#she could be the woman of my dreams me thinks

[theemporium]

[14.5k] ethan edwards was prepared for his rookie year in the nhl. he just wasn't prepared for a rat infestation, an unlikely roommate and to fall in love too. (smutty scenes mostly implied)

aka a fic based in the future when ethan finally joins the devils so don’t take anything remotely seriously!

happy birthday @httplando!! enjoy the belated birthday fic🤠gonna go mute you now before you spam my phone with voice notes of you giggling over ethan xoxo

.

SEPTEMBER

Ethan Edwards thought he was prepared for his rookie year.

He had long come to terms with the fact he was in the National Hockey League. It still felt surreal but the reality had long sunk in since the day he was drafted. This was his goal. This was his dream. And he had made it. 

And he knew it would be different from hockey in any other league he had played. He knew it would be faster, harder, more demanding than college hockey. He knew that he would be pushing his body to levels he had never experienced. He knew he was mentally going to go through some of the toughest months of his life as he settled into the big leagues. He knew he was taking the sport he loved to a whole new level and he was prepared for that. 

He was prepared for his rookie year. 

He wasn’t prepared to fall in love with you. 

More than that, he wasn’t prepared to fall in love and not fucking realise it. Especially when you were his fucking roommate. 

Though, when he thought about it, the signs from the universe directing you onto his life path was there long before his first game as a New Jersey Devil. 

“Have you signed for a place yet?” Luke had asked him during the summer, somewhere in the days between wakeboarding and sunbathing and enjoying the freedom of his last stress-free summer before he entered the professional league. 

“I’ve got a few potential options but it’s fine,” Ethan had replied, dozing off on the sunlounger with his eyes closed beneath his sunglasses. “I’ve got time before training camp starts. There’s no rush.” 

And honestly? It was his own stupid ignorance that led to the karma of his current situation. 

“We do apologise, Mr Edwards, but there is nothing we can do. The building manager won’t be able to fix the problems before your move in date and we have no available lots to accommodate you until the problems are solved.”

Ethan tried to let the woman’s soothing voice calm him, but it was hard to find any peace in the words she was saying. “So, I’m homeless?”

“Once again, we do apologise for the inconvenience but the apartment is completely inhabitable.”

Because of fucking course he would find himself scrambling for last minute accommodation in Jersey, days before he was meant to meet his new team and start settling in to his rookie year. The universe couldn’t be too nice to him, not in the year he knew was going to be one of the roughest of his life. 

So, he did what any sane person would do and had a total breakdown on the phone to his mother. And then he called Luke, feeling somewhat spiteful that the boy jinxed his luck earlier that summer. The least he could do is help him out now. 

After Luke had spent the first five minutes laughing because, in his words, “who the fuck has a rat infested apartment in Jersey?”

“Can you help me or not?” Ethan sighed, fingers pressed against his temples in hopes it would ease the ache that had been lingering behind his eyes since he first picked up the phone from the estate agent that morning. 

“I mean, I’m sure Nico or one of the other guys wouldn’t mind taking you in. Jack stayed with—” Luke started but a distressed noise from Ethan cut him short.

“Yeah but Jack was, like, eighteen. I’m meant to be a fucking college graduate,” Ethan grumbled, his cheeks burning. “What impression would that set for the guys on the team?” 

Luke paused. “You’re absolutely reading far too much into this.”

Ethan scoffed. “I think my reaction is justified.”

“Drama queen,” Luke grumbled under his breath before sighing. “I have a friend that was looking for a roommate, actually. You could always stay with them until your place is sorted. The apartment isn’t too far from the rink.”

“Someone on the team?”

“No, someone else.” 

Ethan blinked. “You have friends outside of hockey? Outside of me?”

“Yes, Ethan, I have other friends. You aren’t my only friend.”

“You think you know people and they stab you in the back,” Ethan sighed, far too dramatically (in Luke’s opinion).

“Look, do you want the place or not?” 

“Yeah, yeah,” Ethan quickly spoke up. “That would be perfect. Send me your friend’s number.” 

.

Now, when Luke had told Ethan that he had a friend—a non-hockey friend, at that—that was looking for a roommate, he wasn’t exactly sure what or who was expecting. He didn’t like to make assumptions on people when he knew little to nothing about them. It didn’t feel polite.

But he feels like he’s pretty fucking justified in feeling duped by the youngest Hughes brother when he finds out his new roommate isn’t a guy at all. 

In Ethan’s opinion, that feels like pretty fucking important information to reveal before he shows up at your door with his car down below packed up with bags and boxes down in the carpark. 

Because now, he looks like a fucking idiot when you open the door and he is left standing there, frozen and mouth open like a fish whilst every English word is thrown out of his head. 

“You must be Ethan,” you said eventually, because Ethan still couldn’t bring himself to speak after a painful thirty seconds. “Luke’s friend?”

“Uh yeah,” he cleared his throat, at least having the decency to look somewhat embarrassed by his reaction with blushing cheeks. “Thank you so much, by the way. You’re really doing me a huge favour.”

“Luke said you were desperate.”

Ethan wanted to disagree but he couldn’t. Not really.

“That’s a bit of an exaggeration,” he tried to laugh off, though your face remained mostly unimpressed. “So—”

“Your room is the one on the left. Your bathroom is right next door. Three cupboards have been emptied for you in the kitchen and you have the top shelves in the fridge,” you stated, so matter-of-factly that Ethan could only blink in response. “Any questions?”

“No?” 

“Great,” and with that, you wandered further into the apartment, leaving Ethan standing in the doorway dumbfounded. 

…

OCTOBER

It didn’t take long for Ethan to realise you had some walls around you, and small talk was certainly not the way to get past them.

It was a shift to the roommates he was used to, fresh out of college and having spent the better part of the last four years staying with some of his closest friends and teammates. But it wasn’t totally unwelcome on his part. It was kind of nice to have a space that wasn’t so…hockey.

And it helped that he had his own space. 

September passed in the blink of an eye and soon training camp became the real deal. It felt surreal to think he was really in the NHL now, that he was a professional hockey player, that this was his job and his livelihood now. 

But it also felt fucking great. 

The schedule of an NHL player was no joke and it was certainly not something Luke exaggerated—despite what Ethan assumed during the summer. It was intense and tiring and he didn’t have much time to think about anything else. 

Except maybe his ice cold, standoffish roommate. 

As the regular season began, Ethan had come to a few conclusions. 

.

One: you were not a morning person, especially before having any form of caffeine. That was something he learnt the hard way. 

Early morning practices were nothing new to Ethan. He wasn’t exactly an early bird, but his body had trained itself to familiarise itself with the early mornings after years and years of playing hockey. It was the norm for him, to be awake as the sun started peeking through the horizon and the rest of the world was about to wake up.

He wouldn’t call himself chipper, not really. He was just as energetic as he normally is.

You seemed to disagree. 

“Morning, stranger!” Ethan greeted you as you shuffled into the kitchen, with a boyish grin on his face and a spatula in hand.

You didn’t even glance at him as you shuffled towards the fridge. 

“Not a morning person, got it,” Ethan nodded, biting back his smile as you turned to glare at him. 

“It’s half six in the morning,” you grumbled. “Why are you so loud?” 

“My mum says it’s a part of my charm.” 

You didn’t look very amused in response. 

The following mornings seemed to fit the same routine. Even on the days he didn’t have practice or meetings, Ethan would find himself waking up early and starting his day around the same time you would be up for work. He would be chatty, you would look like you wanted to gauge his eyes out. It was oddly comforting. 

Somewhere in the middle of the second week of this fixed routine, he began to feel confident enough in watching your routine to know exactly what you needed the second you walked out your room. 

“Good morning!” 

You blinked, staring at the steaming mug he was currently offering you. It took you a few seconds to process the sight before you realised you hadn’t spoken.

“What’s this?” You questioned, a questioning look in your eyes. 

“Coffee. Made exactly the way you like it.” Ethan stayed confidently, his grin widening as you took a sip and let out an appreciative hum. 

“Thanks,” was all you said before shuffling around the kitchen to continue with the rest of his routine. 

On the days he was in Jersey, there was always a coffee cup waiting for you every morning. 

.

Two: you were always cold. Always. No matter what the temperature was outside.

In all honesty, Ethan didn’t get it at all. From what he had gathered in his conversations with you and what Luke told him, you had spent a fair chunk of your life in New Jersey so, if he was being honest, he thought you would have been somewhat used to the colder temperatures. 

But walking into the apartment after afternoon practice to find you bundled on the couch like you were in a blizzard told Ethan that assumption was far from the truth.

“Did the heating break?” was the first thing he asked when he saw you, a wave of concern washing over him as he dumped his bags at the door and made his way to the thermostat.

“No,” you murmured from somewhere in the pile of blankets. “S’just cold.”

Ethan paused, reading the thermostat before turning back to you with an amused expression on his face. “It’s kinda warm for Jersey in October today.”

There was a bit of rustling before your head popped up from amongst the blankets, your eyes narrowed in accusation. “Not all of us are professional athletes sweating their asses off for two hours.”

“In an ice rink,” he added with a grin.

Your glare hardened. 

“Do you want a hot water bottle?” 

You paused for a few moments before nodding with a sheepish expression. “Please.”

Ethan huffed out a laugh before he made his way into the kitchen, kettle filled and turned on before he went to hunt down the hot water bottle he was pretty sure his mother had packed away somewhere in his stuff when he moved away from Michigan.

He returned a few minutes later, lightly nudging the pile of blankets until your face popped up again and your eyes softened at the hot water bottle. He couldn’t help but giggle at the way you quickly snatched it from him, murmuring your thanks as it disappeared under the blankets. 

“Any time,” Ethan said, and he meant it.

.

Three: you really didn’t open up to strangers. Or roommates. Or anyone, really. 

He wasn’t exactly sure how Luke Hughes of all people managed to wiggle his way into a friendship with you, but it was an anomaly that had been wracking his brain for the last few weeks.

It was a week or so before Halloween and he was laying on the couch, his brows furrowed together as he tried to scroll through the internet for an idea of what he could wear to the Halloween party one of the boys were hosting. 

“Why do you look constipated?” 

His head snapped up, finding you standing at the end of the couch. You had two smoothies in your hand, the bag you take to your classes still on your shoulder and your shoes still on. He briefly glanced at the time, frowning a little when he realised he had been sitting there for the better part of two hours before he turned back to you.

“Trying to figure out a last minute Halloween costume,” he told you, eyebrows raised in surprise as you handed him one of the smoothies. He smiled as he took it, taking an obnoxiously loud slurp before you settled down on the other side of the couch. “I wanted to do something with Seamus and Luke but Seamus said he had his sorted and Luke said he was doing a joint costume with someone else.” 

“Oh yeah, me,” you answered casually and Ethan tried to hide his shock. 

“You’re coming?”

“Yeah?” You responded, giving him an odd look. “Luke always invites me to these things. He’s also hopeless with costumes.” 

“I didn’t realise you and Luke were so…close,” he said vaguely, his cheeks flushing a little when he realised what his words sounded like. “Not that it’s any of my business—”

“You’re right, it’s not.” You shrugged, taking a long sip from your smoothie before continuing. “But he’s one of my closest friends.” 

Ethan nodded, ignoring the way his stomach twisted at your words. “How did you two meet?” 

“The strip club.”

Ethan blanched. 

“Geez, you’re more gullible than Luke,” you commented, the hint of a smile on your lips. “You ask a lot of questions, Edwards.”

“I’m a nosy person,” he answered honestly with a shrug. “You didn’t answer the question.”

“Because there isn’t much to it.” 

And, in your defence, he knew you didn’t owe him any answers. But he was curious and he couldn’t seem to wrap his head around how close you and Luke were—close enough for you to willingly accept one of Luke’s friends as your roommate for an indefinite amount of time. 

And, at the crux of it, he didn’t understand how Luke was able to get through to you when he couldn’t. 

Ethan was never one to brag but he was a magnet for people. It helped him thrive in hockey, always willing to be that guy on the team that people feel like they could always talk to. It helped him thrive at university, being a social butterfly that could always make a friend in any situation. 

It usually helped. 

So yeah, maybe Ethan was a little stumped why you didn’t seem to want to be his friend, not in the way you were with Luke and some of the other guys on the team. It seemed like being your roommate added a wall he didn’t know how to break down. 

And when the Halloween party happened, it felt like seeing a whole new person when you were chatting and laughing with Luke. 

You looked more at ease as you stood next to him, happily sipping on whatever drink he had gotten for you from the kitchen. You seemed more relaxed, like a weight had been lifted off your shoulders as you laughed at whatever joke Curtis had made at Luke’s expense. 

It fuelled a fire for Ethan, one he hadn’t realised had been started before that night. But he didn’t just want to be your roommate anymore, he didn’t like having that wall between you. 

He wanted to be your friend too. 

…

NOVEMBER

Three months into the NHL told Ethan that it was really no joke.

He was expecting the more intense training and physical playing. He was expecting his body to feel more tired, more hungry, more sore. He was expecting the ruthless journalists and vocal fans and tougher coaches. 

He wasn’t expecting the mental toll of realising that hockey was all he had in his life. 

It was stupid to complain about, considering it was his dream and all, but it was true. Hockey was his whole world right now. He woke up thinking about hockey, he went to the rink thinking about hockey, he made his dinner thinking about hockey, and then he went to sleep thinking about hockey. 

Nine times out of ten, he dreamt about hockey too.

It was different to the hockey he knew growing up, or the hockey he experienced in Michigan. Because at least in Michigan, there were classes or parties or concerts or something to take his mind off hockey. 

But it wasn’t the same in New Jersey.

There were hangouts with Luke and Seamus, or team bonding sessions organised by Nico. There were drinks at the bar after a good game to celebrate, or a particularly bad one they needed cheering up after. There were fun trips around cities he had never properly explored when they were away on roadies. 

But it was all still linked to hockey. 

And he guessed he wasn’t great at hiding his conundrum when Nico skated up beside him near the end of practice, throwing out the offer to grab a coffee and chat after they finished their debrief with the coaching staff. 

.

For what it was worth, Nico didn’t think he sounded stupid when he explained himself. If anything, the captain was quite understanding. 

“I had it when I first moved,” he had confessed as they sat in some urban coffee shop in a part of the city Ethan hadn’t properly explored before. But Nico swore up and down it had the best coffee to offer. “I was young and I was here for hockey so I thought my whole life had to be hockey.”

“What changed?” Ethan asked, hands wrapped around the big mug his latte was in like it would give him something to do, something to focus on rather than the restless itch under his skin.

“The older guys,” Nico said with a knowing smile. “The ones that learnt how to balance life and hockey. The ones with wives and families and friends outside of the team.”

Ethan’s brows furrowed together. “You think I should go get married?” 

“Not right away,” Nico laughed, shaking his head. “But I know how easy it is to get wrapped up in the rookie year nonsense and everything. And you should be enjoying that, for sure. But there’s more to life than hockey, which is quite hard to believe right now. But it’s true, whether it’s a wife—or husband—and family or a hobby or a group of friends you can be a different Ethan with.”

Ethan nodded, a surprisingly serious expression on his face. “Hobbies?” 

“Yeah, something different to hockey,” Nico explained. “Something that doesn’t require you to give up too much time and take your focus away from hockey, but instead be a respite from everything. Like cooking!”

He blinked. “Cooking?” 

“You cook right now because you have to and you follow the diet plan the trainers give you. But you can find enjoyment in cooking because you want to,” Nico assured him, leaning back in his chair with a sure expression. “Give it a try. What’s the worst that can happen?”

.

As it turns out, the worst that could happen is that Ethan is a fucking horrible cook. 

He tried to hold back his coughs, waving the tea towel aimlessly under the beeping fire alarm before he raced to the windows in hopes they would help get rid of the smoke. Or at least get the alarm to stop.

The one meal outside of his diet plan and he almost burned the apartment complex down trying to cook it. 

Go figure.

He had collapsed on the couch an hour later, two pizza boxes lying on the table in front of him as he aimlessly scrolled through his phone. He didn’t lift his head when he heard the front door lock turning but did freeze when he heard you cough a little. 

“Fuck, why does it smell like a shitty barbeque in here?” 

Ethan turned to you, a sheepish expression on his face as he lifted one of the pizza boxes as a peace offering. “Does pizza count as a ‘sorry for almost burning the place down’ gift?” 

You eyed the pizza box and then his face before you took the seat next to him. “Normally I would say no but you look like you had a pretty rough time, so I’ll accept it this time.”

“Geez, thanks,” Ethan snorted. 

“What were you even trying to cook anyways?” You questioned, taking a silence of margarita pizza and taking a large bite. You resisted the urge to let out a moan. “Fuck, I’m glad whatever it was. I couldn’t be bothered cooking today.” 

“Rough shift?” Ethan asked.

“Bitchy manager was on tonight,” you added with a grumble. 

“Fucking Jerry,” Ethan tsked, shaking his head. 

You turned to him, eyes narrowed in suspicion. “You’re avoiding my question.”

“I’m delaying. There’s a difference,” Ethan corrected.

You hummed. “Okay, so why are you delaying?”

Ethan shrugged, turning his attention to the pizza box open on the coffee table in front of him. “S’stupid, no big deal. Promise.” 

You were silent for a few moments before you spoke. “Is this the point where I take the bait and beg for you to tell me why you’re upset?” 

He snorted, but it at least wrangled a smile out of him. “I’m not stressed. Just…overwhelmed.”

“With hockey?” You asked, but there was no malice or teasing in your voice. Just curiosity. 

“I know this is what I wanted but it’s just…so much. I’ve never had hockey be everything in my life, there was always something else. And now I feel like I’m drowning and no matter how much I keep kicking, I’m no closer to the surface. And the older guys seem so put together and I was trying to take their advice but it isn’t really working out and—” Ethan paused, his cheeks flushing a light pink colour when he realised he had begun rambling. “Like I said, it’s stupid.”

“It’s not stupid,” you replied and he was almost shocked to see the sincerity on your face. “It’s perfectly normal to feel overwhelmed. It’s a big jump. It would be weirder if you weren’t more stressed.” 

He swallowed. “Really?” 

“Yeah, I mean,” you began, the pizza forgotten on the coffee table as you turned your body on the couch until you were facing him. “Your life will never be normal again. You’ve been shoved into the spotlight and you will continue to be there forever. That’s overwhelming as fuck. And you’re trying to catch up with a bunch of guys who have been here for years, who have had seasons to figure out who they are and who they want to be. It was always going to be an uphill battle.” 

Something in his chest warmed at your understanding. 

“Guess I have a lot to look forward to then, huh?” He tried joking because it felt easier than trying to say the words that were getting stuck in the back of his throat.

“I get it,” you explained with a small nod. “Not at the same level, but I get it. Every day I wake up and I know I’m working towards the thing I want to do for the rest of my life but, fuck, some days are just harder than others. I feel like I’m sacrificing so much of my ‘best years’ doing this and sometimes I just…wonder if it’s worth it.”

“That’s intense,” Ethan murmured with his lips turned downwards.

You gave him a sad smile. “Life can be overwhelming in a lot of ways. It’s just about finding things that help us…destress, I guess.”

“Which is hard to do when you’re a rookie in the NHL who doesn’t know who the fuck he is anymore or a student spending every free moment working her ass off in a shitty job with a shitty manager to pay for college,” Ethan added with a sorrowful smile of his own. 

“Bingo,” you snorted.

“So,” Ethan sighed as he settled back against the couch. “What’s our game plan?” 

You raised your brows. “Game plan?” 

“Yeah, what are we gonna do to destress? We can help each other,” Ethan stated like it was obvious. “Like a ‘you scratch my back, I scratch yours’ situation.” 

You shot him a look. “I’m not scratching your back.” 

Ethan tilted his head, a grin on his lips. “So I’m assuming massages are off the table too?” 

His laugh echoed through the apartment as you threw a pillow at his face. 

. 

If Ethan was being completely honest, he didn’t think finding a destressing hobby would be so…stressful.

He had tried asking a few other guys on the team for inspiration and advice. It hadn’t been as successful as he had hoped. Though, at least he knew a handful of weird facts about the boys he played with, so it wasn’t completely useless. Team bonding and all that jazz. 

But the hobby-searching was starting to reach a point where he thought about it more than hockey. 

He couldn’t help but feel like something was wrong with him. So many of the guys on the team had shared the hobbies they had outside of hockey to help relax. He even spoke to some of the UMich boys that had joined the NHL before him for some advice too. But nothing really clicked, nothing shut his brain off. 

Golfing was too time-consuming to enjoy during the regular season. The mediocre attempt at knitting resulted in a massive knotted ball of yarn being chucked into the bin. He tried reading but got bored after the first few chapters. And it felt a bit pathetic and mind-numbing (the bad kind) when he found himself watching the third episode in a row of some trashy reality TV show that had been playing. 

Nothing was giving him that relief and that step away from the busy, hectic schedule an NHL player brought. 

“You got a new potential hobby for us?” 

Ethan lifted his head to see you closing the front door behind you, bundled in about five layers of clothing you were slowly deshedding before you made your way over to him. He watched as your eyes went to the mess on the coffee table, your lips pressed together to hold back your laugh. 

“What are you doing?” You questioned, tilting your head like it would help you figure out the little project he had been working on since you left for your class a few hours ago.

“It’s meant to be a model plane,” Ethan sighed, a tad too dramatic before he turned to you with a pout on his face. “Johnny said it was easy. He used to do them when he was, like, ten years old. I think he is lying to me.” 

You snorted. “Or maybe he followed the instructions.” 

Ethan frowned. “There’s instructions?” 

You shook your head, trying to hold back your laughs as you settled on the couch beside him. There was a hint of deja vu to that day a few weeks ago—the day Ethan likes to believe the start of your buddying friendship began.

“You’ll find something,” you reassured him, nudging his shoulder with your own. 

“I think some of the guys are just messing with me with some of the hobbies they suggest,” Ethan confessed. “Curtis does not seem like a knitter at all.” 

You laughed. “Yeah no, he was definitely messing with you.” 

“Knew it,” Ethan grumbled before shrugging. “Seamus thinks I’m just being dramatic.” 

“I’m inclined to agree,” you retorted. 

He shot you a look but you didn’t seem too bothered by his glare. 

“He thinks I just need to get laid,” Ethan murmured, his eyes settling back on the lump on the coffee table that was supposed to resemble a plane. 

“So why don’t you?” 

Ethan blinked as he turned back to you. “Why don’t I, what?” 

“Why don’t you just go get laid?” You asked, turning your body slightly so you were properly facing him. “Are you a virgin?”

Ethan startled. “What? No. No, I’m not a virgin.” 

 “Then I can’t imagine it would be too difficult for you to find someone.” 

“Thanks?” Ethan frowned a little before shrugging his shoulders. “I don’t know, s’just a little much right now. I don’t really wanna go and sleep with anyone. And I’m a little too busy to properly start something with someone, you know? It wouldn’t be fair on them if I was…flaky.” 

“What if we slept together?” 

Ethan let out a choked noise of surprise. 

You gave him an odd look. “What?”

“Us? Sleep together? Like sex?” Ethan blurted out, his voice a little more high pitched than usual. 

“Well, I don’t mean just having a sleepover,” you answered with a shrug.

His brows furrowed together. “Would it not be…weird?” 

“No, why would it be?” You retorted, sounding so sure of yourself. “I’m busy, you’re busy. I guess you’re attractive and if you find me attractive too, I don’t see what the issue is. It’s convenient for us both.” 

His eyes narrowed. “You guess I’m attractive?” 

“This is not the time for your ego,” you huffed, though he could see your lips twitching upwards.

“No no, this is the perfect time for my ego,” Ethan started, his back straightening as he sat up in his seat.

“Are you in or not?”

His eyes dropped down to your lips for a few moments before returning to your eyes. “Y-Yeah, I’m in.” 

…

DECEMBER

As it would turn out, it was far from weird. It was actually pretty fucking great. 

The awkward tension Ethan expected to rise from the first time you two slept together didn’t actually happen. The next day, everything was back to normal and, if it weren’t for the hickeys dotted over his torso, he would have assumed he dreamt the whole thing up. 

It was surprisingly refreshing. The buddying friendship between you and Ethan continued to grow as the days passed, just like he wanted, there was just also the added bonus that sometimes the two of you fucked to let off some steam.

And as much as it pained him to say, Seamus was right. He just needed to get laid. He just needed to go back to something he knew he would always be good at, that didn’t take up too much space in his brain and felt as natural as breathing to him. 

He just needed to feel someone else’s body pressed up against him, whispered moans of his name doing more to help shut up that voice in the back of his head far better than the crowds of fans screaming and chanting his name. 

He was really missing out for all these with the whole ‘friends with benefits’ thing.

“Ethan.” 

“Hm?”

“We can’t.”

“I think we can,” he murmured against your neck, his smile pressed against your skin as he placed a line of chaste kisses just below your jaw. 

Your eyes fluttered close as his large hand splayed against your stomach, fingers brushing over your heated skin as he settled on the bed behind you. “You’re gonna miss your bus,” you managed to mutter out, a little breathless as you felt him rolling his hips against your ass.

“They won’t leave without me,” he assured you as he tugged you further back into him. Your panties had been kicked off somewhere under the sheets, not that either of you cared enough to give it a second thought. It just made it easier for Ethan to slip his hand between your legs, to listen to the choked noise of surprise you let out when his finger pressed on your clit. 

“That’s not how it works,” you murmured, letting out a whine when he stilled his hand between your legs, focusing on marking the spot at the base of your neck that made your arch against him. “You’re gonna miss the bus and the team will be annoyed and you’re gonna—”

“Shhhh,” Ethan mumbled against your skin. “Too much talking.” 

“Ethan.”

He let out a groan, his head dropping to your shoulder where he pressed a soft kiss there before lifting his head to shoot you a look. 

“Don’t look at me like that,” you murmured with a snort. “It’s a seven day roadie. You’ll survive.” 

“Maybe I’m really stressed about it,” he shot back. “Maybe a quickie before I leave would help me destress.” 

You shook your head in amusement. “You’d be a lot less stressed if you weren’t thirty minutes late already.” 

Ethan’s head snapped over to the clock on your bedside table. “Shit.”

“Told you so!” You called out as he scrambled his way towards the bathroom for the quickest shower of his life. 

“Shut up!” 

.

“That’s new.”

“What’s new?” Ethan questioned, leaning down to lace up his skates with the efficiency of a man who had spent the better part of his life in ice skates. He didn’t notice the shit-eating grin on Luke’s face until he sat back up and found the boy staring at him. “What?”

“Well, either the rats from your old apartment have found your new place and decided to take revenge or there’s a different reason for the marks on your back,” Luke retorted with a knowing glint in his eyes. 

“Marks are an understatement,” Seamus snorted, sitting on the stall on the other side of Ethan. He didn’t know what he did to deserve being stuck between the two of them. “Your back is mauled, dude. Who did you sleep with, a werewolf?” 

“No,” Ethan scoffed, his cheeks burning red. “Don’t be jealous you can’t get the same reaction out of a girl.” 

“So there’s a girl?” Luke chimed in, like the little nosey shit he was. 

“Maybe,” Ethan answered vaguely with a shrug of his shoulders. “It’s just a casual thing. Nothing serious.” 

“Glad you finally took my advice,” Seamus grinned. 

Ethan rolled his eyes. 

“What’s her name?” Luke asked. 

To be fair, you and Ethan never discussed the logistics of your situation beyond the actual sex part. He enjoyed the little bubble the two of you shared in your apartment. It was like the two of you forgot there were other people, that the signs would be there for people to pick up on. And he wasn’t exactly sure if it was something you would want people to know, even Luke. 

He tried to bargain with himself that it wasn’t serious so there was no need for Luke or the other boys to know. You two were just scratching an itch for each other, that’s it. You were still friends at the end of the day, he didn’t want to ruin that because other people thought there was something more serious.

Ethan shrugged. “Uh, you don’t know her.”

Luke cocked an eyebrow. “So surely it doesn’t matter if we know her name or not.” 

“It’s not like she’s my girlfriend or anything,” Ethan retorted, squirming a little under Luke’s gaze. “Shouldn’t you be getting ready? Coach wants us out in five minutes.” 

“Subtlety is not your forte, Edwards,” Luke snorted in response. 

. 

The roadie ends up being a complete shit show.

Three games and they lost every single one of them. Three games and the loss just got worse with each game, with the final game being an embarrassing 5-1 loss. And all the boys were upset and annoyed about the results, but Ethan felt like he was going to lose his mind. 

His suit felt uncomfortable and itchy against his body, like some foreign layer he desperately wanted to shed. His skin felt taut and stretched across his bones, the urge to claw at his skin so overwhelming that he forced himself to focus on picking the skin around his nails instead because it was less likely to get him odd looks from the other boys. 

He had ignored Luke and Seamus’ attempts at pep-talks in the locker room, both boys seeming determined to try and reassure him the loss was not his fault—like it would stop the fumbled plays playing on a loop in his head. He watched Nico climb onto the bus, eyeing the empty seat next to him but he wasn’t in the mood to be babysat by his captain. He put his bag on the chair next to him and put his headphones on, pretending he couldn’t feel everyone’s eyes on him.

He wasn’t sure what time it was when they finally arrived back in New Jersey, but he didn’t care to know. He didn’t give anyone a chance to pull him back for a chat. He grabbed his bags and bolted to his car, wanting nothing more than to get out of his suit and just mope in his bed until practice in a few days. 

Ethan wasn’t expecting for you to still be awake.

He jumped when he spotted you on the couch, the TV still on but on mute as it played some random sitcom he couldn’t quite remember the name of. His eyes wandered over your figure, huddled up in the corner of the couch with a blanket covering your legs and a Devils branded hoodie he didn’t quite know whether it was one of your own or one of his. He wasn’t sure if he wanted to know. 

“You’re back earlier than I expected,” you spoke up, breaking the weird, tense silence that seemed to be suffocating the apartment since he walked in. 

“We left just after the game,” he replied, his voice a little raspy considering it was the first time he had spoken since the end of the game. “Boys wanted to get home.” 

You nodded. “M’glad you’re back. The place is pretty quiet without you.” 

It was lighthearted. It was an opening for him to plaster on a smile and pretend he was okay. It was a chance for him to escape the same awkward conversations he avoided from his teammates. 

But he was tired—the bone deep kind—and he didn’t have it in himself to keep pretending. Not in front of you. 

“I’m not sure I’m feeling very talkative right now,” he admitted, swallowing back the acidic taste in his mouth, the one that had been lingering since he stepped on the bus with all his disappointed teammates. 

“We don’t have to talk about it,” you reassured him as you patted the spot on the couch beside you. “We can just sit in absolute silence if you want.” 

“I’m not sure I want that either,” he confessed as his body slumped against the couch, melting into the fabric as he tried to ignore the constant buzzing voices in his head. “Just wanna forget the last week, to be honest.”

“That’s fair,” you hummed in agreement. “The refs were biassed dicks anyways. It wasn’t fair.” 

He turned his head to look at you, his surprise clearly expressed on his face. “You watched?” 

“I did,” you gave him a soft smile. “It wasn’t a pretty sight. I’m surprised the neighbours didn’t make a noise complaint against me when they put Luke in the box.” 

And despite himself, he couldn’t help but snort. “They had it out for him and Jack.”

Your eyes narrowed. “Dicks.” 

His lips twitched upwards. “Dicks indeed.” 

Ethan let his head fall back against the back of the couch, let the exhaustion settle in as his eyes fluttered shut and, for the first time in the last week, let himself have some semblance of relaxation even if his brain was still on overdrive.

“I know you don’t want to talk about it,” you started and his body instantly tensed up at your words. And maybe you would feel his body lock up, considering his thigh was pressed against yours and the couch wasn’t all that big either. “But I am here if you want to talk. Have someone who’s not on the team to listen to you.” 

He swallowed the lump in the back of his throat. “Just feel like I let them down.” 

“You didn’t,” your voice soft but sincere. “And I bet the boys would agree.” 

“I just…” he let out a sigh, keeping his eyes closed because it somehow made the next few sentences easier to say out loud. “I know no one likes losing. I would be a pretty bad professional athlete if I liked losing. But, I don’t know, it just…sucks more now.” 

“Because the stakes are higher?”

“Because there’s more people seeing my mistakes,” he murmured, his words short and sharp. “This is all unreal. Being able to live out my dream and play in the NHL. But every time I make a mistake, I just feel like I’m waiting for the other shoe to drop. Like I’m waiting for someone to tell me it’s all a joke or I have been moved down or I get dropped and that’s the end of my career.” 

There was a short pause. 

“I’m scared it’s all gonna be for nothing.” 

He wasn’t sure what response he expected. Truthfully, he had no intentions of ever telling you any of this. Or anyone for that matter. He had no intentions of ever saying the words out loud, letting them fester and swirl around in the back of his mind when he was left with his thoughts alone for too long. 

And yet, he had just blurted them out to you. 

Maybe he was more tired than he realised. 

“Why did you keep playing hockey?” 

Ethan frowned a little, his eyes blinking back open as he turned to look at you again. “What?” 

“Why did you keep playing hockey?” You asked again, something swirling in your eyes but he couldn’t quite work out what. “It’s one thing to be a fan. You’re Canadian so I guess you kinda have to be. And I assume your parents put you into lessons. But why did you keep up with it? Why did you keep playing?” 

“Because I love the sport,” he answered without any hesitation.

“Exactly, you love the sport,” you repeated with a soft smile on your lips. “It’s why you stayed. It’s why you play the next game even if you lost the last one. It’s why it’s your dream, why you kept working towards the NHL. And even after the shit show of the roadie, it’s why you will go out and play the next game.” 

Ethan stayed silent but he didn’t move his eyes away from yours. 

“It’s normal to have doubts. It’s normal to second guess yourself and assume the worst and let yourself spiral,” you continued. “It’s your rookie year. It isn’t easy for anyone. It wasn’t easy for Luke, for Seamus, for any of the boys. But you love the sport and the sport loved you back. Even on the bad days.” 

“That was poetic,” he murmured, his voice a little raspy and thick with emotion. 

“I was great at English in school,” you retorted with a grin. “You’re allowed to feel scared. And you’re allowed to be upset after you lose. But you’re a part of the team, nobody is putting the loss on your shoulders and you shouldn’t either. It’s your weight to bear together.”

Ethan’s eyes narrowed. “Did Nico message you?” 

You snorted, and something about the sound made his chest tighten. In a good way, though. 

“No, but considering how fast you got here, I would be wary that he will probably show up tomorrow morning to take you for a coffee check up,” you murmured. “Or he will corner you in the locker room.” 

Ethan nodded. “Thank you. For listening and stuff.” 

You flashed him a smile as you nudged his shoulder with your own. “That’s what friends are for.”

It was almost ironic that Ethan had spent the last few months working towards the title of your friend, only to feel almost disappointed when you said it. 

. 

Nico had been the one to organise the New Years Party.

All the boys from the team were there. There were other Devils employees from the marketing, media and training teams. There were friends and friends-of-friends. There were people he had never met before. 

But it was a party and the buzz of the new year was humming through them all, and somewhere amongst it all, someone had suggested a game of truth or dare.

Ethan thinks it was Curtis, who was just drunk and nosy and a bit bored.

“Right, Baby Hughes, you gotta pick!”

Luke let out a groan, slumping into the person next to him—a chuckling John Marino who seemed amused by the glint in Curtis’ eyes—before nodding. “I feel targeted.”

Curtis grinned. “Never.”

“You’ve asked me every single time,” Luke grumbled under his breath, cheeks tinted pink and warm. “Surely this is against the rules. Right, Cap?”

Nico raised his hands in surrender. “Do not drag me into this!” 

Luke’s eyes narrowed. “So much for looking out for your boys.”

“Pick someone else before he starts getting whiny,” Jack called out, grinning widely as he dodged Luke’s elbow to his side. “I don’t wanna hear him bitching on the way back home.” 

“Fine, fine,” Curtis snorted, eyes scanning over the busy room before his eyes paused on Ethan. “Alright, Edwards, rookie’s turn. Truth or dare.” 

Ethan straightened a little, something determined in his eyes. “Truth,” he answered with a grin. “I’ve been warned of your dares.” 

“Smart,” Jesper coughed under his breath. 

“Truth, he says,” Curtis mused as he sat back in his seat, contemplative and cunning before he spoke again. 

“Play nice,” Nico teased.

“Cap’s orders,” Curtis hummed before he spoke. “Alright then, rookie, fess up. Which teammate is your least favourite? Name and shame.” 

Ethan blinked. “This feels like a trap.” 

“Oh, it certainly is,” Ondrej snorted.

“Don’t take him seriously,” Luke spoke up, leaning his head back to catch Ethan’s gaze. “He did the same to me and Simon. And Seamus last year. It’s his thing.” 

Ethan raised his brows. “Is there a right answer?” 

“Hey, no cheating!” Curtis called out. 

“Maybe my answer is you,” Ethan called back teasingly. 

“Oh, pretty boy has some fire,” the older man laughed, happily and drunkenly but it seemed enough to satisfy him before Nico was rounding everyone around for the midnight countdown.

The funny thing was that Ethan always knew that hockey was a team sport and every team he had ever played on—from the peewee team he played on as a kid to the boys he played with in UMich—every single one of them felt like a family, a place where he belonged and a team he loved both on and off ice. 

The Devils had been another one of those teams—his newest family. It had been terrifying, a lingering thought in the back of his head since he had been drafted. Every team he played for before were teams he would move on from, stepping stones in his dreams. But the NHL was at the top and he didn’t want to fuck that up. He didn’t want to feel left out from his new family. 

The Devils family had welcomed him with open arms. 

He truly couldn’t complain. He felt a connection with these boys on and off the ice, he felt like the newest member in this patchwork family that was really cared for. Even now, as the seconds ticked down to midnight, there was warmth and camaraderie in the air as they welcomed the new year. 

And yet, it was the most devastating loneliness he had ever felt in his life.

Because the clock struck twelve and the cheers echoed through the house and yet, his eyes were searching in the crowd of people. Searching for the one person he wanted by his side. Searching for the first person he has ever had the urge to kiss into the new year. 

Because Ethan Edwards spent breaking in the new year wishing he was beside you. 

…

JANUARY

New Years opened his eyes in ways that he hadn’t really considered before.

Unfortunately, eye opening nights are a bit difficult to focus on when you’re a professional athlete in the NHL hitting January in your rookie year. Because they were only half way through the regular season in one of the most physically and mentally intense years of his life, and he was a bit too fucking tired to have emotional epiphanies.

Which was fine if it weren’t for the fact he was currently in the middle of drills and his brain was definitely not focused on hockey. 

“Edwards!” 

Ethan blinked, his body moving before his brain could properly catch up. He had never been more grateful for the military-routine of drills he had been doing for as long as he had been skating. 

His muscles were screaming by the time the boys were starting to head back into the locker room, laughing and shoving each other and discussing strategies for the game against the Sabres the following day. But he lingered behind, stick twisting in his hand as he tapped a few pucks closer to the net. 

He had tried not to stare at the person lingering on the ice behind him, watching him, observing him.

He managed five shots before the person spoke up. 

“You should lower your right hand a little,” Jack called out, lingering at the blue line. “It will help with the shot.” 

His next shot hit the back corner perfectly. 

Ethan straightened his back, nodding a little before glancing over his shoulder. “Thanks.” 

“Anytime,” Jack responded, taking it as his cue to skate closer towards him. “You good? You should be getting some rest before the game tomorrow.” 

“Yeah, just…wanted some extra practice on my shots,” Ethan said, shrugging his shoulders. “It needs some work.” 

Jack nodded. “You’re having a good year.”

“Could be better,” Ethan retorted before he could stop himself. It was meant to be lighthearted, playful even. Instead, it came out a little self-deprecating and he winced at himself.

“It gets better,” Jack assured him, his expression a little softer. “The rookie year is always the worst, the media attention and expectations and everything. But it gets better when you find yourself, find your footing.” 

“I know,” he murmured because he wasn’t sure what else to say. Nobody really talked about Jack’s rookie year. Not in much detail, not beyond a few comments here and there he had heard over the years in the lakehouse. 

He was more than grateful that his own rookie year wasn’t anything like Jack’s. 

“Enjoy it,” Jack continued, a kind expression on his face. It wasn’t hard to work out why Jack was given the ‘A’ on his jersey. “I know it’s easier said than done, but don’t let the critics get to you too much. They just wanna put pressure on you, make you squirm.” 

And oh. 

Because now Ethan was standing there, staring back at Jack like a hopeless idiot, realising he and the rest of the boys probably assumed his mood had been related to hockey. To the articles written about him. To the most likely and very reasonable explanation. 

Not the fact Ethan was pretty sure he liked his friends-with-benefits roommate in a not very friends-with-benefits way. 

His cheeks burned at the realisation. 

“Uh, yeah,” he nodded helplessly, hoping his smile didn’t look as strained as it felt. “No, you’re right. I…I’ll try to really enjoy it. Not get in my own head too much.” 

“Good,” Jack smiled back at him, all sweet and genuine and making him feel like a bit of a dick. “I’m here if you ever need a chat, you know? And I’m better at giving advice than Luke.” 

Ethan snorted. “I don’t doubt that for a second.”

. 

The issue was that despite his eye-opening realisation, Ethan Edwards quickly realised he was a bit of a coward when it came to expressing his feelings. 

Or, for that matter, confronting them.

It was odd for Ethan, if he was being completely honest with himself. Because he was usually good with these kinds of things. He knew when it was a ‘no strings attached’ situation, when to remove himself from any feelings that would compliment the matter. And he knew when it was serious, when the feelings were reciprocated, when there was something more than physical between him and the other person. 

But that awareness was thrown out the window when it came to you. 

It was like he had a little voice in his head, desperately trying to yell out how he felt about you until Ethan reached his breaking point and did something he couldn’t take back. 

So, he did what any reasonable person did and locked that little voice away, pushed it to the back of his mind where it couldn’t bother him. And then he continued living his life like he couldn’t hear the rattling box in the background of every waking moment. 

It was easy with hockey. Despite his little blip at the start of the month, he managed to prevent the annoying voice affecting his game on the ice. He stayed focused and concentrated and attentive. He managed to complete his drills and find the passes and shoot some goals so none of his teammates would catch on to his lacking grasp on his feelings. 

But at home? With you? He clearly wasn’t coping as well as he thought he was. 

“Are you okay?” 

Ethan paused, body frozen as his brain wracked through a million different thoughts before he turned to look where you were sitting on the couch. 

“Uh yeah,” he managed to blurt out, a slightly strained laugh following. “Why?” 

“You’ve just seemed off the last few weeks,” you admitted with a shrug of your shoulders. “Like, tense and stuff.” 

“S’just hockey stuff,” Ethan murmured with a stiff smile, the lie tasting bitter and acidic on his tongue. “The boys have just been talking about how playoffs are sneaking up on us and I just…guess I’ve been a little in my own head about it.” 

You nodded in understanding. “You need days to chill out, you know? Take your mind off hockey.” 

Ethan raised his brows. “You got any suggestions, sweetheart?” 

“Actually,” you retorted with a knowing smile. “I do. I know exactly what you need to get out of your head.” 

. 

“You know, when you crawled onto my lap, I was expecting a very different outcome,” Ethan murmured, struggling not to move his lips too much as he focused on the concentrating expression on your face. 

“Need to get your head out of the gutter, Edwards,” you teased, biting back your smile as you continued to sweep the brush across his face, careful to avoid his eyebrows while you were at it. “Facemasks are soothing and relaxing. Plus, your skin probably needs it after all the travelling you do.” 

“Excuse you,” his nose scrunched. “I have a skincare routine.” 

You chuckled. “Yeah, Luke told me that you ripped into Seamus after he used your fancy moisturiser.” 

“It’s expensive,” he murmured in defence before the rest of your words caught up on him. “You talk about me to Luke?” 

“Mostly to bitch,” you said with a lighthearted, teasing smile.

Yet, something in his chest tightened at the idea regardless.

“As long as you’re talking about me,” he shot back, something victorious washing over him at the way you laughed. 

You leaned back a little, still sat on his lap with his hands on your waist to keep you balanced. You snorted at the mask covering his face before grinning. “Now, we have to keep these on for twenty minutes. And try not to move your face too much.” 

Ethan ignored your words, pouting in response. “So if I asked you to make out—”

“I would tell you to fat chance,” you finished with a grin. “But I’ll admit the pink headband is really working for you.” 

Ethan wiggled his eyebrows, once against ignoring the pointed look you shot him. “Enough for a kiss?” 

“Enough for an episode of Pretty Little Liars,” you shot back at him, your smile widening at the sound of his groan but it still didn’t stop him from tugging you close before you could sit on the other side of the couch. “Or at least finish the one we started last night before—”

“I rocked your world?” 

“Started drooling on my shoulder,” you corrected.

“That was after I made you come twice,” Ethan piped up, lightly pinching your side until you squirmed further onto his lap. “They cancel each other out.” 

“Whatever you say, princess,” you snorted, eyes gleaming as you pressed play on the remote before he could come up with a witty comeback. 

And, somewhere in the back of his mind, there was a distant voice screaming at him to say something. Telling him this was the perfect opportunity to say something to you. To just admit how he was feeling and end the pathetic pining he had been experiencing for the last few weeks. 

But the mere idea of losing this—losing you—kept his mouth shut as he finally turned his attention to the tv and pretended like his stomach didn’t twist at his own cowardice. 

…

FEBRUARY

Before he knew it, they were hitting February and all the buzz in the hockey world was around All Stars.

Ethan hadn’t been too concerned about it or the discussions leading up to the reveal on which team members would be heading out for the event. His mind had been preoccupied on the season, on playoffs approaching, on you. In all honesty, All Stars hadn’t even crossed his mind until the team was being rounded up into the locker room for the announcement. 

It was not too much of a surprise that Luke had been selected for the Devils (most people expected it to be one of the Hughes brothers). 

However, it was a shock to hear his own name follow. 

“Looks like the fans want to see more of the pretty boy,” Curtis called out, joking and teasing and, yet, it still made his cheeks burn as the boys all slapped him on the back. 

“Baby’s first All Stars,” Timo cooed jokingly, reaching out to pinch his cheek but Ethan was quick to slap his hand away. 

“It’s Luke’s first too,” he defended weakly, a smile on his lips as he spoke.

“At least he is losing one of his virginities,” Seamus coughed under his breath, letting out a high-pitched yelp when the younger Hughes reached to smack him across the back of his head. 

“I hope you get a horrible sunburn in Mexico,” Luke retorted with a deadpan expression. 

Seamus snorted. “Don’t get bitchy because your ticket is non-refundable.” 

Luke reached out to slap him again but he had already run off towards the showers, laughing and shoving some of the other boys into Luke’s path to help with his escape. 

Ethan shook his head in amusement. 

“Enjoy it,” another voice spoke up and he turned to find Nico standing beside his stall, a kind and genuine smile on his face as he patted his shoulder. “It’s fun. Promise.” 

“More fun than chilling on a beach somewhere?” Ethan retorted with a knowing smile.

“It’s up there,” Nico grinned. 

“But if Michael Buble offers you anything, say no,” Jack spoke up from the other side of the locker room. “Trust me.” 

.

“How does it feel to be with all the big boys?” 

“You saying I’m not a big boy?” 

“You know exactly what I meant, perv.” 

It was true. Ethan knew exactly what you meant. But he could almost imagine the way you rolled your eyes when you spoke, your nose scrunched up and your eyebrows furrowed and it sent a pang of something aching through him. 

It was almost too pathetic to comprehend. 

All Stars was insane. Truly, absolutely, positively insane. It was one thing to watch it from the comfort of his own couch. It was a whole other thing to be a part of it. And he knew he shouldn’t be starstruck, not really. He had spent the better part of the last few months playing against some of these guys. 

But being in a not-as-competitive setting with the likes of Sidney Crosby and Nathan MacKinnon was a surreal experience he hadn’t fully wrapped his head around since he arrived.

And yet, here he was, all smiley and giddy and excited over the fact you had called him. The fact that you missed him enough, that you were thinking about him enough to call him whilst he was away. 

“I stand by my question,” Ethan replied, shuffling further back into the plush pillows of his hotel bed as he held his phone to his ear. “Do you not think I’m a big boy?”

“I’m not going to talk up your dick size for the sake of your ego, Edwards.” 

Ethan snorted despite himself. “Worth a shot. Could have made it really hot.” 

“I refuse to have phone sex with you when Luke is probably in the room.” 

“He’s not here,” Ethan said quickly, pausing for a moment before he continued. “Well, he’s gone out to grab us some snacks from the store around the corner but—”

“Exactly.” His stomach dipped a little as your laugh echoed through the phone. “Now, tell me everything.” 

For a moment he wondered if it would be worth trying to facetime you to see your face or if that was pushing it too far. 

“What do you want to know?” He retorted, his eyes closing shut as he tried to imagine the expression on your face as you thought. 

“I don’t know! The important stuff! Like if Sidney Crosby is as hot in real life?” 

Ethan blinked. “That’s your big question? If he’s as hot as he is on screen?” 

Your reply came with no hesitation. “Yes.”

“Wow, so we can’t talk about my dick, which has been inside of you by the way, but we can talk about whether or not Sidney Crosby is hot.” There was a pause before he sighed. “Yeah, he is. Maybe even hotter.” 

“I fucking knew it.”

“So you don’t even miss me? Not even a little bit?” Ethan questioned, trying to sound playful and lighthearted, hoping the small slivers of insecurity weren’t being translated through the phone.

“Don’t start pouting on me, Edwards. Of course I miss you.” Your voice was softer, more sincere. Or at least he was deluding himself into thinking as much. “Found a show for us to watch when you’re back. It looked good but I didn’t want to start it alone.” 

It was embarrassing how big his smile was. “Yeah?” 

“Yeah,” you hummed before gasping. “Oh god, I almost forgot to tell you. You won’t believe what happened at work the other night.” 

Ethan huffed. “Don’t tell me it was—” 

“Yup! And you’ll never guess what she did—” 

It hit Ethan in the chest when he was lying on the foreign bed in a non-descriptive hotel room, phone pressed against his ear as you rambled away. It hit him just how much he enjoyed this, how much he enjoyed you. That it was beyond the physical attraction, that it was much deeper than a silly little crush. 

It hit him how much he wanted this forever.  

But he knew better to do it on the phone. He knew it had to be said face-to-face. He knew he needed you in front of him when he uttered the words. He knew he needed to be looking in your eyes when he blurted his feelings out. 

So, he promised himself. 

He promised himself he would do it when he headed back to New Jersey. He promised himself he would do it when he saw you. He promised himself he was just going to deal with it head on and not run away like he had been doing for the last month or two. 

He promised he was not going to be a coward anymore. 

.

It was embarrassing how quickly he threw his own promise out of the window. 

Ethan was fucking exhausted by the time their plane laned back in New Jersey. It was barely even eight in the evening and he was ready to slump face first onto his bed and not get up for a few days—even if he knew they had practice the following afternoon. 

But it was the principle of it all. 

It was the mere exhaustion of it all. 

And you took one look at him before you opened your arms, inviting him to join you on the couch. Ethan couldn’t even bring himself to feel too bad about the groan you let out as he slumped himself on top of you.

“Make sure they had good music at my funeral,” he grumbled, his face nuzzled into the crook of your neck and his lips brushing against your skin as he spoke.

You hummed, your hands moving on instinct to run your fingers through his hair. “How do you feel about Barbie Girl?”

“Love it,” he murmured, a soft groan leaving his lips as your nails scratched along his scalp. “Missed you.” 

“I missed you too, Edwards,” you whispered, soft and almost breathless. He wondered for a moment if he was leaning too heavily on your chest and winding you. “I never knew you talked in your sleep.” 

Ethan froze. 

“Luke sent me some interesting videos,” you continued and he could almost hear the smile in your voice. “You should really watch who you have sleepovers with.” 

Ethan clenched his eyes shut, trying to nuzzle himself further into your neck. “M’gonna kill him.” 

“It was just one video,” you assured him, lightly tugging his hair until he lifted his head to look at you. “Cute that you were so jealous over me liking Sidney that you started to sleep talking about it.” 

His cheeks heated up. “I wasn’t jealous.” 

You beamed back at him. “Uh huh, sure.” 

Ethan narrowed his eyes at you. “This is emotional blackmail.”

“Aw, don’t let me stop you from doing it again,” you teased, unable to hide your amusement as his cheeks burned redder. “Would it make you feel better if I said I was jealous you got to hang around him all week?” 

Ethan paused before he spoke. “Yes.” 

You nodded. “Then, I was deeply jealous and envious that you got to hang around Sidney Crosby, the hottest guy in the league—”

“Oh my god,” Ethan groaned as he braced his hands on either side of you, prepared to push himself off you and the couch and sulk in his room. But before he could get far, you were winding your arms and legs around him and pulling him back down. “Nuh uh, let me go. You can go cuddle with Sidney since you think he’s so hot.”

“You’re such a drama queen,” you mused, choosing to be nice and not comment on the way he completely nuzzled himself back into your arms, eyes falling shut and relaxation taking over his body for the first time in a week. 

“You’re a bully,” he retorted, words muffled from the way his cheek was pressed against your shoulder. 

“You like it,” you retorted, keeping the banter going but it made Ethan’s head spin. 

Because he did. He did like it. He liked you. He liked coming back home to you and he liked lying on the couch with you. He liked kissing you and he liked the noises you made for him when he touched you. 

He liked you more than he cared to admit. 

He liked you too much to lose you. 

He liked what the two of you had. He liked it too much to risk losing it all over unreciprocated feelings. Feelings could change—his feelings could change. There was no need to ruin a good thing. 

He had hockey to focus on. He had the team to focus on. He had playoffs to focus on.

Now was not the time to change everything, superstitions or not. 

…

MARCH

March Madness was no joke. 

It was pure fucking chaos and no previous league or championship he had ever played for could rival just how hectic the whole thing was. The Devils were having a good season. A great fucking season if they were being honest. And they were so, so, so fucking close to clinching that playoff spot. 

But fuck if the other teams weren’t making it real fucking difficult for them. 

Ethan knew that things were going to get rougher, tougher, harder when the playoff desperation started to settle in, when the end of the regular season was on the horizon and teams were starting to get dirty to extend their season. 

He just underestimated how desperate they were willing to get. 

It was easy to see why Nico Hishcier was so beloved by the team, by the fans, by the boys. To see why he was chosen as captain because he was nothing but supportive and determined and encouraging. He wasn’t letting them get too comfortable, he was keeping the boys working towards playing their best. 

But he was also the damn proudest of them all. 

It almost made the hits against the boards worth it. 

Almost being the operative word seeing as he felt like his whole body was bruised as they came off a game against the Rangers. 

“Fuck,” Ethan hissed as he all but waddled into the locker room, helmet in hand and skateguards on. “I think I’m bruised in places I didn’t know you could be bruised.” 

Seamus snorted. “Fucking tell me about it.” 

“The hit during the second period looked rough,” Luke spoke up from the stall beside him. “You sure you’re good?” 

“Medical checked me over during the intermission,” Ethan assured him with a faint smile. “Just gonna be sore for the next few days.” 

Luke’s eyes gleamed. “No strenuous activities then?” 

Ethan rolled his eyes. 

“Oh please,” Seamus mused, giving Luke a nudge with his elbow. “He’s a pillow princess.” 

“Fuck off both of you,” Ethan snorted, already starting to peel his jersey off.

 It wasn’t until he was almost dressed where he finally grabbed his phone out of his bag, turning it back on to see a flurry of notifications to take over his screen. His brows furrowed together in surprise as he skimmed over them.

“Is that a certain roommate?” Luke asked, peeking over his shoulder like the nosy shit he was but Ethan had already chucked his phone back in his bag. 

“Nah, it’s just Patricia,” Ethan shrugged.

Luke blinked. “Who the fuck is Patricia?” 

Ethan shot him an odd look. “Patricia, the woman from the estate agency you recommended to me.” 

Luke gave him a pensive look. “Why is she blowing up your phone?” 

Ethan shrugged again. “Your guess is as good as mine.” 

. 

As it would turn out, Patricia was contacting him because the apartment he originally signed on for at the start of the year seemed to have sorted the rat infestation problem. 

She was cheery in her voicemail she left for him, like it was the best possible news Ethan could have ever received. And maybe it would have been a few months ago, back in September. Even a good few weeks into October, Ethan would have been over the fucking moon to hear his old apartment was available again. 

Yet, as he listened to the voicemail now, he couldn’t help but let a sense of dread wash over him. 

It was stupid in a way because he knew from the start his situation wasn’t permanent. He knew it was always a short-term solution to a short-term problem. He knew the arrangement between you both wouldn’t last forever—both as roommates and friends with benefits. 

There was always a timer on it, but Ethan let himself get lost in the familiarity of it all that the upcoming ending hit him like an unexpected slap in the face.

If he was a sensible and good guy, he would have called Patricia back. He would have told her he was just as happy to hear the update on the previously rat infested apartment. He would have told her he was happy to move in as soon as he can, to have his own place in New Jersey to call his home and his home alone. He would have told her to send over all the paperwork as soon as she can. 

But Ethan wasn’t sensible nor was he all that good because he never called her back. 

Instead, he chose to pretend as though he hadn’t seen the calls or the voicemails or the messages. He told himself he was focusing on clinching a playoff spot. He told himself he was just prioritising the important stuff and, for as long as he had a roof over his head, the other apartment wasn’t a priority. 

Ethan chose not to acknowledge the fact that ignoring and running away from any possible problem was becoming a bit of an odd habit for him over the last few months. 

. 

As it would turn out, people failed to warn Ethan that March Madness seemed to extend into a player’s personal life. 

He couldn’t quite work out the exact moment everything changed but he noticed the switch two weeks into March. And he was fucking baffled. And almost embarrassed that it took him so long to catch on to your sudden cold behaviour.

If you were giving him the cold shoulder, Ethan would have assumed he had done something to piss you off. It wasn’t like you hadn’t done it before, the two of you had your fair share of petty roommate disagreements over the months where one of you would give the other silent treatment. But it never lasted more than an hour or so before you sat down and talked it out. 

Ethan would have preferred if he was just given the silent treatment from you.

Instead, he got…whatever the hell you were doing now. 

For a few days, Ethan considered that he was just being dramatic. That maybe it was something at work or in one of your classes. That eventually you’d come to him with whatever was bothering you and he would listen and this weird tension between the two of you would disappear. 

He lost hope in that theory after a week.

You were talking to him, almost as normal, but there was a tinge to it. A shift. Almost like a step back. It felt like the early months as roommates, when your answers were shorter more often than not, when you treated each other as acquaintances with a mutual friend. 

It felt fucking wrong. 

And then there was the physical aspect. 

It wasn’t like the two of you were on each other at every possible moment together. It wasn’t even about the sex. It was the way you pulled away from him like his touch burned you, like it was odd for him to casually nudge your hip with his own as he walked past you in the kitchen. It was the way you seemed to avoid sitting too close to him on the couch. 

It was the way it felt like the two of you were reverting back to the awkward, polite strangers you were back in September. 

He hated it but he didn’t know how to get it back when you seemed so adamant to keep him at arm’s length. 

It was disorienting as fuck. 

It was wrong. 

It was everything he feared for. 

It was almost-definitely-possibly worse than you rejecting him. 

And Ethan felt like he was fucking spiralling with the realisation that he may have lost you and he wasn’t exactly sure how. 

.

And just when Ethan craved normalcy in his life, Luke started acting weird too. 

The youngest Hughes brother shut down any attempts to hang out outside of practice or training. He didn’t seem as talkative or chatty with Ethan the way he usually was, leaving most of their conversations to surround hockey or strategies or upcoming games.

Fuck, even Seamus was weirded out by Luke’s sudden change in behaviour. 

It didn’t take long for the other boys in the team to notice the growing tension between the two boys. Jack kept shooting his brother weird looks. Nico seemed concerned. Even Curtis looked a bit awkward and unsure at what to say. Him, Luke and Seamus had been such a trio since Ethan joined the Devils at the start of the season. 

Now it seemed like Luke tolerated him at best. 

But Ethan knew Luke. He knew the way the boy would get when he was upset. He knew the way the boy tended to shut down a bit, knew that he needed the space to be moody and brood a little (the outcome of being the youngest child) before he was ready to forgive and forget and move on. 

However, Luke Hughes seemed more than happy to carry out whatever grudge he was holding—even if it was affecting their game on the ice. 

“What the fuck was that?” 

Luke didn’t even bother turning to look at him, reaching to pull his practice jersey over his head. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“For fuck’s sake, Luke,” Ethan growled, angry and frustrated and done with whatever bitchy mood he was still in. “I was open. You saw that I was open and you fucking ignored me. What if we were in a game? What if that cost us a goal?” 

“It’s just a practice,” Luke shot back, deadpan and unamused. “Calm down.” 

“Calm down? Calm down?!” Ethan laughed, bitter and irritated. “This isn’t a fucking joke, Luke. I don’t know what your problem with me is but it’s fucking ridiculous if you’re willing to sacrifice the team for it.” 

Seamus took a step towards them. “Okay, maybe we just need—”

“No,” Ethan snapped, a buzz of adrenaline rushing through him. “No, if he has a problem with me then I want him to fucking say it instead of keeping it some secret like—some coward!” 

“Oh, that’s rich coming from you,” Luke snapped back at him. “You know all about secrets, Edwards.” 

His brows furrowed together. “Stop fucking talking in riddles, Hughes.” 

“Oh Jesus,” Seamus grumbled under his breath. 

“You know exactly what I’m talking about,” Luke hissed. 

“No, I don’t!” Ethan gritted out. “I don’t know what the fuck you’re on about!”

“And I don’t know who the fuck you are anymore!” Luke bit back, enough hurt and anger in his voice that it left Ethan—and the rest of the locker room—silent. “I thought you were one of my closest friends. I thought you were a good guy. Clearly you’ve changed.”

Ethan frowned. “What?”

“Okay, everyone out!” Nico clapped his hands together, snapping Luke and Ethan out of their little moment as the captain began shepherding the rest of the team out. 

“Aw, come on, it was just getting good!” Curtis whined but sighed as he followed the rest of the boys out of the locker room, all in various degrees of undress as they left Ethan and Luke alone. 

Ethan watched them all go before he turned back to Luke, a look of hurt and pure confusion on his face. 

“I helped you out,” Luke rasped, swallowing harshly. His voice was softer, a little raw too. Like the fight had left him and all that was left was disappointment. “You needed a place to stay and I convinced her to let you stay, vouched that you were a good guy, that you weren’t a fucking douche, and you had to go and fucking play her like that.” 

Ethan blinked. “What the fuck are you on about?” 

“Ethan,” Luke muttered, his name full of frustration. “I know about the two of you. I’ve known for a while, I’m not fucking stupid.” 

His heart sped up a little, despite himself. “What does our…agreement have to do with you?” 

Luke shot him a look of disbelief. “Because she’s my friend! Because you’ve strung her along for months and now you don’t even have the decency to tell her you’re leaving!” 

Ethan blinked again. “I—what?” 

“You’re moving back to your own place and you—why do you look so confused?” 

“Because I am confused!” Ethan squeaked out. 

Luke slowly blinked. “So…you’re not taking Patricia up on her offer and moving out?”

“No!” Ethan replied, still looking confused. “Why would you think I am?” 

“Because she keeps calling and emailing you!” Luke shot back.

“And I haven’t answered a single one!” Ethan retorted. 

“Huh,” Luke murmured, his mind whirling with a million different thoughts. “Well, her emails suggest otherwise.” 

Ethan tilted his head. “What do you mean?” 

“I—” Luke sighed, looking serious once again. “I need you to be honest with me.” 

Ethan shifted in his spot. “What?”

“Are you serious about her?” Luke questioned. 

Ethan frowned. “Who? Patricia?” 

“I—no,” Luke sighed deeply. “Unless you’ve been sleeping with Patricia this whole time—”

“What? No, no!” Ethan spluttered out. “I have—wait, does she think I’m moving out?” 

Luke looked a bit sheepish. “I think you need to go have that conversation with her.” 

“Fuck,” Ethan breathed out, something quite like nausea twisting in his stomach. “And she….I’m not….I would never play her like that. It’s literally the opposite!” 

Luke raised his brow. “The opposite?” 

“I—fuck, I need to go,” Ethan muttered to himself under his breath, not even acknowledging the other boy as he began to yank his gear off. 

“Woah, Ethan, you need to—”

“I need to fix this,” Ethan interrupted. “She can’t—I need to tell her.” 

The last thing Luke—or any of the boys—saw was Ethan rushing out of the locker room, looking frazzled and flustered and panicked. 

.

Ethan wished he could say he was calm and collected when he finally made it to your shared apartment but that would be a fucking lie. 

He was a mess when he arrived. Despite driving back, he was still breathless and panting as he forgoed the elevator, choosing to take the stairs two-at-a-time until he reached your floor. His hair was a mess, his cheeks were flushed, his keys were the only thing in his possession as he raced towards the door. He wasn’t even sure where his phone was. Nor did he care. 

His only goal was to get to you.

It was embarrassing how badly his hands were shaking as he tried to shove the key into the lock, taking more attempts than he cared to admit before he managed to open the door. He didn’t even care about your neighbours as he began calling out your name, praying to every god he could think of that you were home.

He could have collapsed from relief when you wandered out of your room, a mixed look of concern and confusion on your face when you spotted him standing in the living room.

“Are you okay?” 

Ethan tried to find the words to answer you. He tried to wrack his brain for a response to your question, a coherent sentence to calm the clear uneasiness in your voice. And yet, all he could do was stare at you and think one single thought that was leaving his lips before he could even stop himself.

“I’m in love with you!” 

You blinked in response. 

“Like, so painfully in love with you that I didn’t think it was possible to feel this way about someone. But it is. And I do. And I can’t keep it to myself anymore because I think I am genuinely going insane,” Ethan continued. 

Your lips parted a little in surprise, but still no words left your mouth.

“And I should probably stop talking and embarrassing myself further because you’re not saying anything and I’m usually a lot better at these kinds of things,” Ethan blurted out. “But you’ve been pulling away the last few weeks and I can’t take it anymore because it’s killing me. It’s killing me that I have to keep pretending I’m fine with everything when I’m not.” 

His body was moving before he could stop himself. He was taking steps forward, closing the small distance between you two because Ethan couldn’t stop the pull you had on him—on his body, his mind, his whole fucking world. 

“I’m in love with you. Like in a ‘I wanna come home to you every night and kiss you because we are dating’ kind of way, not a ‘we are roommates who made up this weird agreement’ way.” Ethan breathed out, his voice just above a whisper but you heard him loud and clear. “And I don’t expect you to say you feel the same way but I can’t keep it anymore and—”

He was cut off by you throwing yourself at him, arms winding around his neck and lips on his. He didn’t even care about the rest of his sentence, sinking into the kiss like a starved man eating for the first time. The relief of feeling your body pressed against his was almost as addicting as the adrenaline pumping through his veins when you let out a blissful sigh. 

“M’not moving out,” he managed to mutter out between kisses as he wrapped his arms around your waist, keeping you tight against him. “Whatever you think—” 

You pulled away a few inches, just enough to see his face. “Your laptop was open,” you murmured, something sheepish and guilty written across your face. “And the email came through from your estate agent about signing a new lease and I got in my own head about it. I thought you were going to leave and I wanted to protect myself from falling further and—”

“Falling further?” He repeated, a hopeful smile beginning to take over his face.

“Yeah,” you whispered, your smile mirroring his. “Turns out sleeping with your roommate is a real catalyst for falling in love with him.” 

“Lucky me,” Ethan murmured before leaning back in to kiss you. “And I’m not leaving until you want me to leave.” 

“We’ve really gone through this relationship thing in a weird order, huh?” You mused, laughing a little when Ethan kept leaning in to kiss you.

“Yeah but I think it’s worked out pretty well for us,” he murmured, his nose playfully nudging yours. 

Ethan Edwards thought he was prepared for his rookie year. 

He wasn’t. Not in the slightest. Nobody ever was, not really. He wasn’t fully prepared to fall in love either.

But with you in his arms and the Devils only points away from clinching a playoff spot, he thought his rookie year was going far better than anything he could have prepared for. 

.

[luvz-me]

being at the last year of your sports medicine university course abroad in america was like a dream come true. but in all honesty you just wanted it to be over and quick. the prospect of having to intern at a random clinic for three months wasn't appealing at all. you made sure to send your cv to different physiotherapy clinics, gyms, sports clubs but still no answer.

watching all your colleagues start earlier than you was discouraging until one afternoon, after watching 2 boring movies a guy at a club told you to watch last night you got a call.

someone with a very poised voice starts talking almost immediately, "good afternoon, i'm speaking on behalf of the sports clinic and i was wondering if you'd be available for an interview tomorrow morning regarding your internship application?"

you almost envied the way there wasn't any hint of nervousness in their voice. it was almost immediate the way you accepted the offer, in all honesty you just wanted to get it over with.

you started your internship there after almost a week until one day, by the evening you witnessed something you never thought you would. tashi fucking duncan walking in the clinic right as you were about to leave. you felt your stomach turn, not in the bad way, but in the - what the fuck, did i hit my head somewhere and wake up in an alternate universe? - way. your anxiety making you want to throw up seeing one of the people you wrote countless essays about stand before you.

"i'm looking to book a sports physician. medium term for art donaldson, need them to be able to come in-house monday through friday." you heard her say to the receptionist, blunt yet always polite. one of your idols standing just a few meters away from you made you weak at the knees. you were aware the clinic was well frequented but you never thought she'd be in your sight ever.

you looked at your nails, pondering if you should start biting them, regaining a bad habit just because you found yourself in a situation you couldn't control sounds very much like you but tashi probably would think that's gross so you stop.

a client you had been assigned to arrives and you curse yourself out for not being able to keep listening to the conversation anymore. the day never ended. each glance you took at the clock just seemed like you were stopped in time. sighing while helping the elder woman stretch her upper body and muttering some words of praise, explaining to her that she'd have to keep coming for at least one more week so the pain could dissipate. you flashed her a smile as she got up and said goodbye, thanking you endlessly for helping her ease the pain.

your supervisor had been watching you. giving some criticism on this session with the client. as you were about to leave she pulled you aside and informed you that starting tomorrow you'd be going to tashi duncans house.

everything inside was pristine, you were even scared to even lean against the furniture in fear you'd somehow break it. tashi had given you a quick house tour, her heels clacking on the hardwood floors as she warmed you up to her, occasionally telling jokes about herself and saying you reminded her of herself. when she was in college. you didn't really know what that meant but you decided to take it as a compliment, nervously fidgeting your fingers. art was nowhere to be seen up until you reached the gym area.

standing there, broad shoulders scrolling through his phone, distracted and flashing a smile towards his wife once she clears her throat and wraps an arm around his shoulder. introducing you to each other and leaving promptly, saying she had a meeting with her pr team and that she'd be back at 8 pm.

you swallow dry. standing there awkwardly with your backpack on your shoulders.

"so.. umm were gonna start with wall angels maybe. tashi told me thats your problem area right now" you blurted out, trying to sound as professional as possible "just. place your arms against the wall in a 90 degree angle and slowly straighten them"

art follows suit, standing against the wall awkwardly moving his arms up and down before asking "how old are you?" breaking the silence

"i'm 21" you mutter in surprise analysing his form and his toned shoulders, and arms.. and muscles. eyes narrowing trying to remind yourself that this is not one of your hookups, this is art fucking donaldson and you're here for an internship. at his house. in his fancy home gym. hes not yours to admire. "why?"

"ah.. just wanted to know" art shrugs, looking at you intently. he gets up suddenly, yet his movements are deliberate. you feel the knot tighten in your stomach, your pulse quicken as i looked at the man before me. "can you show me how to do it properly?" his voice drops to a lower tone and all you can do for a few seconds is flutter your lashes at him

"but this is pretty easy already, i don't know how to ex-"

"i said, i want you to show me" art cuts you off, his gaze literally burning through your skull

art mirrors your movements, his eyes never leaving yours. you hope he doesn't notice the slight tremble in your hands.

"like this?" he asks, his voice even softer now, almost a whisper.

you nod, your breath hitching. "yes, just like that. make sure to keep your back flat against the wall."

he follows your instructions, his body inching closer. you can feel the heat emanating from him, a stark contrast to the cool, clinical setting of the gym. there's a tension in the air, a charged silence that makes your heart race.

"you're good at this," he murmurs, his eyes darkening with an emotion you can't quite place

your cheeks flush, the compliment catching you off guard. "i appreciate that, mr. donaldson."

he moves closer, his body now just inches from yours. you can feel the magnetism between you, a pull that's impossible to ignore. his hand reaches out, gently brushing a strand of hair behind your ear. the gesture is tender, almost too intimate for your professional setting. "it's art, yeah? call me art, i don't want to feel like an old fart" he grins

"i should… i should check your shoulder alignment," you stammer, trying to regain some semblance of professionalism. "you're a bit tight here," you say, your voice trembling slightly. "let me help you."

you guide him through a series of stretches, your hands lingering a bit longer than necessary on his shoulders, his back. the room feels smaller, the air thicker with each passing moment.

the session was over. finally. you gathered your things and slid your backpack over your shoulders. art's gaze is still on you and it's impossible not to feel it "are you in a hurry to leave?"

"umm, no i just. no im not in a hurry" you smile "just don't want to bother you anymore" your breath catches in your throat

"i was hoping we could talk a bit more. get to know each other better." he smirks. what the fuck "tashi told me some things about you but i think one on one conversation is far better" grabbing your hand and guiding you to a small resting area at the gym engaging in some superficial conversation about you while tracing circles in the back of your hand. you can't help but sigh. his hands becoming more and more pervasive, touching your thighs, reaching up up up until he's close to your crotch. a slight whine escapes your mouth. you're not focusing on the conversation at all.

"art, this is not-"

"tashi doesn't have to know" he replies knowing tashi knows damn well. hell, she even planned this for him. it wasn't her intention to scout a pretty little physiotherapist like you at first. but you were at the right place, at the right time. the moment she took a glance at you she knew she had to have you. it was a plus art needed help with his shoulders. his hands roaming on the waistband of your tight leggings, your mouth parting with a sigh. sigh that he takes as opportunity to crash his lips against yours. your eyes narrow at first and for a second you try to pull back but you don't really want to.

his fingers edging closer to your panties, the tightness of the leggings increasing the skin on skin contact. "aw you look so pretty with your lips parted. you wanna take my fingers in you don't you huh?" now hovering over you, caressing you over your top "fucking corrupt that little head of yours"

you can't help but let out a moan that sends him over the edge. sliding your leggings down caressing you over your panties. before pushing two fingers inside your mouth for you to suck. "you want this don't you baby?"

"mhm" you nod trying your hardest not to bite him when he uses his opposite hand to caress your sensitive nub. furrowing your eyebrows trying your hardest not to grab his arm. his calloused fingers leaving your plump mouth suddenly and making a 'pop' sound "but tashi might" cut off by the pads of his fingers circling your clit

"tashi doesn't mind" his voice hungry "im just helping you out yeah? we're just getting acquainted" one of his fingers teases your entrance slowly entering earning a sharp wince from you. the unfamiliar feeling slowly turning into pleasure as he slid it in and out "open your eyes f'me, let me see those pretty eyes"

you bite your lip staring at his face as he does such a lewd thing to you, and you let him. knowing he has a wife. somehow this made it even more arousing. whats wrong with you? "gonna add one more finger, fuck you're so tight around me, so good. i bet that clit would feel so good around my tongue" small tears cornering around your eyes. the soft noises leaving your lips only encouraging him to keep going.

"feels good huh baby?" he coos, his face edging closer and closer to your clit as your hips rise, only to stop once you're about to cum. abruptly sliding your panties back up along with your leggings.

this earns him a well deserved mewl. edging you like this. stopping when you were just so so close was just so mean of him. looking up at him just to see him lick your juices off his fingers, feeding them to you. "suck" he commands "don't be mad, i just need to make sure you come back for more sessions" fixing your hair and picking up your backpack from where you left it on the gym floor

[beensbaee]

𝒏𝒆𝒕𝒆𝒚𝒂𝒎 𝒔𝒖𝒍𝒍𝒚 𝒊𝒎𝒂𝒈𝒊𝒏𝒆 ˚ ༘♡ ·˚ ₊˚ˑ༄ؘ

summary; neteyam visits his favorite healer after a hard battle

word count; 2.2k

BLOODIED, BUT BEAUTIFUL.

‧͙⁺˚*･༓☾

Neteyam staggered into the healers tent, gritting his teeth together as an attempt to keep himself from hissing due to the pain that was coursing through his entire body 

Y/n was speaking to one of her fellow healers, oblivious to Neteyam standing behind her in dire need of her tender hands

He waited patiently, leaning against the entrance of the tent as he took slow breaths to keep himself from passing out as Y/n let out a laugh at whatever the woman she was speaking with said

Finally - she turned around. Her face content until she saw Neteyam - her cry of surprise had him wincing as she rushed over to him, grabbing his arms immediately and leading him to a cot he could lay down on

"Neteyam - you skxawng! Why didn't you try getting my attention earlier! Oh Eywa look at these wounds!" She said mortified, eyes quickly assessing Neteyam's injuries as he managed a smile

"Hello to you too, Y/n. I like your hair today." He said, barely having the strength to lower himself onto the cot in front of him as Y/n sighed

"Thank you." She said angrily, eyes stressed as she quickly reached for her disinfecting ointments with urgent need

He grunted as he laid down in front of her - the injuries over his body were burning and painful - but the familiar smell of the soothing medicines surrounding him and Y/n's scent allowed his body to relax as he tipped his head back and closed his eyes against the cushion laid for patients to rest their head against when being healed

"Teyam, what happened?" She said quietly, looking over his injuries one last time with a sad frown before dipping her hands into the ointment in front of her as her hands lathered it gently into his skin

He sighed, eyes opening as he watched her work with knitted brows. She was looking at him expectedly as she continued applying the green paste onto his skin

"Bad day for the war party." Was what he finally settled on as he let a wince of pain slip through - Y/n's hands quickly stopping at his rare show of suffering as she looked towards him with a knowing look

"Neteyam. I hate seeing you so hurt." She finally whispered, her voice pained as he finally met her gaze - his eyes crinkled with an ache she wished to sooth.

He stayed silent for a few moments, letting her words settle as he slowly moved his hand towards hers. Seeing he was trying to hold her hand, she quickly moved forward and clasped his hands herself so he wouldn't try to move anymore and risk aggravating his wounds any further

"I know. I am sorry." He said quietly as Y/n let out a huff

"How dare you apologize to me! Take it back! You are hurt, Neteyam. Don't you ever try to say sorry to me again when you are the one to deserve it so much more." She said, her tone truly hurt by his words as both of her hands cupped his gently. He ran his fingers over her knuckles as he let out a breathless laugh

"Ok, ok. Sorry -" He started, but was cut off with her letting out a hiss at his use of the word sorry once again

Finally, he let out a laugh that bubbled all the way from his tummy at her reaction as she let a small smile find its way onto her face

"Now, let your body relax. Think of something peaceful to help you. Deep breaths, Neteyam. Understand?" She asked as he nodded his head, closing his eyes as his mind trailed to a certain someone

It was not hard to have her be the sole thing on his mind as she worked diligently - her scent consuming his senses along with her occasional humming as she worked easily eased the tension from his muscles.

He didn't know when he'd fallen asleep - but her gentle hands cradled his face as she whispered his name

"Neteyam, come on yawne."

He didn't open his eyes when he first heard the words - believing he was just dreaming until he felt her soft fingers trace over his eyelids and nose

With lashes fluttering open, he was met with her concerned eyes as she helped him sit up

He let out a groan as he adjusted, but relaxed quickly as he felt the previous pain from his injuries almost gone. Looking down, his abdomen and arms were wrapped lovingly with her signature style - the cloth warm against his skin as he sighed.

"Thank you. I am sorry - was I sleeping for too long?" He asked sleepily, eyes taking in the now empty healers tent and dark sky that loomed outside

"Yes. I did not want to wake you. Did you sleep well?" She asked gently, helping him stand as he held onto her arm for support - eyes blinking away his tiredness as he slowly nodded his head

"I think that was the best sleep I have had in a very long time." He answered, his hands moving from her arms and around her as he enveloped Y/n in a hug, resting his head against hers as she smiled against his skin

"Well, thank Eywa I didn't let anyone wake you." She laughed quietly as he pressed a gentle kiss to the side of her head

"Thank you." He said quieter now as Y/n's cheeks quickly tinted with surprise while she blinked, stunned and trying to process what he had just done

Seeing her surprise, he displayed a lazy smile as her ears perked up

"You're welcome. You know, I'd do anything for you." She said softly as he nodded his head

"And I'd do anything for you, Y/n. But you already knew this." He said as she finally rolled her eyes, her sweet smile peeking through as Neteyam grinned at the sight of it

"Tonight, I walk you home." She said, her voice gentle but firm as Neteyam shook his head

"But-" He started, but she gave him a look that had him quieting in a instant as she smiled

"Come on, now. You are in no condition to walk to even your own quarters, let alone mine. Let's go." She reasoned, her hand moving to his palm as she led him out of the tent and towards the familiar path of his families sleeping area

They walked through the resting na'vi silently, Neteyam's hand never leaving hers as the sounds of Pandora's distant night animals filled the silence

She stopped a few meters away from his families quarters, respecting the fact that they were sleeping inside and not wanting to intrude any further as she turned to Neteyam

He looked beautiful in the moonlight. His freckles glowed in the dim light, and she could see the tenderness in his eyes as he looked at her.

"Now, you are going to go inside, and go back to sleep. No doing anything else, your injuries need rest." She instructed, his eyes never leaving hers as he listened - nodding his head along to whatever she said

"You see, the wounds you acquired from today were all over your body. To be able to make a full recovery - Neteyam! Are you even listening to a word that I am - " 

But she was cut off by him leaning towards her and pressing his soft lips against hers, his head tilting downwards as she was pressed flush against him - his palms holding her face so lovingly as any sound of surprised that left her lips was silenced by his mouth

Blinking away her shock, she leaned in to him as his arms came up and around her - holding her against him so lovingly that she couldn't stop herself from closing her eyes and deepening the passionate kiss

Finally, she broke away from him - lips pink and cheeks alight as she blinked rapidly - her mouth was parted as she struggled to even form a single word. He laughed - a real laugh that had a slow smile creeping onto her face as she tried to look away from him and hide the growing blush she could feel creeping up her neck

But his hands grabbed her face and turned her towards him - his eyes so happy that she couldn't even make herself look away as he began speaking

"How are you going to leave after this? And you know I will not sleep soundly if I do not know you returned back to your bed safely." He whispered as she looked at him silently - eyes round with love as he smiled

"You said it yourself. I am in no condition to walk you to your quarters and back - and I cannot sleep without knowing you are safe - which is something I need to do, according to you, so my wounds heal." He added, a playful glint in his magnificent eyes

"Are you suggesting I stay with you tonight?" She questioned, and his grin broadened as he nodded

"It is nothing shameful. I am making sure my dearest friend is safe with me." He added, his fangs peaking through that same incomparable smile she was so infatuated with as she shook her head, trying to contain her giggles as he reached for her hand

"Come on. You can lay in my hammock, and I can sleep on the ground." He said, mumbling the last words quietly and hoping she wouldn't hear - but unfortunately, the gasp she let out as her eyes snapped towards his let him know she'd heard him perfectly fine

"You sleep on the ground? That better not have been what you said." She exclaimed, brows pulled together and concerned as he rolled his eyes and laughed whilst leading her into his families sleeping quarters

She entered hesitantly, Neteyam turning back to look at her with an encouraging nod of his head as she observed the peacefully sleeping Sully's. They moved quietly to ensure no one was awakened.

He moved to lay in his hammock - which was thankfully large enough for both of them to comfortably lay on as he moved over and outstretched his arm towards her

She laid down, tucking her hands under her face as she laid on her side to look at him. He whispered how pretty she looked and she smiled - swatting his hand away and telling him once again how important sleep was for him as he sighed contently - arms wrapping around her as Y/n rested her head against his chest gently

They'd never been this intimate before - but she loved how natural it felt as their friendship had always been one consisting of them being close to each other. 

She said she'd wake up before the sun was up to walk back to her tent, and Neteyam said he'd walk her there in the early hours of the nearing morning.

Normally she would've awakened in time - but she'd spent the night whispering and giggling with the boy who laid beside her. He was no better, laughing so much that the girl would have to press her palm against his mouth to quiet him. They must have fallen asleep hours later - enveloped in each other's warmth.

‧͙⁺˚*･༓☾

Jake stumbled as Lo'ak tugged him along, bouncing like a maniac with one of the widest smiles ever plastered on his face. Neytiri trailed behind the two, fuming at Lo'ak for waking them up - the boy had even been pulling on their hair to get them out of bed and insisting they had to come and see what he had to show them that second

"Lo'ak, boy this better be good or else you are in big tr-" Jake grumbled, but his own voice trailed off as Lo'ak stopped in front of his big brothers hammock 

"Look, guys." He snickers, poking Neteyam's cheek, who laid sleeping - a young girl tucked under his arm as the two slept soundly.

Jake's mouth only hung open as Neytiri stepped forward, carefully examining the two before letting out a pleased gasp once she recognized the girl

"What is Y/n doing here?" Neytiri asked, a smile on her face as she watched her son hold the girl close to him

Jake blinked, shaking his head before answering

"I came to the healer tent to get Neteyam - she shooed me away, said he was sleeping. She was gonna bring him to bed too, I guess she fell asleep here." He said, brows furrowed - confused but happy as he saw how peaceful Neteyam looked as he slept.

Lo'ak looked from his mother to his father, back in forth in disbelief as his mouth hung open

"Are you telling me he is not in trouble?!" He practically shreiked as Neytiri yelped, slapping the back of his neck and telling him to hush

But the two teens stirred, eyes peeking open as Y/n quickly sat up - her eyes adjusting to who stood in front of her before they widened - completely horrified

Neteyam lazily sat up beside her, a sleepy smile on his face as Y/n covered her mouth - shaking her head and muttering someone kill me as Neteyam looked towards his parents and brother

"Good morning." Were the words he'd said, stretching his arms as Y/n bowed her head and covered her face, mortified. Jake and Neytiri's laughter filled the air only moments later.

[cornyforjk]

Your quite treason | JJK

ᥫ᭡pairing: married exbsf!jungkook x female reader 

ᥫ᭡genre: ex best friends, forbidden love , angst rating: 16+

ᥫ᭡warnings: drug and alcohol usage, mentions of cheating, swearing, depressed, obsession, crying and all that stupid stuff.

ᥫ᭡word count: around 20K (ik it's too much but i couldn't control my feelings 😩)

ᥫ᭡summary: Your love for Jeon Jungkook was ruining your life.

ᥫ᭡inspiration: Fortnight by The Motherr Taylor Swift (ft.Post Malone)

ᥫ᭡listen to: Fortnight by The Motherr Taylor Swift (ft.Post Malone), happier by Olivia Rodrigo

ᥫ᭡Author's note: AHHHH, okay, woof. This is the first ever fanfic I'll post, tho I've written many but never posted. Please bare if there's any grammatical mistake and if my writing feels too much.

Show some love and your suggestions are welcome in the comment section 😗

____________________________________

Hello Mrs. Park, how have you been?" You turn around to find Minji, speaking to you while watering the flowers of her front garden.

Minji, Jeon Minji. She always made you feel like the worst person, tho she never meant it. In fact,she's the sweetest and the kindest person you've ever known. And that's why, she's in the position you've always dreamed to be in. That's why she has the man you've always dreamt of.

And the fact, you can never be her nor in her position, makes you feel like the worst person on this earth.

"Hello, Mrs. Jeon, I've been doing just fine. How about you? " Tho your tongue burnt on the feeling of reffering her by the title,you still held up a smile. A smile behind which no one could see the pain. "I'm great, actually! But you, Mrs. Park, you look unwell." You sensed the concern to be genuine and you hated that. "Oh yeah, just tired from work. Yk it's too much these days." You replied, not wanting her to noticing anything wrong with you. "Ah, I understand. Work can get stressful, but I'm sure everything will get tell well soon." She smiles at you, and you see another reason why she's deserves the title more.

You smile back at her and thank her before leaving towards your house, your insides burning with the urge to kill her right then.

"There's a new couple shifting in the house behind ours" Jaehyun, your husband says while he's eating his breakfast. "Oh, in the Jung's? Didn't think they'll actually sell it" You reply, as you pack your lunch, not really caring for the fact. You forgot about it and the new info never crossed your mind once in the day.

It was when the bell rang and you opened the door only to face the new neighbors. Him, Oh god, It's him. Your excitement died the next second when you saw a very pretty women standing right beside him, her arm wrapped around his. "Oh-Oh hey Y/N. I totally didn't expect you! " His face evident with surprise. "You know her, babe?" The woman asked him. "Yeah, hun. She's a college friend. " That's when you felt your heart clench tightly.

Jeon Jungkook, the guy who you've been loving since your collage days even when you got married. The guy you thought of every night before you slept, the guy you thought about when woke up in the morning, the guy you thought about everytime when you ate icecream. Jeon Jungkook, was your friend who you trusted with your life. But now, he was just a stranger you know everything about. (Stranger by the loml Olivia Rodrigo, but the oc isn't over kookie😩)

"H-Hi. How are you J-Jungkook." You couldn't believe it. You've cried so many nights for him. Praying to get back in his arms, have him in your life as anyone, if not a lover. But now that he comes back, he's married. And very happily, you can see.

"I'm doing very well, Y/N. This is Jeon Minji, my wife. We have just shifted in the house right behind your backyard. So nice to see you again." You could feel your eyes pinch with pain, but you tried your best to pull up a bright smile. You can do this, you're very good at hiding feelings. Come on Y/N. "

I'm so happy to see you too. And hello Minji, nice to meet you. Well come in you both. " You move aside for them to come in but the refuse by saying, " It's fine, Y/N. We were just her to Introduce, but guess we don't need to do that. " Minji chuckles and continues, "But we'll see you soon. Have a good night. " She smiles at you, and you feel your legs tickling with jealousy. "You too have a good night, and please don't hesitate if you need any help in shifting. Both me and my husband are willing to help."

You fail to notice Jungkook stiffen as he's reminded that you're married too. He doesn't know why but he's always been uneasy with you being in a relationship and he has no idea why.

Both of them agree and leave after a short goodbye. You shut the door and you suddenly feel all the strength leaving your body. You collapse against the main door, still not believing everything that happened. All the memories that you were burying, we're now out of your control . You could hear his voice, feel his touch and his warmth. Tears made their way out of your eyes as you cry silently.

You unlock the main door to your house as you get inside. It's been so long since they've moved but you can't get yourself to move on. You reach the kitchen to grab a can of bear in an attempt to calm yourself down. But nothing seems to work, every drink or drug, leaves only a temporary effect. You continue loving jungkook even when you're high. You decide to take a cold shower when you hear the main door open again, only to see your shitty husband entering.

Jaehyun, both as a husband and a person, might be the worst guy you've ever met. You don't understand how he's able to lie on your face so smoothly. If you had control, you would have never married him. But fate and your parents had a different plan for you.

Around 2 months ago, your friend Sarah sent you a picture of Jaehyun with a girl sitting on his lap, and they were heavily making out. You didn't feel any pain in your heart but only shame, it felt like he had stepped hard on your dignity, your self respect. He made you feel like the most undeserving person, and he definitely did that intentionaly.

Ever since then, you've never started and conversation with him, disgusted to even look at him. And you guess, it makes it easier for him to leave the house whenever and stay at the girl's place. But you don't bring yourself to care, your mind always drift to jungkook and his very happy married life.

They're living their best lives, the typical rom-com like love life. Jungkook never leaves without a kiss with his wife. And Minji is always ready to welcome him by door when it's time for him to return.

When you had the same time routine, you always witnessed them being the happiest around each other and you had to change your timings. You couldn't bare seeing them being all lovey-dovey, so you leave for work earlier and arrive back home later.

"Y/N? " You were too drunk to hear him calling you. He called you out a few times before his hands reach your right arm to turn you around. "What the fuck!" You slurred, your drunkenness now evident to jungkook. "What are you doing here Y/N?? " He asks you with a strict voice, which soon melts when he sees you pout. "Kook, oh it's you thank god. I thought It was some guy again. " You said slowly as you moved closer to him. You were too drunk and high to remember the argument you had earlier. "Let's get you home Y/N. Don't you have morning classes tomorrow,hm? " He speaks very softly, as is talking to a kid. You mover your side to side, disagreeing with him and then you say, "Noo, let's have another drink and dance. I missed youuu" You wrap your arms around his neck, as your pouts grows even more. He chuckles while holding your waist just as tightly as you're holding him.

He agrees with you and empties the red cup you were having rum and coke in. Both of you weren't a fan of frat parties but whenever you're both together, everything feels the best. Jungkook's breathe fans over your neck as you both dance along On the floor by JLo.

When the chorus of the song starts you along with most of the other girls turn around to twerk along, as if it's a mandatory ritual. Jungkook's cheeks and ears turn bright pink as your ass grazed his crotch a few times while dancing and he wishes you don't notice. You turn back around to hold him again because when you weren't, you felt a certain type of coldness even when you're in bw so many people. His warmth was something which can get you just as high as a joint.

Both of you melted in each other's arms and stayed that way for so long, you didn't even know what song was playing now. "Mhmm, kookie can i kiss you? Just once I promise. " Jungkook wanted it, he wanted you to kiss him forever but he knew it's not safe for your friendship. He can't let his feelings over take him because he knows you only see him as a friend (who you might kiss sometimes 🤭) but how can he say no to you, especially when you're being so cute and adorable. So he decides to fuck it and bend down to kiss you. He captures your lips in a kiss as you both make out in the middle of the crowd. Jungkook felt like the luckiest person ever to have you like this. He has always been so happy that you're open to him with your feelings and uhm.

And you felt similar, just as euphoric and wanted this moment to last forever. Oh, how you wish to have him in all the ways possible. Even pray for it at every 11:11 you notice. And everything feels so good with him around. You were so in love with him but you knew he wasn't.

He has always been the best friend, the bestest you could ask for. But best friends can never be together, thec can never have feelings for each other because it always results in heartbreaks.

And so it did, both of yours heart broke quite terribly. When jungkook had to leave for USA after he got a job placement but he told you about it just 2 days before. Out of anger, you didn't talk to him neither did you come to see him off at the airport. Both of you were hurt, and you both had your reasons.

Next morning when you were returning from a morning run, you ran into Jungkook by the mail box. "Good Morning, Y/N" He wishes you and you just wanted to jump in his arms. "Oh, Good Morning to you too Jungkook! " You wished him back trying to match his level of energy. "How have you been? " You ask him further.

"I've been great, what about you? "

"I'm doing well too. " You reply, knowing you always feel well around him. "Good to hear that. The weather has been terrible these days" He says, trying to start a conversation.

"Yeah, ikr. It's so hot these days,even when it's just February." You both continue talking about random things when he invites you and Jaehyun over for dinner.

"Thank you for the invite, but i don't think Jaehyun will be able to make it, he comes back late these days. " You say and Jungkook could sense your hesitation on the topic of your husband. And ofc, him being the kindest human being , he asked, "oh, btw, is everything fine between you both? Minji mentioned you being very stressed these days. You know you can always reach out. " with concern evident in his eyes.

It became difficult to maintain an eye contact because you both know how terrible you're at lying to him. "W-well, yeah everything is fine between us" You say, your eyes roaming everywhere but jungkook. He knows that's not the truth so he persuades, "Y/N, yk you can't lie to me so tell me what's up? " When you finally meet his eyes, you feel like crying.

He thinks your misery is because of your husband but who's gonna tell him that he's the reason. He's why you're suffering, he's why you're depressed and he's the reason of your misery. You give him a little smile, and when you're about to continue, you get a phone call from your husband. "Uhh, I'll have to take this up. " You tell him and he says, "okay Y/N, I'll get going but please ask for any help that you need, hm? " With that you both smile at each other and leave.

"What? " You ask Jaehyun. "You're not at home? Where are you? " You turn around and see him at the main door. You scoff realising that he's coming back from that girl's place and you want to kill him right there.

It had been a week since you met him and now you were walking towards their house around 10pm. Your dad had been calling since morning but you couldn't answer his once . Though you're high as fuck but you can't find your phone, and that's why you're going to jungkook's place to ask for any of theirs phone.

You ring the bell and wait there for a few seconds. The gate opens and you're met with a just out of shower Jungkook. Your breathe hitches and you feel your cheeks burning. He's just as hot. "Umm, hi Y/N.all good? " He speaks, breaking your trance.

"Oh hellooo" You give him a 90° bow which startles him "I'm good how are youu? " Your words trail of as your brain suddenly feels numb. "Wait- are you drunk? " He recognises your drunken voice but you deny him by saying,

"Noooo. I'm not drunkk I'm Highh hehe" You start giggling and it confuses hi even more "I'm sorry to disturb you at this hour, but i need your phone." You pout, and jungkook feels like he's floating. He knows how it is, but your pout still softens him. "Come inside, it's cold. "

"Your wife isn't at home? " You ask him to which he replies, "no she's out with her friends for drinks."

"Oh cool"

You get inside his house and are amazed how pretty they've made it. This place screams jungkook and it feels so much like home. "So what brings you here? " He asks, crossing his arms over his chest.

"Ohh yeahh my phone was calling and I need to call him back but i can't find my dad" You pout again. This time he chuckles, laughing at your words.

"You can't find your dad?" His lips pulling into his iconic bunny smile.

"Yeahh, I can't find my dad. Can you give me your dad so i can call my dad, pleaseeee"

"Here you go, here's my dad" If you both were still young , he would've have teased you a lot. But you both have grown up and even though he wanted to, he couldn't.

"Thank you so muchhhh" You busy yourself dialing your no. when he asked you, "where's your husband tho? "

You were trying so hard to dial your no. correct, that you didn't realize when you said, "he's probably at his girlfriend's. "

"What"

"Holy fuck"

"Shit shit, you didn't hear anything" Your eyes widen with horror and you scolded yourself internally. "Wait fr? Jaehyun's cheating on you? And you know that?? " His eye balls almost out of the sockets, shock evident in his voice.

"Uhh, no no, Yk I'm-im drunk, don't mind that" You tried to play it off but jungkook wouldn't even budge. "Y/N, ik you're telling the truth, you don't have to lie to me. " His eyes full of concern and once again you feel your brain going numb. And you were starting to feel sober, which was even worse.

"Uhmm, I'll have to take your phone over so i can listen to my phone ring. " You ran quickly in an attempt to save yourself from further embarrassment.

Later in your room, you find your phone in your bathroom floor (you have no idea why) And now you have to return jungkook's phone back to him.

You gather so courage and reach his house. You plan on giving it to him and leaving right after thanking him.

And you did so, but after you turned around to leave, he held you arm in an attempt to turn you back. "Y/N, please talk to me. How long have you known this? " You see genuine concern in his eyes and feek like hugging him and crying on his chest.

"Uhh, just let it be jungkook."

"No, tell me. " His voice stern now.

"Why do you even care. It's nine of your business"

"But i just can't see you get hurt. " His voice soft again.

You looked in his eyes, and scoffed. "You can't se me hurt? Of all the hurt I've ever experienced, you have been one reason every fucking time. And you can't see me hurt? Wow"

Jungkook's face falls,but that doesn't stop you. "You fucking hurt me more than anyone does. I don't even care jaehyun's cheating one. It doesn't hurt me. But you do. You hurt me so much that i can't even feel any other pain. " Your voice now louder. Your eyes pinch with pain, tears threatening to fall. But no, you can't do this, not in front of him at least.

"How do i hurt you? " His voice low like a whisper. "Good question Jungkook. You wanna know how you hurt me? How don't wanna know since when you've been hurting me? "

"Y/N you're still mad at what happened almost 10 years ago? " A frown appears on his face and his tone makes you feel as if you're at fault.

"I wouldn't have been if it didn't affect me so much. And why do expect me to not? You told me fucking 2 days before you were leaving for Florida? You never called while you were there. You were living your life and here I was dying. I was suffering." Years finally rolled down your cheeks. And jungkook wanted to wile them down and hug you to make you feel better.

But he was feeling the similar frustration you were feeling. And it became evident when he said, " You weren't the only one Y/N! I was also hurt. You didn't even come to see me off at the airport even when I texted-begged you over text. I wanted to apologize you that day and tell you something important. But you decided to be egoistic and didn't come. And that's why I never called. Even when I was in utter need of help and support, I couldn't call you. Because I lost the level of trust and I knew you won't even pick up. "

His word felt like slap. He's right, you were being a bitch when you didn't meet of on the last day, but you were mad too. "I would have, I was missing you so much, I would have definitely. I would have caught the first flight to Florida only to be with you again." Your words were now slurred due to your crying, when you finally broke and jungkook felt like crying too.

"I know it's wrong, it's so so so wrong but I can't help myself. I can't control myself" You covered your face as you cried even harder. And when you felt his arms engulfing you, you couldn't hepl but wrap your arms around him too. Jungkook stands there caressing your back while he himself cries silently.

"It's so wrong I still can't move on-" Jungkook's heart picks up speed. He's not ready for this. You suddenly pulll away from him and wipe your tears. "I'll get going jungkook. " You left before you could do something that maight ruin not one but many hearts.

And for the next few weeks you so neither jungkook nor his wife and you were very glad for it. It was untill one Tuesday morning when you swa both of them in front of their house. And they were not kissing or anything but arguing? You heard Minji saying, "what has happened to you? You're so distant these days kook. You don't even kiss me a goodbye??" To which jungkook replies, "it's nothing baby, I'm just stressed with work and things are getting lost in the back of me brain. Come here lemme kiss you" You were shocked when you heard Minji saying "No, you're first gonna tell me who else you're so in love with"

"What the hell, Minji? Why would you say that? " Jungkook was just as shocked. You didn't want to hear anything further so you stepped out of the fence and that's when Minji calls you out. "Mrs.Park! Good morning!"

And hearing your name from her mouth, Jungkook's eyes light up and he turns around quickly to look at you. He couldn't control but then he blurted out, "Nice sweater, Y/N."

Minji called you out to check something and she was right. She was right. "Oh Good morning, Jeon fam. And thank you Jungkook. Hope you guys have a nice day!" You wished them and hurriedly left.

And so did Minji. Jungkook was left standing there.

It took him 2 minutes to finally understand how he reacted and complimented you which was totally out of his mind.

And he finally realises how fucked up he is.

[darkficsyouneveraskedfor]

Members Only 2

Warnings: dark elements, noncon, cheating, other dark elements. Proceed with caution.

Note: Please let me know what you think as it helps me a lot with ideas and I love interacting with you all.

Part of The Club AU

Grace is in tears. She’s babbling as Charlotte and Mona try to mop up her running mascara. The bottle of champagne is empty and Lillian is mindlessly swaying at the window as the club lights flash into the room. It’s chaos. You’re not sure exactly what to do. 

You’ve been with Mrs. Shelby for a few months. Typically, she’s the sort for high tea or a luncheon. Often, you’re following her around to the elitist events and waiting outside watching your phone. Or you attend her privately why she rants about the newest designs be so hard to come by or that she can’t go to Paris whenever she wishes. Her biggest complaints are your most unlikely dreams. 

“I just don’t understand... I try so hard,” she garbles and slurs drunkenly.  

You try not to listen too closely. You’re there to take orders and to make certain she is taken care of. The other women are looking after her just fine and you’d hate to embarrass her by consciously witnessing her unraveling. 

Mona burps behind her hand and you see how her throat locks up. She’s hardly in better condition. Charlotte is slumping from her foray into the tequila and hardly seems cognizant of more than try to clear away the grey streaks from Grace’s cheeks. 

You rush forward as Mona’s shoulders rise. You grab the metal bucket meant for ice and shove it under her mouth. She throws up and hugs the container as she fills it with alcoholic bile and half-digested crustini. Charlotte groans and covers her mouth. 

“Oh, Mona, why do you have to do that?” She whines, “ugh, I need to get out--” 

She hurries off into the attached bathroom and the door slams. Lillian is still entirely unaware. You wonder if it has anything to do with the pill she slipped from a small tin earlier. Whatever the reason, it doesn’t matter. What concerns you is what’s happening right then. 

Mona finishes and nearly drops the bucket. You catch it and set it on the bar. She slumps back and closes her eyes, her head lolling as she mutters. This is no way for refined women to behave. You could never have seen Grace like this, let alone these women in their Chanel and Louboutins. 

“Mrs. Shelby,” you go to your boss and lean down, “should I get the car?” 

“Where is my husband?” She snarls in your face, her tears dissolving at once. “I want Thomas. Right now.” 

“Mrs. Shelby, I don’t know if he’s still here--” 

“I don’t care if he’s here,” she snaps and pushes you away, “don’t talk to me until you find him.” 

You gulp and rub your shoulder where she shoved you. This isn’t good. It’s the very reason you don’t drink. People are so ugly when they do. 

You turn to Mona as she groans, half-bent over her lap. Charlotte returns in a stagger and Lillian sways with her head and shoulders slouched. Alright, you have a plan. 

“Lil,” you go over to the woman by the window, “can you help Mona? Your taxi is here?” 

“Taxi? Where’s the streetcar?” She demands. 

“It’s been delayed but the cab will get you all home,” you promise her, plotting how you’ll flag down a car once you get them out in the fresh air. “Mona,” you go back to the woman on the couch. “Charlotte, how about you help too! It’s been a long night, aren’t you all tired?” 

Your pulse is thumping in your temples. You rarely ever speak to Grace’s friends, especially not like this. You feel like a mother getting her children in line. The three companions finally cluster together, Mona clinging to the other two as they wobble towards the door. You lead them as if you’re dangling cheese before a mouse. 

It takes some time and a few close calls to get them down the spiralled stairs. On even ground, they move a bit better but the dancing bodies and hollers add to the disorder of the night. When you get them outside, a bouncer catches Lillian before she slip on her stiletto heel. He’s got a round belly and a leering smile. 

“Careful, ma’am, that’s a mighty fine dress to be mussing,” he warns as he sets her straight. 

You skirt around them and wave at a yellow car just down the way. As it heads towards you, you take out your phone and sift through Grace’s shared contact book. Oh gosh, where is Charlotte? You suppose if you send them to just one house, they’ll be alright. 

You find Charlotte’s address as the driver pulls up. The bouncer comes forward again to assist the women into the car and you thank him. He dips his head chivalrously as he folds Lillian’s legs into the taxi. You cringe and poke your head inside to instruct the driver. You hope they get there otherwise you might be handing out resumes again. 

You shut the door and turn back to face the club. You’re not the sort to frequent those places and only Grace’s presence lures you in. The bouncer walks you back to the doors and you flit back inside. You’re caught in the crush, sent crashing into another person by a flailing body. You fight through the crowd, putting your elbow up as you raise your other arm to protect your head. 

You trip free of the wall of dancers and reach the bottom of the stairs to the private room. You blow out a breath and look up, then around. You should try to find Mr. Shelby. You need help with Grace as it is but you’re terrified that you may get her into trouble. She’s drunk and she’s not thinking. You doubt he’ll be impressed with her in her current state. He rarely seems impressed with anything. 

“Are you looking for me?” The voice jolts you and you jump as you face the very man who’d only just been haunting your mind. You nod and blink dumbly. “My wife...” 

“Sir, um,” you look back and forth guiltily, “she’s... not feeling well--” 

“She’s drunk,” he says pointedly. “Hmm,” his lips curve but it’s not really a smile. “Yes, she does love her champagne. We discussed this before, didn’t we?” His dark lashes flick and his jaw squares as he peers up the stairs, “well, then, shall we go save her from herself?” 

“Um, sir, she didn’t eat much, maybe--” 

“Do not make excuse for her. I pay you to keep her busy, not to cover her tail,” he insists, “please, after you.” 

He gestures up the stairs and you lower your gaze, “I’m sorry, Mr. Shelby. I’m only concerned for her.” 

“Someone should be if she isn’t concerned for herself,” he remarks. 

You turn and start up the steps. He follows, closely. You lead him up the metal stairs and open the door to the private room. Your met with the shatter of the champagne bottle as it flies at the door frame next to you. You put your hand up as shards of glass rain across your right side. 

“How dare you leave me like that--” She snarls. 

“Grace!” Mr. Shelby brushes by you, nudging you gently out of his way, only to storm towards his wife. 

“Oh, there you are,” she sneers, “finally done with your whore--” 

“I’ve been about business while you’ve been here drowning in champagne. Champagne I am paying for.” He bends over her, looming dangerously. 

“Business,” she mocks then scoffs as she stares up at him defiantly, “sure.” 

“Don’t,” he warns as he stands straight, “I paid for you to have a night out. I thought perhaps you might appreciate that. I wonder when you became so spoiled.” 

She pouts and juts out her chin, “Tommy...” she reaches for him as he turns away, tearing his sleeve away from her grasp.

He marches for the door and stop right beside you, “are you alright?” 

“Sir, I was only startled--” 

You wince as he dusts off a piece of glass from your shoulder. 

“Get her home,” he demands, “but not at your own risk. I wouldn’t be so disappointed to hear if she blusters herself into the gutters.” 

He huffs and pulls open the door. You watch him go as Grace devolves into drunken sobs. You hope she doesn’t remember this. You’d rather forget it yourself. 

[pretty-blkgirl]

your blog is becoming my safe place so now i got another request 🥲❤️

may you do another black!reader x seungmin?

maybe the reader is wearing long box braids, and an attractive guy complements her hair and asks to touch it. seungmin witnesses the interaction and gets a lil jealous and possessive over the reader.

anyways, i love your writing! i hope you're doing well ~ 💞✨

Possessive

//black!fem reader x Seungmin//

Synopsis: Your husband gets jealous when someone flirts with you

Genre: angst, little suggestive

Warnings: reader is fem, swearing, suggestiveness at the end

A/N: Thank you @bbyseung for the request 🫶🏾 I appreciate you soooooooooo much

~~~~|~~~~

“Relax your face” You giggle, looking down at you and your husband’s interlaced fingers.

“Why is he looking at you?” He asks, his face twisting up more into pure disgust

You shrug and follow Seungmin’s glare, making eye contact with an admittedly handsome man. Since you guys were at an event for JYPE, you assumed the guy was either an idol, dancer, or producer. Either way, you couldn’t care less as you turned your gaze back to your husband.

“Baby forget about him” you whisper into his ear. A defeated sigh escapes his lungs as he finally looks at you

“I’m sorry,” He says, “I just get jealous sometimes”

You smile, “It’s okay. Let’s go find the members”

You two stand from the small couch you were occupying, making the handsome stranger debate whether or not he should go talk to you.

The little devil on his shoulder must have won, because he made his way over to you and Seungmin before you two could even take the steps to walk off.

“Hello,” The man says, bowing at the two of you. Politely, you bow but take notice of how Seungmin keeps his body upright. You didn’t have to look at his face to know he was absolutely fuming at the boldness of the stranger.

“Excuse me if this is rude, but I wanted to let you know that your hair is gorgeous”

You grin, instinctively reaching a hand up to play with one of your braids. You had gotten them done the day before; 30-inch knotless box braids in the color 2b, medium-sized.

You were lucky your bestest friend in the whole wide world was a hairstylist because you only spent a little over $200 excluding the tip. She also made you buy her dinner, but that’s only because she bought lunch.

A less-than-gentle squeeze of your hand pulls you out of your thoughts, and you quietly reply, “Thank you! I appreciate that”

Seungmin, ever so possessive, decides to place himself in between you and the stranger. It was silly. Your annoyingly cute husband looked beyond pissed as the stranger paid no mind to him.

“And your dress” The man continued, “It’s really pretty as well”

“Thank you” Seungmin answers before you can, “I bought it for her. Picked it out and everything”

You couldn’t help but roll your eyes and chuckle a little (earning a quick glare from your husband).

“Oh, then you must have good taste,” The man says, still looking at you, “But you can’t take credit for how beautiful her face is, can you?”

….oh no

“Thank you for the compliments, but we really should be going” You rush to say before Seungmin can start talking back

“Forgive me, but I don’t think I could ever forget a woman like you. Can we meet again?”

Seungmin talks before you do this time, letting out a livid, “In your fucking dreams”

As if he could sense the tension, I.N comes out of seemingly nowhere and puts a hand on his friend’s shoulder

“Hyung, y/nnie, we’ve been looking for you two.” He says, his eyes darting between an angry Seungmin and smug looking stranger

“We were just about to come looking for you guys too! Honey, let’s go meet up with the members," you plead, tugging at Seungmin’s arm.

It takes both you and I.N. to drag him away, the stranger simply rolling his eyes and walking over to the next woman he sees.

Seungmin seethes, “Who the fuck is that?”

“The son of one of the shareholders, I think” I.N shrugs, “But it doesn’t matter. Forget about him”

“He hit on my fucking wife, right in front of me”

“And that was disgusting and disrespectful” You sigh, “But I don’t want anyone else but you. Please don’t let him ruin our night”

With a swift glance at you and I.N., followed by the growing voices of the members a few feet away, he decides to let his anger go.

However, that doesn’t mean he didn’t remind you of who you belong to later that night.

[archangeldyke-all]

My girlfriend spent all of yesterday mad as hell at me because I left her for another woman while she was stuck in a coma for years IN HER DREAM and I let this woman become the step mother to our children. We don’t even have kids yet and this entire nightmare scenario was FAKE but I still spent all of yesterday making up for it LMAOO

I’ll do anything to make my girl happy….no matter how ridiculous. How about Sevika getting mad at Reader for the same thing and Reader spends the day making it up to Sevika?

From personal experience…flowers, lots of cuddles and kisses, and loving validation seem to do the trick! 😂

And good head

LMAOOOO i was reading this like 😦 until i read that it was a dream l;fajsdkfa;slkjd tell your girlfriend she's hilarious

men and minors dni

"wake the fuck up."

you snap awake, immedietly on guard and worried by the tone in your girlfriend's voice. your eyes fly around the room, looking for the issue. you can't find anything. "wha?" you ask, turning over to look at sevika.

oh shit. she looks pissed.

fuck. did you forget to take the garbage out last night?

"wha's wrong?" you ask, rubbing your eyes.

sevika smacks your shoulder, and you flop back down on bed from the force of it. "you fucking cheated on me!" she says.

you blink, still trying to wrap your just-awaken mind around her words. "i... did?" you ask, trying to remember the affair you've somehow forgotten.

"i was in a fucking coma! and you didn't just leave me-- you left me to become step-mommy for some bitch and her ugly ass kids!"

"what!?" you ask.

"in my dream, jackass!" sevika growls.

you sigh. ooooh. that makes so much more sense.

a little giggle slips out of you, and sevika frowns, and makes to leave the bed.

"wait, sev!" you squeal, scrambling after your girlfriend and hugging her waist. she huffs, but stays in bed as you try to get your giggles under control. "i'm sorry, baby." you say.

"sorry's not good enough!" sevika whines.

you laugh again. "i didn't even do anything!"

"yes you fucking did!"

"okay, okay." you say, holding your hands up in surrender. you gently rearrange your bodies so sevika's laying in your arms, scratching her head and pressing kisses to her scalp. "how can i make it up to you?" you ask.

sevika sighs against you. "you can't. i'm too hurt. i think we have to break up." she says.

"don't even fucking joke about that." you groan.

she huffs. "fine. make me breakfast?" she requests. you smile, then kiss her forehead.

"i can do that."

you assume that once you had sevika her breakfast, you'll be off the hook for dream-you's mistakes.

you're wrong.

when sevika brings you her empty plate to wash, you try to place a kiss on her cheek. she quickly dodges it.

"what the fuck!?" you squawk.

sevika shrugs. "no kisses for adulterers."

"i didn-- it was a dr-- you were in a coma!"

"oh, so you'd leave me if i was in a coma in real life?!"

you gulp-- she's got you. so, thinking on your feet, you reach forward, slide your hand under your girlfriend's shirt, and pinch her sensitive nipple.

she squeaks. you giggle. "b-babe, stop!" sevika whines.

"gimmie a kiss." you request, puckering your lips. sevika darts forward and kisses you, and you release her nipple. she huffs, one of her hands coming up to protectively cup her tit.

"you're an asshole."

"i'm your asshole. and i'll be your asshole until the day i die, even if you're in a coma." you promise her, pressing your foreheads together. sevika sighs softly, a gentle smile tugging at the corner of her lips, and relief floods your body at the sight.

finally-- she's over her dream.

wrong.

sevika spends the rest of the day pouting at you, getting you to do increasingly ridiclious chores and favors for her to prove your love.

you do each of her requests, of course. you could never say no to her puppy eyes. plus... you can see the real hurt under all the teasing. a cheating dream is a nightmare in its own right, and if the comfort sevika needs afterwards is you doting on her all day then so be it. you're happy to remind her how devoted you are to her.

so, you shove a plate of cut fruit into her hands at midday, refill her water bottle each time she asks.

you cover in kisses, sure to be even clingier than you usually are (which, according to jinx, is already at dangerous levels of disgusting), give her a nice long back massage after lunch.

you whip up one of her favorite meals for dinner, and put on her favorite of your panties for after dinner.

and, when you're both finally crawling into bed at the end of the night, you turn over on your side and smile at your girl.

"you still mad at me?" you ask.

sevika huffs. "no." she says. "'m gonna miss being spoiled though." she whispers. you snort.

"like i don't spoil you everyday anyways."

sevika smiles shyly, and then she shoots forward to bury herself in your arms.

taglist!

@fyeahnix @lavendersgirl @half-of-a-gay @thesevi0lentdelights @sexysapphicshopowner

@shimtarofstupidity @chuucanchuucan @badbye666 @femme-historian @lia-winther

@ellsss @sevikaspillowprincess @emiliabby @sevikasbeloved @hellorai

@glass-apothecary @macaroni676 @artinvain @realgreeniebeanie @k3n-dyll

@sevsdollette @ellieslob

[worldofkuro]

Hello! Curiosity has been eating at me because of this ama2ing fic of yours so ;

What if it the genders were switched?

Crazy wife , soft husband duo??

Oh dear, I’m happy you enjoyed Painted Smile so much. Now, that is actually a funny thought.

Alastor as a woman would be more stressed out, I think. She wouldn’t show it, but because of her gender, men would look down on her, saying her big dreams were just for a little girl. That’s why she felt elated when she first killed a man. 

Her first kill would be her father, of course, but it would be the first time and last time she did it by knife.

Her next kill, she would poison the victims, watching as the poor fool pleaded for his life. She would feel giddy at the scene, all men were looking down on her because of her gender and when they were near death, they were pleading for their life… How pathetic, she wouldn’t let those pathetic insects dictate her life.

You would be the one holding the knife. You would be the one holding the victim's face in front of your wife and asking softly what she wanted to do. You would always try to see what was going on inside her head but she would always smile at you. You were the soft husband that a lot of women wanted to have.

Alastor wasn’t jealous, she knew you were hers and she was yours. She was proud of showing off the man that would stay by her side forever. She would say:

“ My darling husband didn’t order this my dear, could you be useful and bring him what he asks?”

“ Darling, I’m okay-”

“ Yes, you are now that they are going to bring you what you asked for.”

She did freak out when she found out she was pregnant, she didn't want a child, she really didn’t. But… that would tie you down even more to her, right…? Alright, she will keep the child, it would sleep under the carpet but she would keep it for you.

[kurishiri]

05 . . . main story

— this translation may not be 100% accurate or may contain creative liberties. if you enjoy, please consider reblogging, but don’t repost or claim these as your own!

— cw: objectification, infantilization, non-consensual touching and invasion of personal space, obsessive and possessive behavior.

—— Dream ——

——What a beautiful child. You have golden locks like the madam.

Maid: He’s almost like an angel. Come now, look at those jewel-like eyes.

Butler: He was born to be happy; that is how beautiful he is.

It was almost as though being beautiful was a condition to be happy.

Everyone smiled and praised his beauty with their lips — except for one.

(If I just have this, it will all be alright.)

(That’s why, please smile—)

——Please don’t look at me with those sad eyes.

Maid’s voice: Kyaaah!! S-someone, come here—!!!

——It’s not enough. I need more.

I need enough, to compensate for the happiness I stole away.

I need the most beautiful thing in the world—

—— End dream ——

Elbert: ...ngh, ...hah, hah...

As if seeking air on the water’s surface from the depths of the sea, he awoke from his bed with a start.

Elbert: ...Hah......

It was still dark outside the window, and when he looked at the clock, it was apparent not even two hours had passed.

Elbert: ...

His gaze dropped to his palm. There laid the shell she had given him, which had not shifted since before he fell asleep.

Ever since she gave him it at the beach, he had not let go of it since.

Elbert: ...

He tried to put it on top of the nightstand — but after tens of seconds of hesitation,

He pulled out a suitable box from the drawer of the nightstand, and locked the shell in there.

He then selected a suitable pen from the many he had and scribbled something on the back of a postcard, depicting a scene from a certain somewhere.

Elbert: ...Hah...

He then placed the postcard gently in the box, then once again sank into his bed.

Some days after Lord Elbert had taken me to the beach——

Elbert: Kate... are you alright?

Kate: A little nervous... but overall I’m fine.

Alfons: You could hardly persuade anyone that you’re fine when you’re thiiis stiff.

Kate: Uwah!?

Alfons: Oh my, all I did was trace your back... you’re quite inexperienced, no?

Elbert: Al, don’t do that.

Alfons: Yes, yes.

We had been keeping tabs on the Bernard Company, so we were headed to the party where art collectors gathered.

(The Bernard Company was the criminal organization who had attacked the inn where Daisy worked.)

(When I think about how we might run into one of the perpetrators... it’s harder to not be nervous.)

Elbert: ...It’ll be alright.

Giving me a fleeting sidelong glance at my being a nervous wreck, Lord Elbert murmured.

Elbert: No matter what happens... I won’t let anyone hurt you.

(Lord Elbert...)

Kate: ...Thank you.

(I can’t afford to get in the way of these two, as they are on a mission.)

(I need to pull myself together.)

Our plan today was for me and Elbert to act as collectors, and for Alfons to be an attendant.

And our goal for today was to get to know the host art dealer of this gathering, who seemed to be a member of the Chamber of Commerce.

(If we raise any suspicion before we put our plan into action, it’ll be the end for us.)

The clothes we’re wearing today were all those Elbert had bought the previous day.

Even one small accessory cost more money than I could make in a lifetime.

(But... just for now, I’ll have to wear this and become a natural noble lady.)

Kate: I’m alright now. Let’s go.

Elbert: ... [surprised]

Alfons: Hehe... you are quite a courageous little robin, contrary to what I expected.

I followed the two of them, and immediately upon entering, I felt the line of sight of the surrounding attendants unanimously turn to focus on us.

Girl with a folding fan: Aahh... he’s here. What beauty...!

Gentleman with glasses: I can only let out a sigh... look at those eyes like blue sapphires.

Noble woman with curly hair: Haa... He is surely more beautiful than any art piece here I’ve laid my eyes on today.

Even if I wanted to block those murmuring voices out, I couldn’t.

Along with the gazes surrounding Lord Elbert, they couldn’t stop letting out sighs of admiration.

Elbert: ...

Every time I heard those voices of admiration, and every step we took up the stairway,

it became clear that a shadow was forming over Elbert’s expression.

Alfons: You appear quite pale, Elbie. Would you like to take a rest?

Elbert: No… I’m fine.

(He looks far from ‘fine’ to me though…)

Kate: Lord Elbert, please don’t push yourself.

Elbert: I won’t… thank you.

(…As I thought, he is not fine.)

(It’s only natural he would become weary of all those who stared at him and admired him as though he were a work of art.)

Lord Elbert’s expression was downcast, to the point it wouldn’t be unreasonable to think there was something more.

(Will he really be okay…)

——Lined up in the hall, which was brightly lit by a chandelier, were many works of art.

(Wow… it’s almost like an art museum.)

There were paintings and plaster figure statues… there were all kinds of art that it was almost blinding.

But, when I thought about how these pieces of art were obtained through immoral ways, I couldn’t feel moved.

Middle-aged gentleman: Hello there, Elbert. I was waiting for you.

White-haired lady: My, my, your face is as beautiful as ever. I almost want to keep you by my side as decoration and admire you.

Green-eyed lady: Oh, how I missed you, Elbert!

Elbert: …

All of a sudden, a group who appeared to be Lord Elbert’s acquaintances had gathered around us.

The lively voices continued to spread, so I distanced myself a little from Lord Elbert.

Kate: It seems Lord Elbert is quite popular.

Alfons: …Indeed.

I made some small talk with Alfons, keeping my voice quiet.

I couldn’t help but notice how little Alfons spoke, for someone who was normally more talkative.

(But it’s a bit of a relief to know that Lord Elbert has people he knows.)

(He seems a little down, but I hope he will feel better if he talks with them.)

That gave me a sense of calm, and when I looked back at Lord Elbert and his acquaintances—

Middle-aged gentleman: I wonder how many years have passed since I could look at you like this. Come now, show your face so I can see it better.

The gentleman, who clearly exuded an air of nobility, used both of his hands to cup Lord Elbert’s cheeks.

Then, he leaned in close enough that their lips might end up meeting.

(…Why…?)

Lord Elbert said nothing, nor did he show any signs of protest.

He simply let the other do what he wanted with him.

Middle-aged gentleman: Oh, you mustn’t turn away from me. Look at me, Elbert.

Elbert: …Alright.

Even I could see that this was clearly not a normal way to greet someone.

The middle-aged gentleman, as if making sure of a doll’s craftsmanship,

tilted Lord Elbert’s face left and right, admiring him.

Middle-aged gentleman: Truly, your beauty is second to none.

Green-eyed lady: Elbert, turn toward me as well… My, are you a little short on sleep, perhaps?

Elbert: …I’m fine.

White-haired lady: Are you sure? You aren’t so scared you can’t sleep, aren’t you? I can sing you a lullaby again.

Elbert: …Thank you.

(Is this… his ‘normal’?)

Along with words of admiration for his physique, they touched all over Lord Elbert’s body.

It was almost as though he were being put on display.

Even though Lord Elbert donned a deeply pained expression, he didn’t try to avoid their hands.

Kate: Um, Alfons…

Alfons: What is it?

I was hoping he could help when I looked beside me, but he only responded back to me with a cool voice.

Kate: Maybe I am speaking out of turn, but… would it not be best to stop that…?

Alfons: If you wish to intervene, by all means, do what you will. I won’t be saying anything though.

A: That said, it is not the first time what we are seeing here has happened to Elbie.

Kate: …Are you saying this is common?

My own voice trembled from fear.

Alfons didn’t answer, simply letting a small, fleeting smile play on his lips.

Alfons: Anyhow, please make sure not to forget ‘our role’ here.

A: After all, if a servant acts without being ordered to do so by their master, they won’t be forgiven.

(I see… so it’s because today, Alfons is playing the role of a servant.)

(Then, I’m the only one who can stop this situation…?)

Elbert: …

When I turned back toward Lord Elbert, I saw that his face had paled.

(It looks like he’s hurting, so why…)

I had listened in on the voices of the people who were smitten with Lord Elbert’s physique from a short distance away.

Girl with a folding fan: …What is with them? Are they trying to brag to us?

Gentleman with glasses: No, I understand how they feel. If I were allowed, I would want to admire him from up close as well.

Noble woman with curly hair: I would give up all my belongings to be able to touch his skin… just what can I do to get closer to him?

My heart felt cold hearing that.

It was sad hearing those words that seemed to insinuate that Lord Elbert was like some jewel or accessory.

(If he stays here, the situation will only grow more strange—)

(And right now, Lord Elbert was probably, no… definitely hurting more than me.)

Kate: Alfons…

Alfons: Yes?

Kate: I will try my best not to get in the way of the mission, so.

Without finishing my thought, I stepped forward.

Acting as an escort, I approached Lord Elbert from behind and gently touched his elbow.

Kate: Lord Elbert, it would appear as though the host has not yet arrived… so, would you care to come outside?

Elbert: …Kate.

Deep blue eyes that resembled the ocean regarded me.

But it seemed like those eyes dulled the heart, and there was an emptiness somewhere within.

Kate: U, um… your complexion looks slightly pale, and so I figured going outside for some fresh air would benefit you…

Green-eyed lady: I apologize, but who might you be? Elbert, is she a new guard or something else of the sort?

Green-eyed lady: If that is the case, then excuse me, but your dress looks like it’s weeping. Not to mention your conduct is quite disgraceful.

Middle-aged gentleman: Haha, there is no need to go that far; I feel bad for her now.

Middle-aged gentleman: Young miss, we have been Elbert’s acquaintances since he was young. So, would you mind staying out of this?

I could feel the gazes of the three people surrounding Elbert, and the gazes from my surroundings in general, seem to glare daggers.

(But…)

I can’t just leave Lord Elbert, whose face was becoming blue, alone to fend for himself.

Middle-aged gentleman: Are you listening, young miss?

Kate: …!

A hand found its way under my chin and with a sharp motion, forced me to look up.

Middle-aged gentleman: Now, that just won’t do, a rubbish stone like you, standing among the finest gem in the showcase.

White-haired lady: Truly… she is a disgrace to beauty.

The heartless words directed at me put me on edge.

(I know without anyone telling me that I’m not suited for a place like this.)

(But, aren’t the things that these people are doing here more of an embarrassment?)

Middle-aged gentleman: What is that look in your eyes?

The gentleman’s face grew red with anger, and I felt a shiver run down my spine. But—

Elbert: ……Could you stop?

With just a few words from Lord Elbert, the room grew deathly silent.

Elbert: Touching her, criticizing her… please stop that.

← prev next →

[nkirukaj]

Our Renaissance (4)

Pairing: Human!Alastor x Fem! OC

Warnings: Swearing; Racially Degrading Language, Graphic Depictions of Violence, 1920s Slang

Genre: Angst/SMUT(& Humor!)

Word Count: 13.8K

1928

Dear Alastor,

I will be heading over to where you are in a month! I do hope to see you, perhaps we could meet? 

Maybe at the coffee place that you showed me the last time we were together?

You did say you would treat me to tea when you got the money, and I am assuming you have the funds now! Haha! I cannot wait to see you!

Sincerely xo,

Vera

That was a month ago. Alastor had been looking forward to this since he received the letter. Ever since it had come in the mail, he had been studying the bottom of it. 

Sincerely xo,

Vera

Hugs and kisses.

He waits at the airport for her in his best blazer and dress pants, waiting and waiting as many men and women exit, each one further disappointing him as he waits for his girl. When he sighs in defeat, he feels a tap on his back, turning around, he sees Vera, standing there in a lovely loose pink dress, clearly taking advantage of her newfound freedom.

“Hello stranger,” she greets him, her voice lower and full of maturity

“Bonjou cher,” he grins, winking

“Did you miss me?” she grabs his arm and pulls him into a hug

“So it’s just you this time? No Daddy?”

She shakes her head, smiling “It’s just me,”

“Lovely,” he says picking her up by her waist and swinging her around as she laughs

“You look spiffy,” she tells him

“You look quite ritzy yourself, my dear. What have you been up to? Any shows you’re in lately? Tell me everything,”

Vera puts her hand up, palm facing him “How about you treat me to tea, and I can tell you everything there,” her eyes glow brightly

Simple things like this, sitting in a coffee shop and being able to pay for it were a dream of his. As they sat and sipped their drinks in silence, the actress broke it.

“I read about you in the papers.”

“I could say the same about you. ”

“It’s funny, my father actually sent me a newspaper with your picture in it. And he left a note asking if I ‘remember my little friend’.” She chuckles 

“It was my mother that showed me the pictures of you. I still have them on my dresser.”

She covers her face “Oh my goodness that is so embarrassing! Which picture?”

“The one where your hair is all curly, and your dress is cut low...” he smirks

“Oh gosh!” she blushes “That one is a mess!”

“I saw one photo with you and another woman, who was that?”

“Oh, that was Fredi Washington, fabulous woman. She’s phenomenal, we were in a short film together.”

Alastor seems impressed “Oh my, you’re getting to know everyone. Doing anything soon?”

“I’m actually here for a show. It’s playing at the Lyric Theatre. So I’ll be here for a while rehearsing and while the show runs.”

“Well, that’s just perfect. The stars have aligned for us, my dear.”

“How so?” She places a napkin on her lap, folding her hands above it before giving him her attention

“I have an idea that could benefit us both.”

“Oh?” Vera raises her eyebrow

“It’s clear that we have some sort of chemistry.”

“Chemistry?” she repeats incredulously

He laughs at her “Yes, Chemistry, that’s what I said. Don’t tell me you don’t think about necking with me” he winks

She looks around “Pipe down! You can’t just say that in public!” she whispers

He can’t help but look amused “Now is the time for sexual freedom! Isn’t that what you said?” He leans back in his chair

“I know what I said,” she leans forward “But I have a carefully curated image to uphold as a celebrity”

He crosses one of his legs over the other “You think I don’t? I’m a celebrity too. It’s actually a bit dangerous for me to be here unguarded.” he jests “I put myself at risk, for you.” he grabs her hand with his, both gloved. His black, and hers white.

She smiles and rolls her eyes “You still wear the gloves I gave you?” she lowers her voice “I’m guessing nobody knows they’re women’s gloves?” she teases him

“And they don’t need to know,” he shoots back

“Besides, your face isn’t even what people most recognize. It’s your voice! So as long as you keep it down, you should be fine. My face, unfortunately,” she places her hand on her chest “Is a commodity.” She seems pleased with herself “My face is on posters, newspapers, and magazines.” She humble-brags “I even saw myself on a billboard!” she sips her tea gracefully “My image helps shape the current beauty standard for Black women, along with Josephine, Gladys, and of course Fredi,” 

He leans forward to her, whispering slightly flirtatiously “And you love it.”

Vera breaks out into a grin “I do. It’s a dream.” She leans back and takes him in more “Looks like we were wrong about each other when we first met.”

“And I couldn’t be happier for it.”

She places her hands over her skirt “We’ve changed a lot Alastor. We’re grown.”

“Indeed we are,” he drinks from his mug

“By the way, what is that?” 

He raises his brows “Hmm?”

“The way you’re talking. You were not talking like that before, I’m sure of it.”

He places the mug back on the table “Oh! This is the voice I use for my broadcasts, the accent is quite popular amongst other radio stars.”

“Stars.” she smiles “You callin’ yourself a star?”

“It’s what I am. It’s what we are, be'be.” he gestures with one of his hands

Vera’s eyes flit from his hands up toward his lips, remembering more about the day she gave him those gloves “Be'be?” 

“Baby,” He leans back, gazing at her over his glasses, his light brown eyes bright and dilated slightly “Now would you listen to my idea?”

Vera scoots up in her chair “Sure Alastor, tell me.”

“I want to court you.”

Vera covers her mouth with her hand. It was all she could do to stop from laughing out loud and making a scene, though she did let out an obnoxious snort. Alastor looks annoyed at this reaction, simply waiting for her to be finished. She looks up at him and removes her hand “Oh, you’re serious? Alastor, is nobody home? Where did you pull that idea from, your ass?”

“If you’d let me finish, I could explain.” he huffs “We’re both stars, meaning we’re in the limelight, are you seriously telling me that no one has commented on your lack of a husband?” Vera glances away from him “Because I know that many have commented on my ‘inability’ to find a Jane suitable enough to marry, and there have been some groups of people who take that,” he clears his throat “Personally.”  her eyes goad him to continue “If that’s been happening to me, I can’t imagine what’s been happening to you. A swanky dame, oozing with sex appeal, and yet still hasn’t landed a husband? What would the papers say?” He drinks from his mug once more. 

“So what are you proposing exactly?”

“I’ll level with you. I have certain….interests and…hobbies that I don’t need getting out. If enough people start wondering why I’m still not married at this age, they could start digging and find some things they do not want to see.”

“And what do I get out of this arrangement?”

“The public favor, the ability to open a bank account where you can control your own funds, and of course, a sexy husband.” he leans back in his chair and smirks at her

She can’t help but smile at him and all his brazenness. Sometimes he made her feel like she was 19 again “And I suppose you get a sexy wife then?” She says jokingly

“I do indeed, my dear.” He responds fully serious

The seriousness of his tone causes her to blush “You’re just too much Alastor,” she says, not meeting his gaze

He leans forward “I think I’m just enough baby.” She scoffs, not knowing what else to say, overwhelmed by his charm “So it’s a deal then?” He reaches his hand out in front of him, and Vera stares before embracing it.

“Deal.”

______________________________________________________

Vera and Alastor are taking a stroll through town, occasionally stopping to marvel at the constant music in the air, along with the smells of delicious food hitting their nostrils from every direction.

“God, I never get tired of being here,” Vera says to no one in particular, twirling on a whim

Alastor smiles softly at the sight of her. He understood why she was able to make her dream come true, she was truly a wonderful sight to behold “You could live here if you like.”

She stops to ponder the idea“ I suppose that if I am to become Mrs. Fontenot, then I would have to, no?”

He chuckles “I go by Baudelaire now, but not necessarily. I’d be here, but I’d just have to miss ya.” He teases

Vera scrunches up her nose “Baudelaire? Why ever would you change your last name?”

He shrugs “It’s easier to digest for some people.”

“Well that’s ridiculous, just about everyone here has a bit of French in them, but somehow that French name is too hard to get through their thick skulls? No, absolutely not. If we marry eventually, I shall be Mrs. Fontenot and nothing else. Of course, I will still be going by ‘Bates’ in regards to my work.”

“Oh of course,” He turns and stands in front of her grabbing her shoulders and shaking them. They both laugh as she pushes him playfully.

Alastor walks up to a street vendor, picking some Encore Azaleas, and casually paying the man all before Vera could see him. He presents her with the flowers and she gladly accepts, not expecting the gift.

“Oh thank you! I love these flowers!”

“I know,” he smirks. He loved this feeling, of being able to walk into town and participate in the city. Able to sit down at a coffee shop and take care of the tab. The ability to treat his intended to something as small as a flower that could make her day. Being on the radio was a dream in itself, but it made many other dreams come true as well.

“Look at you Mr. Moneybags,” she teases

“I don’t have that much money,”

“You never would’ve bought me a flower a few years ago,”

He shrugs “Hm, maybe plastic ones,”

“Oh please you hated me,”

“Hmm not as much as you hated me,” he grins

She giggles “We were quite the pair of enemies,”

“We most definitely were,”

“What changed, Mr. Baudelaire?” she says his new name mockingly, yet flirtatiously

“I suppose I simply grew up,”

“And realized that us girls, don’t have cooties?”

“Oh no, I still believe that,” he laughs

She laughs with him “If I have cooties, you’ve definitely caught them,”

“I may need a doctor then,” he puts the back of his hand on his forehead

She laughs heartily “Goodness Alastor, you are such a character!”

“Why thank you!” He spins her by her arm

She falls into his chest “Anything else planned for the day Alastor?”

He thinks for a moment, shrugging “Unless you would like to go hunting, then you’re out of luck.”

“I can go hunting with you.”

He raised a brow “Are you sure?” she nodded “Why?” he crossed his arms

“I like to be well-rounded,” she smiles

“Fair enough,”

Alastor lines the shotgun up to his eye, taking a moment to breathe in before the loud crack pierces through the air. Out in the distance, the loud thud of a deer that was hit square in the eyes is heard.

“Think you can do that?” He turns to Vera and cocks the gun once more

“I’m certain I can,” she tells him

“First let’s take this off,” he swipes her hat and she reaches for it “This is going to mess up your vision,” he plops it on his head and Vera chuckles at how funny it makes him look

“Should I remove my gloves as well?” she puts her hands on her hips

“No! The gloves are perfect. Now here,” he hands her the gun and helps her steady it “A little heavy for ya?” he snickers and she rolls her eyes at him

“These were clearly not made for a lady’s hand,” she holds it up to her eye the same way she saw Alastor do

He stands behind her, one hand on her hip and the other on the gun “Don’t hold it so close, you’ll get hit in the face,” he warns

Vera stomps “Show me then!”

Alastor holds the gun in front of her from behind her “Just focus on pulling the trigger,”

She takes a deep breath like she saw him do, taking a shot but missing it by a long ways

He cocks the gun “Okay do it again, but…better,”

Vera rolls her eyes again, focusing and concentrating, pulling the trigger and hitting a doe in the neck, she covers her mouth in astonishment, falling backward into Alastor, who shoots the gun in the air accidentally. In an instant he takes her to the ground, covering her body with his.

His breathing is heavy when he asks “You alright?”

She nods and starts laughing uncontrollably, she covers her mouth again to stop herself, but it doesn’t work.

“What’s so funny?” he breathes onto her face

“I can’t believe that just happened!” she cackles and from his proximity, he can feel her heart palpitating as he pulls her up to her feet. She’s still breathing heavily from all of the laughing she’s doing, and Alastor can’t help but crack a smile.

“Someone is hysterical,”

She stares up at him “I am not hysterical,”

“Then whatever are you laughing for?”

Vera catches her breath and thinks “I’m not really sure if I am being honest,”

Alastor wraps his arm around her waist and comments “Absolutely the strangest doll I’ve ever seen,” and flashes her his award-winning grin.

“Why do you hunt? I never understood the idea of it,”

“It passes the time my dear, and when I fire I feel like I am on top of the world. The universe at my beck and call,”

She grins back at him “You are the most dramatic man in the world!”

“That’s why I’m a performer darling!”

“You want me to be on your radio show?”

“Of course! It would be great for both of us! We can play up our chemistry so our marriage doesn’t seem out of nowhere”

She ponders it “Fine, then you have to be photographed with me,”

“Of course! What would it look like if I never took pictures with my beautiful wife,” he put emphasis on the word, making Vera’s stomach flutter. She was going to be Alastor’s wife.

“Alright, when do you want me on your show?”

He taps his chin “How about tomorrow?”

Her eyes widen “That is a bit short notice, but sure I believe that I can work it into my schedule,”

Alastor grins “Our courtship begins now,”

“Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen, you know who I am, Alastor Baudelaire and you are all our delightful listeners of WWL, thank you all for tuning in!”

Vera sits behind him and mouths ‘Fontenot’ while making hand gestures. He rolls his eyes in an amused fashion before continuing. “Tonight we have breaking news! Connor Glass, the oldest banker in town has been found dead with his throat slit and stab wounds in his mouth and both of his eyes. Oh my!” He covers his mouth with his hand “How gruesome. Apparently, he was found in a dark alley near his own home. No one is safe anymore!”

Alastor waited in the woods near the old man’s house, he tripped him and fell into the alleyway, giving him a concussion. He remembers digging the knife through the man’s eyes and the groans the man let out as he died. He reached inside the man’s throat-

“He seemed to have been found without his vocal cords. How spooky. If the elderly aren’t safe, who is?”

It was odd though as Vera watched him, did not seem like he was concerned for the news that he was reporting on. Of course, to be in this line of work, one must be desensitized to the things one is saying. However, he did not seem unattached, but very involved. Involved and pleased. The grin he wore was something evil, something immoral as if he thrived on the demise of these people. Even more odd was how Vera found herself drawn to this sinful energy, the curve of his nasty grin sent shivers down her body, aching for the attention of his fingers.

“Are you ready?”

She snaps her head up “Yes?”

He snickers “Are you sure? Because you’re up next,”

“Really?”

“No. Of course you are!” He sits back down and gestures to the chair beside him “Sit here, darling,” she does and he pulls her closer to him to share the mic.

“Do I not get my own microphone?”

“I think it’s better if we share,” he smirks

“We have to be really close,”

He pulls her even closer “Much better,” he leans into her face, opening his mouth “And we’re back!”

She rolls her eyes at him, smiling. 

“I’d love to introduce the most wonderful, incredible, talented, and beautiful doll this side of America, my darling, Miss Vera Bates.”

She giggles “Hello Alastor,” 

“Now Miss Bates is not only a highly esteemed member of the Black elite of New York City, she is also a new coming accomplished actress. Gracing New Orleans with her presence for a run of an original musical, opening later this year.”

“Well, when you say it all like that it sounds amazing.” They both laugh at her faux humility

“Not only is Miss Bates talented but she’s very smart and drop-dead gorgeous. Unfortunately for you all, you don’t get the view that I have right now”

Vera giggles again “I do hope that you plan on attending opening night, Mr. Baudelaire” she speaks very breathy and flirtatiously, raising her eyebrow

Alastor’s voice turns slick and sultry “Of course Miss Bates, I wouldn’t miss it for the world ma chérie,” he peers at her over his glasses “Not only do I adore theater, but I also adore you.”

She blushes, not knowing where the line between performance and reality is drawn “Then I’ll be sure to reserve you a seat at the front, Mr. Baudelaire,”

“The better to see your beautiful face, Miss Bates”

She blushes and doesn’t respond.

“Now Miss Bates, do you think you can give a snippet of your show? Maybe a line or a song?”

“Now, I can’t do that. That would be against my contract,”

“Oh, that is quite unfortunate. We would have loved to hear that voice. But I suppose good things come to those who wait,”

“Indeed they do Mr. Baudelaire,” she teases

“Tell us Vera, how did you acquire such a gorgeous voice?”

“Well I did take voice lessons as a child,”

“Lessons? How interesting! Here I was thinking you were born with all this talent,”

“Okay, wise guy I was born with talent,”

He raises his eyebrows “Oh? Well, why don’t you show us? Or is your voice under contract as well?”

She clears her throat “I suppose I can sing something, are you ready?”

“Yes!”

I'd rather be blue, thinking of you

I'd rather be blue over you

Than be happy with somebody else

I'm crazy about 'ya, without 'ya

For you I'm strong

I can't do without 'ya

Oucha-ma-goucha, don't stay too long!

I need a little ah, little ooh, little oh

And I'm knocking on wood

Honey hurry up, hurry up, hurry up

It's so hard to be good

I'd rather be blue, thinking of you

I'd rather be blue over you

Than be happy with somebody else

Will I be good? Will I be bad?

Don't be a fool, you fool

My little flat, I'm turning that

Into a Sunday school

While you're away I'm here to say

There'll be no ice man there

Singing the blues I'm gonna use

Nothing but Frigidaire

I'd rather be blue, thinking of you

I'd rather be blue over you

Than be happy with somebody else

Blue over you

I'd rather be blue over you

Than be hap-hap-hap-happy

With somebody else

When she looks up, he’s staring at her with no words. Vera clears her throat once more “Fanny Brice? I don’t know if you know the song,”

“I know of it. Now ladies and gentlemen, if you aren’t applauding in your living rooms then either you’re deaf or you’ve gone completely screwy!”

“Oh stop, Alastor! You’re such a charmer,”

“Oh now…thank you!”

“What about you? Any other talents besides the gift of gab?”

Alastor looks to the side “Well I suppose I’m fond of taking things apart and putting things back together. I started somewhere in my adolescent years,”

He thought of a moment when he’d dismembered another boy.

“I wonder what you would get if you put the arms where the legs should be? I supposed you’d be doing a handstand!!” He sings and devolves into laughter while clapping the severed hands.

He’s sitting in front of his mic with an interested bright, psychotic smile. Vera examines him and his tone.

“Wow, what an ominous way to say that,”

“Well, I have to keep people on their toes!” his smile grew brighter “Have you always been interested in acting?”

“Why of course! It’s my lifeblood? And you with radio?”

“I could never imagine doing anything else,”

“Well, the world is better for it,”

“For you or me?”

She grins back at him “Yes,”

They both cackle, on the air. 

“This has been the lovely Miss Vera Bates, give her a hand.” he sighs “Do you hear that applause?” he asked her

“No!” They cackle some more as he turns the show to some music.

________________________________________________________________

“You may be wondering why you’ve all been gathered here today,” Vera announces to May and her family “Well, Alastor go on,”

“Go on what?”

“Tell them!”

“Tell them what?”

“About your…plan?”

“My plan?”

She furrows her brows and whispers to him.

“Oh! I have the intention to court Vera,” he tells them.

Their audience is stunned.

“Oh! This is amazing!” May pipes up

“Does this mean he’ll be my brother?” asks a grown-up Brynn

“Well, it’s just courting, it doesn’t mean it’s going anywhere else. Right, Vera?”

Vera’s eyes dart away “We’ll see,”

“Miss Vera, I would love to have you as a daughter-in-law! Promise me that I can make your wedding dress,”

“Now don’t get so excited May, we don’t know how far this is going to go. My Vera has many prospects,”

“Any serious ones?” Alastor raised his brow

“Yes, they’re very serious,” Cassius squints his eyes

“But is she serious about them?”

“Yes indeed,’

“Then why am I courting her?”

“Perhaps you just adore wasting your time,”

Vera interjects “Hello, I am right here! A human being with a mouth, thank you,”

“I apologize, darling, I only meant so many gentlemen would love your hand in marriage,”

“Like me,” Alastor responds

“Of course,” Cassius says flatly

“Of course, it doesn’t have to lead to marriage, but I know my boy has been stuck on Miss Vera for a while now,”

Cassius seems tense “Has he?” he asks through his teeth

Vera looks to Alastor, who looks away from her “Really?”

“But I must admit you have raised quite a young lady,”

Cassius boasts “Well thank you, it was a bit harder than raising other children, but I did my best,”

“What do you mean by that?” Alastor cocked his head

“It’s not any of your business now is it?”

“If she is to be my wife I feel as though I should know,”

“Well there’s no guarantee that she’ll be your wife, so it’s not necessary,” Cassius stands 

Vera goes between the two men “All right we do not need a blind meat fight,”

“Language Vera!” “She is a grown woman, Cassius,”

“Watch it,” he leans in and Vera physically pushes them away from each other

“That’s enough! I’ve had enough of this. I will make my own choices, I am a woman now father! And Alastor, stop starting things because you think it’s funny,”

Alastor smirks behind her “No promises,”

Cassius sits back down “So, what do you have planned for my daughter?” Thank you

“I was just thinking maybe I could do what you do. Treat her like a child maybe and see how things work out?”

May put a hand on her son’s shoulder “Alastor,” she warns him “I’m sorry, he can’t help himself. Just like his father,”

Alastor chuckles “No I’m not,” he speaks with the utmost seriousness “I was just teasing of course,”

“Oh May, I am so sorry that you have to deal with this kind of behavior,”

“Oh yes, and I am so sorry to you as well Daphne,”

“Do NOT speak to my wife!”

Vera puts her head in her hands “UGH!”

“Vera, what have we talked about, inside voices,”

“I am upset father! You refuse to cease this nonsense, not even for me! Your ego is more important than me!”

“Do NOT raise your voice at me!”

“I AM A GROWN WOMAN FATHER!”

“Well, what about him Vera? Huh?! You just let him disrespect your family?!”

She looks towards Alastor “No, I just-“

“You don’t know what you want! And it’s time for this little experiment to be over!”

“What experiment father? Doing something and choosing something on my own?! You know I invited you here to tell you, not ask your permission!”

The silence is deafening, the tension is so thick you could cut it with a knife.

Cassius turns to Alastor “Things were so much better before you got into my daughter’s head,”

“Better for who?” Alastor examines his nails “Because it was much worse from my perspective,”

“I think we should get-“ Cassius gets cut off

“Yes, I do believe I should get going!” he starts jaunting off toward the door and Vera follows him

“Where are you going?”

He fixes the collar on his jacket “Emergency down at the station. I do believe I should fix it,”

“You are making a horrible impression!” she whispers

“From the looks of it, it seems that your father was,” his tone light and playful

She crosses her arms “Who said that I was talking about with him?”

“I am sorry, I don’t know what you mean my dear,”

She sighs “I mean me Alastor, this is how it may be if we marry? I don’t want every meeting with my family to be a fight. If this is how it’s going to be then I may have to call this deal off,”

Alastor’s expression darkens slightly “Now now, let us not get dramatic over one conversation,”

She put her hands on her hips “Dramatic??”

He sighs “I apologize. I’m just in a bit of a rush, but we can discuss this when I return, all right?” He cups her chin

Vera smiles “All right,”

He strokes her cheek with his thumb “Good girl,” 

A blush rises her cheeks as she allows him to walk out without another word. The door slam rings throughout the house.

___________________________________________________________

Cassius was not pleased to hear that his daughter was being taken to a club.

“A night out of dancing father, what is the issue with that?”

“Of course, nothing wrong with a night of dancing with a bunch of hooligans?”

She gathers some nice earrings “Who is to say that they are hooligans father?”

“Only hooligans go to clubs,”

“You go to clubs, for business correct?”

“High-end clubs. This is a lousy club where the poor link,”

Vera fastens her earrings “How could you possibly know that?””

“Because I know how hooligans act. You’re being courted by one as we speak!”

“Father, Alastor is not a hooligan. And you forget that is a certified celebrity. You can’t possibly know the type of club he will bring us to,”

He snickers “Ah yes, a certified celebrity that got help from one of my good friends,”

“Is that a problem?”

“I got to where I am on my own, he needed help from me,”

Vera looks around “Well, me,” she corrects him 

“Semantics darling. Are you wearing that?”

She dons a light pink fringe flapper dress “Indeed I am,”

He raises an eyebrow “Hmm,” he lifts his drink to his lips

“What?”

“Enjoy your night, I’m sure you’ll fit right in,” he says with a slight grimace.

Vera slid on her gloves, then her headpiece, making sure the feathers didn’t fall into her face, and took a look at herself in the mirror. She felt ready to dance.

Alastor insisted they take the trolley “Do you have this in New York?” 

Vera chuckles “We do, however, our family personally prefers to take the train. Or perhaps a car,”

“Well, I’ll show you something that New York City could never match,”

He brings her inside a small-looking building with a small number of people scattered at different tables and a bartender cleaning glasses behind the bar.

“Wow, you sure have New York beat,” she says sarcastically

He rolls his eyes at her, grabs her hand, and approaches the bartender. “Sir,” he calls out, the man looking up “Open sesame,” he tells him, knocking on the wood of the bar twice.

The man smiles “Welcome back Alastor,” and pulls on a rope, opening a door in the back of the building. Alastor leads her through the door and down the stairs, closing it behind them. At the bottom of those stairs was a lively party. A full band playing jazz music and people dancing like there’s no tomorrow, switching partners and swinging the fringe on their dresses so it looks like they’re about to fly.

On the stage, there’s a short blonde woman, chubby in body singing her heart out with the band. She was clearly comfortable on the stage as she danced around with no choreography. Her dress fits her body slimly and her hair stops at her shoulders. When Alastor walks in her eyes widen and her smile increases tenfold. She comes down from off the stage, strolling up to him with a confident smirk as she sings. She taps him on the chest and they share a knowing look as she climbs back on stage to complete her set with a big finish. The audience applauds for her and she soaks it up before approaching him again.

“Alastor!” she approaches with her arms open

“Mimzy!” he hugs her tightly with a squeeze 

Vera stands to the side, feeling quite awkward, not knowing how to introduce herself, or if she was even welcome to speak.

“Where have you been? Haven’t seen you in forever!”

“Oh Mimzy, it’s only been about..two months?”

She scoffs “Two months too long!”

He waves her off “Oh you!”

“I’m so glad you came to see me sing,” she bats her lashes

“I had no idea you were singing tonight!” he laughs

She smirks “Oh really? You know everything that goes on here, but not this? Yeah right, Al,” Al? She’d never heard anyone call him Al. “Well, come on! Don’t just stand there, you know you always have a seat reserved for you!” She pulls on his arm.

Vera reaches for him, and he glances back at her “Well, make that two seats. Have you met Vera?”

Mimzy finally acknowledges her. Vera waves slightly and Mimzy looks her up and down. “I don’t believe I have,” she spoke in her nasal voice

“This is Vera,” he gestures to her “We’ve just begun courting,”

She squints “Oh! I didn’t know you were seeing anyone,”

“Well, I’ve been keeping it hidden until now,”

“Could’ve told me Alastor! The line for you is out the door!” they laugh and Vera feels like an outsider. She now finally understood what her father meant earlier in the night.

“They’re here for you darling!”

Mimzy snorts “The ladies? Don’t flatter me! They’re always here for my ‘handsome friend,’” 

“Well, I am certainly handsome,”

“How charming are you?!” They start cackling together as they walk and Vera follows them. Vera quietly orders a drink and stirs it when it comes. “Come on! Let’s hit some shots then hit the floor!”

“Couple rounds on me!” Mimzy tells the bartender and they down them once they’re slid over. 

Mimzy dragged Alastor to the dance floor and cut a rug like nobody’s business. Vera sips her drink, knowing that she could never dance like that, or act like that, or be like that. Alastor had brought her to a place where she was an outsider and then left her alone.

When he stumbles back over he shouts to Mimzy “Let me take a break Mimzy! You’re hounding me like a dog!” He laughed and took a sip of another drink. “Having fun baby?” he looks towards her for the first time since Mimsy arrived

She shrugs, stirring her drink further “Sure,” she crosses her legs on the stool.

“Is something wrong?” he licks the whiskey off his bottom lip.

“No,” she lies, not looking at him

“You do know that I cannot read your mind, my dear,” he leans in closer

Her eyes dart away “I do. I am just fine. Everything’s jake,”

“Would you care to dance?”

She scoffs “Aren’t you dancing already? With Mimzy???” she says her name mockingly while she takes another sip of her drink

Alastor smirks hugely “Are you jealous?” he raises an eyebrow, clearly loving this

She blushes “No! I just… don’t like how close she is with you. When did you meet her?”

Alastor’s grin takes up his entire face “When you were gone, in New York City,”

“Oh,” her face drops, still not looking at him

“Have you not also made friends?”

She shrugs “Well my friends do not flirt with me!”

“Flirt? Who was flirting?”

“Her! And you!”

He slinks up behind her “I’m just being friendly…” he purrs in her ear

“Too friendly,” she looks away from him

“What would you like from me? Hmm?”

She sighs “I just want to make sure you still want me. Want to…marry me,”

He wraps his arms around her “Of course I want you, how could I not?”

“Are you sure?”

He nods “Can’t wait to slap on the ol’ handcuff,” he laughs while Vera seems less than pleased. He looks down at her “What’s eating you now dollface?”

She turns away from him in avoidance and he turns her chin back to him. She lowers her eyes and stirs her drink with a stirrer “I don’t like that,”

“Don’t like what?”

“I don’t like that people call the engagement ring ‘handcuff’,”

Alastor rolls his eyes, smiling “It’s just a saying baby,”

“No, it’s not. Not to me,”

He turns his whole body toward her, giving her his full attention “Why? What’s wrong with it?”

She furrows her brows “Calling it ‘handcuff’ makes it seem like getting engaged is like getting pinched. Like it’s so horrible to get engaged.” She jerks away from him “And I certainly don’t want a fiancé or a husband who does not want to be married to me,” she walks away from him

Alastor leaves the bar and comes up behind her, swiping her glass from her fingers and placing it on a table. He enveloped her with his arms, holding her close to his chest. He lowers his head, nudging into the crook of her neck, pulling a small smile out of her.

“I would be honored to marry you if you’ll still have me,” He sways their bodies back and forth

“Don’t push it, you haven’t even proposed yet,” she looks at him smirking

He smirks back “But you know I will,”

“I don’t think I do know, it’s been so long,”

Alastor bites her ear “I’m waiting for something special,”

She looks up at him “This isn’t special?” 

He just gives her a smug look without answering. She knew he had something devious up his sleeve. He always did.

Alastor took her by the hand and pulled her to the floor during a slower number.  He places her arms around his neck and his around her waist, pulling her so close to him that their chests touch. They sway back and forth to the sultry sounds of slow jazz as Vera moves her fingers to play with his loosely curled hair. She stares up at him as he tells her

“These are my favorite dances,” and she giggles “I’m so glad you’re here with me,”

“Really?”

“Of course, I love showing you off,” 

She giggles once more “Well, then I’m happy to be here,” 

He smiles warmly “I apologize for making you feel unseen. I just wanted to catch up with Momizy, but that’s no excuse for ignoring my intended,”

“I forgive you,” she hums as he spins her

“Lovely,” he kisses her neck, making her giggle further. 

Once the song ends he guides her back to her spot at the bar. He glances just past her and says

“I apologize, however, I need to make use of the facilities,” and he runs off to the john.

Vera sips her drink waiting for Alastor to return when Mimzy approaches her.

“Ya know, you don’t babysit the shot. You just drink it,” Vera stares at her confused “Too good for our drinks?”

“No, they’re just…very strong,”

Mimzy hums and examines her nails “Ya can’t handle a drink. Can you even handle being here…toots?”

“I am doing just fine,”

“I see that,” she says passive-aggressively “What’s with you and Al anyway huh? You a stray puppy?”

“Why are you calling him Al?”

“Because he’s my best friend,” Mimzy bats her lashes “Is there a problem?”

“Of course not, Just wondering. And he told you, we are courting,”

Mimzy looks her up and down “Right. Quite a dress you’ve got on,” the look is similar to her father’s “What trash can did you find that in?”

Vera squints “I had it made,”

“Yikes,” she grimaces then giggles

“Is there a reason for you being over here?”

She rolls her eyes “I just wanted to see…what my Al is ‘courting’, but I see you’re no threat,”

“No threat because there is no competition,”

“Right, ‘cuz I’m his best friend and you’re a nobody who wants to ride on a meal ticket,”

“Ha!” She stifles her laughter “Do you know who I am? I’m Vera Bates!” The blonde’s face reeks of confusion “Award-winning actress? Part of the Bates family of the Black elite? From New York? We’re something of an aristocracy there” She gives the blonde a faux humble smile “Ever heard of the ‘Harlem Renaissance’?”

“No,” Mimzy’s nasally voice responded

Vera leans down to speak to the shorter woman “Yeah, that’s ‘cuz we’re living in it. The bottom line is I do not need your friend’s money.” 

“Oh, so he wants you for your money. Haha, now it makes sense!” Mimzy soothes herself with this possible conclusion

Vera laughs again “I assure you, money has nothing to do with it. Do you know that he practically begged me to let him court me?” Vera smirks cockily “He simply came to me with his concerns about needing a wife, and I agreed to help him out.”

“But why would he ask you?”

“Why wouldn’t he? I’m rich, smart, talented, and beautiful!”

Mimzy scoffs “He could’ve asked me.” she mumbles under her breath

“Oh! Is that what this is about? Do you love him?”

Mimzy’s pale face turns red “Well, I wouldn’t say that-“

“Ah yes, I know about the trend of white women being interested in Black men these days, but I must remind you that it is in fact illegal.” she gives a smug grin “Besides, even if it wasn’t, he was quite clear that it had to be me.”

“You’re lying!”

Vera raises her eyebrows “Ask him,”

“I don’t have to do anything you say,” she huffs 

“Aww, is bunny scared? You were the big cheese a few moments ago,”

Mimzy scoffs and disappears back into the crowd.

“I apologize for taking so long my dear,”

Vera giggles “Did you have to drop a load in the john?” he laughs along with her. When they calm down, Vera notices his collar and reaches up to pull it. “What’s that?” she reaches and wipes off a small red stain. “This stain?”

Alastor widens his eyes “Oh that, well I just got a bit of a nosebleed while in the bathroom,”

“You know you’re meant to take your jacket off when you use the toilet?” she chuckles 

He waves her off “The quicker I get it all done, the quicker I can come back to you,” he steps towards her

She pulls back “Does that mean that your jacket has toilet germs on it?” she laughs

“Hmm? It might, do you want to check for me?” he teases her, coming closer

“Eugh!!” they both laugh together and Alastor takes a breath of relief

“Did you have fun with Mimzy?” 

“I don’t need you to mock me,” she rolls her eyes

He waves her off “But did you enjoy yourself tonight?”

She nods “I am a huge fan of the jazz music the band played. I loved it and all the dancing,”

“But?”

She smiles “I think Mimzy has a crush on you,”

“I know,”

“You know?”

“Yes, I am aware. We have had that discussion, and I’ve informed her that we are just friends,”

Vera smirks cockily “You may need to have it again,”

“I certainly will,”

She jokes “You plan to invite her to the wedding?”

“I don’t know, maybe,”

“Why didn’t you tell her ahead of time?”

“I thought she would take it better this way,”

She stares at him incredulously “Did you really?”

“Yes! She seems better at it on the spot,”

“Well, she knows now. She is not my competition,”

“She was never your competition”

Vera smirks “I know,”

______________________________________________

Vera began to wonder when it was that Alastor planned to propose to her. They’ve walked in the park, gone to fancy French restaurants, jazz concerts, and they’d even danced in the street. She’d been on his radio show many a time, and now she was wondering if he was ever really serious at all.

“So tell us again what the show is called,”

“The show is an original musical called The Moon and the Stars. I play a character called Sunshine,”

“And how are you feeling, now that the opening night is in a few days?”

She sighs happily “I honestly think it feels so surreal. It’s as if this is all a dream that I haven’t woken up from yet. I can’t believe that this opportunity is going to me, but I am eternally grateful for it,”

“Well, you deserve every moment of it. How do your castmates feel about you?”

“We’re all a big family, that’s how it is when you’re in a show. Everyone becomes your brothers and sisters,”

“Do you have a favorite?”

“Of the cast?”

“Or anyone,”

She flutters her lashes “Well, not to be sappy, but my favorite is you,”

“Oh stop,” he waves her off “You’re making me blush,”

“And just like a family would, my castmates are very interested in knowing when you plan to propose?”

Alastor leans back in his chair, bringing his mic with him “What did you tell me? Good things come to those who wait, my dear,”

Opening night was magic. Right before going onstage, she felt her nerves almost get the better of her. However, the moment she stepped out into those lights, it felt as though her body moved on its own, the lines, the songs, the dancing, her mind was no longer in control, it was her soul. She knew that this was what she was meant to do. Her entire family has front-row seats, as well as May and Alastor, as he’d promised. And when the show had ended she felt as though she’d just blinked and just like that it was over. Standing ovation and all. 

Sitting in her dressing room, staring at herself in the mirror she heard the door open.

“Knock knock!” said her father as he entered

She stands to greet her parent and little sister

“Congratulations!”

“You were so amazing!!”

She was so long lost in the whirlwind of love and praise from her family that she didn’t even notice Alastor walk in with a large bouquet for her until Brynn called out his name.

“Alastor?” she called

Vera turns away from her parents and runs to him, embracing him in a hug.

“Did you like it?”

“It was a masterpiece, my dear, you were immaculate,”

She blushes “Oh you,” she waves him off as she takes the bouquet and places it by her mirror. She hugs him, staring up into his eyes and he stares down into hers, when a bright flash goes off in their faces.

“Mr. Baudelaire, Miss Bates! When are you tying the knot?”

“Are you still planning on marrying??!”

Vera pulls away, pushing hair out of her eyes “I’m not sure. I guess that’s up to Mr. Baudelaire,” she laughs, hugging herself

“Well, it seems he’s already decided!” 

Vera seems confused “What?” she laughs and questions as the flashes go off over and over again. She takes a moment to stop and slowly turns around to see Alastor’s Chesire grin as he knelt on the ground on one knee. 

She covers her mouth and screams, the flashes going crazy behind them, but they don’t matter at all at this moment. Nothing but the two of them mattered when he slipped that ring on her finger, laughing at her reaction all the while. Hugging her stiff body while she stares at the ring in shock. The flash goes off over and over as he kisses her cheek.

Even Cassius is shocked and holds Brynn by her shoulders, but even he can’t find any fault with this beautiful moment.

Alastor whispers in her ear “This is something special,”

______________________________________________________

After the opening night, Vera decided to ditch the party and sit by the river with her new fiancé and watch the moon rise in the night sky. 

  “Wow, this truly is something special,” Vera says in hushed wonder “It’s so beautiful,”

“Not as beautiful as you,” Alastor chimes in

She playfully shoves him “Ugh you are such a dope.”

“Mhmm,” He agrees lying her down on the grass and climbing on top of her

“Alastor!” she whispers

“Hmm?” He says planting small kisses on her lips. She cannot resist these kisses.

She tries speaking between each kiss, “Alastor!” she manages to get out his name once more

“Yes..?” he goes down to her neck to let her speak

“I… uh, umm…” she tries to remember what she was going to say between moans of pleasure “What-w-what. Oh! What if someone sees?” She warns him

He lifts his head “We’re engaged now, what does it matter?” he goes back to kissing her neck

“Oh, umm…” she bites her lip “I guess you’re right.”

“You know I am baby,” he kisses her lips once more, trapping her in bliss under the beautiful night sky.

His hands travel up from her waist to the buttons of her blouse, undoing them expertly. 

“What are you doing?” she questions him

Alastor doesn’t answer, but slowly inserts his hand inside her blouse and under her bra, beginning to rub the sensitive nub in the center of her breast.

“Alastor!” She sits up, pulling her blouse together to cover herself “We are outside! In public!”

Alastor seems very hypnotized by lust “So?” he says shrugging, a constant lazy grin on his face

“Ugh!” she groans “So…I do not want to be caught with my tits out!”

“Like I said, we’re engaged,”

“That wouldn’t matter if my bubs were all on display for everyone to see!”

That grin does not waver “Not everyone, just me,” he leans forward, kissing her again and reaching back into her blouse

“Ugh!” she groans, slapping his hand away

He finally looks annoyed “If you can tell me that you seriously don’t like it, I will stop,”

Her eyes dart away from his face “I-“

“No,” he stops her “Look at me,”

She swallows some air “I….” 

Alastor raises his eyebrows in anticipation.

“Keep going,” she wraps her arms around him and his grin returns

“That’s” he drags his tongue up her neck at a snail’s pace “What I thought,” reaching inside her blouse once more to rub her hard nipples with his cool fingers, making them harden even more. “Mmmmm,” he hums, pulling her breast out of her shirt and placing it in his mouth

She gasps “Alastor!”

He turns his eyes up at her and drops her breast from his mouth “Baby, I know you love saying my name, and I do so love hearing it,” he flashes a smile “But you don’t have to pretend that you don’t like it. There’s no one around. I promise if you actually don’t like what I’m doing just say so. I will stop,” he kisses her nipple “All right?”

She stares up at him as she lies in the grass. His loose curls fall over his smooth warm beige skin. He was so beautiful, especially on top of her. She takes his glasses off and puts them to the side. “All right,” she smiles sheepishly as he removes hers. 

“Lovely,” he states trailing his thick, long tongue around the bud

“Uhhh,” Vera lets out a high-pitched whine as he flicks one bud with his tongue, and the other with his fingers, pulling the other breast out of her blouse. He starts sucking on the other breast, leaving the initial one exposed. The night air hits the saliva he left on her nipple, intensifying the cool feeling on it.

He switches back and forth between her breasts, then pulls them together to suck on them at the same time. 

“Fuck!” It slips out of Vera’s mouth before she realizes it. She blushes and covers her lips in embarrassment. Alastor moves her hand away. 

“Say it,” he growls “Say ‘fuck’ baby,”

“Fuck,” Vera moans as Alastor expertly twists her nipple in his thin fingers

“Say it again,” he commands

“Fuck!” She breathes out louder

“Now say my name,” he orders, pulling said nipple

“Alastor,” she breathes out “Fuck Alastor!”

He pulls her so she’s sitting upright on his lap, both of their cores aching under their clothes. His bulge is obvious, and her heat soaks through her panties and tights, wetting his trousers as they meet, blocked by barriers of decency.

Alastor pulls Vera forward onto his bulge, making her gasp. 

“What is that?” She asks him

He furrows his brows in concentration and smirks “You don’t know what that is?”

She blushes “I do,” she looks away, “I just didn’t know it could get…hard like that,”

“It’s for you,” he jokes 

She looks back quickly “What?”

“I’m supposed to use it on you, but that I’ll save for later,” he bites her neck, then her bare breasts hanging outside of her blouse.

“Oh,” her blush deepens “A wedding present?” she jokes

Alastor throws his head back, his cackling turns into him sucking in air and letting his jaw drop as he stares at his intended, filled to the brim with lust. He pulls her back on forth on top of his twitching bulge, running between her clothed lips, making her moan into the night sky. Alastor returns his mouth to her nipple, sucking like he expected milk to come out. Vera’s moans turn gravelly as she stares down, meeting his eyes as he looks up with her breast still inside of his mouth. She begins grinding against him on her own, holding onto his shoulders like handlebars. She hugged and pressed his face against her breast, obsessed with the feeling on his lips around her nipple, grinding faster according to the pleasure she was feeling. 

“Yes…” she growls into his ear as she holds his head

Alastor’s eyes widen, and he’s surprised by her reactions, expecting something a bit more prude, however, he then remembers the woman that he was marrying. Her prudish nature was simply a facade that he saw through immediately, a mask that she insisted on wearing, but he was attracted to the woman underneath. Vera sucks in some air, her eyes lidding as she stares down, not paying attention to anything but the man hanging onto her breast. She wants nothing else but him. 

“Yes…mmm…fuck, switch to the other one,” she orders him

Alastor’s cock jumps in his trousers hearing her take charge as he does what she tells him. Rocking her back and forth as she grinds onto him.

“Mmmm…yes!” she shuts her eyes, holding him as tight as possible as he juts up into her. The cool, night air does nothing to stop them as Alastor feels the tension rising in his cock and Vera feels the knot tightening in her core. She grinds into his bulge once more, slower this time, to feel every inch of his throbbing clothed cock, dragging her juices all over him in the process. At the same time Alastor thrusts up into her clothed core faster and faster, his trousers being wettened by the dewy grass and her clothed cunt, Alastor automatically knowing which one he liked better. They ride this pleasure out together as they both release, creating wet spots over their respective garments, all done within the light of the New Orleans moon.

She pulls him off her nipple and up to her face, hands on both sides of his head, she kisses him. 

“You….” Vera breathes heavily into Alastor’s mouth, their noses touching and his arms still holding her in place “Better go through with marrying me,” she threatens

“Oh I am,” he grins wickedly, staring up at her, and pulling her closer, giving her a lick on her neck that has them both grinning like crazy. They kiss as if they may never see each other again.

_______________________________________________

“What do we think indoor or outdoor?”

“I think indoors would be nice,”

“Flowers?”

“Azaleas of course,”

“And what about theme?”

“Why are you asking me everything this is his wedding too,”

Daphne grabs her daughter’s shoulder “Sweetheart, everyone knows that the wedding is all for the bride. The groom is just lucky to be marrying such a beautiful woman at all. So what do you want?”

Vera puts her finger to her lips “I want Alastor to help me plan it,”

“You don’t need Alastor, weddings are a woman’s event,”

She purses her lips “It’s a lot to do on my own,”

“That’s why you have me and Brynn. We’re women, here to help.” she puts her hands on her daughter’s shoulders “I remember my wedding, it was the most beautiful day of my life up until that point, and I had to do the planning all by myself because my mother hated that I was marrying up,” she pushes hair behind her ear

“Father didn’t help you at all?”

Daphne laughs “I told you, a wedding is a woman’s event,”

Vera looks off past her mother when Alastor comes into the room “Oh I apologize, is this a bad time?”

“Well Alastor, we are planning your wedding to my daughter,” Daphne says looking down

Vera smiles “Hi,” she waves

Alastor smiles softly “Hello my dear,” he holds up an envelope “I happened to catch the mail as I walked up. It’s for you my, sweet,”

Vera skips over to him “Oh! Thank you, how sweet,”

She opens the letter and reads it while Alastor comes up behind her and kisses her on the hair. He wraps his arms around her waist “What is it, my dear?”

“It’s a letter from the producers of The Moon and the Stars…we’re being transferred to Broadway,” she looks up

Daphne gasps and runs over prying her daughter out of Alastor’s arms, she screams in excitement, while Vera doesn’t know how to react.

“What’s all the hubbub?” Cassius enters the room

“Vera’s going to be on Broadway!!”

“Well we can calm down with the screeching Daphne, let’s keep our manners,”

Daphne calms herself “You’re right, my apologies,”

“But that is exciting. Great job sweetie!” he hugs his older daughter and Brynn hugs her as well

“What does that mean about the wedding?” Brynn asks, breaking the moment

Alastor runs his hand through his hair “I was wondering the same thing,”

Cassius has a huge smile on his face when he says “Well, I suppose we’ll have to cancel it!”

“Well, it could just be moved…”

“Nonsense! Weddings should not be rushed, no need to do all that work for it to turn out low quality am I right sweetie?” They all look over at Vera “Vera?”

She snaps out of her daze and says “The Broadway run would start after the wedding, but right after.” She looks up “Only about a week,”

“No time for a honeymoon!” Daphne comments

“Well, thank God for that!” 

Vera looks toward her fiancé “Alastor?”

“Normally I’d say your husband comes first, but this is my daughter’s dream! You wouldn’t get in the way of her dream, would you?” Cassius grins mischievously 

Vera stares up at Alastor, waiting for his response “I don’t understand why anything has to change. We can have the wedding and Vera can attend the Broadway run of the musical after,”

“But who knows how long I’ll be gone,” 

“True as well!”

“I’m willing to sacrifice the honeymoon for you my dear,”

“Really?” her eyes light up

He strokes her cheek “Anything for you, dearest,”

Vera looks down at the letter once more “Then it’s settled! I’m going to Broadway!”

“Huzzah!”

Brynn speaks up from the couch “Has anyone heard about the New Orleans killer?” she asks unwrapping some chocolate and popping it into her mouth

They turn to her “What?”

“The New Orleans killer, people have been talking about it for quite some time. Have you not read the papers lately?”

“I thought that was a myth if I am honest,” Vera tells her

Brynn shakes her head “No, he is real. And no one can guess his motives. He has killed men, women, elderly. No one knows where he will strike next,” she smirks

Daphne scoffs “That’s it, no more morning papers for you. You bring this up now of all moments?”

The younger sister raises her eyebrow “I suppose it’s my turn to give her the heebie-jeebies,” she smiles at her sister

“If there’s a killer on the loose, perhaps we should postpone the wedding” Vera looks around, worried

“Looks like someone getting cold feet,” Cassius jokes

“She is right about there being a killer,” Alastor defends, turning to her and grabbing her hands “Vera, don’t you worry about a thing. I will make sure nothing happens to you and no one hurts you. I guarantee it.”

“What about you?”

“I’ll be fine, my dear.”

“That’s what you think,” Brynn eats another chocolate and Daphne takes the can from her.

“This is so exciting I can’t believe this is happening! Thank you for being so understanding,”

“Of course! We made a deal!”

Vera’s face falls slightly “Right, our deal,” she quickly changes the subject “How are you going to feel finally living on your own?”

“Well, I won’t be lonely. I’ll have you… and of course my mother,”

Vera’s thoughts stop like a record scratch “I’m sorry?”

“You and my mother,”

“You mean that your mother will always be in your heart?”

“No..well of course she will. But, she’ll be with me,”

Vera shakes her head in disbelief “Pardon me but, we are to be married,”

“Yes?”

“Which means we will have to complete the marital act,”

Alastor smirks “We can do that,”

“And you plan to have your mother with us?”

He shrugs “In a separate room of course,”

She shakes her head again and scoffs “No,”

Alastor furrows his brows “So my mother has to be alone?”

“Alastor we are about to be a married couple, surely your mother understands that,”

“Of course, but I can’t have her alone,”

“Why not?”

“Because she will be alone. She does not have a husband like your mother, or any other children. She only has me,”

“Have you considered that maybe she wants to be alone?”

“Why would she want that?”

“Because she’s had to live with you your entire life,”

He steps toward her “I’ve helped her my entire life. Why does this peeve you so?”

She lowers her voice “I am not comfortable with the idea of doing, husband and wife things, while your mother is in the other room,”

“She can be down the hall,”

“Alastor this is ridiculous,”

He gestures with his hands “I know that your family has money to keep them company, but the only things my mother and I had were each other,”

Vera drops the objects in her hands “No no no no no! This will not stand!”

“What would you like my mother to do alone? What if she needs help and I am not there?”

“Your mother is a grown woman, why do you think her incapable?”

“My mother has no one, you always have. All she has is me,”

“That does not answer my question, why do you think her incapable?”

“It confuses me on why this is such an issue for you,”

She slams her hands down “It is not the life I dreamed of with you!”

He doesn’t respond for a while then speaks up “I understand. But do you understand why this is necessary?” “I do not. I cannot,” she storms out of the room

When Alastor returns home, he hears voices inside which is abnormal. He enters the kitchen to see his mother sitting at the table across from his fianceé.

“Hello Alastor,” Vera greeted him

He looks around “What is going on?”

“What is going on is that I decided to visit your mother. And being the amazing woman that she is, we decided to compromise on her living with us, only to find out, that she had not heard anything of the sort whatsoever. Is that not strange, my dear?”

His eyes dart around, face turning warm “I-“ he takes a step backward “That is quite strange,”

Vera turns to May, “What do you think about it May?”

“I think you two will have a lovely time, by yourselves,”

“I agree, do you not Alastor?”

His face falls, not responding. His fianceé approaches him 

“Alastor, we are going to be fine,” she lowers her voice, touching his chest

“Vera baby, let me talk to him,” May touches the small of her back

Vera looks back at the mother in slight confusion “All right,” she says, touching Alastor’s face “I will see you later,” she tells him and she exits the house

May steps closer to her son “Alastor, I know that for a long time we’ve only had each other, but you’re about to become a husband. You cannot have me by your side forever,”

“I know,” Alastor throws himself into his mother’s arms “I will miss you,”

“I know. I will miss you as well. But I will be all right, and so will you. I will be here for you whether we live together or not”

Alastor doesn’t respond, but the sound of small sobs is all May needs to hear to hug her son tighter.

When Vera arrives home, Brynn is sitting in the living room reading. She sits down next to her and undoes her shoes.

“What are you reading?”

“The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,” she says without looking up

Vera’s eyes widen “Really? You’re reading that by choice? I had to read it in school and it was oh so boring,”

“I find it quite interesting. I think it serves as a metaphor for the way women are treated in modern society,”

Vera thinks “How’s that?”

“Well, Dorothy was not believed despite having memories and proof of her adventures, just how women are not taken seriously in real life.”

Vera sits back and ponders her sister’s words. “Huh, you’re a real person,” she says

Brynn seems bewildered, she scoffs and laughs “Of course I am!”

“You don’t understand, I remember when you were just a baby. And all you knew how to say was mother and father. Now you have thoughts, opinions, and ideas.”

She shrugs “I grew up, and so did you,”

They sit in silence as Brynn continues to read.

“Do you want to know what I did today?” Vera asks, turning to her

“Sure,”

She props her chin up with her elbow “Well, today Alastor and I were discussing our house and he wanted his mother to live with us. I forbid it of course, and he couldn’t understand why it was so horrid of an idea. What I could not understand was why a grown man would want to live with his mother well into his 30s,”

Brynn doesn’t look up from the book “Well, it has only been just them two yes?”

“Yes?”

“Perhaps he will miss her?”

“Sure, but to do that?”

“I am sure he knows the idea is impractical, but surely he is speaking from emotion.” She puts the book down “Did you know that men can get emotional as well? I was flabbergasted when I heard of it. Father tried to shield me, but I heard it anyway.”

“Yes, it is something unknown to me,”

“Anyway aren’t you going to miss us?”

Vera thinks “I should not think so,”

Brynn blinks “I will miss you,”

“Pardon?”

“I will miss you. We will return to Harlem and you will be here. We will see you once a year at most. Hardly enough time to play,” 

“A lady does not play,” Vera speaks mockingly “Remember when Mother used to say that all the time?”

“And we would play anyway,” she puts down her book “Oh! Remember when Mother tried to convince us that sugar on top of a lemon was a delicious girl snack?”

Vera claps along with her laughter “Yes! And I took my allowance and we snuck out for ice cream?!”

They laugh together for a while until it fades into nothingness, Brynn leaning on her big sister’s shoulder. Vera realizes, in the silence

“We won’t be able to do that anymore,” Vera states monotonously

“Well perhaps not as often,” she hands her big sister a chocolate and unwraps one for herself

“Did you sneak these from mother’s room?”

Brynn nods “Yes,” and the sisters giggle together

As Vera eats the chocolate, she thinks some more, and the feeling she hadn’t understood finally clicks to her. “Then I suppose I will miss you,” she says, wrapping her arms around her little sister for the first time in a while.

“Okay,” Vera says sitting at Alastor’s kitchen table once more

“Vera? What are you-?”

“We may live in the next neighborhood over, where the houses are a bit bigger. I get more space, I get you to myself,” she walks up and puts her arms around his neck “You get to be near that hunting ground that you love so much, and you get to be near your mother.”

Alastor’s eyes widen 

“I understand now. She won’t live with us, but she will always be nearby if you want to see her.”

Alastor lowers his head and kisses his fianceé with the burning passion of a thousand suns.

__________________________________________________

Traditionally flower girls are very young, though Vera insisted on having her sister fill the role, as well as be a bridesmaid. And what a flower she made. Azaleas of every color all over purchased directly from the Fontenot garden, this wedding meant May could afford groceries for the next year. 

As for the actual wedding, Vera didn’t really remember, she knew she’d spent hours getting ready, including the time took to fit into her dress and do her makeup. She knew her father had walked her down the aisle and that Mimzy was in the audience. She knew the crowd grew quiet when she reached the altar, that the priest was saying something but she wasn’t focused on that. She mostly wanted to make sure she was standing right and that she didn’t pull her ears like she usually did when expected to stand still. She only came to attention when it came time for the vows, and that was when they had to look at each other.

"In the name of God, I, Alastor Fontenot take you, Vera Bates, to be my wife, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until we are parted by death. And even after that!” He grins as the audience laughs “This is my solemn vow”

"In the name of God, I, Vera Bates take you, Alastor Fontenot to be my husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until we are parted by death. This is my solemn vow"

Vera grins back at him, giggling “And even after that!” She adds on

“Do you take this woman to be your lawfully wedded wife,”

“Of course I do!”

“Do you take this man to be your lawfully wedded husband?”

Alastor raises his brow as if this were a real question, Vera giggles while stating

“Indeed, I do,”

“By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife, you may now kiss the bride,”

Alastor lifts the veil from her face and Vera instinctively looks away, blushing “Do not hide from me, my dear,” he turns her chin back to him, tilting it up and kissing her square on the lips as the crowd applauds.

And just like that she was Vera Fontenot, Alastor’s wife.

Vera wasn’t a party gal, but it was clear that Alastor was a party guy. She watched as he danced with everyone from his mom to her little sister, who she now thought was his little sister as well. He even danced with her mother, whose opinion of him definitely changed after she was taken on that whirlwind. Her husband really was quite the charmer. Vera on the other hand preferred to sit and only dance occasionally, but she let him have his fun. She thought about that word, husband. Alastor was now her husband, they were married and she was a wife. 

She was approached by a man that she knew through her father, one of the many men who had wanted to marry her before she entered her courtship with Alastor, James Richards was his name.

“Hello Vera,” he greeted her politely

“Hello James,” she responded, still enamored with her husband on the dance floor

“Funny seeing you here,”

“It is my wedding James,” she said

He nods “Ah yes, what a shame that is,”

She turns to him “Why is that?”

“Clearly your father set this marriage up between the two of you,”

She sits up “Actually my father was quite opposed, why did you assume it was arranged,”

“Because of the chemistry you and I so clearly share,”

“James, I did warn you to stay away from certain berries on your camping trips,” Camping was one of the big reasons she had turned him down amongst others

“I mean it Vera, we had something special, did we not?”

“We did not James, if we had, you would be the groom at this wedding would you not?”

He recoils at the venom in her words “Yes, instead you went screwy and married a mulatto,” 

Vera looks up at him, standing straight and backing up “Why would you say that?”

“I heard his father’s white and wants nothing to do with him or his mother, is that true?”

She scrunches her eyebrows “I don’t know what you’re talking about,”

“Oh come on! You have to know! You’re his wife!” he cackles “Right?!” 

Vera glances down at the glass in his hand, knowing that this situation could turn very dangerous for her very quickly “Please walk away James,”

“I don’t want to,”

She doesn’t look him in the eye “P-please,”

“I don’t want to!” he drops the glass on the ground, loud enough for the band to stop playing and the guests’ attention to turn to them. Cassius steps between her and James, while Alastor wraps his arms around Vera.

“There’s the mulatto himself ain’t he?” He cackles as he’s held back by Cassius and some of Vera’s cousins

Alastor’s arms wrap tightly around Vera and he makes eye contact with James, after which James smile drops instantly. Vera looks up to see the absolutely icy stare from her husband as James is dragged out. He looked down and asked, “Are you alright?”

“Yes, I am, just startled,”

He smiles “Well I know just the cure for that,” he holds out his hand for her to take and she does. He pulls her onto the dance floor for a nice slow dance, just was she loved.

“What?” She asks the man as he grins wildly 

“Oh nothing,” he says still looking down at her with a Cheshire grin that made her blush 

“Alastor,” she looks away, self-conscious under his piercing gaze. He turns her head back to him

“What are the odds that out of all the women in the world, I end up marrying the one star that shines brighter than me?” He raises his eyebrow, grin widening 

“Alastor! Oh my goodness!” He twirls her to the music “Ugh that smile!” She playfully hits his chest

“Get used to it be’be, because I will never stop smiling as long as you’re my wife,”

“Stop,” it’s almost too much for her to handle

He shakes his head “No,”

A house on the bayou is where they spent their wedding night and immediately were her husband’s hands on her.

She bites her lip “Yes baby,” she moans “touch me like that,”

“What do you want doll?”

“I want my husband to touch me,” she spoke, her eyes lidded

Alastor yanks off her gloves with his teeth and throws them to the side as she giggles 

“I want to feel my wife’s bare hands on my skin.”

“Why are you always trying to undress me?” She asked with a hint of teasing. 

“I’m dying to see what’s underneath,” he presses his lips together harder

“All of those interesting people you met in LA, right? Why would you want to be here with me?” He speaks into her neck while kissing it

Vera pushes him back to look at him “Alastor, are you jealous?” she looks quite confused

“No, I just-“

“Don’t be jealous baby,” her smile turns sultry “I’m here with you,” she pulls back down, catching his lips with hers “And I didn’t marry anyone in LA, I married you. You’re my husband, Besides, you’re a star” she whispers in his ear

“Mmm, my bèl.” he hums into her throat

When he goes to remove her tights she snaps her knees shut, he looks up at her confused

“I thought about something,”

Alastor sits back “Yes?”

“I don’t want to give you my body and then leave right after, you know? Maybe we should wait until I get back?” she offers

“Who knows when that will be?”

She pleads with him using her eyes.

“Alright, what would you like to do then?” he asked her

Vera blushes and chews her lip “Well, I can think of one thing, but you have to take your gloves off,”

Alastor rips his gloves off with his teeth, so eager at the chance to touch his wife, she giggles. Vera stands and turns her back to him

“Could you take this off me?” she looks at him over her shoulder

Alastor zooms to undo the fastenings and when the dress hits the floor, Vera turns to stare him in the eye, as she removes her shoes, her tights, and panties all in that order. She stares him in the eye as he sweats, her daring him with her eyes to look down at her bare cunt. She strolls over to him, removing his blazer, shirt, and tie. She takes the tie for herself.

“I would like to try something,” she bites her finger

“Anything,”

“I want to lay on the couch and you use your fingers on me,” she pulls out his tie “While pulling this around my neck at the same time,” she looks back up at him, “Is that okay?” 

Alastor nods quickly and clears off the couch and she giggles as she lays down,”

Vera places her left ankle on Alastor’s shoulder and her right by his torso, leaving her legs spread for him to enter. Her lips already glistening with slick. Alastor stares at her pussy in awe. Reverently he drags a finger from the bottom of her entrance to the tip of her clitoral hood. He does that again and again with his thumb, gathering enough slick before grabbing his tie that she’d tied around her own throat and pulling slightly, not a lot but enough to create a slight tightness. Alastor slips one finger inside of her cunt, very quickly and easily as she had already been warmed up. Vera moans, short and low, arching her back from the sensation of the finger opening and gracing her warm, wet walls. He pulls the finger out slowly and reenters it at the same speed, getting the same reaction from her. Cautiously, Alastor entered another finger, remembering that she had said ‘fingers’. Index and middle fingers drowning in her warm waters as she squeaked sweet little cries. She gripped his wrist, gasping

“Faster,”

Alastor pumps his index and middle finger at a quickening pace, using his thumb to rub her clitoris in small sweet circles. She pulls at his left hand to make him pull the tie tighter and he does, constricting her breath that much more. Alastor watches as his fingers disappear inside her wet cunt, hearing the delicious squelching made him slip another finger inside, eliciting louder and more guttural moans from Vera. Suddenly he had to contend with the tent in his pants just from seeing feeling her wetness and twitching pussy. Now he was thrusting with his entire hand, holding her clitoris like a button forcing out choked, helpless, filthy moans from her mouth.

“Alastor,” her breath barely allowed her to say

Faster his hand pumps so much so that the couch begins shaking. Alastor could feel himself reaching climax simply from watching her, how gorgeous she was, even covered in sweat. The twitching inside her pussy became much more intense as she grabs his left hand, displaying their wedding bands side by side, reminding him that she was his and his alone, this itself was enough to coax the wetness into his trousers

“Alastor, make me cum, make me-FUCK!”

“Yes baby yes,” he climbs on top of her his fingers continuing God’s work, “Who am I, baby? Who am I to you?”

“My husband! FUCK!!” just hearing that made him hard once again, the golden rings shining in the light 

Alastor kisses her throat and chest “I want you to cum for me,”

“I want to cum for you,” she holds on, squeezing his wrist “I-oh fuck!” she whispers 

“Just let go,” he coaxes her

“I-I-“

“Don’t think, just let it happen, baby. You can do it,”

Vera closes her eyes and pulls her lips in to focus, creaming all over his fingers in the next second with a hoarse, strangled, whine coming with it.

“Yes that’s it, baby, let it out. Oh, you’re such a good girl,”

Her body jerks before collapsing onto the couch. A blush rises up her neck when Alastor releases her, tasting her juices on his hand.

“Thank you,” she gasps out

“No, thank you,” Alastor licks off his fingers as Vera laughs

At dead of night, not very far from where the reception was held, James had sobered up and went out for a smoke, rethinking his actions at the wedding reception. He didn’t know that this would be his last smoke. He especially didn’t know that as he faced the river a knife would stab him from behind and be dragged up along his spine while he was still conscious. He had no clue that a boot would hit his back, knocking him to the ground, where he would get stomped and stabbed in the neck once for good measure. Good thing he didn’t have a wife or child to mourn him. And he had no clue that the person who did it would take his last few minutes of life to whisper in his ear.

“Price to pay for being right James,”

No, he had no clue. 

_______________________________________

“Everyone, I have some awful depressing news.” Vera heard Alastor’s voice on the radio from the car she rode in “You all know my wife, Miss Vera Bates? She is leaving me for New York City!”

The driver could tell she was listening and turned up the volume “Miss Bates just finished up a successful run of a brand new musical, titled The Moon and the Stars, fittingly enough, considering that’s what she is to me.”

Vera can’t stop herself from smiling and looks out the window to hide it. The driver can see her and smiles a little himself.

“The show was so successful, that it is making a transfer to Broadway! In which Miss Bates will reprise her role as the lead, Sunshine! And shall be staying there for an indefinite period of time, which means she won’t be here with me!” The driver glances back toward his passenger, smiling some more.  “Now I must say that I am happy for Miss Bates, but oh so sad for myself! I will miss you mon amour!”

The driver peeks one more time in the rearview mirror, seeing Vera biting her lip to keep from laughing “That Vera Bates is a lucky gal,” he says, his eyes returning to the road

“Yes.” Vera smiles wide “Indeed she is.”

[medusapelagia]

Seeds of Dreams, Seeds of Truth 11\11

Rating: Mature Relationship: Steve Harrington/Eddie Munson Tags: Alternate Universe - Medieval, Alternate Universe - Magic, Regent Prince/King Steve Harrington, Knight Eddie Munson, Prison, Sick Steve Harrington, Vomiting, Attempted Murder, Poisoning, Double povs, Panic Attacks, Magic,

And... it's... done! This is the last part of my @steddiesummerexchange fic written for @penny00dreadful! Sorry if it took forever and I hope you enjoyed it! I had SO much fun writing it! :)

Read it here or on AO3 - Now complete!

Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part 5, Part 6, Part 7, Part 8, Part 9, Part 10, Part 11

WC: 815

Epilogue

Steve is standing in front of the Sacred House.

Just a few steps and he will not be the Prince Regent but the King.

The official version is that King Richard died in his sleep after getting a disease that spread in the castle and killed many men. His last words were for his son; he asked for forgiveness and told him that he was proud of the man he had become.

Once more, Steve crosses the threshold, head bowed in submission to the old gods and the new, and a sling around his neck, ready to face the weight of the responsibility of being the new sovereign.

In front of him, there are two people: the old cleric that he had known since he was a child and a tall blond woman with a long black cloak and many crystals at her neck. They both give him their blessing, in the common tongue and in the old tongue, and then they offer him his regalia: the sword and the scepter.

The sword is not the long engraved blade it used to be. After the fight with Vecna only the hilt of the blade remained intact, but the wild iris shines brightly even in the dimmed light of the sacred house and Steve is pretty sure that it has something to do with Robin’s power. 

The cleric hums and then starts to pronounce the oath that Steve must take in front of their gods and their people, but Steve stops him and turns toward his people.

“Those oaths are old and they don’t represent us anymore. From today on we are a new Kingdom, with new rules, and new oaths. And I want to pronounce mine here, where everyone can hear me.” He declares, and Robin smiles proudly while the cleric stares at him aghast. “I solemnly promise and swear to govern all the people of our realm and treat them equally. I solemnly promise and swear to be a fair ruler and that I'll rule with my heart and my soul. I solemnly promise and swear to devote myself to the kingdom's well-being. The things which I have here before promised, I will perform and keep.”

***

“Nice words.” Robin says, finding Steve in the throne room. “Do you believe in them?”

“You know I do,” he confirms, without turning. Then he asks “You knew who he was, didn’t you? The monster that was hunting us down was the same hero we used to honor in our books.” Robin nods silently, “Why didn’t you tell me?”

“As I told you before, there’s power in names.” She explains, “You needed to find it out by yourself.”

Steve raises an eyebrow but doesn’t comment.

“Are you still sure about the kid?”

The king nods, and his golden crown shines in the clear morning light. “I talked to his mother, and she agreed to send him to study at your home if you’ll let her come too.”

The mage nods. “Will has great potential, but I think that Joyce could become a good healer in no time.”

“What about those who will come?”

“Magic is like a seed that blooms where she wants, and I love picking flowers.” The mage replies with a soft smile. “I’m sorry that you consumed your little seed to follow Vecna in the realm of dreams, but I’m glad you did.”

“You always knew you, didn’t you?”

“I have seen glimpses of you in the flames since you were a kid.” She confesses, “I didn't know who you were or how you were connected to me, but I always felt that you were a missing part of me. When I finally met you I knew. You’ve got my blood in your veins.” She says, brushing some hair away from his face. “I had an older sister once. She had no magic seed in her soul, but she was brave and loyal. She was pregnant when the purge started. I thought I lost her forever, but it seems I didn’t.” Robin kisses Steve’s cheek.

“If you ever need your help, send a robin in the woods with your message, and I’ll come.” Then she smirks. “But with a loyal guard like Eddie I think you are in very good hands.”

The king's personal guard is standing near the door in his polished armor with a hand on the hilt of his sword.

The mage gives Steve another benediction and then she turns into a bird and flies away.

“Did you know that?” Eddie asks, getting closer.

“That I had magic in my blood or that she could transform?”

“Both.”

“No. I didn’t know either. But there is one thing I know. It was a very long day and my personal guard should take care of me. In bed. Now.”

Eddie smiles and lifts his king with no effort, paying attention not to jostle him too much. The golden crown falls to the ground with a metal clang, but neither of them cares about it. All they want now it’s to discover their bodies again, and again and again.

tag list: @katyawriteswhump, @themagicalari

[enden-agolor]

i dont know when i hit 2k followers, but apparently i did. here's some petra's to celebrate

[non-un-topo]

All it takes is a wee little nightmare to make you too scared to step foot outside for fear of Bad Things happening, like it’s an omen lol

[swagging-back-to]

finally went and got my GED diploma a year after i graduated :)))))

[vegaseatsass]

I have to pry myself off the computer for real but tomorrow will someone please talk to me about Love Between Fairy & Devil now that I've finally watched it a year after the rest of the internet, and how Fairy Danyin is the best character, and Danyin/Changheng is the most lesbian (and/or gnc)/gay solidarity ship ever, and I am so stunned that they textually ended with Danyin admitting her original thing for Gods of War is that she wanted to become one herself - i.e. there was some "idk if I want to be him or be with him" to her Changheng pining - and with her demonstratively labeling Changheng her xiongdi???????? They are bros in every lifetime!! And should go on Chidi/Danyin Changheng/Ronghao double dates!!!

Someone please talk about this with me.... tomorrow.

[ramayantika]

Yes, I won't be there around you all the time. I won't be able to wipe your tears with my fingers all the time. I don't miss you as much as you do when we are apart. I roam the world, with dreams and aspirations as huge and as wide as the sky. They tell me you haven't been a good wife forget being a good lover but it is you I want to come back home to. I will not be home for months but I will send letters, ten pages long for every month with a small love poetry that will only make sense to you. When I win the world, I am a star for them, a performer and artist in their eyes, a nomad who roams around leaving pieces of their creation everywhere but it's you I choose to come back every time every night in the warm bed that you make. It's your lips that I seek to steal a kiss from and it's your embrace that would take away all the tiredness from my limbs.