#series masterlist will be uploaded at a later time :3

[yuomizuu]

01. to be young & in love in new york city

꒰ kazuha x fem! reader ᯓ ᡣ𐭩 ꒱

w.c: roughly 3.3k+

additional info: modern au, strangers to lovers, mention of character passing out from exhaustion, kazuha is a freelance writer and reader is a baker. just a couple of adults trying to understand and figure out well…life.

( 💌 ) yuomi’s note: aka my very self-indulgent zuha series that absolutely no one asked for, but here we are ladies and gentlemen. honestly, this first chapter ( and really the entire series as a whole ) is kind of just a shot in the dark at me rewriting what was originally intended as a smau to instead be a full on narrative. whether you join along for the ride or not, we’re happy to have you here ( me and kazuha ) and hope you enjoy! (๑>◡<๑)

A blend of crushed coffee beans and baked pastries wafts through the air. The rich aroma makes Kazuha exhale a pleasant sigh of relief, chin resting on the palm of his hand as he continues to mindlessly stir his cup of tea that has long since become lukewarm. His curious eyes wander from place to place: observing the baristas hard at work behind the counter, the occasional passerby from the window, and the cafe's patrons either tending to their own devices or engaging in light-hearted conversation.

Kazuha can’t exactly pinpoint when it was he began doing this particular pastime of his. It merely came about to him one day and hasn’t been able to leave since, sticking to him like coffee stains found on a newly ironed shirt. There’s just a strange sense of enjoyment he gets when watching others from afar simply live out their lives. Or as he often refers to it; people watching.

His innate attentiveness is often regarded as an extension of his caring nature and while that retains some truth, for Kazuha, it is a quality that reaches beyond simple character. The quizzical looks he��d sometimes receive from others each time he noted the brief subtleties of something seemed proof of that. He could share with you many things. Like how each time that one college student sitting in the more secluded area of the cafe begins to bounce his leg, he’ll take a sip of his drink. Or the way one of the baristas' eyes seem to linger on her coworker for longer than usual and each time she's caught, the tips of her ears turn red ever so slightly. All minor details that could easily go unnoticed to the average person.

An old acquaintance of Kazuha’s from university—a student who went by the name of Kunikuzushi—had once referred to this unique observational behavior of his as though he were nothing but a fly on the wall: watching everything unfold around him but yet having little to no involvement. Although a rather rude analogy at the time, it was one Kazuha couldn’t ultimately couldn't refute, lest his own actions claim otherwise.

Perhaps it was the aged poet within him, but Kazuha held no desire to make his presence known by all with each room he entered, nor did he want to. He was perfectly content remaining just as he was now. Preferring instead to submit his inner most thoughts and feelings on certain matters to the familiar black ink that stains his fingertips each time he writes. To live his life akin to that of a wallflower.

A call to his name pulls Kazuha out of his episode of habitual daydreaming, facing back forward as Beidou, the cafe's owner, slides him an iced tea beverage poured into a mason jar. "Hit a stump with your writing? Or do you simply just got your head up in the clouds again?"

"Ah, sorry," he sends her an apologetic smile, reaching out for the drink that he takes a modest sip of. "I was just thinking."

"Of course you are. when are you not thinking Kaedehara?" She’s got him there. "Although…call it a hunch, but you seem to be "thinking" a lot these past few days. More so than usual. Got something particular on your mind?"

"You could say that…"

"That landlord of yours still bugging ya?"

Kazuha tries to brush off her comment with a laugh, though the way he grimaces slightly tells Beidou more than enough to the truth behind his situation. "My offer from before still stands, you know." She reminds him, making sure the mug she's drying in her hands is free of any stains before putting it away in the cupboards below the counter. "If you need a place to stay, my doors are open. All it costs is you becoming a worker here."

He quickly shakes his head dismissively. "It’s alright. I’m sure i'll have things worked out by the end of this week." A blatant lie, one that Beidou can see clear as day. Yet despite that, she says nothing, much to the male’s relief.

"Well, we're having another open-mic tonight. It’s a bit last minute but if you want, I can squeeze you in somewhere on tonight's lineup."

At her words, Kazuha takes a small glance towards the small makeshift stage that lies not too far off from where he sits. He watches as a band starts to set up for their performance, tuning their instruments and testing the microphones to make sure they work. For a moment he's inclined to take Beidou’s offer. After all, reading his poetry aloud has always helped clear his mind and it wouldn't be the first time he's participated in the cafe's weekly open-mic nights. He’s even become a regular performer. Customers and audience members alike manage to recognize him and instantly look forward to listening to his poetry.

But instead, he lets out a sigh. "I appreciate the offer Beidou, but…not tonight."

"Don’t got any new poetry to share for your devoted listeners?" She jokes.

"I do. It’s just…" he pauses, glancing at his journal on the counter that has remained untouched ever since he arrived. A troubled look flashes across his face, one that he quickly replaces with a smile upon realization. "What I have now just doesn't seem suitable to present to an audience. If I went ahead and read what I wrote, it wouldn't feel as fulfilling and would be an insult to a writers like myself."

The older woman stares at him for a moment, almost as though she were waiting for that smile of his to crack and honestly, had she waited any longer, it probably would have. But eventually, she lets out a small laugh as she shakes her head. "Alright, alright, I hear ya loud and clear. We’ll save it for next time then, yea?” She gestures at the iced tea, tapping her hand twice on the counter. "It’s on the house."

Before Kazuha can open his mouth to deny anything, Beidou has already walked off, making her way over to the band to make sure all is working order with the equipment. He observes from afar for a couple of seconds before turning back, face down, as a defeated sigh escapes from him this time. even he finds his own false display of positiveness to be laughable.

Digging through his pockets, he manages to find some spare change, and after placing the currency on the table counter as a tip, he gathers his belongings and promptly exits the café just as the band's mellow rnb music begins to play. Outside, he’s greeted with the sight of peach colored skies and rolling clouds of lavender as the sun sets across the horizon. A comforting sight that quells a bit of his surging worries while also serving as a reminder of the time. It would appear his mundane activities of drinking tea and people watching lasted for longer than usual today.

Adjusting his bag, Kazuha proceeds to walk towards the nearby bus stop, opting to stand nearby upon arrival once he sees the several people gathered around already. This part of the city did tend to get more crowded compared to others, especially during evenings or weekends. Which was only natural, of course, due to the countless stores, restaurants, and bars that could be found.

Even though it makes his wallet empty, Kazuha frequently ventures out here—the liveliness of the place puts him in a more positive mood compared to where he lives. Stealing Beidou’s words, for lack of better terms, his part of the city was rather bleak and somber. In the beginning, he didn’t mind waking up to the sound of drunkards hollering throughout the streets late at night or the unpleasant view of a rundown alleyway from his only window in his apartment. When you’re strapped for money, you have to make the most of things.

But after about a month or so, Kazuha just couldn’t stand to handle such an environment for any longer. A strife that clearly showed in his writings as well. Therefore, in a desperate attempt to seek a change of scenery, even if just for a short while, he took a bus ride to a random part of the city. Fast forward to now, and here he was, visiting the more bustling parts of his city whenever possible or whenever he was in the mood for jotting down a line or two of poetry. It’s a shame, really—if money wasn’t an issue for him, he’d happily move to this place without a second thought. Maybe one day…soon.

His phone buzzes from within his pocket. A message? Could it be from Ayaka? Of perhaps it was Heizou asking for assistance on one of his projects…again. As Kazuha continues to ask himself similar questions, he pulls out his phone, but as the screen lights up, and his eyes land upon the name of the sender, he quickly becomes filled with dread.

No one likes receiving messages from their landlord, least of all if said message is in regard to their late pay on that month’s rent. Unfortunately for Kazuha, he just so happened to be in that exact predicament and his landlord was anything but pleased with his negligence.

But did he seriously have to go and tell him he was getting evicted in less than a day? How could he possibly find somewhere else to stay in such a short amount of time?

Not bothering to respond any further, much less reason with his landlord, Kazuha immediately shuts his phone off, his grip around it tightening.

Ayaka—though kind-hearted as she may be—was always busy preparing banquets and organizing numerous charity events. If Kazuha asked to stay over at her place for a while, he feels he'd only end up being a hindrance to her work. Heizou’s dorm at the university was far too small to fit two people, let alone offer room to someone who was no longer a student, so that was an instant no-go. And although Beidou had happily offered him a place to stay, Kazuha just got done rejecting her help not even ten minutes ago. He couldn’t just turn back and say he needed help now. Not after all that trouble he went through insisting he was fine. That would be embarrassing! As for family…well, there wasn’t even an option for discussion to begin with.

While the distressed male continues to silently curse at himself as the increasing lack of options become more and apparent, his eyes barely manage to catch sight of the departing bus, doors closing as it begins to drive off. “Shoot— no, wait!” He reaches a hand out as he hurriedly runs over, waving frantically in hopes of catching the attention of the driver or any passenger onboard kind enough to alert them.

But all that he gets in return is the sight of the back of the bus slowly driving off into the road. That was the last and only bus that stopped in his part of the city.

It’s taking everything in Kazuha to not throw his phone across the street right here and now. one thing after another. Archons, was the universe simply out for him today?

Left with no other options, he opts to simply walk his way back home. If only he didn’t live on the other side of town…

── ⋅ ⋅ ⋅ ──── ♡ ─── ⋅ ⋅ ⋅ ──

The remaining hours of the day seemed to quickly pass by—the lingering traces of golden hour have long since faded into a veil of black skies, coated with shimmering with specs of stardust. Tucked away in the narrow streets of the city, lies your small yet quaint bakery. The golden lettering etched onto the glass door outside serving as the only indication that anything was there in the first place to the common passerby: Okashi Pastries.

You and your bakery are stationed next to a flower shop, the owner of which you know as Tighnari. Having your establishment set up next to his came with its perks. For starters, you always found it to be quite the delight to take in the smell of baked sweets mixing in with the delicate scent of roses, daisies, and tulips. Each morning you stepped out to set up the tables and 'open' sign, inhaling the lovely smell that permeated the air served as an energizing boost to start off your day.

Tighnari himself was also a pleasure to have as both your neighbor and fellow business owner. Aside from receiving the generous discount offers and exclusive access to newer arrivals, the florist was also a very considerate individual, occasionally giving you pointers on how to properly manage and promote your business. You’re almost certain that without his advice, your bakery would not have lasted for as long as it has.

“I mean, can you believe it?” Tighnari asked, allowing you to pour him another cup of herbal tea as he continued with venting out his frustrations of the day. “I had made it very clear to her that because she submitted her order to me at the last minute, that it wasn’t going to be ready on the day she needed it.”

You stifle a chuckle, carefully lifting your cup up to your lips. “Did you offer to give her a refund?”

“Of course I did! And not only that, but I even went as far as recommending other florist shops she could go to that would fulfill her order on the same day. But what did she decide to do instead? Complain to me over the phone for a whole hour about how my policies are ‘unethical’ apparently.”

Quickly swallowing the liquid down before you choked on it, you let out a laugh. “Well, no one said it would be easy running a self-owned business.”

“No they did not. Quite frankly, I would have very much appreciated the heads up about the amount of stupid customers I’d have to deal with before deciding to be a business owner.” Tighnari concluded in an exasperated tone, calming himself down by taking a long sip of his tea. After placing his cup down, he takes a look around at your bakery. “But you seem to be doing well at the very least. Have you been able to take care of the plants I gave you?"

You nod with a hum. “Mhm! They’re not as high maintenance as I originally expected them to be, so I’ve been managing them pretty nicely.” You follow his line of sight, observing the few potted plants you have scattered throughout the space. Their lush greenery and soft pastels of sprouting flowers add more life and color to the bakery. “The customers seem to like them too.”

“Hm, naturally.” The male comments, a subtle sense pride to his voice that you dismiss with a playful eye roll.

As the two of you continue discussing other topics, the chime of a bell suddenly echoes throughout the space. Pausing in your conversation, you and Tighnari simultaneously look towards the entrance. You catch sight of a white haired male almost stumbling in through the door, his hand gripping tightly on the handle as his entire body seemed to lean against it for support. You internally wince, thinking another drunkard has managed to find their way into your bakery uninvited—it’s happened before.

“Didn’t you have the sign switched to ‘closed’ already?” Tighnari questions in a hushed tone, sparing you a quick glance before fixating his eyes on the other with caution.

“I did…” you mutter back. Quickly masking a cordial demeanor, you walk out from behind the counter and carefully approach the male lingering by the entrance. “Um, excuse me…but can I help you with something?”

“Are you…open by any chance?” He speaks through labored breaths, his voice notably shaky and low.

“Uh, no sorry, I just closed up shop a while ago,” You start to explain, a hint of apprehension in your tone as you consider what to say next. You don’t catch any whiff of alcohol on him and other than his languid and unstable movements, he didn’t necessarily look completely intoxicated. Maybe he was just buzzed? “Did you perhaps want to place an order for something? If it’s small I’m sure I can still get it for you.”

He slowly shakes his head in response, attempting to push himself off the door. He attempts to speak again but all that comes out is a mixture of incoherent mutters and heavy breaths. You look over your shoulder back to Tighnari, who mirrors your equally puzzled look with on of his own.

“…Hey are you feeling okay? Hey…hey!” Letting your instincts take over, you immediately reach out and catch hold of the male suddenly falling forward. A slight panic courses through you as his body goes limp in your arms. Tighnari quickly appears at your side, leaning down a bit to observe the male’s condition whilst you glance between the two in concern. “Tighnari is he okay? Why did he just…?”

“He’s fine, just extreme exhaustion it seems.” He tells you, his voice calm as he gestures for you to follow his lead. “We need to lay him down somewhere, and also get him some water right away.”

With Tighnari’s instructions, you both carry the unconscious male up to your residence on the second floor. You manage to bring him inside and carefully lay him down on the nearby couch. You rush back in forth various different rooms, gathering all the things Tighnari requested of you while he tended further to the male’s condition.

Once everything settled down a little, you simply watched in silence from behind as Tighnari places a cool rag over the male’s forehead, adjusting his head against the pillow before standing up and taking a step back. He then looks to you. “If you want I can bring him over to my place instead.”

“No, no, it’s fine. I don’t have a problem with him being here.” You gaze down at the male sleeping now on your couch. “It’d be a whole hassle to carry him all the way there now…”

He’s passed out like a lightbulb. Chest rising and falling with each breath he takes, accompanied with the faint sound of light snores. You’ve tucked him into a fleece blanket you managed to find buried in the back of your closet where upon doing so, his body instantly relaxed, curling himself further beneath as his face became devoid of tension. the soft lines around his lips show that he must be dreaming blissfully. He looked almost akin to a slumbering child: innocent and carefree. You can’t help but soften your gaze at the sight as you feel a slight pang in your heart.

“Besides, he looks like he’s been through a lot. The least I can do is make sure he has an easy rest of the night. I know I’d want the same from someone else if I was in his position.”

And you did—back when you had just moved into the city with nothing but a few bags and some spare cash to your name.

It’s never been easy out here for you. Even after everything managed to fall into place and you succeeded in getting all the things you dreamt of wanting, It always felt like there had been something that was still missing from it all. 

Like when you’re modifying a new recipe for your batch of chocolate chip cookies. Sure, each batch you made was certainly sweet and had your tastebuds craving another bite, but it somehow still tasted just like your average cookie—something was missing to it, a key ingredient of sorts. Many of your customers, friends, and Tighnari brush it off as just your sense of perfectionism getting in the way, reassuring you that the taste was good just the way it was. But you were never satisfied.

To this day you have yet to find what that “something” is exactly. Both in your chocolate chip cookies and in life. Perhaps this summer, you’ll finally find what it is you’re looking for.

♡︎ series masterlist. | ✐ next.

[purplecoffee13]

“Say you’re sorry.”*

Hey guys! I’ve been writing different parts of different series (new and current ones) but I’m still in the middle of all of them, so I wanted to upload this blurb in the meantime. I usually don’t add pictures to blurbs but this one was too perfect not to add, like… look at him. Anyways, hope you like it!!! xxx

Wc: 1.3k

Warnings: SMUT, degradation, lowkey exhibitionism, daddy kink, spanking (only once but still)

General Masterlist

Blurbs Masterlist

************************************************

"What the fuck do you think you're doing, huh? Disobeying me, hanging up on me, driving me fucking crazy? Thought I'd taught you well... why are you being such a brat tonight?"

"Just wanted to have fun with my friends..." you protest, letting Harry drag you to his car. Your stomach bubbles in excitement, curious to see what he is going to do to you.

Tonight you had had a girls night with your two best friends, to celebrate the fact that you were all engaged or married. You had been friends since college and couldn't believe you had all come so far. However, a few hours and a bottle of wine later, you all realized: you hadn't gone out in a damn hot minute.

Naturally, the idea of going clubbing came to mind. You texted Harry, telling him you were spontaneously going clubbing, but wouldn't be home later than two (you two were flying to your mom the next day, so you didn’t want to be extremely unrested). He texted you back to go to Mercy—the club which he owned—because he had arranged VIP and a limitless tab for you there, and also reminded you to text him if you'd be home later than three so he wouldn't worry.

You agreed, and so you and your friends went to the club. However, time flew by and before you knew it was 3:30am and you were still dancing the night away. It wasn't long after that Harry showed up.

Your friends had agreed when he said he was going to take you home and let her rest a bit before getting on the flight tomorrow, and asked if they wanted to make use of the Uber he reserved for them. Since they both lived on the other side of town, he figured that would be most efficient.

It didn't take long before your friends were safely in the car paid for by Harry. Then, it was only the two of you, and your fiancé wasn't wasting any time.

"You told me you'd be home two hours ago. We have to be somewhere tomorrow." He tells you once he has escorted you back to the dark parking lot where his BMW stood between a bunch of other cars. He pulls you in between his car and another, and pushes you against the vehicle. His free hand slips under your dress and past your panties. You sigh when his fingers come in contact with your clit and start to rub.

"I lost track of time!" You whine, shutting your eyes at the pleasure of Harry's touch. A shriek leaves your mouth when Harry slaps your clit.

"I called you five fucking times, and you ignored me. You're a spoiled fucking brat." He growls in your ear, stimulating your clit further. You bite your lip, looking around to check if there is no one here. Your eyes land on a bouncer, standing in front of the back exit Harry just carried you out of. You gasp, worried that he sees you and maybe thinks the wrong thing. Harry is quick to catch on to your worries.

"Don't worry baby, he works for me, he won't think anything of it. I own that club, remember?" He says confidently, and you let out a moan. The tone of his voice has you hot and bothered for him. Your boyfriend can be so cocky, and it's so fucking hot.

"Shit… Oh my god!” you whine as your eyes roll into the back of your head. His assertiveness and stern tone had done something to you, and being a bit tipsy always made it easier for you to come, but this was extremely fast.

“You gonna come for me already? How pathetic…” Harry teases you, only increasing the speed of his fingers and positively letting you descend into heaven or wherever it is that these euphoric orgasms always seem to send you.

"Say you're sorry, baby. Say you're sorry and I'll let you come." He orders. You bite your lip, jaw slacked as you try to contain the amount of noises that threaten to leave your mouth.

"Sorry— oh f–fuck!" You squeeze your eyes shut at the feeling of his fingers rubbing harsher, interrupting your apology. "I'm sorry, daddy."

There was a part of Harry that wanted to snatch his fingers away from you and make you cry for an orgasm until your eyes were all puffy and red, and then fuck you for the rest of the night. But he knew that the flight of tomorrow was going to kill you if you didn't have at least a bit of sleep, so he cut you some slack this time.

"Alright, come on baby, come all over my fingers." His rough voice orders, and he has to slap his hand over your mouth to muffle the squeal that escapes you as your orgasm takes over your body.

There isn't much time to come down from anything, as Harry is quick to take away his hand and open the car door. You watch as he steps inside and backs up his seat, giving you enough space for what you know he wants to do. As expected, he pulls you into the car, and you climb on top of him as he closes the car door. With the car seat leaned further down, he lays down and silently observes you. The cocky raise of a brow that says 'go on' makes your cunt ache for him again, and you are quick to follow his silent orders.

You unbutton his pants and whip out his cock, mesmerized by it as always. Harry smirks at you, still delighted by how starry eyed you get over him. You line yourself up with your fiancé's cock and push him into you. A sigh of relief leaves Harry's mouth and it makes you even wetter than you thought you could be.

Nothing but heavy pants and the squelching sounds of you bouncing up and down in Harry's cock fill the car.

"Oh, daddy! You feel so good!" You whimper, attempting to increase your speed. Harry moans out at the impact with which you are impaling yourself on his dick, and his hands travel to your tits.

"Look at you, crying for my cock, like the little slut you are." He notes tauntingly. "Don't know how to apologize in any other way than bouncing yourself dumb on my cock, do you?"

"N– ah! Fuck!" You try to respond to him, but Harry thrusts up into you, and the feeling of him so deep inside of you renders you unable to speak. Tears flow down your cheeks at the intensity of his thrusts and you aren't sure how long you'll be able to hold yourself up.

"Aw, is it too much for you baby?" He asks, following his words with an extra hard thrust. You hold on to the seat beside you in order not to fall forward, moaning uncontrollably at Harry's devilishly dirty antics.

"S– so much daddy..." you manage to croak out, and a mean laugh escapes Harry's throat. Your shut eyes open for a second, knowing you will want to see the beast you've unleashed with disobeying Harry tonight.

"Well that's too bad baby, because I don't give a fuck. I'm gonna fuck you until I've had enough, and you're going to shut up and take it, understood?" He orders, and when you don't immediately respond with words, he slaps your ass.

"Fuck! Yes, yes, daddy! Anything, please, I'm sorry. I'll be so good for you..." you start blabbering, and the sound of Harry's low chuckle vibrates all the way to your core.

"Yes you will. Now, bounce on my cock sweetheart, I never told you to stop…”

[astarionancuntnin]

here's my masterlist with everything i've written! note that:

all fics are explicit and astarion x fem!reader unless specified

series and multichapter fics have their masterlist linked with all chapters and ao3 links

one-shots/requests will have their main theme mentioned in parentheses next to the title, and the full lists of content warnings are available on their linked post/ao3 page

Requests: CLOSED

Current pending requests: 3

- i am more comfortable writing astarion (spawn or ascended) and halsin, but im open to get out of my comfort zone and write other characters! - i write in third or second POV (more experienced with x reader/tav) - comfortable with most types of writing (fluff, smut, angst, hurt/comfort) - i am willing to go extremely dark and kinky (basically ask and if its above my limit ill tell you, but if ive already written about it, im cool with it) - send an ask and ill get started on it! (i am quite busy recently, but i promise to get around to your request sooner rather than later)

fics are posted in chronological order of creation

this list will keep getting updated as i upload more

full list below the cut!

she was a wildfire that couldn't be tamed; he was the night star admiring her ruthless dance

Undisclosed Desires (Denial of feelings, rivals to lovers) (part 1)

Masterlist

astarion and you, along with your other companions, have been traveling together for a few weeks now. he gets on your nerves at least once a day. but as much as you hate to admit it, your late night activites are plagued by him. little do you know, hes aware of the effect he has on you and intends to use that to his advantage.

Bad Blood (Mature, Angst, follow up fic to Undisclosed Desires, Astarion POV) (part 2)

Masterlist (not posted yet)

it was meant to be a nice, simple plan. get the sorceress to fall in love with him to assure his safety. what he didn't plan was to fall for her as well, and all the complications that came along with it.

A Lesson in Taming Your Dark Consort

(all fics in this series are one-shots that surround the dynamic between Ascended Astarion and his consort Malva (my oc evil tav), heavily BDSM driven)

Taming a Tempest (spanking, semi-public sex)

oh, to be the Vampire Ascendant's dark consort. to have eternity and enhanced powers right at her finger tips - only to be denied. but two could play this game, and Malva would make Astarion regret witholding anything from her.

read on ao3

read on tumblr

Dancing on the Edge of a Knife (knife play, orgasm denial)

ever since his ascension, Malva was convinced that Astarion was the only person who could understand her every twisted desire. well, almost. there are some things she still keeps to herself, he simply wouldn't understand this part of her, the one who dances on the very edge of her knife.

read on ao3

Contributions to Angels of The Night Collection

read on tumblr

Blood Sisters (MalvaxMerelind)

Die For You (Lovers to Enemies to Lovers, Ascended Astarion) Completed work!

contains some Shadowheart x fem!reader

Masterlist

the ascension changed the person Astarion was, or so you believed. you broke up and parted ways after defeating the netherbrain, thinking it was for the best, but when you see him again 6 months later at the reunion, you realize you never truly moved on. and neither did he.

Meet Me In The Woods (predator/prey)

read on ao3

read on tumblr

it's astarion's turn to keep watch for the night. everyone's off to bed and he's still gone hunting and nowhere to be seen. you refuse to be the one to fill in for him again, so you venture into the woods looking for where he was last seen.

Midnight's Embrace (weed, polyamory)

astarion x female!reader x halsin

read on ao3

read on tumblr

you can’t recall the last time you had a real, good night of sleep. your fight with the nether brain is approaching fast and your anxiety is only increasing. halsin proposes to try a special brand of herbs to alleviate your mind. turns out this herb also awoke something else in you.

Nothing But A Dream (somnophilia)

read on ao3

read on tumblr

you've agreed to take things slow with astarion, only partaking in nighttime activities when he specifically desires them, and this morning, he wants you. but he would hate to intrude on your precious beauty sleep.

Run, Little Fox (predator/prey, hate sex, mildly dubious consent)

read on ao3

read on tumblr

this brat of a rogue questioned your leadership one time too many, it is time he learns his place, and youll do it the only way he'll listen to you: with a challenge. if you win, he will be held accountable for his actions, but if he wins, he gets to use you every night. it doesn't matter anyway, you'll win... won't you?

Public Display of Affection (A!A, jealousy, semi-public/loud sex, hints of voyeurism feat. Gale)

read on ao3

read on tumblr

his consort - his beautiful, too kind for her own good - forever young lover. she was his, and his only, and he believed it was long overdue to make that statement clear among the rest of their group. after tonight, the only name spiling from her luscious lips would be his.

Death is Not an Escape (Mature, Dead By Daylight AU, heavy angst)

read on ao3

read on tumblr

it wasn't supposed to end like this, they were supposed to get out and defeat the absolute - together. but as a dark fog swallowed them whole, their fates changed drastically.

The Ways of Worship (Priest/Modern AU, Corruption)

read on ao3

read on tumblr

this faith was all you've ever known. so when you wake up a morning with the dreadful feeling that you've lost it, you do the one thing that makes sense - confess to your local priest. when he offers his guidance with the promise of making you whole again, you accept without a second thought. your first lesson begins tonight.

Remember Me (Angst, Audio adaptation)

read on ao3

read on tumblr

you can't make sense of where you are or even how you ended up in this cell - hells, you're not even sure of who you are at this point; any memories of your past are a blur. it's all the more confusing when a group of adventurers come to rescue you, and a particularly worried pale elf takes it upon himself to help you remember who you are.

sleeping next to astarion

A!A's children

your short future with astarion

A!A being possessive of his consort

[mythicalmaven]

Beyond Boundaries - Oscar Piastri (PART TWELVE)

I'm sorry in advance for the angst, i promise you, they'll be fine lol! Next chapter will be very angsty as well (which ill post later tonight), but I promise you that after the next one, it will get better! <3 Just trust me lol

Sorry btw for the long update wait, I fell ill sadly. Just got a bit better, so immediately took the chance to update lol. Upcoming Thursday I'm getting surgery for a chronic illness I have, so i've written a few chapters in advance to give you some updates. Would you want me to upload them asap? or prefer it to be spread out more?

Masterlist ↳pairing: oscar piastri x female!norris!reader ↳word count: 3.2K ↳chapters: One, Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Seven, Eight, Nine, Ten, Eleven, ↳chapter warnings: friends to lovers, brothers teammate trope, kissing, talking about feelings, angst

↳series summary: Since Oscar joined McLaren as your brother’s teammate, you two have quickly become best friends. Recently promoted to be Oscar’s physiotherapist, you both relish the opportunity to spend more time together. However, as the new role brings you closer, you both realize you might be feeling more a little more for each other than just friendship

It was the morning of the Japanese Grand Prix, when you stood by the window of your hotel room, bathed in the soft glow of the rising sun, when the faint sound of a rattling door handle reached your ears. A smile tugged at the corners of your lips, knowing there was only one person it could be.

When you had checked in, you’d handed Oscar the spare keycard, giving him the freedom to visit whenever he wanted. It had become second nature, the quiet understanding between you two—no need for formalities.

As you continued to gaze out at the horizon, you felt a familiar warmth as two arms wrapped around your waist from behind, pulling you into a gentle embrace. His chin came to rest on your shoulder, and you heard his soft voice, warm like a summer breeze. "Hi," he whispered, the sound sending a ripple of comfort through you.

You leaned into his touch, feeling your heartbeat quicken, but in the best way. "Hello to you too," you whispered back, your voice almost lost in the quiet of the moment.

The scent of his cologne, something undeniably him, drifted over you as he shifted slightly, his lips brushing softly against your cheek. "I missed you today," he murmured, his breath warm on your skin, the tenderness in his voice making your chest tighten.

Turning slowly in his arms, you faced him, your eyes catching his as you looked up through your lashes, teasing a bit. "Oh? Did you now?" you replied, your hands moving to circle his waist, fingers idly tracing delicate patterns on the fabric of his shirt.

"Yeah," he breathed softly, as though the admission was a weight he carried all day, now finally let go. His hand moved gently, brushing a loose strand of hair behind your ear with such care it made your heart flutter. His eyes flickered to your lips, lingering for a moment before lifting back to meet your gaze. There was a silent question in his eyes, one you had both answered many times before, but today, it felt different. Slowly, so slowly, he leaned down, and the world seemed to still.

His lips brushed against yours, feather-light at first, as if he was testing the waters, savoring the moment before fully sinking into it. The kiss was soft, almost hesitant, but filled with such tenderness that you felt your whole body tingle with warmth. He kissed you like he was rediscovering something he’d been longing for all day.

Butterflies erupted in your stomach, your senses filled with nothing but him—the soft press of his lips, the faint scent of his cologne, the way his thumb gently caressed your jawline as he cradled your face in his hand. Every nerve in your body came alive, responding to the gentle way he moved against you, slow and deliberate, as though he had all the time in the world to cherish this moment.

You melted into him, one of your hands slipping up to rest against his chest, feeling the steady thrum of his heartbeat beneath your palm. The kiss deepened ever so gradually, the gentleness of it leaving you breathless. It wasn’t rushed, wasn’t filled with the electric tension of your earlier kisses—those had been urgent, as though you were afraid the moment might slip away. But this… this was different.

Oscar kissed you like you were precious, like he wanted to memorize every second. His lips moved against yours with a softness that made your heart ache in the best way. When his tongue finally brushed yours, it was slow, careful, an exploration rather than a demand, sending a wave of warmth flooding through you. The butterflies in your stomach turned into something more—a heady rush that made your knees feel weak. The kiss was languid, unhurried, each movement filled with an intimacy that spoke volumes, as if you were the only two people in the world.

When you finally pulled away, the air between you crackled with the quiet intensity of what had just passed. Oscar’s forehead rested against yours, his breath mingling with your own, both of you a little dazed by the experience.

He blinked, as if coming back to reality, and a small, breathless laugh escaped his lips. "Wow," he murmured, his eyes soft and filled with something that made your heart skip a beat.

You couldn’t help but smile, feeling the warmth in your cheeks. "Yeah… wow indeed."

The moment stretched between you, neither of you in a rush to let it slip away, both basking in the afterglow of the kiss, hearts pounding, completely in sync.

Oscar absentmindedly twirled a lock of your hair around his finger as he spoke up, his voice still hoarse from your earlier kiss. "Since I can’t really take you out on a proper date… I was thinking we could maybe order room service tonight after the race," he suggested, his tone soft and tentative. "And, maybe watch a movie together? If you’re up for that?"

Your heart skipped a beat, warmth spreading through you at the thought. The smile that had been playing on your lips since the kiss only deepened. "That sounds perfect," you replied, your voice light but filled with affection.

Oscar smiled, leaning in to give you a soft, chaste kiss before pulling back. "We’ve got to head out in about 30 minutes, by the way. Lando’s meeting us in the lobby," he added, his eyes twinkling as he mentioned your brother.

"Right, sounds good," you responded, but hearing Lando’s name tugged at something in the back of your mind—something you still needed to tell Oscar. Taking a deep breath, you began, "Speaking of Lando…"

Oscar raised an eyebrow, settling himself on the edge of the bed as he looked at you curiously. "Hmm?"

You shifted slightly, scratching the back of your neck, feeling a flicker of nerves. "Well… Lando knows. About us, I mean. That we’re, you know… trying to give this a shot."

Oscar's expression softened immediately, and he reached out, taking your hand in his, his thumb brushing soothing circles on your skin. "Okay," he said simply, his voice calm, encouraging you to continue.

You exhaled slowly, glad for the comfort of his touch. "We were having dinner yesterday, and you know how brothers can be. He just… knew I was hiding something. I didn’t want to lie to him, so I told him—about how I feel about you, and how we’re figuring things out, no labels or anything."

Oscar’s grip on your hand tightened, but it wasn’t in discomfort—it was reassurance. "It’s okay," he whispered, his voice so gentle it made the tension drain from your body.

You glanced down at your intertwined hands, the weight of his acceptance making you feel lighter. "You’re sure you don’t mind him knowing?" you asked cautiously, meeting his eyes again. "I know we agreed to keep things private, and I didn’t want to disappoint you…"

Before you could finish, Oscar gently pulled you into his lap, his arms wrapping securely around you. "Of course I don’t mind," he murmured, his lips brushing your temple. "Honestly? If it were up to me, I would’ve called you my girlfriend already."

A soft sigh escaped you, the complexity of it all pressing down again. "It’s just… complicated, Osc," you whispered, resting your head on his shoulder.

He pressed a tender kiss to your cheek, his breath warm against your skin. "I know you feel that way," he replied, his free hand coming to rest on your thigh, his thumb stroking you with the same tenderness as before. "And that’s okay. I’ll wait for you—for as long as you need. Even if it takes years."

A single tear slipped down your cheek, the weight of his patience and love overwhelming you. "I’m sorry," you whispered, your voice trembling slightly.

Oscar’s thumb gently wiped the tear from your face, his smile soft but unwavering. "Don’t be sorry, love," he said, his forehead coming to rest against yours, the warmth of his presence grounding you. "You’re here, with me, and that’s all that matters. Label or no label."

The sincerity in his words melted any remaining doubt, the comfort of his arms around you making you feel like you were exactly where you were meant to be.

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You made your way from to paddock to the garage as you saw Oscar's call pulling into the pit lane, making his way to his designated garage. Normally you looked forward to this moment, Oscar climbing out the car and having your little post race debrief.

This time it was different, it was time for the plan that was made. You leaned with your back against one of the walls near the entrance of the garage, looking at what was unfolding in front of your eyes. Ava was standing in the garage, close to Oscar's car, taking the headphones of her ears, fixing her way too beautiful hair.

You felt a hand on your shoulder, your brother Lando. When you turned around you saw him looking at you with a caring look on his face "You sure you want to see this?" he whispered, low enough that only you would be able to hear.

You swallowed, hard. You shook your head "No, but I don't really have a choice, do I?" you replied, sighing softly "I'm always here after the race, it would be a bit unusual if I'm suddenly not there"

Lando agreed wordlessly with you, squeezing your shoulder "You struggling more with this plan every day, aren't you?"

You nodded, your hands fiddling with the hem of your McLaren team shirt "Yeah, but I'll be fine. I'll get over it"

Lando tried to keep talking to you, tried to keep you distracted so you wouldn't see the whole happening, the stupid media plan, but he saw the ways your eyes shifted to Oscar as he climbed out of the car, taking of his helmet. Lando noticed how you were watching Oscar making his way over to Ava, gently grabbing her hand, squeezing it softly. Purposefully making it seem as if he was trying to avoid the camera, while he made sure the cameras were pointed at him.

Ava send Oscar a smile, she looked genuinely taken away by how good Oscar looked getting out the car. Everything in you hoped it was just proving how good of an actress she was, but somewhere in you you were scared. She was pretty, in your opinion way prettier than you.

Your breath got stuck in your throat, a pang of jealousy stinging in your heart as you saw Oscar leaning down a little, pressing his lips to Ava's cheek, before moving his lips to her ear, clearly whispering something in her ear, something you couldn't decipher.

You felt yourself drowning in feelings you couldn't explain. You felt hurt, even though you knew this was totally planned & not Oscar's choice. It wasn't much, nothing more than a kiss on his cheek, but you wanted it to be you.

You wanted to be the one in his arms after the races, and not just being his behind closed doors. That's when you realized, you wanted to be his, and not in the way you were now. You wanted to be his girlfriend, something you could ethically never be.

You felts tears pricking in the corner or your eyes, as you turned on your heels "I-I can't do this" you stuttered to your brother, trying to rush off.

Lando grabbed your arm "Y/n.. don't go.. I want to be there for you, but you know I can't leave now" he uttered.

You knew he couldn't leave, since he still had some obligations he had to do, so you definitely didn't blame him in any way, but you just couldn't stay here any longer.

"It's fine, Lan. I-I.. I just gotta get out of here"

With those words you rushed out of the garage, making your way to somewhere quiet, leaving Lando dumbfounded in the garage, watching as Oscar made his way over to him.

Oscar looked in the direction you were walking, his eyes shifting back to Landon "Where is she going?" he asked, his voice a little timid.

"She had to.." Lando started, trying to come up with a lame excuse, not wanting to snitch on his own sister "meet up with someone from the medical team, something unexpected came up"

Oscar was a bit skeptical, but seemed to buy it. He wanted to speak up, asking Lando when she'd come back, but was cut off by the feelings of a hand grabbing his upper arm, specifically Ava's hand.

"Hey" Ava greeted to Lando.

"Hi" Lando spoke, a bit stoic. He shifted his weight from one foot to the other. It wasn't as if he disliked Ava as a person, after all, she was just doing what was told, but he just didn't like to see his sister this way.

She looked up as Oscar, giving him a small side hug, so she could whisper something "I think that was enough for the camera's, I'll be in the hospitality when you need me"

"Y-Yeah.." Oscar whispered, awkwardly hugging her back "Sure, I'll see you later"

Lando shot Oscar a knowing look as Ava disappeared from their sight, leaving the boys alone again. Oscar threw his hands up in the air "Please, don't even say anything" he whined desperately.

Oscar sighed again "Did she see it?" he asked, carefully.

Lando nodded, pursing his lips together "Oh, yeah, she definitely did"

Oscar felt himself freeze. His chest tightening, his voice quivering "Honestly, I don't think I can do this". The whole PR thing, I hate it""

Lando sighed, resting against the wall "Then why did you agree?" he asked.

Oscar looked around him, making sure no one would be able to eaves drop on their conversation "I didn't want her career to get screwed over because I couldn't keep my feelings in check"

Lando took a step forwards, moving closer to Oscar's ear to make sure he could whisper his next words soft enough "I honestly think this is destroying her as a person more, than you two going public would destroy her career"

It had been that same day, that Oscar had decided he couldn't do this. He didn't want to and he was going to talk to Zak about it. Tell him that he was to socially awkward for this, that he didn't feel comfortable. He wanted to say that he could come up with a statement explaining what exactly had happened between the mystery woman and him when those pictures of the two of you had leaked.

Though it seemed that luck hadn't been on his side. Every time he even got close to talking about it, something else came in the way. If it wasn't Zak, it was someone from the media team. All in all it had been over two weeks and he still hadn't spoken to Zak about it.

It ate him up inside, but instead of talking about it, he did what he always did. Pushing it away. Pretending like it didn't bother him. Convincing himself that he could do this for you, to protect you. Because that was what it all seemed to be about for him, protecting you from the media.

Every time he had confronted you about it, asked if you were still okay with it, you had lied to him that you didn't struggle with it. Trying to convince both him and yourself that it did you nothing. Oscar could sense that you were lying, but didn't want to press too much.

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A few race weekends had passed since the whole PR stunt began, and you found yourself lounging on Daniel’s bed, playing video games with him. You and Daniel had always shared a close friendship—he was like a brother to you. Lately, since everything started with Lando and him, your bond with Daniel had only strengthened.

Today, as with so many days before, you’d turned to him for advice. Letting out a deep sigh, you shifted your gaze to the ceiling. “I think I might need to end things with Oscar.”

Daniel mirrored your sigh, understanding the weight of your words. “It’s getting to be too much, isn’t it?” he replied gently.

Your breath caught for a moment; he’d hit the nail on the head. You had spent weekend after weekend watching the guy you loved cozy up to someone else. You knew it was staged, but that didn’t make it any easier. It was taking a toll on your mental health.

“Yeah, something like that,” you muttered, fiddling with the controller in your hands. “I just don’t think I can keep this up much longer.”

“Why not?” he asked softly, careful not to press too hard, just enough to let you get it all out.

“Don’t get me wrong—I’m completely in love with him. That’s not the issue. It just hurts seeing him with someone else, even if it’s all for show. I know the whole thing will wrap up in a month, but it’s not like everything magically fixes itself after that,” you confessed, the words spilling out in a rush. “I’ve been sneaking around with Oscar for weeks, lying to everyone but you and Lando. The grid knows the PR relationship is fake, but they don’t know about me and Oscar. And even after the stunt is over, I’ll still have to hide everything. I can’t share photos, go on dates in public, or even hold his hand.”

Daniel’s expression softened as he listened, searching for the right words to comfort you, but nothing seemed quite enough.

You looked over at him, a tear forming in the corner of your eye, threatening to fall. Pressing your lips together, you tried to keep your composure. “It’s just… Oscar and I can’t ever be official. They wouldn’t have started this whole PR stunt if it were okay for us to be together. As much as I love my job, I regret taking it sometimes. If I’d chosen something else, maybe I wouldn’t be in such a difficult position.”

“If you hadn’t taken the job, you and Oscar might never have admitted your feelings in the first place,” Daniel pointed out gently, turning on his side to face you. “And they only started the PR thing because you two hooked up at that nightclub. It would’ve looked unprofessional if it was just a one-time thing. But it’s not; you love each other. Honestly, I don’t think anyone would be against you and Oscar being together. You two are practically made for each other.”

“I don’t know… it’s just so complicated, and there are so many ‘what ifs,’” you replied, more to convince yourself than anyone else. “Besides, we don’t even know if things would work out if we made it official. What if it all falls apart?”

“You need to talk to him,” Daniel urged. “Tell him how you feel about this. Don't give up on something magical. Don’t break things off just because it seems complicated. All paths lead to Rome, little Norris.”

⁺⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾⋆⁺₊⁺⋆ ☾⋆₊ ⁺⋆⁺

After your conversation with Daniel, you’d finally made up your mind. You were done hiding, done sneaking around in the shadows. You wanted to be with Oscar—fully, openly, without pretense. The decision had settled inside you with a reassuring certainty, and today was the day you’d tell him. The plan seemed clear: head to his driver’s room after qualifying, catch him before he left for the hotel, and let him know how you felt.

Heart pounding with nervous excitement, you navigated the bustling hallways, each step drawing you closer to Oscar. You could still hear the faint echoes of post-qualifying chatter and laughter from nearby rooms, mechanics and drivers cooling off from the adrenaline. Reaching Oscar’s door, you lifted your hand to knock—only to notice that the door was slightly ajar, just enough to offer a sliver of the room within.

Curiosity got the better of you, and you leaned closer, peering through the narrow opening. There he was—Oscar, standing close to Ava, his hands resting gently on her hips. Her slender arms wrapped around his neck, pulling him into a kiss. Your breath hitched, freezing you in place as the scene unfolded. For a moment, your mind scrambled, searching for any explanation. But as her lips pressed deeper against his and their kiss grew more intimate, the truth hit hard and fast.

You tried to look away, tried to step back, but it was like your feet were cemented to the floor, your heart dropping with every second that passed. Silent tears began to slip down your cheeks as you watched. Oscar still hadn’t noticed you—but Ava’s gaze flicked briefly in your direction, a glint of awareness in her eyes. She saw you there, knew you were watching, and her hand moved up to cradle the back of Oscar’s neck, tilting her head to deepen the kiss, almost as if she were putting on a show.

The shock held you captive for a moment longer, but the pain soon snapped you free. Stumbling back, you turned on your heel and hurried down the corridor, every step growing faster until you were practically running. The people passing by shot you curious glances, but you couldn’t care less. You just needed to get away, far from the image now seared into your mind.

Blinking back more tears, you found yourself searching for the one person who might understand. You spotted Lando in the paddock, looking relaxed as he chatted with a couple of engineers. Noticing your approach, his smile faded, concern flashing across his face.

You came to a stop in front of him, breathless and barely holding back the sob that threatened to spill. “Lando…” you choked out, struggling to keep your voice steady.

“Hey, hey, what’s wrong?” His expression turned serious, his voice gentle as he pulled you into a hug.

You swallowed hard, the words coming out in fragments, voice as soft as a whisper. “I thought… I thought he was mine, but… he was with her. I saw them… kissing.”

The realization dawned in Lando’s eyes as he pulled away from the hug, placing a comforting hand on your shoulder. You didn’t need to say much more; he understood. With a quiet nod, he guided you away from the bustling paddock, giving you the space to let the tears flow freely.

"I am going to kill the asshole.." he mumbled, the anger in his tone evident.

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[differentpostrebel]

Lost and Found: A Pirate's Promise

Chapter 18: Fragile Promises

A/N: We are back at it again with another chapter! Thank you to everyone, who has followed, who has liked the series so far, who has reblogged, commented. I cant wait for you guys to continue reading what else I have in store! I'll also be creating a masterlist soon so that way its more organized for you guys!. We have a surprise guest in this chapter so you dont want to miss this! Chapter 19, will be uploaded tonight as well. And we are getting the showdown! Law vs Vergo and Y/N vs Monet! We even got some Sanji moments in there as well!  But without further ado let's get to it!

Word Count: 5.8K

Sanji X Reader, Sanji x Y/N, One piece X Reader 

Chapter 1, Chapter 2, Chapter 3, Chapter 4, chapter 5, chapter 6, Chapter 7, Chapter 8, Chapter 9, Chapter 10, Chapter 11, Chapter 12, Chapter 13,chapter 14, Chapter 15, Chapter 16, chapter 17, Chapter 18 (here)

Sanji POV… 

"I’m not going anywhere... I promise," I murmured, holding Y/N close as she clung to my coat. Seeing her so bruised and battered, her top missing and her wounds still fresh, made my heart ache. I felt a pang of guilt and jealousy knowing I wasn’t there to protect her.

"Y/N... where’s your top?" I asked, trying to keep my voice steady despite the jealousy and concern I felt.

"Oh, that," she began, her voice trembling slightly. "The Yeti Cool Brothers kidnapped Nami and me. I was tied up, and my back was bruised and bleeding. After Traffy rescued us, we went back to the encampment. I gave Chopper the ointment I used during training so my wounds could heal faster. Chopper, who was in your body at the time, helped with the ointment. Then Traffy saw I needed more care and took over. He bandaged me up, but I need to get this tightened again later."

The thought of Chopper and Law seeing her so vulnerable filled me with a mix of jealousy and frustration. Just then, Law’s voice cut through my thoughts.

"Hey, Cook!" Law called, his tone dripping with mockery.

"What now, Traf—" I began, but Law cut me off.

"I’m giving Y/N my coat again," Law said, tossing it toward her. "It’s warmer and should cover her better."

Y/N caught the coat and put it on, visibly relieved but still looking exhausted. "Thanks, Traffy."

"Don’t mention it," Law said, his smirk never fading. "Just doing my part."

I shot Law a heated glare, unable to hide my frustration. "You think you’re so noble, always swooping in like you’re the only one who can help."

Law’s smirk widened. "Well, maybe I actually care about her well-being. Unlike some people who only show up when it’s convenient."

"Convenient?" I snapped, unable to keep the bitterness out of my voice. "You think you’re the only one who cares? What about all the times I’ve been there for her?"

Law’s eyes flashed with irritation. "You were there, but clearly not enough. I’m the one who’s making sure she’s okay now."

With a sudden, almost casual movement, Law activated his Devil Fruit ability. "ROOM," he said, creating a spatial bubble around Y/N. The space shifted, and before I could react, Law pulled Y/N closer to him, his arm wrapped protectively around her.

"Traffy, what are you—" I began, but Law cut me off with a sharp glance.

"Just making sure she’s comfortable," Law said coolly, his eyes locked onto Y/N with a possessive intensity.

Y/N looked up at Law, her eyes tired but grateful. "Traffy... thank you."

Law’s gaze softened as he looked at Y/N. "Don’t mention it. Just making sure you’re alright."

I clenched my fists, my jealousy boiling over. "Yeah, well, don’t think you’re the only one who can play the hero here."

Law’s smirk returned, though his eyes remained locked on Y/N. "You’re just mad because you can’t always be the one saving the day."

As we moved forward, the tension between Law and me was palpable. Our feelings for Y/N created a rivalry that was impossible to ignore, but for now, we had to focus on her safety and well-being. 

Just then, I saw Law’s hand gently cup Y/N’s cheek. My heart clenched as I watched him lean in slowly, his gaze fixed on her with an intensity that made my jealousy flare. Y/N looked up at him, her eyes filled with a mix of exhaustion and gratitude.

Law’s face was close to hers, and I could see the softness in his expression. He leaned in and placed a tender kiss on her forehead, a gesture that spoke volumes about his feelings.

I couldn’t contain my frustration any longer. "Hey, Traf! Get your hands off her!"

Law’s gaze shifted to me, his eyes narrowing with a mix of irritation and defiance. "And why would I do that, Cook? She needs comfort right now."

"Comfort?" I snapped, trying to control the anger in my voice. "You think you’re the only one who can give her that? Just because you’re here doesn’t mean you have a monopoly on caring for her."

Law’s expression hardened. "Maybe you’re just jealous because you weren’t the one who got to be here for her when she needed it the most."

Before I could retort, I saw Y/N start to make her way back to the first floor. She turned to Law and gave him a warm smile, one that made Law’s cheeks flush slightly. His smirk returned, but there was a softness in his gaze as he watched her leave.

"Alright," Law said, regaining his composure and shifting back to the matter at hand. "As you may notice, the whole island is completely covered in gas, but there is a way out. There's a passage that's completely enclosed, leading to the sea. This lab is massive, which means it has multiple buildings. We’re currently in Building A. Once you pass Building B, you’ll find Building R. Look for a door marked R-66. That passage will lead you to the sea."

He paused, letting the gravity of the situation sink in. "Here’s the deal: you all have 2 hours to escape, or you’ll die. As Law turned to head towards another passage in the lab, he cast one last glance back at Y/N. A sly smirk played on his lips as he called out, "Y/N, you stay safe out there! I’ll be sure to have a repeat of our session just in case your wounds need tending."

The comment made my blood boil. I clenched my fists, barely restraining myself. His smirk was infuriating, especially with the way he was so casually referring to their intimate moments.

Y/N’s cheeks flushed slightly at Law’s words, but she managed a weak smile. "Thanks, Traffy. I appreciate it." 

Law gave her a final nod before disappearing down the passage. I watched him go, my jealousy simmering beneath the surface.

Y/N POV.. 

To say that the interaction between Sanji and Law was going to be peachy was an understatement. The tension between them was thick, and I felt it weighing heavily on my already exhausted body. I was emotionally and mentally drained, barely holding it together. When Law used Room to separate me from Sanji, it reminded me of the chaotic moments back at Sabaody.

What really threw me off was Law’s kiss on the forehead and his slick comment about our "repeat session." His words made my face flush with heat, and I couldn't help but feel a mix of embarrassment and amusement. Sure, he had tended to my wounds, but the way he spoke about it made it sound like something far more intimate. I chuckled softly to myself, thinking that maybe I should tone down the flirting... but then again, where would the fun in that be?

After grabbing my sword, which I had dropped earlier, I turned to see Zoro approaching me. His usual stoic expression softened as he saw me, and he enveloped me in a warm hug.

"Hey, Y/N," Zoro said, his voice gentle but filled with concern. "You alright? You look like you’ve been through hell and back."

I managed a small smile despite my fatigue. "Just about. It’s been a rough day, but I’ll be okay. Thanks for asking."

Zoro gave me a reassuring squeeze before stepping back.

“You know Zoro, after today I might just take your offer on that tall cup of Sake.” I said. 

Zoro raised an eyebrow, a hint of a grin playing on his lips. "Oh? You remember that offer, huh? I’ll hold you to it. We can get a drink after this mess is sorted out."

I chuckled softly, feeling a small flicker of relief. "Definitely. I think I’ll need it after everything that’s happened."

As Smokey’s orders reverberated through the lab, the urgency in the air was palpable.

“Listen up, men!” Smokey’s commanding voice cut through the chaos. “We’re searching for missing children and then finding the door labeled R-66. According to Law, it’ll lead us to a harbor where we can escape Punk Hazard. Move out!”

The G-5 soldiers responded with a determined "Understood!" and swiftly began their search.

Nami took charge, organizing everyone with practiced efficiency. “We’re splitting up to find the kids and head to R-66. Let’s go!”

As we prepared to head to the door, Sanji’s hand reached out, grabbing my wrist with a firm yet gentle grip. His eyes were filled with a mixture of intense worry and frustration.

“Y/N,” he said, his voice trembling slightly with emotion. “I need you to be careful. This place... it’s not safe. I can’t bear the thought of something happening to you.”

I looked up at him, my heart aching at the sight of his concern. “Sanji..” 

Sanji’s eyes searched mine, his expression pained. “It’s… It’s... I care about you more than I can put into words. Seeing you hurt, or in danger—it tears me apart. I don’t want to lose you.”

I felt tears welling up in my eyes at his heartfelt words. “Sanji, I care about you too. Your worry means everything to me. I promise I’ll be as careful as I can.”

Sanji’s grip on my wrist tightened for a moment before he let go, his face a mix of relief and lingering concern. “Just... please, be safe. I need to know you’re alright. More than anything.”

I nodded, feeling a lump in my throat. “I promise. I’ll be careful.”

Sanji gave me a final, lingering look, his eyes full of unspoken emotions. “Stay safe, Y/N.”

As Zoro and I moved toward the doors, a sudden commotion drew our attention. The G-5 soldiers had surrounded us, their weapons at the ready. Without hesitation, I sheathed my sword and clenched my right hand, connecting it with my left palm, sending a surge of electricity crackling through the air.

The energy built up, crackling and sparking around my right hand as I prepared to strike. The tension was palpable, and I could feel the intensity of the moment, my heartbeat quickening in anticipation. Zoro, sensing the shift in the air, tightened his grip on his swords, ready to spring into action at any moment.  

Just as I prepared to strike, Zoro suddenly dropped his swords, his expression fierce. "Zoro?!" I exclaimed, confused and alarmed.

“Hey, Luffy!” Zoro shouted, his voice cutting through the chaos.

“What’s mosshead doing now? This better be good,” Sanji muttered, his concern evident despite his frustration.

“Luffy, you hear me?” Zoro continued, his tone urgent. “You’ve got to get it together! We’re in the New World! The stakes are high!”

I couldn’t help but smirk at Zoro’s commanding tone. Sanji joined in, a grin spreading across his face. “Just what we needed—a kick in the ass.”

Luffy, looking both surprised and somewhat abashed, scratched the back of his head. “Sorry about that. It won’t happen again.” His grin returned, more determined this time. With Luffy heading off toward Caesar, Smoker followed close behind, leaving Tashigi with the G-5 soldiers.

Suddenly, alarms began blaring throughout the lab. “What’s happening now?” I muttered, just as a G-5 soldier lunged at me with a blade. I quickly sent a shock through him, causing him to drop his weapon and stagger back. The other G-5 soldiers, startled, began cocking their guns again.

Before they could take aim, Zoro stepped forward, his voice commanding, “Stand down.” The authority in his tone was unmistakable as he grabbed the hilts of his swords. The Samurai and Brook readied themselves as well, preparing to strike. In unison, they launched attack after attack, slicing through obstacles and creating a clear passage.

“Y/N, get on,” Sanji called out, extending his hand toward me as he mounted Brownbeard’s back. His expression was serious, his concern for me evident. “We’ve got this, now let’s go find those kids.” says Nami, as we begin to hurry to the door. 

“Yeah!” Usopp echoed, determination in his voice.

Just as Zoro was about to unleash another attack to clear the way, Tashigi suddenly appeared, blocking his path with her sword. “Tashigi?” I said, surprised to see her intervene.

“But Captain, why?” one of the G-5 soldiers asked, confusion evident in his voice.

Zoro smirked, recognizing the familiar face in front of him. “Why hello, there, copycat. Captain now, huh? So why don’t you want to fight me?” His tone was teasing, but the challenge was clear as he held his stance, ready for anything.

Tashigi glanced back and forth between Zoro and me, her expression torn. “I see now where you get that smart mouth of yours, Y/N,” she said, her tone a mix of frustration and reluctant admiration.

I couldn’t help but chuckle. “Guilty as charged,” I replied, trying to lighten the mood despite the tension in the air.

After a moment of internal conflict, Tashigi broke away, turning to her men with determination. “Everyone, leave! Now!” she ordered, her voice firm and unyielding. The G-5 soldiers hesitated for a moment before following her command, retreating toward the doors.

Seeing the opportunity, we urged Brownbeard to hurry. “The only way out of this building is to escape now,” Tashigi shouted, her urgency palpable. “Caesar is trying to fence us in!”

We barely had time to process her words when a gunshot echoed through the lab, shattering the tense silence. The shot had pierced a wall, causing the poison gas from outside to start seeping in. The deadly mist crept toward us, its effects immediate as some of the G-5 soldiers began to turn to stone.

“RUN! NOW!” Tashigi yelled, her voice laced with desperation as she tried to get her men to move. We sprinted toward the sliding door, the gas closing in fast. Just as the door was about to shut, a few of the G-5 men grabbed their captain, throwing her over the threshold to safety.

“Let go of me! Our men are out there! We need to help them!” Tashigi cried, struggling against the soldiers holding her back.

“No can do, Captain,” one of the men said, his voice strained with emotion. “Please, just let me go!” Tashigi pleaded, tears brimming in her eyes as she fought to return to her men.

“Excellent Marines! Thank you! Our captain is safe; you’ve done the Navy proud! We’ll take it from here,” another soldier said, his voice steady as the door finally shut, sealing off the gas—and their fate.

We watched in silence, the weight of what had just happened settling heavily on us. The lab was filled with the quiet sound of Tashigi’s muffled sobs as she struggled against the reality of the situation, her tears a stark contrast to the grim resolve of the soldiers who had sacrificed themselves for her safety.

“Brownbeard, let’s move,” Nami said firmly, as we began to leave Tashigi and the G-5 behind. Robin had rejoined us, her presence a small comfort in the chaos.

“I can’t believe he’d destroy his own lab,” I said, shaking my head in disbelief. “He must be desperate to wipe us all out.”

“We may have escaped, but it doesn’t mean we’re safe yet,” Usopp said, taking off his coat. “We need to find those children and get to Gate R-66 fast.”

“Agreed,” Sanji added, his tone grim as he took a drag from his cigarette. “The sooner we get out of here, the better. I’ve had enough of this island.”

I lay back on Brownbeard’s back, wincing as pain shot through my leg. “Damn Vergo,” I muttered, clutching my leg.

Sanji noticed my discomfort and immediately knelt beside me, his expression turning from concern to determination. He carefully examined the damage on my leg, his brow furrowing as he took in the extent of Vergo's brutality.

“This is worse than I thought,” he said, his voice tight with frustration. “You’re hurt badly. I should’ve been here to stop this from happening.”

He took a deep breath and grabbed some cloth from his coat pocket, swiftly tearing it into strips. His hands worked with a focused urgency as he began to bandage my leg, his movements precise and firm. “Hold still,” he instructed, his voice gentle but insistent. “I’m going to do what I can to ease the pain and make it more manageable.”

As he wrapped the cloth around my leg, he looked up at me with a mix of worry and resolve. “I should have protected you better,” he said, his voice tinged with guilt. “I know I can’t undo what happened, but I’ll make sure you’re taken care of. We’ll get through this.”

Despite the pain, I felt a wave of gratitude wash over me. “Sanji, thank you,” I said softly, touched by his dedication. “I appreciate everything you’re doing.”

Sanji finished bandaging my leg, giving it a gentle pat. “We’re getting out of here,” he said firmly. “And once we’re safe, I’ll make sure you get the help you need. Just hold on a little longer.”

Before I could respond, Zoro shouted, “Hey, can’t you run any faster!” to Brownbeard, who was struggling under the weight of everyone on his back.

“Are you kidding?!” Brownbeard retorted, gasping for breath. “You guys are getting heavy! When did all of you get on my back?”

“You’ll have to forgive us, Brownbeard,” Zoro said with a shrug. “We don’t have much of a choice.”

“Really?! It better be a good one!” Brownbeard huffed.

“It is,” Zoro said, his tone deadpan. “We’ve been running all day, and now we don’t want to stop.”

I couldn’t help but giggle at the interaction. The levity was a welcome distraction from the pain in my leg.

“That’s a horrible excuse! Get off my back!” Brownbeard grumbled, his frustration evident.

The Samurai, who had been quiet until now, spoke up. “Good sir, your name is Brownbeard, correct?”

“Yes,” Brownbeard replied, still running. “Why?”

“It pains me to ask this,” the Samurai continued, “but my son has been taken, and I need to rescue him as soon as possible.”

“Huh?? Your son?” Brownbeard asked, clearly taken aback.

“Yes,” the Samurai confirmed. “I simply need your assistance because I am too tired to run.”

“You guys are horrible!” Brownbeard complained, shaking his head. “Get off my back!”

“I’m feeling a bit hungry,” Brook said cheerfully. “Brownbeard, do you have any snacks stored back here?”

“Ohh, I’d kill for some food right about now,” I added, rubbing my stomach. “And a drink too.”

Sanji’s eyes lit up with determination. “Ohhh, my goddess is hungry! Don’t you worry, I’ll whip you up a meal that will put you back to health in no time. No need for Law or Chopper to come and take care of you.”

Zoro raised an eyebrow and chuckled. “Seriously, Sanji? You’re thinking about cooking right now? We’re in the middle of a crisis!”

Sanji shot him a sharp look. “Well, someone has to make sure Y/N’s taken care of. It’s not like you’re offering any help.”

“Help? I’m carrying a sword and fighting off enemies while you’re planning your next culinary masterpiece!” Zoro retorted, crossing his arms. “Besides, it’s not like you’re the only one worried about Y/N.”

Sanji’s face reddened, his concern clearly turning into frustration. “Of course I’m worried! I’m trying to make sure Y/N is okay while you’re just standing around with your usual attitude!”

Brook chuckled at the exchange. “You two are always good for a laugh, even when things are tough.”

The sound of Brook’s laughter managed to pull a genuine smile from me, and I let out a soft chuckle despite my exhaustion.

Sanji suddenly stood up, his expression serious. “Guys, I’ll be right back. Mosshead, take care of Y/N.”

“Wait, Sanji, where are you—” I started to ask, but before I could finish, Sanji leaped into the air, using his Sky Walk technique to disappear into the distance.

“I wonder why he left?” I said, glancing at Zoro and Usopp.

“He probably sensed an enemy nearby,” Usopp suggested, his tone thoughtful.

“Ohhh, you’re right,” I murmured, watching Sanji’s retreating figure.

“Yeah, he’s got a sixth sense for these things,” Zoro said, his eyes scanning the surroundings. “Just stay alert.”

I nodded, my gaze following the path Sanji had taken. “Take care of yourself, Sanji,” I whispered, hoping he’d hear me somehow despite the distance.

Sanji’s POV… 

How dare that... that... egotistical asshole try to put the moves on my Y/N! The memory of Law’s smug face only fueled my anger. Once we get out of here, I won’t go easy on him. But what matters most right now is that I have my love back.

Seeing Y/N like this, bruises marking her beautiful skin, dried blood matted in her hair, her lip busted open—it tore me apart inside. I wasn’t there to stop this... I wasn’t there to protect you! The guilt gnawed at me, a bitter taste in my mouth. Yet here you are, looking at me with such grace, such love... I truly don’t deserve someone like you, Y/N.

When Y/N muttered, “Damn Vergo,” struggling to put weight on her injured leg, it felt like a knife to my heart. I couldn’t stand to see her in pain. I moved closer, the concern in my chest growing heavier.

“Let me see,” I said, my voice firm, but laced with the worry I couldn’t hide. I knelt down, taking in the sight of the dark purple bruise, the swelling on her right leg. It’s worse than I thought... Frustration bubbled up inside me, mixing with the guilt I carried. “You’re hurt badly...” I muttered, my voice thick with regret. “I should’ve done more for you.”

With shaking hands, I pulled out some cloth from inside my coat pocket, tearing off pieces to use as a makeshift bandage. As I started wrapping her leg, I whispered, “I swear, Y/N, I’ll never let anything like this happen to you again. I’ll protect you, no matter what.”

I finished bandaging her leg, giving it a gentle pat before looking up at her. The concern in my eyes was met with a soft, reassuring smile from Y/N, but it wasn’t enough to ease the guilt gnawing at me. As we continued our journey to rescue the children and get the hell out of Punk Hazard, a sudden shift in the air caught my attention. I paused, listening intently. It was faint, but unmistakable—a woman’s tears.

I must help! The thought was immediate, instinctual. I couldn’t ignore a lady in distress, not when she needed me.

“Guys, I’ll be right back,” I said, my voice firm with resolve. “Mosshead, take care of Y/N.”

Zoro grumbled something under his breath, but before Y/N could protest, I was already in motion. "Wait, Sanji, where are you..." her voice trailed off as I left the group, skywalking through the air with a singular focus—finding and helping the woman in need. Nothing else mattered in that moment. I’d find her, make sure she was safe, and then return to Y/N and the others. I wasn’t going to let anyone suffer if I could do something about it.

As I continued my way through the corridors, the distant cries of a woman grew louder, leading me right to the source. "Bingo!" I murmured, honing in on the sound. "I hear a lady in need of my help!" Without hesitation, I launched a powerful kick, sending the man who was causing her harm flying into a nearby wall. I landed gracefully, standing tall with determination etched on my face. Pulling out my cigarette, I lit it with a practiced flick, taking a slow drag before blowing out a puff of smoke.

"I heard the heart-breaking sound of a woman’s tears," I declared, finally coming face to face with the poor lady. But before I could say more, an alarm began blaring, its shrill noise echoing through the halls. "Crap, not this again!" I cursed under my breath, as the G-5 men around us scrambled to retreat, leaving me alone with this scumbag.

The man, still dazed from my kick, looked up at me with a sneer. "You’re a pirate," he spat. "Why are you helping a bunch of Marines?"

"Because you’re not supposed to hit ladies, scumbag," I shot back, my voice low and filled with menace. "Didn’t your parents ever teach you that?"

"Ladies, huh?" He mocked, a twisted grin spreading across his face. "Then I should’ve done more to the Princess. How’s her right leg doing?"

His words hit me like a ton of bricks, realization dawning on me in an instant. "Vergo!" I snarled, my hands clenching into fists. This was the scum who touched my Y/N!

He saw the recognition in my eyes and relished in it. "She’s a feisty one, let me tell you," he continued, taunting me. "I just couldn’t keep my hands off her. Would’ve done more if we were alone in a room."

Rage surged through me, hotter than any fire. I could feel my blood boiling, every muscle in my body tensing with the overwhelming urge to beat this bastard into the ground. "You’re going to regret ever laying a hand on her," I growled, my voice trembling with barely controlled fury.

This wasn’t just about defending a lady anymore—this was personal. This was for Y/N. And I wasn’t going to hold back.

Vergo sneered, unfazed by my anger. "I don't have time for your mortal platitudes," he spat, launching a barrage of kicks that I met with my own. Each strike reverberated through the corridor, the sheer force of our blows shaking the walls around us.

"What's a Straw Hat doing helping us?" one of the G-5 men muttered, watching the battle in disbelief.

"You saved my life," the woman—Tashigi, I realized—said, her voice filled with gratitude despite the chaos.

But there was no time to respond as Vergo pressed his attack, his moves precise and brutal. I countered with equal ferocity, determination blazing in my eyes. With a swift pivot, I unleashed my Flanchet Full Power Strike, my leg igniting with intense flames as I drove the blow into Vergo’s chest, sending him crashing through the wall once again.

"Holy crap, he's strong," one of the G-5 men exclaimed, their awe clear in their voices.

But I wasn’t done yet. Not by a long shot. This fight was far from over, and I was going to make sure Vergo regretted every single moment he spent laying a hand on Y/N.

"We gotta give him some backup, Captain!" a few of the Marines shouted, their voices trembling with urgency.

"What are you morons doing?!" I yelled, noticing the door sealing the gas was now opening. "Caesar wants to seal you up to poison you! See what I mean!"

Just then, Vergo stood up, his expression unreadable as he prepared for another round. "Well, would you look at that," I muttered, realizing what was going on. "You've got metal under your skin. Y/N never had a chance," I whispered, the rage bubbling up inside me again.

"Quit interfering," Vergo growled, launching himself at me once more.

I met his attack head-on, my foot connecting with his body in a powerful kick. But suddenly, I felt a sharp crack in my leg. "Crap," I hissed, quickly dodging Vergo’s relentless assault, evading each of his strikes by mere inches.

"Black-Leg, the door is closing fast! Get out of there!" one of the Marines shouted, panic in his voice.

I managed to break away from Vergo just in time, but not before noticing some of the Marines lying motionless on the ground. "Crap!" I cursed, rushing over to them. "Hey! Stay with me!"

Just then, an announcement blared over the speakers, "Law made it to the factory room! The traitor Trafalgar Law made it to the factory room!" The announcement cut off as the door closed, trapping the gas inside.

I barely managed to escape with the two Marine officers in tow, leaping into the air and calling down, "Hey! Everyone made it!" I said, my tone lighter as I spotted Tashigi. "Especially you, Tashigi!" I added, with a bit of a flirtatious edge.

"Keep kicking ass, Black-Leg! Yeah, you rock!" the G-5 Marines cheered.

"I don’t care about you!" I shot back, dropping the two Marines unceremoniously on the ground. "Ladies only!"

One of the soldiers, his tone concerned, offered, "We could give you first aid if you need it?"

"Shut up! If it’s not a thank-you kiss from your captain, I don’t want to hear it!" I retorted, lighting a cigarette with a flick of my lighter. As I exhaled, I muttered to myself, "I got lucky—that kick could have destroyed me." My mind wandered back to Y/N. "That’s the same armament Haki that injured Y/N’s right leg."

Turning to the Marines, I noticed one of them pale and trembling. "Well, I never met the guy, but he turned pale and ran off. Besides, he’s got hell to pay after what he did to my Y/N."

"Anyway, we should get moving," I continued, my tone shifting back to urgency. "We have to save those kids."

And with that, Tashigi, the G-5 men, and I began running, determined to find the children and make it out of this hellhole alive.

Doflamingo POV…

"So, Law is going after SAD," I said, hearing the news from my transponder snail.

"With this development, there's no doubt he has betrayed us," said Vergo.

"I see," I replied, laughing at the whole scheme. "Well, can't say I'm shocked, but that's some gratitude. Treated him like a brother, and this is the thanks I get," I said, lounging on my sofa. "He made it to the manufacturing room, Vergo?"

"Yes, sir."

"He's also fancied a girl here, a 'princess,' if you will," said Vergo.

"Is that so?" I muttered, intrigue sparking within me.

"She's quite a fighter, and she's feisty as hell," Vergo whistled. "I still regret not taking her to a room alone."

Just then, Baby 5 came crashing through the window, glass shattering around her. She stood in front of me, gun pointed directly at my chest, tears welling in her eyes.

"I’ve heard rumors about a 'Princess'... Is she the one who’s captured his heart? Tell me, Doffy! Says Baby 5. Baby 5 cried, her voice trembling as she lowered the gun slightly.

I ignored her cries, dismissing her completely as I turned back to Vergo. "Misfortune never comes alone," I mused, a wicked grin spreading across my face. "Then his misfortune will be my doing."

I threw my head back and laughed, the sound echoing through the room as Baby 5 stood there, torn between anger and sorrow. I could feel her desperation, but it was irrelevant to me. Law had crossed a line, and if he thought he could get away unscathed, he was more of a fool than I imagined.

Y/N POV… 

"You know, this dragon doesn’t seem like a runt at all," says Zoro, now lying beside me. Turns out the dragon from before—yeah, it was drugged up, and now the effects have worn off, revealing its true potential.

"Indeed," I replied to Zoro, watching the dragon’s fierce movements.

"Will you two quit it and do something!" Usopp shouted, desperate as the dragon breathed fire dangerously close to us.

"Can’t, I’m on watch duty," Zoro said, casually pointing at me.

"And I’m trying to recover," I added with a smirk.

"You're not helping, Y/N!" Usopp exclaimed, his voice a mix of frustration and fear. I couldn’t help but laugh at the absurdity of the situation.

"Fear not, my friends! I have a score to settle with this dragon, and I shall protect you!" declared the samurai—Kin’emon, as I had learned his name. "By the might of my sword, this dragon shall be vanquished!"

"Not so fast!" interrupted Brook, stepping forward with his sword drawn. "This dragon and I also have a score to settle!"

"Ohhh, are we getting a show too?" I teased, leaning back slightly. "This is when snacks would have come in handy."

"And booze," Zoro agreed, a glint of amusement in his eyes.

The tension in the air was palpable, but amidst it all, I couldn’t help but chuckle at our little group’s dynamic. The dragon roared again, and while the others prepared to fight, Zoro and I simply exchanged a knowing glance, savoring the chaotic yet oddly familiar atmosphere.

"But, Brook, you just met the dragon today?" I said, raising an eyebrow.

"True," Brook admitted, "but it looked like it was going to eat me! Then it turned away like I was some bag of bones! It’s accurate, but still hurts!"

"There, there, pal, it's okay," Usopp said, trying to comfort Brook from the sting of the dragon's rejection, patting him on the back as Brook sniffled dramatically.

The sight of Usopp consoling a skeleton about being rejected by a dragon was too much, and I couldn’t help but burst out laughing. Even Zoro let out a low chuckle beside me, the absurdity of the situation taking the edge off the tension.

"Only us," I muttered, shaking my head as the samurai and Brook readied themselves for their showdown with the dragon. "Only us."

Just then, Nami released her Thunder Trap, shocking the dragon with a powerful jolt of electricity. The dragon roared in pain, and neither Kin'emon nor Brook managed to vanquish the beast.

"Well done, breast band girl! You're skilled in the ninja arts, I see," said Kin'emon, nodding approvingly.

Turning towards Kin'emon, I clenched my right hand, a surge of protective anger welling up inside me. "Nami, want me to—"

"No, Y/N, it’s okay," Nami interjected, her voice calm and reassuring.

I slowly unclenched my hand, taking a deep breath to steady myself. Just then, Usopp stepped forward, launching his Special Attack: Raposa. The dragon’s senses were disoriented as the attack hit, causing it to thrash about in confusion.

"What?! The long-nose man can conjure sorcery too?" Kin'emon exclaimed in amazement.

"What did you call me?!" Usopp shouted back, indignant at the "long-nose" remark.

Then Robin joined the fray, her calm voice cutting through the chaos. "Cien Fleur: Quatro Mano, Hold." Giant hands sprouted from the ground, grabbing hold of the dragon and forcing it down.

"Are you all powerful ninjas?" Kin'emon gasped, running forward with Brook, both eager to finally vanquish the dragon.

Zoro and I exchanged a look, stifling our laughter as the scene unfolded.

[samptlay]

To My Sweetheart Who Carries A Wounded Heart Ch. 8

A/N: February 29... It's been more than two weeks, my apologies... But enjoy, btw I'm uploading 9 & 10 today.

~

Series Masterlist, Chapter 1 🤍, Chapter 2 🖤, Chapter 3 🤍, Chapter 4🖤, Chapter 5🤍, Chapter 6🖤, Chapter 7🤍, Blade & Reader's Relationship,

Taking a deep breath in and out, you make a beeline out of the guest bedroom and make your way towards the kitchen. At this point, you've lost your appetite and don't feel like eating.

You're not eating for two any longer either way, so the only person you're harming is yourself. Who cares?

Deciding that coffee is enough to satisfy your needs, you open your phone to find no new notifications, (from other human beings, not some Pinterest board of house decor) which makes you both relieved and irritated. At this time of the day, March and Stelle would be bantering or debating on some random political topic in your group chat (including Himeko, Welt & Dan Heng) that you would jump in on for fun. It was oddly quiet today, and you were glad that they were taking into account the loss of life, yet conflicted about the change.

It wasn't routine. It was change, something you suddenly weren't accustomed to yesterday night. You physically shiver at the thought of everything that’s happened. You felt the same way when you woke up alone today, but you’ll get over it. Speaking of alone, you still have no idea where your husband is. You trust him, but did he have to leave without any notice? You gave him a call, but after two rings it went to voicemail, Opening Messages, you click on “Dearest💙” and write a text.

(Y/N) ❤ Honey, where are you? I went to the guest room and found the bed empty, I was hoping we could make breakfast together this morning. Call me when you can. I’m sure there’s a lot of things on our minds but we’ll be okay.

Well, it was delivered, so you know it went through. But after sitting in silence for a few minutes, which turned into ten, you wondered if it did. It wasn’t like him to take long to respond to you, especially since he’s been all over his phone for the past 6 weeks. Protective as well, he even changed the password on it without telling you. You’d leave the memories of confrontations in the past since thinking about them is what caused all this to happen. But you’ll inevitably think of them again.

The silence takes you back to a conversation with Himeko around two weeks ago when she invited you over for afternoon tea (or coffee). It was a rainy day and the breeze was chilly, so what better thing to do but have a friend over to talk to while enjoying the beautiful scenery outside? She could tell there was lots on your mind, so she decided you needed a small break from your husband and his shenanigans.

During this relaxing afternoon, it suddenly turned sour whenever she mentioned that you had seemed more on edge lately. It was likely because he was at home more frequently, caused by a catastrophic event at his workplace he refuses to tell you about. According to him, HR was sticking their noses into something that shouldn’t have concerned them, and since he worked with computers he was sent home with his stuff to work from there.

You didn’t want to seem pushy or disrespect his boundaries since the matter seemed personal to him, so you didn’t pry further. Himeko was intrigued by this and looked a bit taken aback, since you were his wife, exactly what boundaries were there that would be crossed by asking a simple question? She found this suspicious, which rubbed you the wrong way and caused you to become defensive. He was your husband, you trusted him more than anything and she was his friend as well, so why would anything be said by her that painted him in a bad way?

Irritated, you stormed out of her penthouse and made your way down with Himeko calling out to you. She had meant no harm and was only trying to look out for you, but you were too caught up in your own head to see that. However, later that evening you gave her a call pleading for forgiveness & blaming it on the pregnancy. She knew you wouldn’t usually react that way if she had advised you of something similar, so she wasn’t upset with you at all. She even apologized for doubting Levi. You two quickly made amends and all was forgotten, but the conversation still replayed in the back of your mind occasionally.

You were sad to admit you felt rather lonely and were left alone with your thoughts. Looking out the window, and bringing your mug to your mouth your mind trails off into a place you don’t want it to be. You’re in desperate need of a distraction, and you want to distract yourself with someone else. You could be entertained together, shut away from the rest of the world.

Picking up your phone again, you scroll through your favorite contacts until you come across the one name that always made you smile.

‘Ren🥀🖤’

What better way to get away from it all than to spend your time with the person associated with the one thing you knew would never change?

His stance by your side.

~

Taglist: @uhfhfhfhf @xdrin @msun1c0rn @lovingnahida @strrawb3rrysh0rtcak3 @ssecylia @skyl8ver @immahuman @meowmeowraven @01234 @markexplanation @esthelily @dawnofazrael

Borders by @cafekitsune

[coquitokisses]

Trusting Again | Bucky Barnes (introduction)

series masterlist • m. masterlist

spotify playlist • moodboards • files

After having spent much of her childhood being trained in a private organization in Bulgaria, Catalina Navarro is finally free when she is rescued by Nick Fury during a SHIELD mission.

Nick took the responsibility of taking care of Catalina and thus preventing her from falling into the adoption system. He saw how much potential she had and as she got older, he thought that she could use everything she knew for good so at the age of 16, he decided to get her into SHIELD and since then she has worked for the organization as an agent and spy.

In 2014, Catalina witnessed the Winter Soldier event in Washington DC. A few months after all the files, from both SHIELD and HYDRA, went public, Catalina decides to help Steve and Sam find Bucky.

But when she finds him, instead of bringing him with her, she decides to let him go. An action that will have consequences later on..

A/n: hiiii! I have a few things I wanna clarify before starting the story

— I said it before but I’ll say it again, this story is 18+, it contains strong language, explicit and/or implicit sexual scenes, topics like mental and/or psychological health and PTSD.

— The story takes place during Captain America: Civil War, but there'll be a prologue which is set in 2015 just to give a little context of the story between Cat and Bucky. Then it’ll go along with the MCU timeline, although the story will be one year ahead (for example, Infinity War happens in 2019, not 2018, but everything will happen according to the timeline)

— I'm planning on following the order of the rest of the movies probably till Avengers Endgame (if things go how I've planned) maybe till TFATWS but I’m not sure yet, however, there may be some changes to the storylines of the movies just so I can introduce Catalina's character into the story.

— My first language is not English, is Spanish. I am bilingual, even tho I don't really talk in English just because I really don't need to, but I wanted to make this story in English. In case there's any errors/mistakes well now y'all know lol my brain process things in Spanish first and then translates them to English.

— This story is available on wattpad as well, (even tho I don’t really use that account much, the user is -dolcekisses) but I’m also uploading it in spanish in case anyone wants to read it, my user is coquitokisses (same as here lol) and the account is in spanish if any of y’all are spanish speakers.

— Also, I don’t know how many chapters this story will have lol (with everything I have written, notes etc, I think maybe like 55-65? I’m not sure, is that a lot? Lmao I’ll just go with the flow)

— When I started the story I started writing it in 1st person (my oc’s pov) but I actually write my stories in 3rd person now so there’ll probably be some times where it’s narrated in 1st person and some other times in 3rd. Sorry about that lol

— I chose Eva de Dominici to be the face claim of Catalina Navarro (my oc)

That'll be all, besties, I hope you like this fanfic as much as I do, let me know what y'all think, feel free to comment your opinion! Feedback will be appreciated <3

I'll see you in the prologue!

Likes and reblogs will be appreciated!

[dwaekkicidal]

next uploads poll <3

its that time againnn

im currently focused on catching up with old asks + getting txt stuff put out, but now that kinktober is finished i want to know what things you would like next?

read under the cut if you want more info/sneak peaks about the chapters :3 I'll be posting in the order of most votes -> least votes.

sharing is caring masterlist

i have a lot of chapters for this series for some reason, but its basically just my excuse to write poly ot8 x reader with some mxm here and there so,,, lol. anyway...

mxm chapter: ChanLix :3 and then once i end up writing the ot8 x reader ill probably write a mini chapter of chan x sunshine twins hehe

x reader chapters: i want to write the ot8 chapter, but i want it to have a chapter before that so either Han & Jeongin x reader OR Jeongin & Lix x reader

incidents masterlist

the next chapter is a lot of buildup/lore for the series, and then i was gonna do 1 final chapter to finish things off.

i WAS thinking about doing spinoffs/writing little drabbles here and there about their relationship after the series is done, but that will be later on

third choice is a given :3 the screenshots below are the main asks im working on, but i have a few more that im willing to write but will come later. once i clear them all out, my asks will open again!

;;

[ageofbajabule]

Dear Patience | Part One

Jake Kiszka x F! Reader

Warnings: 18+ MINORS DNI! Angst, Alcohol consumption, vulgarity.

Word Count: 2k

Had to re upload because tumblr hates me.

Summary: Jake and you have never liked one another. And over the years you start to realize maybe there are potentially feelings. Or if it is all in your head. This takes setting in 2019. The series might have some time jumps so bare with me. I promise it will make sense later on as the story progresses.

Author’s Note: Hello!! Welcome to the first part of the series. This is my first series that I have committed to. And to say i'm nervous of the outcome is an understatement. I really do hope you enjoy this series that I have started. I did create a playlist for this series. And I will continue to add music to it as I write. <3

Masterlist for Dear Patience

General Masterlist

Apple Music Playlist

Spotify Playlist

“Gosh you really are a dick. You do know that right?” You spat at Jake. “Well you’re quite a bitch if I say so myself darlin.” Jake gritted through his teeth. You felt the tears welled up, “You such an ass…” You started to storm off, hearing his feet catch up behind you. Jake grabbed your arm, spinning you around to face him. “Don’t get any ideas…” He looked you up and down, licking his lips.

—

You weren’t quite sure when it all started, but you and Jacob didn’t get along. In fact you despise one another. You had grown up with the guys of Greta Van Fleet, you were best friends with Sam and Danny. Considering you were in the same graduating class as them. But you had always been around for all the family trips and small shows supporting their band from the very beginning.

Sam, yourself and Danny always were getting into shit together. Whether it was good or bad, you always made the most of everything. 

“Sam! Come on, I don’t want to be late for the show.” You stood at the bottom of the staircase with Danny waiting. “He always does this…” Danny chuckled, “I’m gonna start the car while you wait for Sam.” Danny smiled, leaving to head out. You nodded and decided to look around the hallway seeing all the pictures of the Kiszka family. There was one you came across of the three of them. It was around the time the twins graduated high school, it was a small family vacation they went on. Josh and Jake standing on either side of Sam, making silly faces. You giggled to yourself about the picture, thinking back to when you, Sam and Danny graduated. You were suddenly interrupted from your thoughts.

“What are you doing here?” Jake scoffed at you, you turned around to face him. “Waiting on the princess to come out of her tower. Why else would I be here?” You crossed your arms. “Well you sure as hell wouldn’t be here for me darlin. If it were up to me, you wouldn’t even be here at all…” He smirked. “You know-“ You were cut off by Sam coming downstairs, “Hey what’s all this chit chat about?” He smiled, “Nothing.” You and Jake said in unison. “Alright… Well let’s go then.” You nodded and left the house with Sam. 

Once you got into the car you decided to sit in the back letting Sam have shotgun and Danny driving. “So Y/N what was that whole encounter about?” Sam picked at you, you rolled your eyes hoping he wouldn’t have bothered on the topic. “You know how Jake is whenever I’m around… It’s like walking on eggshells. Don’t know what I ever did to him to deserve that type of treatment…” You stared out the window. “He just has a stick up his ass is all. If you really got to know him, he really is a good guy.” Sam shot a smile at you, you nodded your head just to try and pull away from the conversation.

The car ride to the small show you were all attending, consisted of laughs, singing and bullshitting. Danny and Sam got into a small little argument over who was the better driver, causing them to bring you into it. Rather than stating who was the better driver you just butted in saying it was you causing more chaos. “Guys! We have better things to worry about than who drives better.” You giggled, “And besides we’re here.” Danny parked the vehicle as you all got out and headed inside to Fischer Hall. “So are we still going to that party later tonight?” Danny had asked the two of you, Sam and yourself, nodding. “Yeah! I plan on getting fucked up tonight.” You giggled. 

The small show that was taking place at Fischer Hall was fun. Yourself and the guys always loved supporting small upcoming bands, and took it upon yourselves to be at almost every show held here when the guys were home. “Man, that was incredible. Their talent was just amazing, bringing back memories of when we used to play here…” Sam smiled as you all headed out. “So where’s the party again?” You looked over at the guys as you walked towards the car. “I think Patrick’s throwing it tonight.” Danny responded you nodded and hopped into the vehicle taking shotgun this time. “Hey!” Sam yelled then got in the backseat. “It’s only fair I get it.” You stuck your tongue out at him. 

After what seemed like an hour drive, it was really only 15 minutes. You arrived at your guy's destination. The whole street and driveway of the house was filled with cars, making it known that the party had a massive amount of people in it. Danny, Sam and yourself got out of the car walking up to the house. Greeted by familiar faces heading into the house. “What did he invite the whole neighborhood…” You giggled at the guys. “It sure seems like it. But I’m gonna grab myself a drink, you want one?” Sam asked you, and you nodded following him to the kitchen. 

The walk over you could see the bodies of people dancing, playing beer pong and simply getting trashed all throughout the house. Finally making it to the kitchen Sam starts to make you one of your favorite drinks, and then makes his right after. Danny had grabbed a beer from the cooler, “I think Jake and Josh should be arriving soon.” Danny yelled over the loud music, you made a half smile. You got along with Josh, it was just Jake…“That’s lovely.” You said under your breath, Sam then put your drink in front of your face. “Drink up, and ignore him tonight.” He smiled, making a toast between the three of you. “To friendship, I don’t know what I’d do without you guys.” Sam raised his cup toasting with you and Danny. “To friendship.” Danny and you said in unison.

Shortly after you heard everyone making a commotion as Jake and Josh entered the house, making you wander off to the back yard. You didn’t really want to be bothered by Jake, or be in his presence. You sat by the pool taking your shoes off letting your feet in the water. You heard footsteps coming your way and decided to look and see who it was. 

“Hey Josh.” You smiled softly, he smiled and sat beside you. “Hey Y/N. What are you doing out here?” He chuckled softly sipping on his beer. “Was a bit crowded there… I’ll be in shortly.” You smiled, but it wasn’t convincing enough for Josh. You both knew, “Y/N I know you’re not happy Jake is here. But please come inside and join us… I need my pong partner there!” He wrapped his one arm around you squeezing you softly. You giggled, you could never argue with Josh. He knew how to convince anyone. It was as if he casted a magic spell. “Fine… But the minute Jake starts his shit. I’m not holding back Josh.” You took your feet out of the pool, drying them off before putting your shoes back on.

Josh smiled brightly showing his little gap in the front of his teeth. “Come on.” You started to walk towards the house with Josh following behind. You grabbed another drink before meeting Josh at the pong table. “So who's our opponent?” You took a sip of your drink, “Danny and J-jake…” Josh scratched the back of his head. “Josh.” You gave him wide eyes, “Why would you…” “Please! Just one game?” He gave you puppy eyes, “Fine. Just this once.”

Jake and Danny stood at the other end of the table. Danny shot a smile at you, and you just flashed a half convincing smile back. Then Jake’s eye’s met with yours, it was like they were burning into the back of your head. Why did he have to be here? Maybe I should’ve just stayed home.

“Shall we get started?” Jake spoke, grabbing the two pong balls and handing one to Danny. You and Josh nodded and the game started. Every game you have ever played in the past, you always won. Josh was always your partner in pong at parties, since Sam was too fucked up by the time you started to play. But tonight the game wasn’t going in your favor. 

“Josh, my game is off tonight…” You groaned as you took a break from the game to get drinks. “Is it because of Jake?” He looked at you, taking a sip of his drink. “Maybe… But normally any other time I’ve gone against him this has never happened.” You took a sip of your drink, “Perhaps something is in the air then? Maybe luck isn’t on our side tonight.” He shrugged, “It’s fine though. It’s only a game.” He tried to reassure you. “Yeah, a game that Jake probably won’t let down.” You started to head back to the pong table. 

Once back at the table you were greeted by Jake smirking at you. What could he possibly be smirking about? Any other time he has a disgusted look on his face when I’m around. “Someone slip something in your drink there, Kiszka.” You giggled to yourself, “No. Just ready to finally kick your ass in pong…” You shook your head, “We’ll see about that.” Danny came back finally and you guys had resumed your game. Jake stealing glances from you making you miss your shots.

“Fuck!” You missed the last cup, it was a close game. Both teams on their last cup. If Jake made the shot, it was game over. Josh rubbed your back in hopes of Jake potentially missing his shot. And of course, Jake made the shot making him and Danny the champions. “Fuck yeah!” Jake jumped and hugged Danny. “Good game.” He smirked at you, you gave a fake smile. “Good game.” You then walked off to the kitchen to take shots. You didn’t care now. You just wanted some alcohol in your system. 

After a couple shots and drinks you were definitely not tipsy. You were past that, you made your way to the main living area where everyone was dancing. Deciding to join some friends you started to dance, letting everything go. You weren’t paying attention to your surroundings, that’s when you felt someone's hands on your hips. You giggled and started to go with the flow, dancing against their body. His body started to move with yours and you started to grind against him. “Well, well… This is definitely a surprise.” He chuckled softly. That’s when you froze up, “J-jake…” You stopped dancing, moving away, turning around to face him. “In the flesh.” He smirked, he was definitely drunk, you could smell the liquor from his lips. “Why’d you stop darlin?” He smiled softly, “Because, this. This can’t happen between us…” You looked at him. 

“Who's to say that this would be anything more…” He slurred, “Jake you’re drunk. Just go.” You walked away, “Fucking tease.” You stopped in your tracks. “What did you say?” He smirked at you, “You heard me.” You bit your lip, walking up to Jake pushing him. “Don’t ever call me that.” You gritted through your teeth. “Woah, I guess I pissed somebody off.” He started laughing. “Gosh you really are a dick. You do know that right?” You spat at Jake. “Well you’re quite a bitch if I say so myself darlin.” Jake gritted through his teeth. You felt the tears welled up, “You such an ass…” You started to storm off, hearing his feet catch up behind you. Jake grabbed your arm, spinning you around to face him. “Don’t get any ideas…” He looked you up and down, licking his lips. 

You looked at his lips then his face. That’s when your lips met his. He wrapped his hands around your waist pulling you closer. As you wrapped your hands around his neck, you licked his bottom lip gaining access rather quickly, that is until you suddenly stopped. Moving away from Jake, “I’m sorry… I can’t do this.” You started to walk towards the nearest bathroom. “Y/N! Wait!” Jake yelled after you, but you closed the door and locked yourself in the bathroom.

[naturaldreamer]

Undertale x Reader Content (ON HIATUS!)

Greetings everyone! My name's Dreamer, but you can also call me Star! I've gathered some courage to do something like this and I've been a fan of Undertale for a long time, so I figured I get back into writing. Here are some rules to get started with and characters I'm willing to write at this time. More characters will be added the more comfortable I am with writing, especially with getting a handle on some of the characters.

I've cleared out old requests from the last time I did this, so my apologies for that. Also, please have an age in your bio or else you will be blocked. You need to be 18+ to follow this blog.

Rules to Follow Before Requesting

1) I will only do Undertale x Reader fanfic/scenarios/headcanons/imagine. No OC's or Canon x Canon. I might make an exception for an OC, but it will more than likely be for a special occasion such as reaching a goal on my blog or something. Other than that, if it's not Undertale x Reader request, the message will be deleted.

2) When you do make a request, please be specific on what you want. If the message is, for example, just “Sans x Reader please!” with nothing else added, it'll be deleted. You gotta give me something, my little readers.

3) Please only request 2 characters at a time when it comes to your request. Any more and I'll only do the first two. You'll have to request again for the rest of the characters.

4) I will accept a bit of smutty requests, but please keep it tame. Nothing too crazy, my little readers, since there are young people using the site. When I do the request, I'll put a 18+ on it, put it under “Read More” and I'll ONLY accept the request from someone who is 18+. If the age isn't showing on your blog when you make a request, then I will delete it. Also, if the sexual request makes me uncomfortable, then I'll delete that as well.

5) I'll write Fluff, Comfort and Angst. The angst might be a bit severe or tame depending on my mood, so you've been warned. I will put triggers on the post just in case and put it under “Read More” if it's a bit intense. If there's a trigger I missed, please let me know immediately so I can add to the post.

6) No Sancest, Papyrus Incest, Yandere, or Underage requests, please. I have nothing against the first two, but it's not something I'm comfortable writing.

7) Please be kind and patient to me along with other readers. I want this to be a safe space for you guys and to myself when it comes to my writing. I haven't written anything in a while, so I'm going to be rusty. I also have a life outside of the internet, so I'm not always here or have time to sit down to write right away. Thank you for understanding. ♥

8) All and all... Let's have fun with this! ♥

Characters I'm willing to write for at this time (More will be added later on):

Nightmare, Killer, Dust, Cross, Horror, and Error. So, the Bad Sans'. XDDD

Edit: I started uploading videos on YouTube of my past VTuber, who was in a Halloween costume, playing Undertale. Here's the start of the series. Enjoy~! ♥ [First Part] (I'm going to update this at a later time since I'm done with the series on YouTube.)

MASTERLIST

*Sans

Sans x Reader Cuddle

*Error

Error x Reader Angst

Headcanons

*Nightmare

Headcanon #1

Don't Imagine #1

Don't Imagine #2

Don't Imagine #3

*Killer

Headcanon #1

Headcanon #2

Don't Imagine #1

Don't Imagine #2

*Cross

Headcanons

Don't Imagine #1

*Dust

Don't Imagine #1

Don't Imagine #2

Don't Imagine #3

*Horror

Don't Imagine #1

Don't Imagine #2

*Dream

Don't Imagine #1

Don't Imagine #2

Don't Imagine #3

*Bonus Headcanons

Lust Sans Headcanon #1

Also, if you're curious about how I am as a VTuber/Streamer, here's a link to my Twitch! I don't have much of a schedule, but I stream mainly in the afternoons and/or at night. ♥ I have a Twitter as well if you guys want to look into that!

[tkwrites]

I had come across some of your snapshots randomly but have now found your masterlist and omg 😍 you are so talented ❤️

I love how you incorporate high amounts of emotion and have some real serious pieces 🥹

How do you figure out what to write next? And how do you manage to upload such high quality content? Do you dot point how you want the storyline to go before you start and then go back to add in all the little details or do you just let your beautiful brain flow and it comes together?

I use to write a lot when I was younger but get way too stuck in my own head and struggle to fix it once I'm not sure. Idk if that makes sense? Do you ever get your friends to read over it and give feedback? I feel like a burden asking them to read over it, especially larger pieces. Do you ever feel you need others input first? Any tips on how to feel more confident in my own writing? 🩷

First of all, ­😭

What a gift of a note this is! It came through and I nearly burst into tears. Thank you for your very kind words. 

I've always been fascinated with how people feel and relate to each other - it's the main reason I started writing - so that highly emotional content comes from that, I think. I'm so glad others enjoy it, too.

I've answered your questions about writing below as I don't want to take over anyone's feed and this got REAL long real fast. 

Because I write this series out of order, I just keep ideas open all the time. I currently have 21 Sanpshots in progress. Some of those will be sunk into each other, but as of right now, there are 21 ideas. I basically write what I feel inspired to, and what gets published next is usually what’s been pulling most of my attention. 

The quality content thing is interesting because I don’t always think all the Snapshots are high quality. I felt really nervous about Before I meet your Parents, I’ll be proud for you, and Sarah meets the parents, and I was convinced all three would flop when I published them. Are they my strongest works? Certainly not. Are they well liked? It seems so. So it just goes to show that we’re all our own worst critic. 

That said, I have been writing for a long time and understand my style (for the most part), so that makes it easier to trust my own writing. I did an exercise about 8 years ago where I kept a blog in which I wrote or edited 1,000 words of fiction 6 days a week for a year. This was a bit of an extreme exercise and won’t be for everyone, but I credit that, more than anything else, to the improvement in my writing. Practice makes perfect, even in the realm of the arts. And if you can practice every day, that’s even better. 

Generally, I’m working on 3 or 4 Snapshots at a time, but they rotate pretty consistently. When I’m near finishing one, I will concentrate on that one for a week or two, however long it takes to get it written and up to standard. 

Most Snapshots and other fics start with an idea. Some start with the beginnings of a scene. Shoot the Moon, for example, started because I wanted to write a more realistic sex scene that included 2 elements: 1. “I don't care if you swallow. I don't really even mind not coming in your mouth, that was just a heat of the moment thing. Thanks for letting me anyway.” And 2. “I want you so bad,” he whimpered, “but I’m so tired, I don't think I can keep it up.” 

So I usually start with an idea and then build around it. Eventually, a loose plot comes into focus, and I’ll concentrate on that for a while. Every once in a while, when I feel really stuck with a piece, I won’t necessarily write down a plot, but I will write down actions that need to happen in order to move the story forward. Some details come as I’m writing, and some are added later. Word smithing takes more time, so that usually, but not always, comes after the plot is established, and I can concentrate on the writing itself. 

It’s so easy to get stuck in your own head. Writing every day can help with that. Also, I’ve had to fight to get to a point where I realized I’m writing mostly for myself and a little bit for everyone else. If you love it, there’s a big chance someone else will, too. That said, I still get stuck in my own head sometimes, and it’s something you just have to learn to push through. Usually, if you keep writing, it will sort itself out. Other times, if you give it space and come back to it, the way to fix it will sometimes jump out. 

I do ask friends for help and feedback! In fact, I had someone read over the girlfriend scene in Good For You because the first iteration of it was very, very flat. I knew it was, but didn’t know how to fix it. She read it over and gave me a few suggestions that really helped. 

I’ve found that I think I’m far more of a burden than my friends ever feel like I am. Usually when I ask, friends are happy to read through my writing. After a while, you’ll discover who gives good feedback and who doesn’t. And unless your friends are telling you that they’re too busy, or they don’t want to read your work, they’re likely not feeling that it’s a burden. It’s their responsibility to tell you if they’re upset or burdened. If they’re not telling you that, it’s likely that they’re not feeling that way. That was one of the hardest but most valuable lessons I’ve learned in therapy. 

Sometimes, I need feedback, and sometimes I don’t. I usually need it if I find I’m writing myself in circles, or something feels off, but I can’t pinpoint why exactly. 

I always read my writing out loud to myself. It’s very easy to pinpoint stuff that’s off or not natural or out of rhythm when you hear it out loud.

The best advice I can give is to write and then write some more. The more you practice, the better you’ll become. They say you have to write 1,000,000 words before you’ll write your first real one, and I think that holds true. As you spend more time writing, you’ll find your style and find your rhythm, and learn to trust yourself a little more. 

I hope this helps. I’m sorry it got to be so, so, so long! 

[americaswritings]

In the dark I will call your name | chapter 8

Warnings (for the whole series): angst, talk of depression, trauma, nightmares, violence, mentions of blood, language, lots of emotions  

Summary: You could never tell them the truth about who you were, what you had done, the demons that were haunting you. So you buried it deep inside of you, swearing to take the secret to the grave with you. Then the nightmares start, the headaches, the simple drop of red confirming your fate. Vecna knows the truth, feels you suffering. Can you escape his curse?  

Words: 2.7k

Pairing: Steve Harrington x reader

A/N: Only one week until my vacation yay ^^ Also the miniseries with Steve x Billy’s sister!reader is going very well. I am currently writing the second part (out of 3). Once I finished the whole series and read over it I am going to upload it! I hope you’re still enjoying this story! Only 2 more chapters to go :)

Add yourself to my taglist!

Masterlist  | Series Masterlist  |  Playlist    

Chapter 8: The world was on fire and no one could save me but you.

So this was how it would end.

But as you closed your eyes for the final time, you thought back to Steve’s words. 

“I just found you. I can’t lose you now.”

His fingers in your hair playing softly with a loose strand. His arms around your body, keeping you safe. His eyes meeting yours, pleading you to fight.

He cared.

Maybe you should have told him the truth. You trusted him, yet you had never found the courage to confess everything to him. 

Perhaps because there was no going back. No way to make the words unsaid after you had admitted them. And you were afraid he would never look at you the same way. Never see you the same way he did now.

An image of El filled your mind, but this time she wasn’t covered in blood and staring at you with an expression of betrayal. She was wearing a colourful jumpsuit, her hair pulled up with one of the scrunchies you had given her. She was standing in front of a big mirror at the mall, and you were placing a ridiculous looking hat on her head. A second later she burst out laughing and you joined in.

The image faded and you saw a flash of red hair. Max. Jumping off her skateboard she grinned at you, trying to look nonchalant, but you could see pride in her eyes. “I need you to hold my hand. I’m not kidding”, you heard your own voice, seeing your past self-climbing hesitantly onto the board. 

You practically clawed at Max hand, but she laughed about it and after a few seconds you relaxed your grip a little, casting a proud expression towards the girl. “I told you you would be a natural”, she said, and the image faded just before you had face planted with the board and sworn off Max teaching you to skate.

You opened your eyes. Vecna’s claw was only inches away from your face. You could barely see anything but him. Gazing between his fingers you tried to focus on what you could make out.

Your floating body. Your friends.

They hadn’t left your side and even though it was impossible to see their faces, you knew they were scared for you. Desperate to get you back. If you listened closely, you could still hear their distinctive yells, your name being called over and over again.

Your mind flashed back to another memory. You were draped over Nancy’s bed, your feet hovering in the air as the two of you skimmed through magazines. “I bet this would look cute on you”, she told you, pointing towards an elegant evening gown. “It looks expensive”, you murmured, and she nudged you with her shoulder. “Steve would lose his mind if he saw you in that.” She waggled her eyebrows at you as you let out a gasp. “You know, I always wanted a friend to talk about fashion and boys with.” 

It evaporated into a few other scenes, moments you spend with your friends, laughing and having fun. Being young and free. Not carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders for a while. 

You could see Robin making a sound that was a mix between a laugh and a snort as she threw popcorn at you in the cinema and got it right down your cleavage. The boys gesturing you close to present their new science project to you. 

Max and you sneaking out at night, sitting on one of the rusty swings at the trailer park, talking. The two of you getting caught in heavy rain, sprinting through it hand in hand while soaking to the bone and laughing about the absurdity of it. Braiding El’s hair. Sleepovers at Nancy’s house. Steve throwing you into his pool fully clothed. The expression on his face after your first kiss. 

You could feel Vecna’s claw tracing over your face, pulling it up so you couldn’t see the window any longer. But there was still the music in your ears, the melody that was so familiar to you because you had listened to it over and over again.

It was your favorite song. The first song Steve had played when you were in the car with him on the way to your first date. He had sung along to it, and you had looked at him, puzzled but amused. Since then you always joined in when he played it, singing your heart out and laughing at each other. 

It reminded you of good times. The beginning of a better life.

All of this for what? To die a lonely death under Vecna’s claws? Only because you had kept the secret that made your heart heavy to yourself, too afraid to open up to the people that knew you best? 

They had been there all along, ever since the day you had stumbled upon them and the secret they were sharing. That the upside down was real. That monsters existed. That kids could have superpowers and shadows could come to life. 

In a way you were all connected to each other through it. Through the shared secret. Why did you fear your own so much?

“No”, you whispered, your eyes shooting back open. There had to be a way. As if the music had brought you back to yourself, reminded you of all the good in your life, you felt your determination return. And with it a newfound strength.

If there was a window, there had to be a way to get out of here and return to the real world. You had to try.

With all of your strength you ripped apart your wrists, lashing at Vecna. He flinched, trying to grow back some of the tentacles you had destroyed, but you used the time to duck away and push past him.

You could hear a grunt, but you didn’t turn. You couldn’t look back. All you could do was run. Run even though your legs were burning, and your lungs were on fire. Run through the red mist towards the bright portal in front of you. 

You saw something rushing towards you and you looked up to see a stone falling from the sky. It hit the ground right beside your feet sending you tumbling to the ground. 

Your trousers were covered in red, blood you realized, but you got back up. With your pants now soaking it was much harder to remain on steady feet and you kept on tripping on the now slippery ground. Every few seconds you could hear an explosion, remains of the house you had seen floating in the air early now falling from the sky to your left and ride. 

You ducked, dodging the stones that threatened to hit you, your eyes focused on the portal. The silhouettes had grown sharper now and bigger, their voices and the music louder in your ears.

With a final breath you reached out towards it, closing your eyes as you felt your body being swept away.

    -

(Y/n)?” Steve leaned away, his eyes flickering over your stiff body. “(Y/n)?! Please say something! Look at me!”, he pleaded, but your eyes were unfocused, filled with white like a cloudy sky. He took another step back, dread filling him as he felt his heart speed up. 

Placing his hand on each of your shoulders he shook you, more violently with each passing second you didn’t move. “(Y/n) wake up, please!” But you showed no reaction to his words. 

Desperately he turned towards the car where he knew the kids were waiting. “Guys!”, he yelled, waving frantically at them before turning back to you. “Wake up please! Come on, wake up!”

But you were gone.

Just a moment ago you had been here, smiling at him, kissing him and now your body was only an empty shallow. “Shit, shit, shit!” Dustin had scrambled up next to him, the radio in hand. “How long has she been like this?”, he questioned, his voice high pitched. 

“Just a moment ago she was fine!” Steve ran a hand through his hair before continuing to shake you. “Wake up, (y/n)! Wake up!” But deeply inside of him he knew it was useless. “Call Nancy and Robin!”, he yelled at Dustin, gesturing towards the radio. “I tried but-” “Call again!”, he interrupted him, his tone leaving no room for arguments.

Dustin exchanged a quick look with Lucas and Max, who had joined Steve in calling your name. Pulling out the antenna Dustin took a step away from them, holding the radio close to his mouth. “Nancy, do you copy?”

Silence greeted him, but he tried again. “Robin, do you copy? It’s a code red!”

Silence.

He looked back at Steve, the panic all over his face as he shook your body, calling your name. “It’s a code red, I repeat, a code red!”

Still no answer. 

“Robin!”

“I am here!” Dustin let out a sigh of relief, tears filling his eyes. “Oh god! Please tell me you found something! And make it quick! (Y/n) is having a vision again!” Steve had turned towards him, listening intensely for answer. 

“Okay okay, we found something, but we don’t know-” He could hear mumbling in the background and car tires screeching as Robin let out a yelp. “Sorry, okay, try playing music!” 

“What?” Dustin held the radio closer to his ear, worried he had misheard her. “It would take too long to explain right now but try to play music that means something to her. It has to have a meaning for her, or it won’t work!”

He looked up to find Steve’s eyes on him. “The Walkman! It must be in her backpack. Go, get the Walkman!” Lucas had already made a run for it, nearly tripping over his own feet as he rushed to the car where they hoped to find your Walkman with all the other stuff you had packed.

It had always meant a lot to you, music offering a world you could escape into at any time. Everyone knew where you were your Walkman couldn’t be far. So the chances you had packed it into your backpack with the other things that were personal to you and didn’t want your parent to throw out seemed high.

“Come back to me, (y/n)!” Steve pleaded, scared that it might take too long. That the idea wouldn’t work. That his moment with you had been the last. He wished he would know if you could hear him, but you hadn’t mentioned it after your first vision, so he doubted it. 

“Get your ass here, Sinclair!”, he yelled over his shoulder, ignoring Dustin’s eyes on him. “I got it, I got it!” Lucas scrambled up next to them, your Walkman and a bunch of cassettes in his hands. “Which one is her favorite?” He laid them to the ground and Steve crouched down, frankly shifting through them. 

“I don’t know”, he mumbled, the letters blurring in front of his eyes. How could he have forgotten your favorite song? His hands had begun shaking as he turned the cassettes over in his hands, the words blending into a stream of uncoherent letters.

“Okay, slow down Steve!” Dustin had crouched down next to him, laying a hand on his shoulder. “You know her favorite song. Think about it!”

“I’m trying”, he shot back, running a hand over his face. He couldn’t freak out now, you were depending on him. But it was as if he was seeing the cassettes for the first time. As if he had to choose the last piece of a puzzle without being able to get a look at it. 

Impossible.

He felt Max hovering next to him. He knew she was just as terrified as the rest of them, but something about her presence seemed to ground him a little. For her age she seemed so mature, radiating a sense of calm he desperately needed to get his head straight again. He needed to think clearly.

“Are these all she brought?” Lucas nodded, impatience written on his face. “Just pick one!”, he yelled but Dustin shook his head. “It has to be the right one or it won’t work!” “Why?”, Lucas questioned, disbelief in his voice. “I don’t know! Robin never got to that part. I told her to make it quick!”

“Guys!” Max interrupted them with a glare. They definitely wouldn’t be able to focus with them bickering. Steve’s eyes flashed back to yours and suddenly an idea popped into his head. He leapt forward, sticking his hands into the pockets of your jacket. 

“What are you doing?”, he heard Dustin’s voice behind him, but he ignored him, a feeling of triumph sinking in as his hand wrapped around something hard and angular. He didn’t even need to read the title to know which song it was.

“This is the one! That’s why I couldn’t find it!” He crouched back down, inserting the cassette into the Walkman and rushing to place the headphones over your ears. “Turn it on!”

He didn’t know what he expected, perhaps a miracle, your eyes opening the moment the music started to play, but he didn’t expect nothing to happen. His face fell, his heart pounding loudly in his ears. “It didn’t work! Why didn’t it work?” He turned back to Dustin, desperate and scared.

“You have to give it time!” 

Time. They didn’t have time. You didn’t have time. 

“(Y/N)!” He went back to shaking your shoulders, not bearing to stand around and do nothing. A few moments later Dustin, Lucas and Max joined him in calling your name, your voices growing more distraught and hopeless with each call.

Suddenly your body began to move. Steve stumbled back, watching in shock as it was lifted off the ground. “NO!”

He didn’t care the whimper that escaped his mouth. Didn’t care to hold back his tears. His voice sounded raw and raspy as he screamed your name mixing with the voices of Dustin and Lucas. Max had taken a step back, her eyes wide with fear as she stared up at you.

This was how it had ended for Chrissy. Eddie had told them about it, how her body had been lifted to the ceiling and ripped apart a second later. A part of him wanted to advert his eyes, knowing he wouldn’t be able to bear the sight. But something kept him standing there, staring up at you.

Every thought seemed to have vanished, his mind blank as his emotions overwhelmed his body. He didn’t seem able to breathe, the oxygen not quite reaching his lungs and he could hear the blood rushing in his ears.

His hands came up to the back of his head as he shouted at your floating body, terrified it could begin to snap at any second. Everything in him felt wrong, as if his own body was shutting down. 

He couldn’t breathe properly. Couldn’t think. Couldn’t control his movements. A wave of sickness washed over him, but he wouldn’t throw up, didn’t dare to take his eyes off you for even a second.

His throat burned from all the shouting, but he ignored it. Even if it was pointless, he would be calling your name until the last minute, hoping wherever you were you could hear him and know you weren’t alone.

That he was here.

From one second to the next all the tension seemed to leave your body and he watched it fold in on itself as you fell to the ground. On pure instinct he rushed forward, trying to ease your fall.

You landed in a curled up position on your back, gasping for air as your head wiped around. Your eyes were wide open, but there was no trace of the white clouds anymore. “(Y/n)?!”, he breathed, reaching out towards you. 

Your head snapped towards him, a look of terror in your eyes before they settled on his. You didn’t get a word out, still panting too heavy to be able to speak, but he could see you were back.

Unharmed.

Your hands reached for his body, trying to get a hold on him and he leant forward, scooping you up into his arms. “I thought I had lost you”, he admitted, not caring about the tears that stained his cheeks.

Your grip was tight around what you could get a hold of from him, but he didn’t mind, pulling you as close into his chest as he could and trying to sooth you by running a hand over your hair.

“I’m still here”, you choked out. “I’m here.”

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[timetravesty]

(Queen B Book 3) Say You Love Me Pt. 9

✨Pt.9 is here!✨ Please Enjoy!

Context: Okay, thank you all for being patient with my uploading schedule 😮‍💨 Many things keeping me busy lately (😒 they know who they are), but I am hoping to get back into the swing of writing very soon! 😊 This series might be paused for just a little bit while I get a couple of requests out, but no worries! This fic has got a long way to go 👍

Masterlist

General Content Warnings: Mature, Angst, Possible NSFW, Cursing, Internalized Homophobia, Homophobia, Semi-Violence, Cheating, Slow Burn, Don Sterling 💀

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

“There she is!” Bea’s group exclaimed, clapping when Gina arrived, a furious blush on her face as she held a small bundle in her arms. The Indian woman smiled gratefully at the group, handing her husband the little bundle as Gina went around, hugging each of her colleagues. 

“Girl, congrats on motherhood!” Mei exclaimed, standing up just a little to engulf Gina in a hug. Gina hugged her back, patting Mei on the back as she reached Bea’s side of the table. 

“Oh,” Gina said in a soft voice. “I’m sorry, I don’t think I’ve met you before.” Gina said, looking down at Lana who stretched out her hand. 

“I’m Lana Bennet. Bea invited me.” Lana smiled as Gina shook her hand, casting a wink to Bea who smiled into her water glass. 

Even though she looked composed, Bea was anything but. Sitting a few tables down was the one and only Poppy Min-Sinclair: her former flame from Belvoire, the bane of her existence, her current boss, and Lana’s current boss. 

Bea took a sip from the glass, setting it down a second later as Gina came to sit right next to Bea. She expected it, after all, Gina had been her mentor when Bea first started out at Rensler. 

Casting a glance over to Poppy’s table, the woman didn’t seem to be paying Bea any attention. She must have been too enraptured by her current conversation with Don Sterling, but Bea knew that Poppy had seen her when she walked in. 

They had made eye contact for a split second before Poppy went off towards her table, leaving Bea flabbergasted. Now, only ten minutes into the dinner, Bea felt quite uncomfortable and the desire to leave was fairly strong. 

In true Poppy fashion, she would probably hold this over the girl, telling her Bea had somehow broken their contract which would probably make Bea’s life a living hell. The thought was annoying and Bea did her best to keep her glances to herself, but the scene was shocking. 

In all of Bea’s time at Belvoire, she never did see Poppy go out with a man. There was Carter and some other party dates she had to make Bea jealous probably, but Bea had never seen Poppy willingly go on a date. 

She wasn’t the dating type at Belvoire and it was hard to believe she had suddenly wanted to when she got out. In fact, Bea actually wondered if-

“So, Bea, I want to know how you and Lana met.” Gina said beside Bea, touching her shoulder playfully as Bea turned to look at the woman. Even as a new mother, Gina still looked flawless. Dark skin, gorgeous eyes, and the prettiest smile; Bea would be lying if she said she didn’t have a crush on her when they first met. 

Now though, Gina was more like an older sister to Bea. 

“We met at one of Zoey’s sets. Lana was hanging out with some friends and I was… wanting to hang out with them.” Bea smiled as Lana rolled her eyes. 

“She was non stop flirting with one of my mates and I told her to buzz off.” Lana smiled at the memory as Bea blushed red. Gina only laughed as another person at the table began to speak with her. 

“I was not flirting with your friend. I was asking her politely if she wanted to see a picture of my husky.” Bea whispered to Lana who stuck out her tongue playfully. 

“Jokes on you then. All my friends like cats.” She said as Bea mocked a gasp. 

“You guys are the worst. Dogs are obviously superior. They’re loyal.”

“They’re dirty.” 

“They like to play with you.” 

“They act like babies 24/7.” 

Bea frowned, playfully bumping Lana on the shoulder as the copper-haired girl giggled. “I’ve got two dogs at home right now and they’re well trained on top of that.” 

“Maybe I’ll learn to like dogs then…” Lana smiled subtly as Bea smirked. Lana really was an amazing girl. 

“So, should we order?” Mei asked as a waiter immediately approached their table. They all went around, shouting their orders and asking for recommendations as the party laughed and chatted amongst themselves happily. Bea normally didn’t like going all out on parties and whatnot, but she had to admit, being here with Lana was a nice experience. 

That is, until Bea’s thoughts ran back to the table sitting a few seats down from hers, where Bea heard Don shout happily as he spoke in a loud booming voice. Glancing over to Poppy’s table, the woman didn’t even bother to look at Don, circling her wine glass with a sharp nail as the man ran with conversation. 

Her hair was falling slightly in front of her eyes, lips pursed just a little as Don continued to boast. She looked like she was having an awful time. 

Bea couldn’t hear what he was talking about, but it was probably along the lines of wealth and popularity. Two of Poppy’s favorite things.

“I’ll have the Caesar salad.” Lana said beside Bea as she handed her the menu. Bea took it, looking over the options and frowning. Fancy food was definitely not her comfort food. 

“Just the penne rigate.” Bea smiled at the waiter, handing him the menu as he nodded, leaving the table to ring in the order as the group began their discussion again. 

“Gina, Bea has a huge client from Kath!” Mei told Gina who gasped, glancing at Bea who was currently swirling her wine glass. She was never one to boast about her jobs, but Mei did most of the boasting for the whole firm. Perks of being a receptionist. 

“It’s Po-” Bea gave Mei a warning look as the girl closed her mouth, instead smiling her wide smile and looking at Gina. “It’s a huge client and Bea might be in line for a huge promotion soon!” 

Gina turned towards Bea, clinking their wine glasses together as she smiled. “Congratulations Bea. Hard to believe you were a measly intern only two years ago.” 

“Oh my gosh. I was not a measly intern.” Bea laughed as Gina shook her head gently, gorgeous curls falling around her face as she looked at Bea fondly. 

“You were. Barely a baby in the world of architecture.” Gina said, looking at Lana who glanced at Bea. 

“Oh, the big bad architect Bea used to be small? That is hard to believe.” 

“Both of you, be quiet. Gina, I’m trying to look cool here.” Bea pleaded as Gina laughed, taking a sip from her wine as she smiled at Bea. 

“Bea Hughes is very cool, Lana. A true catch.” Gina added as Lana nodded. Bea shot her a grateful smile, turning to look at Lana who was no longer looking at Bea. 

“Um, Lana?” 

“Oh my gosh, is that… Don Sterling?! Do you think I can get an autograph?” Lana asked, jumping up from her seat quickly as she moved to get a better look. Bea’s eyes widened, connecting the dots that Lana definitely didn’t know who his dinner date was. 

Bea, thinking with her feet, jumped up as well, apologizing to their group as she walked up to where Lana, Poppy, and Don were. Conveniently, Lana got caught, but the girl was immune, a dazzling smile as she looked over at Poppy. 

“Poppy? What a small world!” Lana exclaimed when she reached the table as Poppy looked up from her sulking, looking Lana up and down before turning towards Don. “I’m sorry to disturb you, but… Mr. Sterling, I’m a massive fan!” Lana exclaimed, hands placed on her chest as she looked at Don with awe. 

“Oh, do you and Poppy know each other?” Don asked, smiling dashingly at Lana who looked like she would faint on the spot. 

“She’s one of my temporary contract models.” Poppy answered, looking at Lana who was still fawning over Don. She probably wanted to be on the date more than Poppy did. “Now, what are you doing here Lana?” Bea, who was hiding behind a waiter, finally emerged behind the man and walked up to the table, trying to retrieve Lana before Poppy spotted her. 

It was too late, however, since Don spotted her first. “My gosh, it is a small world!” Don said, standing up from the table and waving over at Bea. “Bea Hughes, right? You came to my party a few weeks ago!” He exclaimed as Bea bit her lip, walking forward as Poppy’s eyes zoned in on Bea. 

The two looked at each, stuck between Don and Lana who were all fawning over the wrong people. “It really is…” Bea cringed when Don patted her on the back. Poppy, ever observant, looked between Lana and Bea, eyebrows raised as she tsked. 

“Are you two here on a-” 

“No.” Bea cut her off quickly as Poppy startled. “One of my colleagues invited Lana. We just met tonight.” Bea concluded as Poppy hummed to herself. 

“That… that’s right.” Lana said as she glanced back towards their table. “My friend Mei invited me.” Lana smiled at Bea who avoided her gaze. Poppy definitely didn’t look convinced as Don gasped. 

“Really? Well, why don’t you both join us for a while? Your group can wait, right?” Bea was about to protest, but Lana began to reach for a chair, pulling it closer to the table and taking a seat. Don smiled wide, sitting back down at the round table as Bea sighed heavily. She moved around, grabbing a spare chair and dragging it across the floor, taking a seat next to Poppy and directly across from Lana. 

Bea could smell Poppy’s perfume strongly, the scent thick and a little too good as she avoided Poppy’s gaze. 

Don, smiling kindly at Lana, turned to look at Bea. “So, you and Kath came to my party to woo a client right? Tell me you bagged the bastard?” Don said, laughing at his phrase as he took a sip of wine. 

Oh, Bea didn’t like this guy at all. She cleared her throat as Bea stole a glance towards Poppy who looked absolutely done with this conversation. “Actually yes, Ms. Min-Sinclair and I are working on her building now.” 

Don, the idiot he was, choked on his wine, coughing loudly as some waiters came around to assist him. 

“Oh, it’s a really small world! And you two know each other?” Don asked, looking between Lana and Bea. Poppy perked up at the question as Lana nodded. 

“We met tonight.” Lana smiled as Bea shot her a grateful smile. “I didn’t know she was working with Poppy though.” 

Poppy, silent till now, glanced over at Lana who was admiring Don from a distance, then she looked at Bea whose eyes were trained on the table cloth. “What are you both doing here tonight?” Poppy asked as Bea felt a zip of chills hit her spine. 

“We’re celebrating the return of one of the senior architects at Rensler.” Bea told Poppy who nodded into her drink. “It’s really shocking to see you both here though. Sorry to interrupt your date.” It was Poppy’s turn to choke on her wine. She glared at Bea, before turning away and dabbing at her lips with her cloth napkin. 

“It’s not a-”

“It’s alright, really!” Don said as he smiled over at Poppy. “I was just telling Poppy about my latest venture into marine life.” 

“Oh, are you a marine biologist?” Bea asked as a waiter set a glass of water in front of Lana and her. Don laughed heartily, smoothing back his shiny black hair with a smile. 

“Not quite. I’m buying a 62 ft yacht soon and I was discussing a party to christen the girl.” 

It… it was probably the complete opposite of saving the environment as Bea nodded subtly into her water. Lana, however, looked thrilled. 

“You’re buying a yacht? That’s amazing, have you decided on a name yet?” She asked as Bea shot her a confused stare. Lana shrugged, returning her attention back to Don who looked ecstatic that someone was actually interested in his idea. 

“I’ve had one since I signed the contract. I’m getting it lettered in a couple of days, but~” He held his wide palms up, phrasing the letters as if one could see the words. “The Blooming Poppy.” 

Bea choked on her drink, causing Lana and Don to startle as Bea dabbed at her mouth with a napkin. “Wow, I’m so sorry. The name is just…. So beautiful.” Bea smiled at Don who nodded happily. 

“I even asked Poppy’s father for permission. It took me forever to come up with, but I think it does this beautiful woman justice.” He looked at Poppy, lust and no hint of love in his eyes as she avoided his gaze. Instead, Poppy was looking at Bea, staring at the girl who could feel Poppy’s eyes on her. She gulped, continuing to dab at her clothes before setting the damp napkin down. 

“Well, it certainly is a keeper.” Bea told Don who went on to describe the boat to Lana who was the only one interested. Bea turned her gaze over to Poppy who continued to look bored. She had given up circling her wine glass and was now looking down at her sharp nails, tapping them against the table as Bea watched her. 

While Lana and Don conversed, Bea’s thoughts traveled back to her original inner monologue. 

It was certainly strange to believe that Poppy was on a date with Don. Firstly, he didn’t seem like her type at all. Secondly, Bea had always thought that Poppy was…

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

“Is this where I die?” Bea mumbled to herself, walking through a few leaves as she ventured further into the forest. Bea had forgotten to check on the maps where Poppy was sending her, but she certainly didn’t expect it to be in the middle of nowhere. 

For such a mighty queen, Bea had expected Poppy to pick somewhere that at least had a sidewalk, but instead, Bea had spent the last twenty minutes walking through mud and dirt. Her sneakers were probably filthy, something she wasn’t going to have fun cleaning up when she got back to her dorm. Zoey would probably also have a fit, especially since her roomie was such a neat person. Surprisingly, kind of a germaphobe. 

Wacking away a tree branch, Bea heard the distant thump of a speaker coming from nearby. She walked closer to the sound, stopping when she approached a large house, right in the middle of the woods. 

Approaching, Bea knocked twice on the wooden door. She heard the speaker silence, heard a click of heels, before the door was thrown open and Bea had to look down. 

Poppy stood, a familiar pink coat wrapped around her shoulders as she looked Bea up and down. Bea was only wearing a simple letterman jacket with jeans, nothing spectacular and Poppy was obviously aware of it. 

She moved away from the door, letting Bea enter as she stepped in. Inside, a huge pool sat in the center, multiple couches and lawn chairs along with a huge bar. It looked like a great party place, but it was surprisingly empty. Only Poppy stood in the room as she turned on her heel, crossing her arms as Bea rocked on her heels. 

“I should just ask if you’re going to kill me, cause I can’t promise I won’t put up a fight.” Bea told her as Poppy scoffed, loudly. The sound echoed around as Bea bit her lip. 

“I wouldn't ruin the marble in this room. It costs more than your life.” Poppy said as she went closer towards the pool. Bea believed it. Everytime she moved, it squeaked like it was brand new. 

“So, what am I doing here? In this creepy clubhouse, might I add?” 

“Get over here Hughes. I have a proposal for you.” Poppy said as Bea shrugged, walking closer to the pool and peering down. 

“Shit, are you going to drown me? Warning, I have great lungs so you’ll have to hold me down for about five minutes if you really want me-” 

“Shut the fuck up or I’ll kick you out.” Poppy warned, slipping off her heels as she moved to take a seat on the floor. She dipped her feet into the pool, the water hitting her ankles as Bea shrugged. She followed her, slipping off her sneakers as she took a seat next to Poppy. Not close to where they touched, but close enough that Bea could smell her perfume. 

Gosh, she loved the smell of Poppy’s perfume. 

“I’m assuming based on your carefree attitude right now, you haven’t checked the recent rankings.” Bea quirked a brow, pulling out her phone from her back pocket and scrolling to the T. 

Sitting in big bold letters at the very top was no longer Queen Poppy, but now, Queen Chloe St. James. 

“What the hell?” Bea mumbled, refreshing the page to check if it was real as Poppy rolled her eyes. 

“It’s real you idiot and I’m furious.” Poppy growled, kicking some water with her foot as Bea placed her phone to the side. 

“So I guess I’m going against Chloe now.” Bea mumbled as Poppy shook her head. 

“I think the eff not. You’re going to help me take down the snake.” Poppy snapped as Bea leaned back on the palms of her hands, looking at Poppy who looked like she was foaming at the mouth. 

“How the frick would that help me? Chloe is easy to take down, no one likes her.” 

“Then your point of redeeming Belvoire just got a whole lot more pointless. You think Chloe will stay in this spot? She’s going to fall back down soon, but I don’t take well to traitors who think they can rise above.” Poppy told Bea who nodded, thinking it over for a second. 

It was true. There was no way Chloe was going to stay in this rank and if Bea were to help Poppy… maybe Bea could redeem a debt soon. 

While Zoey would think this was a bad idea, Bea thought it was brilliant. “Okay, what do you want to do to her?” Bea asked as Poppy smiled wickedly. 

“I have it all planned out, Hughes. I just need you to show up to the address I’ll text you later. After that, you just need to follow instructions like a good little piggy.” 

“Ouch, insults aren’t going to make me follow you Poptart. Gotta treat your colleagues with respect.” 

“We’re not colleagues. You’re doing this for me as much as I am doing this for you.” Poppy punctuated, glaring over at Bea who was staring out across the pool. 

“Yea, but like… not really cause I could just go woo Chloe.” 

“Woo Chloe? She’s straight, dumbass.” 

“Really? Cause the way she kisses your ass-” 

Poppy held up her palm, silencing Bea from making some crude joke. “I am not in the mood to hear some gay joke you’re going to make about that snake.”

“What? How did you know I was gay?!” Bea mocked a gasp, looking over at Poppy who rolled her eyes so far back, her face looked like it would be stuck for a minute. 

“You dress like that and you’ve probably slept with every woman on campus.” Poppy shivered at the thought, sticking out her tongue in disgust as Bea broke into a laugh. 

“I’ve only been here for like three months? You think I’ve been with that many women?” Poppy shrugged, as if the thought was unwanted even though she had brought it up. 

“First off, I wish, and secondly…” Bea looked Poppy up and down, stopping at her legs as Poppy glared at Bea from the sides. “Definitely not every woman on campus.” 

“Fat chance Hughes. If I even find myself in a bedroom with you, I would rather wear flannel shirts for the rest of the school year.”

“Who said it had to be the bedroom?” Bea asked as Poppy looked like she was going to absolutely murder the girl. She glared daggers at Bea who smiled innocently. 

“If I am ever in a place where our clothes magically fall off, I’d rather wash the feet of every single Alpha bro than even touch your hand.” 

“Ouch, you would rather get athlete’s feet than sleep with me?” Bea whistled under her breath, smiling subtly as Poppy groaned aloud. Though Poppy looked straight, Bea had the small gay hope that maybe she wasn’t completely. 

She didn’t want to be anyone’s test subject, obviously, but she had meant what she said before. Poppy made her curious and now… she was even more curious since her boyfriend was off the hook. 

“Though really, you’ve never been curious about girls?” Bea asked as Poppy rolled her eyes. 

“I don’t give two shits if you’re gay Bea, but I’m not. So drop it and get out of my clubhouse. I’m done with you.” 

“Hold on now, drama queen.” Bea smirked, stretching a little more as her legs dipped further into the pool. “You’re telling me, you’ve never like, looked at Veronica and thought, ‘woah, she’s hot.’” 

Poppy glared at Bea, as if stopping herself from pushing Bea into the pool. “Is this your indirect way of telling me you have a thing for Veronica? News flash, I don’t care.” 

“Cool, so can I have her number?” 

Poppy let out a sharp gasp, hands moving and shoving Bea into the pool as Bea yelped. Bea landed with a small splash, standing up a second later as the water only came up to her waist. Pushing her short brown locks out of her eyes, Bea sighed, ducking her head low and looking at her drenched letterman jacket. 

“Okay, okay. I guess I deserved that.” 

“You did. Now dry off and leave.” Poppy stated, pushing herself up and reaching for her high heels. Bea rolled her eyes, shrugging out of her jacket, revealing her black tank top as Poppy’s eyes darted over to her frame. 

Tattoos lined over toned tanned arms, Bea was certainly attractive and something told Bea that Poppy knew it. Not in the typical, oh that person is attractive, more like, Poppy definitely wanted Bea to walk around with no shirt on attractive. 

“Something to say, Pops?” Bea asked, smiling up at Poppy whose face was lightly blushed in red. She looked a mess and Bea was the one who was wet. 

Poppy gulped, shaking her head and returning to her usual stoic expression. 

“Yea, don’t drip water on the carpet or else.” Poppy concluded, moving away from the pool and walking out of the clubhouse a second later. She toddled off in a hurry, as Bea let out a soft chuckle. 

Bea threw her jacket towards the floor, conveniently landing it on the fluffy blue carpet as she hoisted herself out of the pool. Shaking off the water from her arms, Bea went in search of a towel. 

Finding one in a hamper next to a large coffee table, Bea threw the towel over her neck, rubbing it against her head to try and dry off. Though, she was thoroughly soaked. 

Her phone luckily didn’t take too much damage in the pool as she plopped down in one of the club chairs. It was strange, she had never heard of this place before and it certainly wasn’t on her tour map when she first came to Belvoire. 

It was… pretty. A large glass dome with wooden walls, it even smelled like fruit and judging by the other doors, there were probably more areas to explore that Bea would have to check out later. After all, if this was some secret clubhouse for the tops of Belvoire, Bea should be able to join very soon. 

Moving the towel down to her jeans, Bea paused, looking at a neat pile of papers sitting on the wood, conveniently in a familiar cursive that only Poppy Min-Sinclair could write. 

Bea smirked to herself, dropping the towel on a nearby chair and reaching for a paper. It was a simple discussion post for one of Poppy’s Economic classes, two pages long and double-spaced. 

Pretty boring topic of recent economic downturn. Bea rolled her eyes, moving to pick up another paper that was similar in topic. It seemed, Poppy was not lying about her GPA. While Penelope Dogwood once told Bea that Poppy stole her test answers from her, judging by the stack of papers in front, it seemed like Poppy was actually a decent student. 

Hopefully, decent enough to not ruin their shared project. 

As Bea approached the last of the papers set on the table, she stopped at one that was labeled “rough draft of Com.” Bea raised her eyebrows, picking it up and smiling. Even the great Poppy Min-Sinclair did stupid rough drafts. 

Flipping to the last page, which was where everything was interesting, Bea stopped as a small piece of paper slipped out. It fluttered to the floor as Bea hummed, leaning down and picking it up. She unfurled the folded note, clearing her throat as she read. 

“Poppy, I know you said not to call, but you said that last time…” Bea frowned. 

“Seriously? How many guys does this girl hook up with?” She mumbled as she felt her ideas slip out of her head. No game if Poppy had a new boo. Shaking her head, Bea continued down the letter. 

“I’ll get to the point and the point is, I miss you.” Bea pursed her lips. It seemed like a crazy idea to miss someone like Poppy, though, maybe this guy knew something that Bea didn’t. 

“Miss the way you smell, the way you talk, that thing you do with your tongue when…” Bea’s words trailed off, reading the rather detailed explanation that this rando gave on whatever Poppy did with her tongue. The imagery left little to imagination as Bea felt her cheeks warm. Damn. 

“Anyway, I’m willing to do whatever it takes. I love you Poppy. Love…” Bea’s eyes widened, rubbing them with her knuckle like she was in a cartoon before holding the paper closer. Maybe water had gotten into her eyes or her brain was fuzzy with the idea that someone could love Poppy, but it was in a messy scrawl, big letters against white paper. 

“Carol?” 

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

“And so, what did I tell the man? I said, “Excuse me sir, that is my car and you owe me two thousand dollars!”” Don said as Lana burst into laughter. She was having the time of her life as Don joined in her cheers, smiling wide as Lana held her stomach. 

“That is the best story I have ever heard in my life!” Lana smiled as Don shrugged, cutting into his medium rare steak as Lana took a bite from her salad. 

Magically, the two had relocated, leaving Bea’s colleagues at their own table while Bea sat beside Poppy who was currently fiddling with a small plate of Salmon. After Don’s yacht talk, he had ventured into other subjects. Specifically, cars, wealth, modeling possibilities, and the ever inflated ego debate. 

“I like to give to others, I know where I come from.” He boasted as Lana looked at him with puppy eyes. For a girl who knew very little about the guy, she looked like she knew him by heart. 

Bea spun a noodle around on her plate, excusing the waiter who offered more wine as Don held up his glass. Out of the four, only two seemed to be having a good time. 

Bea had kept her glances to herself, not bothering to look at Poppy who was clearly avoiding her gaze. The restaurant certainly hadn’t quieted down, more patrons streaming in with talks of the food. 

While Bea was enjoying her pasta, it certainly wasn’t something she would try again. Fancy food probably wasn’t her thing, if she was being honest. 

“So, are you and Poppy dating?” Lana asked, smiling between the two as Don grinned at Poppy who ignored him. 

“Well, this is our first date, so we’re taking it slow.” He told Lana who looked like he had just professed his love for Poppy. 

“Wow, well, I know you’re my boss Poppy, but you and Don would make a gorgeous couple!” Lana smiled at Poppy who looked like she was seconds from popping a blood vessel. Her face was heated red, though, it was hard to tell since the lighting in the restaurant was orange. She gave Lana a curt nod, nothing else before she stood up sharply. 

“Excuse me, I need to retouch up my makeup.” Poppy said, frowning as she left. Don nodded, blissfully unaware at the daggers Poppy was throwing with her eyes as she left the table.

“Oh, I should tell you about my party with the prince of Fakustivich!” Don told Lana who nodded excitedly. Bea, focused on Poppy’s retreating form, looked at Lana who sat across from her, paying her no attention, might she add. 

Sighing, Bea pushed her dish away, standing up and excusing herself. The two didn’t care, too enraptured in their conversation as Bea walked back to her colleagues. 

“Bea, hey! Where did you run off too? We’re splitting desserts!” Mei smiled when Bea rejoined. She took a seat next to Gina who was conveniently holding a little bundle in her arms. Clearing her throat, Bea smiled kindly at the group. 

“Sorry, I actually ran into my temporary boss… Poppy Min-Sinclair.” Bea said as the table broke out into gossip. 

“Oh my gosh, she’s so pretty!” One of Bea’s colleagues exclaimed as she held back a wince. 

“I wish I had her figure! Did you see the latest issues about-” Bea drowned the talking out, glancing over at Gina who was rocking her daughter. 

“Poppy Min-Sinclair huh?” Gina asked as Bea nodded, eyes trained on the little baby as Gina smirked. 

“Want to hold her?” She asked as Bea quickly shook her head. 

“I… I don’t know how, so it’s best not to drop her.” Bea concluded as Gina snorted a laugh. While the table continued to converse, Gina gently maneuvered Bea’s arms to support the little girl’s head. 

“Wow, you’re so shaky. Stop it.” Gina murmured, resting Bea’s palm against the baby before leaning back. Sitting in a rather awkward position with her hands on the baby’s front and back, Bea raised a sharp brow over at Gina who grinned wide. 

“Isn’t she adorable? Her name’s Candice.” Gina smiled, rubbing the baby’s head as Bea nodded. 

She was a cute kid, but… a little too perfect looking. “Here, you can have her back now.” Bea said as Gina rolled her eyes, taking back her daughter as she rocked her carefully. 

“You ever thought about kids Bea?” 

“Not really.” Bea mumbled, resting her chin on the palm of her hand as Gina tsked. 

“That’s a pity. You’d have gorgeous children.” 

“Too bad cause I’m definitely not getting pregnant.” Bea smiled, sticking out her tongue as Gina smacked her gently on the arm. 

“There are other methods now, Bea. Perhaps your future wife might want kids?” 

“Who said I’m getting married? Maybe I’ll just be a player for the rest of my life.” Bea turned to look at Gina who shook her head. Her baby, silent till now, began to stir as Gina handed her off to her husband who stood to help. He seemed like a good man and Bea was glad Gina had found him. 

“I saw the way you looked at Lana. You obviously like her and…” Gina’s eyes trailed over to where Lana was laughing with Don. Apparently, Poppy hadn’t returned. 

“I’m hoping she likes you just as much.” Gina finished as Bea shrugged. 

“I think she does, but… we can’t really go on a date since she’s got this stupid contract that doesn’t allow her to.” 

“Really? Bea Hughes? Following rules?”

“Hey, Lana is a fantastic model. I don’t want to ruin any chances for her.” Gina nodded, rubbing her wrist as the waiters came back around for another glass of wine and dessert orders. 

“Well, just make sure you really like her Bea. Lana seems great, but… don’t you think she’s getting a little friendly with that guy over there?” 

“Don Sterling?” Bea looked back over her shoulder. From what she could tell, Don only seemed interested in Poppy. Besides, Lana could smell through that guy’s bullshit, right?

“He’s full of hot air, no worries.” Bea said as Gina sighed, deciding to drop the conversation as Bea pushed back her hair. The gel was starting to wear off, but luckily, she stashed a small tube in her pocket. 

“Excuse me for a minute, I’m heading to the restroom, though, save me a cannoli or something.” Gina chuckled, waving Bea away as she stood. Bea left the table, maneuvering through the tight crowds and into the ladies room that even had a waiter waiting outside with breath mints. 

Bea smirked, pushing open the doors and walking in before stopping in her tracks. Standing with her back against the wall and her phone in hand, Poppy was scrolling furiously through her phone. The air in the room felt colder as Bea wondered if there was another bathroom around. 

“Excuse me, you’re blocking the door.” A woman said from behind Bea, causing her to jump out of her trance from staring at Poppy. 

Poppy finally looked up, eyes locking on Bea who moved out of the way for the woman to enter. 

Bea stepped in carefully, feeling Poppy’s eyes on her as she stood in front of the mirror. Feeling around in her pocket, Bea gulped as she placed the packet of hair gel on the counter, hearing the bustling of other women in the bathroom before it went quiet. Bea’s hands clenched the granite, biting her lip as she tried her best to keep her gaze from falling on Poppy who wasn’t looking at her. Somehow, the girl was good at avoiding Bea’s eye contact. 

Seeing all of the open stall doors, Bea cursed. It was like before. Bea and Poppy, all alone in a fancy bathroom with no words exchanged between the two, that is, until Poppy finally spoke, still avoiding Bea’s gaze as she looked off in the distance.  

“I need to talk to you.”

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

세계의 끝까지

[magicrowiswritingstuff]

“Embrace” - Din Djarin x female!reader

Tigaanur Series: Part 1 | Part 2 (you’re here!) | Part 3 | MASTERLIST

Summary: The first time you slept next to the Mandalorian definitely wasn’t that comfortable. The second time would have been a lot better … if you could have fallen asleep in his embrace.

Warning: the fluff continues, a bit of violence/near death experience? (honestly ... is that news in that series?), more touching and bed sharing, suggestive themes, Hmmm slow-burn romance! My favorite ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

Category: fluff

Words: about 8.000

Notes: The sequel to “Touch” is here! You don’t have to read the first part necessarily but I would suggest it because some things are references you might understand better if you read both. I also decided to name this series “Tigaanur“ which is Mando’a for ... touch, lol. I hope y’all like the second part just as much! I had a lot of fun writing this, hehe. Note 2: Again, set during season 1 but the events are drawn out over a longer period of time (but they aren’t really mentioned) Note 3: If you like my writing ... I’m taking Requests! Or if you just want to be notified when I upload something: I’ve started a taglist, too!

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“Embrace” – Din Djarin x fem!reader

With a huff you turned in your makeshift bed and stared at the ceiling of the Razor Crest, your hands clasped and neatly placed on your stomach. Keeping track of the time was difficult when you were in hyperspace for more than a day, at least for you, but when spending these days unable to fall asleep, the minutes seemed to last an eternity longer. Insomnia plagued you in your hours of otherwise peaceful slumber ever since a few weeks. All those events, all those concerns to keep the Child safe and the realization that there was a bounty on your head now, kept you awake, alert even when you knew it was safe to close your eyes. Your days were a constant pattern you couldn't escape from. Fighting, fleeing, repeat. You were aware of what you had signed up for when you joined Mando and the little one on the Razor Crest and you didn't regret a thing. But what you hadn't been aware of at the beginning was just how much your mind would struggle to process everything. You adapted to having to be observant and careful all the time, you just couldn't switch it off anymore. Your body shook with energy, prepared to act if necessary at any time even when you were more than exhausted. In the last couple of weeks you only seemed to find any sleep when your body was too exhausted to function anymore, leaving you passed out in the copilot seat more often than not. When Mando would notice you almost falling sleep beside him, he always urged you to go down in your bed. You knew he only wanted you to sleep comfortably, the copilot seat wasn't the best alternative for your body and especially for your back. You didn't dare to tell him that the moment you would settle down in your bed, you would be wide awake for the rest of the flight. Sometimes sleep was within reach, so close but your mind would startle you awake before you could get a hold of it. Leaving you panicked in your bed with your heart beating relentlessly against your ribs, keeping you awake for the rest of the night. Other times your body was simply too restless for you to even feel tired, let alone fall asleep. The constant stress your body and mind were under, slowly but surely strained your nerves.

You groaned, frustrated at yourself, and pressed the palms of your hands against your eyes. You couldn't deal with this anymore. You kicked back your blanket and stood up from your makeshift bed. You stretched your arms over your head until your shoulders made a satisfied plopping sound, then you grabbed your blanket, draped it over your shoulders and head like a hood before you made your way to the ladder leading up. You tiptoed silently past the Mandalorian's cot in which the kid was sleeping soundly, not wanting to wake the little on up, and then climbed up to the cockpit.

Mando shifted in his seat the moment you set a foot onto solid ground again, tilting his head in confusion as he looked at you. You walked up to him with your head lowered and sat down into the copilot seat to his right. With your feet plopped onto the seat, you wrapped the blanket around you and leaned your head back, glancing at the streaks of blue and silver above your through the window. "Nightmare?" he asked, his voice a soft whisper his modulator struggled to pick up. His concern for you made your heart flutter and warmth spred in your stomach. "No" you shook your head and wrapped the blanket tighter around your body. "Just can't fall asleep right now." It wasn’t a lie, just not the complete truth either. You let out a sigh, your eyes still fixated onto the fascinating beauty that was hyperspace even though you have seen it a million times already. But the nebula of blue and silver, of the stars swirling around you, never ceased to amaze you. The silence was light but filled with unspoken words and questions. You didn't dare to ask any of them out loud. You didn't want to disturb the comfortable silence and you weren't sure if you wanted to hear his answers anyway. You had asked him the question that was burning on the tip of your tongue before. His answer didn't really clarify much for you, you were still unsure at times. Now you only knew that he didn't mind the touches, didn't mind you around him. You were curious but also afraid to ask again. You liked how the bond you two shared was right now, you didn't want it to change to something awkward.

Your eyes fluttered close unwillingly, the exhausting taking a hold of your stiff body. You still couldn't relax but your body needed to shut down, needed to recharge. You heard the Mandalorian shuffle with something but before you could open your eyes to look, he had already grabbed your hand from underneath the blanket and intertwined his un-gloved fingers with yours. The warmth of his touch immediately washed over your whole body. Your lips formed into a soft smile as you squeezed his hand in thanks, slowly melting into his touch and the seat, gradually you felt your body relax. Mando began to draw small circles on the back of your hand, soothing your racing thoughts to a halt. No words were spoken, but you didn't feel like they were necessary right now. You were just grateful for his touch as your mind slipped into a peaceful slumber. The last clear thought you could form stuck with you even when you woke up again a few hours later. You never seemed to be able to relax in your bed just as good as if you were in the cockpit with Mando by your side.

_______________

"Why does this always happen?" you huffed under your breath as you ran beside the Mandalorian, trying to get back to the Razor Crest before one of the men hunting you could land a shot.

You had just wanted to get some more supplies again, with three people on the ship rations didn't last long, especially with the always hungry kid that was hiding in the bag slung over your shoulder right now. You had wanted to go alone but after what happened the last time, when you had gotten badly hurt, Mando didn't allow that. Especially now that there was also a bounty on your head to track him and the kid down. You were in far more danger than he anticipated, than he wanted. But you also were in a desperate need to leave the ship even if it was only for an hour. You couldn’t stand being trapped there any longer, so you argued with him, refused to stay behind. After a while, and very reluctantly, Mando agreed to you going with him which meant that the kid had to join, too, because you didn't want to leave him alone on the ship. You had hoped for it to run smoothly, to just for once be able to enjoy a trip to a market and not be confronted with the harsh reality again. But you should have known better, you should have known that some bounty hunters would spot you three, that it was just inevitable.

So, that was why you were running through the narrow streets of the city you were in right now. Fighting them all off immediately hadn't been an option this time with all the civilians around you blocking your path and sight, so you three had to resort to shooting your way free and immediately fleeing after that. The plan had been to find a spot where you would have some advantage to attack but the city seemed to only consist of small, narrow streets in which you couldn't do anything except try to run, try to not get shot in the back.

Mando was running beside you but after a while you had trouble keeping pace with him. Your legs burned, the exhaustion in every fiber of your body from weeks of almost no sleep slowed you down more and more. Gasping for air you tried to not fall too far behind. The Mandalorian took a sharp turn to the left, vanishing into another small side street. You stumbled, struggling to slow down enough to take the turn without needing to stop completely. You could only vaguely hear the shouting of the bounty hunters behind you over the blood rushing through your ears and your heart hammering against your ribs. But what you could hear, or rather feel, was the blaster shoots zooming past you, barely missing. They were coming closer, fast. The kid cooed in your bag, confused by what was going on when you grabbed the bag and pressed it with him in it protectively against your chest. At least he wouldn't get hit there. You managed to round the corner and fixated your eyes back on Mando's form. With a groan you sped up, trying to catch up to him. But then you felt the laser of a blaster, its heat sizzled past your face, missing your skin only barely. Your heart leaped into your throat and you jumped to the side, your back collided with the wall of a building as you came to a sudden halt. When you collected your thoughts enough to turn your head, you saw the bounty hunters had already followed you into the small street and you knew there was no use in escaping anymore. If you ran, they would just shoot you in the back. You looked down at the Child who had stuck out his head from the bag, staring at you with his big, round eyes, and you knew what you had to do. You had no other option. You had to fight. You grabbed your blaster from the holster on your hip -Mando made you take one with you and had taught you the basics, now that you were on the radar of bounty hunters too- and slung the bag around so the Child would be hidden behind your back, safe from any blaster shots coming your way. You had no time to aim so you just shot into the general direction of the bounty hunters, hoping for the best, as you pushed yourself from the wall, avoiding a few shots only barely. Miraculously you managed to hit a few of them, or maybe it was Mando who hit them. He had to be somewhere behind you, he probably noticed your absence and had turned around to help, but your mind was too clouded to notice his footsteps hurrying closer or his blaster shots coming from behind you, more unfocused and aimless than usually. You ducked your head down to avoid a few more otherwise fatal shots and directed your blaster to the bounty hunter closest to you, only for it to jam. You pulled the trigger three times before you realized that nothing was happening. Your eyes widen in horror and you did the only thing you could think of right now: Protect the Child at all cost. You let your blaster fall to the ground as you spun around, so your back was facing the bounty hunters. You grabbed the bag during your turnaround and pressed it against your chest again, putting one hand on the little one’s head in an attempt to soothe him while your body shook in fear. You prepared yourself for the hit, prepared yourself for the heat sinking into your skin, for the pain, when you suddenly felt someone grab you and spin you around with them. You were too disoriented to react, to fight, you could only hear the lasers leaving the bounty hunter’s blaster, but none of them hit you. Instead, they hit something metallic, making them bounce off. You lifted your head slightly and your breath got stuck in your throat as you realized what was happening. Mando had wrapped his arms around you and spun you so his body was shielding you and the kid from the lasers, his back facing the bounty hunters, instead of yours. You couldn't do anything, except for staring at his visor in pure shock while he silently stared back, not even tilting his helmet in question. Him moving his hands behind your back stayed mostly unnoticed by you. Only when the whistling birds already struck down the bounty hunters that were left did you realized what he had done.

The echo of the blasters suddenly stopped, leaving the small side street in complete silence with the only exception being your still widely beating heart hammering against your ribs. The first one to move was neither Mando nor you but the Child, who was tugged in between the two of you. Wiggling and stretching his arms out he cooed at the Mandalorian whose helmet lowered to look at him. Slowly he loosened his grip on you, though his arms still stayed wrapped around you. If you didn't know it any better you would have said he was afraid you would disappear if he let go. But you didn't mind his hold on you, your legs were shaking uncontrollably and you would probably have slumped down on the ground without him. "Are you hurt?" he asked and glanced back at you, his voice frantic. You shook your head and let out a breathy sigh. "No-o" you said and gasped for air, your heart pumping hard against your chest in relief, before you directed your gaze to the little one. "We're okay. B-but I need a moment." You let your forehead fall against Mando’s armored chest and just focused on your breathing. The Mandalorian didn't move or interject, instead he tightened his arms around you again, giving you not only stability but comfort, too. You closed your eyes and tried to stop the shaking of your body. The adrenaline had vanished and only left the fear behind that was still closing its claws around you. You gulped, realizing that you almost ... that you could have died. A cold shiver ran down your spine as your breath hitched. This could have been the end of your journey. You could have... "We need to go" Mando spoke up, his voice caring an apologetic tone. You nodded against his chest, understanding that you had to leave the planet before more bounty hunters could arrive. You bit your lip and straightened up, taking a step back the Mandalorian let his arms slip from you, bringing them back to his sides. "Let's go" you agreed, trying to cover the waver of your voice with a small smile.

You held the Child pressed against your chest the whole remaining way back to the Razor Crest. His soft squeaks kept your mind at ease and focusing on his big, curious eyes made you forget about what almost happened. At least for the time being. Luckily, you didn't walk into any more bounty hunters. Though you could only take a deep breath of relief when the hangar closed tightly behind you. You only half-heartedly noticed Mando gently pushing you down onto the edge of his cot by the shoulders. You stared at the ground before you, still hugging the little one against your chest, and didn't even register the Razor Crest taking off. The short startle of the jump into hyperspace was also left unnoticed. Only when the Child was softly taken out of your arms did you look up at the Mandalorian, who had come back down. You didn't protest as he put the little one into his hammock where he promptly fell asleep.

"You should get some rest" the Mandalorian suggested, one of his hands resting on your shoulder, the leather of his glove brushing against the skin of your neck. The sensation left small tingles behind which would have made you sigh if you weren’t so tense. And even though you would have loved to, you knew sleep wasn't an option for you right now. "I can't-" you choked out and lowered your eyes to stare at your still shaking hands. You clenched them to fists and bit your lip. And even though the Mandalorian didn't speak up, did you know what he was asking when his hand wandered from your shoulder to your neck and cheek. You leaned into his touch, closed your eyes and wished to just fall asleep in his comforting presence, to just be able to forget this day. "I haven't been able to sleep properly ever since I joined you" you confessed, your voice faint. "But it has gotten worse over the last few weeks." "What can I do to help you?" the Mandalorian asked sincerely concerned. You couldn't help the soft chuckle escaping from your mouth. "Can you stay?" you hummed even though you knew he couldn't. This wasn't necessarily the worst sleeping position you were in since the last couple of weeks, but also not one of the best. However, if you moved to your bed or to the cockpit now, you would be wide awake once more. But Mando probably didn’t want to and couldn’t stay in that position anyway. You sighed at the warmth of his touch, relishing the moment for a few seconds more before you would have to stand up. But then Mando pulled away, making you open your eyes in an instant. You were about to stand up from his cot when he suddenly kneeled down before you. Freezing in place you stared at his visor that stayed trained on your face. Every word you could have said got stuck in your throat when he grabbed your legs and slipped your shoes off. You couldn't even ask him what he was doing, though your face probably gave that thought away. He placed your shoes neatly beside the entrance to his cot before slipping his off, too, which only left you even more confused. You blinked at him in lack of understanding, searching for words.

"What are you doing?" you managed to ask when he had stood up and took a step closer. He was now directly in front of you, his body so close you could feel the warmth that radiated from him and it springing over to you. He was so close that you had to put your head back to keep your eyes focused on his helmet. "Staying with you" he only answered. Before you could ask further questions, he suddenly picked you up with one arm underneath your legs and the other bracing your back. Your eyes grew wide as you just clung onto him, unable to protest. Somehow Mando managed to get you two settled into his cot with him lying on his back, almost taking in all the space, and you on your side, trying to squeeze into the space that was left. Nevertheless, you had to press against him with your head lying on his armored shoulder. You didn't dare to breathe, didn't dare to move at all and just watched Mando for a while. He had his hands clasped on top of his stomach, the visor of his helmet pointed to the ceiling, harshly reflecting the still switched-on lights of the ship. He didn’t move and you began to wonder if he had already fallen asleep. But then you thought about how he was even supposed to fall asleep that way in his bed, completely dressed in his armor. Wasn’t he uncomfortable? You furrowed your brows, your eyes still trained on his helmet. Or did he always sleep that way? Fully dressed in his armor? Unmovingly on his back like a rock?

"Sleep."

You couldn't help the squeak spilling over your lips as you flinched in embarrassment, making the Mandalorian chuckle lowly. He had noticed you staring, obviously. You cursed at yourself and ducked your head in, trying to sink into yourself and appear smaller while your cheeks heated up. Embarrassed you stared at your hands, refusing to meet the Mandalorian’s gaze again. His shoulders shook lightly from his silent laughter. Then he grabbed the blanket, draping it over the two of you before he pushed a button on the side of the wall which switched off the lights and closed the door to the cot. You were grateful for the darkness as your face definitely gave away your flustered state. For a few moments you focused on Mando's regular breathing through the modulator, feeling his body move next to you to the almost completely silent rhythm. You mimicked his relaxed breathing, trying to clear your thoughts and focusing on only that and not the close proximity you had to each other. And before you knew it your body relaxed and you fell asleep, tightly pressed against him.

_______________

You were relieved and grateful to Mando for finally having found some sleep through his help, but you would be lying if you said it was a comfortable slumber.

You had awoken alone in Mando's cot. Well, not completely alone. The kid was still sleeping in his hammock above you and the pain in your back was now also a new companion. Spending one night cramped into one tiny space with a man completely dressed in cold, hard armor probably wasn't the best idea. Nevertheless, you had slept and for the first time in weeks you felt somewhat well rested, back pain brushed aside.

You groaned and set up, rubbing your eyes and wondered how you didn't notice Mando leaving. In the tight space that was his bed you surely would have felt him move, right? Well, apparently you had been far too out of it for that. You were somewhat impressed at yourself for having fallen so deeply asleep but your body probably had just passed out, far too exhausted to keep being alert even in your sleep.  You yawned, searched for the button to open the cot and then crawled to its edge to put your shoes back on, noticing that Mando's were gone. You stood up and glanced at the Child but when you noticed that he was still soundly asleep, you silently walked to the ladder and climbed up. Once you were at the top you stopped and stared at the back of Mando's helmet, suddenly feeling very unsure of yourself. Sleeping next too him was the most intimate gesture he had shared with you. And even though that wasn’t really something big normally, you had shared a bed with friends before, this felt different. Somehow it felt intrusive and very exciting at the same time. You felt special but flustered none the less. Then you huffed and shook your head, clearing it from those thoughts. 'We only shared a bed' you told yourself. There was nothing special about that, right? Well, maybe not with any other person. But with Mando every small step felt like a miracle, like a risk to take even though being close to him was nothing new to you anymore. You held hands, you saw and felt his skin underneath the leather gloves, you even sat on his lap a few times while in hyperspace. But nothing ever felt so intimate than lying next to him in his small cot, even if you had a sore back now because of that. Alone the memory of it made your heart speed up again. Never had so simple gestures felt so exciting to you. And then the desire hit you that you wanted more, wanted to be closer to the man behind the beskar. And that thought suddenly scared you. You shook your head once more and forced yourself to sit down into one of the copilot seats. You stared out of the window, too afraid to meet the Mandalorian's gaze should he tilt his head to you, too afraid he would somehow know what you were thinking. You felt torn. Torn between wanting to embrace whatever this was and scared to know what he wanted, what he thought. Scared to know what exactly this was. It wasn’t a simple partnership anymore, not just a crew you happened to join. This was something that set your heart aflame whenever you were near him. But you didn’t want to ask. You didn’t want to know his answer. As long as he didn’t tell you what this was to him you could continue to pretend, to relish these moments that meant so much to you.

You folded your hands and placed them in your lap to stop yourself from fiddling with your thumbs. The silence was uncommonly heavy, pressing down on your shoulders and pinning you to the seat. "Thank you" you whispered after many minutes of complete silence and glanced at the Mandalorian through the corners of your eyes. He only hummed and nodded, not turning to meet your eyes.

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The rest of your day was filled with the giggles and squeals of the Child as you played with him to distract yourself form your thoughts. You couldn't stand being in the cockpit alone with Mando today, so you had passed the time and busied yourself with caring for the kid. That was until he had fallen asleep in your arms at the end of the day, or at least you guessed another day had passed. Keeping track of it in hyperspace was still rather hard for you. You had put the little one to bed and were now standing in front of him, in front of Mando’s cot, unsure what to do. Glancing at your own bed you felt your stomach tighten. You already knew you would only turn from side to side without finding any rest in there. The only option to find any sort of sleep would be next to Mando. You sighed and climbed back up to sit down into one of the copilot seats only to almost run into the Mandalorian as the door to the cockpit slid open suddenly before you. You froze, your face only inches away from his chest. You took a deep breath before you slowly lifted your head until you could look into his visor. When he didn’t move to the side or reacted at all, you furrowed your brows at him in question. "Aren't you tired?" he asked and gently took your hand in his. It was the first time that he had talked to you today. The rest of the day had always been filled with awkward silence, something you had always feared should you ask the questions that were circling in your head, something you had wanted to prevent by staying silent, but now it was too late. He tilted his head at you when you didn't react. For a few moments you were overwhelmed and struggled for words. "Ehm, well, yeah but-" you weren't able to finish your sentence, though you weren't even sure what you had wanted to say anyway, when Mando squeezed your hand and nodded to the ladder. Understanding what he wanted to signal to you, you let your hand slip from his and began to climb back down, Mando following close behind. You were back where you had stood before, not knowing what to do. When Mando slipped his shoes off you did the same, just so you had something to occupy your mind with. When he turned to look at you, you stayed put where you were, frozen in place with your heart hammering against your ribs, begging you to let it escape. Did he really want to sleep in his armor again just so you could find some sort of relaxation, some form of comfort through his presence? Not to forget how painful it was to wake up earlier today for you, then you couldn’t possible imagine how it had to be for him. You suppressed the wince that would have spilled over your lips other wise and shook your head. Now wasn't about your comfort during sleep, but Mando's. And sleeping in armor definitely couldn’t be comfortable or even good for him. He should be able to relax in his ship and not be reminded of his job, his chaotic life through the armor he wore during the day and now at night, too.

"Isn't it uncomfortable to sleep in your armor?" you asked sincerely concerned and not just to gain some more seconds to try and sort your mind. Mando only shrugged his shoulders, while you rubbed the back of your neck that still felt a little stiff from this morning. "You don't have to-" you wanted to explain to him that he didn't have to do this for you when he would be uncomfortable as a result, that you would just try to sleep in your bed again so he felt comfortable enough to take the armor off and sleep alone in his cot. But every word got stuck in your throat when he did something you never thought your eyes would ever witness. He took off his armor, piece by piece, right in front of you. Your eyes grew wide and your mouth fell slightly open. "What-" you only managed to croak out as your eyes wandered over his form, the last piece of armor he still wore being his helmet and the rest of his clothing being what he wore underneath, a simple shirt and pants. You couldn't help yourself, you couldn't keep yourself from staring at him. His shoulders were still broad and wide even without the armor but only now did you notice his slender waist. You gulped and stopped your eyes from moving lower, bringing them back up, only for your heart to leap into your throat as you stared at his chest and arms that were now only covered by a dark, long-sleeved shirt. You already knew Mando was physically strong but the shirt did nothing to hide the muscles flexing in his arms and shoulders even when he was only standing before you. Why did you feel like he was standing bare before you when he only took his armor off and was still standing before you fully clothed? You felt your face heat up and your breath getting shallow at that thought. Your body tensed as you forced your eyes to stay on Mando's visor. You had embarrassed yourself enough already.

He hadn’t said anything when he had taken off his armor nor when he stepped closer to you, directing you backwards to the cot. When the back of your knees hit the edge you stumbled, almost falling on your back but Mando grabbed your hand and kept you upright. "Careful" he chuckled. Your face grew even hotter as you bit your lip, suppressing the mindless blabber that would have escape you otherwise. Slowly he lowered your still tilted off-center body until you found yourself on the exact same spot as yesterday. It felt rather surreal and you kept wondering if you weren’t just dreaming right now. Maybe you were still asleep? But when your eyes glanced at his exposed neck, the skin sun-kissed and flexing over his muscles in such detail, you were sure you couldn’t make this up during your sleep, that this had to be real. "Mando, I-" you began but he shushed you. "Let's just get some sleep, okay?" You nodded and stood up, letting Mando settled into his bed first. He laid down like he had yesterday, flat on his back with his arms on his stomach. For a second you hesitated, staring down at him before you followed him into the tight space, plopping down on your side with your back to him and snuggling underneath the blanket he had already draped over himself. You felt far too flustered to face him right now, especially with the lights still on. Without a word he closed the door to the cot and switched the lights off. You gulped, somehow feeling Mando's side pressed against your back even more prominently than before. You took a deep breath and closed your eyes, snuggling deeper into the blanket in an attempt to make yourself fall asleep faster. Only to suddenly realize that everything in the cot smelled like the Mandalorian, smelled like something metallic (his beskar) mixed with something earthy, something grounding, something soothing. Heat immediately rushed back into your cheeks and your body tensed. Oh Maker, how were you supposed to fall asleep now? With Mando's scent in your nose and his body tightly pressed against you, you definitely couldn't. You didn't really feel uncomfortable but to say this position did anything for your still slightly sore back and neck was also not correct. And that your heart racing uncontrollably fast didn't help you in any way either. You couldn't relax like this.

Your eyes darted around in the dark as you tried to jump over your shadow and control your rapid breathing. Then, before you could back out again, you turned around underneath the blanket so you would have faced the Mandalorian if the lights were on. He didn't react or at least as far as you were aware. He could surely be looking at you through his visor, that probably had night vision, without moving his head. You gulped before carefully placing your hand on his chest. You felt him tense underneath your touch instantly, signaling you that he wasn't asleep yet. You felt how your cheeks heated up even more when your fingers brushed his muscular chest instead of the cold, hard beskar armor you were used to by now. "Mando?" you asked quietly, your voice trembling nervously while you patiently waited for an answer even after many seconds of silence. You wanted to make sure he was comfortable enough to answer you before you tried anything else. "Yes?" he finally said and you felt his head moving beside you ever so slightly. "Are you comfortable?" you questioned further. Another few seconds of silence followed in which the only thing you could focus on was how close you were to the unarmed Mandalorian. You could feel every muscle on his chest underneath your touch, still a bit tense but slowly loosening up more and more. You could feel his soothing warmth even more, now that the beskar wasn't in the way. You bit your lip, suppressing a sigh. "It's alright" he only answered, leaving your question rather unsatisfied. You took a deep breath, trying to stop your body from shaking and forced yourself to speak up again. "I am not" you whispered and felt him tense up again underneath your touch. You felt his head move once more, probably now completely turned to face you. He didn't say anything, just stared at you through the darkness. You struggled for words for a while, unsure how to continue without making him uncomfortable, without sounding too demanding. Then you lightly shook your head as far as that was possible lying on your side next to him. "Could you-" you began but bit your lip. Collecting all the courage you had left you forced yourself to continue. "Could you turn on your side?"

You stared into the darkness, at the unmoving Mandalorian as your pulse quickened. Nobody moved and you began to fear that you had overstepped a boundary. Maker, he had taken off his armor in front of you for the very first time. This must be even more uncomfortable for him than you. You gritted your teeth, cursing at yourself. You should have stayed silent and just tried to sleep. About to apologize you opened your mouth only to suddenly feel movement beside you. Before you knew it the Mandalorian laid on his side, but not like you had expected it with his back facing you, but with his chest. Your heart leaped into your throat, leaving you breathless and unable to form the words you had wanted to say out loud. You froze, your whole body tensed up in disbelief. "Is that better?" he asked, his voice an almost inaudible whisper. "Yeah" you croaked out. The silence that followed was deafening, making the beat of your heart even more audible and you were sure Mando must have been able to hear it, too. Your brain shut off, leaving you alone in the dark, helpless. How were you supposed to sleep now?! With your eyes wide you stared in front of you, stared into the darkness where Mando's chest was, only inches away from your face. You almost yelped in panic when you noticed that your hand was still touching him, pressed against his unarmored chest. But you couldn't move away. Was your mind blank only seconds before was it now swarming and crowded with thousand of thoughts.

You flinched when you suddenly felt a featherlight touch on your waist. You needed a few seconds to process that it was Mando's un-gloved hand. "Is this okay?" he asked, his voice so soft his modulator didn't even pick it up. You realized that this was Mando's real voice, not the distorted sound of his helmet but what he would sound like without it. A shower of tingles wandered down your body, leaving you breathless. You opened and closed your mouth a few times, trying to find the words. "Ye-yeah." Mando let his arm sneak around your waist, wrapping it around you and slowly pulling you against his chest. You didn't even notice that you were the one to tangle your legs with his, it felt intuitive. Suddenly you felt really dizzy. Was this really happening right now? You grabbed Mando's shirt with your shaking fingers and buried your head in his chest in a stupid attempt to hide. Because the moment you had to take a deep breath to try and calm yourself down, you only grew even more dizzy when his scent filled your nose. You cursed silently in your mind. But even through all of this, did you notice how your body slowly relaxed under this touch and warmth. Involuntary, you let out a soft sigh and closed your eyes.

"Thank you, Mando" you managed to whisper after probably minutes of silence. The Mandalorian didn't immediately retort anything to that and instead tightened his grip on your waist and squeezed the hand of his free arm between the two of you to place it on to of your hands that were still pressed firmly against his chest. "Din." You lifted your head to look at where his eyes must be hidden behind the darkness and furrowed your brows in lack of understanding. "What?" you asked confused. "Please. Call me Din." Your eyes widen and your face grew even hotter if that was even possible at that point. He ... he just revealed his name to you? Your breath hitched. He just revealed his name to you. "Din" you tested his name on your tongue in a hushed tone. The Mandalorian went rigid as he sucked in a sharp breath and you feared you had misunderstood him but then he pressed you even closer to him, making your heart skip a beat. You gasped for air in shock when he nestled into your hair as you felt his chin on top of your head and not the cold helmet. His legs had sneaked around yours, pinning you against him but you didn't feel trapped. Quite the opposite, you actually enjoyed his tight embrace. "Din?" you asked, your voice wavering noticeably. The grip around your waist tightened for a split second as he tried to stifle his sigh, making you chuckle and melt against him. "Din" you said again with a cheeky smile on your lips. The Mandalorian growled against you, making you jump in surprise. "Are you trying to torture me, cyar'ika?" he asked, his voice husky and low. You paused, not quite understanding what he meant by that. "What-" you began, shifting in his hold so you would be looking at his face in confusion if it weren't so dark. For a few seconds you just stared and thought until your eyes widen in realization as your mind caught on. "When was the last time someone called you by your name?" you asked in a hush. "Can't remember" he answered you in a low growl as he pressed himself against you. Your cheeks burned again in an instant as you struggled for words once more. Din’s breath stuttered through the modulator, his chest heaving against yours. You wondered if his mind was as blank as yours was but then he suddenly let go of your waist and instead grabbed both of your hands before you could collect yourself enough to react to any of the things he had said, to the things he had revealed to you. For a few moments he just drew soothing circles on the backs of your hands, tracing your soft skin as if it was the first time he felt it. Then he directed them upwards and placed them on each side of his helmet. After that no one moved and you barely dared to breathe. You hadn't touched his helmet before, always far too afraid since it seemed to be the most important part of his creed. But the only thing on your mind wasn’t your surprise at that and instead you could only focus on how the coldness of the beskar underneath your hands and the warmth of Din's hand on top sent shivers down your spine.

"(Y/N)?" You hummed in response, still unable to speak up, your mind far too clouded. "You can take it off." Your body stiffened as you blinked in confusion. Did he really just say that? You must have imagined that, right? Right? "B-but your creed?" you objected, staring into the darkness. "It's okay as long as you can't see my face" he explained, squeezing your hands before leaving them alone on his helmet as he wrapped his arms back around your waist, lifting you a bit further up so you were face to face with him. Your hands were still cupping the sides of his helmet as you sucked in a sharp breath. Were you really about to do this? It felt wrong even though he had asked you to. It felt … intimate. "Please, cyar'ika. Let me be close to you." Din's pleading voice and the foreign nickname send shivers down your spine. Your breath hitched as you pushed all your worries to the side and slowly lifting the helmet up. Its hiss echoed in your ears as you held your breath, your heart beating so strong you felt it in your throat. You pushed it up over his hair that brushed your hands, leaving tingles behind. Then you placed the helmet to the side and gasped when you felt Din's breath on your face. The sensation left you dizzy as your heart began to drum relentlessly against your chest. Your hands felt useless as they floated in the air, not knowing where to put them. For many seconds you didn’t dare to move before you squeezed one of your hands back between the two of you, placing it on his chest before taking a deep breath.

"Can I?" you asked in a whisper, your other hand hovering over where his cheek must be hiding in the darkness. A soft "Yeah" escaped Din's mouth and you didn't waste another second and gently placed your hand on his face. The sensation and his warmth left you with a feeling you couldn’t quite place or understand. Slowly you began to outline his features, let your hand wander from his chin up to his ear, feeling his strong jar and the slight stubble that adorned it. The combined feeling of his surprisingly soft skin and rougher stubble left you breathless. You let your hand placed on his cheek for a few moments, trying to collect your thoughts and failing miserably. You sucked in a sharp breath and carefully continued to let your fingers wander to his forehead, tracing his eyebrow you felt how his eyes fluttered close. Then your touch traveled back down, mapping out the shape of his nose. In the end your fingers hovered over his lips and you felt his breath against them as they trembled. Gently you placed them on his chin and felt your way up to his bottom lip. You traced the outline of his mouth in a trance and when he chuckled against you, you didn’t even flinch and joined in. Your fingers found their way further up, to the corner of his lips, feeling the stubble above his lips form into a mustache. You chuckled again. He took your breath away. "Beautiful" you whispered as you continued to caress the corner of his mouth. You felt it crinkle up in a smile as Din laughed, the rumble of it vibrating in your chest, the sound hypnotizing you. "Mesh'la" he responded in a hushed tone, as he drew your faces closer. You weren't sure what the word meant but you didn't really care right now. His scent so metallic yet earthy, so soft yet sensual and warm it left you breathless and with your thoughts spinning, craving more. Your heart hammered against your ribs, screaming and begging for a few more millimeters, only a small push forward. You were sure Din was able to feel the echo of your heart against his own chest. He shifted lightly against you, wrapping his legs around you more, and tightening his grip on your waist, drawing your body even closer even though not a single hair could fit in between you two anymore. Your sleepiness was completely forgotten by now as you stared into the darkness, not able to close your eyes even though you couldn't even see anything. But you didn't need your eyes to see him, to know how beautiful he was. He lowered his head, placing his forehead against yours. You were glad to note that you weren't the only one whose breath stuttered over your lips at that. You couldn't help but melt into him, soaking in his warmth and the feeling of comfort, the feeling of belonging right there with him. Feeling like this was all that life was, feeling safe and protected. At peace. You let your hand wander to his hair, burying your fingers into his locks. The slight tug made Din growl once more, the sound low and dangerous, teasing and daring you to continue. You smiled and brushed his hair back, taking part in the game he dared you to play with him, no matter the consequences. You wanted to see what he would do, you wanted more. All those months of faint touches, whispers of being close to one another, had left you even more touch-starved then before, even more desperate. You didn’t care for the unspoken boundaries anymore. You just wanted to let yourself fall into your desire, a desire Din seemed to share. Slowly one of his hands crept up the back of your neck to also bury his fingers in your hair. The sensation made you gasp and your hair stand on end. You were sure Din was grinning at that, proud and pleased. Out of instinct you freed one of your legs from his and draped it over his waist, seeking to be even closer to him, even though his whole body was already pressed against you and his lips so close that you could feel the ghost of his breath on yours. It made you shiver in anticipation. Pressing your forehead even more against his you took a deep breath, taking in his soothing scent. Only a few millimeters more and you would have the closeness you sought. Only a few millimeters closer to fulfill the whishes of your heart. Only a few millimeters closer and you would have known how his lips felt dancing against your own.

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Tigaanur Series: Part 1 | Part 2 (you’re here!) | Part 3 | MASTERLIST

No kisses, hehehehe. Want to have a third part with them kissing? ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°) Then leave a comment and reblog! Feedback is always highly appreciated, it keeps me motivated and I’d just like to know what y’all think and if you liked it!

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Taglists:

Permanent Simps: @buckysalefty​​ / ...

Din Djarin Simps: ... looking for members! ...

If you want to be added to any taglist just write me a message!

[peachithings]

Move In With Us (M)

Main Story // The Series Masterlist

Summary: Deciding to spice up a bit with the date of the move-in day is only a few days away, you decided to upload daily vlogs with no specific time hence, surprising your viewers.

Pairing: Jaehyun x Reader

Words: 6.6K

Genre: established relationship au, idol!jaehyun, youtuber!reader, fluff, smut

Warning/s: tooth-rotting fluff, huge amount of monologue, smut in the form of oral: fem & male receiving, cum eating, squirting, multiple orgasms, unprotected sex (wrap it before you tap it, people!), excessive use of baby, purely unedited (if there is anything that I missed, please do tell me so that I could add it here)

Author’s Note/s: I know this chapter is long overdue :( I’m sorry it’s just that I got caught up finding a job but no need to worry, ya girl is now employed! wohoo, hehe Anywaaays, this chapter takes place in between all those furniture shopping that will happen on the next chapter’s vlog, lol i hope that makes sense like it made sense in my head hahahaha

I hope you’ll enjoy this chapter as well! 

tags: @seodojaezz @keeach @hyunniebuns @jaehyvnsvalentine @sunshinedhyuck @bts7aus @gyukult @tobiobb  (pls tag or message me if you would like to be included in the taglist!)

                                      »»————-　♡　————-««

Jaehyun is very busy promoting alongside NCT 2020 for their recent unit on the Resonance album. And when the opportunity to spend even the tiniest bit of time with him came to present itself, you couldn’t be more than happier to grab that opportunity with your boyfriend hence, the title of your newly premiered vlog on your channel.

Upload 01, D-3  

Finally Some Quality Time with the Boyfriend

The vlog started off with you sitting in the car with the angle where you could be seen on the driver side of the vehicle which was something new to your viewers since, in your past uploads, Jaehyun would usually be the one they see driving. A few seconds later, you turn to the camera and waved. Speaking to the camera you said, “Well, isn’t this a new sight, right?” still eyes on the road, making a turn. “As you’ve probably read by the title of this video, I’ll be spending some much-awaited quality time with Jaehyun today,” you continued with a smile plastered on your face. “You guys probably think that I look like an idiot smiling while I have my eye on the road, but I’m just very happy to be able to spend time with him,” you said as you slowly push the brakes to stop. “I usually drive with some music on, but today, I wanted to have a conversation with you lot without me having to suddenly sing or dance in front of the camera.” you laughed. “Anyways, today,” you trailed off. “I’ll be working out with Jaehyun. We usually work out together but since his schedule is packed and cannot comply with the workout schedule we had previously, I had been working out by myself since my friends are all currently overseas. Which is, by far, the most demotivating thing for me because honestly, who wants to workout alone, right?” you ranted. “I would always see comments about how I don’t get fat even if I eat a lot on my socials, and lemme tell y’all, it’s all about having good foundations!” you exclaimed, still keeping your eyes on the road. “Before I would only eat without having any control, I was even satisfying my cravings in the middle of the night which led me to gradually gain a lot of weight. For a whole year during that time, I was ashamed of myself, I didn’t have any confidence about my body,” you confessed. “Until I couldn’t take it; I didn’t want to feel bad about myself anymore. So, I started to apply for a gym membership first and tried to be as consistent as possible in going to the gym and workout with a trainer. Then, I started to change the way I eat, in terms of portioning though. With cravings, I still satisfy them. You don’t need to restrict yourselves and most importantly, you do not need to punish yourselves. I also make it a point to listen to my body.” you informed.

After about thirty minutes of driving, “Okay, we’ve arrived. I just need to park my car,” you announced while finding a parking space. 

The next scene transitioned to you reaching out to the back seat to get your bag. Then, taking the camera off the dashboard and turning off the engine. As you went out of your car, you said, “I have now arrived and parked my car, I’m off to meet Jaehyun inside now. This is not my first time here in this gym, most of the artists under SM actually go here, well, that’s what Jaehyun told me though, so I couldn’t really vouch for him since I have not encountered any on the little times I’ve gone here.”

Walking inside, you were greeted by your boyfriend sitting on a stool looking gorgeous in a black sleeveless shirt paired with some cotton track pants while talking to someone that looks like his trainer. Damn, he looks so good, you thought.

While you point the camera towards his direction, zooming in whilst he was meeting you halfway, “Hey, babe,” he greeted with a smile plastered on his face that was clearly caught on camera.

Getting closer to each other, you went in for a hug saying, “I missed you,” the pout evident in the tone of your voice. He chuckles at your sulkiness and replies, “I missed you too, love,” while untangling yourselves from the hug.

He then led you to where he was earlier, “Love, this is Hansung. He’s going to be our trainer today.” You nodded in response to Jaehyun. He then proceeded to introduce you, “Ssaem, this is my girlfriend, Y/N.” 

“Nice to meet you, seonsaengnim,” You smiled at Hansung while extending your arm as an indication to shake hands. He nodded and replied, “You too, I’ve heard a lot about you.”

“I do hope that they are nothing but good stuff,” You laughed. “Seeing that all the members are very fond of you, I’m pretty sure they’re all from good intentions,” He smiled. The video then continued on a time-lapse of you and Jaehyun working out together, messing with each other a bit here and there. There was also a cute little scene that you’ve included because even you felt that it was such a sweet little moment that is worth sharing.

The scene includes the two of you in the frame together. You were doing a set of kettlebell swings while Jaehyun was sitting on a nearby bench and was just fondly looking at you with hearts in his eyes. It’s one of the purest things you’ve ever witnessed. how can one be this attracted to adore you while you were looking a mess and about to collapse from exhaustion, you thought. And watching it made your heart flutter because right then and there, you knew in your heart and mind that this man called Jaehyun is the right man for you.

The vlog then smoothly transitioned to you in the car fixing the camera’s position on the dashboard, freshly out from the shower with your hair still damp and uncombed. Once you’ve found the right position and angle, you pulled out your wet brush from your gym bag that you’ve placed on the passenger seat’s floorboard.

You began brushing your hair while you spoke to the camera and said, “Well, I’m back,” eyeing Jaehyun from the outside, making some weird faces for you, making you giggle.

“Jaehyun is outside of my car, making some weird faces,” You said, taking the camera in your hand and point it towards your goofy boyfriend while gradually zooming in on his face. When he saw that you were filming him, he stopped and went over to open the door in the back seat, putting his gym bag on the back seat’s floorboard. He then closed the door and went over to the driver’s seat, “Hi, everyone, babe,” greeting the camera with a smile, then leaning in, to peck your cheeks.

After putting the camera back on the dashboard, you proceeded to transfer your gym bag to the back seat’s floorboard to make room for your legs. “Babe, do you want some pancakes for breakfast? Or...” Jaehyun asked while using the camera’s viewfinder as his mirror. “Would you prefer to have some steak?” He continued.

“I don’t know,” You trailed off. “They’re both my favorites, I’m having a hard time picking,” You pout. Jaehyun chuckled in response and said, “I’ll pick, then?”

With a smile, you replied, “Yes, please.”

You adjusted yourself on your seat while Jaehyun was adjusting the side mirrors, getting ready to drive off. After, you quickly spoke to the camera, “I’m back in the passenger seat because Jaehyun clearly does not trust me to drive,” as you rolled your eyes at him. You were taken aback by his action, he leaned over to your side and grabbed the seatbelt and buckled you up first then, looked at the camera and said, “Chivalry is not dead, people,” and smiled with his pearly whites.

Jaehyun drove off to the breakfast place that you both go to frequently while you kept talking to the camera. Solely because you wanted to keep yourself from annoying the hell out of Jaehyun that may or may not cause disastrous chaos to unveil. 

Jaehyun on the other hand, was caught in the frame adoring you every chance he gets which is usually when he stops because of the traffic light obviously going red. 

Getting nearer to the destination, you suddenly thought of checking the photo Jaehyun posted on his instagram account in which he tagged you in.

“I’m checking the photo Jaehyun tagged me in on his instagram post,” speaking to the camera then glaring at Jaehyun. You then, showed that said post to the camera and said, “By the time this vlog is up, you’ve already seen the post but I’m just going to say it here; Johnny, Doyoung, how dare you?!” and laughed. “Also, this is going to be proof that I did finish the workout session.”

The post in question:

_jeongjaehyun: @ynsphotoroll’s post-workout situation

ynsphotoroll commented: deadass cannot move 😩 this all your fault for requesting another set 😑

johnnyjsuh commented: lol, bet this was @ynsphotoroll in just 30 minutes through the workout

ynsphotoroll replied to johnnjysuh: heck, no! this was shot after the whole sesh

do0_nct replied to johnnyjsuh: we all know she can’t do a whole workout session even to save herself 🤣

johnnyjsuh liked do0_nct s comment.

ynsphotoroll replied to do0_nct: okay, that was downright mean :( babe, welp? 🥺 @_jeongjaehyun

_jeongjaehyun replied to your comment: no can do, love. you said this was all my fault 🤷🏻‍♂️

ynsphotoroll replied to _jeongjaehyun: should i lock you out, then?

do0_nct replied to ynsphotoroll: ooh, @_jeongjaehyun you’re on your own now bud

johnnyjsuh replied to ynsphotoroll: see you in hell, @_jeongjaehyun

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In just a few seconds, the vlog then transitioned to the both of you inside the diner, sitting side by side with the camera placed in front of you and waiting for your orders to get served.

“We’re here at Y/N’s favorite diner,” Jaehyun spoke. “She loves this place more than me, I think?” He joked.

“Mhm, Yes. I definitely do.” You laughed, joking back at him. In response, he acted hurt and started sulking. “Awe, babe,” You said pouting while scooting closer to kiss his cheek. “You know, I love you. But this place serves all-freaking-day breakfast?!” You exclaimed. “You do get very excited for breakfast,” He said, looking at you fondly as if you were the most adorable thing in the world. On second thought, the nearest description of this would be like how agnes purely adores unicorns. He then looked back at the camera and continued, “She loves breakfast. Thinking about it now, I bet if she were to eat only one of the three meals of the day, no doubt, she’d definitely pick anything on the breakfast menu.” You nodded in agreement, “Well, he is definitely not wrong,”

In a few minutes, seeing the waiter walked towards the table you and Jaehyun were seated, your facial expression changed and it was all caught on camera. Your expression changed from that poker face you’re sporting that one can misunderstand, translating it to “I’m the baddest bitch, whatchu gonna do ‘bout it?” kind of aura while you were looking through your phone when in reality, in your mind, it just screams “Where the hell is my food? I’m fucking hungry.” to an expression closely distinguished to an expression mixed of excitement and giddiness of a child getting a present on Christmas day with those shiny doe eyes of yours. Which was, if I may say, a whole hundred-eighty-degree-turn from that resting bitch face of yours. To those that might have not understood, let's just say that you were drooling over the smell and food itself like you haven’t eaten in days. Or maybe that was overly dramatic and whatnot but Jaehyun was and is a hundred percent smitten in all the things you do. And when I say all, I meant each and everything. Even in the tiniest thing you do. He completely adores you, just like the most perfectly imperfect boyfriend he is to you. And all those were completely caught on the camera for you to cherish and happy to share with everyone.

“And that, ladies and gents, is what my love looks like when food is about to be served,” Jaehyun said facing the camera and eventually breaking you out of your trance. In response to his statement, you swiftly punched his chest with your palm but in a very very soft way. But being his overly dramatic self, he exaggerated his reaction as if your soft punch had hurt him badly. “Stop being dramatic, Yoonoh,” you said sternly. On cue with you calling him by his legal name, he stopped and immediately showing affection towards you making you giggle. “Guys, I’ve learned this, the hard way; when she starts to call me by my legal name, she is dead serious and I should just comply with what she says, just so that I could stay out of trouble,” he started. “Because she’s really scary when she gets pissed or angry. This is not an exaggeration, even the boys got scared of her. And that was the last time we pissed her off. Also, I firmly believe on the saying: happy wife, happy life,” Jaehyun laughed. “You make me look like a bad person,” you pouted at your boyfriend. Jaehyun pouted back at you and replies, “You’re not bad, love. I love you, just the way you are,” kissing your forehead as he post something on his Instagram account to which your phone notified you.

_jeongjaehyun tagged you in a post.

_jeongjaehyun: swipe right to see @ynsphotoroll and I’s post-workout meal 😋

ynsphotoroll liked your post.

do0_nct commented: no wonder @ynsphotoroll is the way she is

ynsphotoroll replied to do0_nct: what’s that supposed to mean??

do0_nct replied to ynsphotoroll: it means you’re getting fat

ynsphotoroll replied to do0_nct: i’m not??? 

taeoxo_nct replied to do0_nct: stop bullying y/n

_jeongjaehyun replied to do0_nct: hyung, don’t you dare hurt my love

do0_nct replied to taeoxo_nct: i’m blocking you, you know i can’t say no to you

do0_nct replied to _jeongjaehyun: fine, i’m sorry @ynsphotoroll

ynsphotoroll replied to do0_nct: ily, let’s eat out soon :-(

do0_nct liked your reply.

do0_nct replied to ynsphotoroll: dm me, i’m buying

_jeongjaehyun replied to ynsphotoroll: babe what about me 

_jeongjaehyun replied to ynsphotoroll: on second thought, @do0_nct hyung ily

“Doyoung oppa is bullying me again,” you spoke to the camera while you put down your phone on the table and began eating the food served in front of you. “Everyone, please don’t misunderstand Doyoung oppa, and I’s bickering,” you plead while you took a bite off the spoon. “It’s just how we really are, that’s how we bond,” you giggled.

“Babe,” Jaehyun called. “Let's eat first,” he said. You nodded while getting excited to take another spoon full, leaving a little sauce on the corner of your lips. To which your boyfriend giggled at then, wiped with a tissue.

“Well, you guys heard the boss,” you joked. “We’ll eat first, and come back later,” you continued then, cover the lens with your hand.

Signifying another transition with you uncovering the lens, no longer at the diner nor in your car. The change of venue is recognizable as your apartment because of the couch behind you.

“Okay, as you guys probably noticed,” you started. “We’re now in my apartment, which I would say goodbye to, soon,” you said, adoring the room. “We actually arrived about an hour ago? Or so,” you continued. “We decided to continue packing and decide on which furniture we’re going to sell. The mattress and bed frame, definitely I will sell then, post them as a story on Instagram with the prices.”

The first ‘daily vlog’ continued on in a classic time-lapse manner of you and Jaehyun packing your stuff and organizing them in different boxes that are labeled to which room is which. After, Jaehyun was seen getting your trusty Deerma vacuum and plugging it in then handing it to you. You started to vacuum the apartment while he carried the boxes to the side and stacked them up.

By the time you were finished, the sun was starting to set. So, you quickly repositioned the camera and angled it towards your window where Jaehyun sat. Since the camera was against the light, the scene was perfectly captured with your silhouette where you rest your head on your boyfriend’s shoulder. A few frames after, he was seen kissing the top of your head then resting his head on yours as the sun sets, darkness starts to set in signifying that the vlog has come to an end as well.

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Upload 02, D-2  

A Day in My Life

Starting the vlog, shows a view of your makeshift workspace. Then, out of nowhere, you screamed, “Surprise!” making you giggle for the little stunt that you had done a few seconds back.

“Because let’s face it, there’s nothing more surprising than yelling surprise,” you joked. “Jokes aside, you guys might probably be surprised because of this sudden upload of a new vlog,” pausing for a moment to gather your thoughts making sure to not accidentally slip any confidential information for the time being. “I guess this is my way of saying, I appreciate all of you without me actually saying it?” laughing at your own excuse. “In this surprise vlog today, I’ll show you somewhat a day with me looks like.”

You took the camera from the tripod, holding it up with your hand. “I actually just woke up a few minutes ago, and the time now is fifteen minutes past eight in the morning,” you informed. “The first thing I do when I wake up is make and drink coffee,” lifting your cute mug to show everyone that you’ve made coffee and is now drinking it. “To the people who follow me on Instagram, this mug might be very familiar with you,” you started. “I’ve used this mug quite frequently for flat lay and drinking coffee or tea. But there is another reason why this mug is my favorite,” you paused, to sip coffee from the mug. “It’s actually because Jaehyun made this mug,” you started, sipping from the mug again. “It was during our second date, I booked us a studio in a pottery shop that I go to frequently and we both made a mug for each other. But it was not matching though.”

You continued to drink your coffee, occasionally dipping white bread in then, eating it. After finishing your cup of coffee, you immediately washed the things you used and putting them on your drying rack beside your kitchen sink.

“That is usually what I eat for breakfast, whenever I’m not going to the gym in the morning. After breakfast, I take a bath. It’s honestly just a personal preference to start my day, it gives me a refreshed feeling. So that’s what I’m going to do now,” you informed.

“I’m back,” singing to the camera, with your hair still wrapped in a towel and a robe on. “As you can probably see, I’ve just finished taking a bath,” pausing for a moment while gesturing the get-up you were sporting. “Thinking about it now, I don’t think I have shown you guys my skincare routine yet,” you said rummaging through a drawer of your vanity for a cotton pad and reaching for your toner. “This is the toner that I will use today. I’ve used it for years now, this is a holy grail,” showing the product to the camera, making sure that the camera had focused on it. “This is Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Toner; absolutely love the watermelon scent it has which is not too overwhelming. Though it’s on the pricier side, it does its job pretty well,” you informed reaching out to gather a few more toners on your vanity. “I do have here other toners that are on the cheaper side,” pausing for moment, checking each bottle if it was the correct ones. “The first one is Krave Beauty Kale-lalu-yAHA which is just a few dollars cheaper, next one is Purito Centella Green Level Calming Toner and the last one, Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Hyaluronic Toner,” showing the products one by one to the camera. “I haven’t disclosed this in any of my videos before, but I do have acne-prone skin. So, all the products I have mentioned are all suited for acne-prone or sensitive skin.”

You poured enough Watermelon Glow to soak the cotton pad and started to wipe it all over your face, “Before, when I was just starting out with skincare, I would have really bad breakouts which led me to go and book an appointment with a dermatologist so that I could further understand the situation of my skin. I also used to get backne too,” you informed making sure that you also put the toner on your neck too. “Getting facials once or twice a month also helped me greatly... There are also some months that I couldn’t go to have my facial so, I make sure that I have a stock of Neogen’s exfoliating pads in my bathroom or in my luggage when I travel. I use the Neogen one, maybe once or twice a week,” you shared. “Oh?! I almost forgot I do double cleanse. The first cleanser is oil-based and the second one is CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser,” you said while allowing the toner to dry first before you continue the next step of your routine. Putting back the toners on their rightful places on your vanity, you babbled, “This is my Virgo self, always wanting to have my things organized and clean.” 

“Moving on and skipping essence, after toner, I put on a very hydrating moisturizer,” you shared and getting the moisturizers that you will share. “Today, I’ll be using A by Bom Blue Cica Azulene Dew Soothing Hydration which is another on the pricier side but since my skin has been very dry lately, I need all the moisture I could get right now and this product delivers!” you started to rant. “Plus, since it is in a gel form; it does not come off as greasy or whatnot and it is perfect for when the weather is hot or during the summer,” you continued while lathering the moisturizer on your face and neck. “Also, a little goes a long way with this moisturizer. I have been using this for two months now and it’s still quite full,” you added. Allowing the product to dry, you decided to mention the alternatives you have, “For alternatives, I have here,” pausing for a moment. “The CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion; texture-wise, it is in between a gel and a lotion so it’s also a good morning moisturizer. Another one, Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion; this is a good moisturizer for both the face and body. These moisturizers are tried and tested to be very moisturizing on the skin,” you informed. 

“For serums, I usually use it at night only. The only serum I use is The Ordinary Ascorbic Acid 8% + Alpha Arbutin 2%,” you shared. “I put on sunscreen even when I’m not going out, and the sunscreen I use is either Supergoop Mattescreen Sunscreen SPF40 or Purito Centella Green Level Safe. I don’t have any other alternatives because they are literally the only ones I use,” you giggled. “I also use face masks every night to give my skin extra moisture and during winter I use face masks twice a day.” 

The vlog then transitioned to a time-lapse of you in your very comfy loungewear; a maroon ribbed crop top paired with your trusty gray sweatpants, pacing around the kitchen and cooking yourself some lunch. Then putting your lunch on a plate and head off to your almost empty living room, placing your lunch on the coffee table and opening your laptop to watch some Netflix.

“I’m currently outside, I’m heading to the grocery,” you informed while you were walking with the camera in your hand. “But before going to the grocery, I decided to take a little stroll to get my body moving and to help me digest the lunch I had,” you laughed. “Jaehyun will be coming over tonight so I’m going to buy some ingredients for our dinner tonight,” pausing a few seconds to look at where you were going, “Well, and some midnight snacks; none other than the good ol’ ramen.” 

The vlog then continued to a time-lapse of your little stroll and grocery shopping until you get home and start to prepare for dinner. Still in your comfy loungewear, putting on an apron over it, you brought the butter out from the refrigerator, settling it on the side and started to chop some onions and garlics. The main course tonight; your infamous steak. The boys loved it the last time you cooked it for them, your own boyfriend included. And for desert, you bought a Tres Leches cake in that cute little cafe near your apartment complex and placed it inside the fridge to keep it cooled. 

You then turned on your stove to pre-heat the skillet pan you’ll be using as well as the exhaust hood, and started to marinate the steaks with salt and pepper, leaving it to the side. You also bought some sweet potatoes in the supermarket a while, knowing that Jaehyun loves them, you decided to roast some in the oven.

For the main course, you started off with melting the butter on the pan. Once the butter has melted, you put in some onion and a whole lot of garlic then placing the steaks in using metal tongs, pressing down across top surface of steaks to ensure the entire bottom surface is making direct contact with skillet. While waiting for the bottom of the steak to turn brown, you opted to quickly clean up your kitchen counter. Flipping the steaks and continue to cook the other side, you continued to clean up. After a few minutes, you reduced the heat. And by that time, you were done cleaning up the counter and all that’s left is to wash the utensils and plated you’ve used to prepare. And that was when Jaehyun came into the frame; he was seen putting on the rubber gloves that rested on your kitchen sink and started to wash the dishes while you keep an eye on the steak.

The video then transitioned to you and Jaehyun setting up the food on your coffee table in your living room. The video continued on a normal paced manner when you were both eating, talking, and laughing with a faint background music playing over the video. 

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Upload 03, D-1

The Truth

Take one: “I actually don’t know how to start today’s vlog,” tou started with a frown on your face.

*bleep*

Take two: “This is what’s going on behind the camera, the truth is,” seriousness and sadness evident in the tone of your voice.

*bleep*

Take three: “I honestly don’t know how will I say the truth to you guys,” with tears that were threatening to escape from your eyes, now pouring down your face. You took a tissue from your tissue box on the table to wipe the tears staining your face.

*bleep*

“Hello, everyone! Welcome back to my channel,” you said enthusiastically signifying the real beginning of the vlog. “How was the intro?” you quizzed, eyebrows wiggling. “It’s actually just a little skit,” Jaehyun laughed in the background, “You might as well just audition for a part, you’ll surely be casted. Because wow, that crying was very believable,” he continued with a hint of amazement evident in his voice. “Thank you for your kind words, sir,”

“Oh, sir?” you saw him wiggle his brows behind the camera. “I kind of like hearing you address me like that,” he responded in his deep voice, being sultry in the background. You rolled your eyes at him, knowing very well that there’s a double meaning in what he said. “You do know that they’re going to catch on what you just said, right?” you scolded him. “I’m going to laugh at you when this whole thing gets meme'd, gif’d or whatever. You’re never going to live up to this, I swear,” Jaehyun just laughed at you in response to your rambling.

“Okay,” you sighed. “Kidding aside, this will actually be some kind of a sit-down video wherein I tell you guys my future plans and whatnot,” you started. “Some kind of get ready with me or like a story telling video of some sorts,” you continued to ramble.

“Jaehyun is here because he stayed over last night because while we having dinner I just sold my sofa. The buyer and I agreed that she could pick it up here in my apartment complex, and Jaehyun, being the best boyfriend he is,” pausing for a quick second to wink at him behind the camera, making him laugh. “He decided to stay over and help with carrying the sofa down to the lobby. And may I say how adorable she looked when she saw Jaehyun,” pausing again to put a hand over your heart, reminiscing what happened this morning. “These fan interactions with Jaehyun are always so adorable to me, they make you feel all warm and fuzzly inside; if you guys know what I mean,” with eyes twinkling from pure adoration of those moment, “It’s definitely one of those feel-good moments, don’t you guys think so?”

“But that is not actually what I’m supposed to talk about today,” in you said in a serious tone. “Lol, sorry about that, this is not that serious though,” you continued. “I can’t believe that I was able contain my excitement over this in the surprise vlogs I’ve uploaded recently,”

With a smile plastered on your face and excitement in your eyes, “We’re finally moving, tomorrow!” you announced. Jaehyun coming into the frame, champagne and two mugs on hand. He poured the champagne to the mugs to celebrate with you, “She was really excited to tell you guys this, but that is not only the announcement we have today,” Jaehyun started. “I also have an announcement to make. It has been months since it was confirmed with the cast, but I’m here to confirm it to you guys, to my beloved Czennies, that yes, I am indeed a part of the cast for KBS’ new drama series, Dear.M,” he said with happiness in his eyes and a smile on his face.

                                        »»————-　♡　————-«« 

Upload 04, D-Day

Move In With Us

“It’s finally D-day guys!” you sang to the intro.

“I’m sad to say goodbye to my apartment,” you pouted, changing the subject of the lens from you to your empty apartment. “It’s around brunch time now, but we still haven’t eaten yet. We’re probably going to eat when we’ve settled in to our new home. And yes, of course, we’re going to get jajangmyeon delivered because... I don’t know, I’ve always heard that when you move into a new apartment the first thing you should eat is jajangmyeon, but nit so sure about what it really means,” you rambled while taking a quick tour of the apartment before you bid farewell. “Jaehyun and Tyong oppa are here, they’ve brought the boxes down to their cars. As for my furnitures, I’ve sold all of them. Jaehyun and I actually bought some already in Ikea, to which you’ll be able to see on the next vlog,” you winked at the camera, “I gotchu guys,”

Walking back over to the living room, “Anyways, the big furnitures we bought are going to be delivered some time this week but the small decors we actually already left it at the new apartment a few days ago,”

Jaehyun entered to the apartment and said, “Babe, you ready?” You nodded to him in response, snaking your arms to his torso and said, “Goodbye, house. Thank you, you’ve been so good to me.”

The video transitioned smoothly to the scenery outside of the car and then to you, Jaehyun and Taeyong taking the boxes inside the new apartment. After, Taeyong bid farewell to the two of you and hugged you both. Then transitioned to the both of you unwrapping the plastics from the jajangmyeon’s packaging. It showed the two of eating on the floor, in front of the windows as the sun sets yet again. The next scene was Jaehyun unwrapping what seems to be a deflated mattress that quickly inflated as soon as the plastic was torn apart with the caption in the middle of the video saying, “And with that, we spent our first night dreaming of our future together,”

The vlog ends as the video fades to black.

While you were editing the Move In With Us vlog that you just published on your channel, you were shocked that the last footage on the SD card from your camera lasted for quite a few hours. And then it suddenly hits you, but you didn’t believe it not until you’ve seen it with your own two eyes. In which you’ve regretted watching as soon as the obscene actions started, instantly taking you back to what had happened during your first night together. The scene vividly captures each and every move in a whopping 4K quality.

It started with a passionate kiss that slowly turns into a sloppy and messy one. You moaned through the kiss as you feel the wetness that starts to pool in between your legs. A few moments later, slowly pulling away from the kiss, you smirked at your boyfriend and pushing him to the mattress that laid on the floor, quickly hovering above him and his eyes only focused on yours. Wasting not another second, he kissed you again, his hands roaming all over your body, feeling every inch and every curve while mumbling, “You’re so fucking beautiful, babe.”

Your lips started to leave open mouth kisses as you traveled down to his jaw, his neck, to his chest. Your mouth found their way to his nipples, gently sucking; earning a moan from your boyfriend. “I want to suck your cock,” while your mouth moved towards his other nipple, giving it the same attention as the other. “Fuck...” he groaned. “Show me what that pretty mouth can do,”

It was the go signal. And like a child excited getting excited for a piece of candy, you quickly went down his torso, unbuckling his belt and taking off his pants, you greeted by his now hard cock standing as if it was saying hi to you. “Fuck, baby. I still can’t get used to seeing your cock after all this time,” your mouth watered at that sinful sight. Licking the precum on his tip, “You’re so big, baby,” Earning yet another sinful moan. You took his length, bobbing your head slowly keeping eye contact with him. “You look so hot with your mouth stuffed with my cock,” Bobbing your head a bit faster, hollowing your cheeks making him moan at the pleasure you were giving. A few moments later, your bobs sped up with one hand helping you pump his length and the other toying with his balls, your eyes never leaving his. “Just like that baby,” taking his length further down your throat. “Shit,” you moaned at the sight, sending vibrations against his cock. His hands, intertwining with your hair as you choke on his cock. “Fuck, babe. I’m gonna cum,” With every bob of your head, you take him in further, making him explode from pleasure your mouth was providing him. Like the good girl you are, you swallowed everything he gave. Opening your mouth to show him, “Shit, babe, you’re fucking amazing. Let me return the favor, yeah?”

Jaehyun discarded his shirt on the floor while you were giving him a private strip tease that got him hornier resulting in him getting hard again for you. And you noticed; you most definitely fucking noticed and it turned you on even more making you wetter than you originally were. Your pussy was so wet that it was already pouring down your legs which definitely did not go unnoticed by Jaehyun. “Baby, you’re dripping for me,”

Jaehyun pulled you in his embrace, making you straddle his lap and as soon as you did his lips were quickly attached on neck leaving a love bite or two before moving over to your soft mounds. Taking one to his mouth sucking gently while the other gets equal attention from his hands, earning a whimper from you. His mouth then found its way to the other mound tending the same way he did earlier. Flipping you over to the bed, with him now hovering above you. He made his way down in between your legs, “Your smell intoxicates me baby,” You moaned loudly to his cold breath that radiated towards your cunt. Getting impatient, craving for his touch, you suddenly jerked your cunt towards his face. “Baby, please...” you whimpered. “Please, what baby?” you whined, wanting even the slightest of friction. “I want you, baby. Eat me out, put your fingers inside me, anything. Just please touch me,” you begged. And without any warning, Jaehyun slowly licked a stripe on your folds. You whimpered at his action. He then starts to devour your cunt like an animal who hasn’t eaten in days; licking and flicking your clit, he inserted his middle finger and began to slowly pump it in and out of your heat. You were already a moaning mess by the time he adds another finger, “I feel your pussy pulsating, you close, hm?” you whimpered in response. Pumping his finger faster while stimulating your clit with his thumb, eyes fixated on your face as if he was memorizing each and every reaction your face contorts. “Come for me, baby,” he encouraged. The knot that formed in your abdomen threatening to unfold, “C’mon baby, look at me when you come for me,” and that was the last straw, the knot in your abdomen unraveled making you see stars while you release spurts of liquid on your boyfriend’s face. “That,” your boyfriend in disbelief, “was definitely fucking hot!”

You were exhausted from your orgasm but Jaehyun was clearly not yet done with you as he cleaned up your juices with his mouth and tongue making you whimpered from overstimulation. “Those beautiful sounds that come out your mouth makes me want to fuck you to oblivion,” he growled.

“Show me how it’s done, baby,” urging him on.

Still hovering above you, he aligned his shaft to your folds, slowly pushing it in, “Fuck, you’re so tight,” you moaned at the way his length was filling you up pefectly; your walls perfectly hogging his length. “Please, move,” you moaned.

His thrusts started off slow, appreciating the feel of your walls around his length. “You feel so good, baby,” you moaned, urging him to go faster. You wrapped your legs on his waist, wanting him to go deeper. Both of your moans fill up the empty bedroom. That familiar knot starting to form again, you clenched on his length. “Shit, baby. If you keep doing that I’m gonna blow my load in you,” you didn’t know why but his words made your cunt clench, “Do it, I’m on the pill,” you urged. He flipped you over him, loving the way he manhandles you in the bedroom. “Ride me,”

And ride him you did. With the new position allowing him to perfectly hit your gspot while bounce on his cock as if your depended on it. Using him to catch your own release. “Fuck, yeah. Baby,” he moaned, making you whimper. He thrusts his hips upwards to meet yours, and it made you a moaning mess, hitting your gspot over and over again. The knot came unraveling once again, screaming his name as you spurt your juices on your boyfriend’s body. Jaehyun waited for a few minutes so that you could come down from you high. And when you did, he thrusted his length in your pussy with his pace unmatched. Another knot forming in your abdomen, making you whimper as he use your cunt, mercilessly fucking you to oblivion. Within a few minutes, his thrusts became sloppier as he comes closer to his release, painting your walls white with the ropes of cum he released in your cunt. Milking himself dry with your cunt, he thrusts once more, untying the knot that had build up, squirting on him again.

“That was fucking amazing,” you sighed. “No, baby. YOU are amazing,” he replied.

Jaehyun took care of you after, running a warm bath for the both of you, lathering your body with soap, dressing you up in your pajamas and even combing and blow drying your hair.

It was the perfect way to end the first night together in your new home with your best boyfriend.

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&lt; previous // next >

Main Story // The Series Masterlist

Author’s Note/s: I do hope you enjoyed this chapter, as always feedbacks are always appreciated, you can send then in my ask. It keeps me motivated to write.

Also, you can send me a coffee and leave a feedback hehe

[bbhkjiexofics]

FORGIVENESS IS NOT A GAME - CHAPTER 1

Summary:

You were just trying to forget. Forget the past, forget the pain, forget everything, and start anew. Until nine boys come rushing into your life, pulling you out of your loneliness and past traumas. But out of the nine, only one made you believe in the light of love again. Before Jongin, you were adamant about living a life that shuts out the rest of the world, content within the confines of your own bubble, but now, he makes you want to forgive – not just the world, but yourself. You realize that maybe he’s what you’ve needed all along but the question is, are you what he needs or is he just playing a dangerous game?

Author: bbhkjiexofics Genre: romance, fluff, angst, slice of life, smut (later chapters), slow burn Au: Idol!Au Warnings: signs of PTSD, domestic abuse, alcohol abuse, strong language, violence, sexual content  Pairing: Jongin x Reader (feat. EXO members) Word count: 6.9k

A/N: Hi everyone! So this is the first chapter of the first work I’m ever putting out! Safe to say that I’m extremely nervous about posting this but I’m just so excited for this story and I wanted to share that excitement with all of you. Hopefully you get to stay tuned for the next chapters. I’m uploading 3 chapters at a time, still don’t know how many chapters this series will be in total but the next upload will probably be in the next week or so! Hope you all like it! Let me know if you have any comments/feedback with regards to the writing. I’m always open to constructive criticism. :) 

Masterlist Series Mini-Masterlist

CHAPTER 1

You enjoy the wind in your hair, the heat of the sun on your skin, the sounds of your horse’s gallops against the ground. This is the life you have been enjoying for the past 3 years. Even though some nights are still intolerable, you have grown accustom to life in the countryside. No sounds of traffic, no angry neighbors, and no city lights to keep you awake (though you’ve had your fair share of sleepless nights here nonetheless). Everything is what you need in your life right now and you wouldn’t want to change anything about it.

You see your uncle Jaeyoon across the small field where you’ve been doing your routine morning ride with your horse, Blue, and you make your way towards him.

“Good morning, honey!” your uncle shouts as you close the distance between you both and you get down from Blue.

“Good morning, uncle Jae. What’s up?” 

Jae has been your rock, along with his wife, Yuna, these past 3 years. Ever since you lost your parents, you’ve decided to stay in your hometown to help run the stables with him, taking your dad’s place, just so you can stay in the family home you grew up in. Moving to the city for university was so hard for you, being the only child of your parents, you always had a close bond with them and uncle Jae and aunt Yuna, being your parents’ best friends and living only a few houses away, have always been a part of your life. It’s like you had two sets of parents so it wasn’t a surprise when they took you in after the tragic accident.

“Just checking in on you and making sure you aren’t exhausting Blue too much again.” 

You roll your eyes in reply as you pat Blue’s neck, “Blue always has the most energy in the mornings so he never minds when I take a little longer when taking him for a ride. Isn’t that right, boy?” Blue neighs at you and you flash a wide smile at Jae, “See!”.

Jae chuckles and walks with you as you bring Blue back to the stables. “Your aunt Yuna just prepared breakfast for you inside so once you’ve settled Blue back in the stables, just come in.”

You felt oddly suspicious by this because for one, aunt Yuna only ever makes breakfast when there’s some serious things about the stables’ operations that need to be discussed or if there’s something you’ve done wrong and they want to step in to “discipline” you – which is hardly any shouting or arguing because they know they’re not your parents and they respect that you’re basically an adult who can take care of herself but still, they will always be watching you in the sidelines in case you fuck up and they need to help straighten you out.

“Okay… What’s up?” You raise an eyebrow at him before he turns towards the house, already avoiding all your questions.

“Just get inside as soon as you’re done, okay? Or else the food will get cold quickly.” He says as he turns his back from you to walk back to the big house.

Hm. Weird.

Once you finish settling Blue back in the stables, you head towards your house. It’s an odd feeling to have this huge house all to yourself ever since your parents died. Jae and Yuna don’t stay with you as they have little ones of their own and they just live a few houses away so there was no need to have them stay here. But your parents always wanted a big home even though you were only 3 people. 

The house has a very rustic vibe, almost like a cabin and a barn mixed into one design. It has two floors and the bedrooms are all in the second floor – all 5 bedrooms. What does a family of 3 need 5 bedrooms for? Beats you but hey, you loved that house and you cherished every single memory you’ve had growing up in it.

You open the sliding doors to the dining room that overlooks the field and stables and you greet your aunt Yuna with a kiss on the cheek before settling down on the dining room table in front of both of them.

They both look at you with weirdly exaggerated smiles and encourage you to first take bites of your food before they even speak. As you chomp down on the waffles and eggs, you look up at both of them with a raised eyebrow and let go of your cutlery. The sound from the silverware meeting your plate removes their stares from you and you raise an eyebrow at them, “Okay, what’s this all about?” You look at them both in the eye and they try to pull away from the sudden staring contest.

Aunt Yuna clears her throat before she looks at her husband with wide eyes and through gritted teeth she says, “Go ahead, honey, tell her.”

Uncle Jae looks away from aunt Yuna’s intimidating gaze and tries to prolong him having to speak as he chugs his orange juice before facing you.

“Well?” You cock another eyebrow at him. 

“Okay so here’s the thing..” he starts and looks back at aunt Yuna for encouragement and she nods her head at him before she suddenly fidgets with the eggs on her plate.

“Remember my friend Youngmin?” he looks at you expectantly and you just shake your head in reply.

“Anyways, I think I’ve introduced him to you before but basically we’ve been friends since middle school and you know that he’s the manager of some big idol group right?” He stops before he takes a bite of his waffle.

“Okay… and?” you still don’t know why this information is so important that aunt Yuna needed to prepare breakfast for.

“Well, he asked me for a favor..” 

“And that favor is..?” You were honestly growing tired of this conversation as uncle Jae just can’t seem to get straight to the point. Obviously nervous about telling you as he beats around the bush.

He looks to aunt Yuna again and she just looks away from him.

What is the damn favor?

You sigh, “Look, uncle Jae, can you please get straight to the point? I’m losing my appetite already with you trying to prolong this conversation.”

He huffs and says, “Okay, fine. He asked me if the idol group he’s managing right now can stay in this house for a couple of weeks as a vacation from the city. You know… away from the glamour of celebrity stardom blah blah. They just got back from tour and have been begging him for a vacation but he can’t seem to find a place that’s been as secure and secluded enough for them to really unwind which is why he called me.” He finally exhales as he said all of that under one breath.

You look at him with big eyes and your jaw dropped. 

Here!? My house!?

You look at both of them, trying to find the words as you let the shock leave your body and try to calm yourself.

“Here!? With me!? At my house!?”, you shout the words out that were already in your mind.

He nods at you and flashes you a sheepish smile. Aunt Yuna does the same. You groan as you lean your head back and rest it at the top of the chair. 

Your eyes now up at the ceiling, refusing to look at the two in front of you, “Why!?”

“We thought it would be good for you to you know… Try and make some new friends. We never liked the idea of you being in this big house alone so this might be a good experience for you to form new friendships.” Aunt Yuna suddenly speaks.

“First of all, my house is not a hotel or a bed and breakfast. Second, I am not a host, I like being alone even if this house seems empty with just one person living under its roof. Lastly, why would I need to be friends with idols? That won’t benefit me at all! On the contrary, it will make me just want to isolate myself even more!” You retort and try not to raise your voice even more as this bogus idea is making your blood boil.

You like being alone. You don’t want anyone else sharing this house with you as you feel like it’s an invasion of privacy and the last time you let someone into your life and opened yourself up to them, you found yourself in a shitty mess and half the person you used to be. The last thing you want to do is pretend like you’re some excited host, welcoming strangers into your home with open arms like it doesn’t bother you one bit. You’d rather just be alone forever with your horses and live in peace.

“And besides, I don’t want to mingle with some girls and fake my hospitality when they’re probably just going to make fun of the ‘stable girl’, not fit to be their friend and not fit for their lifestyle.” You cross your arms and your eyebrows are furrowed now, you can feel your whole face heating up from the frustration of this whole conversation.

Aunt Yuna and uncle Jae exchange weary glances and uncle Jae turns back to you and tries to speak his next words in the calmest way possible, “They’re not a girl idol group, honey… They’re EXO.”

What. The. Actual. Fuck.

You stand up from the table and make your way to the stairs, making sure your steps are heavy so they could hear the frustration and anger you’re feeling as you walk away from them.

Uncle Jae follows you to the foot of the stairs and gently tugs at your arm before you look at him with still furrowed eyebrows.

“Honey, I know that you’re very protective of this house and of yourself but aunt Yuna and I think it’s a good way for you to try and come out of your shell.. You know, make new friends and not be alone anymore and shut everyone except us out?” He looks at you with pleading eyes.

You cross your arms to your chest in a defensive manner, “I have friends!”

“Your horses are not your friends.” He crosses his arms across his chest in return, trying to match your stance and you know that when Jae does that, he is not backing down from this conversation.

You roll your eyes and huff, “So you’re telling me that you’re allowing this Youngmin friend of yours to bring in his idol group, EXO, who are all male, nine males to be exact, to stay with me all alone in this huge ass house just so they can unwind at my expense!?” You glare at him, still in shock at the fact that he even considered this proposal knowing all too well the discomfort you would feel and how much this affects you.

“They’re good guys, Y/n.. I’ve met them a couple of times before and they have always been respectable, kind, and funny. I never even noticed any obnoxiousness from them considering they are idols.” You suck your teeth and he sighs, holding you by the shoulders so that you don’t run off upstairs before he finishes what he has to say, “I know that what happened before was traumatizing – it was traumatizing for all of us. But you have to start moving on so that you won’t dwell in this loneliness and anger forever. This is a good start and we really believe that this will help you overcome the sadness and fear, okay?” He tucks the stray hairs away from your face and you stare him in the eyes. 

You know that you’ve been trying to shut everyone out for 3 years now but isn’t this too big of a step? Is this whole thing gonna blow up in your face and you’ll just end up being in a shittier state than when you’ve started? You’ve been able to move on by yourself the best way you know how but you know deep down that maybe they’re right.. Maybe you do need this to fully recover from your past.

“You know we wouldn’t even discuss this with you if we knew it was a bad idea.” Aunt Yuna joins her husband and stands beside him, “So what do you say? Can you please agree and give this a try?” He looks at you and aunt Yuna takes your hand and intertwines it with hers. A reassuring gesture that never fails to soften your heart.

You stare at both of them before sighing in defeat, you can never say no to these two, “Fine. They can stay.. But the minute I become uncomfortable or they fuck up anything in this house, I’m dragging them out myself.”

They look at each other triumphantly before they let you go, “Thank you, y/n!” 

You roll your eyes and start going upstairs, skipping steps so that you reach your bedroom faster and you hear uncle Jae from the bottom of the stairs shout, “This will be good for you, honey! This might just be exactly what you need!” You shut the door behind you, not wanting to hear any more of it.

Key word: ‘might’.

Deep down you knew that maybe this is the right thing to do. No matter how scary and uncomfortable the idea of having 9 strangers suddenly live with you may seem, especially guys, this may help you finally leave everything in the past. All the fears, discomforts, anger, all of it. Maybe this could be the start of your new journey towards forgiving the world – and forgiving yourself.

A week of cleaning, getting new bed sheets washed, making sure the kitchen was stocked, and the house was basically as spotless as a museum. You were exhausted. 

Why did you even have to get the house ready? It’s perfect just the way it is but uncle Jae and aunt Yuna practically nagged at you every day to make sure everything was set for the boys’ arrival.

Ugh. Why do I have to be the one exhausting myself? They’re the ones who wanted to stay here so they should be happy with the state of the house no matter what.

But whatever, you just chose to follow whatever uncle Jae and aunt Yuna instructed you to do so they don’t have to complain and bark demands at you every waking moment. Basically, you just wanted them to shut up so you can get everything done as soon as possible and enjoy the last moments of silence you’ll have in this house before you have to share it with strangers.

Well, not really strangers. You’ve heard of EXO before but you were never the type to ‘fangirl’ or be obsessed with any idol group or celebrity. It just wasn’t your personality, you’d rather spend your time riding or being with your horses.

You were already dressed and ready for their arrival after finishing up your morning ride with Blue. You decided that you weren’t gonna ‘dress up’ just because they’re arriving, no. You simply put on a white cropped top, high-waisted jeans, and sneakers. Simple and screams I don’t care who you are but hey, welcome to my home, I guess vibe.

When you reach the kitchen, aunt Yuna is already almost done preparing for lunch. There was kimbap, soup, rice, grilled fish, and a variety of side dishes splayed on the long dining table and you were salivating just by the smell.

You reach for some chopsticks and were ready to taste some side dishes when aunt Yuna slapped your hand away, “Hey!” you rubbed at the hand that she hit and she just glares at you “These are for the guests too, don’t start ruining my food presentations!”

You roll your eyes, “This is still my house, you know! Shouldn’t I be taking the first bites?”

“They’re coming from the city, that’s at least a 3 and a half hour drive, they’re gonna be starving by the time they arrive. So no touching.” She lays down all the plates and walks to the foyer, looking through the windows by the door to make sure they haven’t arrived yet.

You groan and sit at the head of the table and count only 10 table settings. 

“Aunt Yuna, aren’t they 9? Don’t we need 12 table settings here? You, me, uncle Jae, and the 9 of them, right?” 

“Oh honey, we aren’t joining you for lunch.” She says nonchalantly as she looks back at the window, still watching out for their arrival.

“What!? What do you mean you’re not joining?” You look at her with wide eyes and furrowed brows. 

I swear, the amount of times my brows have been scrunched together this past week will surely give me wrinkles faster. And I’m still too young to be worrying about aging. I blame this whole situation. It’s just weird and fucked up in general.

Aunt Yuna finally moves away from the window to sit down at the dining table beside you, “Your uncle Jae and I thought that it would be a good ice breaker for you and the boys if we left you to have lunch alone. You know, get to know each other before you spend how many weeks under the same roof.”

You huff and cross your arms again but she reaches out to hold your hand, “We’ve already met them before and all of them are lovely, we don’t need to meddle in your conversations. And besides, it’ll make you speak up more rather than relying on us to carry the entire conversation.” She smirks. 

Ugh damn it.

You roll your eyes but you don’t let go of her hand. You trust aunt Yuna and uncle Jae with your life. This is something you just have to endure to return them the favor of treating you like their own. You love them too much to disappoint them so you just have to survive the next couple of weeks and you’ll be fine. 

Right?

You hear a car come in contact against the gravel of your driveway, signaling that they have finally arrived.

“Oh! They’re here! Come on, we should help them with their bags.” Aunt Yuna walks away from you to greet them and you breathe in as much of the silence that you have left before it’ll be gone for the next couple of weeks.

You go to the foyer, opening the door wide to make sure that there’s enough space for the boys to enter with their luggage. You are greeted with the sight of two big black vans parked on your driveway, with uncle Jae and aunt Yuna standing at the bottom of the front steps, ready to welcome them with open arms.

The first boy you see come out from one of the vans was so handsome. You actually shocked yourself that he almost blew your breath away with the way he smiled, his face was of golden proportions and what he lacked in height, he definitely made up with his stunning looks. He had red hair, parted in the middle, and he was wearing a black sweater, jeans, and sneakers. A simple outfit yet he looked like a million bucks.

“Suho!” uncle Jae went up to him to give him a warm hug.

“Hi uncle! Nice to see you again!” Suho bowed to both him and Aunt Yuna after uncle Jae released him from his bear hug. 

Good looks and great manners? Okay, good start, good start.

While Suho went to the back with uncle Jae to retrieve their luggage from the trunk, two other boys stepped out of the other van – one that was extremely tall and the other was the same height as Suho, his almond-shaped eyes resembling a cat’s and you thought to yourself, wow, I’ve never seen eyes like that.

The two boys greeted aunt Yuna with a bow as well before she hugged them warmly, “Chanyeol, Xiumin! So nice to see you again!”

“It’s so nice to see you again, auntie!” They both said in unison. 

Okay, why does it feel like no one sees me. Am I invisible?

Just as Chanyeol and Xiumin go to the back of their van to retrieve their luggage, another boy from the van that Suho was in steps out. He had the widest smile and they reached his eyes, crinkling at the sides and he suddenly yelps, “AWAAAAE!” as the boy behind him kicked his butt so he could move out of the way so he could get out of the van too, “You’re blocking the way! I have to pee!”

Suddenly he starts running towards you, “Hi! I’m Baekhyun! I’m so sorry but I really need to pee, can I please use the bathroom?” He’s bouncing up and down and he’s waiting for you to show him the directions to the bathroom.

You just only register that he’s in front of you, waiting for you to speak, and you snap out of it because damn, he’s pretty. You tell him, “Y-Yeah, uhm, just go straight down the hall, the bathroom is the door on the left across the kitchen.”

“Thanks!!” He rushes passed you and you watch him to make sure he finds his way. When you see him enter the bathroom you turn your attention back to the driveway and you are greeted with two guys in front of you, one with really handsome features and he was also slightly tall and the other was shorter but he looked adorable, reminding you of a penguin for some reason.

“Hi! I’m Lay, it’s nice to meet you!” He reaches out his hand and you shake it with a smile.

Hm, has a slight accent. Chinese, maybe?

You then turn your attention to the penguin lookalike, “I’m D.O. Thank you so much for allowing us to stay here.” You were shocked that such a tiny man (brave of you to say tiny when you’re like 5’3, almost all these guys were bound to tower over you), had such a deep voice. You’d think that a voice like that wouldn’t come out of that body but you give him a wide smile anyways, making sure you’re displaying some warm hospitality in it as he can’t reach out to extend a hand because his hands were carrying a suitcase each. 

“Do you need help with those?” You look at his hands and he smiles, “No, I’m good! But thank you for offering.”

You hold the door wider for them to get through, “You can place your luggage in the living room first and just carry them up after lunch.”

They both smile and drop their luggage in the living room just as you said, but they simply stand there, not yet taking a seat as they view their surroundings. You see that Baekhyun has also arrived at the living room and was thanking D.O. Maybe the other suitcase he was carrying was Baekhyun’s.

Suho, Xiumin, and Chanyeol also greeted you with warm smiles and handshakes before you told them that they could also leave their suitcases in the living room as well.

Uncle Jae and Aunt Yuna were giving you a big smile and you just sighed, feeling the exhaustion already as you weren’t used to this much social interaction anymore.

These next few weeks are gonna be looooong and tiring.

You see the man with the wide smile and crinkly eyes go towards you, two suitcases with him as well as he introduced himself with a bow, “Hi, I’m Chen! Sorry I can’t really shake your hand right now as my hands are full but really, thank you for agreeing to host us.” You nod and give him a huge smile in return before he makes his way to the living room to join the others.

One van had already left and you now see the last two boys emerging from the other van, one looked completely handsome but serious. His black hair almost matched his aura which radiated don’t fuck with me or I will mess you up. He adjusted his pants as he got off of the van and he turned towards the door again to help the last member out. The last guy looked like he had a small limp and his left ankle had a wrap around it. The serious looking guy helped him get out of the van and the other guy thanked him but he released himself from the serious guy’s embrace before managing to walk towards uncle Jae and aunt Yuna all by himself. 

He looked fine, maybe his injury was healing? 

You couldn’t really completely see his face yet as his head was down. However, you do see that his hair is silvery, blonde-ish, white-ish? You don’t even know what color that is but you do know that it looks soft as fuck.

The last two tall members were greeting aunt Yuna and uncle Jae with bows and smiles but still, your view was blocked from seeing the last member’s face fully. You heard laughter from the living room and turned your head towards the sound. When you faced back towards where the last two members were, you almost screamed as you were startled that they were suddenly right in front of you, towering over your tiny self as you reached a hand to your chest, trying to calm yourself from the shock.

“Sorry about that, didn’t mean to startle you.” The last member with the soft hair was finally looking at you, revealing the most handsome face you’ve ever seen. 

I think I’m gonna pass out.

You look at him with wide eyes, unable to suddenly form sentences and all you can hear is your heartbeat. You just stare at his face, he looks so perfect. His eyes were a deep shade of brown, almost like milk chocolate. His skin was so golden, the sun hitting it so perfectly that it makes it seem like he’s glowing. His lips looked so soft and plump, it’s like he had pillows instead of lips. He towered over you and you had to make an effort to actually look up at him just to retain eye contact. He was wearing a plain white shirt, a denim jacket with a little bear on the front pocket, black jeans, and converse. He looked absolutely dazzling and for some reason, it was like you were under a spell.

The other member, the serious one, cleared his throat and snapped you out of your gaze as you looked at him, “S-sorry, it’s fine. The others are in the living room already and lunch is ready as well.” You look down as you step away from the doorway so they could come in.

The two of them walk passed you but the guy you were completely mesmerized by looks back at you and says with a smile, “Thank you for agreeing to have us.” And you swore that that smile made you feel like you were about to melt right then and there.

Get yourself together, Y/n. Stop ogling him, you don’t know him.

You finally are able to snap yourself out of it as you bow to both of them slightly, “My pleasure.”

My pleasure!? You literally dreaded this whole idea.

He gives you a wider smile this time before he and the serious member (who didn’t even say a word to you other than clearing his throat to probably stop you from undressing his fellow member with your stare), walk towards the living room.

You turn your head towards uncle Jae and aunt Yuna and they both have smirks on their faces which you scowl at.

“Looks like someone has a crush.” Aunt Yuna wiggles her eyebrows to you and you roll your eyes, “I do not. I don’t even know his name.”

“The one with black hair is Sehun and the guy you were salivating over is Kai.” Uncle Jae whispers to you.

“I was not salivating over him!” You huff and cross your arms.

They both chuckle, “Whatever you say, honey!” Uncle Jae says before he hugs you, getting ready to leave you guys to your lunch.

“Do you both really have to go? This is gonna be completely awkward. I don’t even memorize their names.” You pout and whine, hoping that this will work again the same way it always does so you can have your way.  

Aunt Yuna leans in to hug you before letting you go, “No pouting! You can do this, sweetheart. They’re just normal guys and you’re all the same age. And with the names, that’s the point of the lunch! That’s the only way you guys will get to know each other. So please, just be yourself and be welcoming.”

You roll your eyes before you turn your backs to them to close the door, “If I be myself, I might scare them away.” You grin at both of them.

“Okay, maybe be a perkier you just for today, please..” Uncle Jae begs and you sigh in defeat before you nod, closing the door as you take deep breaths before you make your way to the living room.

When you arrive at the entryway of the living room, they all look at you and you feel so small. They look at you with piercing gazes and the room falls into an awkward silence and you just wish that the ground could just swallow you whole right now.

But you force yourself to find the courage because you know deep down that you have to start this conversation. Save you and everyone else from this awkward misery.

“Uhm..” you clear your throat before continuing with your introduction, “Hi. I’m Y/n. We’ve all met just awhile ago so forgive me if I don’t memorize your names yet..” 

You start only to be interrupted by Sehun (who still hasn’t spoken a word to you until now), “Wait, you don’t know who we are?” his tone harsh as he raised his eyebrow at you and you cross your arms to signal that you’re in defensive mode right now.

Okay, maybe this Sehun guy doesn’t really like me. But two can play that game here.

“All I know is that your manager asked my uncle for a favor. So yes, I know you as the guys who wanted to stay in my house for some reason and I have to accommodate you. Other than that, I don’t know you guys at all.”

Okay, maybe a slight exaggeration but I wasn’t completely lying. I know they’re an idol group but I don’t know know them. At this point, they are strangers to me no matter if they were celebrities or not.

Baekhyun giggles and it somehow breaks the tension in the room as everyone looks at his direction, “What? I like her! At least we don’t have to act like we’re being watched 24/7 like how we were in the city. Isn’t that what this whole vacation is for?”

Sehun looks away from Baekhyun and back at you, “what if you’re lying and you’re actually a crazy fan that just wants us to spill all our deepest and darkest secrets?”

Suho suddenly clears his throat but before he could say anything you were face to face with Sehun, arms still across your chest to hide the fact that he may be serious and probably hates you for some unknown reason but standing so near him in a defiant stance just makes you realize how handsome he is, just like all the other 8 guys in this room.

You push that thought at the back of your head before you speak in a calm yet intimidating manner, “Like I said, I only know you as guys who want to have a little vacation and chose my house for some reason to ‘unwind’,” you gesture air quotes with a mocking tone at the mention of the last word before crossing your arms again to continue, “This is my house and you’re under my roof and if you have any doubts about me or my home, then you’re free to leave any time.” You step back slightly to scan all the guys who are now looking at you shocked and you look back at Sehun, his eyes softening a bit, “The food is getting cold and I’m hungry. You’re free to join me and have lunch here or you can leave. The door is wide open. Your choice.”

You head to the dining room walking passed the boys’ shocked expressions, not sparing them any glances. You take your seat at the head of the table before letting out a shaky breath. With your eyes closed, you let your elbows rest on the table as you lean into your hands, as if you were in a praying position, trying to calm your heart rate from the exchange that just happened.

Your eyes fly open as Kai takes a seat beside you, looking at you with a warm smile and reaches for the rice to put some on your plate.

“I’m hungry too.” He continues to put rice on your plate as all the members start taking a seat at the table silently and Sehun takes the seat at the other end of the table, directly across from you. He gives you a slight smile and a small nod of his head before he takes a piece of kimbap and shove it in his mouth.

“Well, that was some introduction, huh!” Chanyeol, who was sitting at your other side across Kai says as he clapped his hands and everyone starts laughing and surprisingly, you laugh too.

You notice Kai stare at you from your peripheral as you laugh and you could feel yourself blush before you look back at him but he looks away and you swore his cheeks were a little flushed as well.

CUTE.

“I think for us to have a clean slate with the whole introduction thing, maybe it’s better if some members introduce themselves again using their real names.” Suho suggests.

“Real names?” You cock your head to the side in confusion as he continues, “Well, some of us have stage names that we use but I think since this is going to be our home for the next couple of weeks, it would only be fair if we introduce ourselves to you using our real names. Besides, I think we owe you that after our maknae here gave you a little attitude.” He glares at Sehun and he looks away from Suho before taking a sip of water.

Sehun is the maknae!? Wtf!? I thought he was the eldest with the way he was interrogating me.

Suho turns back to look at you with a big smile, “I’m Junmyeon. I’m the leader.” 

“Hi Junmyeon, it’s nice to meet you.” You smile at him in return.

“It’s nice to meet you too, Y/n! Thank you again for agreeing to all this.”

You nod at him, smiling, as Xiumin introduces himself next, “I’m Minseok. I’m the eldest of the bunch.” He gestures to the rest of the members.

“You’re the eldest!?” You were shocked because he doesn’t even look a day over 22.

“I know right? I think I have a talent of never aging.” He wiggles an eyebrow at you and Baekhyun hits him playfully but Minseok hits him back as Baekhyun pretends like he’s in pain.

“Nice to meet you, Minseok.” You giggle at their exchange before landing your eyes at Chen who was about to introduce himself as well.

“I’m Jongdae!” he gives you that big smile that makes his eyes crinkle and you just feel such a warm energy whenever he spoke. You tell him that it’s nice to meet him as well and try to match his smile but to no avail.

You hear a deep voice towards Jongin’s direction as D.O. starts introducing himself, “Hi Y/n, I’m Kyungsoo. It’s nice to meet you!” He finally reaches out his hands towards you for you to shake as he wasn’t able to earlier. Your hands touch just in front of Kai and you can see him stare at the interaction with some sort of unreadable expression.

You let go of Kyungsoo’s hand as he says, “If you need help with any meal preparations, don’t hesitate to ask me! I want to cook a lot during this vacation as I haven’t been able to during tour.” He gives you a shy smile at his confession.

“I’d love that! I’m not that great of a cook so any help is most welcome.” You smile back at him and he nods his head at you in appreciation.

“Hi Y/n, nice to meet you, I’m Yixing!” Lay suddenly speaks beside Chanyeol. His accent still making you curious.

“Hi Yixing, nice to meet you! I can tell you have an accent.” You smile at him.

 “Yeahp! I’m the only Chinese member.”

“And we are forever grateful because every time we visit China, we can always count on him to bring us to the nicest restaurants.” Chanyeol adds.

“Is that all you’re grateful for me for?” Yixing whines next to him.

“Oh stop the whining, you know we love you.” Minseok interrupts and Yixing gives Chanyeol a small smack to the back of his head before going over to Minseok to give him a quick embrace.

You laugh at their interactions because they actually are so cute and funny. You didn’t really expect any of them to be this down-to-earth, let alone actually introduce themselves using their real names on the first day of you guys meeting.

You steal a glance at Kai who was looking at Yixing hugging Minseok and you can’t help but feel butterflies in your tummy. The way he’s idly playing with his chopsticks, parts of his fringe covering his forehead slightly, and his cute dimple showing. You think you’re being hypnotized again and just before you think you’ll be trapped in that spell forever, he looks at you and you gasp quietly. 

You’ve been caught. Great.

You quickly look down at the food on your plate, suddenly the kimbap seems so interesting to you.

You hear Kai clear his throat before he speaks, “And I’m Jongin.”

You look up at him slowly, completely enthralled by his deep honey voice as he speaks his real name and introduces himself.

When you finally meet his eyes, he gives you a warm and beautiful smile that makes your heart skip a beat. You can feel your face heat up again and you look away, cursing yourself internally for being so weak to his charm and good looks. And for being so damn obvious about it.

You barely know this guy and you’re so affected!? Get a grip, woman!

You lick your lips before you face him again and start to speak, but you find that his eyes are now on your lips and you think to yourself that maybe you have something in your teeth?

“Jongin,” you repeat, “I like it.” You smile and his eyes meet yours and he quickly looks back down at his plate as he smiles shyly, you see him blush a smidge and you look away thinking that maybe you do have something in your teeth.. Maybe he didn’t want to embarrass you in front of everyone if he pointed it out.

You quickly take a sip of your water to try to wash away whatever he might have seen in between your teeth and he turns to look at you as you finished gulping down your water.

His face is so ethereal and captivating that you can’t help but look at him.

I think I can stare at his face all day and never get tired.

“I like your name too, Y/n.” 

You can really feel yourself blush now and you and Jongin seem to be in your own world when Baekhyun suddenly interrupts, clinking his knife to his glass.

You both snap out of each other’s gazes and when you turn your head to look in Baekhyun’s direction, it seems like everyone noticed you and Jongin’s exchange. All were now flashing you both a knowing smile and you look down at your plate, completely embarrassed that everyone witnessed you blushing over their brother.

“Well, well, well. Looks like,” Baekhyun looks to you both after he stopped clinking his glass with his knife, signaling for a toast. You spot Jongin glaring at him, stopping him from saying what he was about to as he clears his throat before continuing his toast.

“…looks like we are just gonna have so much fun together during this vacation!” He looks away from Jongin and Jongin lets out a relieved sigh before taking his glass and lifting it up slightly in the air for a toast.

“A toast to all the unforgettable memories we are gonna have!” Baekhyun exclaims before everyone toasts their glasses together. Jongin waits for you to clink your glass to his and you both exchange shy smiles at each other before drinking both of your waters at the same time.

Unforgettable indeed.

Taglist: @cardtak​ 

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