bang and the sound of shattering glass makes me jump and wince. I quickly check the time before heading outside. 9:45. im on time. I grab my bags and walk to the bus stop, once there I pull out my phone. Chloe messaged me.

C: we r on the way! Better not b late! X

B: im at the bus stop, im packed.

C: *chloe liked the message*

I exhale a breath I didnt know I was holding. Im walking into my death. Her texting mannerisms are sweet but they are laced with venom. I pass the time thinking of a better life, zoning out like I always do. What would life be like with a loving family? Would I be happier? Having a group of friends, laughing and making memories. What does it feel like to enjoy going to school, to enter the doors and not get bullied? How much better would life be if I wasnt so.. me?

I hear a car pull up and I snap out of my thoughts. The backseat passenger window rolls down. “Put your shit in the trunk!” Chloe yells. I walk to the back of the expensive looking car and load my bags in the back before shutting it and getting in the backseat drivers side. All three girl were in the car, vanessa driving, alessia in the front passenger seat and chloe in the back with me. My nerves surge through my body, my body shaking intensely. The car drives off with me inside, sealing my now not so distant future. My stomach growls again and I pray no one hears it. The car ride was around 20 minutes and when it was finally over the car pulls to a stop in a small gravel parking infront of a Victorian looking building, it looks like one house, not a school dormitory. I suppose thats why vanessa said dorm house and not dormitory? I dont have time to get lost in thought though. The girls exit the car and I follow, grabbing my bags before I joining them. They open the door and the house is gorgeous yet terrifying. Everything about it looks like a home. Somewhere a family should live. “The bedrooms are upstairs, your room is the last on down the hall.” Vanessa says and I nod. Walking up the wooden staircase I follow the long hallway, doors line the way to the door at the very end. I open the door and it creaks as it moves. Stepping into my new room theres a bed, a nightstand, a desk, and a closet. I sigh, maybe this wont be so bad afterall. Aside from the tormentors now living under the same roof as I. Setting my backpack on my bed I pull out my phone charger plugging it into the wall and connecting my phone. I unpack most of my suitcase and all of my backpack. “Dinners made. Get down here.” I hear alessia shout. “C-Coming!” I rush down to meet the girls. They sit around a large wooden dining table, I sit down in an empty seat and they pass around a bowl of noodles, carbonara? I take a helping of it, putting it on my plate when the bowl gets passed to me. Next the garlic bread gets passed around and I set one on my plate. Eventually a bowl of assorted vegetables is passed too. Spooning some onto my plate I exhale. “I do not want vegetables!” Chloe shoots out. “Eat some chloe. Youre short enough as is.” Alessia retorts as vanessa snorts, trying to hide her laugh. I stay silent, not wanting my presence to become the attention. I eat my food once I see one of the other girls start eating. So far so..good? Nothing seems to be poisoned, or at least not yet. And im not being attacked yet. I continue eating, still confused about what my life is turning out to be. I finish my food along with alessia and vanessa, chloe still poking around at her vegetables. “Take the dishes to the kitchen and wash them. Spotless.” Vanessa says, looking at me. I nod and collect all the dishes taking them to the sink and start to wash them. In the other room I hear alessia speaking “chloe eat the damn vegetables!” Chloe lets out a long whine and pouts “I dont want to!” I hold in a laugh and finish cleaning. 30 minutes later chloe comes in with an empty plate huffing like a child she slides it in the sink. I stay quiet as she stomps off like a toddler, quickly cleaning her dishes and putting all of them away. I wipe down the counters and turn to meet eyes with alessia. I never noticed just how tall she was. She looks about 6ft, towering over me. Im pretty tall, I think. Im 5’9 and pretty lanky. “If youre done you can head to your room for the night.” She states and I nod before walking iut of the kitchen and up the stairs to my room.

Exhausted from the day I plop down on my bed and let myself sink into it.

[leclerqueensainz]

A Family of Three (C.L 16) - Part.I- Discoveries, Reunions, and Surprises

Paring: Charles Leclerc X OC!Marie Anderson

Synopsis: Charles and Marie ended any chance of a relationship years ago. They just didn't expect to have to share custody of a child after the death of their best friend.

⚠️ Warnings: Mention of death and murder, swearing, Charles being a little aggressive in his reactions, mention of sex and drug use. (This chapter may contain triggers!) (+16)

**In this story, Jules Bianchi died in 2019, not 2015, which changes some facts in the careers of the drivers.

A.N: Hello! How are you doing? After a long time, I finally brought Part 1 translated into English! Remembering that English is not my first language, so there may be some mistakes! I tried my best!

Feedback is always welcome. Let me know if you liked it!

Word Count: 7.882

Read the prologue here!

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January 15th, 2023 - Milan, Italy

"Good morning, Marcella!" I greet my secretary as I enter the office. "Any news for me?" I ask the blonde girl who is sitting with her eyes fixed on the computer in front of her.

"Good morning, Marie! And...HA! I did it!" Marcella suddenly jumps, startling me. "I'm sorry! It's just that I managed to schedule the meeting with Fred Lacroix for next week." She says, trying to compose herself, and I smile."

"That's great! You're amazing," I say, leaning over next to her at the table and taking a peek at her computer. "Do you think he'll be in a good mood? He's not exactly known for being pleasant when it comes to selling and buying his art," I ask and Marcella just shrugs.

"I don't know, and honestly, I don't worry about it," she says, and I can see a smug smile spread across her face. "Either way, we're awesome! We always get what we want," she finishes, and I laugh at her enthusiasm. 

I agree with Marcella. We are awesome and always get what we want when it comes to work.

After Jules died, I moved from Monaco to Italy. I felt like I needed to leave it all behind, even if it meant burying a part of who I was with my past. I needed a fresh start, and I closed my eyes to my old life. I had nothing left in Monaco. Nothing held me back or was even worth staying for.

I needed time and a new life, and that's exactly what I found when I came to Italy, where I was able to enroll in arts just in time to continue the school year. And a year and a half later, I graduated and started interning at one of the best galleries in Milan. Shortly after that, I realized I had a lot of potential for curating and dedicated myself to the field, of which today I am still a part, with the highest success rate in recruiting and selling new artists.

Today, I can say that my life is more than comfortable, and I spend so much of my day occupied with work that I hardly have time to think about everything I left behind a few years ago.

"Ah!" Marcella screams and catches me off guard, making me take a few steps back.

"Oh my god, Marcella! You're going to kill me, girl!" I say and put my hand on my chest, feeling my heart skipping like crazy.

"Sorry! I just remembered you got a letter this morning," she says, and I swear my confusion is written all over my face. "I mean, you didn't really get it, it's more like 'they passed the envelope under the door while we were closed, and I stepped on it when I got here'," she says and pulls out a crumpled white envelope with a half footprint on it. "I tried to clean it up, but as you can see, it didn't go very well. Seriously, someone should clean the streets of Milan more," she says and hands me the envelope.

I examine the envelope to find the sender, but I only find "Marie Anderson" written in delicate handwriting.

"There's no sender. That's strange." I say and Marcella nods.

"I thought it was kind of creepy too. I mean, who still sends letters In 2023? Isn't it easier to send a message on Insta? Or like, an email?" I nod my head and shrug.

"Well, let it be," I say and start walking towards my office. "Please let anyone who wants to speak to me know to leave a message. And that includes my mom, okay?" I say and Marcella nods. "Great, thanks," I say, entering my office and closing the door behind me.

I throw my bag on the desk and sit in my chair. I analyze the envelope in my hand again and for a moment, I feel a strange sensation as I stare at it.

"Okay, let's end the suspense, Marie," I say to myself and I grab a staple remover from the pencil holder, passing it over the glued part of the envelope.

Opening the envelope, I take out a sheet of paper with the same handwriting as the envelope, and two photos of a little boy with dark hair and eyes who I swear I've never seen before, but who somehow seems very familiar to me. I turn over the photos to see if there's anything written on the back.

"Vincenzo. 24/12/2021" 

Was written in one of the photos. The little boy was sitting next to what looked like a Christmas tree. I took a look at the next photograph, where the same boy, who seemed a bit older, was sitting on a mat surrounded by toys. "Vincenzo. 19/12/2022."

Feeling even more confused and with a strange sensation spreading through my chest, I picked up the letter I had left aside on the table and began to read it.

France, January 2nd, 2023.

Marie,

I can't even begin to tell you how many times I've thought about how I would write to you. You don't know me, and to be honest, I don't think anyone in his circle of friends and family has even heard of me.

My name is Cecilia, and that's all you need to know about me right now, aside from what I'm about to write to you next: I was engaged to Jules Bianchi.

I know this is strange and perhaps even unbelievable, but it's true. Jules and I had a brief but passionate love story. I loved Jules, and I can say that he loved me too.

Two days before his death, I found out that I was pregnant. I gave birth to Vincenzo on December 24th, 2019. He was a healthy and strong little boy, very similar to Jules.

I loved him from the moment I found out he was growing inside me. The result of something so pure and beautiful, from my relationship with Jules.

I know it's a lot for you to process right now, but so that you can know that I'm telling you the truth, there are two photos of Vincenzo. I want you to look at them and see Jules, just as I do every time I look at my son.

"I've been wanting to write to you for a long time. Jules saw you as a sister. I'm sorry I hid this from you and his family too, but I was so afraid. Afraid of rejection, of being seen as a liar. I couldn't go through any of that. I only had Jules, and after he left me, there was no one else I could trust, so I've been raising Vincenzo alone until now, but I don't think I can do it anymore. Vincenzo has a family besides me. And I need him to grow up knowing that he is loved.

I promise I to explain everything you need to know. Please meet me at the café where you used to meet every time you came together to Nice. January 18th at 4 pm.

- Cecilia.

My hands tremble as I put the letter back on the table.

What the hell is this? Is this some kind of sick joke?

I take the two photos back in my hands and stare at them, now realizing why I found that boy so familiar. It was Jules. That boy is the spitting image of Jules.

But how is this even possible? Why didn't Jules tell us he had someone? That's not like him. Jules was always an open book to us. He told us everything, just as we did with him. He wouldn't hide this from us...would he?

With my head swimming with questions and my heart heavy as lead, I found myself shouting Marcella's name, and less than a minute later, her short locks appeared through the door.

My hands tremble as I put the letter back on the table.

What the hell is this? Is this some kind of sick joke?

I take the two photos back in my hands and stare at them, now realizing why I found that boy so familiar. It was Jules. That boy is the spitting image of Jules.

But how is this even possible? Why didn't Jules tell us he had someone? That's not like him. Jules was always an open book to us. He told us everything, just as we did with him. He wouldn't hide this from us...would he?

With my head swimming with questions and my heart heavy as lead, I found myself shouting Marcella's name, and less than a minute later, her short locks appeared through the door.

"Yes?" She asks before looking at me for a moment and entering my office complete with a worried expression. "Are you okay, Marie?" She says kneeling by my side.

"Book a flight for tomorrow morning. I need to go to France."

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January 18th, 2023. - Nice, France.

I stare again at the clock hanging on the wall above the counter of the small café. 3:45 PM.

15 minutes. Just 15 minutes until I could find out who Cecilia was and why she decided to contact me now, after all this time. And why me? Yes, Jules, Charles, and I were always very close despite the age difference. But why reach out to me? If she intended to introduce the boy to Jules' family, why didn't she contact Christine or Philippe?

I hadn't seen Jules' family in a long time, we didn't even exchange messages. I left them behind when I decided to move on to Italy. They were buried with my past in Monaco.

The bell on the entrance door rings, indicating that someone has entered the premises. My head quickly snaps toward the sound.

And it's like in one minute, everything I struggled so hard to forget and leave behind comes back with force and without control like waves of a tsunami.

Standing just a few meters away from where I'm sitting, my gaze meets Charles'.

Charles. My ex-boyfriend whom I haven't seen in almost four years. The part that hurts the most from my past, besides the death of Jules.

He looks different. So different from the last time I saw him at Jules' funeral. This time he's not dressed in mourning black, no. He's wearing casual clothes, dark jeans, and a moss green sweater with the word "FERRARI" stamped in black. There's a scruffy beard on his face and his eyes...damn. The eyes that last time reflected so much hopelessness were now more alive, but still with certain traces of concern.

Charles walks up to where I'm sitting, his steps quick and wide as if he wanted to corner me before I could escape again. He stops half a meter away, and his gaze curiously roams over me. His expression is stern but also covered in doubt. I bet that, like me, he wants to understand why I'm here.

"Charles..." I'm the first to say, my voice low and uncertain. He nods slowly, his gaze still fixed on me, as if he wants to uncover all the secrets I gained during the years we were apart.

“What are you doing here, Marie?" he asks, direct and determined, without any hesitation. It's a tone I would have never expected to hear from the Charles I left four years ago. Yes, he really has changed.

I wished I could answer him with the same intensity, but honestly, I don't think I could. There's so much going on here and my head is spinning with so many questions and emotions. Why is Charles here? What the hell is going on? Did he set all this up?

"Is this some kind of joke? Because if it is, I swear to God it's not funny," he says, his tone now rough.

I sit there staring at him, completely confused.

Charles runs his hand through his hair, messing up his brown locks even more. He sighs heavily and closes his eyes, his tongue quickly passing over his lower lip. He used to do that all the time when he felt anger or frustration. At least that hasn't changed.

"What are you doing here, Charles?" I ask, and he opens his eyes, once again staring at me.

Charles's hand reaches into his back pocket and pulls out an envelope identical to the one that was left for me in the office in Italy. The difference is that I can see that this one was addressed to Charles, only his name, and also without a sender.

"Please tell me it wasn't you, Marie," he says as his eyes shift from the envelope to my face. I look at him with all the sincerity I can muster and answer, "No, it wasn't me." He nods his head, his expression softening a bit. He moves and sits in the vacant chair in front of me, his hands going up to his face to rub it.

"Jules has a son," he says.

"I know," I reply.

"Charles lowers his hands and stares at me once again, confusion etched on his face. Before he can say anything, I reach into my bag on the table, open it, and take out the white envelope. Charles looks at my hand for a moment before reaching over the table to take the envelope from me."

"You got one too," he says, not looking at me, even though it's not a question,  I nod my head in agreement.

"It seems she arranged to meet with both of us. I think it's easier if we hear the story at the same time, that way there's no risk of getting the wrong versions," I say, and his gaze shifts from the envelopes on the table to me.

"Do you think it's a lie? That the boy isn't Jules's son?" he asks seriously, and I just shrug in response.

"I believe it could be Jules's son. I just don't know why she waited all this time and why she chose us. Obviously, we're not the best people to show Vincenzo that he has a family on his father's side," I say, and I see Charles's jaw tighten.

"We were friends with Jules. He trusted us," he says, once again his voice sounding rough.

"It seems he didn't trust us enough to tell us he fell in love," I say, and immediately regret it.

I look at Charles and if we were part of a cartoon, he would have flames in his eyes.

“You don't know what happened. You don't know his reasons, just like me,” he says through gritted teeth. “Don't doubt his motives. Not when he's not here to defend himself.”

In all the years I've spent by Charles' side, I've never seen him so angry. And if I didn't know him, I'd be scared.

But do you still know him? I silently ask myself.

"That's not what I meant," I defensively reply. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean for it to come out that way. Of course, Jules had reasons and we'll find out when Cecilia arrives." Charles relaxes his jaw and adjusts in his seat.

I look at the clock on the wall again. 4:10 PM. She's late. I look at Charles, a little anxious.

"Do you think she's coming?" he shrugs, but his hand goes into his hoodie pocket and pulls out a cell phone. 

"She's late," he states what I already know. "But I think so, she's coming." Charles carelessly tosses the phone onto the table, his anxious fingers fidgeting with his rings.

"Congratulations on the runner-up, by the way," I say, trying to ease both of our anxieties, and he looks back at me.

"Did you follow the races?" he asked, a little surprised.

"Yes," I admit, somewhat embarrassed. "My secretary is a huge Formula 1 fan," I add, which is not a lie. 

Like all Italians, Marcella is a devoted Tifosi. And even though I wanted to leave everything I knew behind, I couldn't escape one of the most beloved sports in Europe, especially in Italy, the home of Ferrari.

Charles lets out a low laugh, his look adopting the expression of a mischievous boy. Oh no.

"Your secretary, huh?" he says with a teasing and suggestive tone.

"Ah, shut up, Leclerc!" I say, trying to sound serious but failing when I let out a laugh. "I'm serious! My secretary is a diehard Tifosi. She can't shut up for a minute about Ferrari and makes me watch all the races," I say, shrugging.

"Yeah, yeah... And I bet I'm your 'secretary's' favorite driver, right?" he says, making air quotes with his fingers and having a smug smile on his face.

"Actually, she prefers Sainz," I say, and instantly his smile turns into a serious expression, which makes me laugh.

Soon, Charles' dimples appear on his cheek and my heart skips a beat at the sound of his typically somewhat flawed and exaggerated laugh. Oh, how I enjoyed hearing that horrible but at the same time very cute laugh again.

At that moment, even though I hated to admit it, I realized how much I missed that feeling of familiarity and lightness. And even though just a few minutes ago, I was doubting whether I still knew the person that Charles had become, I could see that regardless of the years and tragedies that life had subjected him to from a young age, that kind and playful boy that I had once fallen in love with was still there. And maybe he would never leave. And I liked that.

Looking at Charles smiling, sitting in front of me, I wonder for just a second if it would have been different if I hadn't left. But as soon as the thought came, I pushed it away. Because even though I was happy to know that Charles still had something familiar to me inside him, we were not meant to be even before Jules' death. And I doubt that we could have maintained a good relationship with all the pain and mourning that surrounded us. I made a good choice. Yes, I did the right thing.

Leaving Monaco was one of the hardest things I had to face. But it made me grow and become a strong woman. I learned to deal with loss, even if it may not be the healthiest way, it still worked for me. I was able to finish college, got the job I wanted, and met new people. I fell in love, and even though I didn't love them like I loved Charles, I still allowed myself to feel and try happiness. Clearly, it didn't work out, but the experience was worth it.

And I can also say that Charles has achieved what he wanted, or almost everything. He is one of the best Formula 1 drivers and drives for Ferrari, which is almost every motorsport athlete's dream. He has a successful career and is known worldwide for it. And even though he didn't get the title he so desperately craved last year, he may get it this year. He is focused, grateful, and kind. The golden boy. Il Predestinato.

Even though Charles is so young, he has given his family and friends everything they ever dreamed of. Pascale must be so proud of him, and if Harvé were still alive, I'm sure he would also be proud of the son he raised. And Jules would also be proud to see Charles' progress.

And then the emptiness appears again. Jules. I try my best not to think about him. The memories are still painful even after all these years.

I think I let my thoughts reflect too much because Charles, who was laughing before, now looks at me with a compassionate expression. He probably thought of Jules too.

"I miss him too," he says and I nod my head. "And I missed you too," his hand meets mine on the table.

There were no ulterior motives. Just a gesture. A gesture to affirm what he was saying. And it hurt. It hurt in my heart and soul.

I quickly withdraw my hand from his and stare at the table. Charles withdraws his hands and keeps them close to his body.

"I know you didn't owe me anything, Marie. No explanations, not loyalty," he starts, his voice a little broken, making my heart tighten. "But Jules died and you left. Why did you leave?" he asks, and I can hear the hurt in his voice.

I wished I had the strength to lift my gaze and tell him while looking him in the eyes that everything I did was out of fear and thinking that there was nothing left for me in Monaco. That I still loved him even after he broke up with me and that losing Jules to death destroyed me, but knowing that I would lose Charles while he was still alive would only ruin me even more. I couldn't see him every day and know that he no longer belonged to me. And that every minute I spent mourning and heartbroken without him reminded me that love was impossible for me. That I didn't deserve to be loved. That there would never be anyone to love me.

"I had to go," I say, still staring at my hands. "I don't expect you to understand or forgive me. Because I'm not asking for any of that, Charles," my voice sounds firm but my eyes burn.

I take a deep breath and hold it for a few seconds before releasing it. I raise my gaze to meet his when I'm sure the tears won't fall.

"I had to make a choice and I did. I chose myself," I say simply, perhaps trying to convince myself.

Charles nods his head and goes back to fiddling with the rings on his fingers. This time it was difficult for him to look at me.

"I'm happy to see who you've become, Marie. And I hope you've achieved what you wanted when..." he pauses for a second, unsure of what to say, "when you left Monaco." A tired laugh escapes his lips. "I'm not going to judge you, especially since when you left, we were no longer a couple. But I was an idiot to think that we were still friends." He looks back at me. "I was foolish until I realized that there would be no possibility for us without Jules being here."

I wanted to scream. I wanted to stand up and throw everything in front of me at him. I wanted to curse at him and tell him that he didn't have that right. But to be fair, I could never do that. Not when I left, when it was me who left what was left of the three of us. Jules had died and I had fled. When I left, I didn't think of Charles or his feelings. I only thought of myself and how I could never live with that.

I don't regret it. I did what I thought was necessary and would do it again. Charles might have needed me, but I needed to leave and heal. And that's what I did. Charles still had friends and family to rely on, and I had no one. No present family, no friends, and no boyfriend. Charles and I both mourned, of course, but we mourned in different ways. He had lost a friend, and I had lost everything.

There was no one to come home to and hug. There was no one there to tell me that they were sorry for my loss and that everything would be okay. So I went after what I thought I needed and I got it. I went in search of myself, a new life, new choices, and opportunities, and I found them. I found myself. Of course, I let go of a lot, and the void left by Jules and Charles was never filled, but I learned to cope and use it to my advantage for other things, and that was enough, at least for now.

Before I could respond to him, I'm interrupted once again by the sound of the damn doorbell.

Charles and I turned our attention to the door at the same time. Both of us were staring at a slim blonde woman, wearing a green coat and leggings. But what caught our attention the most was the little boy in her arms. He was about 3 or 4 years old, with dark hair, lying with his face hidden in the woman's neck, and his small hand clutching onto her collar as if he were afraid she would leave if he let go.

Charles and I stood up in rehearsed gestures, all at the same time. He stopped beside me, his hand resting on my shoulder, covered by my own coat this time. The woman looked at us and came slowly towards us. When she got closer and stopped about a meter away from us, I could analyze her.

Her face was thin and perfectly symmetrical, and even though it seemed like she hadn't slept in days, her tired eyes were a beautiful shade of greenish-brown. She is very beautiful. Her lips opened in a small smile, and there I could see that she easily fit Jules' type.

"I assume you are Charles and Marie, right?" She says, her voice sweet and tired.

My gaze moves from her to the little boy in her arms, and then they cross with Charles'. He tells me through his eyes the same things I am thinking. We return our attention to the blonde in front of us and nod.

"Great!" She clears her throat before continuing, "I'm Cecilia, and this little guy here is Vincenzo." She gently shakes the child, who tightens his grip on her coat collar even more. "Jules' son."

Charles' grip on my shoulder becomes stronger, and I swallow hard. I can't take my eyes off the little boy, and now up close, I can see his profile. His chubby childlike cheek and long eyelashes, just like Jules'.

Cecilia shifts uncomfortably, her feet shifting the weight from one to the other, and she adjusts Vincenzo's position in her lap.

"I know you must have thousands of questions, and I promise I will answer them all. But before that, would you mind if I sit down? Vincenzo is a bit heavy, and I walked here with him in my arms," she says, embarrassed.

"Of course not. Please," Charles approaches her and pulls the chair he was sitting in a few minutes ago. Cecilia sits down, careful not to make any sudden movements and wake Vincenzo.

Charles points to the empty chair, and I sit down. He takes a few steps hto the table next to us and takes an unoccupied chair to sit on. Once the three of us are seated around the table, Charles calls the waitress, whom I only now notice has been staring at us this whole time. The redheaded and smiling girl, who probably can't be more than 19 years old, approaches with her gaze fixed on Charles- she probably recognized him.

Charles is the one who orders. A cappuccino for me- which causes a sensation in my stomach that he still remembers- an iced tea for himself, and he asks Cecilia what she would like to drink, to which she responds that coffee would be enough. The redhead writes down the orders and asks for permission to leave. Her eyes still glued to Charles.

I roll my eyes internally, but I know I can't blame her. After all, it's probably not every day that she serves a public figure. When we used to come here with Jules, the employees were different, and the small café is located on a somewhat isolated street in Nice, so it's unlikely that many famous people come here.

I take my gaze off the waitress and turn back to Cecilia, who was already looking at me attentively with a small smile on her lips.

"Well..." Charles begins. "Why are we here, Cecilia? Why only now have you contacted us?" He leans forward a little more, his arms resting on the wooden table.

Cecilia shifts in her chair carefully and her eyes briefly glance at Vincenzo before turning back to us.

"I wanted you to meet Vincenzo. While he was alive, Jules always mentioned you as part of his family. He loved you both very much," she says, and I feel my chest tightening.

"But why only now?" I speak for the first time. "I know you wrote in the letter that you were afraid, but it still sounds strange that you would come looking for us now, without any reason," I say, trying to keep my voice steady.

Cecilia falls silent for a few seconds as if she wants to formulate the next words carefully.

"There's a reason," she confirms. "Look, I know it's strange, and I assure you that I'm not looking for any money or anything like that." Her gaze shifts from me to Charles, as if she wants to confirm the latter part specifically for him. "Jules and I met about six months before he died, and it was love at first sight."

"He never told us about you," Charles responds cutting her off and she nods. 

"I know he didn't. I asked him not to," she says and Charles and I exchange confused looks before turning our attention back to her.

"What do you mean? Why would you ask him not to?" I ask, finding it all very odd.

"When I met Jules, I was in a complicated time in my life," she answers and I see her face darken. "I was only 19 and had run away from Italy." Her voice trembles as if it's hard for her to mention those times again.

I wish I could tell her that she didn't need to tell us if she wasn't feeling comfortable, but the truth was that it was really necessary. After all, that's what Charles and I are here for.

Charles nodded for her to continue and I could feel his tension.

"I got involved with the wrong people in Italy," she continues. "There was a boy I had been in love with during my teenage years, Paolo was his name. We were very young and stupid, you know?" Cecília laughs and her eyes fill with tears. "Like every teenager, we thought we were invincible, but we weren't. When I was 17, I spent most of my time at parties and clubs with him. We drank and did drugs, and everything was fun and happy until it wasn't anymore. Over time, the drinking and drugs stopped being just for parties and began to become necessary for anything. From being able to concentrate on studies, to being able to get out of bed. My parents assumed that Paolo was to blame for my addiction and banned me from seeing him. I obviously went against them and they made me choose between a life with them or my ruin with Paolo. I, being young and foolish, chose love and abandoned my parents without looking back. I left the life I had to chase adventures with Paolo and he did the same, running away from home. But the thing is, we were two addicted people without a home and money. There was no more money from our parents, so we started doing whatever we could. Small thefts and even..." She stops for a moment, thick tears streaming down her face.

"Here." Charles extends a napkin and she takes it, wiping her face immediately after.

"Thank you," she says and he offers her a half-smile. "Even prostitution," she continues, and I feel my stomach churn. It wasn't disgust, but rather a pity for imagining someone in that situation. Beside me, I could see that Charles was equally uncomfortable. It was hard for him to put himself in her place.

Charles grew up with great parents who did everything for their children, and even though they weren't millionaires at the time, they still managed to have and offer a comfortable life for them. And I bet that if any of the three, Charles, Lorenzo, or Arthur, had gone the wrong way, Pascale would never have abandoned them.

And me, well, I was lucky. I spent my teenage years with Jules and Charles, who had a structured enough family to share with me because my parents were absent.

Obviously, Charles and I had our rebellious phase with occasional drinking and smoking weed. But Jules, being almost ten years older than us, always kept us in line like a good older brother. And if he knew that we had crossed the line at parties or anywhere else, oh God! He would freak out.

- "Cecilia, I know it's difficult for you to say this, but I think it's important for Charles and me to understand," I say and she nods.

Cecília takes two deep breaths before continuing, and that's when I'm sure the story would only get worse. I try to prepare myself to hear what she had to say.

"I prostituted myself a few times without Paolo's knowledge. Some traffickers gave me drugs in exchange for sex and since many times I had no other choice, I accepted. But one day he found out and that ended us. With us." Tears returned to stream down her face. "Paolo went crazy when he found out and went after the trafficker I had slept with. He got a gun and killed the guy. We were on the run for a few weeks, but it was too hard for two homeless addicts to hide in Italy. Soon they found us and..." She closes her eyes and sobs.

I stretch my hand across the table and take Cecilia's hand. There was a lot of pain there and part of me wanted to curl up and stop listening, but I couldn't. I glance at Charles and he meets my gaze, his eyes reflecting distress at hearing everything that came out of her mouth. It was too surreal for him to hear all of that.

"They killed Paolo and thought they had killed me too. But by some miracle, I managed to survive and ask for help at a church. The priest there was friends with my parents and managed to find a family in Nice who were willing to help me. So I came to France, went through rehabilitation, and started attending meetings for drug addicts." Her eyes become distant again, and I continue holding her hand. "It was on the way back from one of those meetings that I met Jules, and that's where I understood the reason why I survived. We fell in love, but he had a public life and I couldn't expose myself because I was afraid that they would come after me. I told Jules what had happened and unlike what I thought he would do, he embraced me. He promised me that he wouldn't tell anyone, not even you two until I was ready and safe. And he did that. He kept us a secret for months. We saw each other every time he came back to Nice, after the races." She finishes.

Charles and I watched as Cecilia tried to calm her breathing, her grip on the sleeping Vincenzo's body tightening as if afraid he might disappear from her arms at any moment.

It breaks my heart to see all her pain and gives me a completely different perspective from when I walked in here today. She loved Vincenzo, and that was clear, just as she had loved Jules. And that's the part that hurts me the most.

Knowing that the reason Jules never mentioned her to us, his friends and family, was sole to protect her, made my heart heavy and warm at the same time. That was so Jules.

I remember months before he died, he started to spend more time in his hometown and whenever we asked him about it, he said he wanted to spend a little more time with his family. We even found it a little strange, but Jules always had a great relationship with his parents and closest relatives, which made us simply let it go and just enjoy the time we spent together before he and Charles had to go back to racing.

"I'm sorry for all of this, really, Cecilia," Charles is the first to say after she seems calmer. "But we still need to know why you're only coming to us now," he says, and I agree.

Cecilia nods and looks at Vincenzo in her arms. The tension emanating from her makes me shiver, and Charles probably noticed it too as his hand finds my thigh under the table.

"About two days before Jules' death, I found out I was pregnant with Vincenzo," she says and I nod in understanding. "Jules was racing in Shanghai and I was scared and alone here." The tears that had ceased returned in stronger waves.

My mind teleports back to 2019, to Jules' last race. He was so happy to finish seventh that day. But, all of a sudden, he just wanted to go home and rest, not even celebrating with the boys on the grid.

"I sent him a message after the race. I said I needed him to come to Nice as soon as possible because something had happened," Cecilia looks at Charles as she speaks. "Then he sent me a message saying he would take the first available flight back to France."

As Cecilia talks, Charles' grip on my thigh gets stronger. I look at him from the corner of my eye and I can see the moment his Adam's apple goes up and down.

"So that's why he left so quickly that day," Charles' voice sounds low. "He left before I could talk to him..." His eyes fill with tears and his breathing becomes a bit unstable. Cecilia just nods and closes her eyes tightly before continuing.

"When Jules arrived in Nice, it was already early morning and it was raining heavily. He tried to get a taxi or Uber, but couldn't get either," this time I feel my breathing falter a bit as she continues. "He managed to rent a car from a nearby 24-hour agency and sent me a message saying he would arrive soon and that I didn't need to worry because no matter what was happening, everything would be okay and that he loved me."

Charles stood up abruptly. His face adopted a look of disbelief.

"It was you..." his voice was weak and accusatory. "It was because of you that he... My God!" He flinches and his hands pass through his face and his hair.

"Charles..." I try to calm him down, even though I am also anxious. "Charles, please sit down and try to calm down." I try to grab his hand, but he recoils in a sudden movement.

"Calm down? It's her, Marie!" he says, pointing to Cecilia who only shrinks into her chair and holds Vincenzo even tighter, as he moves uncomfortably in her lap. "She killed him! IT'S HER FAULT THAT JULES DIED!" he screams.

My breathing becomes difficult and my heart races. In front of me, Cecilia sobs and holds Vincenzo even closer to her body.

All that commotion made some employees start to appear and approach at a safe distance from the table.

"I'm sorry, I'm so sorry," Cecilia pleads. "I swear I never wanted this to happen, I was so scared and..." She stops when she hears Vincenzo's low cry.

Charles' attention goes to the little boy as he realizes he is now awake. He shakes his head in a negative motion and leaves the café in a hurry, slamming the door hard behind him. We are startled by the noise and the little boy cries even louder. I quickly get up to go after Charles, but before I do, I turn to Cecilia.

"Please wait here, okay? I'll try to calm him down. Don't leave," I say, and she nods, her face stained with tears that continued to fall, and her breathing accelerated as she rocked Vincenzo, trying to calm him down.

A dark-haired waitress approaches with a glass of water in her hands and places it in front of Cecilia. I thank her with a gesture and quickly leave through the door to find Charles.

It doesn't take me long to find him, he was in front of a black car. His body leaned against the driver's side. Even from a distance, I can see his body shaking and hear the sound of his erratic breathing. I approach him slowly, so as not to startle him.

When I get close enough, I think about touching him, but the thought leaves my mind when I realize it's not a good idea.

"Charles..." I call him softly to get his attention. "I'm sorry, but we need to go back there. She-"

"No!" he exclaims. "Please, Marie! Don't ask me to go back there. She killed him! It was her fault!" He stares at me with red and swollen eyes.

My heart tightens at the sight of him like this. I find myself being sent back to the year of Jules' death, specifically to the day of his funeral.

I wanted to hug Charles and tell him that everything would be okay, but in reality, I didn't know if it would. Jules had died almost four years ago, and yet it still hurt every time his name was mentioned. And hearing today from a stranger the reasons that resulted in his death was not easy. But there was a reason why Cecilia wanted to contact us after all this time, and we needed to know.

I take a deep breath and decide to approach Charles more. One of us had to try to be rational at this moment, and if it had to be me, okay. I wasn't going to go back to Italy without an answer.

"Charles, I understand that it's difficult to hear all of this suddenly," my hands go to his face. "I know it hurts, Charles. I'm feeling it too." He closes his eyes and I feel tears rolling down my face. "But we can't blame her entirely, Charles. She was scared and just wanted to talk to him.”

“And it resulted in his death." He says, his eyes opening and meeting mine. "Marie, if she hadn't done what she did, he would be here now. He would be alive and he would have met..." His voice trails off. "He would have met his son." He cries and I pull him into a hug.

Jules died without knowing his son. Jules died without knowing that he would have a son. Jules died in the dark without knowing what was happening to Cecilia. Jules died alone and worried, and nothing we can do will bring him back. He died. It's over. But Charles and I are still here.

"Jules died without knowing his son, but we're still here and we can do this for him," I say and he squeezes me tighter.

��"We're still here, Charles. And we can do this." He breaks the hug and looks at me with a face full of sorrow. I nod. 

"We need to go in there together. Together," he looks down at his feet. "Charles, I need you to go in there with me because I can't do this alone." His eyes come back to me and he understands that I used the same words he did a few years ago. "Please, Charles. I don't want to do this alone. I can't." He nods and I take his hand and slowly lead him back to the cafe.

When we walk through the door, my eyes meet Cecilia's. I nod my head to let her know it's okay, and she nods in understanding. I look at Charles who stares at her expressionlessly. His gaze is icy, totally different from the one I once knew.

Still holding Charles' hand, I walk toward the table where she uncomfortably waits for us. I notice that Vincenzo is no longer in her lap and feel momentary concern that quickly passes when I see him playing with the same red-haired waitress who had served us.

We sit in our chairs and I see that our orders are placed on the table. I feel my stomach churn just looking at the cappuccino in front of me. I take glance around and notice the employees trying to avoid looking at us. I make a mental note to "solve" this problem so it doesn't follow us when we leave.

"Just say what you want," Charles breaks the silence, his eyes still staring at Cecilia who nods and swallows hard.

"I understand your anger, and I know I have no right to ask for what I'm about to ask," she says and my hearing sharpens. "I live with guilt for years. Whether it's for Paolo or Jules, guilt and remorse follow me wherever I go. No matter what I try to do, they're always there." She looks at her hands. "Last year, I relapsed. I used heroin, once, but I used it. After years of resisting and not even going near drugs, I let my messed-up mind fall into the hole and I shot up." She lets out a desperate laugh and her eyes fill with water.

My body freezes and Charles makes a sound of scorn beside me. When he opens his mouth to say something, Cecilia cuts him off.

"Yes, I know I'm a whore, and I deserve the worst shit life has in store for me. But that's the thing. I deserve the bad things, but my son doesn't," she says firmly, looking at us seriously. "I need Vincenzo to have a good and decent life. I need to make sure he grows up loved and that he never lacks anything." She looks away for a moment to the table where Vincenzo was happily playing with the waitress and then back to us.

Cecilia takes a deep breath and leans forward. I could swear she was capable of asking for anything at that moment. Money, a house in a distant place, a period in rehab, anything.

"I can't take care of Vincenzo anymore," she asserts, her tone exuding bitterness. "I promised Jules that I would do everything to make him different from me. And that's why I came to you after all these years."

My head spins. She's asking for...? No, it's not possible.

"What do you mean by that?" Charles asks anxiously.

"Cecilia wipes the tears from her face with her hand, blinks a few times, and adopts a determined look, a look that I knew well. The same look I gave to myself in the mirror when I decided to leave Monaco. Suddenly, I feel afraid because my suspicions are confirmed.

"She wants us to take care of Vincenzo," I say.

[pininghermit]

Heeey, I'd like to make an ask if you don't mind but first I just have to say that I really liked the fic you wrote on alucard, I thought the relationship dynamic was so cute *internal screaming* So I was wondering if you could do a modern au fic with a female monster hunter s/o who's like batman (uses their brains over brawn but definitely knows how to fight) and she works together with alucard on monster hunting missions(if it's possible to make it Genya Arikado version from the aria of sorrow/dawn of sorrow it would be really cool as there's not a lot of content with that but it's fine if not.)

Thanks!

Mr. and Mrs. Tepes (Alucard x Reader)

Pairing: Alucard x Reader

Word Count: 1.8k

Summary: A slightly rushed "Where are you?" greets you as soon as you plug in your Bluetooth. You hear the clang of metal followed by gurgling growls on the other end. "I am on my way," you press harder on the gas as you speed to the site of conflict.

AN: Hi, thanks for requesting such an interesting ask. I am not familiar with the Genya Arikado version that you mentioned but I tried doing some research to pull up something decent. I hope you like it and please forgive any cannon inaccuracies I'm a noob.

"It's just going to be a bunch of mindless skeletons," he said.

"I can handle it myself, he said,” you grumble as you furiously pull back your hair into a tight braid as you try to locate your crossbow.

You chuck your weapons in your trusted Audi. He better be damn grateful for this. You would have never put your darling Audi8 through this rough treatment, but alas, the situation called for it.

Giving your resort one last parting look, you speed your way through isolated roads. Speed limits and laws jump out of the window at 2 am in the morning.

A slightly rushed "Where are you?" greets you as soon as you plug in your Bluetooth. You hear the clang of metal followed by gurgling growls on the other end. "I am on my way," you press harder on the gas as you speed to the site of conflict.

It had been a no-work vacation that you had somehow convinced Adrian to take. After weeks of pleading, he agreed to spend a week of nothingness except for relaxing spas and soothing hot springs in Hokkaido.

You should have known better. Honestly, you had no idea when he snuck out to 'explore' the land. In his plan to be discreet, your very smart fiancé thought it wise to venture into an unknown territory without appropriate weapons or ammunition.

It had been too late by the time you caught on, and your dampir fiancé replied with cryptic texts that told nothing about his whereabouts. While you were busy freaking out about your missing fiancé, Adrian was out there living his best life, scouting Japanese forests.

Giving up on the cocky bastard, you resorted to destressing through the amazing bath at your disposal. And he did text you about how he did not need help fighting mere annoyances.

Next thing you know, just as you undress to hop into water that is just the right temperature, Adrian hits you with a "Need backup" text with the coordinates of his location.

Now here you are, very much away from your therapeutic bath and herbal tea. Parking your baby outside the forest parameters, you double-check your Bluetooth. "Take cover, I'll be there soon," you speak into the mic as you huff with the weight of weapons on your back.

In a matter of seconds, you transform yourself into a killing machine loaded with weapons of every kind at your disposal. Pulling Adrian's location on your watch, you start your trek through the forest or, to better phrase it, through the trees.

While Adrian fought head-on, you preferred to catch your opponents off guard. You lingered in shadows, waiting for a chance to strike. Maybe it was a habit from your past as an assassin that never left you.

Long ago, before you met Adrian, you fought for people who bought others' lives with the money they were born into. You sliced throats, spiked drinks, sniped unsuspecting targets, fabricated accidents. Adrian wasn't in your life back then. It remains a past you wish to forget, but you don't deserve to forget it, not after all the blood you have on your hands. This is your penance, to remember and live with your dark past.

But now, as you blend into the cover of the trees, your past helps you spot Adrian faster than ever. You find him crouched behind a rock. Great, he actually took cover. It must be pretty serious then. As if on cue, he looks up, and you see relief settle into his features.

From your vantage point, you spot about two merman and around twenty skeletons. Adrian could have dealt with this mix... if only Mr. Smartass had enough weapons on him. You could shoot some from your spot, but first, you need to equip Adrian with some ammunition. So, you soundlessly make your way to join Adrian behind the abnormally large rock.

The first thing you do after reaching him is to look for any possible injuries on him. Adrian, for once, lets you do your job with the patience of a saint, at least for him. After making sure that your fiancé won't bleed to death as you fight, you wordlessly hand him refills and the crossbow.

Neither of you speaks about the atrocious number of daggers in your pack. From the look on Adrian's face, you're pretty sure he's dying to present his reasons for the adventure, but it will have to wait.

Adrian feels all the exhaustion leave his body as his senses focus on your hands tying a bandolier around his waist. Your movements are efficient and quick. You separate the poisoned dagger from the normal ones.

Even in such an unexpected situation, you remain undaunted. You scheme and plan, but you do not cower. That's what Adrian loves about you. You're brave. Brave enough to accept your past, your flaws, and live with them.

It's easy to forget the hideous monsters on the other side of the rock as you both huddle close under the clear skies. The cool night breeze sways a wayward strand that escaped your braid, a sign that you probably rushed on your way here.

"Eeek," Adrian squeaks as you pull him closer by the grip on his collar. He's seriously too old to blush like a schoolgirl, but his cheeks heat up when he realizes how close your face is to his, and his eyes meet yours.

"You better make it up for all this," you whisper next to his ear, and Adrian feels the warmth of your breath against his skin. Barely holding back the shudder that runs through him, Adrian nods silently.

With a satisfied smile on your face, you pull back, only to lean in again and steal a kiss before disappearing into the cover of the trees. Your message is clear as Adrian tightens his grip on the gun in his hand. Reeling from the distraction, Adrian tries to focus on your concealed footsteps and the obnoxiously loud monsters on the other end.

Adrian steps into the clearing where the monsters stand, waiting for him. Hidden in a tree, you provide cover as he approaches the two Merman. It's a well-practiced dance, a complex routine of taking the lead and handing it off to the other when needed.

As he fights the monsters, who seem to follow a repetitive pattern of overused attacks, Adrian reminisces about the first time he met you.

It was a grand hall, and he was disguised as Genya Arikado. It was the birthday celebration of a powerful politician's son. The most prestigious individuals in town had gathered to celebrate the man-child's twenty-seventh birthday.

Genya Arikado had been invited by a colleague who he worked with under his disguise's alias. The party had reached a point where Adrian was trying to discern possible faces and shapes in the botched ceiling paint.

Lost in thought, he was looking up when he bumped into another person, causing them to fall upon the impact. "Oof!" Adrian snapped back to reality and quickly apologized, his eyes landing on you.

Red. He saw red when he saw you. Dressed in the deepest shade of red, you sat there, glaring at him. "Watch where you're going, will you?" you muttered as you stood up, ignoring the hand he offered you. In a flurry of motion, you disappeared, blending into the sea of bored people.

Throughout the rest of the evening, Adrian searched for you or any sign of your red dress, but he failed. It was as if the entire interaction, lasting only a few seconds (though it felt longer to Adrian), had never happened.

Adrian's mind was consumed by thoughts of you and the fleeting encounter. Doubt gnawed at his thoughts. Had he truly imagined you? Had his longing for companionship manifested itself in a vivid yet illusory encounter? He replayed the interaction in his mind over and over, dissecting every detail, desperately trying to grasp onto any evidence that would confirm the existence of that brief connection.

The memory of your delicate fragrance lingered in his senses, adding to his confusion. It was a fragrance unlike any he had encountered before—subtle yet captivating, with floral and citrus undertones that momentarily transported him to a world beyond the confines of the party. The scent became intertwined with the image of you, deepening the mystery surrounding your presence.

As the night wore on, Adrian's frustration grew. He wondered if he had been destined to cross paths with you only for a fleeting moment, forever chasing an apparition that could never be captured. The questions echoed in his mind, haunting him with the possibility that he might never find the answers.

Yet, despite the uncertainty and the absence of tangible evidence, Adrian couldn't shake the feeling that the encounter had been real. The emotions stirred within him, the electricity in the air, and the inexplicable connection he had felt—all pointed to a profound encounter that defied rational explanation.

Later in the chaotic night, when the guests rushed out, Adrian found himself reluctantly leaving the hall. Throughout the night, he had been unable to find you. Even his enhanced senses had failed to spot any sign of your presence. The party ended abruptly when the politician's son had to be carried out on a stretcher due to an allergic reaction to a shellfish starter.

Waiting for the valet to bring his car, Adrian paused as the valet got out to offer him the keys. A familiar fragrance flooded his senses. Standing in front of him was you, dressed in a valet uniform with a seamless disguise. Smiling with a knowing look in your eyes, you handed him the keys and rushed back to work as a guy, seemingly your manager, called out for you.

Back in the present, Adrian tackled the last surviving skeleton, realizing he was almost done. From the corner of his eye, he searched for you, wherever you might have ended up during the fight. Lost in handling the final skeleton and looking for you, he didn't notice another set of footsteps approaching.

He suddenly became aware of the presence of another surviving skeleton running toward him and prepared to dodge the attack. However, it never came. The skeleton crumpled down into dust as you tackled it, jumping out of the literal sky.

Standing in the now quiet clearing, Adrian allowed his shoulders to relax. All the tension from the past hours left his body as he observed you collecting arrows from the ground.

"Make haste, Mr. Tepes. You've got a bath to run once we get back," you said, bundling all your beloved knives into their designated packs.

The slight smirk on your face revealed that Adrian would be running more than one bath. His list of chores had just increased exponentially for the week. Sighing in dismay, Adrian cracked his back as he followed you out of the forest.