#see i told you Tristan has eyes

[doomspaniels]

*Please* Tristan tell me WHAT you want! I will give it to you, anything, just... WHAT DO YOU WANT, baby boy, pleeeeease?

(it seems he wanted a yak cheese chew, since he got one yesterday at this time)

[hcuyk]

im a dean girlie and the description is EXACTLY how my last relationship ended.

i love that you can learn so much about a person's issues by asking them which of rory gilmore's cringefail boyfriends is their favorite.

[sjyuns]

🗒️ 、 INTENTIONS

popular sunghoon x fem reader 1535 words genre fluff mikaela’s note because sunghoon is so tristan dugray coded, inspired by a gilmore girls scene

“I’d kiss you but your boyfriend’s watching,” Sunghoon mumbles, and he’s so close you can feel his breath on your lips.

He holds your gaze confidently, with a tinge of arrogance as his tongue darts out to lick his lip. You think that Sunghoon is the most annoying person in the world, because how can he look so devilishly handsome and have such an intoxicating effect on you.

It all started when he showed up unannounced and uninvited to your birthday party — still in his school uniform, tie loosened and sleeves rolled up with his blazer hanging over his shoulder.

And you should have known better than to let him charm his way into your house. “What are you doing here, Hoon?”

He loves the way his nickname rolls off the tip of your tongue, it's so addictive and he wants to record it so that he can play it again and again, even if your tone is one of spite.

“Happy birthday princess,” Sunghoon completely ignores your words, taking steps closer towards you, “now, where’s my birthday kiss?”

He’s at it again, aimlessly flirting with you. You roll your eyes, a deep sigh exiting your mouth, “it’s my birthday, Hoon.” How did he even know where you lived? You were sure you told everyone you invited not to bring him along.

“So I’ll give you a birthday kiss,” he grins, eyes glinting with mischief as he watches your facial expressions fall, ears burning red as you quickly turn around.

You hate Park Sunghoon and the unimaginable hold he has on you. “I’m going to find my mother. Do not, I swear to god, cause any trouble.”

“Your mother? It’s a little early in the relationship,” he moves swiftly to your side, arms casually slinging over your shoulder as he pulls you closer into him forcefully. “But it’s okay, I’m ready.”

Where in the world does Sunghoon get his cocky attitude from, you think as you try your best to pry and lift his arm away from your shoulder. Despite your surface indifference towards his advances, there were millions of butterflies invading your stomach at his every single action.

Before you can even try to escape, a voice calls your name and you stop to talk to Yunjin. “Park Sunghoon? What are you doing here?”

Sunghoon steals a glance at you, and he thinks you look absolutely adorable as you pout at the image of multiple people seeing you with him; given how you always seemed to have complaints about his overly flirty nature and playboy ways.

But Sunghoon hasn’t fooled around since you transferred into Decelis two months ago, a personal record for him. At first all you were was a form of entertainment, someone who had cute reactions to his smooth pick up lines.

Then it all came crashing down, when he started to feel the need to bicker with you everyday and mess up your hair every time he sees you in the hallways. And somewhere in between the blurred lines, he fell in love.

“Here to celebrate my girl’s birthday,” he cocks his head towards you, who’s palms now cover your face in sheer embarrassment. God, now it’s going to spread like wildfire. His girl?

Yunjin’s eyes widen and jaw drops, “really? You guys are together? But I thought you were with Choi Soobin.” She asks, nudging you.

Sunghoon frowns at her words. Choi Soobin? Since when? Sunghoon literally follows you around school whenever he sees you, and he’s never seen you ever talk to that boy.

“Soobin and I are just friends,” you clarify, “also we are not a couple,” your finger gesturing to you and Sunghoon as you answer the girl.

“Tomorrow we’ll be a couple,” Sunghoon cuts back into the conversation, voice loud, and he catches your surprised expression as he smirks slyly.

Though he continues the conversation without a single stutter or break, Sunghoon’s feeling utterly disgusted. Is that the kind of boy you like? Nerdy losers who can’t do anything for the life of themselves? He doesn’t really like the thought of turning into those types of boys, but whatever you want, he thinks — he’s already practised abstinence for you, he might as well go all the way.

At the same time Sunghoon wonders if you’re really that oblivious to his obvious advancements towards you. He’s made it crystal clear: dumped his girlfriend, follows you around, talks about you literally all the time, and yet you’re still clueless.

And he whisks you away before you find the chance to clarify his words again. He’s determined this time round, to make it extremely straightforward for you.

“Hoon why in the world would you say stuff like that,” you groan, hands slapping his chest. And he grins like an idiot at your touch, if this was what it took for you to initiate skinship with him, he’d be more than willing to proclaim himself as your boyfriend any day.

He places a hand on the place you’d just hit, “it’s painful,” he pouts, and you almost feel a little guilty at your harsh actions, “can you kiss it better?”

Until that. You huff, “i’m leaving,” you announce as you turn away, ready to walk right back into the crowd. Sunghoon quickly clasps his fingers around your wrist, pulling you into his chest.

Your eyes become those of a deer caught in headlights as your body is pressed firmly against his, his arms finding their way to your waist; a gentle but firm hold as he bends down.

“Wasn’t done yet, princess,” he smirks, and you feel some sort of danger looming over because Sunghoon looks like a devil enticing you to commit sin. His black hair styles perfectly like always and his red tie, due to his excessive movements, is now dropping down even more to expose his honey skinned collarbones.

The most you can muster is a mumble, “what,” and your eyes are glassy as you stare up at him, he thinks he might go insane — so close to just moving in to place a kiss on your invitingly soft lips.

“I’d kiss you but your boyfriend’s watching,” and he literally spits the term out, unable to believe he’s labelling someone else other than him ‘your boyfriend’. He knows you guys aren’t together, but just for the comfort of his heart he has to hear it again.

It takes you a while before you process his words. “He’s not my boyfriend, Hoon,” and it’s that short statement coupled with the way you say his name that really breaks it for him.

Sunghoon moves in just as you finish your sentence, and he sinks into your pillowy lips. It’s paradise on earth and he thinks he will never be able to get enough of this feeling.

“Sunghoon,” you mumble when he breaks the kiss, slightly out of breath as you look up with hazy eyes.

He chuckles, “sorry, baby, my bad. I’ll return your kiss back,” and Sunghoon doesn’t hesitate to give you another kiss, fingers caressing your waist as he pulls you closer to him.

This time it’s you who breaks the kiss, way too out of breath to even form full sentences without a few breaks in between. “You just kissed me.”

“Right, I just did that baby,” he smiles, those tiny fangs of his showcased as he gazes adoringly at you. “Actually, I’m looking for a girlfriend.” He pauses, eyeing your flushed cheeks and pink lips, “you looking for a boyfriend by any chance, princess?”

Now that you’re literally glued onto Sunghoon, you take the chance to look at him. Sharp nose, pretty moles that you could probably trace along all day, and his eyes which contrasting to his calm demeanour, held anxiousness as he waited for you to answer.

You’ve thought about dating Sunghoon before. Multiple times. Way more than you should’ve. And you never wanted to ever confess to it, because he was everyone’s crush. And not only that, he was annoying — constantly teasing you and making you flustered by his actions. You’d curse every time your heartbeat started to accelerate at his flirty words. You had thought that there was no way he’d ever like you back.

“I’m looking for a boyfriend,” you admit, letting out a soft giggle at Sunghoon’s overjoyed expression. And you decide that maybe now’s the time to get back at him, tease him a little to get him to stay on his toes, “maybe I should go find Soobin.”

His shoulders drop almost immediately and his arms wrap around your waist securely, chin resting on the top of your head. “No fucking way,” he grumbles, “you’re my girlfriend now. And I’m your boyfriend.”

“Yeah, you are,” you say, voice muffled in the embrace of Sunghoon. And you hear him giggle slightly, the rumble of his chest exposing the boyish feelings your boyfriend was currently going through, “for now.”

Sunghoon lifts his chin from your head, fingers brushing over your cheeks before they land themselves on your jaw. He tilts your chin up, “too bad my intention is forever.” And he places a chaste kiss on your lips again and again.

You are in for a long ride.

© SJYUNS

[offtorivendell]

Is this proof that the mating bonds of the High Fae were corrupted along with Prythian's Cauldron? What might this mean for Azriel and Elain Archeron?

This post was written for @azrielappreciationweek Day 5: No Need For Poetry

Disclaimer: this is a theory that, while based on the text, makes no claim of being canon. My thanks as always go out to @wingedblooms, @elrieldreamer, @ladynightcourt3, @psychologynerd and anyone else who tolerates my nattering. And don't worry, this isn't nearly as long as my last post. 😂

Spoilers: the entire Maasverse to date is discussed.

High Fae and their mating bonds

@wingedblooms recently made a great observation: that the witches from Erilea had once taken up the Fae habit of "selecting" their mates. This especially caught my eye as I have previously theorised that all Singers could be witches or sorcerers of a sort. I think @psychologynerd also mentioned the same passage when she discussed the possibility of Azriel being a witch prince, which I absolutely hope is true.

The crone read her question in her eyes. “Our men dwell at our homes, where they are safe. This camp is an outpost while we conduct our business.” The Crochans had always given birth to more males than the Ironteeth, and had adopted the Fae habit of selecting mates—if not a true mating bond, then in spirit. She’d always thought it outlandish and strange. Unnecessary. - KOA, chapter 15

It even pairs nicely with the following quote, which @silverlinedeyes included in her discussion about true mates possibly being a bond type all of its own.

“After your mother never returned, your father was asked to couple with another young witch. He was the sole carrier of the Crochan bloodline, you see, and should your mother and you not have survived the birthing, it would end with him. He didn’t know what had happened to either of you. If you were alive, or dead. Didn’t even know where to look. So he agreed to do his duty, agreed to help his dying people.” Her great-grandmother smiled sadly. “All who met Tristan loved him.” Tristan. That had been his name. Had her grandmother even known it before she’d killed him? “A young witch was chosen for him especially. But he did not love her—not with your mother as his true mate, the song of his soul. Tristan made it work nonetheless. Rhiannon was the result of that.” - KOA, chapter 15

Those on their own were very interesting finds, but when we combine them with the now-canon fact that, per Silene's message, Prythian's Cauldron has indeed been corrupted, it shines the following passage from ACOMAF in an entirely new light.

The Cauldron was of our world, our heritage. But upon arriving here, the Daglan captured it and used their powers to warp it. To turn it from what it had been into something deadlier. No longer just a tool of creation, but of destruction. And the horrors it produced … those, too, my parents would turn to their advantage. - HOFAS, chapter 19

I held out my own glass for Mor to fill. “He does need unusual amounts of coddling.” Azriel choked on his wine, and I met his gaze—warm for once. Soft, even. I felt Rhys tense beside me and quickly looked away from the spymaster. A glance at the guilt in Rhys’s eyes told me he was sorry. And fighting it. So strange, the High Fae with their mating and primal instincts. So at odds with their ancient traditions and learning. - ACOMAF, chapter 56

So at odds with their ancient traditions and learning.

Feyre suggested the primal instincts of the high fae mating bonds - at least as they currently exist - were "at odds" with their ancient traditions and learning.

Does this not sound like we should be questioning everything, especially in light of the information we learnt in HOFAS, which confirmed what some of us had previously wondered about the Cauldron having been tampered* with? It makes me wonder what, exactly, made these two facets of the current high fae become so at odds with each other.

* Kudos to @fawnandshadows for that brainwave years ago!

Why can Azriel smell the bond between Elain and Lucien before it has been consummated? That shouldn't be possible, especially as - like Cassian - he simply "suspected" that Feyre and Rhys were mates in early ACOMAF. Unless there's something we don't yet know, Amren was the only one who knew without being told.

Further, why does proximity to the "bondmates" become too much for even such a hardened soldier to bear? This doesn't seem normal.

Why does the Cauldron's magic appear to be associated with oiliness?

It has to be the Cauldron's corruption, right?

What if Azriel has been right all along... what if the Cauldron was wrong?

So... Azriel and Elain Archeron?

We know that Azriel's shadows can hide him from binding magic, such as the contract Thesan created to keep the peace in the High Lords' meeting.

Azriel squeezed, Eris thrashing beneath him. No physical brawling—there had been a rule against that, but Azriel, with whatever power those shadows gave him … “Enough, Azriel,” Rhys ordered. Perhaps those shadows that now slid and eddied around the shadowsinger hid him from the wrath of the binding magic. The others made no move to interfere, as if wondering the same. - ACOWAR, chapter 45

@mrspettyferr has previously wondered if this part of the shadows' power could have been why a true bond didn't snap between Azriel and Elain while at Hybern, either when she was in/freshly out of the Cauldron (or with Mor previously, if it turns out they share some sort of bond); do his shadows hide him from the binding magic/contract of a mating bond? Especially as SJM has used the term "shackled." It is an incredibly interesting thought, as I had only ever considered this ability in terms of defensive magic, and is part of the reason why I first took note of the passage below. Of course, we still need to answer why a mating bond would generate with Lucien in the absence of Azriel's soul; was there some sort of external interference, such as the Cauldron itself, or is it simply part of the function of at least one of the hypothesised bonds to snap into place if the nearby match is "good enough" for strong children?

@wingedblooms and I have previously discussed the potential for an evolution of the current mating bond (here and here), and many theories exist about how the bond may be dissolved. Will it be Nesta or Elain who use the power of the Cauldron to unMake it; will it be Truth-Teller severing the Elucien bond, per sleepyliv and @riddlecrux; or did Lucien and his spell-cleaving heritage unintentionally pull their bond thread loose and begin its unravelling back in ACOWAR, as once suggested by @nikethestatue.

Assuming that whatever exists between Elain and Lucien can be unMade, of course, I wonder if Azriel's shadows/magic could contribute in some way towards him "selecting" his own mate in the future, after reading the following exchange.

“No one’s got any rope?” Bryce asked pathetically. She was met with incredulous silence. Bryce nodded to Azriel. “Those shadows of yours could take form—they caused that cave-in. Can’t you, like, make a bridge or something? Or your blue light … you seemed to think it could have restrained the Wyrm. Make a rope with that.” His brows rose. “Neither of those things is remotely possible. The shadows are made of magic, just very condensed. These”—he motioned to the blue stones in his armor—“concentrate my power and allow me to craft it into things that resemble weapons. But they’re still only magic—power.” - HOFAS, chapter 16

Cassian gawked at Azriel, and I wondered how often Azriel had lent out that blade— Never, Rhys said from where he finished buckling on his own weapons against the side of the wagon. I have never once seen Azriel let another person touch that knife. Elain looked up at Azriel, their eyes meeting, his hand still lingering on the hilt of the blade. I saw the painting in my mind: the lovely fawn, blooming spring vibrant behind her. Standing before Death, shadows and terrors lurking over his shoulder. Light and dark, the space between their bodies a blend of the two. The only bridge of connection … that knife. - ACOWAR, chapter 69

Why did we learn that Azriel's shadows cannot make any sort of "bridge" or "rope" (aka a cord of woven threads, which is very reminiscent of a mating bond) to reach across the gap? It seems pretty symbolic to me, and marries nicely with Truth-Teller being described as "bridging the gap" between Elain and Azriel in ACOWAR's pre-war meadow scene. Will Azriel's shadows or siphons be able to help nullify the Elucien bond somehow? What about creation?

Purification?

I know @wingedblooms and @ladynightcourt3, at least, join me in my suspicions that - similar to Yrene in KOA - Elain's magic/light could purify a Valg (or similar) infestation from Azriel's shadows, which we now know are really condensed magic. If this is possible, could Az's shadows - once purified by Elain, of course (assuming Valg or similar corruption to the Cauldron, with Elain as the "executioner") - help to bridge the gap between his and Elain's souls with his magic, to meet hers half way? Thereby having Azriel and Elain "select" each other as true mates, just like the witches in Erilea once did?

Why did SJM say that Truth-Teller was bridging the gap between the two? Was it because it had been charged with sunlight and/or Elain's own light enough to begin negating a possible Valg infection in Azriel's magic, or that it will be charged enough to do so at some point in the future? Or will Gwydion or Truth-Teller's magics help to cleanse the hypothetically corrupted Cauldron bond that currently exists between Elain and Lucien? There are so many possibilities going forward.

Whatever ends up happening, this all seems very symbolic. Especially once you add in all of the "purity language" (not my term) that SJM used between Elain and Azriel. Imagine the pay off if it was always suggesting that Azriel sensed Elain's light could cleanse his magic and free him from Valg (or other) corruption?

That would be amazing foreshadowing. Sorry.

[marymary-diva17]

New start in life (4)

bridgerton x reader

The ton was all in the buzz since the return of two former scandals member of London high society. Two years they had been gone and now they have returned, back to London after the rumors behind them proven false. Not everything is the same as it was left when the two had been outcast by their families, friends, and society itself.

y/n " my dear husband I'm going to pay a visit to madam Delacroix, along with the other shops"

Tristan " have fun my love as I will be out as well attending some clubs "

y/n " do you wish for me to come"

Tristan " no I will be good my wife and if you buy anything send, the credit to the home and I will buy for anything my wife heart wishes for"

y/n " thank you" you had kissed Tristian forehead before you had left the home with a maid with you as well, your first stop of the day was the dress shop.

Madam Delacroix " y/n"

y/n " hello madam Delacroix it has been a while hasn't it"

Madam Delacroix " yes it has and I have been told you are now a viscountess, that lives in Scotland"

y/n " yes that is true after the scandal was apart of I had left here, and married Tristain"

Madama Delacroix " you and him make a perfect match may I show you some of, my newest fabric colors and patterns"

y/n " yes please"

Madam Delacroix " what is your colors shades blue like the rest of your family or something new"

Y/n " I still have some blues dress but now have gone with colors like purple, red, and green, pink, few others"

Madam Delacroix " well it always comes a time when a young lady blooms into her own person, and I have fabrics that will be perfect for you"

y/n " thank you" Madam Delacroix had shown you some fabric patterns, that caught you eye and that you dressed you pay. After showing you some design and getting your measurements, the dress orders were place.

madam Delacroix " the orders will be sent to your home"

y/n " thank you and payment will be sent today and after the orders are done"

madam Delacroix " thank you and y/n"

y/n " yes"

Madama Delacroix " it good to have you back with us" you had smiled and nodded your head, as you soon left the shop. You are walking down the street passing by some, members of the ton nodding your head to them.

Maid " ma'am they are acting like they are seeing a ghost are all London ton like this"

y/n " well my dear it has been two years most of them are shocked to see I even came back"

maid " umm well I will say Scotland it far better then London" you had laugh at your maid comment, as the pair soon went to walking on the cobblestone road.

????? " sister" you soon looked up to see your sisters and Penelope making walking towards you.

y/n " hello you three how are you doing this morning"

Eloise " good now being at home after last night balls hasn't been happy"

Francesca " what our dear sister will love to say is that our dear brothers, are having a hard time understanding you are married"

y/n " it will take them so time but they will come around soon"

Penelope " None of your brothers should be looking down on you mostly Colin"

y/n " come lets walk before anyone else decide to speak some nice words to us" the group had soon walked into the park as you looked at Penelope.

y/n " so what has Colin said now Penelope that got you so mad at him"

Elosie " she overheard him laughing about her with some other young man"

y/n " my brother the fools well they are all fools expect Gregory"

Francesca " I miss life in bath but now I'm here to get married"

y/n " well I prat for you three but if London man don't do well there are enough fine, young man in Scotland"

Francesca " sister are you become a match maker"

y/n " maybe I was just giving a suggestion"

Elosie " well sister I will still take the offer to Scotland when it comes, as it will get me far away from here"

Penelope " if leaving had done y/n well maybe it will be good for us as well"

Francesca " I have to agree as well"

Eloise " oh dear here comes mama"

????? " y/n" you soon looked and saw hyacinth and Gregory running up to you, they both soon hugged you once they got close. You had huge them back as well.

Y/n " oh I have missed you both so much and look how big you both had gotten"

Hyacinth " sister we are happy you are home we heard the wonderful news, that you are married to Tristian and live in a big manor"

Gregory " yes you also live in Scotland as well came we come visit you and stay for a while"

Violet " children clam down we should wait until your sister invites us over for a stay, or she might move here to be closer with us"

y/n " Well I have spoken with my husband we don't mind having some family staying with us"

Gregory " that wonderful sister where is Tristan"

y/n " away doing the task of the gentleman of the ton"

Daphne " oh so he will run into Antony and Simon"

Kate " yes they had gone off there with Colin and Benedict"

Y/n " oh that sounds wonderful"

Gregory " How long are you going to be here sister"

y/n " for a good amount of time until we need to return back home, and attend to business there my loves"

Violet " you don't have to rush back home you can still be viscountess and live here"

Y/n " I think it will be best if we return back to Scotland as we are need there, and it will be rude if we leave and move here"

????? " good day everyone" the group soon looked to see the Cressida cowper and her mother standing there.

Y/n " Lady cowper and Cressida good day"

Cressida " good day Viscountess Y/n I never thought you will come back, until last night and married to Tristen as well"

Y/n " yes while we were gone we had gotten married"

Lady Cowper " Violet did you attend your daughter wedding"

Violet " no I didn't it was when she was due to go live in the countryside, but we have been talking about another wedding for all the ton to see"

Lady Cowper " oh such a shame to miss your child wedding, oh viscountess y/n do you have any children"

Hyacinth " do you sister do we have other nephew or niece"

Y/n " no there are no children yet but we hope for some soon"

Lady Cowper " oh that good but dear it was such a shame of what happened to you and Tristian being betrayed by your families, but I thought bridgerton sticks together no matter what right Violet"

Violet " oh look at the time we all most get going come along everyone good day Cowpers" Toilet had moved the group away from the mother and daughter.

Elosie " well mother if you hope to avoid anymore scandal on the family name, that might not help"

Daphne " hush Eloise"

Elosie " I was just speaking the truth"

Violet " my daughters we don't need to fight we need to stand together as a family untied"

Y/n " Untied under what cause"

Violet " the cause of you and Tristan"

y/n " mother there is no need as I remember it not good for me to bring shame and poor reputation to our family"

Daphne " sister what was said that night was taken out of turn"

y/n " that is what you think duchess when I myself think other wise, I think it best if I take my leave right now"

Hyacinth " no sister don't leave please"

y/n " don't cry my sister we will see each other again"

Violet " dearest please don't go I didn't ..."

y/n " good day everyone" you had soon crusty to everyone as you soon walked away you, with your maid fowling as well she gave the older women a cold glare but a warm smile to everyone else.

Later that night

Tristian " hello my wife"

y/n " my husband welcome home how was your day at the clubs"

Tristan " well it was going well I have have some drinks with Will, who is enjoying his life in ton"

Y/n " good for him and his family the news of that made me happy for them"

Tristan " yes everything was going well then Bridgeton brothers and Simon had shown up"

y/n " oh well I was out shopping when I ran into my sisters and Penelope, too. being joined by the rest of the family"

Tristian " oh"

Y/n " we then ran into the Cowper family as well lady Cowper, had some words for my mother and me as well"

Tristan " The cowpers are still the same I see so not that much as changed"

y/n " that is so true my husband so tell me more about your day"

Tristan " well it seems like Antony wishes that we never married, by the looks he was giving me last night rumors going around is that he had some suitors planed for you"

y/n " Antony with match making that is a big jest"

Tristian " it seems like none of your brothers love the idea of our marriage, Simon seems to be coming around I don't know ... if we look at it no one can say anything about our marriage mostly Antony and Simon"

y/n " yes after what happened when they were getting married and Antony past relationship as well"

Tristian " oh yes Siena Rosso the opera singer didn't she come to Scotland"

y/n " yes I had been invited by some of the ladies at home and attend, I ran into and we talked she is doing well"

Tristian " good now what this matter on another wedding for us"

y/n " the ton and our families are mad we got marriage without them there"

Tristan " well I love the weddings we had we don't need a redo"

y/n " what if I wanted another wedding husband will you deny me that wish"

Tristian " no my wife if you wish it then I will make it happen" you soon laugh as you looked at your husband.

Tristan " you jest with me don't you"

y/n " yes I do"

Tristian " that why I love you"

y/n " I hope you do love me or you have been living with me for two years, for nothing"

Tristan " I will live the rest of my life and the next life by your side"

y/n " mister charming I see I'm lucky that none of the ladies, of the ton noticed this behavior before we were married"

Tristian " They will never have my attention or heart like you do, and it seems like the males of the ton are upset that I ended up with you as wife a smart and beautiful women'

y/n. " well everyone lost their chance and we are better fit for each other anyways" the couple had smiled at each other no matter what anyone, tried to do they will never break their marriage vows and marriage as well. They will stay with each other for the rest of their lives and soon enough, make a family of their own as well.

[flowerxbunnie]

Star Crossed

Chris x Fem reader

Warnings: angst, cheating/breakup, underage drinking, scene involving cigarettes

“Fuck you Garrett, like actually.” I spat, gripping at the handle of his jeep and threatening to leave.

“What is your problem? You never told me that it wasn’t okay. She’s literally Tristan’s cousin. And your best friend is a guy, I thought you would be okay with this.” he argued, his face plastered with confusion but his voice filled with anger.

“Don’t try to make me feel crazy,” I warned, turning back to face him and pinching the bridge of my nose. “I’m okay with you having friends of the opposite gender. But I don’t care if it’s the Queen of England, since when is it okay to text other girls private details about our relationship?”

“I only do it when we’re in arguments and I need someone to vent to. She told me I could come to her when I was upset. It’s not like it’s an everyday thing.” He throws his hands up in frustration.

“Okay,” I let an angry chuckle out. “I’m gonna call up one of my girls’ cousins and tell him about this right quick then. See if he maybe has some advice for me.”

“That’s not the fucking same and you know it. He’d try to fuck you or god knows what else.” He scowled.

I stare into his eyes, blinking slowly, hoping the hypocrisy behind his words catches up to him. But it doesn’t.

“I just don’t get why you treat me like I’m some horrible boyfriend,” he starts, “I meet my best friend’s cousin at a bonfire, get her number and text her casually and you fly off the handle.”

“You text her about OUR RELATIONSHIP. When we’re at our worst. Why do you need advice from a random fucking girl who you barely know?” I snapped, my cheeks burning and my hands shaking. Tears threaten to spill over, something I hate about myself when I get angry. “Let’s not forget that you went through and liked every single one of her instagram pictures. Every single one. Was that a piece of the advice she gave you? To make your girlfriend look like a fucking idiot?” I fumed, his hands moving to grip the steering wheel with white knuckles. “And how do I know that’s all you talk about, hm? All the texts are deleted.”

His face remains blank as he grabs the gear-shifter and throws the jeep into reverse. His eyes flick up to the rear view and he backs out of our spot in the random shopping outlet’s parking lot, roughly shifting into drive a he pulls out and into the road.

“What the fuck are you doing, Garrett?” I grumble, watching the streetlights lining the road zoom past my window as he speeds down the highway.

“I’m taking you home. I’m not gonna stay with a crazy bitch who thinks she can micromanage my every move.” He spoke, his tone calm and his expression unwavering.

I take a deep breath. I’m done with the arguing.

“Okay.”

I close out of her instagram account, still trying to convince myself that my eyes are playing tricks on me as Garrett’s name is plastered under her newest scandalous photos. I toss my phone into the space between my bed and the wall, knowing it’s unhealthy to stalk her and mourn my relationship everyday. It’s been a week.

Somehow I’ve managed to drag myself to class everyday. The lessons don’t click in my brain this week, my notebook is empty and my pen is dry. I’m not even sure I have a voice anymore. I haven’t spoken to anyone unless I had to. None of my friends know what happened, I’m too embarrassed to come across as the crazy ex-girlfriend who got her heart broken because she can’t mind her own business.

Aside from class I’ve been lying down rotting for the past seven days, going back and forth on if I’m in the wrong or if I’m valid in my feelings. Garrett was right, my best friend is a guy, but I’ve known him since middle school. We know everything about each other, he’s like family. Garrett threw everything away for a girl he had just met, deleting text messages and completely failing to ever mention her name in conversation.

My body feels like it’s physically reacting, my muscles aching and my head throbbing. My mind races with questions.

How can someone who I poured so much of my love into take it and wring it down the drain?

How can I even feel angry? He just wanted a new friend.

Why did he like all of her pictures, even the first embarrassing one she ever posted in 2013?

Why are you so controlling?

Why didn’t he tell me?

Why do you care so much? It’s just Tristan’s cousin.

Is it bad for my boyfriend to like pictures of a girl in a hot tub?

I hear my phone vibrating, but I can’t even find the energy to move the comforter off of my body. I put a pillow over my ears and try to wish it away. I’m tired of the questions. I don’t want to explain why I’ve seemed down.

It keeps going off, vibrating against the wall over and over relentlessly. Huffing, I shove my hand down into the gap and dig for it, pulling it up and squinting as the screen beams light into my eyes.

“Party tonight at the same house as last week. Y/n please get off your lazy ass and come!!!”

“yeah y/n i need to see ur pretty face!”

“If Garrett gets mad tell him he can come too”

“its senior year pleaseee we don’t have many parties left :(“

My group chat is flooded with messages from my girl friends. I can’t even reply right now. Maybe getting out would be good for me, but I really want to sit in my two day old clothes and stuff my face with Oreos tonight. How dumb am I gonna look dancing alone?

My mind races for the next hour, contemplating whether going out will make me feel better or become a huge regret. Garrett and I never officially broke things off, we just haven’t talked in a week. What if he’s pining over it like I am? I can’t exactly just dance my feelings away with some random guy when I don’t even know the status of my relationship.

After a phone call from Sophie and a lot of convincing, I decide it would be best for me to get out tonight. I need the interaction, and maybe a couple drinks if someone was able to bum them from their college friends. I need to hear music, I need to speak with other humans. But I can’t go alone.

My phone hovers over Chris’s name, worried I might wake him up since it’s already late. I click it anyway, the dial tone only going off twice before I hear his voice on the other side.

“Y/n/n, what’s up!” he chirps.

I smile to myself, my best friend always cheering me up whether he knows it or not. “You know, the usual. Coming up with a blue print for a new and improved Golden Gate Bridge. You?”

“Fuck off,” he stifles his laughter. “I’m watching some show Nick and Matt told me about. For real though, what’s up?”

“Sophie is begging me to go to a party tonight. You down to be my plus one?” I question as I shuffle through my closet.

“Garrett didn’t wanna go?” he asks puzzled.

I take a moment and debate whether or not I want to tell him. I really don’t want to bring down the mood of the night. I’m supposed to be having fun.

“Nah, not tonight. He’s on some boys trip upstate.” I lie through my teeth.

“Sounds lame. I’ll be there, what time?” He asks and I hear rustling, presumably him getting up off the couch or his bed.

“Uhhhh like two hours….” I trail off, nervous it might be too short of notice.

“Alright, I’ll meet you at your house and we can walk together.”

“Perfect! Thank you Chrissy.” I feel tears well up in my eyes, actual happiness igniting, even if only a small spark, for the first time in a week.

“Don’t thank me, weirdo.” He laughs. “See ya dude.” The line goes silent.

I spend the next couple hours taking everything slow. I eat a meal, my first fulfilling one since that night. I wash my face, do my hair, throw on makeup to look and feel more alive. I decide on a maroon slip dress, silky and comfortable. As I’m saying my goodbyes to my parents and about to walk out the door, my phone vibrates in my hand.

“What color are you wearing?”

“Maroon!”

I smile as I text him back, knowing he’s gonna wear something to coordinate our looks. As cringe as it may be, that’s just Chris.

We meet exactly where we planned, the chill in the air causing us to walk shoulder to shoulder for any sort of warmth. We don’t talk much, but the silence is comfortable. We never felt the need to force something out of nothing. Nothing is everything with him.

We walk in and we’re immediately greeted by Sophie and a bunch of other people she’s been hanging around.

“Y/n!” She pulls me into a hug. “Where’s Garrett? Hey Chris!” She waves in his direction.

“Boys trip.” I shrug, going into as little detail as possible.

“Oh, well I’m SO glad you came. You haven’t been yourself the last few days.” She says while giving me a look of genuine concern.

“Class has been super stressful,” I lie. “But I’m so glad I came too!”

Chris smiles as he listens in on our conversation, waving at various people who greet him in passing.

He looks so handsome. He’s wearing a maroon sweater with a button up peeking out from underneath and some jeans that fall perfectly over his long legs. I’ve always been so jealous of his ability to throw anything together and make it an outfit, a good one at that.

“Chrissy I love your outfit,” I whisper in his ear, the music too loud to try to talk from a distance.

“Had to layer, it’s too cold for a ratty tshirt,” he jokes. “But I could say the same to you. You look gorgeous.” He smiles and bumps his shoulder against mine.

The night goes on and we drink, dance, take goofy photos in front of a prop wall, and talk to so many fucking people. I’ve went over my social meter for the night, but Chris looks like he’s having so much fun and I would never say anything to ruin that. He makes his way back over to me after a round of beer pong that he absolutely crushed everyone else at.

“I wanna get one more picture in front of the prop wall and then I think I’m gonna call it a night. Gonna walk to McDonalds if you wanna comeee..” he sing songs, giving me a pleading look.

“Thank fuck,” I laugh, relief washing over me. “I was done an hour ago. Just didn’t wanna take the experience away from you.”

“That’s crazy because I was also done an hour ago, but I thought you were having a good time.” He laughs, his nose scrunching up.

We walk over to the prop wall and find someone to snap a photo for us. I grab a pair of red heart glasses, he grabs a bow tie on a stick and holds it up to his neck.

“3.. 2.. 1… and cheese!” The girl slurs before the flash blinds us.

She tosses me my phone and we thank her before slipping out the door, thankfully going unnoticed by Sophie. We giggle and walk alongside each other on the sidewalk, the smell of dewy late night air flooding my nose. The streetlights carve out Chris’s cheekbones as he looks down at me, rambling about nothing and everything all at once. I listen intently, glad to have my mind on anything other than what it’s been rampant with recently.

“It’s fucking cold,” I complain as I cross my arms across my chest and rub some friction onto them.

“Here.” Chris quickly stops in his tracks and pulls his sweater off, his button up left behind. He tosses it my way and gives me a small smile.

It smells like him as I slip it over my head and bring the sleeves over my hands.

“Thank you.”

We make it to McDonald’s relatively quickly. Chris holds the door open for me and we order our food and find a booth to wait in. My feet ache and my hair just feels tangled.

“What a fucking night. I can’t wait to crash after this,” I sigh and lay my head on the table.

His hand comes down to rub my hair, a sweet gesture he loves to do. His love language has always been physical touch.

“Aww, I was hoping you’d hang out with me a little longer. I’ve got ideas!” He whines.

I look up at him with a raised eyebrow. You never know what this kid is going to come up with in the spur of the moment.

“Just wanted to walk around that nature park down the road. Seems spooooky at night.” He laughs and turns his head, standing up as the cashier calls out our number.

We laugh and eat, my mind completely free of any thoughts besides how much fun I’m having with Chris. Ever since we met in 6th grade art class he’s known how to keep a smile on my face. He’s the kind of person you can’t help but be drawn to. His laugh alone is infectious, filling up any room he’s in. He’s such an attentive friend, which is why I’m not surprised when his mood shifts and he starts to question me.

“So what’s been going on, Y/n/n?” He looks down at his fries and scoots them around.

Do we really need to do this right now? I’m prepared to sink back into my sadness once I’m alone. I don’t plan on telling anyone until I’m sure of where we stand myself.

“Uh, nothing really,” I mumble, taking a sip of my blue Powerade. “Just stressed from assignments and stuff I guess.”

“Not gonna fool me, kid. What’s up?” He looks me in the eye this time.

His blue eyes hold so much genuine concern. They flicker back and forth between my own and he blinks slowly awaiting my response.

“It’s Garrett.” I admit.

“What about him this time?” He huffs as his eyes harden, sitting back against his side of the booth with his arms across his chest.

“He… I don’t know. He crossed a boundary and I wasn’t comfortable with it,” I start, breaking eye contact and pushing my hair behind my ear. “And then he acted like I was out of line. He dropped me off at my house and I haven’t heard from him since.”

His gaze softens and he puts his elbows on the table, scooting closer to me with a knowing look. “I figured it had something to do with that. You know I can read you like a book. So is it over, or…?”

“I don’t know. He didn’t say, and I haven’t even tried to reach out.” I close my box of chicken nuggets as my appetite fizzles away.

“I’m so sorry, Y/n. He fucking sucks.” He leaves it at that and gathers all our trash. “Let’s go.”

We walk to a nearby gas station in silence, the mood heavier this time. I wander around the snack aisle as he makes his purchase. I hear the bell on the door ring and look over as he holds it open and nods his head at me. The black bag swings lazily at his side as we walk to the park.

“What did you get?” I ask as we settle on a bench under a lamp post.

“Cigarettes. Oh and a lighter.” He says casually as he pulls them out of the bag.

“What the fuck,” I laugh, my eyes widening as I realize he’s serious. “Why?”

He shrugs, “I don’t know, just figured we could try something new. You’re stressed and shit so I kinda just thought it would be nice, I don’t know.” He flicks his thumb across the lighter and the yellow flame illuminates his face before he blows it out.

“I mean.. I guess. I’m probably gonna cough super bad.” I laugh and straighten my legs in front of me, crossing my ankles.

“Eh, fuck it. I probably will too.” He laughs and rips the pack open.

He brings a cigarette between his lips and holds it there, cupping a hand around it to block the wind. His other hand comes up with the lighter and sparks it a couple times before he gets it to light. He holds the flame against the end and draws in a breath, the tip glowing red as it catches fire. He immediately pulls it away from his mouth and coughs loudly, standing up and holding his chest.

“What… the FUCK.” He says between heaving coughs, small puffs of smoke escaping his mouth each time.

I can’t help but laugh, throwing my hands over my mouth and taking in the sight in front of me. He shakes his head back and forth with his eyes closed, his brown waves flopping around. He extends his arm to me and squats down trying to take control over his breath again.

“Good fuckin’ luck.” He coughs out.

I lean forward and grab it between my fingers, his warm ones brushing mine in the process. He looks up and smiles before shaking his head in disgust again.

“So fucking dizzy.” He says as he sits down fully on the asphalt.

“Baby’s first nicotine buzz!” I joke, stopping my laughter quickly as he squints his eyes at me.

I bring the cigarette between my lips and drag on it, my lungs immediately filling with thick, rancid smelling smoke. I cough one big time and try to hold it in, puffing my cheeks out and attempting to hold my breath. My chest starts burning and my eyes are watering, and my body instinctively coughs over and over to try to clear my airway. I see Chris laughing through my blurry vision, smacking his knees and stomping a foot on the ground.

“Oh… my.. god.” I choke out, my head spinning and my fingers erupting with a static feeling.

“Yeah, shit’s no joke. How do people enjoy this?” He stands up and drags himself back over to the bench, reclaiming his spot beside me and grabbing the cigarette from me.

I cough on and off, still trying to rid my lungs of the contaminants. I throw my head back and my hair dangles off the backrest of the bench. Chris’s hand finds its way to me and strokes my hair softly and slowly. I bring my head back up and look at him, shaking my head with disappointment.

“Can’t believe you would do that to me.” I tease through a stifled smile.

“Just wanted to see what it was like..” he giggles and brings it back to his lips, the end glowing again as he takes a smaller puff.

He coughs once or twice as the smoke billows out of his mouth and dissipates into the foggy air around us. He looks at me with wide eyes. “Hey, that one wasn’t so bad!” He holds it back out to me, gesturing me to try again.

“Uhh.. I think I’m good. My lungs feel like they’re collapsing.” I push his hand back.

“You should try one more time..” he looks away in thought before snapping his head back. “What if we shotgun? I’ll take the brunt of the smoke and you can have whatever’s leftover. It’ll be less harsh that way.”

I’m sorry, but shotgunning a cigarette? First of all, that’s nasty. Does not sound appealing in the slightest. Secondly, I can’t fathom bringing my lips that close to Chris.

“Uhhh..” I trail off and shake my head slightly.

“Come onnnn Y/n/n!” He pouts, scooting closer to me on the bench. “I’m not gonna peer pressure you into it if you really don’t want to..” he says seriously.

“Fine. ONE more time.” I say and narrow my eyes at him.

He nods furiously and scoots even closer, our thighs touching and his cologne strong in the breeze. I can see every detail of his face under the light of the lamp post. His bushy but clean brows, his smile lines, his pink lips wet from obsessively licking them. His hair falls over his eyes as he brings the cigarette back into his mouth and takes a big drag. His eyes widen and he grabs my face in a rush, his warm hand against my cold cheek.

He pulls me close and our noses brush against each other. Time feels like it slows down to a crawl. I open my mouth and he does the same, our lips micrometers apart. His hot breath mixed with the smoke fan over my face as his eyes close, his long eyelashes fanning across his cheeks. I can feel heat in my cheeks that I’ve never felt around him.

He exhales as I inhale, the smoke that was once in his lungs filling my own. I take all that I can and he stays for what feels like a moment too long, his icy blue eyes opening to lock onto mine. I feel a weird pit in my stomach and the blood stills in my veins. Why am I feeling like this?

He pulls back and scans over my face, watching as I exhale and a comically small puff of smoke blows out.

“Well, that was lame.” He laughs and brushes his hair back.

“Yeah, little bit.” I agree flatly.

We sit in silence and finish the cigarette together, our lungs adjusting and my mind racing. I try to take my mind off the feeling of his thigh still brushing against mine, but the nicotine doesn’t have any effect at all. I thought these things are supposed to relieve stress.

Once we’ve burnt it to the end, he rubs the bud against the asphalt and flicks it away. It rolls until it hits the curb and we both sigh at the same time. We look at eachother and laugh at our ‘jinx’ moment, not knowing just how different we were feeling internally but thankful that we feel no pressure to be perfect when we were together.

“I’m so thankful to have a friend like you, Chrissy.” I smile and blow some warm air into my frozen hands.

He smiles lazily at me for a second, an almost sad look flashing across his eyes as his hand comes to lay on top of mine and stroke the back of it with his thumb. “Don’t know what I’d do without ya.”

•••

The morning sun comes out from hiding, her rays illuminating his brown hair on his pillow beside me. I watch his chest rising and falling steadily, a calming rhythm that could lull me back to sleep any day. Nothing makes me happier than waking up and feeling warmth on his side of the bed. I feel whole in his presence.

I look around at our bedroom and realize just how far we’ve come. We’ve both left the comfort of our parents homes and have made these four walls our own. Piece by piece we made a sanctuary like a bird collecting sticks and paper straw wrappers for its nest. I could go anywhere with him and build a nest. He makes everything okay.

I take my phone off the charger and scroll around aimlessly, hoping not to disturb his sleep, his pink lips hanging open and his eyes moving under his lids. I go through instagram and flip through recipes, gym videos, and dog compilations before I’m bored and close it out. I try Facebook and my distant older relatives have flooded my timeline with political garbage, so I close it out too. I open Snapchat and see a memory, smiling as I start to click through the photos and videos taken on this day from the previous years.

The first video plays, a snippet from last year of us in his car, lip syncing to one of our favorite songs. The next one is from the same night, a photo of him with his arm around me in front of the door to our then-new apartment. His eyes shimmered with happiness, mine mirroring his own with a huge smile plastered on my face.

I click again and watch as our past plays out on the screen in front of me. I can’t help but feel so thankful for the way everything worked out. So much would be different if the world hadn’t knitted us in the exact pattern it planned, one frayed thread and I wouldn’t be sitting in this room with the love of my life.

Click

My smile fades as I scan over the photo. I reminisce on the night, remembering everything as if it were a movie playing in my brain. They used to be some of the best times of my life. He made me so happy.

It’s strange how well you can know the inner workings of someone, sometimes more than your own. You know the temperature they like to drink their water, their favorite salad dressing, the commercials that make them cry. And you sit together and watch the commercials from time to time, because you know the end makes them smile again.

It’s strange how quickly it can all fizzle out, both of you existing in the world without a clue of who the person could be today. Here one minute and gone the next. I know he’s out there. He knows I’m out here. But who is he?

How different would my life had been if I did end up with him? Would I have had the same opportunities, the same zeal for life, would I be happier? Would it be my single biggest regret?

I wonder if he thinks about me and everything we went through together. I wonder if he remembers the angsty songs we played in his car late at night, or the scent of the air freshener I always bought for him when he ran out. Does he wonder what his life would be like with me, or has he moved on and found his own paper straw wrappers?

I know he was in love with me. I knew I loved him. But sometimes things are star-crossed and confusing and they hurt and there’s nothing we can do about it. Sometimes the right people come into your life at the wrong time. Do we pine about it forever, or do we let the world continue knitting while hoping the strings don’t fray?

I look over the photo once more, our shadows on the ground innocent and unaware of the future.

I look over and the boy beside me stretches his arms above him and takes in a deep breath before turning over to me, his brown waves a mess. He smiles from ear to ear and I can’t help but return it.

“Morning, baby.”

“Good morning, Garrett.”

a/n: i sobbed many times writing this im sorry if you like happy endings

taglist: @lustfulslxt @whotfisade @soursturniolo @recklesssturniolo @lxvlysworld @chrisolivia4l @kiarastromboli @mattnchrisworld @cupidsword @kvtie444 @xplrfear @knowingnothingnoel

[im-a-writer--im-in-distress]

Dog or Cat

Insert with: Ruhn Danaan

Reader: Female (she/her)

Words: 800+

About: Just a little fun.

Warning(s): N/A

A/N: Day Four of Ruhn Week 2024! The prompt is "Free Day". @ruhnweek New stories all week!

Bryce sat cross-legged on the floor. "I've got one: Who among us has a dog personality or a cat personality?”

Her mate leaned forward from his place on the couch behind her, raising an eyebrow. “You mean, like, loyal and playful versus independent and judgmental?”

"Sounds like you don't want to be a cat?"

"Not at all," he said, leaning back into his spot. "I see cat. Independent, like my space, and not too big on being told what to do.”

Declan Emmet, busy fiddling with his tech gadgets in his lap, didn't even look up. “Nah, Hunt, you’re a dog. You’re fiercely loyal and protective, especially when it comes to Bryce.”

Bryce laughed. “Like a guard dog. A big, grumpy, overprotective one.”

Hunt rolled his eyes but it couldn't hide the smile on his lips. “Fine, fine. Dog it is.”

"What about me?" Bryce asked, pleased with her own game.

Ithan chimed in, “You’re a total dog, Bryce." "That sounds like she should be offended," Ruhn beamed Ithan with the ball he'd been tossing in the air. The shifter yelped.

“What if I wanted to be a mysterious, aloof cat?”

"You're about as aloof as a golden retriever, Bryce." Tristan snorted, propping his head up with a pillow. "You can’t even fake it.”

Ruhn chuckled. “Sorry, sis. You’re definitely more dog than cat.”

Bryce gave a mock-salute. “Alright, dog it is.”

Tristan pointed at Declan. “The cat in the room is right there. Always always doing his own thing, always playing with his tech."

“I can live with that.”

"Plus, you’ve got that whole ‘don’t mess with my stuff’ vibe.” Ithan added. "You learned that from experience?" Hunt teased. Everyone laughed at his expense.

"What about Flynn?” Ithan asked. "'Cause I think it's pretty obvious he's a dog."

Flynn grinned widely. “Oh, I’m definitely a dog. I love hanging out, meeting new people, having a good time.”

Ruhn shook his head. “He's the poster boy for dog personalities. Couldn't even pick a breed.”

Bryce pointed at her brother. “What about you, Ruhn?"

“Hey, what about me?” Ithan whined.

“Oh, please, you’re a dog,” Bryce said.

Ithan feigned indignation. "I don't know. I can be pretty particular about who I let in my circle."

"No way," Flynn said, picking his head up to look at him from his sprawl on the floor. "You've got the whole ‘faithful companion’ thing down.”

"Always looking for belly rubs and treats, too, just like a good boy,” Declan added in a baby voice.

"Why are we picking on Ithan?" You said, walking into the apartment and putting down your purse and coat.

"We're picking dog or cat personalities for everyone," Ruhn filled you in as you leaned down to kiss him.

"Yeah, and Ithan honestly thinks he's a cat," Flynn said.

Ithan shrugged, accepting his fate. “Nah, I'm a dog. I just didn't want you to assume the obvious choice.”

"Who's next?" You asked.

The room turned towards Ruhn, who looked at you. “What do you think? Which am I?"

“Oh, that’s easy," you said, plopping down next to him. "Ruhn’s a cat.”

Flynn waved his hands in protest. “No way! He’s a dog. He’s always got our backs when we need him.”

"Definitely the most dependable guy I know," Ithan said.

Declan shook his head. “Nah, he’s got that brooding, independent vibe. Y/N's right."

"Loyal, protective, overbearing," Bryce eyed her brother on the last word. "I don't know. I see both."

Hunt chimed in, “He’s a mix, for sure. He’s loyal like a dog but has that mysterious, keeps-to-himself quality of a cat.”

Ruhn smirked at you, "Apparently, you're dating a mystery."

“No, you're a cat," you said, a smile on your lips, before turning to the others. "He hangs out with all of you guys, who are complete dogs, and you've rubbed off on him. But deep down, he’s a cat. 100%.”

Dec raised a hand. "Point of order, we decided I'm a cat. I am not responsible for rubbing off on him."

"No. No, no," you said, pointing a finger at him. "You are not a cat. You're more like a parrot."

Hunt glanced at Bryce. "I didn't know that was an option," he muttered to her.

"A parrot?" Bryce asked you.

"Yeah. He's either perched somewhere with his tech," —you waved a hand at Declan's lap— "or you're squawking gossip."

Flynn and Ithan coughed and covered their mouths as an ohh, burnnn came out, while Bryce and Ruhn nearly fell over laughing. Hunt just barely covered his reaction.

Dec's eyes burned into yours. "And what are you, the cat that ate the canary?"

"Something like that." But your smirk couldn't hide your smile.

Ruhn pressed his lips against your shoulder, still laughing. "That's my girl," he whispered.

"Well, there's no doubt what Y/N is," Hunt said.

You mimicked a cat's claw. "Rowr."

[marchsfreakshow]

Having Their Fill [JPM & The Countess]

Angst. Almost smut.

You knew The Countess switches lovers like that. It upset you and wished to not have be cursed the blood virus anymore. That meant being hers forever.

Warnings: blood mention, body checking, self image talk, weight talk, implied smut & dub-con. Fem!reader

I love this idea, and I hope you like this little thing I made up. Literally re-watching Hotel so I can get this out.

Your perspective.

⊹˚.⋆ ₊꒷ᘏᘏ︶ଓ︶꒷꒦⊹˚ᗢ₊꒷︶ଓ︶꒷

I stared at the image in the mirror. My gorgeous girlfriend, I guess you could call her that, The Countess, bought me it so she could have me look at myself during sex. Why? Fuck if I know. My eyes were always shut closed because of how made me feel while we were fucking. The stars always aligned when we were together, but I never took it too much to heart. Tristan and Liz told me that eventually she would get bored, throw me out and leave me be on the streets.

The body in front of me wasn't fun. It's not interesting, nothing is correct. No one would like this body. Too fat, too thin, too ugly, too skinny, too curvy. Everything and nothing at the same time. A loud sigh escaped me as she came in. "You've been staring at yourself for an hour love.." She said, walking towards me and my naked body. "Never doubt yourself. You're so beautiful. My lovely girl forever."

"Unlikely." I snorted.

"What do you mean?" Her eyes narrowed. People disagreeing with her meant death, but I could never believe her. She let me go and I got dressed. Slowly. My hands felt weak, I couldn't do much. It felt lonely here sometimes.

"I know you. I've been told about your past lovers...it's just a matter of time until you let me go and find another." Trousers on, still shirtless but wearing a bra. Looking up in the mirror, I saw her staring at my reflection.

"That may be true. You are so much different than the people before you." She placed a calm hand on my shoulder, but I slapped it away.

"Not fucking likely! You turn them, make them love you then throw them away or kill them!! How can I fucking love you so much when that fate awaits me.." Seething my teeth, I threw on my shirt lazily, barely doing up the bottom buttons. She did nothing but stand there and watch. As silent and still as ever. My stuff was in my hands just as quickly as I left. Leaving in a huff probably wasn't the best idea, but I just had to go somewhere else. Maybe talk to Liz.

Stomping down the hallways, I sighed and let all thoughts fall past me. Walking quickly was tiring, but my footsteps fell silent as I reached room 64. Another sigh left me, and I knocked on the door slowly, my head hung in slight embarrassment. A creak. "Little bird. Hello my dear."

"James.." I sniffed. His eyebrows furrowed and placed a hand on my back, walking me into the room. "It's..."

"The Countess? Dear, you must realise that she does not like staying with one person for so long."

"she stayed with you."

"I am stuck here, she lives here on her own terms. We have an arrangement so I can see her once every month. It has been this way for as long as I have been a ghost my bird."

I huffed again and crossed my arms, looking away from the ghost. He raised an eyebrow at me. "You should not be so upset with me, you said yes to this deal when the Countess and I agreed to share you."

"share me? That's fucking rich." I chuckled.

"You do remember the deal do you not little hummingbird?" As a response I nodded, barely meeting his eyes. He hummed and smiled ever so slightly.

"doesn't mean you share me though. She has me more than you do."

"Yes, insatiable, isn't she?" His eyes wandered off into the distance, the smile only growing wider. It took everything in me to not slap some sense into him. So I clicked my tongue and sat on the table closest to me. "Either she will come and find you to end your life or I make it quicker and save her a job." James grinned, turning on his heel and walking into another part of his room.

"Both of you find intimacy in killing, it'll probably be the same either way," I mutter, sort of following him like a lost puppy. I didn't particularly find the intimacy in killing, nor did I want to die just yet, but I couldn't take having this ancient curse in me anymore.

"Love, our killings could not be more different." I heard The Countess say from the doorframe. James flashed a smile at her, as she moved her attention between him and me. "I must kill to keep myself alive. He kills for pleasure."

"you describe it so perfectly my dear." He smiled, resting a hand on her back. I rolled my eyes and looked away from the dead and barely-in-love couple.

"Little mouse, what are you thinking? You seem distracted."

"About maybe if I can be let go now? I'm fucking done." James clicked his tongue and shook his head. Well fuck, suppose I'm stuck here now.

The door was closed behind them and James walked behind me and held a knife on my stomach as he wrapped his hands around me. It elicited a quiet chuckle out of the glorified vampire, and she walked towards us. Wow, where was all this sudden tension coming from? I just sighed and rested my head on James' shoulder, deciding to go along with whatever they had planned. Kisses on my neck, my shirt slowly being pulled over my head. Cold fingers on my torso. It made me gasp and I shivered, almost cooling back from the ghost touches.

A sharp blade gently stung my belly, cringing at the feeling. But I felt more kisses and licks, and my trousers, slowly being pulled down from my legs. Freezing air flew past me, causing more shivers. Incoherent whispers as The Countess stood up slowly, and placed a gentle hand on James' shoulder. I could feel their wicked smiles.

My back on the bed, scratchy sheets and then sharps and stings.

A long nail against my neck.

A knife under my breasts.

Heavy breaths.

God, I felt divine, and like I actually needed them. This fucking effect the both of them had on me. "Fuck.." I moaned out.

"You're a good girl, mouse."

James in me, The Countess admiring every part of my body and keeping a hand around my neck, whatever claws she owned, teasing every vein.

It was only a few minutes later when absolute silence.

What on earth was this darkness? Lovingly enveloping me, and making me feel warm.

Then I opened my eyes and I was looking at red. A body dressed in a green sweater and dirty jeans. My sweater and dirty jeans.

My back hit a chest.

"You died wonderfully my little bird." Oh fuck.

"James..." I whimpered, turning on my heel and hitting his collarbones. But the Countess grabbed my hands and pulled them back to behind me.

"None of that now mouse."

What the fuck was happening?? Why? I didn't plan on dying just now. But by the hands of the ones who owned and breathed this hotel. What the fuck else could I do?

"Jesus fuck..."

"you are now here with us for eternity my sweet. You are allowed to switch between the two of us for as long as you please."

Well, Christ okay. Despite the sudden hollowness of not being alive, I pressed a gentle kiss onto the Countess' cheek.

"fine...okay, just, can my body be removed or something?"

"Of course, it can love." The Countess smiled, petting my hair.

Eternity is going to be long...

⊹˚.⋆ ₊꒷ᘏᘏ︶ଓ︶꒷꒦⊹˚ᗢ₊꒷︶ଓ︶꒷

Tag: @babygorewhore @nahoyasboyfriend @coentinim @slvt4jamesmarch @slutforgarlogan @feefymo

[ally-writes-many-things]

Firestarter (Tristan Flynn) 18+

Summary: You had a crush on Flynn for all of your life but being Dec's little sister, Flynn never looked at her like that.

Words: 6.4K

Warnings or A/N: thinking about doing a part 2. Towards the end of the story, there is a very descriptive smut. MDNI with this story.

Art

Tristan Flynn had this charm to him that could draw females towards him with just a single glance, while his intimidating glare could send enemies fleeing in fear. It was this captivating thing that had initially sparked your crush on him.

Currently, he was seated in an armchair, with a dryad nestled on his lap. You couldn't help but let out a sigh, tearing your eyes away and taking a sip from your cup. "Are you interested, Emmett?"

"Interested in what?" You asked in confusion.

"We're all heading to the White Raven. Are you in?" came the question.

"You two have the biggest mouths in town," you heard Bryce remark, causing you to turn your head and see Bryce standing next to Declan, Flynn, and her cousin.

Flynn winked mischievously at her. "I thought you enjoyed my mouth."

"Keep dreaming, lordling," Bryce responded with a smirk.

You glanced at Bryce, taking in her captivating beauty. She exuded confidence with her voluptuous figure, flawless complexion, and mesmerizing eyes. Her vibrant red hair cascaded down her back in gentle waves. She was undoubtedly Flynn's type, unlike yourself. While you knew you were hot, you couldn't compare to Bryce Quinlin's allure. As she turned around and spotted you, a warm smile adorned her face. "Hey, (Name)."

Returning her greeting, you offered a sweet smile in return. "Hey, Bryce."

Although jealousy occasionally flickered towards Bryce and the attention Flynn showed her, you didn't hold it against her. After all, she couldn't control how others perceived her. Glancing briefly at Flynn, who was currently engaged in a steamy makeout session with the dryad, you refocused your attention on your group of friends. Placing your cup down, you nodded. "Let's do it."

☾⋆｡𖦹 °✩⋆

Upon waking up, a pulsating headache throbbed in your head, accompanied by a knocking at your front door. As you opened your bedroom door, you saw your friends sprawled on the floor, fast asleep alongside some unfamiliar guys. Before you could even make your way towards the door, it swung open, revealing Dec standing there. He glanced at the males scattered across your living room floor before directing a pointed look towards you. In response, you rolled your eyes and approached him, firmly placing your hand on his shoulder and guiding him out of your house. "What have I told you about coming into my house uninvited?"

"If you had answered your door the first fifty times or even responded to my calls, I wouldn't have to," he retorted.

"Why are you going through all this trouble?" you inquired.

"Because I turned my attention away from you for a moment and you vanished. I just assumed you had left, but then neither you nor your friends could be reached," he explained.

Your heart began to race. Has something happened to Flynn or Ruhn? "What's happened? Are Flynn and Ruhn alright?"

"Yeah, they're fine," he reassured.

"Why are you here at seven in the morning?" you pressed.

"Just checking on you, since nobody could find you at the party and you were ignoring your phone. Now I know why you were busy sleeping with those guys, who knows what they wanted," he remarked sharply.

Perplexed, you blinked at your brother, wondering why he was speaking to you in such a manner. His best friends frequently slept with random women, after all. "Hold on, are you seriously lecturing me for sleeping with random guys when your roommates do the exact same thing with women? Do you honestly believe I'm foolish enough to bring males home? They brought them here. I didn't even know until I woke up. Declan, you of all people should know I would never do that. I'm not that type of woman," You said, releasing a frustrated sigh.

Declan pulled you into a hug, and you reciprocated. "I just tend to get overprotective. I'm your older brother. It's my duty to look out for you," he admitted.

"D, you made sure I could fend for myself when you're not around. You, Ruhn, and Flynn all did," you asserted, stepping away from the embrace. "I'm not that little girl anymore. Your job is complete."

Declan offered a sad smile. "My responsibility to protect you doesn't end simply because you've grown up. I will always be there for you."

"Yeah, yeah. Now, get to the Aux before they fire your ass," you teased.

☾⋆｡𖦹 °✩⋆

As you stepped into the dimly lit atmosphere of the White Raven, you couldn't help but notice the various scenes unfolding around you. Some people were indulging in drugs in the corners, while others were drowning themselves in alcohol or dancing on the dance floor. Over to the right, in the VIP section, you spotted Ruhn, Declan, Flynn and the dryad from the other night. You rolled your eyes, already sensing that your night was about to become less enjoyable, but you were determined not to let them ruin your fun. You led your friends to your usual table and ordered a round of drinks.

Just as the waiter returned with your beverages, Flynn's dryad friend started making her way towards your table. You let out a sigh, knowing how this was going to play out. "Here we go," you muttered.

"She's going to try to act like she's Flynn's girlfriend," one of your friends predicted.

"They always do," another chimed in.

“If you need anything else, let the bartender know. My name is Myles,” The waiter winked at you three before sauntering away, and just as he did, the dryad approached your table.

She opened her mouth to speak, but your friend interrupted her. "Before you say anything to (Name), just know that you're not special. Flynn will keep you around for, what, two or maybe three weeks before he gets bored and tosses you aside," Your friend sneered.

The dryad's eyes narrowed at your friend before shifting her gaze to you. "Everyone knows that you have a crush on Flynn, but he's not interested in you at all. He's only friends with you because you're his best friend's little sister," she retorted.

You chuckled and turned to face her. "Have you ever noticed the hair tie on his right wrist?"

The dryad nodded. "Yes, what about it?"

"It's mine. I gave it to him a few years ago to hold for me and forgot about it. When I asked for it back, he refused, saying that it's like a piece of me is always with him. So, if you think I don't matter to him, I dare you to go ask him to take it off," You explained calmly as you took a sip of your drink.

The dryad's eyes narrowed further before silently walking back towards the VIP section. "You know Flynn won't be happy about this, right?" she warned.

"I couldn't care less. If he doesn't want me telling off his bitches, he should keep them from running their mouths to me," you replied, undeterred.

You finished your drink and sat it down on the table. With a carefree spirit, you sauntered onto the dance floor, ready to let loose and allow the music to wash over you. As the rhythm embraced you, your body effortlessly swayed and grooved, purely in sync with the music in the club. Your moves became more intricate and mesmerizing with each passing beat.

The bass thumped through your body, elevating your mood and intensifying your connection with the music. With each step, you felt a surge of electricity running through your veins, pulsating with the rhythm. The crowd around you seemed to fade away, and it was just you and the music, in a euphoric trance.

The colorful lights danced across your skin, accentuating your fluid movements and creating an aura of mystique. Everything else became a blur as you surrendered yourself to the music, allowing it to guide you, to release any inhibitions or worries that burdened you.

As you felt a touch on your hips, you turned around to discover that it was Myles, the waiter. Myles was hot and you wanted to feel every inch of him, causing you to realize that you were now ready to move on from Flynn. The constant presence of Flynn's bitches approaching you with intentions to intimidate, driven by their jealousy, had grown tiresome. Wrapping your arms around his neck, you found solace in placing your back against his chest while the rhythm of the club music guided your movements.

Feeling his warmth and steady heartbeat against your back, you let yourself relax and melt into him. His strong arms encircled your waist, pulling you closer. The pulsating beats of the music resonated through your bodies, synchronizing your movements and creating an intoxicating dance between the two of you.

As you closed your eyes, you willingly submitted to the music, allowing it to gently guide your bodies closer in an intimate embrace. Softly, his warm breath whispered against your ear, presenting a question, "Would you like to continue this elsewhere?"

In response, you subtly released your arms from around his neck and nodded in agreement. "Absolutely," You responded with certainty.

☾⋆｡𖦹 °✩⋆

"And today she simply yelled at me," The dryad recounted.

He nodded his head passively as he endured the dryad's ceaseless prattle. The subject matter held no interest for him whatsoever. Together, they made their way to the White Raven to meet with Ruhn and Declan, intending to drown their collective stress with copious amounts of alcohol. Although it had been several days since he had last spoken to you, an underlying annoyance nagged at Flynn. Yet, he forced himself to suppress those rising thoughts as he approached Ruhn and Declan. "Yo, Flynn. We've got a couple glasses of your regular order," Ruhn announced.

"Sweet," Flynn replied, accepting one of the glasses and swiftly consuming its contents.

The trio struggled to engage in any meaningful conversation, thanks to the incessant ramblings of the dryad. Just as Flynn was contemplating ordering another drink, Ruhn's gaze fixated upon someone, causing a mischievous grin to form on his face. "She's going to cause trouble for us tonight," Ruhn remarked.

Curiosity piqued, both Declan and Flynn directed their gaze towards the same individual. True to Ruhn's prediction, she was definitely going to cause trouble for them tonight. Clad in a short form-fitting black dress with a captivating hollow halter neckline that accentuated her every curve, her hair flowed elegantly down her back. Flynn couldn't help but be captivated by her hair, as he often was. He loved your hair.

She exchanged a pleasant smile with one of the males as he walked by, instantly capturing Flynn's attention. He became tense when he noticed that almost all the males in the club were fixated on her. His gaze followed her as she led her group of friends to their regular table and placed an order with the waiter. Flynn noticed the dryad casting a disapproving glare at him, but he paid no mind. All that mattered to him was keeping her within his sight, especially when she was dressed like that. He only realized that the dryad had left when she reached your table.

One of your friends said something to her, prompting the dryad to turn and address you. However, all you did was laugh and say something back before heading onto the dance floor. The dryad returned to Flynn and scrutinized his wrist. "If we're going to be together, I want you to remove that hair tie."

Ruhn and Declan winced upon hearing her demand, fully understanding the significance of that hair tie to Flynn. Declan glanced at the dryad. "I wouldn't do that."

"I refuse to date someone who keeps another woman's hair tie on his wrist. Take it off," the dryad insisted.

Flynn's hand instinctively touched the hair tie before he lifted his arm to show it to her. "You mean this hair tie?"

Flynn forced a laugh before locking eyes with the dryad. "Do you have any idea how annoying you are? Sure, you may be good in bed, but that doesn't make up for how unbearable you truly are. We are not dating, and we never will be. This hair tie will remain on my wrist, unless it breaks. Now, get the fuck out of the VIP section and lose my contact information."

The dryad attempted to voice her objection, but Ruhn swiftly indicated to the security guard to remove her. Flynn paid no further heed to the dryad, directing his gaze towards the dance floor until he spotted you. His heart sank as he witnessed you and the waiter moving your bodies to the music. His hands were against her waist, guiding you effortlessly across the crowded dance floor. There was something festering inside him but he didn't know what the feeling was.

With each beat of the music, his grip on his glass grew tighter, his knuckles turning white. His once easy going demeanor morphed into something unrecognizable - a mixture of turmoil, anger, and an unfamiliar emotion. He couldn't stand the sight any longer, couldn't bear to see you leaving the White Raven with another male.

He got out of his seat to push the waiter away from you but he was halted by Declan. "Don't," he urged.

Confused, Flynn exclaimed, "What do you mean, don't? She's leaving with him,”

Declan calmly took a sip of his drink and sighed. "She is a grown woman, whom we have all trained. She is fully capable of handling herself, and she knows that we are just a phone call away if she needs us."

Flynn glanced towards the exit of the white Raven, observing the two of you departing.

☾⋆｡𖦹 °✩⋆

To: Fireststarter

Hey.

To: Firestar.

I saw you leave the club with that guy. Just checking in. You good?

To: Firestar

Hello?

To: Firestar

(Name)

To: Fireststarter

Oh, so you can text Ruhn and Declan back but not me?

Flynn gazed at the multitude of messages he had sent you that remained unacknowledged or unseen. He had reached out to you this morning to check on your well-being, but upon receiving no response, a sense of worry had washed over him. Ruhn and Declan assured him that you were fine, but Flynn couldn't bring himself to fully accept their reassurances. After all, it was unlike you to disregard his messages. So, he found himself standing on your doorstep, inhaling deeply before rapping on the door with trepidation. "Coming," your voice echoed from within.

A surge of relief coursed through Flynn upon hearing your voice; you were safe. However, as you opened the door, his heart sank. Dressed in a male's shirt adorned with visible hickeys on your neck, you greeted him with a casual "Oh hey Flynn."

"Hey. I was just checking up on you. You never responded to any of my texts," he uttered, concern evident in his tone.

"Yeah, sorry about that. I had intended to, but got caught up with something," you explained.

"Yeah, that 'something' would be me," a male voice chimed in from behind the door.

You glanced back with amusement before redirecting your attention to Flynn. "Are we finished here? You can see that I'm alive."

Flynn nodded solemnly, and you promptly closed the door in his face.

☾⋆｡𖦹 °✩⋆

It has been several weeks, and Flynn has not heard from you much, maybe only two or three times. Surprisingly, Ruhn and even your own brother haven't heard from you much either. It was painful for Flynn, feeling like you were pushing him away, and he was unsure of how to handle the situation.

"Have you seen (Name)? She actually seems genuinely happy for once," Flynn overheard Ruhn and Declan talking in the kitchen.

Ruhn remarked. "I think it's all thanks to Myles," he added.

Flynn quietly approached the kitchen and noticed Declan and Ruhn standing next to the island with an opened box of pizza. "Nah," Declan replied, taking a slice. "While Myles may have played a role in her happiness, ultimately, it's her own doing. She's smart enough not to rely solely on one guy for her happiness."

At that moment, Flynn entered the kitchen and went to the fridge to grab a beer. He couldn't help but ask, "So, she's still with Myles?"

"As far as I know," Declan replied, taking a bite of his pizza.

Flynn's grip on the beer bottle tightened. "I don't understand what she sees in him. He's an arrogant asshole," he expressed his frustration.

Both Ruhn and Declan rolled their eyes. Flynn had been complaining about Myles ever since you walked out of the White Raven with him for the first time. "Come on, guys. No, he's not good for her. He's cutting her off from everyone," Flynn argued.

While Declan remained silent, Ruhn decided to speak up. "Actually, Declan and I hear from her almost every day, if not every night. Her friends also hear from her multiple times a day. He's not cutting her off from anyone," Ruhn clarified.

Flynn's heart skipped a beat upon hearing that news. "What?" he exclaimed in disbelief.

"The only person who seems to be cut off is you," Ruhn said softly.

Flynn's breathing became heavy as he processed the information. It felt as though his world was closing in on him. Could it be true that he was the only one you had distanced yourself from? What had he done wrong? "Why would she do that? I haven't done anything wrong," he questioned, feeling a mix of confusion and hurt.

Declan, who had remained silent on the matter, slammed his hands on the table. "You are right. You hasn't done anything wrong. Ever since she was young, she has had fucking feelings for you. But now that she has grown tired of waiting for your attention and moved on, you suddenly want to act jealous and talk shit about the person that is allowing her to do that? Stop treating her as if she is some kind of lost puppy. Leave my sister the fuck alone, Tristan," Declan stated with a venomous tone before storming out of the kitchen.

The only instances when people referred to him by his full name were when he made mistakes or if they were extremely angry with him. Flynn observed his best friend climbing the staircase to his room before turning his attention back to Ruhn. "I am not jealous. She has been with other people before," he explained as he took a seat on the bar stool.

Leaning against the counter, Ruhn crossed his arms over his chest. "This is different, and deep down, you know it," he asserted.

Flynn sighed and covered his face with his hands. "Yes, I do know that, but I can't quite pinpoint what it is. I have never had such anissue with her seeing other guys like this before."

"That's because you were use to her constant attention. Now that she no longer gives it to you, you realize that you never gave her a chance. You never gave that extraordinary, one-of-a-kind girl a real chance. The girl who would do anything for you, and now you can't," Ruhn replied.

Flynn uncovers his face and remarks, "You sound like you were in love with her."

"Maybe I once was, but it wasn't me that she wanted," Ruhn uttered, uncrossing his arms and leaving the room.

Flynn quietly eased himself off the barstool, swiftly draped his jacket over his shoulders, and exited his house. He needed some time alone to ponder over the emotions swirling inside him before discussing them with you. Was he experiencing these sentiments simply due to his familiarity with receiving your attention, or was he truly developing genuine feelings towards you?

As Flynn stepped outside, the cool afternoon air provided some clarity amidst the confusion in his mind. He strolled down the streets, his thoughts consumed by the question of his emotions towards you. The weight of his jacket, a familiar comfort, mirrored the weight of his contemplations.

Flynn had always appreciated your attention and cherished the moments you spent together. Whether it was engaging conversations or shared experiences, your presence in his life had become significant. Yet, as he delved deeper into his thoughts, he contemplated whether these sentiments were merely a result of familiarity or if they held true depth.

He recalled instances when your interactions transcended friendship, filling him with a sense of warmth and happiness. Moments where laughter came effortlessly, and conversations flowed effortlessly. But Flynn wondered if these were fleeting sparks that could scatter in the wind, leaving nothing but ashes behind.

As he continued his solitary walk, Flynn sifted through memories of shared experiences, both joyful and challenging. The genuine care and support you had shown him when he needed it most left a lasting impression. Your unwavering presence had forged a bond that he couldn't easily dismiss.

"Come on, Myles," a familiar voice beckoned.

Flynn's attention was immediately drawn to the voice and he spotted Myles with a different girl, seated at a restaurant's patio. Upon closer inspection, Flynn recognized her as one of your closest friends. A surge of anger coursed through his veins as he witnessed your best friend lean in and kiss Myles. When your friend noticed him, her eyes widened in shock and she muttered, "Oh, fuck."

"What's wrong?" Myles inquired, turning to face the source of the disturbance. Realizing Flynn's presence, he hurriedly stood up and retreated. "This isn't what you think," he pleaded.

Flynn's hand tightened into a clenched fist by his side as he confidently advanced a few steps. "Oh really? It looks like that you are cheating on (Name) with her best friend," he stated.

Myles stumbled backwards, guilt plastered across his face, intermingled with threads of shame. "Flynn, I can explain. It's not what you think," he stammered, his voice filled with panic.

Flynn clenched his fists. His gaze shifted towards your best friend, her expression a mixture of guilt and sorrow. Anguish jolted through his body, shoving away any lingering doubts or denial.

Flynn lunged forward, his fist colliding with Myles' cheekbone. The sickening crack echoed through the streets.

Myles recoiled, his hand instinctively reaching for his throbbing cheek. Anger and desperation twisted his features as he lunged forward himself, his fist aiming for Flynn's jaw. The punch landed, the sharp pain reverberating through Flynn's skull, but it only fueled his determination to wipe the grin off Myles' face.

Ignoring the dull pain that spread from his face, Flynn unleashed a torrent of punches, each fueled by a cocktail of raw emotion. Blow after blow, he vented his anger, that turned to pure wrath. Eventually, with each strike, Myles began to show the invisible cracks, his movements faltering, his strength waning.

And then, like a final act of defiance against the inevitable, Flynn summoned every ounce of courage he possessed. A powerful right hook, fueled by his pain and the agonizing realization of Myles' betrayal, landed squarely on his jaw. Myles crumbled onto the pavement, defeated and broken.

Flynn's gaze was squarely fixated on Myles, who was scattered on the pavement before shifting his attention towards the gathered crowd. He was well-aware that this incident would be broadcasted on the news later, but his indifference remained unshaken. Swiftly, he brushed away the trickling blood from his lip and turned his focus to your best friend. "You are nothing but a fucking whore that gets her ass beatwhen she finds out. I genuinely hope that once your employers become aware of what you did to their daughter, they ruin your pathetic ass life," he uttered, emphasizing his words with a formal tone. “She didnt deserve this. You don't deserve her,”

☾⋆｡𖦹 °✩⋆

When he got home, he disregarded the barrage of questions hurled at him by Ruhn. Explaining himself to him held no importance to him, only one he will explain himself to was you. Entering his bathroom in his room, he flicked on the light, fixing his gaze upon his reflection in the mirror. Various bruises marred his facial features, accompanied by a few cuts on his lip. The cut on his lip would likely heal within a few hours, while the bruises on his face would likely subside by tomorrow evening.

"Gods, Trist," You uttered, his eyes meeting yours through the mirror before he turned towards you directly. Clad in a simple CCU crop top and leggings, he greeted you with a slight smirk. "You should see the other guy," he sheepishly smiled.

Approaching him, you chuckled. "I already did. I was sent the video. Please, sit on your bed," You instructed, bending down to retrieve a cloth from the bottom drawer.

"Firestar-" he began to say.

Firestar.

He gave the nickname "Firestar" after witnessing your Drop and the manifestation of your fire manipulation abilities. Recognizing your initial disappointment upon discovering that you shared this power with Dec, he assured that you were the star among fire users, nicknaming you as Firestar.

“Sit down," you commanded assertively.

He nodded, retreating to his bed, while you soaked a cloth in water. Witnessing you wringing out the excess water from the rag over the sink, he was momentarily captivated. Turning off the bathroom light, you approached him, assuming a position on your knees before him. This image provoked him to almost go feral, a sensation he had never experienced in your presence. Shaking off these unfamiliar emotions, he allowed you to tend to his hand, cleaning the remnants of Myles' blood. After discarding the used cloth in his bathroom, you retrieved another, standing up in the process. Straddling him unexpectedly, you caused his breath to hitch in his throat. He placed his hands on your bare skin. It was while you attended to cleaning the blood from his face that he couldn't help but notice, with heightened appreciation, the sheer beauty that radiated from you. Though he had always recognized this allure, there was something indefinable that set you apart in this moment, something that made his heart skip a beat. Perhaps it was the way your focused gaze softened as you meticulously attended to his wounds, or the way your hands moved with grace and gentleness as you wiped away the blood.

In that moment, everything faded into the background, and he realized that he had been taking you for granted all this time. The simple act of tending to his wounds made him recognize the depth and complexity of emotions he felt towards you. It was as if a veil had been lifted, revealing the full extent of his admiration and love for you.

"Why did you do it?" you gently inquired, placing your hands upon his chest.

"It is one thing to cheat, but an entirely different matter to cheat on you. You did not deserve that. I would repeat my actions countless times, even if it meant incurring you being mad or if it caused you to hate me," he confessed, his grip on your hips tightening.

Though he despised the notion of you hating him, he spoke with unwavering sincerity. He would obliterate anyone who dared to harm you.

"Why him, though? I have been in relationships with others in the past and have experienced cheating before, yet you never did that before," Flynn exhaled heavily. "This is different. I was not bothered by your past relationships because you didn't ghost me. However, it killed me to see you with Myles, knowing you cut me off."

"I didn't want to. He made me," you explained, guilt filling your voice.

"I fucking knew it. I knew you would not cut me off like that. It wasn't like you," Flynn remarked.

"Why does it matter whether I cut you off or not? I assumed you would either forget about me or not even notice," you responded.

This behavior was unlike you. Typically, you exuded confidence and never doubted yourself, even with him. Your fiery personality and self-assurance were always present. "Are you joking?" Flynn questioned.

As you glanced down at your legs that were separated by Flynn's legs, Flynn took a deep breath before gently lifting your chin to meet his gaze. "You are unforgettable, firestar. Do you really believe I could forget about you, especially when I keep this hair tie on my wrist? You know me better than that."

"I am unforgettable compared to the girls that jump at you," you added.

Flynn was incredulous at the words that reached his ears. With a disapproving shake of his head. “Shut up,”

Your widened eyes revealed hurt as Flynn gently brushed his hand across your cheek and into your hair, drawing you closer to him. He drew you nearer to him, gently pressed his lips against yours.

As your lips met, time stood still, and everything else faded away. It felt like a dream, but the electricity coursing through his body assured him that it was very much real. Your fingers seamlessly intertwined with his silky hair and tugged on it. In return, he licked your lips with his tongue, seeking dominance over this kiss. Meeting his request without hesitation, your mouth welcomed his entry with an eager embrace. A delightful shiver down his spine as his tongue slid over mine, evoking a pleasurable moan that escaped your lips, savoring his taste that enveloped your senses.

His touch was electric, sending tingles down your spine as you deepened the kiss, lost in the moment with him. Every movement, every breath, was synchronized as you both moved your lips together.

His hands roamed your body, igniting a fire within you that only he could quench. The intensity of the moment was overwhelming, yet you couldn't bring yourself to pull away. His presence consumed you, drawing you deeper into the depths of desire and lust.

As you reached out to unbutton his shirt, Flynn suddenly pulled away from you and grasped your hands to halt your movements. "I'm sorry, I misinterpreted the situation," You expressed, retracting your hands and preparing to move away. However, Flynn firmly held onto your thighs, anchoring you in place.

“I am well aware that you can feel just how fucking bad I want you as my dick is between your legs but I want to make you know that I just don't want to fuck you. I want all of it. I am willing to take this slow," Flynn explained.

Although he wanted so badly to throw you on this bed and have you scream his name, he wanted you to know that it wasn't just for sex.

After a tender kiss, you reassured Flynn of your understanding. "Let's talk about this after we've fucked," You stated as you proceeded to remove Flynn's shirt.

You position yourself on your knees before him. As you ran your hand over his jeans, Flynn responded by rolling his eyes. Taking your time to savor the moment, you began to unbuckle his pants, prompting him to lift his hips to allow you to remove them. Placing your lips upon him through his boxers, you kissed him before exploring further with your tongue, never breaking eye contact.

Flynn found himself unable to tear his gaze away from you, his breath becoming increasingly unsteady as you continued to kiss and lick him through his boxers. Though the temptation to remove the barrier between you two and take him into your mouth was strong, he restrained himself, captivated by the raw desire in your eyes. With his boxers now removed, you revealed him fully, eliciting a skipped beat from Flynn's heart as you smiled at his size. Firmly grasping him, you elicited a gasp as he responded eagerly to your touch. As you licked and explored every inch of him. “Gods,” Flynn uttered.

Despite Flynn's desire to be more assertive, he allowed you to lead this, not wanting to overshadow the experience for you. While he longed to hear your reaction to him making you gag, he restrained himself, saving that intensity for another time.

The sound of your pleasure as you pushed him to the back of your throat was enough to make him go feral. He couldn't resist grabbing a handful of your hair and increasing the intensity, reveling in the beautiful sounds you made.

As he fucked your mouth, he found pleasure in observing his dick disappearing into your mouth, eagerly anticipating the moment when it would be buried deep inside your pussy. With a guttural groan, he reached his peak and released into your mouth, which you continued sucking until he spilled completely down your throat.

Flynn firmly grasped your throat, hoisting you up from the ground. He kissed you while he removed the hair tie that held your hair back, releasing your beautiful hair from its confinement. He absolutely loved your hair and the way it cascaded down your back like a waterfall of silk. He couldn't resist running his fingers through it, feeling the smooth strands slide between his fingertips. As he continued to kiss you, he felt your body relax against his, surrendering to the desire that burned between you two.

With a low growl, he let go of your neck and pushed you onto the bed. "It's not fair that you're still fully clothed while I'm naked," he remarked.

In response, you flashed a mischievous smile. “Rip them off," you suggested wickedly.

Flynn smiled mischievously in return, taking hold of your shirt and tearing it into shreds, scattering the torn fabric across the room. He noted your lack of a bra when he first caught sight of you in the mirror earlier. Your body responded eagerly to his touch, with your nipples eagerly anticipating his attention. However, he decided to give them attention later as he wanted to taste your pussy.

In a swift motion, he replicated his actions on your leggings, tearing them away and discarding them aside. Firmly gripping your thighs, he positioned himself between your legs and lowered himself onto the bed. Beginning at the base, he traced his tongue upwards along you, eliciting a delicious response from you. The sensation of your moans reverberated through him, further fueling his desire. Concentrating on your pleasure, Flynn shifted his focus to your clit, causing you to arch in pleasure.

As you writhed beneath his touch, Flynn maintained his composure, steadying your movements with a firm hand on your waist. Inserting a finger inside you, he initiated a rhythmic motion that elicited a deep moan from your throat. "Just like that," he murmured, his actions conveying a sense of mastery and control.

As he was on the brink of adding another finger, the interruption came in the form of his door being pushed open. Consumed by you, Flynn paid little heed to the person, fully immersed in bringing you please.

"What the fuck is going on here?”

Even Declan's voice failed to divert his attention from your clit. "Oh hey, Dec," you greeted nonchalantly.

Your voice exhibited traces of euphoria akin to the effects of Mirthroot, a reaction that elicited a smile from Flynn, aware that he was the catalyst. "What the fuck is this?" inquired Declan.

"Your best friend is eating me out. Would you, I don't know, get the fuck out?" You requested.

As the door closed behind Declan, Flynn intensified his actions, inserting an additional digit within you and increasing the intensity, skillfully manipulating his fingers to elicit loud moans. "Gods, Flynn," you exclaimed, your hand finding their way to his hair as you held onto it firmly.

As he indulged in licking, sucking, and biting, the sounds of your increasing moans only fueled his passion. He savored each and every one of your desperate breaths, keenly aware of your impending climax. "Let yourself go, baby girl," he whispered against your clit.

The vibrations of Flynn's words against your skin proved to be the final trigger, causing you to reach the peak of ecstasy and release all control as you climaxed on his face.

Flynn lapped up all of it before leaning up and pumped himself a few good times making sure he was hard enough for you before he flipped you on to your stomach and pulled your ass up to the air. He lined himself up to your entrance and pushed himself into you. You both groaned at the stretching he was causing.

Placing his hands on your hips, he began to move slowly, mindful of not causing you discomfort as you adjusted to his size. "Fuck me like you mean it, Trist. You're not going to break me," you urged.

"You’re going to regret that," Flynn replied, withdrawing from you momentarily before thrusting back in with force.

A sharp cry escaped your lips as you welcomed the pain. With a firm grip on your hips, Flynn increased the hardness and depth of his movements, leaving you grasping at the sheets.

He moved with a forcefulness that made him acutely aware of every point of contact, prompting you to match your movements with his. "Do you like how I feel?" you asked, your voice purred.

"Yes, baby. You feel fucking amazing. Even if I desired another cunt, which I do not, my thoughts would still be consumed by you," he confessed.

Upon hearing his words, you swiftly positioned yourself on top of him, reveling in the sensation of him filling you completely. "I want to fucking ride you," you declared.

Flynn smiled approvingly and agreed. He rarely allowed others to take the reins, but for you, he would make an exception.

You began to move vigorously on top of him, emitting sounds that reverberated in his ears. Flynn was completely absorbed in the moment, experiencing a level of satisfaction he had never felt before. His declaration that he desired only you rang true, as he was utterly captivated by your presence.

"Gods!" Flynn groaned as you both reached climax. Your ecstatic reaction echoed throughout the room, with Flynn showing no concern for the presence of Declan and Ruhn. As you collapsed onto his chest, both of you breathing heavily, a silence enveloped the room as you rested. Gradually, your breaths steadied, eventually lulling you to sleep, exhausted from it.

As he listened to your breathing, he thought about everything. He thought about the night that you left with Myles. That part of him that died. That feeling. Then that feeling when he saw you with him a few more times. One of those times, something hit him emotionally and physically. He didn't realize it at the time but as he listened to your breathing, it all made sense. “She’s my mate,” He said out loud.

[wosowrites]

Canadian Wonders (Jessie Fleming x Reader)

Warnings: None

A/N: This is so cute my heart melts for jessie

Prompt: Reader is australian, and has never seen a lot of snow before. So Jessie takes her to her home town to meet her family and have a traditional Canadian winter.

When you’ve lived in the land down under for 20 years, and then move to play for a huge club like Chelsea at 21, a lot of things take adjusting. But somehow, it wasn’t the intense training, or the new people, that was the biggest adjustment. It was the weather. You never went to university, not being a big scholar and being raised in a broken home with little money. Instead, you opted to go pro right away. You went pro in 2020, and was relieved to know you would have another aussie at the club with you. You and Sam Kerr had been playing together since you were 15 and she was 18. Soon enough, you got known as a pretty dynamic duo, arriving to winter practices in huge puffy coats, and covered head to toe. You were both strikers, and Emma loved playing you both at the top. In a bit over two years, you both reached your 100th game for Chelsea, having collected between the both of you, 169 goals and 32 assists.

In the middle of 2020, you met Jessie Fleming.

You both started dating in 2021, and 2 years later, you were still going strong. Jessie finally decided she wanted you to meet her family in person, and see her home town. So, in january of 2023, you hoped on a plane to London, Ontario. And you thought London, England was cold…

You stepped out of the small London, Ontario airport, the freezing cold hitting you right away. "I told you to put a coat on baby," Jessie said, laughing at your shocked face. "I didn’t think it would be this cold!" You said, shivering. "I warned you!" Jessie said, opening her long winter coat. You quickly dropped your bag at your feet and abandoned your suitcase, putting your arms around her and feeling the comfort of her body. Jessie closed the big coat around the both of you, kissing the top of your head.

You were taller than her only by an inch, but in your cold state, you were hunched over to stay warm.

"How quickly is Eylsse gonna get here?" You whined. "Just texted her, she’ll be here in- oh there she is." Jessie said.

You reluctantly left the comfort of your girlfriends body, pulling away and seeing Elysse and Tristan driving up in the family subaru. You saw the pure joy in their eyes, the happiness of seeing their sister. You felt happy for Jessie, happy she had that bond with her siblings, but also sad that yours hadn’t reached out to you in years.

Tristan and Elysse stepped out of the car, Elysse running up to Jessie and jumping in her arms. Tristan seemed more reserved, more like Jessie, so you opted for a simple handshake. "It’s nice to meet you in person, you’re taller than you seem on family facetimes." Tristan says. "Don’t lie to me," you laughed, knowing very well you were not tall. "Hey, Elysse!" You said. She hugged you tightly, smiling at you wildly. "I love your nose piercing, oh my god it looks so good on you! I’ve always wanted one but I don’t know if it would suit me." You say to Elysse. "You should get one! I know a really good guy if you want!" Elysse said, smiling at you. "I’ll think about it. Let’s just please get out of the cold." You said, grabbing both yours and Jessie’s luggage and bringing it to the car.

"Did you not tell your aussie girlfriend to wear a coat in Canada?" Elysse laughed, addressing her sister. "I did! She didn’t listen!" Jessie answered, watching as her girlfriend and brother put the luggage in the trunk. "She’s a gentleman," Elysse said, smiling. "You haven’t seen anything yet."

———

Michaele and John Fleming met you with open arms. Literally. The Fleming’s were warm, and inviting, the house smelled like fresh food and slightly of paint. You had all finished eating supper, a meal cooked to perfection by both Jessie’s parents, and were now sitting in the living room.

"I’m so happy you all managed to get time off work and school." Michaele said, pouring you a cup of coffee. "Me too, it’s really nice here." You said, thanking her with a nod for the warm drink. "You haven’t even hiked yet." Jessie told you. "Hiking? It’s too cold to hike." You said, shocked people went outside willingly in this weather. "Is not. In fact, that’s our first activity."

It was known to everyone that Jessie loved order. So when she told you that she had specific activities planned, you weren’t at all suprised.

"Tomorrow morning, 5:00 am, sunrise hike. Then skating on the mountain, then I want to bring you to a really cute coffee shop and show you my elementary school." Jessie said. "5:00 am!" You said, but we’re ignored. "Don’t forget your appointment! You’re getting a nose ring at 5:00 pm tomorrow." Elysse said.

It was true, the youngest Fleming had convinced you to go for it. Worse case scenario, you didn’t like it and let the hole close.

"How could I forget? Just you and me for that one, Els?" You asked her. "Yeah, mum and I are making supper. We’re only here three days." Jessie said.

A few hours later, you went to bed in Jessie’s childhood bedroom. It was surreal being in that are, seeing the trophies, the blue walls, the medals and framed pictures. "What would 14 year old you say if she knew that 24 year old you was lying in this same bed with her girlfriend?" You asked her as she traced patterns on your stomach. "I think she would pass out."

———

As Jessie had said, the next morning she had woken you up at 5:00 am. The whole thing was a blur. You remembered her literally having to dress you, and her telling you to be quiet as you tip toed down the stairs. She had bundled you up in a warm hat, a big winter coat, gloves and a scarf. Your hood was up the second you were out the door. You had fallen asleep in the car, and by the time you were to the mountains, it was almost 6:30.

"You ready baby?" Jessie said, opening the door for you and laughing at your grunt of an answer. You didn’t stay mad for long though, as you saw the still starry winter night peeking through the pine trees. "Oh, Jess. This is beautiful." You told her.

The both of you started your hike. Jessie had her camera with her and was taking pictures of you, and the world surrounding you the whole time you walked up the mountain. The snow was mangeable, due to the trail having been plowed. By the time you arrived at the top of the mountain, the sun was rising. Jessie pulled out a cover from her bag and put it in the snow. You cuddled up next to her, sipping a mocha Jessie had made.

The sky was painted orange, pink, red, yellow and purple, it was the most beautiful thing you had ever seen. Well, second most beautiful thing. Jessie would always be first. "I’m happy you brought me here." you told her, peering into her eyes. "I’m happy you like it here." She answered. "One day, when we retire from football, I wouldn’t mind having a family with you here." You told her, nervous of her answer.

You didn’t meet her eyes, that is until she used her gloved fingers to lift your chin up. "I want that more than anything." Jessie said, kissing you lovingly.

[anonymousonlyanonymoud]

The Lost de Rolo Chapter Two

Scries and Answers

Previous Chp Next

After that morning's revelations and decisions, Vox Machina began preparing for their next journey.

Grog, Scanlan, Vex, and Trinket had all gone to the shopping district of Emon to stock up on healing potions, weapons, and whatever else they thought they would need before setting off. But what surprised everyone, was when Vax had declined to go with them.

They may tease him about the flirting between himself and Gilmore, but there was a genuine friendship between the rogue and sorcerer.

So, it felt a bit worrying that Vax was not jumping at the chance to see Gilmore and only gave a half-hearted reason to go to the temple.

Vex had eyed her brother, giving him a look that said 'We will talk about this later,'

Vax responded with one of his own that told her, 'I know,' as he trailed after Percy and Pike.

The three of them walked in silence, Pike's armor being the main sound as they made their way toward the Temple.

The rogue hung back at the end of their little train, his feet feeling like lead as they drew closer to the temple.

He was happy that Percy would get answers for his sister, Vax truly was. What worried the half-elf was the question he needed to ask, and the answer he may receive.

When they entered the temple, there were the usual groups of worshippers praying to Sarenrae and speaking with the clerics mingling around.

Pike weaved her way through the worshippers, stopping before the familiar elderly man dressed in the robes of Sarenrae and thinning hair on the top of his head,

"Father Tristan,"

"Pike Trickfoot. We welcome you and your friends here," The man said while giving the gnome a slight nod,

"Thank you, Father. We need your assistance on a private matter,"

Father Tristan looked between Pike and the two behind her, his eyes squinting a bit at Vax and Percy before nodding and leading them away from the main hall of the temple.

When they were separated from the rest of the groups, Father Tristan asked what they needed,

"I'm sure you've heard of the latest escapade that we went on," Percy said to which the cleric nodded,

"Yes. The tale has spread about your victory against those unholy creatures that subsequently freed our Sovereign and an entire city from their control," He said, "Many have come to pray for those recently freed. For the Everlight to assist Lady Cassandra as she leads your people through the rebuilding of Whitestone, My Lord,"

At first glance, it would seem like hearing himself being referred to as 'Lord' had little effect on Percy. But both Pike and Vax saw him make a small, jerking flinch that went unnoticed by those around them.

Percy managed to clear his throat,

"I... thank you, Father. I will be sure to inform my sister of the support we have here with the Everlight's followers," He straightened his shoulders and began their business as to why they had come.

The older Cleric listened to why they were seeking his help, a frown forming as Percy came to the end of their tale,

"We are aware that the source we got the information from is possibly the most unreliable out there," Vax said, 

"That is true," Replied the Cleric, "Though, I can understand the need for truth in this matter,"

Father Tristan went silent for a long moment, deep in visible thought as he pondered the situation before saying, "I shall do what I can to assist you, My Lord. But, am I correct in assuming you have nothing that connects to your sister? No objects or clothing that would have belonged to her?"

Percy shook his head, "No. Everything that belonged to my family was destroyed years ago,"

"I see," Father Tristan hummed, "That will make scrying difficult,"

"But not impossible?" Questioned Pike, a hopeful tone lighting her voice,

"No. Not impossible," He replied.

Father Tristan continued his conversation with Pike and Percy, but Vax had distanced himself from the trio. 

The rogue found himself standing before the main altar of Sarenrae and stared up at the image of the Everlight. 

He was never one for prayer, especially since he and Vex'ahlia had returned to Byroden and were told that their mother had been killed. But recently... Vax has been unsure as to where to turn for answers.

Ever since the feast, since Sylas Briarwood had used him as a blood bag, Vax had been having...

Dreams? Visions?

It always happened when he was asleep, but they never felt like dreams.

Vax, when he went to sleep, would fall. However, it wasn't like falling from a cliff. It was more like... Sinking into a pit of honey.

But instead of honey, it was soft feathers that gently lowered him toward into a dark, endless void that was filled with shadows. Shadows that were illuminated by streaks of gold that flew illuminated the darkness.

There would be a gold streak circling around him, weaving up from the ground before becoming level with his chest and branching out in two directions.

The first found its way around a group of people Vax recognized easily as Vox Machina, illuminating their faces with its gold light while a small section branched off to circle tightly around Vex'ahlia.

Vax would always try to walk towards his friends, but the second streak would always pull him back, tugging him further into the darkness until his friends, his family, were no more than a small, golden light in the distance.

He would then be faced with who was on the other end, but could never make out who it was.

This figure would be clouded in a black energy with an electric purple hue that reminded Vax of Delilah Briarwoods' magic. 

Vax would stare at the figure, unable to make out anything other than emerald green eyes that peered at the half-elf through the magic surrounding them. 

The rogue would try to catch a glimpse of the face behind the haze, but his concentration would be broken by the croaking call of ravens as a pale, masked face loomed over the both of them.

Vax would jolt awake in a cold sweat after meeting the dark holes of the mask were eyes were supposed to reside.

He'd been unable to make sense of, whatever these things were. But, Vax needed to be sure this was nothing in relation to the Briarwoods. 

Delilah Briarwoods had been a damned necromancer, it didn't seem beyond the realm of reason for her to be able to reach out to the living. And if she were trying to make some kind of connection with the living world through Vax, the half-elf needed to find out how to severe it before she succeeded,

"Hey, Stringbean?" Vax tore his gaze off of the Everlights image and looked down at Pike who returned his gaze with worry, "You okay?"

He glanced back up at the altar before responding,

"Yeah, Pickle, I'm okay. Just thinking things over,"

His friend looked unconvinced, but temporarily dropped the subject and pointed to where Father Tristan and Percy stood,

"If you're sure. We're ready to start,"

The room Father Tristan led them to was dimly lit with candles as a bowl of what Vax assumed was Holy Water sat on a small table.

The older Cleric stood at one side of the table while the members of Vox Machina stood at the other,

"This may take a moment," He murmured while focusing on the water, "And as I said before, Lord de Rolo, this may not work,"

"I understand," 

Vax could see Percy's fists clench at his sides.

Father Tristan began speaking down toward the Holy Water, casting a spell that made it glow as the surface shimmered.

There was a blurred image shown that began to fade as soon as it appeared, prompting the Cleric to renew his spell with vigor. His eyes scrunched in concentration as Percy grasped the edges of the table with shaking hands.

Pike rested her hand against Percy's, and the Lord glanced down at her. The gnome offered an encouraging smile then turned toward the water, prompting Percy to the same as Vax came to stand beside them.

The water's surface was still blurred, but it slowly began to clear after a few excruciating minutes to show them the image of a young woman with striking white hair that was pulled back into a loose braid,

"Is that her, Percy?"

Percy didn't answer Pike as his gaze was fixated on the image before them.

Vax stared at the image from over his friend's shoulder, studying what was shown in the water.

The woman was walking down a crowded street that looked familiar to Vax.

He'd walked that street before, looking for the people who were after his sister. 

Vax had followed a dwarf with a staff made of tongues into that building.

Vax had walked down that street, away from that building with a threat looming over his head, while the new brand on his back burned under his cloak. 

The group watched the image in the water as the woman, whom Vax assumed was Percy's sister, entered a tavern that the rogue recognized.

But as Ciara stepped inside, the image flickered and blurred before fading completely, showing only their reflections in the water,

"No! No!" Percy's head shot up and his eyes landed on Father Tristan, "Bring it back! The image! That was her! Bring it back!"

The Cleric shook his head with a weary sigh, "There is something blocking my sight, My Lord. I'm afraid that I am unable to-"

"Try! Please just-"

"Percy!" Pike was now between Percy and the table. The gnome grasped his hands tightly as she said, 

"Percy, for an image to be disrupted like that- Something had to have disrupted it,"

"But we didn't see anything, Pike!" He exclaimed, "We only saw her walk into a damned building! And we don't even know what or where that is!"

"I know where that is," Everyone turned toward Vax who had slunk back into the shadows of the room, "I know that place,"

Percy reached Vax in two steps and grasped the rogue's arms, "Where is she, Vax?"

The half-elf remained silent for a long time before carefully peeling Percy's fingers from his arms,

"Westruun,"

"Westruun? Are you sure?" Pike questioned, "I don't recognize where-"

"Pike," The serious tone of his voice had her cutting off, "I know that area. It's in Westruun,"

Percy stepped away from Vax, his shoulders dropping in relief, "Westruun is only a day's journey from here. Ciara is closer than I could have ever imagined,"

"There is a darkness about her, My Lord. Even through the scrying I could see it," Father Tristan added, "I'm unable to discern what caused it, but don't imagine your sister has had a good life,"

The members of Vox Machina all tensed as each of them remembered a smoking demon made of shadows that had made itself known underneath the Castle of Whitestone.

A harsh sigh left Percy as he began pacing the room while violently tugging at his hair,

"But she is alive! And we know where she is!" He whipped his gaze toward the older cleric, "And right now, that's all that matters to me!"

With those last words, Percy stormed out of the room, the door slamming against the wall as he left.

Pike sighed while gently clasping her symbol of Sarenrae before apologizing to Father Tristan,

"We do appreciate the help, Father, truly," The Cleric waved his hand in a slight dismissal,

"I can understand his frustration, Pike Trickfoot. Though I do not appreciate it being thrown at me,"

Pike apologized a second time and made to leave the room, but stopped when she saw that Vax hadn't moved,

"You go on a head, Pickle," He said, flashing her a tight smile, "I'll catch up,"

Worry was still visible on her face as she nodded and exited, leaving Vax and Father Tristan.

The Cleric tilted his head, "Is there more assistance required of me?"

Vax sighed, pushing off of the wall to stand more in the center of the room,

"Yes. I am, worried that the Briarwoods have, left some kind of mark, or, connection to me," He said, then began explaining the dreams, or visions, he'd been having.

Father Tristan listened carefully to what Vax told him and thought for a long while before agreeing to check for any dark arcane energy that maybe clinging to him.

He placed his hands on either side of Vax's head and murmured a few words as the symbol around his neck began to glow. 

A divine energy began to pulse through Vax and he felt a warmth fall over him. It wasn't invasive like Sylas' charms had been, but it was more like a friend welcoming him home, a secure embrace that made him feel safe. But, despite the warm feeling, it still felt uncomfortable having someone else in his head so soon after the Briarwoods.

It lasted about five minutes, then Father Tristan let his hands fall to his side as Vax released a breath he had been unconsciously holding.

He blinked a few times and looked at the Cleric, fearing the worst as Tristan began to speak,

"I can say with absolute certainty that there is no dark magic left by those unholy creatures," The weight on Vax's shoulders immediately lifted.

But it came back crashing down on him with Father Tristan's next words,

"There is, however, someone watching you," Vax stiffened, "But there is no darkness within this gaze. I cannot say who, but there gaze is, divine, in nature,"

Feeling more confused and uneasy than before, Vax questioned,

"Why would something like that be watching me?"

"I cannot answer that, Vax'ildan. I have a feeling, that the answer will be one you must decipher for yourself,"

---

The small tavern was quiet when Ciara de Rolo entered. But what surprised her was the fact that it was empty. Even though it was about midday, there would be some signs of life roaming about.

But at first glance, it seemed like Ciara was the only one there.

However, there was a man sitting in a darkened corner, the red glass of his monocle glinting at her through the low light,

"You were almost late," He tsked, "You know how dangerous it can be, to be late,"

Ciara said nothing as Spireling Shenn stood and began making his way toward her.

The man towered over Ciara as he stepped directly before her,

"Oh, why so quiet? I do love our chats,"

She dared not move and carefully forced out,

"You called me. That means you have a job,"

Shenn's face twisted into a smile, "Down to business as usual, Little Bird. Very well, very well,"

The Spireling straightened up and motioned for her toward the table,

"Sit. Have a drink and we'll discuss what I need from you,"

Ciara pursed her lips, closed her eyes, counted to ten, then sat across from the Spireling and braced herself for the long, drawn out meeting she would be forced to sit through.

[doomspaniels]

Fabulous Faces Friday: PLEASE THROW THE BAAAAAALL

[fromthemouthofkings]

Once Again, the Future

King stands in the convenience store deli aisle, frowning over two different sandwiches. They’re both good sandwiches. He continues to frown. Above him the fluorescent lights flicker, and the refrigerated cases give a quiet hum. In beat-up sneakers and a hoodie pulled down low over his eyes, and shooting furtive glances at the girl picking through the apple crate, he doesn’t exactly look the part. 

King woke up the night after a police officer shot his classmate point-blank in the back while the kid was running away. A wizard came to him in his dreams and told him that he had to do something about it. Yeah, seriously. (The man had a long, white beard and was wearing a star-patterned blue robe. That’s how he knew he was a wizard.)

He said, “Like what?” and the wizard said, “It’s almost time. Assemble the Round Table. Wake up.”

Before that, he was just Art. Now, he remembers bits and pieces of another life, an impossible life, memories that absolutely shouldn’t exist. He thinks he might be going crazy. Except that he recognizes them, the people from his dreams. His brother, Kay. His half-sister, Morgan. Gavin. Lance. And they seem to recognize him, too. Each time, he holds out a hand to them, and they take it, blinking, like his touch has reawakened something inside them.

They’ve been slowly filtering into his life again. (He recognizes them. He always recognizes them, even though they look different now. Their faces have changed, but the eyes are always the same.) 

Each time, he thinks about not doing it. About just turning around and walking out. Going it alone. He could leave his friends and family to live their ordinary lives in peace. But he doesn’t.

He’s gathered most of the Round Table now. He can see the ring of it, in his mind’s eye. Perce and Tristan, Lottie, Bev, Gareth, Pell, and Elaine. There are just a handful of empty spaces left. 

It’s almost time. He doesn’t need a wizard to tell him that. He can feel it. Whatever comes next—it’s about to begin.

The girl beside the apple crate is talking on her cellphone now. Her fluffy black hair piles softly over her shoulders. King lingers there, watching her. 

“Are you planning to buy that?”

Oh, great. He’s been standing here too long, and now the shopkeeper thinks he’s trying to steal something.

Lance gets up in the shopkeeper’s face. He always was Arthur’s most loyal defender. “He’s taking his time to think about it. What’s wrong? You got a problem?”

King pulls him back. “It’s fine. I’m getting this one.” Blindly he chooses the Italian sub and brings it up to the counter to pay.

Lance was the first to wake up. An accident. King saw his familiar face, that morning after, and booked it across a parking lot, a wire fence, and two busy streets to ask him what the fuck was going on.

Lance was playing basketball with some of his friends. He was the shortest among them, with gym shorts and a shaved head and shiny new Adidas. He got up in King’s face then, too, asking “Dude, what the fuck is your problem?” 

“Who are you?” King demanded, because he didn’t know, then, that the others wouldn’t remember him until he touched them. 

“Who the fuck are you?” Lance had countered. 

Acting on instinct, King grabbed his scrawny shoulders, and Lance’s face had gone slack with realization. He dropped to his knees right there in the middle of the basketball court. 

King doesn’t know if he’s ever done this before. He thinks he might have. Once, maybe twice, maybe dozens of times before. 

King pays for his sandwich, and he and Lance head out. As he’s pushing open the door—that’s when he sees it, glittering in the sun. The sword is sunk into the sidewalk, with the hilt sticking straight up out of the concrete. 

He doubles back. 

The girl is checking out behind him. As he approaches, she’s digging in her purse for change. 

The shopkeeper gives him a dirty look, but he ignores it. 

“Hey.”

She looks between him and Lance, a confused half-smile on her face. “Do I know you?”

“Not yet.” He holds out his hand. “I'm Arthur King.” 

“Uh, hi.” She giggles. “I’m Gwen.” 

He’d almost forgotten how young she used to be before she came to Camelot, how young they all used to be (he feels like he has lived a hundred lifetimes since then). She’s just an ordinary girl, for this brief moment, worried about boys and grades and getting into college and her mother.

Then she takes his hand, and she is queen.

[annimator]

SO. THAT NEW EPISODE HUH

(blah blah blah, reaction’s under the cut. Y’know this already)

• THE FUCK IS THAT THUMBNAIL. THIS IS LIKE THE 5TH DC THUMBNAIL TO HAVE TWO GUYS KISSING EACH OTHER IF YA INCLUDE THE TOMJAKE SPINOFF

• OFC THE SCENE WHERE DEREK’S APPLAUDS TREVOR DURING THE CHALLENGE DEMO PLAYS OVER HIM TALKING ABOUT LAST EPISODE’S CHALLENGE

• STOP REMINDING ME THAT ALESSIO’S FUCKING GONE

• WAIT DON’T PLAY THE INTRO, HE’S LITERALLY THE FIRST CONTESTANT WE SEE IN IT

• “Look poker’s very skilled based, but I’m realizing i need to play with more poignancy” Bro idk what the actual fuck you do to play poker, so I can see where he’s probably coming from

• Idk if Lynda sounds like she’s lying or not, but I immediately got blindsided over Ted mentioning his wife AND son. Fucking plot twist right there lmao

• There’s smth pretty sweet about Ted & Lynda bonding about their kids going through puberty lmao

• Uh oh new alliance droppped

• GET HER ASS ANASTASIA. PICK ON HER BITCHASS FOR DECIDING TO ELIMINATE ALESSIO

• “Ted told me Alessio was bringing the boys together. He was a quiet mastermind.” BULLSHIT

• MF HE WAS ONLY HERE TO GET ARTISTIC ENLIGHTENMENT. KEEP MY KIN’S NAME OUT YOUR FUCKING MOUTH

• Isabel’s being sillyyyy- WAIT LOGAN’S STARING AT ONE OF ALESSIO’S PAINTINGS WITH A SAD FACE. YOU CAN’T MAKE THIS SHIT UP

• “Got a thing for fine-wine italians.” LMAO NATALIA

• AWWW LOGAN’S DEFENDING ALESSIO

• “Logan’s a sweet kid” Damn right

• WAIT THEY ACTUALLY SAID THE WORD. NATALIA MENTIONED HER BEING TRANS STRAIGHT UP HELL YEA

• Caught in 4K lol

• Oooooo Amelie’s getting suspicions

• Ofc Jade tells Spencer about her idol hint. Hmmmm, she doesn’t mention how she ACTUALLY got it tho…

• What kind of distraction does Jade want Spence to make?

• Benji’s eepy

• “It’s for the game” I KNOW WHERE THIS IS FUCKING GOINGGGGGGG

• NO WAY HE’S TRYING TO FLIRT WITH HIM

• Bro’s rizz is worse than a certain bald cubito I know

• Pretty nice Diencer crumbs tho. I saw someone call them “studyguide” & I think that’s an AMAZING ship name. I’m using that for them from here on out >:D

• YEA SHE GOT THE IDOL!

• Aw her backstory ;-;

• She got picked on for her skin condition, but her moms were still supportive of her :’D

• YEA JADE YOU GO GIRL. FOLLOW YOUR DREAMS

• Group yoga :D

• YEA VIBE TRIBE TRIO BONDING. I LOVE THEM

• Love me some Zaivy crumbs. There’s gotta be a cool ship name out there that mixes culinary & performing arts together

• “I have Spencer on my radar. Him and Diego are getting tight” YEA I CAN SEE WHERE YOU’RE COMING FROM IVY >:3

• HANNAH ILY. But yea Diego’s kinda right, y’all better not get cocky

• “Haha, cock” I felt this with my soul. Especially everyone getting weirded by Benji saying this. IT’S THE GIVING HEAD THING FROM EP 1 ALL OVER AGAIN

• “Running into traffic would be safer than having you as a lawyer.” HOLY SHIT SHE FUCKING KILLED YOU DUDE

• BENJI’S A FUCKING DORK. I LOVE HIM

• “I want to win to win this show. So I can quit law, and start a new life. Maybe figure out actual goals for myself.” BRO I’M ROOTING FOR SO MANY PEOPLE IN THIS SHOW WTF. LIKE AT FIRST, I WAS JUST ROOTING FOR TRISTAN & HANNAH BECAUSE I COULD SEE A PART OF MYSELF IN THEM AS A NON-BINARY FILIPINO-CANADIAN, BUT BASICALLY EVERYONE IS SO INTRIGUING IN A WAY. AND THIS INCLUDES ALESSIO

• Why was everyone expecting Alessio getting the boot- WAIT DON’T SAY THAT IN FRONT OF LOGAN HE’S GETTING SAD

• “M’lady.” DEREK HELPING UP TREVOR ONTO THE TRAIN CART???? AND THEN THEY HAVE FUCKING SPARKLES IN THEIR EYES??? I NEED TO BE SEDATED

• Ooo truth or dare challenge involving the contestants’ fears? Does that mean Logan has some internalized homophobia considering the thumbnail?

• Oh damn, Emily looks like she’ll have fun giving out the truths & dares

• Why would Amelie be up in arms about reading- oh wait there’s bad reviews on that paper, that makes sense

• “Marissa! Answer this; rank your team from most valuable to least” Lemme guess, Anastasia’s the most valuable on her list

• ANASTASIA ENCOURAGING HER TO DO SO IS PROVING MY POINT

• Ooooo they peeking :> Tristan’s face look rlly cute :D

• Yeah I can see why her team’s laughing at the insults from her bad reviews

• Marissa opting out of ranking her teammates honestly makes sense when she wants her team to be unified in some kind of way

• Lynda shut the fuck up.

• SEE NATALIA AGREES WITH ME- and ofc Ted’s siding with Lynda after the convo we saw between them

• YEA MORE ANARISSA CRUMBS >:D

• “I believe in english you refer to that as a… meatrider!” LMAOOOOO YEA

• Oh nice they’re besties now!

• wait this reminds me of something…

• TWO STARS? HANNAH DESERVES 5 WHAT ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT

• “Describe the worst dish you ever made” Zaid it can’t be that bad bro, what’s with the shocked face

• “Bro, you’re like… you’re like Gordon Ramsay! Who cares if ya made an undercooked steak once, y’know? C’mon just tell her!” YEA TRISTAN! >:D

• Oh yeah, it can be that bad. Who the fuck cooks KOALA

• DIEGO’S HOLDING ONTO SPENCER

• Also, plz don’t puke again bro

• Oh so it was for money, and he didn’t know he was gonna cook that. AIght makes sense

• “Tell that to PETA” LMAOOOOO

• DIEGO’S STILL HOLDING ONTO SPECNER WHILE THEY’RE LEAVING THE TRAIN CART

• Richard, you only have two strands of hair on your head, it’ll be fineeee

• See? He accepted it- wait nvm

• BRO WE CANNOT TELL IF YA SHAVED YOUR HEAD WITH YOUR HAT ON. RELAX

• Oh noooo, Ivy had to eat a worm. At least Zaid’s there to comfort her

• It’s just a cold bath, why’s Ted scared of that- anddd he’s uhh… is he dead

• LOGAN’S FIREMAN CARRYING HIS BODY LMAO

• Ngl I used to be scared of dogs when I was a toddler I can see where Lynda’s coming from

• WAIT BENJI’S JOTARO COSPLAY LOOKS AWESOME. WHY IS EVERYONE LAUGHING AT HIM OVER THAT

• Aw, Tristan’s there to comfort Benji :D

• I feel like I could solve the math question Jade got. Proud that she got it right! :D

• NAT HAS TO DO PUSHUPS OVER A BUNCH OF FUCKING MOUSE TRAPS?!

• Aw, Isabel’s praying for her :D

• “It’s just one question. How hard can it be.” I can see Apollo’s gift of prophecy hitting her like a dodgeball

• told ya. Then again, I am kinda intrigued about how Isabel converted to catholicism after she mentioned her parents weren’t catholic

• YOU GOT THIS TRISTAN!

• “I’m feeling left out. Ted got an ice bath, and Benji got to show off some dope cosplays! Where’s my moment in the spotlight, ya know?” I LOVE HOW TRISTAN’S ANIMATION LOOKS SO BOUNCY DURING THIS. THEY LOOK SO CONFIDENT & HAPPY

• “Sorry to interrupt!” I JUST WANNA SEE TRISTAN MAN WTF

• Also fun fact, apparently the guy encouraging you to support ONC is actually Connor’s VA! Small world, huh?

• Either way, please go support Disventure Camp, and ONC at large. This whole Toon Boom thing really hit them hard, but any kind of support will help them out!

• Tristan has to punch someone in the face? What’s wrong with that?

• Oh yeah that’s right, Tristan’s here for a good time and thinks being friends with others’ll help them get further in the game. I still like going back to their audition tape from time to time :>

• “Uh… how hard?” “Strong enough to hurt! Weak enough to not cause a lawsuit.” LMAOOOOOO

• Zaid volunteers as tribute

• Makes sense since they were upset about the koala taco thing

• Ivy cheering Tristan to deck Zaid in the face reminds me on this one “YES SONIC! SPLIT IT WIDE OPEN!” comment I saw in a Sonic Frontiers vid. The vid was basically just the song that played when you fought the Knight boss (dope song btw, It’s called “Find Your Flame”)

• OH DAMN, BRO’S IN A FIGHTING STANCE & EVERYTHING- they missed Zaid’s face and punched his chest instead

• Part of me isn’t surprised considering how their fight with Richard went last episode

• “Pretend I’m your worst enemy.” “I ain’t got one of those!” Mood

• I didn’t know why Tristan got upset over Zaid calling them Marilyn Manson, but one google search later, and yeah I can see why Tristan decked him in the face

• Tristan’s so sweet i love them :D They immediately apologized to Zaid after punching him

• TRISTAN BACKSTORY HELL YEA

• “The world keeps spinning regardless if you’re frowning or smiling, so I guess I choose to keep smiling.” PRECH IT TRISTAN ILY. WE HAVE THE EXACT SAME MINDSET

• Wait we don’t hear Isabel’s entire backstory? Just the end of it? damnit >:|

• NAH DIEGO HAS TO FIGHT A CHICKEN- wait was that the fucking minecraft chicken sound effect

• “Go! Diego, go!” that has to be an intentional reference

• AW SPENCER’S NONVERBALLY CHEERING FOR HIM :D

• DAMN HE’S GETTING CLOCKED BY THAT CHICKEN

• Richard stop saying that “it’s just hair” when you’re bitchass was sobbing over losing two fucking strands from your head

• Ngl Anastasia’s design is really growing on me. No wonder Marissa called her pretty :>

• Also her whole “Men only see me for my looks” thing is not helping her beat the lesbian allegations

• Oh shit, why’s Spencer afraid to talk about his previous relationship. WHY’S HE LYING????????

• BRO DIEGO COMFORTING AND TELLING HIM TO HOLD ONTO HIM HAS GOTTA BE A PARALLEL TO DIEGO HOLDING ONTO SPENCER DURING EPISODE 1’S ROLLER COASTER CHALLENGE

• “Your dare is… to kiss a model we brought backstage.” Oh…. OH

• “Helloooo gorgeous- A DUDE! THAT’S A DUDE!” Is this internalized homophobia? (plz picture the “is that a pigeon” meme while ur reading this. I might look kinda rude-)

• “Just picture he’s Alessio!” LMAOOOOOO

• Oh damn he’s enjoying that- BITCH THE FOOTPOP??

• Blue team walking into a Trevek shoulder grasp lmao

• “This kiss was fine I guess…” I KNOW WHAT YOU ARE

• Oh I am DREADING this elimination. EVERYONE IN IT IS LIKEABLE AND/OR INTRIGUING. ESPECIALLY TRISTAN & HANNAH

• “Hannah’s been really helpful with mending bridges. It’s… not an awful idea listening to her.” DAMN RIGHT! >:D

• Yeah Jade’s suspicious about Amelie.

• Oh damn, trios & groups are being set in stone in red team; there’s Diego, Jade, & Spencer, the vibe tribe, and Hannah, Amelie, & Benji by the looks of it

• DIEGO CALLED HIM “SPENCE”. THEY’RE ON A NICKNAME BASIS

• SHOULDER GRASP. WE GOT ANOTHER STUDYGUIDE SHOULDER GRASP

• Oh shit we got some TENSION

• Hannah listening in on Tristan wanting to vote out Amelie. Call that tristannah crumbs (I’m getting delusional atp)

• SPENCER OR AMELIE MIGHT GET OUT?! WTF I LIKE BOTH OF THEM

• At least it’s not Benji ig. HE SURVIVES TO LIVE ANOTHER DAY! WHO CHEERED

• “Why was I not consulted by Spencer? Am I that lame?” Bro did you forget what happened during the challenge. he was LAUGHING at your cosplays

• Aw, Hannah’s upset ;-; but her putting her head in her hands reminds me of that shinji chair meme lmao

• HANNAH TALKED TO TRISTAN OFF-SCREEN LET’S GOOOOO

• Oh shit, the votes are in vibe tribe’s hands

• Trevek’s rubbing off of each other. I LOVE IT

• Tristan pondering their vote by tapping the pen on their head honestly feels in character

• Oh god, I think I know where this is going…

• BENJI GOT DISTRACTED BY A FLY AGAIN LMAO

• …

• I mean… they probably want to continue the studyguide plotline, and Amelie did paint a target on her back by being a dick. So… yeah, I’m not that surprised over her elimination

• this is an actually heartfelt goodbye- WAIT TREVEK’S JUST LOOKING AT HER WITH BLANK ASS EXPRESSIONS LMAO

• “Thank you all… for being good teammates. I know I was harsh with some of you, but… that was only because I wanted us to win. Hope it’s not personal.” ONC’S FUCKING ME UP TWO ELIMINATIONS IN A ROW. I DIDN’T ASK FOR SEVERE EMOTIONAL PAIN

• AW HANNAH WENT IN TO HUG HER

• Oh shit, she left with a sad look on her face. That honestly hits different when ya remember that Alessio left with a smile

• So yeah, all in all, pretty great episode! Shipping crumbs were great as always (especially for studyguide :>), it’s nice to see Logan… well… y’know, and NOW I’M SAD OVER TWO ELIMINATIONS-

[honeyynymphh]

| The Mark of the Beast |

Cardinal Copia x Fem!Reader rating: E chapter word count: 1.6k chapter 2 of 2 tags/warnings: dom copia, he's a dickhead, fingering, oral sex chapter one

An imposter has apparently been hiding in the abbey, and there is only one way to prove you're part of the congregation. And that is to submit yourself to an examination to find Lucifer's mark upon your body.

read on ao3

I watched him sweep out of the office without another glance in my direction. I closed my eyes and sighed. I couldn’t sit here all night. Quickly I put my clothes back and on shaky legs left his office. I didn’t feel particularly hungry and so I just wandered over to the other side of the abbey to the dormitories. When I pushed through the door, Sister Rosaline was there lounging on her bed and reading some trashy magazine.

“So you’re not an imposter then,” she said, flicking a page as I walked in.

I scowled at her. I was not in the mood.

“No,” I snapped.

Rosaline tossed the magazine on the bed and sat up.

“No need to get your panties in a twist!” she said. “Where was it? Your mark.”

“On my…thigh,” I said, trying to keep calm. I was not telling her where it was exactly. “It was mortifying.”

She shrugged. “It’s just Imperator.”

“It wasn’t,” I said, sitting down on my bed and dropping my face into my hands.

“Huh?”

I scowled at her again. “She was called out! It was the Cardinal.”

“Copia?” asked Rosaline.

“Yes.”

“Ugh, he’s weird,” she said. “Oh well, you probably gave him the highlight of the week.” Rosaline snorted. “Heaven, probably the highlight of his year seeing a pretty girl in her underwear.”

I just made a non-committal noise. I wanted to tell her, but I also didn’t want to breathe a word. He hadn’t done anything, not really. How could I even admit to how easily he had worked me up? Rosaline would probably laugh at me.

“Brother Tristan reckons he used to be a eunuch,” continued Rosaline with another laugh, “and that’s why he doesn’t attend any of the orgies or accept anyone’s invitation.”

“I highly doubt it, Rosaline,” I said.

Maybe I should have just gone to dinner instead of coming here. I didn’t know what to do, I still felt on edge and Rosaline was still talking about Copia.

“Maybe his dick’s just really tiny,” she was saying. “Would explain his foul personality.” She sat there thoughtfully. “I did try to fuck him once, I thought it’d be funny. He told me to fuck off.”

I shrugged. I wasn’t really listening to her. I kept thinking about his mouth on my thigh and wondering what he would have done if I had been bold enough to move forward. Or if I had grabbed his head and brought his face fully against myself. Surely he would have said something cutting and rude to me as he did to Rosaline. But I couldn't stop myself from thinking about it, I shifted awkwardly on the bed.

“Shame it wasn’t Papa Terzo though,” said Rosaline with a dreamy sigh. “I was wearing my best lingerie today. Sister said it was unnecessarily pink and frilly. Tristan said Copia was so rude about his fucking boxershorts.” She laughed. “Though I would have made fun of Tristan for wearing Pokemon boxers too. Did he make fun of yours?”

“Oh, umm no?,” I muttered coming back to myself. “Did…did Tristan say anything about his mark being checked if it was real? Did Sister check yours?”

“With the unholy water?” asked Rosaline, grabbing her magazine back off the bed. “Yeah. It’s not like she was going to perform osculum obscenum.” She let out a short laugh as she flipped the magazine back open. “And Copia is certainly not going to—imagine!”

It was with a sort of sinking feeling in my stomach that I asked, “what is that?”

“Kiss of the Obscene,” said Rosaline with a wave of her hand. “You have to kiss the mark with obscene intent. It’s very old-fashioned. Not very modern says Sister.” Rosaline sighed dreamily. “I wouldn’t say no if it was Papa doing it though.”

I hummed distractedly in agreement, getting off my bed and wringing my hands together. Why had he done that? The bastard! Was it because I was new and wouldn’t know any better? I could understand why nobody liked him much, he was infuriating. Unholy water! He hadn't needed to touch me!

I barely heard Rosaline asking me where I was going as I stormed out of our room. The nerve of that man to do such a thing! I had been so nervous and he had done nothing to make me feel comfortable—he had gone out of his way to make me feel the opposite! Dinner must have ended as I passed a few siblings heading back to their rooms but mostly I hurried through the halls unheeded.

When I found myself standing at his office door, the righteous anger had somewhat faded away. What was I going to say? I should have thought about it more.

“Either come in or leave,” came his voice from the other side of the door.

Sucking in a breath, I entered and tried to shut the door with a bang. But it must have had some mechanic that made it close with a gentle click which just angered me even more. The Cardinal was standing at a bookshelf with a small book in hand. He snapped it closed when he saw me.

“Problem, Sister?” he said, a devious little smile tugging at the corner of his lips

“What you did to me was perverse!” I said hotly.

He moved towards me then until he was only about a foot away and I resisted the urge to take a step back. I was not going to let him intimidate me.

“Are you upset because I didn’t flick you with unholy water like everyone else,” he asked, “or because I didn’t flick my tongue over that needy cunt of yours?”

My whole body flushed and I dropped my gaze. So much for my defences. I shook my head and glared back up at him.

“Well?” he said.

“You deliberately made me uncomfortable,” I managed to say.

“Answer the question, dolce.”

“You did it on purpose!” I did not sound very controlled. But it was hard to remain calm with that smirking face looming in front of me.

“I did.” He moved even closer. “I didn’t know where your mark would be though, that was a delightful discovery. And how fun it was to watch you squirm.”

I couldn’t help but take another step back. I didn’t expect him to admit to it! My back hit the closed door with a thump. He had such a smug look on his face that it just irritated me even further.

“You’re perverse!”

He laughed. “Yes, you said that. And you’re only saying that because I didn’t touch you where you wanted me to.” He moved so close to me that I felt the edge of his cassock brush against me. “Tell me, Sister, is that pussy still wet?”

It was. I suddenly couldn’t open my mouth though, I was feeling too overwhelmed by him and every word indignant word I had wanted to say had faltered.

“Lift up your habit,” he commanded.

I blinked at him in surprise but my hands were already moving of their own accord, gripping the fabric and lifting it up as he dropped to his knees. My chest was pounding and my breath faltered when I felt his hands grip the side of my panties and pull them down to my ankles.

“Well, Sister, clearly I was wrong,” he said smoothly and I felt his hot breath against my thigh, making me shiver. A firm hand gripped my thigh. “You are definitely no pious little princess, eh?”

Like a snake he moved forward fast and licked along the inside of my thigh, tongue swiping across my mark again and making it burn. I couldn’t help but moan at the hot burst of it as it ignited every nerve in my body. It quickly turned into a string of whimpers when I felt his tongue flicking against my folds.

My hands flew out to grip his head, fingers finally getting to touch his hair. It was soft but I was barely paying attention, that nose of his was pressed against my swollen clit and he was tasting me like a starving man. The feel of his moustache tickled and it made my toes curl in my shoes. When I felt him slide a gloved finger inside me I nearly lost my balance, but his other hand held me tightly by my hip. Another finger joined the first and was stretching me as I panted above him. His fingers pumped out of my soaked cunt while his mouth latched onto my clit. Arousal was building within me and I had been so on edge that I was already so close. My fingers were tugging at his hair and there was no stopping me from grinding against his fingers and mouth.

I whined when his mouth left my clit but he was merely moving to suck on my mark again. The intense burn made me cry out but it only made the pleasure more intense. I could already feel my legs starting to buckle as the tension began to tighten and my walls were already starting to flutter around his fingers. Too quickly I was already over the edge, pleasure rolling over my body as I came hard. I could feel the sweat on my back and the way my habit was clinging to it in uncomfortable clumps but I didn’t care.

Looking down at him in a pleasured daze I could see his mouth was slick with my come, the paint smudged across his face as he smirked up at me. My breathing was still coming out in ragged breaths but I managed to slow it down enough to speak.

“Are you going to show me your mark, Cardinal?”

The man stood and I watched as he slowly removed the pellegrina before unbuttoning the many buttons of his cassock.

“Are you going to flick me with unholy water, dolce?” he asked

I shook my head. “I think you may be right and the old ways are better, Cardinal.”

He locked the door.

[unfriendlyamazon]

Heist AU (WIP Wednesday)

i'm watching leverage again (i forgot its second season is set in boston!) which of course has me thinking about my heist au. still plodding along on it. the truth is this story's central relationship is heartshipping with a few other ships as a side dish (until the sequel we'll see). there's some twists and turns planned but since this is sort of central to the story i don't think it's too spoiler-y to post it.

no real warnings for beneath the cut. just relationship drama.

Yugi jogged across the street, hat still pulled down over his hair. He waved at Joey and opened his mouth to greet him, only for a fist to close around his shirt collar, and he was shoved against the van. A phone was shoved in his face. Yugi blinked at it.

“You didn’t tell me everything,” Joey said. “Bakura’s here.”

The phone was zoomed in on an image. The blurry face of Ryou Bakura, hidden behind a pair of glasses, stared out at him. Yugi let out a breath.

“Looks like he’s working with the Egyptians,” he said.

Joey huffed out a laugh. “You’re fucking kidding me. Did you know he’d be here?”

Yugi looked up at him. He had an innocent face, big eyes, soft cheeks, a natural earnest expression. He and Joey had met something like this, with Joey shoving him into lockers. Yugi didn’t even flinch.

“I didn’t,” Yugi said, “not know.”

Joey let go of him, running both hands through his hair. He’d run with a lot of bad people, doing a lot of bad things, but the difference with Yugi was he didn’t lie. He told Joey the truth, gave him a chance to say no, and kept it on the level. Suddenly the playing field had shifted.

“Is there even a buyer?” Joey asked.

“What?” Yugi shook his head. “I didn’t make anything up, Joey. I got contacted about a job.”

“That Bakura is on. That your ex is running.”

“He’s not–” Yugi breathed out. “We run in the same circles. I didn’t know he’d be here, but it has his name all over it. I knew there was as chance.”

“It changes things.”

“It doesn’t change anything.”

“It changes everything,” Joey said. “If this is a revenge thing, that’s a whole lot different. That makes it personal. You’re the one that told me, keep it clean.”

“I didn’t lie,” Yugi promised. “Ryou’s using his real name, his father’s connections. If he’s running a con, it’s a high risk one. I don’t know if he’s planning something, and I don’t care.”

“You don’t care,” Joey repeated. “He let you take the fall for a con he pulled, almost sent you to jail, and now he’s across the street working the same job you are, and you don’t care.”

He scraped his teeth over his bottom lip. “Okay, maybe I care a little, but only if it affects us.”

“Does it?” Joey asked. “Affect you?”

Yugi sucked in a breath, and the van door opened. Tristan watched them from inside.

“Problem?” he called.

Joey stared Yugi down, and Yugi didn’t blink.

“Nope,” Joey said.

“Cool,” Tristan said. “Now get off the fucking sidewalk. We’re in.”

—

Two years ago, it had gone like this.

Yugi’s grandfather had all sorts of connections in places you wouldn’t expect. Ryou Bakura was the son of a friend of a friend, another lonely kid that Yugi had known in high school. After Joey went back to America, the two had gotten close. Very close. Things had gotten complicated.

Ryou’s sting of petty larceny had started as an act of rebellion against his archeologist father. By the time he’d met Yugi, he’d upgraded to museum robbery. Yugi had kept his cons and thefts relatively low key, but he was interested in what else he could do. Ryou had an inside look at most of the museums his father worked for, and so the two formed a partnership. They were both clever in their own ways, and both excited to pull off more elaborate heists. Sometimes it wasn’t even about the money. Ryou wanted to stick it to his old man, and Yugi wanted to prove he could do it. They both saw it as a game. Maybe that was why Yugi hadn’t seen it coming. A tripped wire had them cornered by museum security. Ryou played innocent, using his father’s name to suggest that Yugi was the one that had led him here against his will. If it wasn’t for his grandfather’s connections, Yugi would’ve ended up with jail time. The worst part was, as Yugi was booked, Ryou had taken the painting for himself and fucked off back to England without so much as a goodbye.

As far as break ups went, that one had stung.

Yugi wasn’t the type of person to hold grudges. Joey’d been his high school bully, and they were the best of friends. He’d moved on, gotten more careful, kept with people he knew he could trust.

But there was a part of him, some little kernel hidden in his heart, a piece of black sludge that was angry and upset. And maybe, just maybe, pulling a job over Ryou Bakura’s head with an international audience would quiet that part of him. Maybe he could lay the whole incident to rest.

One can hope, anyway.