#since the fic is from Kai’s POV we never really get to see that the others are impressed by Red we only see Kai being down on himself

[ninja-knox-ur-sox-off]

OMG I JUST FINISH WOBBLY HEARTS and it was so good! I can't count all the times I've cried because of your story and I'm so glad you didn't abandon it during that hiatus

I've been wondering about that since halfway through the book, does Kai have like "his thing"? Like Jay has ADHD and his thing is engineering/math/triangles so I imagine Kai could maybe have his thing too. I imagine as Jay pointed out he's lucky because his thing is something that's taught at school so I think Kai would have something that involved being street smart

But I really wanted to see Kai show others something amazing and super difficult that Kai never told others about because he thought it wasn't interesting or impressive at all. If you want to write something about it let me know or if not you can just say what Kai's thing is to make my little fan heart happy...?

BEING A NINJA

[anthropologyruinseverything]

New fic series! WWE Mafia AU

Welcome to what is essentially my dark romance, junk food series. I want to practice writing in the genre so here we go! Plz see CW warnings. There are 3 fulls stories and a 1 shot planned, I will be writing stories and one-shots as part of this universe as time goes on. As of right now Jey, Damian, Roman and Tama are in the works but I’d like to expound so hit me with recs!

(They may take time to write)

Now on with it.

18+ only from here plz - minors dni

Sea & Moon

Jey Uso x IndigenousFMC

Summary: Nokomis “Kiki” Levy was a normal twenty year old college student whose biggest concerns were passing chemistry and what graduate programs would want to see on an application.

Joshua “Jey” Fatu is thirty-one and has recently been appointed heir apparent of his father’s branch of their families shadowy enterprise and needs to prove himself up to the task.

Their worlds collide when Kiki’s father, a detective with SFPD, gets too close to Jey’s family business. While they start as enemies there is an undeniable burn between them. Will a much larger threat be their end or give them a chance to thrive together?

🚨It’ll be a dark journey for the Levy girls, please heed content warnings that include mild n0n-con between main characters, dubious consent, violence, mentions of difficult topics such as substance abuse, mental health issues and more. There will be various k!nks such as prim@l play, masks, captiv!ty, 🔪 play, ch0king, and more. The boys are morally grey to black but love and obsess over their ladies.

There is an HEA for everyone! I probably won’t post more than the prologues and one shots here on Tumblr and leave the really dark stuff on AO3. I will post links though and just drop a comment if you’d like to be tagged in any further updates.

## Prologue

**Nokomis “Kiki” POV**

⭐️*character note, Kiki has vitiligo which affects her face over her right eye, her hands and other other areas.

It was just supposed to be another regular movie night at home with my sister and cousin, nothing unusual or life altering. The same sort of thing we did almost every Saturday night since we could remember. I didn’t think twice when my folks decided on a last minute date night while we three girls piled onto the couch for comedies and popcorn, waving them off as if I’d see them in a few hours.

I wished I’d hugged them tighter and longer. As if that would have somehow stopped what happened next.

Not long after my parents had left my dad’s retired K9 partner Atlas started going insane, running back and forth to the back door and barking. I assumed he was interested in a rabbit or some other critter like a possum in the backyard so I hushed him and sent him to his crate for acting so crazy. In the long run I’d probably saved his life but I had still wished for his protection with what came next.

We never heard the back door locks being picked or footsteps in the kitchen. Between the movie, our laughter and the occasional dog bark nothing else penetrated our space and like most college students on a Saturday night our minds weren’t on the dangers lurking in the shadows. We didn’t know anything was wrong until Kai went to the kitchen for drinks and her scream alerted Kiri and me to our unwelcome visitors.

I’d never felt so stupid and slow as I did when the large men in masks appeared in the doorway, one with a particularly vicious face mask, long black hair and icy gray eyes held a long knife to Kai’s throat, clutching her tightly to his front with his other arm. Every time I ever swore to myself and my parents I would fight back went out the window when I realized it might actually cost my cousin her life. Instead I reached for Kiri’s hand as we stood frozen to the spot. Her light brown eyes were blown wide in fear and her normally tan face had gone ashen.

Everyone was quiet except for Atlas’s enraged barking.

The shortest man was still at least six feet tall and he wore a black mask with red spiral designs that covered his lower face. Withdrawing a gun from a shoulder holster he indicated the elderly german shepherd. “Shut it the fuck up.”

Instinctively Kieran and I both moved to stand between him and Atlas, her fingers digging into my hand tighter than ever before while her other came up in a placating gesture as I spoke. “Please don’t hurt him, he’s old and scared.” She turned to me with frightened eyes and indicated I should comfort him with a jerk of her chin. Dropping I tried to soothe him and at least got him to quiet down to a whimper.

The next thing I became aware of nearly made me lose control of my bladder. A harsh, cold metal gun barrel was pressed to the back of my head as Kiri’s hand was wrenched from mine.

“You girls gonna behave?”

I swallowed past the thick lump in my throat and nodded, hating that every inch of me was paralyzed. What happened to being an officer’s daughter who could stand her ground? All I could think about was that knife pressed to Kai, that gun leveled at the back of my head or at Atlas. If I didn’t behave they could be hurt or I could be killed. I risked glancing up at Kieran who was so still and quiet, being held by the largest of the three. His purple and black mask was monstrous like the tattoos on his exposed arms.

“Stand up slowly. Where’re your parents?” Out of habit when someone stared at me intensely I let my hair fall forward over my face even as I did what he said. His dark brown eyes looked black in the dim light of the living and the comedy kept playing in the background offering a ridiculous soundtrack to such a grave moment. Everything felt surreal in the flashing lights.

“N-not home.” My voice shook even as I tried to sound calm. “Our dad, he’s a cop, he’ll be back soon.” As if supplying that information would make him think twice.

The tall one chuckled, responding in a deep voice that fit his intimidating stature. “We know mija. He’s why we’re here.”

Kai’s whimper brought my attention back to her and the man holding her. He was far too interested in running his knife down her chest. “Hey! Stop it!”

Kai was two years younger than us and as such we’d always been protective of her. I realized what I’d done when those cold gray eyes flashed to me.

The man with black eyes didn’t hesitate, stepping in uncomfortably close to put the barrel under my chin. “Behave.”

“Okay. I’m sorry.” Survival mode engaged apparently. I realized we were truly fucked when he tugged his mask down to reveal an equally black beard but handsome face. “Leave a note D. We’re taking them and their old man can turn himself in when *we’re* ready.”

The last thing I remembered for a while was Kai crying out and a sharp prick in my neck before everything went black.

———

**Joshua “Jey” POV **

Catching the purple haired girl as she fell I moved to set her on the couch with the other two so they could be tied up. We’d come looking for Detective Levy and we were leaving with his twin daughters and their cousin. Not the worst all things considered but still not my plan and I didn’t like it when things didn’t go according to plan.

“You said he’d be here tonight D.”

Damian tugged his mask off with a shrug, accepting the roll of duct tape Roman had retrieved from his bag. He passed me one as well and we went to work taping the girls wrists, ankles and mouths.

“I’ll talk to J.D.” Unlike our family Damian ran a crew of people he’d collected with no ties aside from shared interests. It made them difficult to trust and easy to be angry with as far as I was concerned. I owed Damian my life, not them.

“Do that. Let’s get the fuck outta here.

Roman, you can mess with her later.” He was preoccupied with the pretty little woman he’d pounced on in the kitchen, running his hands up her thighs over her pajama pants. Instead of answering he just rolled those alarming eyes of his and threw her over his shoulder. I took a second to really assess the young woman in front of me. Her name was Nokomis, one of the detectives two daughters. College student majoring in biology and member of the chess club. Of course. What I hadn’t known about was her vitiligo and I found myself more interested than I should have been in the beautiful patterns on her skin. A particular blaze over her right eye was especially striking.

Shaking the thoughts loose I followed his example and so did Damian with his new charge. Our SUV was parked in the alley behind the house and it had been easy enough to blow out the lone street light a few days prior. We put our two in the third row while Roman climbed in the center with his prize. I felt a twinge of pity for her. Capturing his interest so intently was not an enviable thing for anyone.

I waited until Damian was pulling the car onto the street to speak. “Obviously this changes things.”

“No mierda Jey.” Damian’s irritation was obvious. He knew I hated it when jobs went wrong and I knew it irritated him as well. Not to mention bad intelligence was always followed by a period of mistrust and I knew J.D. was already on thin ice as it was. “You were serious about holding them?”

I looked back at the middle row to find my cousin petting the woman in his lap even as she seemed to struggle against him. It would have been funny if I didn’t know him. “Yeah. Can have some fun but don’t kill ‘em.” I looked pointedly at Roman.

“I don’t kill women Jey. Just…like to play rough.”

“Yeah with professionals, not college kids.”

“You sure that’s a good idea? She saw your face cabrón.” Damian cut in. He had a good point but I wasn’t worried. If I hadn’t thought through this possibility I may have been more stressed about the decision.

“Nah, when they see what we do to their old man they’ll be too scared to say shit and we’ve paid off or killed anyone else who could do shit about it anyway.”

He flexed his broad shoulders and stole a glance in the rear view as the other girls were coming to and shifting around in the far back seat. I wasn’t blind or dumb and while he wasn’t as obvious as Roman I could see he was interested in the little one he’d held onto.

“Could let off some steam.”

I smirked. It wouldn’t be hard to seduce them, a few drinks and some promises and they’d be pliant like most other females I dealt with on the regular. I’d be lying if said I wasn’t intrigued by the girl who stared at me in the rear view, her light brown eyes looking golden in passing streetlights. I could see the defiance in them.

Good. Maybe having to wait a few more days to end the cop who got too close and couldn’t be bought wouldn’t be so bad. Not with some pretty company.

[karatekels]

Hello:) first time with an ask. I have to preface by saying I absolutely love your account and your fics and just everything about what you've created ❤️❤️ may I ask, can you write something about CK Terry falling for a 30 something young woman in an adult class? She's learning and new to karate, yet Terry sees potential and asks if she'd like to grab dinner (or have his chef cook for them), then maybe "train" a little in his private dojo 😉

Thank you so much for your comments – they make my heart sing and make me blush horribly. I’m happy to write this for you – enjoy! ❤️

Shoutout to @terrysilv for helping me brainstorm some ideas for this!

---

Legacy

---

“Asa!” you cry out, the kiai escaping your lips in a short grunt as you lay into the punching bag with your fists and feet, the bag supported by your sparring partner. “Ya! Isa!”

“Okay okay!” your partner exclaims from behind the bag after awhile. “Jesus Y/N, you’re gonna knock me on my ass – can we take a break?”

Rolling your eyes, you step away from the bag, helping the man up before moving to your bag to get a drink of water. You were here to put the work in, and intended to do so the entire time, not wanting to waste even a minute.

You had been training with the Cobra Kai dojo for a few months now, and had gotten good; very good. You knew you were rather late to the game, starting to learn karate in your early thirties, but you were determined to prove yourself. You had quickly exceeded the introductory levels of the adult classes, and had worked your way up to the top of the expert class as well, having impressed the senseis of the dojo the whole way.

You didn’t like doing anything halfway – if you were going to learn karate, you were going to do it right, and not stop until you had perfected your skills.

The owner of the dojo, Sensei Terry Silver, walks past you, moving to snap at another pair of students whose form had gotten sloppy. That right there was another reason to do the best you could during these lessons; that man was likely twice your age, and incredibly fit, still able to instill fear in anyone he came across. You knew he was the best in the Valley, and you wanted to get to that level yourself. You wanted to be respected, you wanted to be able to take care of yourself, and karate was the perfect avenue to get you there.

Returning to your punching bag, your partner represses a sigh, bracing himself against the bag once more.

--- Terry’s POV ---

Terry glides past you, his feet silent on the training mats as he moves to scold a pair of students who were goofing off yet again. Really, how the majority of these people were accepted into the expert-level class baffled him. He’d need to talk to Kim at some point about her selection process.

There was, however, one student in particular that had been able to exceed his expectations…

He circles the dojo discreetly, positioning himself so that he could watch you, seeing you approach the punching bag for another round, fire in your eyes. Your form was perfect, and you were so graceful in your movements he found himself hypnotized.

You had been dedicated to your training since day one; he couldn’t think of anyone (other than himself, of course), who so fully encapsulated the 3 D’s: desire, devotion, discipline. He had taken notice of your beauty immediately, from the moment you entered the expert class, but had dismissed his attraction immediately. He didn’t sleep with students, and he didn’t date students, the work and romance spheres of his life remaining separate by his design.

He'd never had an issue abiding by that rule, until you’d shown up.

The better you got, the harder you trained, the more you wore down his resolve without you even realizing it. You had captivated him, and he couldn’t remember the last time he had fallen for anyone this hard. He had tried not to let his attraction for you interfere with his work – if you took offence and left, he would lose his only means of seeing you.

No, he had to play this perfectly, find an opportunity to test the waters with you, find out where you stood. Something away from here, away from everyone else, where he could turn on the charm and bring you around to his way of thinking. He was now a man past middle age; he didn’t have time to waste.

He’d have you eventually.

---

Terry waits until almost everyone else has left the dojo before approaching you. Yet another benefit to your dedication to karate: you were always the first to arrive and the last to leave. He lets you finish your cool down stretches, then walks over to you.

“Great work today, Y/N,” he compliments, savouring your pleased smile at his praise. You valued his approval; that was something, at least.

“Thank you, Sensei,” you reply, moving to retrieve your water. He follows smoothly behind you, not done with you yet.

“You’ve really improved during your time here,” he continues, determined to draw you into a conversation. “What’s driving you?”

You look over at him as you put your shoes and socks back on, considering the question. You were so contemplative, the type of person that thought things through, and he loved that about you. Everyone seemed so hasty these days, rushing headlong into situations without giving them thought, and it frustrated him to no end.

“I don’t like to do anything halfway,” you say after awhile. “If I’m going to do something, I want to do the best. I want to be the best,” you add, getting more passionate as you speak to him. He finds himself transfixed.

“I see the respect that you command around here, and I’m not a big tall guy like you, and I may never be a sensei, but that’s something I want,” you confess, looking up at him with that same fire in your eyes.

You were envious of him? You looked up to him? He could work with that.

“How do I become the best, Sensei Silver? What can I do next?”

Terry thinks about how to play this. Part of him did truly want to help you succeed; Cobra Kai was his legacy, and you were now not just part of that, but one of his shining stars. The greedy, primal part of him wants to promise you the best training money could buy if you would only become his. He settles for something in the middle.

“This dojo is really meant to cater to a group, and the lowest common denominator, even in the expert class. I don’t know if you can get the full attention that you deserve…” he begins, hesitating briefly, as though considering something, but he’s already finalized the plan in his mind.

“If you’d like, I could offer you private lessons at my personal dojo, where I could focus solely on you,” he offers, ever the generous benefactor. As if you weren’t already the centre of his attention every time you walked into the same room as him. Your eyes go wide, shining with delight at the thought.

“Wow, that would be incredible,” you breathe, and he feels his cock stir against his thigh at your excitement. While your interest wasn’t out of desire for him, it was about spending time alone with him, and that was enough to have his mind racing. Picturing you coming to his home with him had him nearly giddy.

“I just don’t think I could afford private lessons, Sensei Silver…” you say, and he resists the urge to scoff. Screw the money. This was about you, getting you, having you alone… but he had to be careful. You were fiercely independent, and proud, and while he admired and respected those traits in you he also knew to be wary of upsetting them.

“I would be happy to charge the same rate as you’re currently paying for the expert class,” he offers. “The success of my students is my main objective here with Cobra Kai. You are easily one of our best, and have clearly outgrown the expert class.”

“Are you sure?” you ask, clearly not wanting to take advantage of him, and he bites his tongue to keep from beaming at the thought.

“It would be an honour, Y/N.”

The grateful smile you level him with has his heart pounding in his chest. Were you really so oblivious about the effect that you had on him, on everyone in any room you were in?

“Thank you, Sensei. I won’t let you down.” He plans on taking that promise to its absolute limit.

“One stipulation, Y/N, if you don’t mind,” he presses, giving you a slight smile. You cock your head at him, waiting, though he gets the sense that you’ll accommodate anything he asks for.

“Allow me to speak with you once beforehand, to get a better sense of your goals and to develop a training regimen. Perhaps over dinner?”

Christ, when was the last time he had felt nervous about anything?

You blink, seemingly speechless. Terry thinks he detects the faintest hint of a blush on your cheeks, but doesn’t want to give himself too much credit.

“You want to take me to dinner?” you ask, tone slightly incredulous.

“I could ask my personal chef to cook us a meal. It would give you a chance to see the dojo before we get started.” He pointedly doesn’t address your shock at him asking you out, hoping to subtly reframe the evening as a purely professional one; he can’t have you getting cold feet, not now. He just had to get you there, get you alone, and he could win you over. The thought of training you in a dozen other things before you even get started on karate dances through his mind, and he suppresses a groan. It wouldn’t do to lose focus now; you always kept him on his toes.

“Could…could I go home and change first?” you ask, looking down at your gi. It’s strange, seeing this more hesitant, shy side of you, but he finds that he enjoys it just as much as your typical fierce attitude. And, more importantly, this wasn’t a no.

“Of course. I can have a driver pick you up in a few hours – my home is rather difficult to find if you don’t know where to look.” He knows he’s laying it on thick with the show of wealth, but he can’t contain his excitement; if he has his way, he’ll be spoiling you for the rest of his life and beyond.

“Oh, that’s… wow, alright. I guess being the best student has its perks, huh?” you joke, and he smiles encouragingly at you. You scribble down your address – as if he didn’t already know it – on a piece of paper and hand it to him.

“I’ll see you in a few hours, then?” you say hesitantly, and he’s fully enjoying your nerves, now.

“I’ll see you then, Y/N,” he replies, trying to keep the purr from his voice. You give him a shy smile as you throw your bag over your shoulder, exiting the dojo and missing the pleased grin he directs at the back of your head. Having watched you leave, Terry immediately moves to collect his own things and head home.

There was much to prepare for.

--- Reader’s POV ---

The car finally breaks through the treeline after what feels like ages, driving smoothly up to a gorgeous estate. You knew that Mr. Silver was very well-off, but to live in a place like this… then again, he was offering to train you in his private dojo, so perhaps this shouldn’t be so surprising to you.

Looking down at your hands, twisting around themselves in your lap, you hope that you’ve dressed appropriately for the evening. What, exactly, was one meant to wear to a private dinner at your sensei’s gigantic house to discuss karate? You had settled on a simple summer dress, the green complimenting your hair and skin tone wonderfully, and a pair of wedges, keeping your hair down in loose waves and your makeup simple.

The driver stops the car – having a driver, that was strange for you as well – and you nervously hop out before he can come around and open your door for you. You weren’t the Queen of England, you could get out of a vehicle on your own. He guides you up to the front door, ringing the bell, then nods to you and turns to, presumably, go park the car.

“Thank you!” you call after him, not wanting to be rude, and then you hear the door open behind you. Turning, you see an older woman at the door, smiling warmly at you.

“Ah, Miss L/N. Please come in, and I’ll take you to Mr. Silv –”

“No need, Janet, thank you. I’ll take it from here.”

Mr. Silver approaches from a room off to the left, looking decidedly more relaxed in a pair of tan slacks, a white button-up shirt and a royal blue blazer, his hair out of its signature ponytail and framing his face. You hadn’t thought it was possible for someone to appear so at home in a place as luxurious as this, but he does, and you’re happy for him. Hopefully, these private lessons from him would help you become even half as successful as your sensei.

“Welcome to my home, Y/N. I’m glad you could make it,” he greets you warmly, and you smile at him. You would not ruin this opportunity for yourself, even if you were a bit nervous about how to behave in this situation.

“Thank you, sensei, and thank you again for sending someone to pick me up,” you reply graciously.

“Sensei is reserved for training, Y/N. Please, call me Terry outside of the dojo.”

You nod your head in acknowledgement, hoping to keep things straight in your head. You didn’t often have relationships with people that transcended more than one social circle; it complicated things, made them messy as the lines blurred. You didn’t think that that would happen with Terry – he was on such a different level from you in every way – but you wanted to be aware of the possibility.

“Thank you, Terry. It’s so… strange, seeing you outside of the dojo.” You want to acknowledge the difference in the setting, but think that you may have come across a bit standoffish, and try to recover. “I’m so used to the ponytail,” you joke, gesturing to his hair, and his lips twitch in amusement.

“Yes, well it doesn’t get in the way when I’m just relaxing at home. You look lovely,” he compliments, approaching you with his hands in his pockets. “I’ve just spoken with the chef, and we have a half hour before dinner. Would you like to see the dojo now, or can I offer you a drink?”

You pause to consider this, worrying your lower lip between your teeth. You didn’t want to refuse his hospitality and make it seem like you were only here for the training he would offer you by wanting to get right into the dojo, and perhaps a drink or two would help you loosen up…

“A drink would be lovely, Terry, thank you.” He smiles, gesturing down the hall with an arm, and you follow him, taking in each new room with a sense of wonder. It was all warm, comfortable, relaxed… not at all what you would have expected from viewing just the exterior of the house.

Eventually, he leads you into a parlour with a collection of liquor bottles, one wall made completely of glass, looking out onto a large balcony and the gardens below. Smiling at the dwindling sunlight streaming in through the windows, you find yourself briefly distracted.

“Wine?” Terry asks, having selected a bottle of red. You nod to him, and he seems to take a long moment to look at you before pouring two glasses. Bringing both with him, he hands you a glass, which you accept gratefully, thanking him quietly.

“Come on, I’ll show you outside,” he says, a knowing tone in his voice. He was so good at reading people, anticipating their thoughts and actions; you supposed it was a necessary skill to have, both for teaching and for karate. You smile, and follow him to the door leading out to the balcony, walking up to the balustrade to get a full view of gardens below. They were massive, seeming to stretch out forever, and were so lush and full. You sigh longingly as you take in the view.

“You get to come home to this every day?” you ask, awe evident in your tone. “It’s incredible!”

“It’s refreshing to see someone appreciate it,” Terry replies, coming to stand beside you. “I think I’ve come to take it for granted.”

“I don’t think I could ever get used to this…” you murmur. Terry is quiet, seeming content to let you take in your surroundings, the two of you drinking your wine in a comfortable silence. After awhile, a member of the staff finds the pair of you out on the balcony to inform you that dinner is ready. Following him through more spacious rooms of the home with Terry, you find yourself feeling far more comfortable than you had when you had first arrived, and couldn’t attribute it all to the wine.

--- Terry’s POV ---

The evening had been very successful so far, Terry thinks to himself as he surveys you from across the table. He can’t remember the last time he’s shared a meal with someone in his own home when it wasn’t for some business matter or another, and he finds that he has missed it.

He had been awestruck upon first seeing you at his front door; having never seen you in anything other than your gi, you were particularly striking in your soft green dress, your hair flowing down your back. You had been clearly nervous at first – hell, he couldn’t judge you for it; he was nervous himself – but had adjusted quickly, and he found himself impressed by your tenacity.

The look on your face as you had taken in sight of the garden, the sunlight illuminating you, had briefly taken his breath away. You were radiant even without the sun’s glow, but in that moment you had looked so serene he had been positively enchanted by you. He hadn’t planned on taking you outside, but he couldn’t resist giving you exactly what you wanted. He could see that happening a lot with you, should things progress the way he intended for them to.

You had opened up more once you had moved inside, telling him about yourself and asking about him in return. Ordinarily, Terry was rather cautious – if not outright reluctant – to divulge personal information about himself, but he found it easy to open up to you.

Having asked you further about your motivations to study karate, you had become more animated in your responses, speaking about your desire to make something of yourself, and to leave a lasting mark on the world. Again, Terry finds himself recognizing the similarities between you, especially in how you saw the world and your respective places in it, and he finds himself in a difficult position.

What would be the greater legacy for him to leave behind: training you to be the best and being your mentor, or pursuing a relationship with you that would, if he had his way, last as long as you both should live? He finds himself wrestling with complicated feelings, wholly unaccustomed to trying to prioritize someone’s hopes and dreams over his own.

But he had sacrificed before; he could do it again, and being your mentor would most assuredly connect your names together in history. There was something beautiful, poetic even, about that, and it eliminated the possibility of rejection, of failure. Terry decides to shift his goals again; he’s put love on the backburner his entire life, and he can do it again, at least until he’s cemented himself as a keystone to your success. He would have something that tied the two of you together, at least, and perhaps that would be enough.

He can’t help but take in the way your eyes glimmer in the candlelight with a slight smile, ignoring the slight clenching of his heart. Let him do something good and selfless for once in his miserable life.

You both finish your meal, and he offers to show you the dojo, the excited smile you give him making him ache in a way he hadn’t experienced.

--- Reader’s POV ---

After several months of intensive training, you truly felt like you were on top of the world. You felt almost as tall as Terry, your confidence having reached new heights. Terry had been incredible, working with you as often and as hard as he had, like your success was intrinsically tied to his own. You had appreciated everything he had done, and was doing for you more than you could ever say.

Having finished your session for the day, you both step off the mat, moving to get water and take a brief rest before you went home for the day.

“So, what’s next, Terry?” you ask, always excited to learn more. Terry doesn’t respond, and after a moment you look over to him seated on the bench, radiating tension.

“You know, Y/N, I’m not sure if I have anything more to teach you,” he replies, his large body caved inward slightly, like he’s being crushed by some heavy weight. You had learned to read him somewhat in your time together, and think he’s disappointed.

“I’m sure that’s not true, Terry. I don’t think it’s possible for you to run out of knowledge,” you say, smiling encouragingly, but he scowls.

“Well, I have. This is over,” he says firmly, harshly. Some of his hair has come out of his ponytail, and he’s got a frustrated, defeated energy radiating off of him that you’re not sure what to make of.

You bite your lip, debating what to do. While you had definitely become more comfortable around Terry during this time together, you wouldn’t exactly call yourself his friend. What were the boundaries of this relationship after all of this? Should you give him space or offer to listen? Throwing caution to the wind, you decide on the latter.

“Will you tell me what’s really wrong?” you ask softly, sliding closer to him on the bench, trying to coax the truth out of him. He barks out a humourless laugh, throwing his head back, before he levels you with a serious, almost cold expression.

“It’s you.”

“I…what?” you ask, confused and hurt, and he seems to burst, leaping off the bench to his feet and whirling around to face you.

“It’s you!” he repeats, getting louder, and you’re not sure which emotions you detect in his voice, only that there are many of them and that they all seem to be entangled within one another.

“I am an old man, Y/N. I am old, and I am alone. I’d come to terms with that years ago, really I had,” he rambles, words flowing quickly from his lips without much thought. He was never like this; he was like you, looking before he leaped. What had happened?

“And then you walk into my dojo, and it’s like I’m seeing the sun rise for the first time.”

You stiffen, your eyes going wide, but he’s not even looking at you right now, pacing up and down the edge of the training mats like a caged animal.

“I thought I could be professional. I thought I could be your teacher, your mentor, and that that would be enough. Then, I thought up a dozen ways to try to win you over, to sweep you off your feet, to make you see… I’ve gone back and forth so many times, and every time you’ve done nothing but draw me in deeper. I’m trying to do what’s right, harder than I’ve ever bothered to try before, and now that’s it!” He turns suddenly to look at you, his eyes wide and searching, though for what you’re not sure.

“I’ve taught you everything I could, and now there’s nothing for you here anymore. Nothing to keep you here with me.”

He looks broken, and you’re stunned into silence by his revelation. Terry had feelings for you? The very idea seemed ridiculous. He was older, wealthy, successful, talented… you had never bothered to even consider him in that way; what would be the point, since it would never be reciprocated? Thinking about it now, though…

You had admired him from the moment you met him, respecting his dedication to his craft and his students. He had shown such wisdom in the dojo, and had fascinated you with his stories and experience. Over the past few months, you had become so comfortable with each other, and you had gotten to see his humour, his kind heart, his passion… And even you had recognized from the very beginning that he was incredibly attractive, especially for a man of his age, but again, you had pushed that kind of thinking out of your mind the second you accepted that it wouldn’t do anything for you but get you distracted.

He had been supportive, generous, shared his life and his home with you, and you had come to cherish the connection you had together. What was that if not love?

Looking over at him, where he had retaken his seat on the bench, slumped in a defeated position, it’s like you’re seeing him with fresh eyes. This man had loved you, presumably for quite awhile, and instead of acting on it had been nothing but professional, putting you and your needs above his own without you even realizing it. He had sacrificed so much, and even now was only upset that he had nothing else to offer? What a ludicrous notion. He had become your everything.

Getting up off the bench, you move silently to walk around in front of him, bending to his eye level. He doesn’t even seem to notice that you’re there, his eyes closed in defeat with his head in his hands, and now you feel like the idiot for not recognizing your own feelings sooner.

Tilting your head, you lean closer to him, pressing your lips to his softly.

He doesn’t respond for a moment, staying perfectly still, and you pull back a bit, looking at his face. His eyes flutter open, and he looks at you, confused.

“Why would you do that?” he demands, his voice low and hoarse. You nibble your lip nervously.

“To apologize, for not recognizing your feelings,” you say, and you think you see the light leave his eyes, pain evident on his features.

“And for not recognizing my own,” you add in a whisper. His gaze snaps back to yours, intense once more.

“What…?” is all he manages to get out in a choked voice.

“I never thought you would see me in that way, Terry, so I didn’t bother letting myself see you like that either. We’re from two different worlds, you could have anyone you wanted –”

“Not anyone,” he corrects pointedly, and you take a deep breath.

“Yes,” you counter, reaching out to take one of his hands in your own. “Anyone.”

He seems to freeze again, his eyes staring past you into the distance, into nothing, and you wait, knowing he needs a moment. Sure enough, his eyes soon snap back to yours, and he slowly stands up, closing the space between you with his large body so close to yours. He reaches up slowly, as though he doesn’t want to startle you, taking your face gently in both of his large, warm hands.

“You want me?” he whispers incredulously, stroking your cheek with his thumb. You swallow.

“I can’t believe I didn’t see it until now… Yes, Ter –”

Your confession is cut off suddenly as he pulls your face none-too-gently up to his, kissing you with a fierce joy that takes your breath away. His arms wrap around you, one at your waist and one around your upper back, hand tangled in your hair. You gasp into his mouth, hands coming up to clutch the top of his gi, pulling him down to you, overwhelmed by the desire that courses through you.

You could kick yourself for how stupid you’d been these past few months, wasting all this time together, but that would mean you would have to stop kissing him, and you’d already spent more than enough time doing that.

He is the one to break the kiss first, his blue eyes dark as he looks at you in his arms with thinly veiled wonder, and you feel your knees go weak. No one had ever looked at you like this before; you hadn’t thought that anyone ever would. You smile up at him shyly, your heart pounding in your chest. You can’t remember ever feeling this happy, this complete, standing in his arms.

“I adore you, Y/N,” he admits reverently, resting his forehead on yours. Tears spring to your eyes at his words, and he wipes them away gently with his thumb before you even realize they’re there. You let out a breathless laugh, hardly able to believe your ears, your heart singing.

“I love you, Terry,” you reply, and the smile that he gives you in return nearly brings tears to your eyes again. He scoops you up into his arms, sitting on the bench with you on his lap, kissing you soundly. You wrap your arms around his neck, toying with his hair, toes curling in delight. Gradually, you move to shift in his lap, straddling him, never breaking your kiss. His hands come around your hips, and you feel something primal course through you as you feel him getting hard against you.

He leans back from you, breaking the kiss again reluctantly, almost shyly.

“We don’t have to do this now, or here,” he tells you, considerate and gentlemanly as always, and you grin at him.

“It seems oddly appropriate though, doesn’t it?” you reply coyly, gazing at him with lust in your eyes. “And you’ve waited long enough, haven’t you, sensei?”

His eyes go nearly black in desire and he growls at you, taking your gi in his hands and somehow shredding the clothes off of you in his haste to get at you. You may have poked the bear a bit too much with that comment, you think to yourself as he tears your bra from your body, leaving you in only your underwear on his lap.

“I think I have more to teach you after all, my dear,” he purrs, his mouth closing around one of your nipples and making you moan, digging your nails into his scalp and clutching him to your chest.

“Please, Terry, show me everything,” you beg desperately, throwing your head back as he toys with you.

“Oh, I intend to,” he promises, picking you up and turning to deposit you on the bench, taking off his own gi. You find yourself licking your lips as he pushes his pants past his hips, whimpering as his cock is bared to you. Fuck, this man was gorgeous.

Trembling slightly, you come to stand on the bench, now almost the same height as him as you push your underwear down your legs. His arms come around you, hands gripping your butt firmly, and your knees nearly buckle, but he’s there, he’s everywhere, supporting your weight with his body.

You pull his hair out of its ponytail, tangling your fingers in it as you tug him closer to you.

“Take me, Terry. I need you,” you ask him breathlessly, staring into his eyes, reading the love in them and hoping that your own eyes reflect the same growing devotion.

Not hesitating, he takes you in his arms once more, your legs coming around his waist like they were always meant to be there, and he carries you over to the wall of the dojo, bracing you against it before gently lowering you onto his cock. You whimper as he enters you, and his eyes roll back in his head as he sheathes himself fully in your tight, wet heat.

“Oh God, Terry!” you groan, feeling so deliciously full of him, your nails digging into his back. Supporting you with his hands around your butt, he sets a slow pace of lifting you up off his cock before dropping you back down again. Slow and rough, it’s perfect, and you can’t get enough, burying your face in the crook of his neck as you moan.

“Fuck, you’re perfect, Y/N. I knew you would be,” he croons in your ear, and you’re again stunned as you recognize how long this man has desired you.

“Made for you, Terry, only you!” you cry out, lifting your head to capture your lips with his own again as you grind your hips against him, feeling deliciously sinful. The pace of his thrusts increases, as though he’s urgently needing to make you his, but you meant what you said. This man was it for you; there would be nobody else.

“Yesss,” he hisses against your lips. “My woman, my everything.” You both tighten your grip on one another at his words, like you’re wanting to claim the other even more. Your orgasms hit you at the same time, and you both cry out the other’s name in your ecstasy, your pace slowing until you’re both just wrapped up in one another. You realize you’re crying again, and he kisses your tears away as they fall.

Reluctantly, he lowers you to the ground, but keeps his arms wrapped around you, unwilling to let you go completely, and you share the sentiment, nuzzling into his chest.

“You have given me everything, my treasure,” he murmurs against your hair, kissing the top of your head, and you tilt your head up to look at him, still teary-eyed.

“So have you,” you admit with complete sincerity, and he smiles at you, stepping away to retrieve your clothes.

“Oh, you have no idea what I’ve got in store for you. We’ve only gotten started,” he promises, handing your underwear to you. He pulls the pants of his gi back on, but holds his top in his hands, taking in the scattered scraps of fabric that were your gi. Smiling at you, he approaches, wrapping his top around you and tying it to you, big enough on you to look like a full robe.

He ties the obi around your waist, taking in the kana on either end that read Sensei Silver. It seemed appropriate. He takes your hand and looks you over, hair mussed, face flushed, smiling brightly at him as you wore his gi, and feels like the luckiest man in the world.

“Come with me, my dear,” he purrs, leading you to the exit of the dojo. “We’ve got some planning to do.”

---

[therealgchu]

To the Shore - Chapter 10 An Interlude

keeping with my friday publishing schedule, go me!

fluffy, warm chapter incoming! no trauma, no angst, and a little bit of spice. and, i get to show off some of my cryptography knowledge, which is a minor hobby of mine.

Chapter 10 - An Interlude

If you want to read the whole fic from the beginning, it's up on ao3.

the sneak peek is from Cora's POV. a little different this time, but she was a lot of fun to write. thanks to the coemancer crew for help with getting the dialogue of a 12 year old right.

Everyone ready for a sneak peek?

 Through most of the lunch, she was silent and listened to the adults. Cora brought along a couple books, like she always did, and pretended to read at the table. She’d found out years ago that if she was quiet and acted like she was reading, the adults forgot that she was there and the conversations got much more interesting. Well, at least that applied to most adults, including her dad. Cora had long ago noticed that there was no difference in the way Hwa talked to her or any other person, which was nice.

“...first time you ran into Ranger Pryce?” Dad asked Hwa. Ranger Pryce was always nice to her the few times she’d met him, but he was really different when they were on Neon. She didn’t like how he talked to Dad. Her ears perked up.

Hwa sat back in her chair, thinking, “Let’s see, three, maybe five years ago, I think? One of the few times the Rangers made a move on the Syndicate.”

Syndicate? As in Seokguh Syndicate? The one Mom was taking down? Cora became as still and silent as the grave with her ears wide open. Dad would certainly not want her to hear this. She sunk deeper into her chair and hid behind her book.

“The Rangers raided the Ebbside warehouse,” Hwa explained. “I had just happened to be checking in when I walked in on the raid. You know what Pryce is like,“ and she made a dismissive snort, “he’s suspicious of everyone that’s not related to a Ryujin executive. Probably projecting his own incompetence on everyone else.”

Her dad nodded, “Nepotism do be like that,” he said.

“Anyway, he took me in, questioned me. Since it seemed like I was just a random person that walked in on the raid, they let me go.” She took a sip of her drink, shaking her head. “If he was half as clever as he thought, he’d have done a more thorough job. Everyone knows that’s Syndicate territory; civilians don’t just walk into that warehouse. But, well, he’s not.” Hwa reached across and grabbed one of Dad’s fries. “How did you meet him?”

“Pryce trained Lillian. I think he got the promotion to Neon about seven years ago?” her dad said. “He’s always hated me. He was there when Lillian and I met. He wanted to throw my ass in jail. It was Lillian that made the call to jettison the cargo.”

Cora held her breath and tried to make herself invisible. This was the most she’d ever heard about how her parents met. She’d heard off-hand comments her grandpa made about when her parents met, but never the whole story. Jettison cargo? she wondered.

“I got the distinct impression that he is jealous of you,” Hwa said.

“What tipped you off, the ‘pretty boy’ remark?” her dad asked snarkily.

“Amongst other things,” Hwa said.

“Yeah, Pryce always hated me. I think he was after Lillian even when we first met.” He sat back in his chair and rubbed his beard. “Come to think of it, he always gave me a hard time about being a Coe, and how the name wasn’t worth it. More projecting?”

Hwa nodded. “I’ve worked with a lot of the scions of Neon society. They say the Syndicate are monsters, but it’s those families that are controlling a lot of what goes on. If Ryujin or Bayu wanted the Syndicate gone, they could easily. They’d just have to starve them for money.”

“I’ve always wondered about that. How much of the Syndicate sucks at the teat of the corpos on Neon?”

“I haven’t studied the books in depth, but I know it’s a lot.”

It was just at that moment when Kay came up to check on them. “Would you like dessert?” Kay asked Cora specifically. Usually she loved dessert, but cursed its existence at the moment since it reminded her Dad that she was sitting there. He looked at her, and she could see the back of his neck getting red. She could tell he was trying to decide if he said anything too inappropriate. Dang it, he probably won’t say anything anymore today, she thought. She made a mental note to ask Grandpa about Dad meeting Mom.

Cora watched a quick glance happen between her dad and Hwa, and saw him shake his head almost imperceptibly. He probably thought she was too young to hear about the crime on Neon, or how her parents met. She wanted to roll her eyes so badly at him, but stopped herself in the nick of time. He’d see that, because of course he’d see, and get annoyed at her. He didn’t see that she was TWELVE already, but he’d see her roll her eyes.

Instead, she consoled herself with some ice cream.

[away-ward]

Hi, i dont know if youve mentioned this before, but out of all the couples in DN, why is willemmy your fav? I love willemmy too and i love your fics, especially No Apologies and Hell Yeah. In fact, i found you from ao3 actually, but i only found out through your tumblr account here that there's a part 4 to No Apologies and then read the rest. Hope you day was amazing!

Hey! I really didn't think anyone would find me from ao3. I thought it would always happen in reverse, but it's good to know that my fics are reaching people that way too. Hell Yeah was my first willemmy, so I have a special soft spot for it. Really happy that others like it as well.

I have answered your question in another post, but it was a longer response and a bit towards the bottom. Basically, willemmy hit a lot of my favorite tropes and I feel that their past scenes are the most... romantic? There's just so many moments that make my heart bleed for these two. In fact, I didn't even like the present scenes at first and was joking with a friend that I was going to find a way to get just the past scenes on a pdf so that I didn't have to deal with skipping around. That's all I wanted. Eventually, I developed an... I'm not sure "appreciation" is the right word, but a tolerance the other parts of the book and the series as a whole.

For others who are interested, I read the whole series last year...

I started with corrupt from the library (before KU made it against their policy... this becomes important later), and really enjoyed the past scenes there. I like friendships and in fiction and heist stories (and a little mystery and a little crime), and the guys sort of pranking the town felt similar in a way, just lower stakes. I really liked Thunder Bay, which felt like it had a life and personality all it's own. The mystery of who set them to prison was... well, I questioned why Rika didn't seem to know why they were angry which tipped me off early that she wasn't the one who did it but I never predicted what the twist was. I really liked the gazebo scene. Will's determination to burn it was interesting, as was the conversation between Rika and Michael about the little nerd he loved. It made me want to peek behind the current of his mind a little to see what was going on in there.

As far as the horsemen, in corrupt, my favorite was Kai. He seemed intelligent and mysterious, which I really like in a character. I went into Hideaway eagerly, but was a little disappointed with how much he complained about stuff. And I liked Banks well enough, but I wasn't as interested in the mystery of the pope or their past scenes. But I like them together and they seem like a good match, which was fine.

I wasn't interested in reading about Damon and Winter, and their book was a bit of a drag for me. I felt bad for Damon and what he went through, but I also understood Winter's anger. For the most part, I thought Damon's healing... felt a bit rushed. I understand that a lot is probably going on behind the scenes now that we're not in his POV, but he seemed to bounce back really quickly from angry little gremlin dude to suave bad boy with a dark past (I liked the little gremlin dude. he was fun). I didn't like that Winter's love healed him. Why do we put that on female characters? I really didn't like that Rika and Damon were related. But Gabriel died and that was cool, I guess. Damon deserved that victory, in the very least.

Up to this point, I kept expecting we'd get even more hints about Will's past love. He's the last, so it had to be good right? Worth waiting for? Since a year goes by between each book, and with Conclave we learned that Will's been gone longer than a year, so with all that time, Will's reason for being angry with this girl was going to need to be good... right??? But the build up in the other books was nonexistent. The hints were so nonexistent that I actually read past Hideaway's the first time and had to go back to Kill Switch to understand that 'oh... it's about Emory. Got it.' I had lost a lot of interest and almost didn't care about Will at all. Plus, his reactions and way of interacting with the other girls was beginning to be a huge turn off. Who cares if he loves the little nerd, I'm so bored with this guy, was my feeling. In addition to all of that, it had been removed from my library's ebook catalogue. The audiobook was still there and I gave it a shot, but it was a quick no-go for me. I'm not one for audiobooks, anyway.

I threw my hands up and was ready to walk away. The series had bored me, the friendships weren't developed in a way that I would have liked. I saw the potential there and could push through a lot of my own HCs about how things were supposed to be, but I wanted a free way to spend my time with low effort. Enjoying this series was becoming a lot of work.

Around this time, tumblr was also pushing their 2 months of kindle unlimited ad. And it took me about one month of wondering about the little nerd to finally buy in.

It took me another four months to finally get angry enough to write Hell Yeah and then create this blog. The rest is history.

So you'll notice that most of my writings are an attempt to answer or fill in problems or holes I saw in their story.

Hell Yeah was an attempt to see how Emory would eventually work into the group, and recover for the truly stupid things said to her by these people before that. I understand she forgave them. But did they apologize?????

See You Around was my way of guess how they first met. I was super mad that we got a flashback to when Michael was three so we can see how he met Rika - a girl he literally knew since she was born. Did we need to see it? I guess, to understand his anger with Trevor, it was necessary (no it wasn't. We got it. At least I did.) We saw Banks and Kai meet in the confession booth and we saw Damon and Winter as children in the fountain.

What did we get for Willemmy? I loved her since I was fourteen and saw her through a fence. - not a direct quote. But I was mad.

It grew from there.

Anyway, I'm really happy that the fics are filling voids for others as well, and that I get to have these kinds of discussions with people. At least out of the grief this series as caused me, we found something to enjoy.

Sorry for babbling. But thanks for the question. And I did have a really good day on the day you asked. I hope you're having a wonderful day too!

[impala1967dwinchester]

Sam Winchester: Thoughts

*Credit to the gif owner* 

Pairing: Sam W. x reader 

Pov: Sam 

Warnings: Fluff, Sam can hear the readers thoughts, Sam falling in love with the reader, Dean is here to help the plot

Summary: Sam gets cursed after the Dean, Y/n, and Sam hunt a witch. The next morning when he wakes up all he can hear is Y/n thoughts, and he’s slowly start to fall in love with her. 

A/N: Using @firefly-graphics Sam Winchester divider for this fic. This fic is sorta based on "What women want" with Mel Gibson. A good ol' Romantic Comedy.

Word Count: 2.3k

Main Masterlist Sams Masterlist 

Taglist: @sweetdetectivequeen​

A witch hunt couldn't possibly go wrong, right? Especially with the Winchester boys.

"Look lady, sit down before I shoot," Dean shouted, causing Y/n to flinch. Just enough of a flinch that I would be having a conversation with Dean later about no yelling so much.

The witch sat down, but what nobody noticed she was casting a spell under her breath. Dean, Y/n, and I had huddled together trying to figure out what we were going to ask this damn witch.

My back facing the witch. Dean looking over my shoulder looking angrily at the lady. Y/n had her game face on. She sometimes followed us around like lost puppies, but damn was she a fucking awesome hunter.

Sometimes better than Dean and I put together.

When I say that she followed us around like lost puppies I mean she never said what she thought. Dean or I would come up with a plan and she never put input in. Just kinda did what she was told. Reminds me of a younger version of Dean and myself.

Working our asses off for John, all for it to be for nothing. A good little soldier and that was all we were to him.

In the end, Dean just ended up letting the witch go since she hadn't any information. We all pilled back into the impala for the drive back to the bunker.

Y/n fell asleep in the back seat curled into a ball and looking rather peaceful. "Y'know I was thinking lover boy that maybe she could stay permanently with us," Dean said referring to Y/n in the backseat.

I just rolled my eyes before turning to look out the window. The drive was shortened by the fact that at one point my eyes were open and scanning the passing environment.

And the next minute I was dreaming a nice dream. I had a family a beautiful wife standing on our front patio, and watching our daughter and I play with our puppy.

It was nice, it was peaceful. But when I was looking around my dream, I noticed that every face was blank. Well, there goes the normal dream.

The shaking of my body woke me up. "Yo, wake up. Get your shit and go the bed." Dean said, pushing me closer to the passenger side door.

Stumbling out, I walked groggily to the back of the impala and grabbed my bags. Slinging them over my shoulder, I saw Dean try to pull Y/n from the back.

"Sweetheart, we made it home." Dean whispering. His hands falling underneath her knees, carefully picking her up out of the impala. "Open the door would Ya, instead of just standing and staring," Dean said still whispering.

I ran over to the door opening it. "Dude get some sleep, I'll get Y/n settled in, kay," Dean said passing me. Shrugging my shoulders and yawning as I walked to my room.

Stripping down to my boxers I collapsed into bed, loving the coolness of my sheets. Within minutes of my head hitting the pillow, I was out like a light.

Dreaming wasn't something that always happened for me, not since I first started hunting with Dean. But those weren't dreams those were more like nightmares, of people that I couldn't save.

I fell back into the same dream as before, still no faces. But the woman I assumed was my wife as a familiar voice, our daughter was what seemed like she was tops five or six.

Cute little thing, long brown hair like my own, wearing a cute sundress that was blue with green flowers printed on it. ' Dear, are you guys ready for dinner?' the woman asked me. I tried to not stare at the fact that she had no face, so I just hummed. Picking up our daughter.

'Tank you for playing with me daddy!' my daughter said to me bringing her small hands and arms and hugging me around my neck. Besides having no faces everything else seemed normal, my wife's voice seemed all too familiar and it was honestly getting at me. Before I was able to ask her something I was pulled from my dreams.

Waking up was a bitch. My neck was sore, and so were my shoulders. Deciding that today I wouldn't take that mile run, I opted for staying in bed just a bit longer this morning.

Finally getting up when I smelled coffee being made in the kitchen. Grabbing a pair of sweats that were laying around, I slipped my slippers on and went to go get some coffee.

The first thing I saw when I walked in was Dean dancing along to his horrible 70s and 80s rock. Flipping pancakes and sizzling bacon. 'God, why'd he choose no shirt this morning' "Huh? Did you say something Y/n?" I asked her, looking at her for the first time since last night.

She had her hair up in a messy bun, wearing a flannel of Dean, and a baggy pair of shorts. "No, I didn't say anything, Sam," Y/n said pushing her glasses up the bridge of her nose, continuing reading her book.

Okay Sam you have to admit that was odd and kinda creepy. Not that I mind being complimented, but still weird. "You gonna get your cup of coffee or just stand there looking like an idiot!" I heard Dean crack.

"No," I answered back grabbing a coffee cup that was next to the machine. 'Jeez Dean way to be an asshole towards Sam.' There it was again Y/n voice.

Turning around rather quickly which only hurt my neck even more. "Did you just say that?" I asked panic starting to overtake my body and instincts. y/n looked over at Dean, causing Dean to look over at me.

"Dude what are you going on about?" He asked me... eyes big I just waved his question off, "Never mind I think I must have hit my head last night." I said just wanting my morning coffee more than anything.

The rest of the morning went by fine. No hearing Y/n voice, but then again, she wasn't around for the rest of the morning. "I'm heading out to the shops; I need a new pair of jeans. If either one of you wanna head out with me that's fine too. If not that's okay too guys." Y/n said mostly talking and looking at me.

'Please come out with me Sammy' I heard. Ignore it, rolling my eyes before speaking again. "No, it's okay. Dean?" I spoke. "Nah, I'm fine dear. But thanks." Dean said using his signature wink.

As Y/n walked away I heard her voice again, 'Jesus Dean, stop with the nicknames, and the winking. Obviously, it's not working.' That was the last I heard the sentence.

Dean wants to be with Y/n. I don't, I can't see that going very well, Dean sees Y/n more as a sister than anything else. What does that mean it's not working?

Hours later Y/n came into the bunker carrying a few bags. "I thought you only needed a pair of jeans, Y/n?" Dean snarked. "I did, but you guys were running out of some things, so I grabbed some other shit." Y/n countered.

Well, I can't deny that Dean and Y/n do have a certain chemistry, one that she and I just don't have. "what did you get?" I asked moving the conversation along. "I umm... I got you guys some t-shirts, some more socks, and just something fun for both of you." She said shyly.

"That's great, thank you. Did you have an okay time?" I asked, 'No, Sam I didn't that's why I wanted you to go with me. So many gross old men hit on me.' I heard Y/n's face was only scrunched up for a few seconds.

"Yeah, I had a perfectly fine time. Really did enjoy the alone time." Y/n said winking at us. Dean just rolled his eyes and jumped up to go through the bags, but Y/n swatted his hands away.

Digging into the bag she pulled out pie for Dean and he took off with it like he was a squirrel. Y/n looked back over to me and then started to look through the other bags. "Here Sam. I didn't know if you already had this book, but I thought why not." She said, shrugging her shoulder in a cute sort of way.

"Here for a gift return, a Winchester hug, yeah?" I said laughing a little bit. "I don't see why not, I heard that they're hard to come by," Y/n said back rounding the table in an effort to get on a very one-sided hug.

I hadn't realized until recently how much shorter Y/n was compared to me. I could fully rest my chin on her head. 'God I could use this more often' I squeezed her in my arms. 'God, he smells so great' I heard again, she nuzzled her face into my chest. 'He gives much better hugs than Dean.' I heard.

Y/n was the one to let go of the hug, not me. I was starting to realize that it was in fact Y/n I was hearing just not the words coming out of her mouth, it was her thoughts.

That night I convinced Dean that I could make dinner. For the time I was at college and dating Jessica I had learned some good enough cooking skills. "Fine whatever you do just don't ruin my pans and pots!" Dean screamed from his bedroom as I walked away.

That night I cooked a shrimp alfredo, and chicken alfredo with noodles. Something simple but it was mostly all the food that we had left in the bunker kitchen.

"Dinners ready you two!" I hollered from the library, Dean running from the garage, and on the other side of me was Y/n walking down the hallway. 'Look at him, damn chiefs' apron' I looked down and saw that the apron said "kiss the cook" Damn Dean.

'I'd definitely kiss that cook.' I heard as she walked past me. I just followed her with my gaze, mouth slightly open. Hoping that it wouldn't fall straight to the floor.

"Well dig in. It won't kill you, Dean." Y/n said. Dean just put his hands up in defense it's not like he had said anything but we all know he was thinking it instead.

Dinner went by quickly, few words from any of us, and not many thoughts passing through Y/n's mind. Besides 'Damn, he's got skills, 'So much better than Dean would ever do' I snorted when I heard that thought. Dean looked over at me, "What's so funny Samuel?" He spoke.

I rolled my eyes, "It's Sam, Samuel sounds like an old fashion name" I said. "Nothing is wrong Dean." I finished. 'If nobody thought you guys were brothers, they should spend at least a few hours with you.' I heard.

"Can we not fight at the dinner table, please Dean," I asked. I was trying to lean into what Y/n was saying, or more thinking. By the end of dinner Dean had eaten another serving and was now on his second piece of apple pie and a glass of hard crown apple whiskey the Y/n had bought earlier that day.

"Good night you two love birds. Tweet tweet. I'm heading to bed." Dean said kissing Y/n's temple, and patting my shoulder he walked out of the library.

"I'm sorry about him, Y/n. He doesn't have a sensor." I said apologizing for my older brother. Y/n got up waving him off and grabbed the leftover dishware.

I followed behind her grabbing what she couldn't. "He's fine. He should know better, but he's okay Sammy." Y/n said. Not many people called me Sammy besides Dean and Y/n, but it always seemed sweeter coming out of her mouth.

Y/n started to wash dishes. "Can I ask you a question Y/n?" She hummed, so I continued on. "Why do you never say anything while we are on a hunt. You don't always have to follow out stupid ideas...." I said noticing that Y/n had now turned around and was facing me.

"Look I didn't mean it like that. I'm just saying that I'd like to know what you're thinking for a while. especially when we are on a hunt. Your opinions matter to me. I hope you know that." I said, crossing my arms across my chest.

'Shut up would Ya'. You don't know how much that means to me.' "I know that you can hear what I'm thinking." Well, that went south very quickly and my stupid facial expression doesn't help the situation. "How long have you known?" I asked.... We stood in silence beside the water in the sink running. "Since before dinner when I was thinking about kissing the amazing chef that made dinner. Because I would still kiss the chef." Y/n said. setting the plate down on the kitchen island.

'Do you want me to kiss you, Samuel?' She said in her thought. I hummed. Shaking my head, licking my lips in anticipation. 'Words Sammy Dear.' She thought. "Just come over here. If this is what happens when I can hear your thoughts, I may be okay with being cursed by a witch ever so often." I said before our lips crashed together.

Our kiss was short-lived when Y/n left mine. "What are you talking about the witch from last night's hunt?" I shook my head. "We need to go get that witch, kill her, get her to remove the curse. Whatever, because as much as it's cute somethings a girl wants to keep to herself." Y/n said, coming back up to my lips and pecking them.

"You're gonna be the death of me," I said, before following her over to the sink to help wash dishes. I think I might have fallen in love with you Y/n. I thought.

"Hey... I heard that." Y/n said. I rolled my eyes, "No you didn't." Confusion replaced Y/ns soft features. "Okay, what did I say then, Y/n?" I asked. "I think I might have fallen in love with you Y/n" Y/n answered.

"Damn it. We really gotta find that witch, Samuel." Y/n said.

Completed on: 04/11/2021

[hargrieve]

hargrieve’s fic recs — october

another month, another time period during which I forgot to read the many many sure-to-be-amazing haikyuu!! recs that I’ve gotten in my inbox over the past few months. someone come shake me and remind me of my roots please.

re the txt fic recs: I am a taegyuist, could you tell? genuinely not sorry about the taehyun-centric fics. am actively looking for more canon compliant or college au taegyu. please i am begging

thank you again for bearing with me as I hop from fandom to fandom! I know that the vast majority of people who follow this series of posts are haikyuu fans; I have not forsaken you yet. get ready for lots of rarepair recs in the coming months, since the rarepair exchange deadline is coming up mid-december :D

@ravenclawboys hello :3

FANDOMS: Haikyuu!!, Tomorrow x Together, You

haikyuu!!:

imposter syndrome by ely_su

ennoshita-centric + ennoshita/futakuchi close friendship (qpr?); rated T+; 11k words; 1/1; ennoshita pov

aromantic and asexual ennoshita figuring things out and coming out. canon compliant

this fic feels quite healing, and the ending was really emotionally satisfying

aro ace pride!!!!

Lost in Translation by rageprufrock

iwaoi; rated T+; 9.6k words; 1/1; iwaizumi pov

iwaizumi as a college student in california; oikawa in argentina

this fic is chock-full of delightful OCs, all of whom exhibit some kind of californian stereotype. ft our beloved iwa being iwa, ie emotionally dense log

as a california native who went to college in california, this was, like, so accurate

do not be put off by the lack of ao3 tags by this author; I can vouch that the fic was EXCELLENT

secrets from a girl-adjacent by minibobas

yachi-centric; rated G; 2k words; 1/1; yachi pov

yachi on growing up and figuring out her gender and sexuality

very touching, and I am sure this story resonates with a lot of people

go go nonbinary lesbians

tomorrow x together:

can you feel the rush by permutative (predebut)

beomgyu/taehyun; rated T+; 23k words; 3/3; taehyun pov

college au in which inexperienced taehyun asks known flirt beomgyu to teach him how to date

truly a college au to the core, from the extended friend groups to the library studying to the singing telegrams on valentine’s day. author is very talented and made me reminisce about college

lots of discussion about math. psets. integrals. Real Anal(ysis). I do not miss u-substitution

taehyun, when someone who is infamously flirtatious takes lots of time out of their schedule to teach you how to date, maybe it means something. did you ever think about that taehyun

dragonfruit by honeysigh

beomgyu/taehyun; rated T+; 10k words; 1/1; taehyun pov

college au in which whipped taehyun agrees to be vice president of beomgyu’s animal crossing club

no, like, taehyun is Down Terrible and beomgyu totally deserves it. writer writes them adorable. as they should

completely unironically, my favorite thing is when writers write background huening kai with a real personality. please. it is what our boy deserves

but i never stopped thinking about you, not even a day by trinitarias

beomgyu-centric; rated T+; 3.4k words; 1/1; beomgyu pov

canon divergent character study where beomgyu does not debut with tomorrox x together

moments of him with each of the band members, afterward

as a beomgyu kinnie: this is pain. like in a beautiful way, but. PAIN

stoplight! go, go by newaches (jsnoopy)

beomgyu/taehyun; rated T+; 2.9k words; 1/1; taehyun pov

canon compliant, where taehyun asks beomgyu to teach him how to kiss and we see all the complications that follow. remix of another fic from beomgyu’s pov

“But as much as he prides himself on his intelligence, no one ever warned him that a pretty boy’s mouth can make you go dumb.”

i’m shaking them by the shoulders. why don’t you just talk about your feelings huh. what are you suffering for

this one is also pain

you (tv series):

what a waste to say the heart could feel apart (or feel complete, baby) by zoeyclarke

love quinn-centric; rated G; 1.5k words; 1/1; love pov

the after-effects of the end of season 3 episode 10

pretty convinced that this is one of the best, if not the best, fic in the teeny tiny “you” fandom on ao3

recs I received in my inbox:

fixation by red_racer

sakuatsu; rated T+; 41k words; 5/5; atsumu pov

summary: “Atsumu develops a fixation on Sakusa Kiyoomi in high school but it’s just a phase, right? // In which Atsumu makes every excuse to hang out with Sakusa and against all odds, Sakusa lets him.”

perihelion by vastlight

atsuhina; rated T+; 23k words; 1/1

summary: “Atsumu sees him at sixteen, seventeen, twenty-two, twenty-five, compounded into one incredible monster of a being, compounded into one Hinata Shouyou. // Lessons in closing the distance of admiration.”

my twitter

past fic recs

send me a rec!

[kairoscelrosis]

Ocean Eyes - A Leonard “Bones” McCoy x Reader Fic

Series: Star Trek TOS

Pairings: Leonard “Bones” McCoy x Reader, Implied Spirk

Characters: Reader, Leonard “Bones” McCoy, James T Kirk, Spock, Montgomery Scotty, Nyota Uhura

Trigger Warnings: No triggers apply. 

Word Count: 5,202 words

Author’s Note:

This is my first fic! It has a small amount of fluff, but its mainly full of a plot revolving around the two mentioned relationships. 

You can also find this fic on Wattpad. 

Summary:

Y/N is confused about her feelings for Dr. McCoy. When Spock and Kirk come to know, they devise a fantabulous plan to bring both of them together. 

I was lying down on my bed in a darkened room. Thoughts wandered, but always stopped on one thing. Rather, on one person. It’s weird. I had always liked him a lot – platonically, of course. This was different. “What the hell?”, I said out loud. But that didn’t help the storm raging in my mind. My alarm beeped. 1530 hours. “Damn.” I huffed, got changed, and left for the Bridge. My eight-hour shift was about to begin.

______________________________________________________________

On the bridge

“Captain.”, I said in a confident, but tired voice. “Lieutenant Y/L/N reporting for Beta Shift.”

“Yes, Lieutenant.” Kirk replied without looking towards me. “Please report to Mr. Spock for this shift’s agenda. You will be taking over from him for the Beta shift.”

I walked over to Mr. Spock’s science station. “Commander Spock. Lieutenant Y/L/N reporting.” His head bobbed in a small greeting.

Spock and I had known each other since my academy days when he was my professor for most subjects. He was my role model and mentor, and I wanted to follow in his footsteps. He was also my closest friend on the ship.

After briefing me with the progress he had made on the current star charting assignment and about his inferences on the nearby nebula, Spock walked over to Kirk, and whispered something. Kirk nodded and said, “Please continue with our research assignments. Mr. Sulu, you have the conn. I’ll be in my quarters.”

  ______________________________________________________________  

Spock’s POV

After filling in Y/N, I walked over to the Captain and quietly said, “Captain, I would like to speak with you.” He nodded, gave his usual orders, and both of us left the bridge for his quarters.

Once in the sanctuary of his quarters, the Captain turned to me, and asked, “What is it, Mr. Spock? You seem concerned.”

I replied in the affirmative, and said, “My concern is for Lieutenant Y/L/N, sir. She seems to be ‘out of her elements’, as would be expressed in Terran colloquial.”

The Captain offered a small, though rueful smile at this. “I agree with you Mr. Spock. She is not one of the outspoken ones, but she does seem a bit… subdued. Perhaps we should ask her what the problem is?”

“Perhaps. Though I have another suggestion sir. We are going to take a short shore leave on Star Base 12 in a few hours. Why not relieve Lieutenant Y/L/N early from her Beta shift so that she can recuperate and make the most out of this shore leave?”

“Yes Mr. Spock. An excellent idea. Anyhow, we take shore leaves only once in a blue moon, so why not allow her to rest a bit before going back out into the dark. I believe we will establish orbit around Star Base 12 by 1800 hours. I myself will relieve her at 1830 hours. Thank you for bringing this to my notice Mr. Spock.”

“My pleasure.”

______________________________________________________________

A few hours later…

Y/N’s POV

After several attempts to refuse an early shore leave and in complete denial of any need of this favour, I had finally beamed down onto Star Base 12.

Along with Scotty.

You might wonder why I was accompanied by the Chief Engineer. That was because of my resistance to go down. Kirk had asked Scotty to accompany me so that I did not sneak back onto the ship. I sighed inwardly.

Wanting to make the most of this time, I asked Scotty to come along with me to a street market. I loved the vibe of street markets – the dim lights, the muffled voices, walking around – it was the perfect ambience to relax.

“Hey Scotty! Come on!” I turned and called to Scotty, who was dragging his feet like a bored teenager. “Ach lass! I didn’t know that I’d have to babysit ya today. I wanted to go to the bar.” He moaned.

“Okay, okay, Lieutenant Commander Scott. Lieutenant Y/L/N will not hold you for long. Come, roam around with me for a while, and then we’ll both go to the bar.”

His face lit up like that of a child on Christmas morning. After that, there was a certain bounce in his step, not stalling anymore.

While scanning the stalls, I saw a small, wooden stringed instrument which piqued my interest. Picking it up gingerly, I held it in my hands. It felt right.

“Ah lass! What are ya doing with a ukulele?”

“You know the name of this instrument?” The shopkeeper asked, visibly surprised.

“Yes of course! My gran used to play this really well. She got it as an heirloom from her mother, who got it from her mother.”

I strummed the strings of the ukulele tentatively. A beautiful sound, though not very melodious, emerged.

“Can I buy this? It’s beautiful.”

The shopkeeper smiled, “You have really good taste. I can see you play this beautifully. That will be ten credits. If you want, I can teach this to you as well.” Her offer seemed genuine.

“Thank you so much!”

  ______________________________________________________________

At the bar

I let an evil grin emerge. Scotty had his head down. I had known his weakness, and now I had the chance to escape.

Well, escape is a strong word, but I had been forced to come down – so it was justified.

I had just drunk a glass of iced tea, not preferring to be hungover the next morning. I had never really liked drinking anyway.

As I was sneaking out of the bar, I saw HIM coming in. My heart immediately jumped into my mouth, beating like crazy. I hid behind the table where an employee was granting entry to the guests. He gave me a weird look but did nothing about me being there.

Once certain that HE was gone, I brushed my clothes, held my head high and started to walk towards the door, when I heard someone call me, and I froze.

“Y/N? Whatcha doin’ here? I thought ya didn’t drink.” The southern drawl rolling smoothly off his tongue.

“H-Hey Doc. Yeah, I don’t drink. I was just giving Scotty some company. I’m going back to my room now.”

“’Kay, great! Have a nice evening.” He sauntered away to where Scotty lay knocked out.

This was getting harder day by day.

______________________________________________________________

The next morning

I was back in my quarters on the Enterprise. Last night had been great, though I won’t admit this to anyone.

After encountering Bones at the bar, I had gone to the shopkeeper who had sold me the ukulele, and I sat there till late at night, learning the basics. I picked up the chords pretty quickly and was onto my first song by midnight. The street shops were open till 2 in the morning, and the shopkeeper seemed keen on teaching me, so I figured why not learn as much as I could.

She told me she had many copies (yes, actual paper copies!) of songs. She called them scores or sheet music. She gave me all the copies of scores she possessed, and I was so grateful!

Rand smuggled me back onto the ship by manning the transporter. She was going down in a while and didn’t mind disobeying Kirk.

The clock flashed 0800 hours as I was snapped out of my thoughts about the previous night. I wanted to utilize the rest of my shore leave efficiently. I got up, showered, and walked to the replicator. When nothing came out even after swiping the card multiple times, I let a sigh out and decided that I’d have to go to the mess.

I swaggered along the deserted decks and corridors of the ship, making no effort to conceal myself. Most people were down on the planet, including the two I wanted to avoid.

Walking into the mess, I ordered popcorn (weird choice, I know) and sat down. Spock, who had entered the mess just after me, slid into the seat opposite me, both of us falling into a comfortable silence. We often had our breakfast together. I was one of the people closest to Spock.

Putting down the Vulcan equivalent of an apple, Spock looked at me and asked, “How are you Y/N? You seemed extremely sombre yesterday. That is unlike you.”

The corner of my mouth lifted slightly at his concern. “I am fine.” I replied. “I guess the work got to me. Yesterday was a nice break.” So much for not telling anyone, I thought, amused. “I don’t think Kirk thought of relieving me early yesterday. Someone else was behind that move.” I gave a teasing grin. Spock’s eyes crinkled in a semblance of a grin.

Once done with our respective meals, I said, “Come to my quarters tonight, Spock. I’ll tell you about my evening and you can tell me about yours. Maybe I’ll even play you something. Bring your lyre as well. I wanna hear you play it.”

Spock bobbed his head, confirming that he’d be there.

  ______________________________________________________________

That evening

I heard knocking at the door. “Come in.” Spock walked in with his Vulcan lyre in hand. I gave him a smile.

Though my quarters were small, I had made enough space for us to sit comfortably, without invading each other’s space. He sat down on the straight backed, cushioned seat which he preferred, and I pulled my desk chair to sit on.

We talked about the events of last night, me reciting everything other than the event when I ran into the Doc (that incident was kept to myself for the time being). Spock told how he had done some work in the science lab, read a book, and practiced playing the lyre (though he didn’t need any).  

“You said that you were going to play for me?” It was more a request than a question. “Yeah.”, I replied. “I bought this old Terran stringed instrument called the ukulele yesterday, and the lady who sold it to me taught me how to read sheet music and also helped me play my first song. It’s “Ocean Eyes” by Billie Eilish from 2016. I’ve heard it before. You wanna hear it?”

Spock lifted his eyebrows in classic Spock fashion, essaying his agreement.

I rarely sang, but when I did, it was only in the privacy of my own quarters. Spock had heard me sing, though not very often.

I started strumming, trying to pick the beat from where I had to start the vocal.

I've been watchin' you for some time Can't stop starin' at those ocean eyes Burning cities and napalm skies Fifteen flares inside those ocean eyes Your ocean eyes.

No fair You really know how to make me cry When you gimme those ocean eyes I'm scared I've never fallen fro…

 I faltered. Spock nodded, his eyes intently watching, eyebrow perked. I could see something glint in his eyes but didn’t understand what it was. I resumed the strumming.

I've never fallen from quite this high                                                                Fallin' into your ocean eyes Those ocean eyes.

I've been walkin' through a world gone blind Can't stop thinkin' of your diamond mind Careful creature made friends with time He left her lonely with a diamond mind And those ocean eyes.

No fair You really know how to make me cry When you gimme those ocean eyes I'm scared I've never fallen from quite this high Fallin' into your ocean eyes Those ocean eyes.

I had been nervous, not because it was my first time playing this song in front of somebody (because I knew Spock would never disregard the importance of beginning, and subsequently growing as a person), but because this song reminded me of a certain someone. If Spock connected the dots, I don’t know what his reaction would be, and whether he would tell McCoy or Jim.

There was silence for a moment. Spock opened his mouth to say something, but then, his communicator beeped. Flipping it open, he said, “Spock here.”

Kirk’s voice cracked through. “Mr. Spock. I request you to please report to my quarters. I have an urgent matter to discuss with you.”

Spock looked at me, that glint still there. I nodded my assent and picked up his lyre from my bed and handed it to him, as he stood from his chair to leave.

I mouthed, “See you later”, and then the door shut.

Lying down on my bed, I decided that it would be best to go to sleep.

But sleep just wouldn’t come.

______________________________________________________________

Spock’s POV

I had had a nice evening with Y/N, though the lyrics of her song still perplexed me. I was reminded of someone by those lyrics, but I can’t seem to determine whom. My brain was “short-circuiting”, as Jim would say, but I was not able to put a finger on who the song pointed to. I had known Y/N long enough to know that this wasn’t just “nothing”, though that’s what she wanted me to believe.

I didn’t know what to make of Jim’s call either. He had planned to stay ashore for at least 12 more hours, but he now was aboard the ship. Though Jim’s words had been authoritative, his tone was friendly and indicated that this had nothing to do with the ship.

I knocked on the door of Jim’s quarters, and heard a small “Come in”. When I walked in, Jim was seated at his desk, his hands intertwined into a tent. “A ‘deep in thought’ position” I thought.

“Jim. Is something troubling you?” Jim looked up and gestured me to sit down. I complied. “No Spock, nothing is troubling me. It’s just, I think I know now why Y/N has been so quiet.”

I gave him a quizzical look.

“Spock, I believe you were with Y/N when I called you?” I nodded. I couldn’t understand where this was going.

“What were you doing?” One of my eyebrows lifted in confusion. Why was Jim asking that?

“Jim, I don’t think you should ask that. I think, on Earth, this is called snooping. Though you are a good friend of Y/N’s, it is my moral responsibility not to tell you anything about what she told or did in confidence.”

Jim’s eyes expressed the same warmth as his smile when I said that. “True gentleman you are, Mr. Spock. Okay, I’ll tell you why I asked that question.” My eyebrows perched higher, indicating my interest.

“I was going to Y/N’s chamber to admonish her for not following her Captain’s orders.”

My expression moved from interested to inquiring.

“I had ordered Y/N to stay on the planet for the entirety of the shore leave. However, when I went to her room at the lodging, she wasn’t there. She had told McCoy that she would be in her room. I knew where she would be – in her quarters, aboard the Enterprise. I walked to her quarters, mock-fuming, and was about to knock, when I heard her start singing.”

I opened my mouth to rebuke Jim for eavesdropping, when he interrupted, “I know Spock, but I had no intention to eavesdrop. I was just drawn to her voice and that song. I love that song.”

“Ocean Eyes by Billie Eilish?”

“Yeah, that one. I was surprised that you didn’t hear me standing outside, what with your enhanced hearing.”

I paused for a moment before I spoke, staring past Jim’s shoulder, my eyes resting on his laurels. “I had been thinking about something.”

______________________________________________________________

Jim’s POV

Spock had apparently zoned out. That was a first.

“I think I can guess what you were thinking about.”

Spock’s eyebrows flew up. “Do you?” he enquired.

“Yes Spock, I think I do. And I think you do too, now. You have arrived at a conclusion, and I would like you to share it with me.”

Spock seemed to hesitate for a moment, but then turned to face me. “I think this has something to do with Dr. McCoy.” My smile turned into a grin. Spock was REALLY smart with this stuff for a person who swore by logic. Spock took this as a confirmation that he was correct.

“I assume I am correct. However, I do not fully understand.”, he remarked.

“My dear Spock, I was surprised that you inferred this much.” If Spock’s brows could go higher, they would have. “It is my hypothesis that Y/N likes Dr. McCoy, but she is in denial.” Spock’s face expressed a mixture of distaste and bewilderment. I chuckled.

“I have known Y/N since our academy days. She is slightly younger than me, but she was always a prodigy. Always top of the class. Not just with marks or grades, but with her work ethic as well. She has never been in a relationship; she never felt the need to be in one. Now, she reminds me a lot of someone I know. Maybe that’s why both of them are such good friends.” I looked at Spock. His face radiated a hint of pride.

I continued. “And now, she is faced by this overwhelming feeling, one I doubt she ever felt before. And she is uncertain, how to act on this feeling, or whether to act at all.”

Realization dawned on Spock’s visage. Then, it was replaced by dubiousness and even a hint of distaste. “But why Dr. McCoy?” he asked. I let out a hearty laugh. Everyone knew of the friendly banter between him and McCoy.

“No Jim, I am serious. I care for Y/N deeply, though not in a romantic sense. If the doctor did anything to hurt her, I would disapprove.”

By “disapprove” I knew Spock would go on a killing spree. And the first would be Bones. I grinned inwardly. This was starting to get interesting, and I now had a chance to tease Spock.

“Isn’t disapproval a human emotion?” I tried (and failed) to keep the smirk off my face.

Spock looked at me dead in the eyes. My stomach suddenly became a bottomless pit. With an intense gaze, he whispered, “Yes.”

______________________________________________________________

Bones’ POV

I was on my way to the Transporter Room when Uhura said that she had a message from Joanna. Her messages really made my day. I asked her to transfer the message to the intercom in the Transporter Room.

I walked into the transporter room, which seemed to be deserted. “Never mind”, I thought. I would have preferred to listen to the message alone, so I didn’t mind. I switched on the intercom and confirmed that I had reached the Transporter Room.

Immediately, Joanna’s message started playing.

“Hey Papa!”, her sweet voice chirped. I smiled. “I was a few light years away from Earth, so decided that why not spend my holiday on our home planet. I went to Georgia and checked on our house and the farm. Everything is in place. I am off to India to spend a week or two. I have a month before I join the Farragut as their nurse trainee. I am really excited! Tell me if the Enterprise’s schedule matches with the Farragut’s, so that we can meet soon. Love you and meet you soon!”

“Wow”, I breathed. “What an exciting young lady.” I thanked Uhura, and then typed up my message on my PADD and sent it to her. I still like sending her emails, though they were considered ancient. “Hmm.” I hummed. “Forever the sensualist.”

______________________________________________________________  

Later that evening

I was trying to find the bar where Scotty had asked me to join him, when I caught a glimpse of Y/N coming out of a bar. I had heard that she had been accompanied by Scotty onto the surface, so I started walking towards her. I heard some laughter and turned to look in the direction of the commotion. Seeing nothing of significance, I faced again towards my destination, searching for Y/N, but she had disappeared. “Weird”, I mumbled.

I stepped into the foyer and was about to enter the bar when I turned around, wondering where Y/N had gone. And there she was! I called out her name and made small talk. Then we both went our separate ways.

I spotted Scotty and hurried towards his seat. “Got started without me, huh?”, I teased. Scotty, who had had is head down, lifted it and slurred, “Why are yer cheeks red, eh McCoy? Had a swig on the ship, huh?” I knitted my eyebrows together. I hadn’t been drinking. I dismissed it to be the cold.

______________________________________________________________

A few hours later

A blinding light flashed in my eyes. “Who’s it? What’re you doin’?” I caught a glimpse of a blue shirt. It reminded me of someone.

“Y/N?”

“Bones why do you have to drink so much? You always get hungover and start hallucinating. Then I have to take care of you. Dammit, I’m a Starship captain, not a doctor.”

“Ah Jimmy boy. Take me home now, will ya?”

______________________________________________________________

The next morning

I woke up with a splitting headache. When I opened my eyes and looked around that I realized I was not in my quarters. Hell, I wasn’t even on the Enterprise.

“Shit.” I cursed softly.

“Finally, you are up, huh? I really think you could’ve given Sleeping Beauty a run for the money.”

I huffed. I knew that voice well. Maybe too well. And I knew what that meant. “I’m sorry Jim. Just got flown away with the drinking last night. I don’t even remember you picking me up.”

“I think we should stop booking an extra room for you. You always end up crashing in mine during shore leaves.”, Jim remarked sarcastically, getting up from the reading chair and putting down his PADD.

“Drink this. You’ll feel better.” He handed me a glass of lemonade.

“What, you’re gonna use my own hacks against me?”

“Shut up and drink it.”

I accepted the glass and started taking sips from it.

“You know, you said something last night which made me think a lot.”

“Well, that’s new.” I remarked with a smirk.

Jim feigned annoyance, then continued. “You know, when I came to pick you up last night, I was wearing a blue shirt.”

“Mh-hm”

“And when you saw me, you said, ‘Y/N?’. Were you expecting her or something?”

“Hmm. I don’t remember saying that actually. Maybe that was because I saw her last night before going into the bar. She was hiding from somebody, I guess. And I was surprised to even see her at a bar – she doesn’t drink, you know.”

Jim nodded. “Do you know where she went?”

“She said she was going to her room.” I said, matter-of-factly.

“’Kay.”

______________________________________________________________

That evening

Jim had left for the Enterprise – he had some work onboard. I decided that I’d roam around the markets for a while. I never was a fan of shopping, but Christine always asked me to take small memorabilia from each planet I visited for Joanna. She seemed to like it – so I didn’t mind too much.

Hands tucked behind my back, I strolled through the stalls. I came across a shop selling ancient art prints. There were abstract paintings, movie poster recreations and the like. I picked up a print of warm toned abstract art and a recreation of the Titanic poster for Joanna. Suddenly, a small necklace and bracelet caught my eye. It didn’t seem to have any lustre, but it had an aura that I was drawn to. Entranced, I asked what it was.

“It is Vokaya – a rare Vulcan jewel.” The shopkeeper said. He was Vulcan as well. So much for being in a green-hobgoblin-free zone. But really, I was mesmerised by this ornament, and ended up buying it.

Walking back to my room, I huffed. I had never been an impulsive buyer. Thinking about the peculiar feeling that had filled me, I walked down the corridor and entered my room.

And collided with someone standing straight like a rod.

I groaned. I knew who this was.

______________________________________________________________

Y/N’s POV

The next morning

I finally got out of my bed – I had barely gotten any sleep. I kept tossing and turning, thinking about my encounter with Bones last night and Spock’s reaction to me singing that song. He must have figured it out by now.

“Well – how bad can the situation get?” I murmured.

Before I could go into the washroom to get ready for the day, I heard a knock on the door.

“Come in.”

In stormed Jim Kirk – his expression unreadable.

“Captain? What happened? Is everything alright?”

“Jim, please; I’m off duty.” Sitting down on the chair where Spock had sat last night, he said, “Calm down Y/N. Nothing’s wrong. Can’t a friend come to talk to another friend when everyone else is on shore leave?” He flashed that “I am charming” smile. I rolled my eyes.

“Sit down Jim. Let me get dressed. Then we can have breakfast together in the mess.”

Jim shook his head. “I think we should eat in my quarters.”

That was new. Why did Jim want to have breakfast alone? “Okay…” I said, sounding hesitant.

Jim gave me a smile, a genuine one. “Don’t worry, Y/N. Really. It’s nothing.”

Knowing Jim for so many years had made one thing clear:

When he said, “It’s nothing.”, there really WAS something.

______________________________________________________________

Jim’s POV

When I entered Y/N’s quarters, she looked a mess. She had always been an extremely graceful and likeable person – after all, we both were nerds. But today, there was something off. She had eyebags beneath her eyes, and her tired demeanour indicated that she hadn’t gotten much sleep.

But I could not bail out on Spock’s plan. So, it would have to do.

Spock had come up with something which was very unlike Spock – but the man never failed to surprise me. We had done what we had to do with McCoy. It hadn’t been easy, because he would not sleep at night, and kept protesting when he woke up. But we had managed.

He was in his quarters, unaware what was happening. We had brought him aboard forcefully. He won’t sit there for long. We had to hurry.

“Hey, Jim. Let’s go.”

I snapped my head in the direction of the voice.

“After you”

As the door slid open, a small voice came through.

“I am sorry Y/N.”

And then, Y/N slumped unconscious.

______________________________________________________________

A few hours later

Bones POV

Spock and Jim had been acting weird. Like, they have always been slightly off their hooks, but today, there was an air of urgency about them.

That is extremely discomforting with Spock, because usually he is the patient one preventing Jim from running around like a headless chicken.

I was pacing around my quarters. I had been asked to stay inside until called. “Captain’s orders.”, Jim had said.

I huffed. Did he really think I was going to listen to him? It had been a while since they had left, and I decided to get some work done.

Before I could decide what was the agenda for today, my intercom whistled. “McCoy here.”

“Uhura here.” Her voice was strained. “Doctor, please hurry to the Bridge. There is an emergency. Y/N has fainted.” Cursing under my breath, I picked up my medical kit and rushed out of the door.

The doors of the turbolift slid open and I walked out, worried what had happened. I looked around but there was no one. Perplexed, I scanned the bridge for any signs of hastened evacuation. My eyes landed on a head poking from the Captain’s chair.

I walked to the chair and turned it around. Y/N was slumped unconscious in it. I took her pulse, but it was really faint. I took out a hypo and filled it with cordrazine. This was risky material, but it would wake Y/N up for sure. The hypo hissed as it pressed it into her forearm, and she stirred.

______________________________________________________________

Y/N’s POV

My head was throbbing. My eyes fluttered, but they won’t open. “Too bright”, I mumbled. Someone standing next to me said, “Computer, dim the lights.” The voice mumbled something, then stopped. My eyes opened, and then focussed on the person kneeling beside me. “Doctor?” I said, voice cracking.

“Yeah Y/N. What happened? Why did you faint? Why are you sitting in the Captain’s chair? Do you remember anything?”

I looked around, a bewildered look covering my face. I didn’t remember coming to the bridge. “I don’t know Doc… I don’t even remember coming to the bridge…” McCoy got up quickly and started examining me with his tricorder.

“No signs of mental trauma. Are you sure you don’t remember coming here?” I nodded. Looking around, I now noticed that the lighting was pinkish. “Hey Doc… why is the lighting here pink?” I failed to keep the smile off my face.

He chuckled. “I don’t know. When you woke up, I ordered the computer to dim the lights. It did, but the lights also became pink.”

Suddenly, it hit me. “Oh my God. I just remembered. This has something to do with Jim. And Spock. Jim had come to my quarters to invite me for breakfast. When I was about to walk out, somebody said, ‘I am sorry Y/N.’, and then I fainted.”

McCoy’s eyes had grown wide. He seemed angry. “Come on. Let’s find the two devils.”

I tried getting up but stumbled. McCoy held my forearm and held me up. Then he stopped. “Y/N. There’s a piece of paper stuck to your back.” Confused, I asked him to remove it. “It won’t come off.”

“What does it say?”

“Um… It says, ‘I’ve been watching you for some time; Can’t stop staring at those ocean eyes.’”

I froze. I turned around to face McCoy and opened my mouth to say something, but nothing came out.

I couldn’t decipher the expression on his face, but I could see the gears turning in his mind. Would he be angry? Or upset? I half expected him to just shrug and walk away, when surprisingly he held my hand and kissed it.

I tilted my head like a confused squirrel, giving him a look of *almost* disbelief.

He chuckled, “Yeah I get it now. But before we get all sweet, I really wanna hunt down both the red-blooded and the green-blooded devils. They are not going to get away with this.”

I looked into his eyes, for the first time today.

And I felt myself sinking deep into the ocean of his eyes.

______________________________________________________________

Epilogue

Spock’s POV

We had watched the events on the bridge as they took place trough the security cameras. By we, I mean Jim, I and Uhura.

Uhura was laughing so hard that she was on the verge of choking. Jim was bursting with laughter and happiness, his cheeks red. The sight made me want to smile broadly.

“Oh my God Spock, you really are a genius. This was the cleverest shipping of two people ever!”

I tilted my head, asking him what “shipping” meant.

“Never mind. Let’s go now. Otherwise, Bones will hypo the lives out of us. And Y/N adding to the party is not going to be beneficial.”

He gripped my hand and lead the way, running through the corridors of our beloved ship.

And I didn’t mind being by his side one bit.

[stenbrozier]

Stumbling Hearts (Past!Stanley Uris x Reader/Current!Bill Denbrough x Reader)

“hi love! could you write a fic for Stanley's POV where he and the reader dated but he broke up with her and Bill took care of her and they eventually got together and Stanley's just jealous? and can it be based on "If I Really Love You" by Lexi Jayde? ty”- @gogo-is-cooler-than-you

Warnings: over dramatic!Stanley Uris. angst, couples fighting (yelling + light shoving), underage drinking, crying + swearing

A/N: This fic is based on a few events from my past relationship and how he and I broke up, so it’s going to hit close to home!!! You were warned :)

——————————————————————————

“You can’t just tell me not to go somewhere, Stanley,” you yelled angrily, trying to maneuver around him so that you could get to your backpack that was sitting on his bed. He crossed his arms over his chest and slid across the floor every time you tried to go around him. “Stan, let me go see Beverly. We’ve had this night planned for weeks.”

He huffed, planting his feet firmly on the floor. “We never hang out anymore, (Y/N). Just spend one night with me. You’re so distant lately.” You stopped trying to get around him, looking at him wide eyed as you crossed your arms over your chest. “You...you never ever sleepover anymore, you don’t talk to me for more than 10 or 15 minutes at a time. I miss you, Baby.”

You looked him dead in the eye, sucking on your teeth before answering. “You’re the one who’s busy with all your classes. You’re so smart that you always have to study and you never want me to stay ‘too long’. I need attention. Beverly gives me attention. Bill gives me-“

“Bill?” he asked shocked, his arms falling down to his sides as his whole body sagged. “Bill.” He turned around, tears in his eyes as he grabbed your backpack, throwing it back in your direction. “Go then. Go see Bev.”

“Stan, I didn’t mean it like that with Bill,” you answered, still an edge of annoyance in your voice as you saw how upset he was getting. He has been ignoring you for weeks, not completely, but he didn’t offer for you to sleepover or to go to the diner. Yes, he was busy with finals, but that didn’t give him an excuse to just throw you to the side. “Stan, I’m only hanging out with Bev today. I-I don’t know why I brought up Bi-“

“I think we should take a break,” he said, his voice muffled by his palms being in his face. “I-I need to focus on school and you...I don’t know what you need to do, but-“

“So you’re giving up?” you asked, sadness washing over you as you noticed his fragile frame. He curled up on his bed, knees now to his chest. “Just throwing two years away?” He shook his head, his hands going down to the bed with a surprisingly loud thump.

“Fucking leave,” he screamed, his voice cracking dramatically. “I’m done. Out. Get the fuck out of my house. Grab your shit.”

“So now you’re breaking,” you sniffled, interrupting yourself with a voice crack, “breaking up with me?” You looked at Stan has he lifted his head up, his eyes puffy and red as he nodded slightly, breaking down in tears again. You nodded, wiping the tears off of your cheeks.

“I’ll bring all your stuff that’s at mine by in the next couple days,” you calmly responded. “You better have all my shit together, too.”

You swung the backpack over your shoulders, stomping out of his room, slamming the door shut behind you. You noticed Mrs. Uris standing at the bottom of the steps, concern washing over her face as she saw the tears running down your face.

“So I’m guessing you’re not staying for dinner?” she asked a bit awkwardly, wringing her hands in front of her as you shook your head. “Is he...”

“He’s crying if you want to go comfort him,” you answered softly. “Thank you for offering dinner. I’m sure I’ll see you at some point, not soon though.”

“Okay, Dear,” she answered distractedly, rushing upstairs to see how her son was doing. You grabbed your shoes from in front of the door, slipping them on as you rushed out the front door. You grabbed your bike, sniffling as you tried to stop crying enough to get to the quarry safely. Ultimately, you decided to head home instead, opting to explain your absence to Bev tomorrow.

You now laid in your bed, snuggling up to one of his sweaters that you, unfortunately, offered to give back. He wouldn’t miss one of them, you thought pensively. It was his giant, olive green one that made him look like a grandpa. It had swallowed him whole, which meant it was like a dress, and then some, on you. You sniffled and took heavy breaths, tears falling from your eyes and your nose being so full of mucus that you couldn’t even breath.

“He didn’t mean that,” you said to yourself softly as you sat up against your headboard. “He still loves me. He still...” Your voice trailed off as sobs racked through your body, and you pushed the hoodie further to your face. You heard a soft knock on your door, your mom calling you from the other side to tell you that there was someone on the phone for you. You told her that you’d be down in a minute, wiping the tears out of your eyes as you stood up from your bed. When you walked out the door, your mom kissed your forehead and followed you down the steps.

“Hello?” you said into the phone, your voice thick with sadness.

“I-It’s Bill,” the voice on the other end answered. You smiled softly, looking down at your feet. “S-s-stan told me what h-happened and I f-figured I’d ask y-y-you if you were ok-k-kay.” You sighed into the phone, feeling tears sting at the corner of your eyes once again.

“Yeah, I’m okay”, you lied blatantly, holding back the tears as your voice cracked. “I’m okay, Bill. Don’t worry about me.”

“I-I’m coming to p-p-pick you up and we’re going to g-go to the quarry, o-okay?” His voice was full of confidence, despite the stuttering, and he sounded as if he wanted to see you.

“Okay, I’ll be ready,” you answered, bidding him a quick goodbye. “Mom, Bill’s coming to pick me up so I won’t be having dinner with you guys.” You heard her put a pot down in the kitchen as she hollered back an “Okay, I’ll save some anyway!”

You went upstairs, changing into Stanley’s hoodie and pulling it on, slipping on your sneakers and walking out to sit on your front step and wait for Bill. A few minutes later, he pulled up in his beat up Saturn, waving at you from the driver’s side. You stood up, hugging the hoodie closer to your body as you hopped into his passenger’s side. He reached over and squeezed your knee, giving you an apologetic smile.

“I-I was thinking w-we could catch a m-m-movie at the Aladdin and then g-go to the d-diner for dinner in-instead,” he piped up as he pulled off towards the center of town. “I-I’ll p-p-p-pay.” He looked over briefly, giving you a soft smile.

“Yeah, Bill, thank you,” you answered timidly, running your right hand over your opposite arm and bringing your knees up in the seat. “You don’t have to. We can just hang out at your house if you want.” He scoffed, shaking his head.

“If S-stan couldn’t give you a pr-pr-proper date night, then I-I’m going t-t-to.” You blushed at his words, a real and big smile spreading across your face as he pulled into the parking lot by the movie theatre. He ran around to your side of the car, opening the door for you with a smile and a light blush on his cheek.

After that night, you were with Bill every night, either at your house or his, hanging out and getting to know each other more. You and Bill had always been close, ever since you were little, but he was telling you things about him that you have never heard before. He was taking you on more dates, eventually starting to hold your hand and kiss your cheek; however, you did nothing in front of the Losers. Stanley was still struggling with the breakup, being very distant when you were around and only giving you tight lipped smiles and side glances. You and Bill didn’t want to make him feel completely isolated, so you just kept it to yourselves. The only person who knew that there was anything between you guys was Bev.

She had found out that you guys were messing around when she saw you and him at the Aladdin, making out in the back row when when and Ben had come to see a movie. She confronted you both right after, in the lobby, and all three of you vowed not to say anything to Stan.

Until Stan found out that is.

You and Bill made the stupid mistake of kissing goodbye in the hallway after last period because he had baseball, and Stan had caught you two on the way to the locker room. When you had left, Stan cornered Bill, holding him against the wall by his shirt as he yelled at him for “taking his girl.” The only reason you heard about it was because Bill recounted the incident to you, which caused you to flip out on Stan. Stan avoided the hangouts for a little while after, choosing to “focus more on classes” instead of fooling around and getting drunk. That lead to all the other Losers finding out about you and Bill’s exploits.

That lead you to tonight, the first time you had seen Stan in the clubhouse since the end of March. It was the weekend before your graduation, and you all wanted to get together before the family parties that littered the summer weekends up until August. Richie, like usually, brought a bunch of beer and a bottle of vodka. You all took turns taking swigs from it until it was finished and you were all giggly. All except Stan. Stan was seething in the corner while everyone sat on the couple old mattresses that you all had managed to fit down there a few years back. He was sitting on a little bar stool, his eyes stuck on you and Bill.

Bill’s arm was around your waist, you sitting in between his spread legs, and his chin was resting on your shoulder. You were all laughing at something Mike had said when suddenly Stan’s beer clattered to the ground, cracking and spilling out the bottom. He stormed out of the clubhouse, slamming the door shut. You were immediately on your feet, handing Bill your beer as you ran after him. As you peered your head out into the Barrens, you saw him leaning against a tree.

“Stanley?” you called out, slightly worried as you stepped closer to him. “Stanley.” You said his name again but more stern, catching his attention as he had a scowl on his face and tears in his eyes. He pushed himself off the tree, facing you fully as he crossed his arms over his chest.

“Why are you out here?” he asked softly, a bad attitude evident in his voice. “Don’t you have a boyfriend to get back to?”

“Is that...is that what this is about?” you asked incredulously, trying to stifle back a scoff. “We broke up, Stan. It’s not like I was cheating on you.”

“Yeah, but you went to him,” he huffed, gesturing in the general direction of the clubhouse. “Of course you’d go to Bill. He’s better than me in every way.”

“He gives me the attention I need,” you snapped back, looking him up and down in disgust. “You stopped giving it to me. We were together for a long time and you just-“ You cut yourself off with a sob, looking down at your feet as you heard him shuffle across the leaves closer to you. You felt a hand touch your shoulder, and you moved away, looking up at him. “You broke me. Bill’s fixing me. You don’t have to be an asshole.”

“(Y/N), I’m sorry,” Stan confessed through tears. “I-I shouldn’t have done that to you. I still have that oversized Led Zepplin shirt of yours if you want it back.” You shook your head, giving him a tight smile.

“I still have the grandpa sweater,” you shrugged your shoulders. “But you can have-“

“Keep it,” he cut you off with a thin lined smile. “It looked better on you anyway.” He looked down at the leaves, crunching them until he decided to speak up. “So, we going back?”

You nodded, turning around and hearing him follow suit. “Just...be nice, okay? I don’t want you beating Bill up.”

“I’d never actually hurt him,” Stanley responded in defense. “I’d probably just shove him down or something.”

When you went back into the clubhouse, everyone smiled at you both. You took your place back in between Bill’s legs, and Stan sat next to you guys, laughing along with the jokes and including himself comfortably.

[krosaceae]

For the fanfic writing ask: 🏅👨‍👧‍👧⏰ 👀

Heck yeah!!! More asks!!! Thank you!! :D

We gots:

🏅 What is something you recently felt proud of in regard to your writing (finished a fic, actually planned for once, etc).

👨‍👧‍👧 Do you tell people in real life that you write fic?

⏰ Do you spend more time reading fic, writing fic, or do you do both equally?

👀 Do you have any WIPs that you would never let see the light of day? If yes, what are they about

Answering under the cut because I'm unfamiliar with brevity, and the last question inevitably is going to get a little nsfw lmao.

🏅 What is something you recently felt proud of in regard to your writing (finished a fic, actually planned for once, etc).

I hate that my first instinct was to be like "oh getting x number of kudos/views/subs/etc." because I'm trying to move away from using external motivators when it comes to writing. Its hard though, since I'm such a numbers/data gal.

So I've been thinking about it more. And recently, I've just been super fucking proud of myself for sticking with and growing with my fic. Its almost been a year since I decided to rewrite Barriers!

And its a BFD because I may or may not have this super bad habit of viciously giving up anything that I don't immediately excel at. And I struggle with a lot of aspects of writing. But I've stuck with it—not to mention the same story—for much longer than I thought I would (which sounds so bad to say, I know, lmao but its true) Like when I started rewriting Barriers I think I had originally posted 7 chapters on FFN? And the idea of having to write beyond the original chapters I had terrified me. Now I've written more than I started with, plus I like it MORE than what I started with, and am super eager to continue telling the story. So I guess I'm just proud of that growth :)

👨‍👧‍👧 Do you tell people in real life that you write fic?

Like yes and no. I don't outwardly yell from the rooftops like "WHAT'S UP EVERYBODY I WRITE FANFICTION AND I'M PROUD!!!" But I don't actively hide it from the people I'm close to.

Like my fiance is super supportive, even though he doesn't really read or know much about the fandom (he is def my muse for Gray, though, and he is well aware lmao). My best friend used to write and read fanfiction in another fandom, so like she gets it, but my fic isn't really her cup of tea. The rest of my friends are so sweet but like v normie and are just like "cool keeks!!! <3 whatever makes you happy!!!" because they have no idea what the fuck fandom, fanfiction, or bokumono games are anyway, so I basically just tell them that I write now to save explaining it EVERY SINGLE TIME.

⏰ Do you spend more time reading fic, writing fic, or do you do both equally?

I used to spend a lot more time reading than I did writing. But I also spent a lot more time daydreaming than writing during that time as well. Now I definitely spend more time writing than I do reading, mainly because instead of giving in to the daydreams as often as I did, I try to turn that into writing time, if that makes sense? So I'm not really reading any less than I was, I’m just writing WAY more than I used to.

Probs like 70% writing, 30% reading. I've also just been in non-stop writer mode, trying to get as much done before the school year picks up again, so that contributes too lol.

👀 Do you have any WIPs that you would never let see the light of day? If yes, what are they about

Do I ever lmao. Phew. Let's start with the more tame one.

I have a Graire (SURPRISE!) like fantasy/medieval AU that I dream about all the time. I sometimes chip away at if I get Graire ideas that don't exactly fit into Barriers, but the amount of world building that would have to go into it to make it a viable fic is just way too daunting rn. I've talked @practicado 's ear off about it but like the basic premise is our poor blacksmith boi gets accidentally wrapped up in all the royal drama as Claire (obviously a princess) is promised to her family's enemy as a truce. Claire being Claire plans to assassinate her newly betrothed, avenge her father, and rightfully rule over the land herself, but Gray basically stumbles into her plan and both use that situation to their advantage until they're both basically working for the same goal and fall in love. Basically lots of fighting, drinking, sex, revelries, taverns, etc. Overall a good time and I'd love to actually finish writing it but probs never will.

Another WIP of sorts I have involve the scenes I mention that happen "off camera" in Barriers aka one that Gray isn't a part of. I write all of those out in a separate document—So imagine, times like the fireworks festival when Ann came and found Claire, Claire and Kai being left at the snack shack alone, Claire going to 'apologize' to Mary—I've written all of those scenes (and will continue to do so). I just will probs never post them because I have no idea how I'd even logically compile them lol. But they're fun and I wish I could just post them in Barriers lmao.

I do have a WIP that recounts Gray and Claire's drunken adventures that fateful night (its porn with a plot), but I will probably end up posting that one eventually so I will talk about the others lol. On the topic of Graire smut, I do have like a dump of all of my 1st Person POV attempts using Gray. And those will likely never see the light of day even if I do end up putting smut in Barriers lmao.

Two WIPS I am not particularly proud of and will definitely never see the light of day are the smutty continuation of The Next Best Thing (PopurixKaren) and then my MaryxClaire library fixation. I just... who doesn't want to have sex in a library? Just me? Ok. I’m done.

Haha alrighty, as always I went in. I appreciate the ask! <3

[kaypeace21]

Hey Kay! I was wondering... I'm thinking of writing a Byler fic. Is there anything that's missing from the current fic library that you think would be good to see, in terms of tropes, characterisation, things to explore, etc? I would also appreciate hearing from your followers. Just any ideas that people would like to see in a fic.

yeah sure ...

1)We need more povs from Mike’s perspective. (Almost all are from Will’s pov - let’s mix it up sometimes)

Mike in canon is the pinning-gay -(overly romantic) whipped one , but we never see it. And he’s pretty much never written this way! Mike in s3 has 6 drawings from Will on his wall  (he kept them up since s1-for years- despite replacing the poster on the same wall). Has even caressed extra drawings of Will’s that he’s kept in his binder.  In s1 wrote a whole story for Will about defeating a monster and giving the king it’s  7 heads (cause Will rolled a 7 when the demogorgan attacked him.) And as a Star Wars fan he had his own character be given a medal by the king (like how leia gave the medal to Han for his heroism.) He attacked people for insulting Will. Literally hates apologizing -but is quick to do so for Will . Boy ran in the pouring rain twice for Will- disobeying cops, the government, and his parents to do so. He initiates every byler moment (arm thing, hand touch, ‘best thing i’ve ever done’, ‘crazy together, right?’, always asking Will “what’s wrong?” or “are you ok?” etc). And was upset at Will dancing with a girl + insecure about Will replacing him -after he moves away.

-but 90% of byler fanfics (don’t get me wrong some are good) are from Will’s pinning perspective. Also do people realize Mike is clearly the more romantic/ emotional open of the 2 while Will is clearly the more emotionally closed off/aloof one?  He loves Mike too- but he’s def less obvious about his feelings- based on how he behaves. Will rarely opens up to people (Mike being an exception). But, it’s never written that way (usually it’s the opposite).  

2) as a gay women all the reductive stereotypes annoy me. it’s obvious when fic writers try to have the gay romance be modeled after het romance- and try to make one into the ‘girl’/ ‘guy’. Duffers don’t stereotype  Mike or Will but a lot of fanfiction writers do in order to make the gay romance resemble a straight one more (canon character traits, be dammed). Please, stop pushing heterosexual dynamics on gay and lesbian couples and trying to make one “the girl” and “the guy”. It’s very offensive and innaccurate.

Because he’s taller and most people head canon him as bi they make Mike a jock (despite in canon having horrible aim and not being able to run as fast as the rest of the gang). And Will (since most see him as gay) is weak/ sucks at sports compared to mike...despite knowing how to use a bat, shoot a gun, and being able to tear castle byers apart with his bare hands . Also nothing in canon shows Will likes to wear makeup and dress in drag (but it’s a constant thing that i’ve heard come up or heard others mention). It would be fine if he wanted to express himself in such a way. And if it only came up in an occasional fic it wouldn’t be a big deal. But it’s such a common theme that comes up (despite no canon evidence) that in most cases it just screams ‘straight writers trying to make Will into “the girl”’.  Not to mention the huge emphasis of their height difference (shows this too). It can get annoying calling him “short” & “petite” (a term used for women) when will isn’t even the shortest guy member- and now his actor is way taller than gaten (dustin) a bit taller (I think?) than caleb (Lucas) and barely shorter than finn (Mike’s actor). But writers even in future fics write him as short...ok? ya’ll really can’t let go of making Will “the girl.” Cause ya’ll incorrectly equate shortness to femminity. It’s tiring. Some writers straight up say he’s “pretty “, “feminine” or “looks like a girl” 🙄

3) it’s not byler if it’s unrequited- stop tagging it as such

4) more emphasis on Will’s passions(art, writing, horror movies). Maybe in his upbringing with Lonnie.And jon being a good bro to him. Will’s Mental health issues maybe ?

5) mike is a socially awkward, clumsy, unathletic, (caring) science/sci-fi /D&D loving nerd. In au whatever- but mike is not a bro-y jock, or a cool bad boy. 😂 plus , more writer mike would be nice to see

6) headcanon him all you want -but at this point it’s pretty obvious (to me at least) Mike never loved el,and was just lying/confused/ projecting Will on her. And El is/was also confused and never loved mike.   so it would be nicer to see that instead of Mike just ‘falling out of love’ with her. Mike is gay. people say in s3 Will saying “a day free of girls” is gay coded but everyone ignores Mike in s3 saying “BOYS ONLY”. same energy. writers even threw in a telemarketing joke so Mike says in s3 “El? no. sorry not interested.” And Mike has more rainbow refs than Will.  Boy is clearly gay not bi (way too much evidence to talk about here) .  They even  compare mileven to ted/karen who “never loved each other.”   The  writers make fun of mileven constantly and say over and over it’s not actually romantic - (if you choose to read just 1 link read this one  and get with the program) . plus, most Bi dudes  wouldn’t stop being attracted to a girl the more fem she gets (and only be attracted to her when she looks like a “guy”(specifically their guy friend).which yes the characters in s1 said over and over again that El looked like a “boy”/“will”.  And then they have him Makeout with her while putting up a  drawing of said male bff on the wall (cause now she looks less like him) and so he needs to look at said bro, to stomach the makeout seshes/ and in an effort to transfer said romantic feelings from guy friend to gf. Then push his gf’s hands off himself during the kisses- sing to stop kissing, and  kiss to mostly show off how straight he is. And without said pic- not kiss back and just keep his eyes open and not reciprocate. Nor would they have Mike equate het romance to something he thinks he has to do as a part of growing up . Bi dudes consider falling for a girl as simply romance not a foreign idea that has to be done cause there’s no other option and that’s ‘just what old people do’. Mike claims el is the only girl he’s ever had feelings for - but like dustin said mileven is “bullshit “ (stancy parallel -where nancy was not in love but faking it). So mike’s never been into a girl and is also into Will... so...

7) it’s the 80s they can’t just be open/ have pda in public (you could have gotten k*lled or beaten severely.) And most of their friends/fam would not take it well initially. (I think jon, Karen , and steve/robin would take it well... but not most of the crew.) although they’d all prob come around eventually . -Takes me out of a fic to have such historical revisionism when everyone is just totally fine with byler and they’re out to the public/strangers.

but that’s just me. What about you guys?

[charmingnines]

want - reed900 through connor’s pov fic

summary: 

“When Gavin got shot, I thought that he was-that he was-” Nines broke off. “Humans are such idiots,” he said miserably. Suddenly, something clicked into place for Connor. “Are you and Reed-?”

Nines and Gavin getting together through Connor's perspective ft. Connor being protective, Hank&Connor being cute, and Nines freaking out over an injured Gavin!

read it on ao3

or read the rest below vvv

Connor was protective of Nines. Too protective, Hank had said. But Connor couldn’t help it. Nines was basically his little brother, though Nines was taller and (technically) more advanced than Connor.

It’d been months since the revolution. Months since Markus had deviated Nines. Connor knew, though he’d never outright said it, that Nines was bothered he hadn’t chosen to deviate. Nines had asked, soon after being awoken, what deviating had been like for Connor.  

“It was like I was stuck behind a wall,” Connor had said. “But every time I tore it down there was another.”  

“What made you keep going?” Nines had asked.

“I didn’t want to do what they programmed me to do,” Connor had said. “I wanted to help Markus, not kill him. I wanted….” Connor had trailed off, looking out the backyard window where Hank was playing with Sumo. Sumo kept lunging for the toy in Hank’s hand. Connor could tell by Hank’s face that he was laughing.

Connor had turned back to Nines, who had a look of longing on his face that made Connor’s chest hurt. Nines didn’t show emotion often, a side effect of his intimidating design, but when he did….

“I think it’s a good thing you didn’t choose to deviate,” Connor had said. “You were born- awoken- with free will. You get to figure out your own purpose, right from the start.”

At that, Nines’ mouth had quirked to the side. His equivalent of a full-blown grin.

The next morning, as Connor waited for Hank to get ready for work, Nines told Connor he’d figured out his purpose.

“I want to work at the DPD,” Nines said.

“Oh,” Connor said, surprised at Nines’ speed. Connor had been under the impression it took people a lot of time, sometimes their whole lives, to figure out their purpose. Though, Connor reasoned, Nines was an advanced prototype. “Are you sure?”

“Yes,” Nines said, without a trace of hesitation.  

Then, Hank walked out the bedroom, absentmindedly kissing Connor on the temple as he made his way into the kitchen for coffee.

“Nines wants to work at the DPD,” Connor told him.

“Hm. Makes sense,” Hank said.  

“Makes sense,” Nines echoed to Connor, smiling slightly.

“You know, you don’t have to do what you were programmed for,” Connor reminded Nines.

“You do what you’re programmed for,” Nines pointed out.

From the kitchen, Hank laughed. “He’s got a point there, Connor.”

Connor’s LED spun yellow. It wasn’t that Connor didn’t want Nines to work with him. He just wanted Nines to consider all of his options.

“You’re sure?” Connor asked again, studying Nines’ face.  

Nines’ jaw was set, his expression open. “I’m sure,” he said.

“Okay,” Connor said. “I’ll talk to Fowler.”

_

Connor and Hank were talking in bed, Connor leaning against Hank’s chest. “I can’t believe how quickly Fowler said yes,” Connor said.

“I can,” Hank said. “Fowler could fire most of the precinct if Nines is half as good as you.”

“Most of the precinct?” Connor said, agitated.  

“Kidding,” Hank said quickly.

Nines had been overjoyed when Connor had told him the news, LED spinning bright blue. Nines had retired to the guest room after Hank ate dinner, going into stasis to prepare for his first day.

“Hey,” Hank said, thumb brushing over Connor’s LED, which had been circling yellow since he’d talked to Fowler. “You’re thinkin’ too hard.”

Connor intertwined his hand with Hank’s free one, sighing. “Just nervous.”

“Don’t be,” Hank said, squeezing Connor’s hand. “Besides, even if you tell him not to go, he won’t listen. Stubborn little shit gets that from being around you.”

Connor laughed weakly.

Hank squeezed Connor’s hand. “It’ll be fine,” he assured. Then, Hank kissed Connor. Connor took Hank’s advice and stopped worrying, at least for the rest of the night.

_

Introductions started off well enough. Fowler was gruff as always. Chris was welcoming and kind. Tina shook Nines’ hand with only a blink of surprise at he and Connor’s resemblance.

They weren’t the ones Connor was overly worried about Nines meeting. Detective Reed, on the other hand….

Reed had changed, since the revolution. He’d even apologized to Connor, afterwards. He, like the majority of the public, had been shaken at peacefully protesting androids being killed and shipped off to camps.

Reed still called Connor ‘dipshit’, but it seemed more out of habit than malice. Connor wasn’t sure what Nines would make of Reed; he’d been unable to preconstruct any solid outcomes of their meeting.

“Who’s that?” Nines asked, cocking his head to where Reed had just sat down at his desk.  

“Detective Reed,” Connor told him. “We don’t have to go over right away. He hasn’t always-” Nines was already striding over to Reed’s desk. “-liked androids,” Connor finished.

Nines has to meet him sometime, Connor told himself, walking over to join Nines. Reed’s gaze bounced between Nines and Connor, something like amusement behind his eyes. “Twins, huh? I almost feel bad for Anderson.” Reed finally said.  

“I feel bad for Hank, as well,” Nines said, gesturing to Hank’s desk across from Reed’s. “I suppose it’s too late for him to choose the desk furthest from you.”  

Connor winced. Reed, strangely enough, started to grin, Nines’ antagonism seeming to please him. “He’s even more of smart ass than you,” Reed said in faux awe to Connor.

“I’m not a smart ass,” Connor protested.

“Yes, you are,” Nines and Reed said at the same time. Reed laughed.

“Nines,” Nines said, extending his hand.

Reed took it. “Gavin.”

Connor looked between the two of them, bewildered. What had just happened?

_

Connor should’ve predicted that Nines and Reed would be partnered together. Reed hadn’t had a partner in a few months and Nines was perfectly qualified to work alongside a detective.

“So, how’re you and Reed getting along?” Hank asked, after a few weeks.

“Fine,” Nines said. “Good.”

“I think Fowler’s just pleased you didn’t ask to be re-assigned after one day,” Hank joked.  

Nines smiled. “I don’t give up so easily.”  

“He’s been… civil with you?” Connor ventured.

Nines thought for a moment. “Gavin can be… argumentative at times,” he said. Then, shrugging, “I think he’s realized he’s stuck with me.”

Hank whistled. “Stick with him for a few more weeks and you’ll be the longest Reed has ever kept a partner.”

Connor leaned forward. “You know, if he ever crosses a line-”

Nines waved Connor off. “I can deal with Gavin.”

_

Three months later, and Nines’ statement still rang true. He really could deal with Reed. The precinct had even stopped taking bets on how long they would stay partners.

When Nines and Reed went out on their first few cases alone, Connor hadn’t been able to put down his coin. Watching the pair now, heads bent together over a terminal, talking out possibilities for their latest case, Connor felt silly for ever being worried.

Nines was good for Gavin. The longer Nines was partners with Reed, the less hostile and angry Reed seemed to become. Nines didn’t ‘take any of Reed’s shit’, as Hank liked to put it.

Connor’s sensitive hearing caught Reed’s appreciative “You genius motherfucker-!” after Nines made a particularly clever connection between the evidence they’d gathered.

It was only when Nines grinned, eyes alight at Reed’s words, that Connor considered Reed might be just as good for Nines as Nines was for Reed.

_

Connor got to the hospital as soon as he could. Hank had driven him, squeezing Connor’s hand reassuringly the whole drive. They found Nines in the waiting room, pacing back and forth.

“Nines,” Connor said. “Are you hurt?” He’d never seen Nines look so unkempt, clothes torn and soaked with blood and thirium. The other people in the waiting room kept eyeing him nervously.

“Nothing major,” Nines said, though his LED was red.  

“Sit down,” Connor beckoned. Nines sat, but wouldn’t stop jiggling his leg. Connor didn’t think Nines even realized he was doing it.

“What happened?” Hank asked.  

“Red ice dealers,” Nines said. Connor and Hank nodded in understanding. High humans did not make good judgement calls, especially when they had guns.

“I didn’t have enough time. Gavin. He- he jumped in front of me,” Nines said, like he couldn’t even believe it himself. He looked at Connor with tearful eyes. “I didn’t have enough time,” he repeated.

“It’s gonna be okay,” Connor said.

“My partner was shot,” Nines said sharply.

“But Reed’s alive, right?” Hank asked.

Nines nodded. “They won’t let me see him.”

“They will soon,” Connor assured.

“First time shots are fired is a shock for everyone,” Hank said.

“I just-” Nines stood up and swayed on his feet.

“O-kay,” Hank said, gently pressing Nines back into his seat. “I’ll go find some thirium and Connor will stay with you.”  

Nines deflated in his seat, so different from his usually excellent posture.  

“You know, just because we’re androids doesn’t mean we’re perfect,” Connor said.

Nines looked questioningly at Connor.

“I’m saying, not everything is predictable,” Connor clarified. “It’s okay to mess up, sometimes.” He and Hank had had their fair share of fights over that statement, when Connor was too hard on himself about work. It’d taken Connor a long time to realize that being imperfect was an integral part of being a person.  

“It’s not about that,” Nines said. Connor blinked. “When Gavin got shot, I thought that he was-that he was-” Nines broke off. “Humans are such idiots,” he said miserably.  

Suddenly, something clicked into place for Connor. “Are you and Reed-?”

“Yes,” Nines said.

“That’s- that’s amazing,” Connor choked out.

Nines’ laugh was watery. “I know you don’t really like him.”

“That doesn’t matter,” Connor said quickly.

Then, Hank returned with a pouch full of thirium, handing it to Nines. Hank cocked his head at Connor’s shocked expression just as the doctor arrived. “Later,” Connor whispered.

“Mr. Reed is in stable condition. He’s groggy from the pain medication we’ve administrated. We’ll permit one visitor at a time as to not overwhelm him,” the doctor said.

Nines stood up immediately, following the doctor to a room just off the waiting room.

Connor could hear just the start of their conversation as the door to Reed’s room slowly closed.

“Hey, tincan,” Reed said, voice tired and gentle.

“Don’t ever do that again, asshole,” Nines said, sounding choked up.

“I love you, too,” Reed said, more earnest than Connor had ever heard him.

[whocalledhimannux]

TBATD Chapter 21 Note

~spoilers abound~

So here’s the thing about this ending:

I’ve had it planned from, essentially, the moment I came up with this AU.

I’ve been second-guessing it since that moment.

My personal struggle with this chapter (and, to some extent, the previous three) is because the focus of the plot shifts somewhat--for most of the fic we’ve been firmly with Katara, on how she adjusts to her life in the Fire Nation and her relationship with Zuko. And now the culmination of the plot is essentially on Zuko becoming Fire Lord and Aang becoming the Avatar--which, to be fair, is what happens in canon, too. In my version, Katara also doesn’t technically win her fight with Azula. And up until literally five hours ago, she didn’t fight Azula, because I assumed that Aang would go into the Avatar state in a rage the moment Katara was threatened with lightning, and I was concerned that reducing Katara to a healing role was kinda sexist. Then my dumb ass remembered that I established earlier in the fic that Aang actually does have legit control over the Avatar state in my fic because he’s been working on it for ~two years and it’s totally fine for Katara and Azula to have more back-and-forth until Aang decides to step in.

SO. My worries about internalized sexism have been somewhat assuaged, but I had already written out a shit-ton of meta about this ending so I’m just going to keep at it. Basically I dithered over this for months, but the fundamental ending never actually changed. Every time I tried to think of alternate endings, I came back to the real catalyst for this fic, which is Iroh’s insight from The Old Masters: 

Even if I did defeat Ozai--and I don’t know that I could--it would be the wrong way to end the war. History would see it as just more senseless violence, a brother killing a brother to grab power. The only way for this war to end peacefully is for the Avatar to defeat the Fire Lord…Someone new must take the throne. An idealist with a pure heart and unquestionable honor.

I mentioned this way back in my first chapter note; when I sat down to write this fic, I decided I wanted to change the established world as little as possible. I wanted Katara and Zuko to have all of the issues with each other they had in canon. I wanted the essential position of the Fire Nation and the South Pole to be the same. I wanted their friendships and familial relationships to be the same. I even tried to keep Zuko’s field trips! And I wanted Iroh to still be right about the politics of this slightly altered world.

Throughout the fic, I’ve touched on the ramifications of Iroh’s decision to kill his brother, in his relationship with Zuko, in Azula’s response (albeit hidden until like… now), in the Earth Kingdom and Water Tribes’ perception of the Fire Nation, and a little bit in the Fire Nation’s perception of him as a ruler. Basically, he’s not trusted, nationally or internationally. And while Katara is, in my canon, very very well-liked, there are still some political limitations for her as a princess. So she can’t fix it until she’s Fire Lady--and she can’t be Fire Lady until her husband is the Fire Lord. Hence, Zuko becoming the Fire Lord takes a little bit of the focus in these later chapters.

Annnnnd then we get to the other part of Iroh’s statement, which is that the Avatar needs to be the one to end the war. Yeah. I think, if anything, that’s even more true in my fic than in canon. Think about it from the POV of, say, an Earth Kingdom general: “So, you’re telling me that they’ve had five Fire Lords in the last ~10 years, the first one died under mysterious circumstances after conveniently elevating his second son to the throne, the second one was killed extrajudicially by his brother, the third one was also accused of killing his nephew and abdicated to the fourth, who was then accused of being behind aforementioned assassination and was then usurped by the fifth one in a brawl that’s apparently totally legal by their standards… and I’m supposed to trust these people to be my friends?”

Somehow, I can’t see that working out. But the Avatar stabilizes things. The Avatar brings balance to the world, and is a neutral third party who can truly broker the peace… if and only if the people recognize his authority. Aang, in the world of this fic, disappeared for a hundred years, came back, died, came back again, and has been dicking around for two years while the adults solved all the problems. In canon, the world needed Zuko to be a good Fire Lord and Aang to be a fully realized and respected Avatar in order to achieve a true peace, and I felt that this fic needed those two things too.

I know that, since Aang didn’t appear for a big chunk of this fic, it might seem like a bit of a cop-out, but… I always felt energybending was a bit of a cop-out in canon, too. Sure, it makes sense when you know the broader context, but there was verrrrry little foreshadowing in the show itself prior to the series finale–and least for this fic you had the foreshadowing of canon!

Yes, that does mean that Katara doesn’t WIN-win the agni kai in this fic, but tbh I don’t know if she has to? Something I appreciate about Katara’s growth in the show is that, in Book One, her waterbending abilities and her access to combat instruction are really her main hangups… and then they’re not. From Book Two on, she is recognized as an unquestionable waterbending master and one of the most competent benders in the world, and she feels comfortable in that role--her conflict in the remainder of the show is more about her personal relationships and her “dark side,” so to speak.

The agni kai is a fitting end for her storyline in canon because it happens during the comet, when she should be at a massive disadvantage. Take that away, and like… yeah, Katara beat somebody. What else is new? I don’t think she has to prove her worth in this universe. She’s been living in the Fire Nation, which is comfortable with female fighters and doesn’t assume she’s weak… and she’s been earning a reputation as a total BAMF for the last couple of months.

Katara’s conflicts in this fic have been on those other insecurities: whether bloodbending is wrong, if her anger or resentment are justified, how she fits into this new home, how she connects with her old one, her relationship with Zuko. So the fact that she has showed up, that she’s publicly defended the nation, that she risked her life to save Zuko, those are all things she gets “credit” towards and things that wrap up her main character growth. Katara ending this fic as an incredibly popular Fire Lady with a strong, stable marriage is a win from my perspective.

BONUS: this was my favorite ending for Azula.. I am working on a follow-up fic that will follow Azula. I’ll be upfront with y’all in saying that it is not finished and will not be up for a few months, at LEAST. (The reason I was able to update this fic every two/three days is because I spent four months writing it w/o posting a word.) I always kind of wished we’d seen Azula’s breakdown drawn out a little more in canon, and I was reeeeaaaaally pissed when I saw how Azula was treated in the beginning of The Search. When I considered Azula’s end in this fic (and how she might progress in a follow-up fic), I thought long and hard about what rock bottom would really look like for her, specifically what kind of issues she might be dealing with instead of the generic “craziness” that is treated pretty terribly in the comics, and what recovery would look like.

I think being without her firebending is unquestionably Azula’s rock bottom. Her identity as a prodigy means everything to her. From her perspective, she’s never really been loved by her mother or her uncle or Zuko–it’s all been Ozai, and his love has been predicated on her success. In canon, she got a glimpse of how easily Ozai would turn his back on her, and that’s her real breaking point; in this fic, she never got that, so while she has been dealing with grief in a pretty terrible, unhealthy way, her real breaking point is the loss of The Thing that ties her to her father.

But I think that also offers her the best chance for true recovery and redemption, because it strips her of the delusion that she is perfect and untouchable and doesn’t actually need love. Azula defines herself by her success, and what is she without success? She would say nothing; Katara, Zuko, et al, would say you’re still a person, actually, still a human being deserving of respect and love and forgiveness. My version of energybending and recovery is going to be a bit different than how it plays out in LoK, because Selective Death of the Author, and I think her recovery of her bending in my way will parallel her recovery in general quite nicely.

So. that’s a lot of meta for an ending I changed halfway through. I have spent so much time thinking about this fic and it’s truly been a joy, even when it’s been a pain in the ass. Thank you all so much for sticking with me.

[scoopsohboy]

I Got You Babe || Platonic Richie x Beverly

A/N: This is my first attempt at writing fanfiction in YEARS and my first time ever writing “It” fanfiction. I have a BIG series in mind based in the universe of this fic but, I knew I needed to get this piece written down first. This whole series is inspired by this moodboard post created by asthmaticeddie. Go check it out, Kay is so talented and lovely! My fic would likely be Eddie POV, so I would never get to actually write this scene! So I’m doing it anyway! 

Summary: Richie gets into a fight at a party. Bev has to pick up the pieces. 

Warnings: Mentions of violence, blood and spit, slight internalized homophobia. Angst that becomes fluff.  

Word Count: 1508

Richie had fucked up.

That much was painfully obvious to on-lookers who watched Bev as she escorted him from the party. She flashed her brightest smile whilst moving her newfound responsibility by the collar of his Hawaiian shirt through the throngs of people. Her cheeks were a stark red, a harmonious gradient from her cherry lips to her fiery locks.

She shot a quick look back to where her friends stood, mere feet away from the incident. Eddie and Ben were watching the pair storm away, concern plastered all over their faces. Meanwhile, Bill, Stan, and Mike clearly had a handle on damage control, talking Bowers and Co. down from rushing at Richie. Who, by the way, was just asking to get choke-slammed through a coffee table at this point. The punch across the face was an appropriate escalation.

"Take a picture, it'll last longer!" Richie shouts bitterly, before throwing his empty beer can in their general direction. Bev picks up her pace and tightens her grip.

Despite how it feels as if this crowded college party is never ending, the pair finally make it to the front door. Somehow, Stan had managed to follow the pair through the crowd and put a comforting hand on her shoulder. It didn't fix anything but, the gesture reminded her to inhale, in addition to exhaling. Imagine that. Richie opted to sit on the front porch while he waited for his roommate.

"He's messy tonight," Beverly grumbles, running her hands across her face and up into her hair.

"I don't know what you're talking about," Stanley observes, head cocked, eyes following Richie as he begins to spit excess blood and saliva onto the ground, "He looks normal enough to me," this elicits a soft, tired chuckle from Beverly and Stan cracks a smile, "Seriously, though, do you want any help with him?"

"No, no, Stan the Man, you're good. He's just gonna make it his goal to bother you the entire time anyway."

"Fair," he pulls Bev into a side hug, as they stand in the doorway, watching Richie hock a glob of blood and spit on the pavement once again, "And hey, if you make it through the night, tomorrow we'll get breakfast on me." She hummed her appreciation of his proposal, giving his side one last squeeze before stepping into the threshold of Trashmouth Wrangling.

"Bevvie!" Richie cheered as she stormed past him and towards the car, "We should stop at the store!" He caught up to her within two strides, trying to hold her hand.

“No,” Beverly declared, knowing she was already in for a long night. Richie pouted, before spitting yet again, “Stop it. Get in the car."

Spit.

"Don’t spit again, Richie!"

Spit.

"I swear to God! Stop! Spitting!”

Spit.

She hit her much taller friend on the back of his curly haired head, as he laughed against the cool October night. Upon impact, Richie’s glasses slid down the bridge of his nose, as crooked as the smile playing on his lips. He leaned clumsily against his friend’s dingy Ford Freestyle, the freezing touch of the vehicle cooling him down. His intoxicated laugh had echoed off into whatever residential neighborhood the pair had found themselves in this time. He looked off down the street, expectantly, as if he was waiting for someone to return his drunken call. The quirking edges of his smile faltered as he turned to beam down at the angry redhead. Her perfectly and intentionally sculpted brows arched at his childish display, “You done?”

He smiles wider, full of teeth. He spits on the pavement again before spiraling into hysterical laughter. He had no spit or blood left in his mouth at this point. Just defiance. Beverly extends both of her hands forward and shoves her friend, “How fucking old are you?!” her cry is shrill as she goes to get in the driver’s seat. Richie, knowing that he’s already pushing his luck, gets in the passenger’s seat unprompted. He even buckles his seat belt without a glare required. He leans far back in his seat, “Old enough,” 

“Can you not quote Superbad at me right now? I don’t even know how to get out this fucking neighborhood!" Beverly begs, fiddling with the GPS her aunt had gifted her before the semester had begun.

"Are you mad at me?" Richie asks.

"Yeah, Rich, I'm fucking pissed," the engine revs alive as they pull away from the curb.

"Why? I held on to your hair tie all night, like you asked," he holds his wrist out dramatically, providing evidence. The redhead rolls her eyes, softening slightly. Slightly.

"I'm mad because you couldn't just let that piece of shit have the last word. Just this once!" Bev lectures, "Everything was going fine! We managed to pull Mike out of the library for one Friday night! Ben was socializing while he got us drinks!"

"Bill was going to makeout with you," Richie quips.

"You know what, Trashmouth, maybe he was!"

"He was not. Too nervous,"

"Ah! Irrelevant!" Beverly's face had done this lovely little trick it does when dealing with intoxicated Tozier, where it fluctuates from pale to bright pink to the brink of purple, rinse and repeat, "You did enough showing off for Eddie before Bowers showed up. This didn't do you any favors. I don't think beaten to a pulp is exactly his type,"

This struck a nerve.

Richie fell silent in his seat, suddenly very intrigued by the rolling foliage that whipped passed the window. His hands gripped the sides of his seat, fingers picking at the torn upholstery there. Bev didn't push it; she would remember to yell at him for that later. She glanced over at the lanky man every few minutes, looking smaller every time she did so. His busted lip was pursed into a thin line and his posture was frail, hunched. His chest rose and fell rapidly, the only part of him that was active.

Bev broke the silence, "He's probably worried about you, ya know."

"Why would he be?"

"Rich. I'm your roommate. I'm your friend. Do you think I don't have eyes?" A whine escaped from his lips and he shut his eyes tight at the realization that his secret wasn't much of a secret anymore. She gave her friend a wry smile that was practically audible, as she reached her hand across the center console to hold his, "Or a functioning gaydar?"

The duo laugh at this, Richie letting out a breath he hadn't realized he'd been holding, "Please," he begged, "never use that term," despite how it had alleviated tension between them, it built up a bubble inside him, how quickly this new "quirk" about him gave her the ability to shove him into a box. Bev nods. Richie begins to fiddle with the radio. Despite being drunk off his ass, he was still too sober to be having this conversation.

"Richie...it's not like anyone of us Losers would judge you. Eddie's out and proud-"

"And that's good for Eddie," he cuts her off, wanting to change this conversation as rapidly as he's flipping the channels.

"I just...don't see why you don't just come out and go for it? I have no idea if he likes you back...you're a little polarizing like that. But what is the harm in trying?" Bev wonders, genuine support and a longing to understand in her voice.

"I don't know if there's anything for me to come out as," Richie admits, leaving the radio alone, "I mean...I think Eddie's great. Well...probably more than great. Definitely more than great," he ignores the giggles that emit from Bev, "But...am I really...gay? I couldn't tell you. I've made out with Stan's sister enough back home-" he cuts himself off to respond to Bev's scandalous expression, "you don't know shit-" she throws her head back and laughs, "that there's no way I can't like girls. Do I even need to come out? What does that even mean? Can't I just date who I want? Can't I just make out with who I want at a gross college party, no questions asked?"

Bev shrugs in response, her attitude towards Richie having made a complete 180 since their car ride began, "You got me there," she pulls his hand up to her mouth and let's a kiss linger there until the red light turns green, "We're almost home, Richie, just relax. We can keep talking about this and cuddle on the couch. Or not. Either way, this stays between you and me, bub,"

"What a fuckin' sap," he playfully teases, before turning the volume dial on the radio nearly all the way up. Through the speakers of this behemoth of a car twangs the familiar, funky chords of Sonny and Cher's "I Got You Babe". The two share a look. A look of love and exhaustion and understanding...of the fact that they were about to scream-sing this song until the very last note. This song was a promise. Melodramatic and disco-based. But a promise nonetheless.

[oveliagirlhaditright]

Cherish the Moment - A SoKai Wedding Fic

Rated T. Sora and Kairi get married... Though there's some subverting expectations in here, since it's the only way I could write this--A, because so many others already have and B, because I felt I'd mess it up if I did it any other way--like, there are some moments Kairi's a bit sad that the few feelings she had for Riku will remain a question mark now (and thinks Sora might feel the same way about his feelings for Naminé)... But that really only lasts for five seconds, and can be seen as Kairi wedding jitters, as I swear all of this is really the fluffiest SoKai piece you'll ever read. SoKai, RokuShi, Namiku, Terqua, Gulava, VentusStrelitzia (as well as past PlayerStrelitzia). Slight RiKai and SoNami, but not really, but definitely more of the former, if any. Kind of written by accident when I needed a break from my other stories... and then it snowballed.

Kairi's PoV

As lovely as Kairi’s marriage to Sora was—that she did want more than anything else in that World, and that was a dream come true in so many ways—there was a little part of Kairi, that was sad that the questions she’d once had about Riku and herself would remain exactly that. And she imagined that… even though Sora would never admit it, the side of his heart that still existed in Castle Oblivion felt that about his tangled feelings for Naminé. But it was what it was—since this was real life, and it wasn't perfect, and Kairi wouldn't trade this feeling for the nothingness she’d felt at Sora’s disappearance for the world. Kairi wore something evergreen as her wedding dress—since it was the color she looked best in, and she wanted to look as beautiful as she could for Sora. ….Also, because Kairi had lost her virginity to Sora a long time ago, and she wasn’t going to lie or feel ashamed about it—and in order to match her, her sun was wearing a yellow tuxedo: that reminded Kairi of the bog world she and Sora had recently visited, that made her happy. Of all places they could've gotten married, the couple had chosen Monstropolus' laugh factory, for Kairi had thought if they got married in front of all the running doors, it could make a lovely sight. And it had. The two had also gotten Barbossa to marry them (when King Mickey had said he would be too nervous to do so). That had been Sora's idea… and Kairi got the sense that it was largely because he had been inspired by Will and Elizabeth’s wedding, who he thought they were like. Which was beyond sweet... And seeing the man's humorous reaction to this new world—before Sora and Riku had nearly instantly shoved him back through a Corridor of Light—had been more than funny to Kairi. But he'd actually officiated for them perfectly, in asking Sora if Kairi was the Elizabet to his Will or Calypso to his Davy Jones… But when Barbossa had begun talking about Sora and Kairi’s upcoming wedding night, Sora and Riku had furiously made him vacate the premises… and despite everything, Kairi had laughed. Even while she’d tried to defend the pirate from her husband and big brother (because yes, that was what Riku really was to her) But after that drama—right after they’d been married—Sora and Kairi had rode atop one of the doors together for a while—with both of them kicking their legs to and fro as it moved beneath them, like they’d both rocked on the paopu tree all those years ago. And while both Kairi and Sora felt somewhat bad that they were keeping their joy from everyone else, by having this special and private moment… they contended themselves with the fact that every other married couple would have been getting pictures away from everyone else at this point, anyway. "But maybe we shouldn't be doing this," Sora eventually said with a chuckle. "I mean, your wedding dress is so impractical for writing doors on, Kai. You might fall right off! And the last thing I want, is for my wife to die on our wedding day." But at this point that Sora had said this, the door had already reached its destination—sort of making Sora's words moot—but Kairi couldn't help teasing her love about it, all the same. "It's okay, Sora. Wielding the Keyblade gives us mastery over gravity, remember? That's how I fought in a dress in The Castle That Never Was. So, I’ll be fine if we want to do this again." But right now, they had bigger fish to fry. So Kairi walked towards Boo's door. The spouses had planned to go visit Boo during their wedding—because they'd wanted everyone they loved to be able to attend. And Kairi adored her, now that she’d gotten to meet her a few times. But now that she and Sora were at her door, planning to go through, Kairi found herself second-guessing if this was a good idea at all. They didn’t want to risk spooking the girl’s parents, who still somehow didn’t know about other worlds… "Sora," Kairi started, as she with loving eyes pulled him away from the door he'd just opened. “We can maybe disturb Boo later… But don't you think we should go see the rest of our friends for a little bit before our honeymoon? Sora didn't have to be asked twice; Kairi had sensed that he was missing Riku, after all. When the two of them got back to the Laugh Floor—where their ceremony had taken place—the lovers could see that Riku was trying to see if Naminé would eat the lemon meringue pie, if he got rid of the gooey bits from it, that she didn't like. …Riku and Naminé were wonderful for each other, and Kairi was honestly glad that they had each other... And Naminé ending up accepting Riku's offer was just further proof of that, in her eyes. And what were Sora and Kairi’s other friends doing right now? Most of the ones with responsibilities in other parts of the galaxy had left already. But some were still here. Like right now, Kairi could see that Ariel was thrilled that she could be part human, part mermaid in a monster form here if she wished... Aladdin was trying to stop Abu from stealing things, it appeared (though this was unnecessary, as both Kairi and Sora had told their guests that they were welcome to any of the decorations the two of them had brought here), and Kairi was glad when Xion kept reminding him that it was fine... Hercules was trying to convince Mike and Sully that they might as well have statues of themselves put up here in their world, like he had a few of his own in Olympus. And the Restoration Committee was trying to see if they could use the door system themselves, as some part of the defense mechanism. And a Lightning was wondering why just because a "Tron" (who had thankfully been restored!) had added a data version of her to his system, the real her had been invited to this wedding… Kairi didn’t even know the answer to that herself, but the more the merrier! Right? As for everyone else... Roxas was by Xion’s side in the whole Abu and Aladdin scenario. The former Nobody did seem somewhat sad that Xion was paying all her attention to it, instead of him… But since it was for Xion, it was clear that he was happy to be doing whatever she was. Terra and Aqua were dancing, and it made Kairi ponder whether or not they'd now decided they saw each other as more than siblings, after all. Lauriam and Ven were… comforting Strelitzia over Player's death. And Kairi once again thought about telling the poor dear that she hadn't had to come here—and that she could leave whenever she wanted to—but that she and Sora were both thankful she had come at all... And Lea, and Isa were catching up with Skuld at the punch table... And it looked as though King Mickey, Donald, Goofy, and Master Yen Sid were working on some amazing fireworks for Sora and herself? "Where do we even begin?" Sora asked nervously, as he scratched his ear. Kairi imagined that Sora probably wanted to go help with the fireworks display, but given his tendency to sometimes make things blow up—like those blasters back at The World That Never Was—Kairi didn’t know if that was the best idea. "Say, Kairi… what do you say we go talk to Ava first? Is it me, or does she seem lonely?" And Ava did seem that way. And Kairi got the sense that while the woman was thrilled, that what she’d done had helped to lead everyone here... that she was beginning to think what the Master of Masters had been after similar things, after all, and that maybe she had been wrong to kill him. And as soon as they approached Ava, she was telling them just that. "It's a beautiful wedding you’re having, Sora, Kairi... but my father should have been here, since he created all of this. But he isn't... and that’s my fault." '…Except that, as great as your father was… I think he did go insane from it all and would have destroyed the world, if you hadn't stopped him,' Kairi wanted to say, but didn’t. And judging by how Sora kept opening his mouth and shutting it again, Kairi thought that her other heart felt much the same way. But instead, she enveloped the girl in her arms--that Sora watched with a proud twinkle in his eye before he’d turned away from them, Kairi had seen. Perhaps he was about to find Gula and tell him to make sure his girlfriend was happy –and told her what was in her heart. "I get where you're coming from, Ava. Really, I do. And joyful times can make you think of all those who you've lost, who you wish could be there for you, too. …But I think you're looking at this in the wrong way. You've got to think about all that you have! Like your dear friends Gula, Invi, Aced, and Ira... and all of the various Key Kids who found their way here; and how you're now friends with us: the new guard when it comes to the Light, and together we've created some beautifulthings." And there was also the answer to Kairi’s own problem, wasn't it? She had been somewhat focusing on the teeny, tiny bit that she and Sora were losing in getting married—since they had had other feelings for others in the past—that she’d missed that, despite everything, she was finally tied with the love of her life in every way she had wanted to... and that meant more than all of the munny in the world ever could. And her words must have had the intended result of getting through to Ava, too, Kairi saw, because the older woman wiped her tears away... smiled at Kairi and Sora, as he joined them with Gula being pulled behind him, and said, "You’re right, Kairi. And in my heart, I’m still a leader to the Dandelion children. So why am I becoming undone, when I should be comforting Strelitzia--who's already lost so much!—about her love? If you'll excuse me, I'm going to go do that right now. Thank you, my King and Queen." Kairi blushed at that title she and Sora had been given after everything they'd done (Riku and Naminé had even been given some, too), but didn't let it show. Instead, she admired how at that exact moment, Gula had chosen to kiss Ava on the cheek—to show her that she was cared for, but not distract her too much from her mission; or so Kairi guessed—while Ven had chosen to kiss Strelitzia full on the mouth, who was responding positively while Lauriam was not. So suddenly feeling very much in love for a few reasons, Kairi leapt into her precious Sora's arms—wrapping her legs around his waist, as he caught her at the last minute after her surprise attack. "Sora, you know what I just realized?” Kairi asked, as she leaned close to Sora and prayed to Kingdom Hearts to give her strength to say these next words, since she was a terrible dancer. “We've been lame! in not giving everyone our first dance yet!" Sora chuckled at this, as he leaned his forehead against Kairi’s own and looked deep into her eyes with loving ones of his own. “Then let’s go give them a show, Mrs.” And everyone around them must have realized what they were finally about to do, because Terra wolf-whistled, and Riku called out with a hand over his mouth, "Dance already, you two! You've already broken tradition by having the other couples do so before you!" Sora stuck his tongue out at Riku for that one. So in wanting to everything wedding the traditional way now, Kairi let Sora lead her onto the dance floor—and he winked at her in a way that made a shiver run down Kairi’s spine in the best way possible—and she prepared to do a nice, slow dance with Sora... only for the song to change to the Cupid Shuffle. And Kairi and Sora cracked up, as they once again leaned their foreheads against each other’s, but also held both of each other’s hands this time while doing so. After dancing to the song by themselves very shortly, Kairi and Sora motioned for everyone to come onto the dance floor with them... which Kairi was glad for—since it would hopefully distract everyone how she always messed up timing or did the wrong thing in this song. But Sora was a godsent when it came to making her look good at dancing, and somehow seemed charmed by her bad movements, so it was a win-win. Fortunately, the Cha-Cha slide came on right after the Cupid Shuffle—that Kairi knew better than any other dance—and she was able to redeem herself some. And seeming to realize she wanted to leave the dance floor on a high note, Sora asked with the kind of kindness he’d had in his eyes when he’d told Chirithy she’d made him remember how good it was to experience things with a friend, "Want to give everyone else the dance floor now?" And Kairi shouted "Yes!" faster than anything she'd ever said in her life, since—as it was—her feet were starting to kill her in these high heels, too. Sora, truly being a psychic, swept Kairi up off her feet before she could even voice the thought. And she leaned her head into his shoulder, like a soldier coming home for the first time in ages. It was at this time that everyone seemed figure out that they were ready to leave. So there were last minute goodbyes (Roxas pretended to cry that his brother was all grown up—and this had gotten a kick out of everyone—nevermind the fact that Sora was older than he was), thank yous, and promises to see each other again soon....As well as Kairi trying to give away some of the lantern decorations that she and Sora had bought for the event... But soon enough, everything was sorted out and Sora and Kairi were leaving in the gummi ship to go somewhere magical for their honeymoon, as all of their friends waved at them... and it was then that Kairi promptly passed out in Sora's arms... all the planning, stress, and exhausting—though perfect day—having finally gotten to her. … When Kairi later awoke, it wasn't to her and Sora's honeymoon location—as nice as that would have been; and Sora was still keeping it a secret where they were even going—but to their room in their gummi ship. And Kairi had to say... even if there was always a part of her that would slightly prefer being home, she could certainly get used to waking up in their bed in the gummi ship together. Sora’s scent was all over the blankets and it was lovely; Kairi had to resist the urge to roll herself back up into them and go to sleep again, even. But Sora must have sensed what she was about to do, because he stole her blankets away from her before she could get too comfortable and Kairi glared at him... before descending into a fit of giggles. "Hey, Kairi!" Sora was laughing himself. "You can't go back to sleep yet! I mean... here I am, somewhat carelessly leaving the ship in autopilot to make sure I was by your side when you first woke up after we were married. And you don't even care? C'mon! Where's the Kairi who jumped through Corridors of Darkness to see me?" Suddenly feeling more awake now, and giddy, and even somewhat like their younger selves, Kairi sat with her knees on the black mattress, and spared Sora a glance and a thought. "You're right... I'm not appreciating this moment enough at all. I should be calling you a 'lazy bum', and slapping you upside the head... Or actually, not doing that, because I'm a sensible girl who knows how to deal with her feelings now, outside of physically hurting the object of my affections. Especially since I need no excuse to touch you now. Eep!" And even before Kairi herself knew it—and she was the one who had done this!—she was flying through the air and then in Sora's arms, as she peppered kiss after kiss on every inch of his face, neck, and shoulders. And when he gently pushed her away from himself—while still smiling stupidly—Kairi could tell that he’d been getting distracted, too. But Sora somehow got himself back under control soon, to which Kairi could only frown. "Kairi… not now. The gummi ship will crash. And we're saving this for our special honeymoon, remember?" Kairi wanted to do anything but let Sora go. But as she recalled how Riku and Naminé's ship had been nearly destroyed by Heartless not so long ago, she thought that being cautious probably was for the best. "…Okay, Sora. Go pilot the gummi ship—and take me to wherever this glorious new world is—and I'll get us breakfast." Kairi, who had been moved by Sora's cooking at the bistro, almost hated that she was going to make stuff for them now... instead of letting the professional chef make food for her. But she also thought it was only fair, since he was apparently going all out for her in another way. And besides, she was quite the cook herself, wasn't she? Hadn't she found many neat ways to cook fruit on the island, that Sora and Riku had adored? Kairi got her answer to that question soon enough, when Sora told her "Yes, please do that, Kairi! And bring out the fruit flavor even more in the orange chicken, as you do!" And then Sora was diving for the control panel, as both he and Kairi saw an asteroid heading their way. And the Keyblade master got the ship to move in just the nick of time. Kairi laughed. As much as, in some ways, she didn't want it to be... this was kind of like old times: like when Sora had been driving the gummi ship after saving her from Hollow Bastion, and Kairi had been left asking Goofy what she could do to help him at all, while the brunet and Donald had fought about who was driving. And as much as Kairi had grown since then and was thrilled by it, because she never wanted to lose her friends again but to rather be their equal... She still liked being cherished by Sora like this—especially the day after their wedding—and if creating non-breakfast food was her part of the bargain to have that feeling, then she'd gladly do it. And she did. And the happy couple ate merrily. When they were done? Sora was pointing out to her the biggest amusement park she could have ever imagined! "Is this where we're going, Sora? It seems so fun! Oh! What's that ride that looks like a skyscraper, and-" Kairi got her answer to that question when she saw the "elevator" within the false building rocket back down to ground level from a horrifying height. "...You know, Kairi, weirdly enough... I must have somehow drawn on the imagery of this place when I developed my Attraction Flow. Or something. Like, I almost wanted to make an attack like that skyscraper—like a guillotine, almost—but I didn't." Huh. That was odd. Kairi really didn’t know what forces governed the multiverse—so maybe all things happened for a reason—but even so, there was at least one thing she didn’t want to talk about in that... "I'm all for us being entertained by roller coasters as part of our honeymoon, Sora... But can we stop talking about beheadings, please? I think I’m going to be sick." And not needing to say anymore to convince him, Sora gently took Kairi’s hand in his own and began leading her through the exit… and the moment Kairi’s feet touched the ground, she was already having so much fun! She ran on the cobblestone to where she could get funny little hats, and then motioned with her eyes that she and Sora should go to the castle towering above them next! Which they did. And as the two of them had always wanted to fly with one another, they went on a ride together of soaring elephants. And it reminded Kairi of that “Dumbo” Sora had summoned on his first journey. She had seen this while being in his heart. And Kairi made sure to point this out to Sora, as she leaned as close to him in the seat as she could—even getting out of her own seatbelt, so she could be within his. Once they exited that attraction, one of the workers seemed annoyed with what Kairi had done... but upon seeing the rings on her and Sora's fingers, shook his head and seemed to imagine it was only expected of newlyweds. Or so Kairi guessed, since he let them walk by without chewing them out in the slightest. Then, Sora was amazed by something called vanilla ice cream—since the two of them had only had seasalt and chocolate before—and in trying it herself, Kairi decided it was every bit as good as Sora said it was. And after that, Sora and Kairi discovered something called "race cars" in a place called “Autopia”, that neither could get enough of. But too soon after that—or perhaps not soon enough—they were back in their hotel room (that had aesthetics they both loved. Kairi partly loved them because there were pictures of Sora here somehow! Maybe the two of them really were somehow connected to this place and the multiverse was trying to show them it). And then Sora and Kairi were worshipping each other's bodies, lazily, as warm air spilled into the room. They'd both been slow and nervous with each other when they’d started, almost like it was their first time again, but then they’d found their way—as they always did with each other—and had just opted to make slow love. "And to think we can start every morning like this, Kairi," Sora said sweetly, as he kissed her lips and the morning sun spilled in. "Mmm. That’s the most perfect thing I can think of," Kairi answered back… “Well, aside from a few other things to make this even better”, Kairi said cheekily, as she sat up and her lips started going down, down, down Sora’s body. And in a world where anything could be torn away from them in any given moment—including each other, as they both knew well—knowing that they could wake up together for a while really was the best feeling in the world. And Kairi cherished it.

[certifiedmoth]

Tell Me Your Troubles

Duncan Shepherd x Reader

Summary: Y/N and Duncan’s ‘relationship’ takes a hit after reader finds out something shocking about him.

Notes: This is my first attempt at a fic, so bear with me, y’all!! I was thinkin’ about Duncan the other day and this is what came out of that, enjoy!, the POV switches throughout, just an fyi :-)))

Warnings: Angst!!, smut, oral (male receiving), unprotected sex, daddy!kink, hints of cheating, fluff sprinkled throughout

Word Count: 5.7K

Credit to @codylangdon for their lovely gif

You had been dating Duncan for a while, neither of you putting a label on it or saying you were exclusive. However, things were shifting that way as you were spending more and more time with him, staying over at his apartment all the time (practically living there), cooking meals together, him taking you on sweet dates and overall loving each other’s company. Neither of you really enjoyed talking about your feelings, yet it was an unspoken thing that you both took whatever it was between the two of you seriously.

You had a particularly exhausting day at work and gave Duncan a call just wanting to curl up with your favorite brunette and forget about the day. He explained to you that he had plans to go out with his friends, but that you were welcome to stay over and that he wouldn’t be out too late. You couldn’t be mad that he already had plans. He was a busy guy after all.

You got to his apartment shortly after, picking up takeout on the way. You used the key he gave you to open his heavy door and was greeted by silence. He had already left and the absence of him being there suddenly weighed on you as you told yourself to stop overreacting. You had only been “dating” him a couple of months and neither of you had really confessed your true feelings for the other, so you tried to quiet that voice in you whenever you got too head over heels for the boy. Having struggled with love and been hurt in the past, you were more than happy to take things slow. Opening yourself up to someone and inviting them in only for you to get your heart broken was something you told yourself you wouldn’t let happen again. So, at the slightest hint of betrayal or indifference from the other person, you would instantly lock your heart up and push them away.

Sitting down at his table, you started to eat the pad thai you brought over. Before long, you were lounging on his couch watching some documentary that barely held your attention. Looking at the clock it said 10:37pm and you were getting more and more tired, so you decided to get ready for bed, already missing the cute brunette with the piercing blue eyes that always made your heart do flips. You found the extra pair of pajamas he always keeps for you in his drawer and slipped them on. You were feeling particularly needy however, so you ransacked his closet for one of his comfy shirts you could wear. He loved it when you wore his clothes. Always saying how sexy you looked with one of his shirts draped over you, hanging off of your body. Getting in his big, comfortable bed, you layed there for quite some time just staring up at the ceiling. Lost in your own thoughts about the day’s activities, you turned on your side to look at his alarm clock which now read 11:24pm. You sighed and got out of the bed, feeling how small and alone the empty bed made you feel.

The living room couch would have to do. It was pretty comfortable, all things considered. However, it wasn’t exactly what you had in mind for tonight. Your thoughts of sleep were cast away, accepting that you wanted to stay up to see cute brunette. You played games on your phone. You read through some of his magazines. You flipped through the tv. Nothing really catching your attention, you layed down on the couch and got lost in your thoughts again.

~

You were thinking about something your coworker had said that day when you heard the door unlock and Duncan stumble inside. You glanced at the clock that now read 1:31am, quickly frowning, but abandoning any resentment you had once settling your eyes on the cute, drunk man in front of you. He smiled at you as you walked over to him and quickly wrapped his arms around you, holding you for a bit longer than he normally would have. ‘Sorry I’m late” he mumbled into your hair. And that was when you smelled it. A very distinct sweet and floral scent that lingered on him. Somebody else’s perfume. Still encased in his arms, you furrowed your brows and slowly backed your head away to get a good look at him. Your mind was thinking of every possible reason he could have smelt that way. You decided not to think much of it, looking up at him smiling and letting go of his waist. He ran his hands through his hair, ‘You really didn’t have to stay up, you should have went to sleep.’ You could hear from his voice just how drunk he actually was, but also how he tried to hide it from you and you just chuckled at him.

‘I couldn’t sleep anyways’, he pouted like a child at your words, earning a real laugh from you. And that’s when you saw it. The lipstick mark on his neck. How did you miss it before? The pink mark sitting on his skin, taunting you. You quickly turned around, not wanting to reveal that you had seen it or any emotion you were actually feeling.

‘I’m going to go to bed now, it’s been a long day,’ you grimaced. Him so obliviously unaware shouted back at you, ‘Kay! Be there soon.’ Minutes pass and you’re lying on your side in his cold bed, silently freaking out. Too many thoughts were going through your head and you scolded yourself for getting involved with this man who had a reputation. You were starting to catch feelings, deep feelings, and it hurt you to know that he clearly didn’t feel the same way, if he was hooking up with other people. And when he said he was with the boys, was he lying? You were ripped from your thoughts as he fell on the bed rather violently and you felt the space behind you on the bed dip. He wrapped his arms around you, nuzzling his nose into the crevice in your neck and sighed with pleasure. You lay there paralyzed, unable to move.

~

Duncan’s POV

I woke up, a slight throbbing in my head. Groaning, I turned around expecting to see her beautiful face, but she wasn’t there. I lifted my head from the pillow, looking around, displeased with the silence. Maybe she was in the bathroom? Or in the kitchen, making breakfast? I thought, ‘that must be it.’ Getting out of bed, I made my way to the kitchen searching for my elusive girl, who so cheekily thought she could leave me alone in this huge bed all by myself. I was prepared to see her enjoying a cup of tea, as she sometimes did in the morning, but instead I was greeted by more silence and an empty apartment.

‘Y/N?’ I shouted. No reply.

Walking back to the bedroom, I grabbed my phone that was still in the pocket of my pants from the night before, lazily thrown to the ground. Some messages and emails from work, but nothing from my girl. I quickly dialed her number, but nothing. Deciding on text afterwards, I messaged ‘Where are you?’ I told myself to calm down and that maybe something came up and she had to leave early. She’s never done this before though and wouldn’t she have left a note? I made my way back to the kitchen, making coffee to try and calm my nerves as I waited for her reply.

~

Y/N’s POV

8:16am Duncan: Where are you?

You had seen that he tried to call, but you ignored your phone, not knowing what to say if put on the spot. You had never left his place before he woke up, it just wasn’t something you guys did. You waited to reply to his message, wanting to find the right words that wouldn’t create too much suspicion. You, at this point, since your discovery last night, were in the process of trying to shut down your feelings for Duncan. You were not going to be hurt by this man, you decided on that. You wouldn’t give him the chance to fully break your heart. If he wanted to play games, so could you. Deciding from this point on, to be more distant and keep things casual, as a way to not get hurt, you opened your phone to reply to him.

Looking at your screen and his message, you replied, ‘I woke up early and missed my bed, so I left. Plus, I had an early start at work today, lots to do. Sorry!’ Just enough cold and distance in the message to maybe hurt him a bit, if he even cared that was. But, I thought the message was casual enough that he wouldn’t have a reason to argue about it.

He immediately replied and you stared at your phone, ‘I could have set an alarm, if you had to get up early. But, alright… I get it, I guess. Have a great day at work, doll.’ Doll was his nickname for me. I adored it, but also desperately wanted to hear the words ‘baby’ or ‘my love’ come out of his mouth at least once, but we just weren’t there yet. And now, I guess we never would be if we were playing these games with one another.

~

A day goes by and they don’t talk which isn’t unusual, considering how busy they both are and the status or their “relationship”. Neither of them think much about it, both of them drowning in work. The next day he calls her on his lunchbreak and she answers which he’s grateful for.

‘Ms. Y/L/N.’

‘Why hello there, Mr. Shepherd,’ she replies and he is reminded of how lovely her voice is.

‘So, I’m sitting here in my office and my assistant brings me some cacio e pepe from that little Italian place we went to a couple of weeks ago and I just had to give you a ring and hear your voice,’ he charmingly smiles into the phone.

Her heart flutters at his words, but she remembers the other night and needs to play it cool and not give into his charm. ‘Wow Duncan, thrilling story… You should totally write a book. It’d be a real page turner.’ And she can hear him laughing as she continues, ‘You know, I had pizza yesterday. Do you think I should have called my dad because we occasionally eat pizza together, too?” she smiles, satisfied with her sass.

Chuckling, he says, ‘Alright, alright. Are you always this much of a pain in the ass with everyone? Or is it just with me?’

‘Only with those who can handle it. Don’t tell me you’re losing your touch,’ she quips back.

‘Never. I can handle anything you throw at me.’ His heart feels full at the conversation he’s having with the girl of his dreams.

She frowns, takes a while to respond and when she does it’s a simple ‘mhmmm.’

He waits, thinking she’ll say more but when she doesn’t and the air becomes a bit awkward, he chimes in, ‘I’m sorry about coming home so late last night. Can I see you? Are you free anytime soon?’

She ignores the first part, ‘Yeah, I’m free Friday night. I can come over and hangout, if you’d like?’

‘Damn,’ he sighs, instantly hating himself. ‘I have an event that night-‘

‘I don’t mind dressing up,’ she giggles, heart racing at the thought of them going together.

‘Actually, and I’m so sorry about this, but I have to go with the daughter of this senator Annette is trying to get close to. I don’t really have a say in the matter.’

‘Oh no no, don’t worry about it. I totally get it. Have fun.’ She plays it off as being no big deal, but in reality is feeling crushed and a little humiliated by how excited she let herself sound.

‘I’m sorry, I would take you if I could...’

She thinks it’s just something for him to say, to make the conversation less awkward.

‘Hey don’t worry about it, you can go with whoever you want, I don’t really care,’ she laughs it off and he can sense the irritation in her voice.

‘Y/N, I promise it’s not like that,’ his voice is soft.

She tries to cover up her true feelings, ‘No! I didn’t mean it like that, the whole gala thing is okay, honestly, it’s cool,’ she forces her voice to sound carefree.

They decide on spending Saturday night together at his place and she rolls her eyes at the stupidity of the conversation after she hangs up.

~

I pull up to his place and take a deep breath, composing my thoughts, before I knock on his door. I hear footsteps and he opens the door with a wide grin. I hold up the bottle of wine I brought over with a smile plastered on my face, ignoring how his arms were open and clearly expecting me to step into his arms for a hug. I waltz in as he tries to give me a kiss, instead walking past and placing the bottle on the counter. He exclaims a loud ‘Hey!’ and I turn around with wide eyes.

‘What? Do you not like this brand?’ I laugh.

‘I wanted a kiss, c’mere,’ he pulls you into his arms.

‘Oh sorry,’ I chuckle and he leans down with his arms around my waist as I quickly peck his lips. He frowns but lets it go as I turn around already inspecting the food he’s prepared for us.

‘Are you finally going to poison me tonight?’ I ask, the corners of my mouth raising.

‘Ha ha, very funny. If I wanted to poison you, you would never know about it until it was too late and I also would definitely never actually admit to it,’ he smirked earning a laugh from you.

They sit down together, enjoying the meal in front of them. They talk about normal stuff, how their day was, what’s going on at work, briefly about the gala from the night before. Turns out it was “uneventful” and his date was “boring”, but your heart still clenched in your chest not knowing if you should believe what the man next to you was telling you. You both continue with your conversation, going over Duncan’s work week, when he reaches over and grabs your hand, pulling it into his own as he starts to rub circles on your skin with his thumb. You try to take no notice of it and instead of immediately yanking it back from him, you leave it there for a couple of seconds before reaching up to move a strand of hair from your face, just an excuse to not have your hand intertwined with his. The affection and sweet gesture was a slap in the face when you thought about the lipstick mark. Lately, it was all you could think of and you were upset with yourself for letting it drive you as crazy as it did. You so desperately wanted to be the cool and un-feeling type when it came to Duncan now, not giving him the chance to hurt you, but it still stung every time he tried to show affection. You felt that he must think you were a fool to easily fall for his charm and give him exactly what he wanted. But, you weren’t going to do that anymore. This was the new and improved Y/N, who didn’t fall head over heels for the guy, who wouldn’t let them use her heart. He frowned, however, at the loss of warmth in his hand. Holding her hand was one of his favorite things. He loved how soft she was, and how tiny her hand felt in his. He decided to not dwell on how she pulled her hand a little too fast from his, thinking that she was maybe just having an off night. Her week at work did sound wild after all, so maybe she was just preoccupied with the stress of that.

~

After putting the dishes in the sink, I walk over to the couch that Duncan has just plopped onto. His feet are up on the coffee table and his left arm stretched out on the top of the sofa, clearly an invitation for me to snuggle up to him. I try to pay no attention to this as he’s flipping through channels. I sit a couple of feet away from him and he looks over at me, offended but makes a joke about it, ‘I swear, I’m not contagious, you little brat,’ he throws a pillow at you, still pretending to be fake hurt by your actions, when in reality his heart felt a sharp pain at your distance.

‘What! I just need to digest my food,’ I play it off, laughing and catching the pillow thrown at me, hugging it to my chest. He scoots over and puts his arm around me, then. I love the warmth, but try not to show it.

He loves being this close to her, but she’s stiff as a board and it breaks his heart. He wonders if he’s done something wrong or maybe she’s not as serious about their relationship as he is. What if she doesn’t have the same feelings for him as he has for her? He thinks about the possibility of that and he feels that sharp pain in his heart again.

They lay there like that for what seems like a long time to both of them, just losing themselves in whatever nonsense is playing on the screen, when he leans down and starts kissing her neck as slowly as he can. He’s missed the way her skin feels on his lips and he is savoring every second of it. He continues on and she is completely melting from his affection but is doing everything she can to not show it. He doesn’t notice at first how unaffected she appears to be, having been so lost in the beauty and feel of her, until he stops and notices how still she is. No hand in his hair, no whimpers coming from her mouth, her eyes that would usually be closed in pleasure are intensely focused on the screen in front of her. Just as he’s about to ask if she’s okay, she turns to him and smiles. And every concern he has melts away as he’s met with her beauty. She, then, yanks his hand and pulls him down the hall hastily. He isn’t happy that she’s rushing, but is happy to finally have his hand in hers as she whisks him away to the bedroom.

She’s pulling her clothes off too fast for his liking. He wanted to savor this, but she seems to want to go fast. He’s just happy that he’s finally getting some affection from her, his sweet girl. Once their clothes are long forgotten, she pushes him onto the bed and he smirks up at her. He’s usually the one taking charge, but this is a different side of her that he doesn’t get to see often. Something seems off, though, and he can’t quite put his finger on it. Before he knows it, her pretty little mouth is around his cock. He’s lost in the pleasure of how soft her lips are and how good she always makes him feel.

~

Minutes pass of this and she is insatiable, it appears. ‘Fuck, Y/N. Slow down.’

She continues, ignoring his words.

‘Y/N,’ he says a bit more sternly, but accompanied with a soft groan from the back of his throat, she doesn’t let up. He grabs onto her hair and yanks her head back, smiling and looking into her wild eyes.

‘Doll, what are you trying to do to me?’ he chuckles.

She hums at his words and makes her way up to his chest, sitting on him, legs on either side of his waist. She can feel him pulsing underneath her and she grinds down on him, both of them groaning at the pleasure. He sits up to try and take her mouth in his, wanting nothing more than to feel her soft lips on his, but she just pushes him down again and she swears she hears him growl. His grip on her hips almost hurts and she can tell how badly he wants her. After all, isn’t this why he puts up with her? He just wants her for sex, right? Her irrational thoughts telling her that he’s just here to have a good time. Well, she can give him that. She takes his cock in her hand and she feels it twitch with anticipation. She lines it up with her entrance and slowly lowers herself onto him. His head is thrown back at the feeling and she thinks for a second that she’s looking at an angel. She snaps herself from her thoughts and starts to ride him. Slowly at first and then picking up her rhythm. With her hands on his chest and her eyes screwed shut in pleasure, he swears he’s in love. She’s going fast and he loves it, god, does he love it, but, he wanted to take his time with her tonight.

‘Y/N, look at me, darling,’ her eyes open wide at the new nickname, and she all but stops. He sits up and reaches for her face with one hand, closing the distance between their faces. The kiss is slow and passionate and both of them melt, Y/N weakly giving in just for a moment, unable to remove herself from this angelic man.

‘May I?’ he asks and her face twists in confusion. He quickly flips them both over, so that he’s resting on top of her. He could never get tired of seeing his girl so blissfully fucked out underneath him. He makes sure to take his time and kiss just about every inch of her body. He’s working on her neck, knowing it’s her sweet spot, when she whimpers his name.

‘Duncan, please. Stop playing around, I want you now,’ her voice a sweet whisper.

He raises an eyebrow at her, but does as he’s told, not being able to resist her when she looks like this.

He enters her and is painfully slow about it, she thinks. She’s having difficulty dealing with the painful and intrusive thoughts in her head about Duncan, but also with how good he feels in her. She knows now that she will never be able to give him up, and that makes her want to cry. She knows that she loves this man, but refuses to accept it. How can she when she knows that she’s just a toy for him? She looks anywhere that isn’t directly at him and his heart hurts again, noticing how she won’t look at him. How can she make him feel so fucking amazing, but also break his heart at the same time?

‘Can you flip me around? I want it from behind,’ she tries to pick up the pace.

‘But, I want to look at you,’ he says a little hurt. ‘Please…’ he pleads with her softly, nuzzling his nose into her neck, placing small kisses here and there. She’s insisting though and he just mutters a quick and angry ‘Fine.’

He flips her around, a small scream escaping her lips in the process. He thrusts into her, not giving her anytime to adjust and sets his fast and brutal pace. She can barely hold onto the sheets and hears the headboard slamming against the wall in a dangerous way that was sure to leave marks. She doesn’t even recognize the sounds coming out of her and it only pushes him to go further.

‘Is this what you wanted? My little slut,’ he spits out.

She nearly cries at his harsh words, but it only makes her want him more.

She’s practically screaming his name and he loves the way it sounds. He can feel that she’s close, he knows his girl’s body so well. He slows his pace a bit and reaches around to put an arm around her. He’s thumbing circles around her clit which makes her see stars.

He leans down and growls into her ear, ‘I want you to cum all over my cock, princess.’ He thrusts into her particularly hard, ‘Be good for Daddy.’ He feels her clench around him and she’s a moaning mess. The last thing she says before the coil in her stomach snaps is his name and that’s enough to send him over the edge, too. He releases himself into her and cums more than he thinks he ever has and he waits a second before pulling out of her, watching both of their juices drip out of her. He gazes at the sight in front of him before falling onto his back next to her with an exhausted ‘Fuck.’ The only sounds in the room are them trying to catch their breaths.  He looks over at her and her eyes are closed as he leans over and pulls her into him. With her arms wrapped around him and her head resting on his chest, he kisses the top of her head and thanks whatever god is responsible for bringing her into his life. Throughout the night, his concerns with Y/N grew and grew until his heart was too close to breaking. But now, his girl was in his arms and everything was right in the world.

~

A couple of minutes pass by and she starts to get up, but his grip on her tightens. ‘What are you doing?’ she can hear the strain in his voice.

‘I have an early morning,’ is all she says. Everything around him stops and everything is too still. He’s afraid that his heart finally gave out and those couple of words were all it took to shatter it.

‘But, you always stay over… We can wake up early, it’ll be okay, please just stay…’ she refuses to meet his eyes as she’s getting off the bed and gathering some of her things.

Putting her shirt back on, she mutters a small ‘No, I should g-go.’ He doesn’t understand why she stuttered, but he’s seeing red now. She can’t leave. She can’t just leave him and hurt him like this.

Jumping out of bed, he wraps a small blanket that was nearby around his waist and storms over to Y/N, ‘What is going on?! You’ve been distant all night,’ he grabs onto her shoulders and forces her to sit on the edge of the bed. She doesn’t have any energy to fight back and just lets him, still refusing to look at him, afraid he’ll see the tears starting to form in her eyes. He gets down on his knees in front of her, gripping on to her hips afraid that if he doesn’t he’ll lose her forever. He continues, ‘You’ve been distant and cold all night, you won’t even touch me or look at me, you didn’t kiss me when you came in, you sat like five feet away from me on the couch, you pulled your hand away from me at dinner, a-and you wouldn’t even look me in the eyes when I was making love to you,’ his voice breaks. ‘What’s happening, Y/N, please just talk to me… you’re fucking breaking my heart.’

She suddenly looks up at him when she hears his last confession and her face is one he can’t decipher, although he sees the tears threatening to spill over. ‘The other night, when you came home-‘ she pauses, looking down, ‘I smelled the perfume on you and saw the lipstick mark on your neck,’ she spits the last part out like venom. Looking back up at him, he’s never seen her look so hurt and full of angry before. He, himself, looks like a lost puppy.

‘I can explain.’

~

‘Were you even out with the guys?! Or was that just some excuse so you could go fuck some girl?’ she seethed, standing up now and pacing around the room. Duncan just sat there, paralyzed by what was happening. ‘I tried to be cool, and thought maybe, even after all these months, you just wanted to be fuck buddies or something, so I tried to give you that. But, I can’t do that. I can’t fucking do that, do you understand?’ Emphasizing her words by throwing her things into her bag, tears staining her cheeks. ‘I will NOT fucking do this… it’s so stupid,’ her voice breaks at the end and she starts sobbing into her hands. He immediately gets up and pulls her into his arms, which she tries to pull out of. He holds her close though and takes her hands away from her face, forcing her to look at him.

‘Please, just hear me out. Please Y/N… It really isn’t what you think,’ his heart aching for this beautiful girl right in front of him, clearly having her heart broken over this. When she didn’t fight him, or say anything and her sobs started to die down, he took that as his cue to continue. ‘I was out with the boys, that is true. It was supposed to be a fun low-key night, until Travis pulled up to a club. I thought there was no harm in staying for a little while and having a drink. One drink turned into several, and the guys were inviting tons of girls around to hang out with us in our section,’ he paused, trying to gauge her reaction, but wasn’t able to determine what she was feeling by the blank stare taking over. ‘There was this crazy drunk girl who would not leave me alone, so yeah, I’m not surprised that you could smell her perfume on me. I tried being polite, I tried ripping her off of me, I tried hiding in a part of the club I was determined she couldn’t find me in, but nothing worked. Tons of people were there, and I was starting to get recognized, so the last thing I wanted to do was create a scene.’ She glanced up at him quickly, but looked at the floor right after. ‘But, she wouldn’t fucking leave me alone and I nearly lost it when she reached up and kissed my neck. I yanked her back probably harder than I should have, but who does that? Fucking invades somebody’s personal space like that? I left, but she followed me, and that was when she grabbed my face and kissed me.’ He stopped talking then, as she looked up at him. He still couldn’t figure out what emotion was playing out on her face. He didn’t know what she was feeling, but it looked almost as if it was sympathy? ‘I called the bouncer over and had her thrown out. Then went over to my friends, sarcastically thanked them for the ‘fun night’ and then left.’

He inched his way closer to her, holding her by her waist and she looked sad. His sad angel, he thought. She should never look this way, him feeling disgusted with himself that he was the cause of this. ‘I was drunk and irritated, but you know the main thing I had on my mind that night? All I kept thinking about was getting home to you and wrapping you up in my arms. Just wanting to be close to you…’ he kissed the top of her head. ‘But the boys kept pressuring me to stay and I was fucking stupid for agreeing to, especially when all I wanted was you.’

Her voice was raw and quiet, ‘I’m sorry that happened to you.’ Clearing her voice and looking into eyes, she spoke strongly, ‘That’s really, really fucked up, Duncan.’

He felt relief that she was no longer angry at him, but also disbelief that she so easily gave him her forgiveness when he felt that he didn’t deserve it for hurting her. His sweet angel. He stared at his love, never wanting to look at anything besides her ever again, ‘I don’t care about what happened that night, I only care about what happens between us. The rejection I felt from you tonight… I can’t handle that. It fucking broke my heart. I don’t know how to deal with this Y/N, I thought we were getting serious and I’m so scared that you’re just going to walk away, a-and I don’t know what to do,’ his voice breaks as he tries to hide the tears falling from his bright blue eyes.

Y/N feels for the beautiful man standing in front of her. She takes his face in her hands and kisses him softly. Wrapping her arms around his neck, she holds him there, and his sobs soften once he’s enveloped in her arms. Holding onto her as if his life depended on it, he hears her voice. ‘Duncan, you’re not going to lose me. I’m sorry for everything I’ve done,’ she pauses. ‘I was just so hurt...’

‘I know,’ he chokes out. ‘I’m so sorry, too. I should have just told you. I was fucking stupid not to. Of course you would eventually find out. You’re too smart to not have noticed anything,’ he laughs, wiping away his tears.

She smiles at him, and plainly says, ‘we’re both stupid, we need to learn how to just talk to one another and then all of this could have been avoided,’ she groaned. He chuckles, burrowing his face into her neck, holding her there in his arms.

‘Y/N, baby…’ her heart leaps at hearing the word come out of his mouth, sounding smooth as silk on the tip of his tongue. ‘Can we please be exclusive now?’