#so many turned out weird but so many turned out good

[gloomwitchwrites]

Good evening to you. I thought about writing you many times but never had the courage to do so 😅 I saw a TikTok Trend some time ago and thought about the Reaction from our beloved task Force 141. How would they react when you "accidentally" sent them the message "He just left our house, you can come now. He'll be gone for some time". Basically pranking them by implying something shady. You can ignore this if it's weird of course. Thank you for your time and amazing writing 🙏😊

I'm so glad you finally got the courage to send in a request because I had so much fun with this one! Many many thanks because I pretty much cackled and giggled the whole time I wrote this. I'm not exaggerating. I adored this prompt. It not only gave me room for a little humor, but it also gave me the opportunity to be a little naughty!

For the masterlist and how to submit your own request, click HERE

Task Force 141 x Female Reader

Content & Warnings (per the warnings MDNI): established relationship, pranks & shenanigans, suggestive themes, mild sexual content, dirty talk, dirty thoughts, swearing, possessive behavior

Word Count: 1.5k

ao3 // main masterlist // imagines & what if series

John Price

Five minutes.

Five. Minutes.

Five minutes and you're already causing problems.

John isn't surprised. Not in the least. Sometimes, you enjoy being on your worst behavior just because it stirs him into a frenzy.

John is sitting at a stoplight, staring down at his phone screen. A car honks but he ignores it.

He's gone. Come over.

There isn't anyone else. John knows this explicitly. Not because he completely trusts you—which he does—but because he knows your exact location at all times. He knows what you search on your phone and what things you look at on the internet. And because he knows that, he knows you're just trying to take the piss.

Locking his phone screen, John turns on his blinker. A few turns later and he's back home, marching through the door. He's not mad. Far from it. You just need a good lesson—a good spanking. Over his knee with a bare ass. That way he can watch it bounce, watch as you wiggle and squirm, hear you whimper, and watch as your arousal grows with each strike.

Then, and only then, will he keep you under him. Which is what you want anyway.

John walks silently and with purpose, approaching you as you casually lounge on the couch.

"You're home early."

John ignores the jab. "You're on one today, cabbage."

"Whatever do you mean?"

John holds up his phone. "Think I'm going to believe this?"

Your eyes widen but John can see the bluff. "I meant to send that to—"

"To me," interrupts John. “You meant to send it to me.”

"To a friend,” you correct, but John notices the smile you attempt to hide. “I meant to send it to a friend.”

No. You wanted John to come home—to be a bit neurotic, even a little possessive.

"Fine," growls John. "I'll bite."

He places one hand on the top of the back cushion while the other rests above your head. He leans in, lowering his voice.

"Who do you belong to?"

"You."

"Show me you mean it."

You tuck your knees in, drawing back your top and removing your lounge pants. When they're gone, you spread wide, revealing your glistening pussy. Your arousal is clear, and John cannot wait to sink inside.

"That's my good girl."

John "Soap" MacTavish

You sent the texts not long after Johnny left for work.

He’s gone. Won’t be home for hours. Come over.

At first, you believed that Johnny would get those texts and immediately turn around, to head home and bust down the door. He did no such thing. He didn’t even respond. Not a peep from him. You spent the rest of the day in limbo, unsure if Johnny received the texts at all.

So, when he does come home, you expect him to say something.

“Hey you,” he murmurs, going in for a kiss.

“How was work?” you ask.

“Good,” he replies, heading down the hall to the bedroom. “Had a briefing. We’ll be heading out for a mission next week.”

“Do you know when exactly?” you ask.

“Tuesday!” he calls back.

Nothing. This man is completely glossing over the fact that you sent those texts to him. When he reappears in nothing but a pair of sweatpants, you nearly swoon at his bare chest and stomach.

“What did you get up to today?” he asks, sauntering over to grasp your hips and pull you close.

“Nothing much,” you reply, and Johnny hums in reply, placing a kiss on your forehead.

“You know,” he says after a beat, fishing out his phone from his pocket. “You did send me a few odd texts earlier.” He taps away at the screen at turns it around to show you.

The texts you sent are right there, glowing brightly.

“Oh, those—”

“I checked the cameras.”

“Cameras?” you choke. “What cameras?”

Johnny grins and then he’s tapping away at his phone again. When he shifts the screen around, you see yourself and him in real time. You turn to the corner of the room from where the feed is coming from.

“I never saw anyone come over. But I did see this.”

Tapping again, he changes to an earlier time during the day. It’s a feed of the bedroom, and you’re masturbating. Johnny ups the volume and you hear yourself moan.

“There’s this, too,” he says, switching to the night before when he had you on all fours, ass in the air.

“Johnny!”

He tightens his hand on your hip, keeping you close. Lowering his voice, Johnny grins. “Try again, love.”

Simon "Ghost" Riley

You watch from the window as Simon’s car pulls out of the drive. You wait until he turns the corner before unlocking your phone and selecting his name.

He’s just left. Come over.

With a wicked grin, you hit send, knowing that the texts will reach Simon any second. Leaning against the window, you wait, and then smile wider as Simon’s car sharply turns the corner and speeds down the street back to the house.

He’s hardly parked the car before he’s exiting the vehicle, storming toward the house, malicious intent clear with every step. With a triumphant giggle, you rush to the bedroom and flop onto the bed, pretending that you’re up to nothing at all.

You hear the front door slam, then Simon’s thunderous footsteps followed by doors opening and closing. Sprawling out across the bed, you tap away at your phone, acting like you're not bothered at all.

When he appears in the doorway, you deliberately ignore him for five long seconds before you casually turn your head and smile.

"You're home early," you observe.

Simon looms in the doorway. "What the bloody hell was that text about?"

"What text?" you shrug, all innocence.

Simon, deadpan, replies "He's just left. Come over."

"Oh. That was for a friend."

"Which friend?"

"A friend."

Simon slowly walks up to the side of the bed. "You're fucking with me."

"Don't know what you're on about, Simon."

The murderous demeanor you saw earlier melts away, leaving behind a mischievous glint that you know all too well. With a viper-like quickness, Simon grasps your ankle and yanks you to the end of the bed.

"Simon!" you shriek, but he's already flipping you over onto your stomach.

He plants both knees on either side of you, keeping you trapped beneath him, his large hands coming down on your wrists to pin them above your head.

"Was last night not enough?" he asks, voice a gruff whisper. "Or do you need another lesson?"

You lift your head as Simon transfers both wrists beneath one hand. He has his phone, tapping away at the screen.

'What are you doing?"

"Telling Price I'm not coming in."

"But you're scheduled."

Simon locks the phone and then tosses it to the side. "He'll understand." Pressing his lips to the shell of your ear, his voice drops to a breathy whisper. "I have a woman to breed."

Kyle "Gaz" Garrick

It's cruel, perhaps. Even mean. But getting Kyle worked up is so goddamn sweet.

He’s protective, sometimes even a bit possessive, and nothing is hotter to you than watching him stake his claim.

Which is why you sent those texts in the first place—a way to make his heartrate spike.

He just left. He'll be gone for hours.

Kyle bursts through the bedroom door, his chest heaving as if he just ran several miles.

“Where are they?” he asks, voice a growl.

Kyle heads for the bathroom. Throwing open the door, he storms inside, but finding nothing, retreats back into the bedroom.

"Where's who?" you ask in mock innocence as Kyle opens the closet, pushing aside clothes as if he’ll find someone hiding there.

Kyle exits the closet, hands on his hips. “I saw the texts.”

“What texts?” You casually retrieve your phone, already knowing what you’ll find there. Opening up the messaging app, you click on Kyle’s name, and laugh.

“Sorry,” you giggle. “I meant to send that to a friend.”

Kyle’s eyes shut, and the sigh he makes is so loud you laugh harder. Clutching his own phone in his hand, Kyle shakes it in his fist.

“You’re having a laugh,” he says.

"No," you giggle. "Just a mistake."

That thin line becomes a smirk. Kyle tosses his phone onto the bed and you immediately know you’re done for.

“I know you, love. Think you’re clever, yeah?”

He saunters forward, and you push up onto your hands, sliding back along the bed.

“Kyle,” you warn.

“Tricking me just to get me home. For what? Think I’m going to bend you over the nearest surface and fuck you?”

Yes. That’s exactly what I think.

You scoot away, sinking into the pile of pillows at the head of the bed. Kyle matches your movements until he’s nearly horizontal over you.

“You’re right,” he continues. “I will.” His gaze roams over your body and then returns to your face. “But first, I’m going to train you into never making a silly mistake like that ever again.”

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[pbaz7]

FLIGHT 2136: PART 3

paige x azzi

warning: mentions car accident

word count: 10.3k

A/N: I have literally never written anything like this so I hope it comes across correctly. I swear some of your answers are in this chapter just be patient. Let me know what you think please 🫶🏼

—————————————————————————

3rd Person POV - Friday

The morning light filtered softly through the hotel curtains, casting a warm glow over the room. Azzi blinked a few times to adjust her eyes to the bright rays filing in, slowly waking her up to the quiet stillness of the room. Her gaze naturally drifted to Paige, who was still fast asleep beside her, the steadiness of her breathing reflecting her deep slumber.

Azzi watched her for a moment, taking in the sight of her in a way she hadn’t been able to before. The blanket had shifted considerably, low on Paige’s waist, and she was lying on her stomach, her hair a little messy on the pillow. Azzi’s gaze softened as she noticed how naturally beautiful Paige was, the little details that made her feel more real, more alive. The sunlight caught in Paige’s hair, highlighting certain strands that framed her face, even in her sleep.

Her eyes traced the sharpness of Paige's jaw, the arch of her nose, the curve of her lips that were relaxed in slumber. As Azzi looked at her she noticed that there was a scar, small and barely visible, near Paige's hairline. Azzi’s finger itched to trace it, to figure out the story associated with it, but she stayed still, careful not to disturb her. The quiet intimacy of the moment was too precious to ruin with a thoughtless action like that.

Her gaze moved lower, her eyes looking at the scar on Paige’s torso—the one from last night. It was more visible when Paige was facing her, but now, with her turned on her stomach, Azzi could only make out a small portion of it, curving along her side and reaching toward her back just slightly.

In the stillness, Azzi felt the weight of the moment, the growing sense of curiosity she had about Paige. She realized, then, just how little she truly knew about her—the person she had shared what felt like many lingering moments with in the past few days. Still, there were so many layers left to explore, so much left to understand.

It wasn’t lost on Azzi how much she wanted to know, how much she yearned to unravel the mysteries that Paige held beneath the surface. It felt like the beginning of something important, something bigger than just a random night in a hotel room. For now, though Azzi was content to just be here, beside her, breathing in the quietness of the morning as she gathered her thoughts.

Azzi lay there for a moment longer, watching Paige as she slept, it was all so peaceful. It felt weird, she could’ve stayed in that moment forever, but after a while, Azzi shifted slightly, careful not to disturb Paige. She slowly reached over the edge of the bed to grab her phone from her pocket, making sure not to make too much noise.

She unlocked it and couldn’t help but chuckle when she saw a text from Caroline pop up first: You still alive? Hope it was good.” Azzi typed a reply, “Yes, I’m alive and please relax.” A few more notifications popped up and Azzi spent a few minutes responding, her fingers moving across the screen.

The next time she glanced over at Paige, she noticed the subtle shift in her posture. Paige’s eyelids fluttered a little, and the quiet signs of waking up were starting to show. Azzi couldn’t help but smile to herself, lowering her phone as Paige slowly began to blink her eyes open.

Paige squinted slightly, clearly still adjusting to the morning light that filtered in through the window. Her eyes, that seemed to be a deeper blue with the way the sun was hitting them, met Azzi’s, a soft glimmer of awareness and curiosity in them. There was something so serene about the way Paige looked at her, a sense of familiarity already settling in, even though they had only known each other for such a short time.

Paige stretched a little, still blinking as she finally spoke in a raspy morning voice, “Morning.” She looked at Azzi for a beat longer, still processing the shift from sleep to reality.

Azzi couldn’t help but grin, the corners of her mouth moving upward as she replied, “Morning. You look like you just got out of a coma.”

Paige’s lips twitched, her eyes still half-lidded as she fought a smile. “Yeah? You don’t look so bad yourself.”

Azzi laughed softly, the moment between them feeling more natural than anything they had shared before. The tension that had once seemed so thick between them now seemed to have lifted, replaced with something lighter.

Paige’s gaze flickered to Azzi’s phone, still in her hand. “Telling your friends how good I was already?”

Azzi raised an eyebrow. “Sure something like that,” she replied playfully. She lowered the phone and moved it to the side before she turned back to Paige. “So, how’d you sleep?”

Paige stretched once more, the slight stretch of her body revealing more of the scar near her side that Azzi had seen the night before.

"Like a rock," Paige said, her voice still a little horse. "You?" she asked, turning to Azzi who had the sheet covering her chest.

Azzi chuckled. "Yeah, better than I’ve slept in a while."

Paige kept her gaze fixed on Azzi, still lying there with her head on the pillow. "So, what now?"

Azzi smiled a little, the corners of her lips curling up. "I was hoping you'd know."

Paige returned the smile, raising an eyebrow. "Me? I thought you were the one with all the answers."

Azzi shrugged, not answering right away. Instead, she glanced at the clock on the nightstand. "What time is your flight?"

"6:15," Paige replied.

Azzi hummed quietly, not saying anything else for a moment as she just looked straight ahead. Paige, still looking at her, propped her head up with her hand, studying Azzi’s profile as her eyes danced over Azzi’s face.

Azzi shifted slightly, meeting Paige’s gaze again. "Stop looking at me like that."

Paige grinned. "Like what?"

Azzi let out a soft sigh. "Like you just had sex with me last night."

Paige laughed softly, the sound completely unguarded. "I did have sex with you last night."

Azzi smirked, shaking her head completely at a loss for words. The atmosphere between them felt so easy.

Randomly Azzi says, “Tell me something about you.”

Paige chuckled as she sat up, her shoulder brushing against Azzi’s. “What do you want to know?” she asked, her amusement with the question clear.

Azzi shrugged, her brown eyes warm but curious. “Anything.”

Paige thought for a moment, tilting her head slightly before offering, “Um…Well I’m 22.”

Azzi immediately cut in, unimpressed. “That’s boring, and I already know that.”

Paige laughed. “You didn’t even let me finish.”

Azzi smirked, motioning for her to continue. “Alright, go on.”

Paige licked her lips, thinking for another second before continuing, “I’m 22. My birthday is October 20th. Um… I like purple.” She trailed off, her mind suddenly blank on what else to add.

Azzi gave her an exaggerated look before deadpanning, “Wow. I feel like I’ve known you for years.”

Paige scoffed, shoving Azzi’s arm playfully. “Shut up.”

Azzi grinned, shaking her head. “I’m serious, that was definitely life-changing information.”

Before Paige could respond her phone ringing cut off her thought process, making both Paige and Azzi glance toward the desk where it was sitting. Paige sighed before pushing herself up, stretching her arms over her head as she walked over in just her boxers and sports bra. Azzi’s eyes lingered for a moment, biting her lip slightly as she took in the way the light outlined the toned muscles of her back.

Paige glanced at the caller ID before answering. “Hello.”

Azzi stayed in bed, half-listening as she tried to piece together the conversation once she heard Geno’s voice. She could hear his voice through the speaker, though not clearly enough to make out every word. Something about wanting Paige to come by campus for a bit before her flight since she didn’t have much time to officially meet the team and hangout with them yesterday. Paige hummed in response here and there, glancing over her shoulder with a smirk when she noticed Azzi watching her.

Paige hung up a few moments later, still smiling as she turned back toward the bed. Before she could explain, Azzi’s phone started ringing. She frowned when she saw Geno’s name on the screen, glancing at Paige, who shrugged before disappearing into the bathroom.

Azzi exhaled and answered. “Hey, Coach.”

“Paige is coming to campus in about 20 minutes. I’m sending her your number so she can call you when she gets there. Make sure she feels comfortable,” Geno instructed, his voice casual yet expectant.

Azzi bit back a smile even though he couldn’t see her. “Yeah, I got it. Don’t worry.”

Geno seemed satisfied with that and ended the call. Azzi sighed, tossing her phone on the bed before standing up and stretching. While looking for her shirt her eyes landed on Paige’s black oversized shirt from yesterday, thrown over the chair. Without thinking much of it, she grabbed it and slipped it on. It was small, but she caught a faint trace of Paige’s scent on the fabric and it felt strangely intimate. As if they hadn’t just woken up in the same bed.

She walked toward the bathroom, leaning against the doorway as she watched Paige brush her teeth.

Paige caught Azzi’s reflection in the mirror, her gaze flickering down to the black shirt draped over Azzi’s frame before meeting her eyes again. A smirk tugged at the corner of her lips as she mumbled through the toothpaste, “Looks good on you.”

Azzi rolled her eyes, shifting her weight against the doorframe. “Please don’t start.”

Paige chuckled, spitting into the sink before rinsing her mouth. She turned around, leaning back on the counter as she reached for the towel. “I’m just saying.”

Azzi scoffed, but there was a slight tug at her lips, betraying what she was about to say. “Don’t get used to it.”

Paige just smirked, tilting her head slightly as she looked at Azzi like she knew something she wasn’t saying. Azzi held her gaze for a moment before shaking her head, pushing off the doorframe. “Hurry up,” she said, turning back toward the bed. “I’m not gonna be the reason you’re late.”

Paige watched her go, her smirk still lingering as she wiped her face.

Paige walked out of the bathroom and settled for throwing on a hoodie and a pair of sweats. Turning back toward the bed, she grabbed an extra pair of sweatpants and some boxers and tossed them to Azzi.

Azzi caught them easily saying. “Thank you,” as she slipped them on.

Once they were both ready and Azzi grabbed all of her clothes, they stepped out of Paige’s room.

When they got outside there was a slight breeze as they made their way to Caroline’s car. Azzi unlocked it and slid into the driver’s seat while Paige got in the passenger seat, a lingering smile still tugging at her lips.

Azzi caught the look and sighed, shaking her head as she started the car. “You’re still smirking.”

Paige shrugged. “I didn’t say anything.”

Azzi gave her a pointed look before exhaling a small laugh. “You don’t have to, it's litrally all over your face.”

Paige chuckled but didn’t say anything else, letting the conversation fade into a comfortable silence, the soft hum of the car filling the space between them as they drove toward campus.

When they arrived, Azzi pulled into Caroline’s usual parking spot and turned off the engine. They stepped out, making their way up the stairs to Azzi’s suite.

The second Azzi pushed open the door, she was met with Caroline and Ice lounging on the couch. Both of them took one look at her, eyes dropping to the clothes in her hand before flicking to the shirt and sweats she was wearing. Matching smirks immediately spread across both of their faces.

Azzi paused for half a second before exhaling through her nose, already regretting the situation.

Paige followed, moving into view just enough to lift a hand in a wordless acknowledgment. Ice and Caroline’s eyebrows lifted slightly, clearly not expecting to see her here, both of them thankful they kept their mouths shut for a second.

Azzi kept her expression neutral as she said, “Geno wants us all to hang out with her today before she leaves.”

They both nodded, but the smirks never left their faces. Azzi didn’t entertain it, instead glancing at Paige for a second. She immediately noticed the shift—how Paige’s energy had seemed to dim. Her entire demeanor was more reserved now, quieter, a stark contrast to how she’d been that morning in the hotel of just moments ago in the car.

Azzi frowned slightly before saying, “You can just come with me until the rest of them get here.”

Paige met her eyes briefly before nodding, following Azzi deeper into the suite and into her room.

When they got to Azzi’s room, she shut the door behind her while Paige settled into the chair in front of her desk. Azzi moved to her closet, tossing her clothes inside before straightening up and turning back toward Paige.

Paige was looking around, taking in the space with quiet curiosity. Azzi leaned against the closet door, watching her for a moment before asking, “Is it what you expected?”

Paige glanced at her and nodded. “Surprisingly, yeah.”

Azzi chuckled, grabbing her phone and sending a message to the group chat, telling them all to come to her suite courtesy of Geno. Almost instantly, the message started getting likes, but she didn’t linger on it. Placing her phone down, she looked back at Paige.

“I’ll be right back. I’m gonna go brush my teeth and make myself presentable,” Azzi said.

Paige gave a small nod, and with that, Azzi slipped out of the room, making sure she shut the door behind her.

Left alone, Paige let out a soft exhale, her gaze drifting across the room until it landed on a corkboard hanging on the wall. It was filled with pictures—Azzi’s life in high school and college. Paige leaned forward slightly, eyes tracing over the pictures, and before she realized it, a small smile had formed on her lips.

When Azzi returned from the bathroom, her hair was pulled up into a messy bun, a few loose strands framing her face. She shut the door behind her again and moved to lean against the desk, standing just a few inches from where Paige was sitting, her leg brushing against Paige’s knee.

Paige glanced up at her, eyes flicking to her hair before smirking slightly. “Cute.”

Azzi raised an eyebrow. “Me or the bun?”

Paige shrugged. “Both.”

Azzi rolled her eyes but couldn’t hide the way her lips twitched. “You’re lucky you’re charming.”

Paige leaned back in the chair, spreading her legs a bit more. “I know.”

Azzi gave her a look, smiling at her. “Oh, you’re back now, huh?”

Paige tilted her head. “Back?”

Azzi motioned toward the door with her chin. “You got a little stoic out there.”

Paige exhaled through her nose, shaking her head. “Just wasn’t in the mood to be the center of attention first thing in the morning to strangers.”

Azzi studied her for a moment before nudging her knee with her own. “Well, it’s just us now.”

Paige grinned up at her. “Yeah?” Paige licked her lips as she looked up at Azzi, “So what you wanna do about it?”

Azzi shook her head, biting her lip slightly to stop a smile. “I should’ve left you in the hotel.”

Paige chuckled, tilting her head back against the chair as she looked up at Azzi. “Too late now.”

“Unfortunately.”

Paige kept her eyes on Azzi, her gaze unwavering. It made Azzi shift slightly, the intensity of it throwing her off.

“Stop,” Azzi muttered

Paige raised an eyebrow. "Stop what?"

"You’ve had that look on your face since you woke up."

Paige just hummed in response, the smirk never leaving her lips as she continued looking up at Azzi.

Azzi narrowed her eyes. “Can you at least tell me what you’re thinking?”

Paige slouched further against the chair, her legs spread slightly, and lazily shook her head. “No.”

Azzi didn’t respond immediately, just studied her, trying to decipher whatever was running through her mind. Paige, still lounging effortlessly, absentmindedly started playing with the hem of her shirt that Azzi was wearing.

Azzi glanced down at her hand before raising an eyebrow. Without hesitation, she swatted Paige’s hand away.

Paige scoffed at the action.

From down the hall, the sound of voices grew louder, the unmistakable clamor of the team filling the suite.

“I think the team’s here,” Azzi murmured, straightening up from the desk as she glanced toward the door.

Paige didn’t respond. Instead she took a moment before she stood up, immediately in Azzi’s space—close enough that Azzi could feel the warmth radiating off her. They both noticed the closeness but neither of them moved, locked in a quiet stare.

Azzi looked Paige up and down with a small smirk playing on her face. “You know if you want to–”

KK’s voice rang out through the suite and interrupted whatever Azzi was about to say, “Azzi, stop hogging the recruit!”

Azzi chuckled, while Paige simply exhaled through her nose. Without a word, she stepped back, casually shoving her hands into her pockets before following Azzi out of the room.

As they stepped out of Azzi’s room, the noise in the suite became more apparent. The team was already gathered, everyone lounging in comfortable clothes—sweats, sweatshirts, sneakers—looking relaxed. No one made any formal introductions again, but the moment Paige stepped into the living room, the attention shifted to her. They all greeted her, some with friendly smiles and others with more playful words trying to immediately make her feel comfortable, but the ease of the atmosphere didn’t seem to reach Paige fully as she sat down on the couch and Azzi walked to the other side of the room.

As soon as Paige sat down KK took a seat next to her, KK’s natural energy radiating off of her as she looked at Paige. “So,” KK said, trying to strike up a conversation, “What makes you not boring like everybody else? Gimme something good.”

Paige glanced over at her, her lips curling up in a small, reserved smile. “Um, I don’t know,” she said, shrugging slightly. “I play basketball. That’s pretty much it.”

KK groaned but pressed on. “Okay, but what do you like to do when you’re not playing? There has to be something interesting about you.”

Paige didn’t answer right away, her gaze flicking to the others in the room as if searching for something to latch onto. Finally, she let out a breath and gave a half-smile, her eyes momentarily flicking back to Azzi who was standing by the counter. “I don’t have much time for hobbies these days honestly. Mostly just rehab and working out, been doing a lot of visits and when I’m not doing any of those I watch my team practice. Homework I don’t know.”

Aubrey nodded, chiming into the conversation. “That’s fair,” she said. “But I mean, everyone has something outside basketball, right? You like any movies or music? Come on, give us something. You sound like a robot dawg.”

Paige’s jaw tightened slightly, and she leaned back a little more on the couch, her posture still casual but distant. “I mean yeah I like music. R&B, mostly, a little of everything though” she replied, her voice steady but a little guarded.

The conversation kept going, but it was clear that Paige wasn’t opening up much. She was here physically, but emotionally she was closed off. There was confidence in her responses—no hesitation, no awkwardness—but not much more. She didn’t offer much beyond what was necessary to keep the conversation moving or to answer direct questions they asked her.

Azzi caught the shift in Paige’s demeanor the moment she looked over and saw Paige staring off into space, her finger absentmindedly spinning the ring on her hand. It was subtle, but Azzi noticed. Azzi pushed off the counter, excusing herself from the conversation with Ashlynn and Jana, and made her way over to where Paige was sitting on the couch.

She lowered herself into the seat next to her, close enough that their legs brushed together.

“Whatcha thinkin about?”

Paige blinked, breaking out of her thoughts, and her eyes slowly shifted over to Azzi. A faint smile appeared on her face. She shook her head. “Nothing much.”

Azzi didn’t buy it. “I don’t believe you,” she said simply.

Paige chuckled, a small and unconvincing sound, before her gaze shifted back to the group as the noise around them seemed to fill the air.

Azzi raised an eyebrow. “Are you uncomfortable?”

Paige quickly shook her head. “Not uncomfortable, just… not much to say really.”

Azzi muttered under her breath, almost too quietly to hear, but Paige caught it. “You sure had a lot to say last night.”

Paige chuckled at this, tilting her head slightly as she met Azzi’s gaze. “I don’t think you wanna get into that with me right now,” she murmured.

Azzi held her gaze, her lips twitching, but before either of them could push further, a voice cut through the moment.

“Yo, Paige!” Aubrey called from across the room.

Paige let the stare linger for a second longer before finally tearing her eyes away, turning toward Aubrey. “Yeah?”

“How tall are you?” Aubrey asked, her expression unreadable.

Paige blinked, thrown off by the random question. “Six foot.”

Aubrey nodded. “You can shoot?”

Paige huffed a small laugh, still confused but playing along. “Yeah.”

Without another word, Aubrey simply nodded again and went right back to her conversation, as if she hadn’t just stopped the room to ask.

Paige frowned slightly, looking over at Azzi, who just shrugged.

Paige’s time with the team went like this for about another hour—mostly talking to Azzi, though every now and then, someone would chime in with a random question that Paige would answer. It wasn’t that she didn’t know how to talk to people. She just didn’t do well with new people, with people she didn’t know. Simply because she didn’t like small talk much. It was one of her pet peeves that had formed some time ago when her step mom would force her to talk through the pain in her ribs with pointless questions and comments.

After a few hours of chilling with the team it was time for Paige to head back to her hotel so she could go to the airport. She stretched slightly as she stood up, glancing at Azzi, who was already watching her.

“You heading out?” Azzi asked.

Paige nodded. “Yeah.”

“I’ll walk you out.”

Paige didn’t argue, just slipped her hands into her pockets as she followed Azzi toward the door bidding goodbye to everyone before they walked out.

The two of them stood outside waiting for Paige’s uber not saying much. Paige rocked back on her heels, hands in her pockets, glancing at Azzi, who was leaning against the railing, arms crossed.

Azzi glanced at Paige. “So.”

Paige smiled softly, tilting her head. “So.”

Azzi exhaled, watching her carefully. “When are you making your decision?”

“I have to visit a few more schools first,” she admitted. “But soon.”

Azzi hummed at this, nodding slightly. Before either of them could say anything else, the Uber pulled up. Paige stood there for a second, looking at Azzi, searching for something in her expression. Then, a small smile tugged at her lips.

“How do you wanna play this?” Paige asked, her voice quieter now.

Azzi shrugged, her face unreadable.

Paige smiled at that before stepping forward, pulling Azzi into a hug. It was brief but firm, lingering just long enough before they pulled away.

Azzi met her eyes. “Don’t be a stranger.”

Paige smirked. “You have my number Azzi.”

Azzi raised an eyebrow. “Are you actually going to text back?”

Paige shrugged. “Guess we’ll have to see.”

Azzi scoffed, shaking her head. “You aren’t as mysterious anymore. So your little ominous comments don’t work.”

Paige laughed at that, reaching for the car door. “I’ll text you.”

Azzi crossed her arms, a small smile playing on her lips. “I’ll text back.”

Paige met her gaze one last time, her expression softer now. “I’ll see you soon, Azzi.”

With that, she slid into the Uber, shutting the door behind her. Azzi stood there, watching as the car pulled away, her arms still crossed, her smile lingering, before she walked back upstairs.

…

After that day, Paige and Azzi kept in touch—not constantly, but enough. Their conversations were never rushed, never forced. A text here and there, one of them sending something random. Azzi sending a meme, Paige sending a highlight clip, both of them sending song recommendations that neither of them ever admitted to actually listening to.

Their texts always stretched over days. It would start off as a constant back and forth, but then one of them would respond hours later, sometimes even the next day, but neither ever seemed to mind. Azzi would send something sarcastic, Paige would respond with something equally dry, and it would spiral into playful messages until one of them finally let it die out—only for another conversation to start days later in the same effortless way.

What surprised Azzi the most during this time was that Paige always answered her FaceTime calls. She’d roll her eyes and act inconvenienced, but she never ignored them. “I told you I don’t like FaceTime,” she’d say when she picked up, usually lying in bed or at a random gym. Azzi would just smirk, tilting her head. “Then why do you always answer?”

Paige never had a real answer for that. She’d just shake her head, fighting a small smile before changing the subject.

Through these scattered conversations, Azzi learned more about Paige. She found out that Paige was at a small Division II school in Minnesota, though she rarely talked about it unless Azzi pried, mumbling about how Azzi asked way too many questions. Azzi learned that Paige hadn’t played her freshman year because of the accident, and after tearing her ACL this past year, she still had two years of eligibility left. Though she planned to use just one—coaches seemed to think that was all she needed to prove that she could still perform on the big stage.

Azzi also learned little things. Like how Paige always listened to music when she couldn’t sleep, nothing too loud, just playing softly in the background so she could listen to the lyrics instead of all the random thoughts swirling in her head. She learned how Paige had a habit of spinning the ring on her finger when she was thinking or when she got a little nervous or uncomfortable. How she spaced off in the middle of conversations and came back to earth like nothing happened. How she only drank coffee if she was desperate, otherwise she stuck to water or the occasional shirley temple.

It was a slow process, getting to know her. Paige didn’t just offer things up freely, but Azzi didn’t mind the wait. The more Paige revealed, the more Azzi realized that, beneath all that confidence and “mystery,” she was someone who chose her words carefully. Someone who didn’t say things unless she meant them.

Paige learned about Azzi just as Azzi had learned about her.

It was almost effortless—Azzi carried most of their conversations, filling in the silences that Paige left behind. That was the first thing Paige realized: Azzi wasn’t necessarily talkative, but with her, she was. Because she knew Paige wouldn’t speak much unless she was eased into it first. If they were ever on FaceTime around Azzi’s team they were the one’s talking and yelling while Azzi usually just sat there offering a small comment here and there.

Paige learned that, despite being one of the healthiest people she had ever met, Azzi had an undeniable sweet tooth—so much so that if she could, she’d probably marry a sweet treat. Paige learned that Azzi loved to read, losing herself in books when she needed a break from the world. She learned that Azzi loved talking about the books she was reading when she was done, even when Paige had no idea what she was talking about most of the time.

She learned about Stewie, Azzi’s dog, and how just talking about him could make Azzi light up. Paige learned about the little things—the things that made Azzi smile, the things that made her laugh, the things that made her feel at home when she was away at school and missed her family.

And now, about a month or so later, they were about to see each other again.

Azzi hadn’t expected to see Paige. As far as she knew, Paige was still making her rounds, visiting schools, weighing her options. They had texted earlier in the day like usual—short, easy messages that stretched over time—but Paige hadn’t mentioned anything about being at the game.

The arena was loud, packed with energy as UConn went through their usual warmups. The rhythm of bouncing basketballs, sneakers squeaking against the hardwood, and the music blaring through the speakers filled the space. Azzi was locked in, focused on her silent routine, until a glance toward USC’s bench made her freeze for half a second and do a double take.

Paige was there. Sitting just behind their bench, in nearly the same spot she had been when she watched UConn play before.

Azzi’s eyebrows lifted slightly, her grip tightening around the ball in her hands as she tried to process the sight. Paige, of all people, at the USC game—against UConn, no less.

Paige, of course, had seen Azzi notice her. And, because she was Paige, she smirked, leaning back slightly in her seat when she caught Azzi’s eyes.

Azzi blinked, exhaling a short breath as she shook her head, trying to fight the smile tugging at her lips. This girl.

…

From the moment the ball tipped off Azzi spent the entire game battling against USC’s defense, which had clearly done its homework on the shooting guard. Every time she tried to move off the ball, two defenders shadowed her. Every screen she ran around, they fought through, or two people jumped at her. UConn’s offense, usually fluid and dynamic with the ball in her hands, felt a little stagnant without her usual rhythm.

Paige could see it—the way Azzi’s frustration built with every contested shot, every missed opportunity. She wasn’t playing badly by any means, but she wasn’t playing as freely as she usually did. From where Paige was sitting, she could see ways Azzi could create more space for herself. Small adjustments, little shifts in movement that could’ve made a difference. But all she could do was sit there and watch it unfold behind USC’s bench.

The game was tight all the way through, every possession feeling heavier as the clock wound down. But in the final minutes, USC managed to stay just a step ahead.

When the buzzer finally sounded, the scoreboard read 83-79 in USC’s favor.

The home crowd erupted in celebration while UConn’s players sighed, some shaking their heads, others already replaying the game in their minds. Azzi, standing near the baseline, exhaled sharply, hands on her hips as she looked up at the scoreboard.

From her seat behind USC’s bench, Paige simply watched it all unfold.

A few minutes after the game, once the immediate post-game chaos settled, Paige and Azzi finally made their way toward each other. Paige had stepped away from the crowd, having a few moments to herself while USC went to have their post-game talk. Azzi, fresh off the handshake line, was still coming down from the intensity of the game.

"You didn’t tell me you were coming," Azzi said as soon as they were close enough. The fans near them yelling to get Azzi’s attention.

Paige let out a soft laugh. "You always lead with something I don’t expect. Never a hello."

Azzi shook her head, a small smile tugging at her lips. "I don’t have a lot of time," she admitted, glancing over her shoulder toward the tunnel, where her teammates were heading in. "But I wanted to see where you were staying."

"The Marriott, a few minutes from here," Paige answered easily.

Azzi hummed at this. "Hm. Us too."

Paige chuckled, tilting her head slightly. "Guess I’ll see you later, then."

Azzi was about to respond, but out of the corner of her eye, she saw the final straggler from her team disappear into the tunnel. She knew she couldn’t afford to linger any longer, especially after a loss. Exhaling softly, she glanced back at Paige.

"I’ll text you," Azzi said instead.

Paige gave her a small nod. Azzi held her gaze for just a second longer before turning and walking toward the locker room.

…

Later that night, Paige was lying in bed, scrolling aimlessly through her phone, when a soft knock echoed through her hotel room. She blinked at the door before pushing herself up, already knowing who it was but still peeking through the peephole out of habit.

A smirk tugged at her lips as she swung the door open, revealing Azzi standing on the other side in an oversized hoodie and pajama shorts. Paige’s gaze dropped to the shorts, taking in the tiny red hearts printed across them.

“Nice hearts,” Paige teased.

Azzi rolled her eyes, but a small smile played on her lips as she reached out and shoved Paige’s shoulder—though Paige barely moved.

Without another word, Azzi stepped inside, her expression expectant as she looked at Paige. Paige furrowed her brows slightly before realization dawned on her features. Without hesitation, she reached out, wrapping Azzi in a long, lingering hug.

Azzi let out a quiet sigh as Paige wrapped her arms around her, melting into the hug like it was exactly what she needed. Paige held her close, resting her chin on Azzi’s shoulder, feeling the tension still lingering in her body from the game.

"Long day?" Paige murmured.

Azzi huffed a soft laugh. "You could say that."

Paige smiled, pulling back just enough to look at her. "So, what? You came all the way up here just for a hug?"

Azzi raised an eyebrow. "Would that be weird?"

Paige shrugged. "Nah. I get it. I’m me."

Azzi rolled her eyes but didn’t deny it. Instead, she wandered further into the room, glancing around before flopping down onto Paige’s bed like she’d done it a hundred times before. Paige smirked at this.

"You make yourself at home real quick, huh?"

Azzi glanced up at her. "Well, you did say you’d see me later."

Paige huffed a quiet laugh, shaking her head before pushing off the wall and making her way toward the bed. She sat at the edge, glancing over at Azzi, who was already sprawled out against the pillows, arms tucked behind her head, looking completely at ease.

Azzi turned her head slightly, her gaze settling on Paige. “How’d I play?”

Paige shrugged before shifting to lay beside her, mirroring her position. “Pretty good.”

Azzi arched her brow. “Not great?”

Paige shook her head. “No, not great.”

Azzi sighed, tilting her head back against the pillows as she mumbled “I hate basketball sometimes.”

Paige turned her head slightly, studying her before adding, “Their defense was basically ‘anyone but Azzi Fudd’ so don’t think about it too much.”

Azzi let out a quiet groan, staring up at the ceiling. "Tell me about it," she muttered. "Felt like they had three people trailing me at all times."

Paige turned her head slightly, glancing at her. "They did," she confirmed. "But you were still getting good looks. You just weren't creating enough space."

Azzi gave her a side-eye. "Oh, so now you're my coach?"

Paige laughed. "I'm just saying, I saw a few ways you could’ve gotten open."

Azzi rolled onto her side, propping her head up with her hand. "Yeah? Like what?"

Paige mirrored her, facing Azzi. "Couple times, you could’ve used your off-ball movement better. They were biting hard on screens—if you slipped off quicker, you would've had more separation. I don’t know if you had anyone to make the pass but still. And when you did get the ball, you hesitated just a little too long. You let them recover."

Azzi stared at her for a moment, her competitive nature flaring just slightly. "You really sat there analyzing me the whole game, huh?"

Paige smirked. "What else was I supposed to do? Watch USC?"

Azzi scoffed. "Yeah, actually."

Paige chuckled, nudging Azzi’s arm with her elbow. "Seriously though, you played well. USC just had a good scouting report."

Azzi sighed, rolling onto her back again. "Yeah. Sucks, though."

"Would've helped if you had a more consistent shooter."

Azzi turned her head toward Paige, raising an eyebrow. "Ashlynn can shoot."

Paige shrugged. "She can, But if she doesn’t make her first few shots, she’s nonexistent the rest of the game."

Azzi hummed at this but didn’t argue, staring up at the ceiling in thought. After a while she tilted her head to look at Paige who was just staring at the ceiling now. Azzi propped her head up on her hand again as she said, “Enough about me. How was your visit?”

Paige shrugged, not offering anything more.

Azzi gave her a pointed look. "How many times do I have to tell you? Shrugging isn’t a proper form of communicating."

Paige chuckled, finally breaking her silence. "It was alright, I guess."

Azzi narrowed her eyes. "Wow. Raving review. So... USC’s out of the running?"

Paige nodded. "Yeah."

Azzi hummed, studying her. "That was quick."

Paige smiled slightly. "I know what I want."

Azzi tilted her head. "And USC wasn’t it?"

Paige shook her head. "Not even close."

Azzi’s lips curled slightly, but she didn’t press further. Instead, she just traced Paige’s arm with her fingers. "Guess that means you’re running out of options, huh?"

Paige glanced down at her arm where Azzi was touching before saying. "Guess so."

Azzi shifted slightly, resting her cheek against her palm as she eyed Paige. “How many do you have left?”

Paige knew what she was asking—how many visits, how many schools still in consideration. She exhaled softly. “Two.”

Azzi nodded, her fingers idly playing with the string of her hoodie. “Are you actually considering them?”

Paige turned her head, meeting Azzi’s gaze for a brief moment before answering. “Not really…I have to go, though.”

Azzi raised an eyebrow. “Why?”

Paige laughed. “Because they’ll report all the other schools to the NCAA if I don’t.”

Azzi let out a laugh, shaking her head. “You really have schools breaking rules for these ‘unofficial’ visits?”

Paige just chuckled, shrugging like it wasn’t a big deal. “Guess I’m a hot commodity.”

Azzi laughed at this and the room settled into a quiet stillness, the only sound the faint hum of the hotel’s air conditioning. Paige’s eyes flickered over Azzi’s face, taking in the way the dim light softened her features, the way her lips parted slightly like she had something to say but was hesitating. Azzi, normally composed, seemed almost hesitant now, her fingers playing with the string of her hoodie as she held Paige’s gaze.

Finally, Azzi exhaled. “Can I kiss you?”

Paige smiled a little at the question and gave a small nod.

With the confirmation, Azzi closed the distance between them, her fingers brushing gently against Paige’s jaw before tilting her chin up and capturing her lips in a slow kiss. Paige exhaled steadily against Azzi, her hands finding their place on Azzi’s hips.

Not long after the kiss started Azzi tilted her head, deepening it, and Paige followed her lead, nipping at Azzi’s bottom lip just enough to make her sigh.

The sound sent a warmth through Paige’s chest, and before she could process it, Azzi shifted forward instinctively, settling more comfortably in Paige’s lap, her knees pressing into the mattress on either side of Paige’s waist.

Paige’s hands slid upward, fingertips grazing the skin just beneath Azzi’s hoodie, tracing patterns. After some time, Azzi pulled back slightly, her lips parting as she exhaled.

“We can’t,” she murmured, her voice breathy but firm.

Paige, still beneath her, let out a low chuckle, her thumbs rubbing soothing circles against Azzi’s waist. “I know.”

Azzi blinked, slightly thrown off by Paige’s lack of protest. “You know?”

Paige nodded, her blue eyes flickering with amusement as she tilted her head back against the pillows. “Yeah. You spent all day yesterday texting me about how bad your cramps were,” she reminded her. “And how none of this actually makes sense because men are the ones with Adam’s apples.”

Azzi huffed out a small laugh, shaking her head as she sat back a little, still straddling Paige. “Hm. I sure did say that.”

Paige hummed in acknowledgment, her fingers still lazily circling Azzi’s waist, her touch lingering. She was looking at Azzi in the way she seemed to do a lot lately—like she had her completely figured out.

Azzi shifted slightly, her gaze flickering between Paige’s eyes as she noticed the way Paige was just… staring at her. Not in a way that made her uncomfortable, but in a way that made her feel like Paige was seeing right through her—like she was memorizing her, like she was thinking about something she wouldn’t say out loud.

Azzi’s voice was quiet when she finally asked, “What do you think about when you look at me?”

Paige’s fingers were still circling lazily against Azzi’s waist, her touch warm. She blinked at the question, lips parting slightly before she simply answered, “Too much.”

Azzi hummed at this, tilting her head slightly. “Why?”

Paige sighed, her expression shifting into something a little more distant. She took a moment, as if deciding whether she wanted to answer, before finally saying, “Don’t wanna make the wrong decision.”

Azzi didn’t respond right away, but her silence and the look she was giving her encouraged Paige to continue.

Paige inhaled deeply before saying, “Life has a way of being unpredictable and a little cynical, regardless of your intentions. So I think about everything I’m doing way too much, hoping I can control the outcome… even though chances are I can’t.”

Azzi studied her, processing the weight behind Paige’s words. Without thinking, her fingers moved to the ring on Paige’s finger, gently spinning it the way she had seen Paige do. She hesitated before asking, “Is it because of the accident?”

Paige didn’t answer right away, but the way her jaw tightened—how her fingers briefly stilled against Azzi’s waist—was answer enough. After a second, she gave a small nod.

Azzi kept her touch light as she continued to toy with the ring, her voice even softer when she said, “You don’t talk about it much.”

Paige let out a quiet breath, eyes flickering away for a moment. “Not much to say.”

Azzi shook her head slightly. “I think there’s a lot to say. You just don’t want to.”

Paige chuckled under her breath, but there was no humor in it. “You make that sound like a bad thing.”

“It’s not bad,” Azzi murmured. “Just… something I’ve picked up on.”

Paige exhaled, staring past Azzi for a moment, her thoughts somewhere else. Then, with a small shake of her head, she finally admitted, “It’s just… easier. Not thinking about it, not talking about it.”

Azzi watched Paige carefully, noting the way her fingers twitched slightly against her waist. She let the silence settle between them for a moment before asking, “Have you ever talked to anyone about it?”

Paige’s lips pressed together briefly before she shook her head. “No.”

Azzi’s brows furrowed slightly. “Why not?”

Paige exhaled through her nose, then looked up at her with a soft smile. “You ask a lot of questions, pretty girl.”

Azzi huffed a soft laugh. “And you usually answer them, gorgeous.”

Paige let out a breath, her smile fading into something more thoughtful. She glanced away before finally saying, “No point. Every time I try, I just end up thinking about all the different decisions I could’ve made. Doesn’t do me any good.”

Azzi didn’t respond right away, just watching Paige as she absentmindedly traced circles against her skin. There was something raw in Paige’s admission, something unspoken lingering between them.

“You know there’s nothing you could’ve done. You can’t control the world Paige.”

Paige nodded, but she didn’t speak, her eyes fixed somewhere past Azzi’s shoulder. Azzi could tell she wasn’t fully convinced—just because she knew it didn’t mean it was easy to accept.

“I know,” Paige finally said, her voice quiet. “But there’s just a lot from that day that could’ve changed things.”

Azzi tilted her head slightly. “Like what?”

Paige hesitated. Azzi saw the way her lips parted like she was about to say something before she stopped herself, debating.

But then Paige’s gaze shifted, fully looking at her—the way Azzi was straddling her hips, the way she was still idly playing with the ring on her finger, the way her brown eyes were searching but so patient and warm.

Suddenly, Paige just started talking. “You know my little brother, Drew?”

Azzi nodded.

Paige stared past her for a second before continuing. “That day, he was bugging me all afternoon to go get ice cream. I mean, non-stop—every few minutes for some reason. But I was tired from the games that week, and I had a workout later that day, so I didn’t really want to leave the house before I had to. But I promised him we would go… just not right then.”

Azzi stayed silent, just listening as Paige’s voice took on a more distant quality.

Paige chuckled dryly. “When it was time for my workout, I couldn’t drive because I didn’t put gas in my car the night before, so we all went together—me, my dad, my stepmom, and Drew. Ironically we had never even done that before, that was the first time everyone was coming to one of my workouts. We left a little earlier than we needed to, and when Drew noticed he asked if we could stop for ice cream.” Paige let out a small, humorless huff, eyes still unfocused as she spoke. “My dad looked at me in the rearview mirror and said it was my workout so it was up to me. And I always hated saying no to Drew and I had said no so many times that day already, so I said of course.”

Azzi saw the moment Paige started slipping away, her expression flattening, her words turning mechanical, like she wasn’t even processing them as they left her mouth.

“So instead of going straight, we turned right,” Paige said, her voice distant, like she was narrating someone else’s life. “A few blocks later, one light before we were going to turn into the coldstone, there was this Pepsi truck. I guess he was coming off the highway too fast or something. He couldn’t brake in time, so he ran the light while we were in the intersection.”

She swallowed hard.

“The truck hit the side of the car my stepmom and I were on…They say your brain is supposed to block out things like that. Make it easier. But I remember everything. I just—” Her voice faded, like the words had dried up in her throat. Her eyes were glossy, unfocused, trapped in a memory she couldn’t shake. She blinked once, slowly, then murmured, “And yeah. That was that.”

Paige let out a shaky breath before continuing, her voice rough.

“And I hated the world for so long. Sometimes I still do honestly,” she admitted, a bitter edge creeping into her tone. “Because I—I did everything right. I prayed every night, I gave back, I was generous, selfless, I worked hard, I did everything they say you’re supposed to, and that still happened. But then I remember I can’t hate the world. Because we’re all still here and healthy. I still get to play the game I love. I’m still so blessed. So I can’t even give myself the grace to be upset about everything.”

Silence settled between them as Paige just stared into space.

Azzi glanced down at Paige’s hands, noticing how cold they had become. She squeezed them softly, rubbing her thumbs over the backs of Paige’s knuckles, trying to get the blood flowing again.

“Paige,” Azzi said gently, her voice barely above a whisper. She squeezed her hands again, firmer this time, tilting Paige's head slightly to meet her eyes. “Hey.”

Azzi watched as Paige slowly came back to herself, the distant haze in her eyes clearing as she blinked a few times. Her gaze refocused, landing on Azzi like she had just remembered she was there.

“Hm?” Paige murmured.

Azzi softened her hold on Paige’s hands, giving her the space to pull away if she wanted to—but she didn’t let go completely. She just held on. “What do you need?” Azzi asked gently.

Paige exhaled, her fingers flexing slightly in Azzi’s grasp. “I’m good,” she said, but there was no real conviction behind it.

Azzi didn’t argue, didn’t push. She just said, soft but firm, “Paige.”

Paige licked her lips, taking a slow breath. “Tell me something about you.”

Azzi studied her for a moment, then nodded, shifting slightly where she sat. She thought for a second before a small smile tugged at her lips.

“Okay,” she said, tilting her head. “During CoVid, my brothers and I got so bored one day that we decided to go out on the patio and I gave them haircuts.”

Paige’s brows lifted slightly, intrigued.

Azzi grinned. “And not just any regular haircuts. I was cutting shapes into their heads. Like, just completely ruining them. I had no idea what I was doing, but they let me do it anyway.”

Paige huffed a small laugh, and Azzi could see the lightness in her eyes start to return.

“I drew a basketball in one of their heads, even added my jersey number,” Azzi continued, laughing at the memory. “It was awful. Just—bad all around. But we were dying the whole time. Even my parents came out to watch.”

Paige chuckled, the sound quiet but genuine. “They actually let you do that?”

“Oh yeah,” Azzi nodded. “We were locked in the house for months; we needed entertainment. I think they regretted it as soon as they saw their reflections, but at that point, it was too late.”

Paige shook her head, smiling softly. “That’s ridiculous.”

Azzi shrugged. “Definitely. But I think it’s one of my favorite memories. Just us being stupid and not caring about anything else.”

Paige looked at her for a long moment, then exhaled. “Sounds nice.”

Azzi gave her hands another squeeze. “It was.”

They stayed like that for a few beats, the weight in the room a little lighter now. Azzi watched Paige carefully, making sure she was really back, that she wasn’t slipping away again.

“You good?” Azzi asked quietly.

Paige nodded, her fingers brushing against Azzi’s where they were still intertwined. “Yeah,” she murmured.

Azzi studied her for a moment before speaking softly. “Thank you for telling me that.”

Paige didn’t say anything at first—just nodded again. Then, with a gentle tug on Azzi’s hoodie, she pulled her down, closing the space between them. Their lips met in a kiss that felt different from all the others—not rushed or hesitant. It was just them, existing in this moment, wrapped up in each other.

Azzi sighed into the kiss, her hands moving instinctively to cup Paige’s face, her thumbs brushing over her cheeks. Paige’s fingers curled around the fabric of Azzi’s hoodie, holding her close, like she needed this—like she needed her.

The kiss continued to slowly deepen, neither of them in a rush to pull away. It was a quiet kind of intimacy, one that didn’t need words.

Then—

A knock at the door.

Azzi broke the kiss, her head moving toward the sound as her breath came a little uneven. Paige groaned, her head dropping against the pillow.

Azzi exhaled a quiet laugh, still slightly dazed as she glanced down at Paige. “You expecting someone?”

Paige shook her head. “No.” She tapped Azzi’s leg, silently telling her to get up. With a small sigh, Azzi slid off Paige’s lap, settling back against the pillows as Paige stood and walked toward the door.

Azzi couldn’t see who it was from where she sat—the way the hotel room was laid out blocked her view—but she heard the confusion in Paige’s voice when she opened the door.

“Wassup?”

A second voice answered, a little sheepish. “I think I left my charger here earlier. And I know you’re leaving tomorrow, so I didn’t wanna be SOL.”

Paige chuckled. “Hold on, I’ll grab it.”

She stepped back into the room, her eyes scanning for a moment before she spotted a charger near the couch. Grabbing it, she walked back toward the door.

“Thanks,” the voice said.

“No problem,” Paige replied easily before shutting the door behind her.

Azzi raised an eyebrow, her lips twitching slightly. “I didn’t realize your hotel room doubled as lost and found.”

Paige laughed as she sat back on the bed. “Ha ha, very funny.”

Azzi tilted her head. “Who was that?”

“Just one of the girls from the USC team,” Paige said casually.

Azzi’s eyebrows furrowed slightly at this, and Paige immediately caught on, shaking her head. “It’s not what you think.”

“I didn’t even say anything.”

Paige scoffed. “It was all over your face.” She shifted, propping herself up on her elbow as she continued, “A couple of them came over yesterday before the game and just chilled here with me because my flight’s early tomorrow.”

Azzi hummed at this, but Paige could tell her mind was still working.

“What?” Paige prompted, watching as Azzi hesitated for a moment before finally asking, “Have you slept with anyone since me?”

There wasn’t a single beat of hesitation before Paige answered, “No.”

Azzi didn’t say anything for a moment, her gaze lingering on Paige. Paige studied her in return, waiting, until the silence stretched a little too long.

Finally, Paige spoke again. “There’s no one else, Azzi.”

Azzi looked at her, eyebrows furrowing slightly as if processing the weight of the words. Then, softly, she responded, “I know. I’m just processing why the thought crossed my mind.”

Paige chuckled, leaning back on the bed with a casual smile. “I already told you why…You were way too interested for it to be just one night.”

Azzi rolled her eyes, but there was a softness in her expression now. “You’re full of yourself,” she muttered. “I miss when you didn’t speak unless spoken to.”

Paige raised an eyebrow, leaning back against the bed with a smug smile. “Really?” she teased.

Azzi sighed dramatically, shaking her head. “No,” she said, her voice softening. “I don’t miss it, but it was... easier.”

Paige chuckled. “I’ll remember this when you’re begging me to say more than two words on FaceTime.”

Azzi smirked. “I’ll give you at least three. You probably say ‘I don’t know’ more than anyone I’ve ever met.”

Paige’s lips twitched as she crossed her arms over her chest. “You say ‘I don’t know’ just as much as I do. Don’t act like I’m the only one with the habit.”

Azzi raised an eyebrow. “I do not.”

Paige grinned. “You literally said ‘I don’t know’ like five times today before noon.”

Azzi rolled her eyes again, though it was clear she was trying not to laugh. “Okay, maybe once or twice,” she conceded, but then pointed at Paige, “But that’s because you’re always asking me impossible questions.”

Paige laughed fully. “Impossible questions? I ask things like, ‘How’s your day?’”

Azzi raised her hand in mock surrender. “Fine, I’m outnumbered.”

Paige smiled, her eyes warm with affection. “Yeah, you are.”

Azzi's phone rang from the nightstand next to the bed, interrupting their playful exchange. She glanced at the screen, letting it ring a few times.

“You gonna get that?” Paige asked with a smirk.

Azzi rolled her eyes but picked up her phone. “I was about to, if you give me a second.”

As Azzi answered, Caroline’s voice instantly filled the room, loud and clear. “Stop having sex with the recruit and come back to the room. CD’s having room checks soon.”

Azzi let out a laugh. “If I was having sex, I wouldn’t have answered the phone, babe.”

Caroline’s voice came back with a sigh. “Whatever. You’ve got like fifteen minutes.”

Azzi sighed, glancing at Paige as she responded, “Okay, bye,” before hanging up. She tossed the phone onto the nightstand, her expression now amused as she met Paige’s gaze.

Paige’s eyebrows were shot up in disbelief. “Sex with the recruit?”

Azzi gave her a pointed look, rolling her eyes. “Shut up.”

Paige stood up, slipping on her Ugg Tasman slippers. “Come on, let’s get you back,” she said, glancing over at Azzi.

“You don’t need to walk me to my room.”

Paige shrugged casually, her usual nonchalance apparent. “I don’t mind.”

Azzi pushed herself off the bed, and as she reached for her phone, Paige grabbed her phone and keycard. The two of them walked out of the room, moving silently down the hall.

The walk to the elevator wasn’t awkward—just quiet. Azzi was lost in her thoughts, her mind drifting to places she hadn’t quite sorted through yet regarding the game.

Once inside the elevator, Paige leaned her head back against the wall, closing her eyes. The hum of the elevator made the moment feel peaceful, a brief pause in their whirlwind of thoughts.

It was then that Azzi finally spoke, her voice soft but laced with concern. “Are you okay?”

Paige opened her eyes slowly, tilting her head slightly toward Azzi. She nodded, the motion small.

Azzi watched Paige as they stepped out of the elevator and began walking down the hall toward her room. She raised an eyebrow, noting the quiet shift in Paige’s energy. “Why’d you get all quiet on me?”

Paige glanced at her, a faint smirk pulling at her lips. “I didn’t. I was just letting you think.”

Azzi chuckled softly, shaking her head. “Right.”

When they reached Azzi’s door, she leaned casually against the wall, her arms crossed. Paige stood in front of her, looking down the hallway for a moment before meeting Azzi’s gaze.

Azzi hesitated, then said, “I probably won’t see you for a while.”

Paige nodded, not offering much else. Azzi studied her, noticing the subtle shift in her posture. “You did get quiet on me. What’s up?”

Paige shook her head. “Nothing. I’m good.”

Azzi gave her a pointed look, not buying it. “You sure about that?”

Paige sighed, looking down at her shoes for a moment before meeting Azzi’s eyes. “I’m just gonna miss you.”

Azzi softened at the admission. “Keep going,” she said quietly, sensing there was more to it.

Paige hesitated, biting the inside of her cheek. “It’s just—my thoughts are a lot quieter when you’re around, for some reason. It’s just a little jarring going back to that after you leave.”

Azzi’s expression softened as she let out a small pout, tugging on Paige’s shirt, pulling her closer. “You know, you make it hard to leave when you say things like that.”

Paige chuckled softly, a sheepish smile on her lips. “My bad.”

Azzi couldn’t help but smile at the unnecessary apology, her heart softening a little. “Come here.”

Paige hesitated for only a moment before stepping closer, the space between them closing. As soon as she was near enough, Azzi reached out, pulling Paige in by the waist to connect their lips.

The moment their lips met, Azzi felt Paige’s tense jaw, the tension still lingering in her. Azzi gently traced her finger along the curve of Paige’s jaw, coaxing her to relax. Paige let out a soft sigh, her body responding as she melted into the kiss, her hands coming to wrap around Azzi pulling her closer.

They stayed like that for several minutes, the world outside disappearing as they simply focused on the feeling of being with each other in the hallway. When Paige finally pulled back, her breath uneven, she murmured quietly, “Thank you.”

Azzi chuckled, brushing a strand of hair behind Paige’s ear. “You don’t need to thank me for that.”

The two of them lingered close, their foreheads nearly touching as they just savored the moment in silence, comfortable in each other’s presence. Eventually, Paige stepped back, putting her hands in her pockets, though Azzi noticed how her fingers absently toyed with the ring on her finger.

Azzi laughed softly, shaking her head. “You’re cute sometimes.”

Paige glanced at her with a playful smirk. “Thanks.”

Azzi turned toward the door, her hand moving to unlock it. "I’ll call you tomorrow," she said, her voice carrying the same familiarity that made everything feel a little more comfortable.

Paige nodded, her gaze softening. "Okay," she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper.

The brief silence between them lingered as Azzi slowly pushed the door open, stepping inside. She paused for a moment, eyes meeting Paige's one last time, before closing it behind her. Paige remained where she stood, her expression lingering. The soft click of the door locking was the only sound that followed, leaving Paige standing in the hallway for just a moment longer before she turned to walk away.

[vampiresbloodx]

I wonder how good your hands feel around my neck.

pairings: Vi x reader

word count: 1.1k

warnings/contains(18+ ONLY): smut, Vi loves her some tits, clubbing, tattoo artist!vi, innocent!reader, porn without plot/plot what plot, top!vi, dirty talk, flirting, daddy vi, fingering

You have the absolute filthiest thoughts that come to mind while getting tattooed. Some you really can’t control, they just appear and you end up fixated on them for hours, before you know it, your session has ended. 

Vi, short for Violet, is the first artist who’s ever tattooed you ever. With her pink hair, to her muscles that are covered in ink. You can’t help but wonder how strong she is, you know she’s talked about how she did boxing one time, she even tried karate, many forms where she gets to fight and use her hands. 

You know she’s good with her hands. 

When you first got your tattoo done by her, you focused on the way her fingers moved the entire time and how the art came alive on your skin, the needle not even bothering you. She was impressed at how long you can stay still. 

You were slightly surprised yourself. You didn’t mind the pain, the pain had slowly turned into pleasure meeting halfway. That’s what made it all worth it. 

You’d work more hours just to save more money so you could see her again, you thought at first you loved her style, how she worked, all that. But then you realised it was more than that. 

Almost you wanted to stop going to her, and you did for a while, focusing on other things in your personal life. Actually trying to hang out with your friends and go outside instead of only going to work and the few shops and stores you went to. It was nice for a while, you did miss her, which felt stupid when she didn’t know you at all. She was just a girl that gave you a few tattoos, some of your best. 

And then you saw her again. 

You went out with a couple of friends on a saturday night, you couldn’t describe the shock you were in when you saw a familiar pink haired girl who was at the same bar as you. Even in a big city, it's strange how you can see the same faces again. 

She was actually here. 

You couldn’t contain how much your heart was racing, you weren’t even paying attention to anything your friend was saying, she grinned when she saw who you were staring at. 

“Hey, is that-” 

“That’s no one,” you interrupted quickly, looking away.

She smiled more. 

“Just go and talk to her, it won’t be as weird since you two already know each other.” 

You shook your head, “that would still be fucking weird and you know it.” 

She shrugged, “maybe a little. But what if I told you she’s coming your way right now?” 

Wait, what? 

Before you could ask any more questions as you thought she was messing with you, it turns out she wasn’t. Just as you turned around to look where Vi was, she was really walking towards you, in your direction, maybe she might just walk past, not even notice you, maybe she saw someone else instead. 

And of course your friend ditched you. 

You heard your name being called. 

It never sounded so much nicer coming from her mouth. 

“Vi? Hey” you tried to act smoothly, as if you didn’t know she was already here. 

“I have to say, you look good, like really good.” 

Did she just?... 

Were you actually dreaming right now? 

“You look great yourself” you decided to say back, it didn’t seem like it would hurt if you flirted back a little. 

She really did though. She wore black ripped jeans, loose tank top that showed a bit of her abs that you couldn’t help but look at shamelessly. God you were obsessed with her. You had an issue. But right now all you could think about was how her hands would feel around your neck as she fucked you silly. 

You didn’t see how much closer she got to stand next to you, until your hands brushed against one another. You couldn’t focus. With the loud music blasting in your ears, the lingering touches. What did she want? 

“Where are your friends?” she asks, her eyes never leaving yours, as you bite down on your bottom lip. 

“She left, of course.” 

“She left a pretty girl like you all by yourself?” she hummed, tilting her head to the side. “Can I keep you company for a lil while? I can make it worth your time.” 

How could you ever deny her? 

You followed her back to her place, you haven’t gone home with someone in a while, you’re happier it was with her than any other stranger. 

She held your hand with a strong grip, leading you the way, making sure you were always with her. The silence between you both wasn't even uncomfortable, you actually enjoyed it. 

It was the thrill of her that was exciting to you, you craved more. 

You laughed with her as her hands roamed your body, touching you wherever she pleases and where you wanted her to be. You let her. And then you found yourself begging for more, it wasn’t long until she had you where she wanted you to be, on top of you as she teased you, slowly taking your clothes off. 

“I hate to take these pretty clothes off, but I think i’d be more happy to see your naked body” she licked her lips, you made a noise as she raised an eyebrow at you. “Someones getting needy.” 

“Please, just touch me” you whimpered.

She spread your thighs apart, keeping one hand a tight grip on them to make sure you don’t move as much. You liked it. The way she stared at you had you squirming. 

“But i'm already touching you?” she teased, and so easily, she slipped a finger inside your wet pussy, moaning at how well you fit her, she wanted to fill you up. 

“God baby, you’re soaking” she groaned, thrusting her finger in and out slowly on purpose, hearing you whine louder, she loved how vocal you got the harder and faster she fucked you. 

Her other hand played with your tits, as she groped you and fondled with them, you were on cloud nine, why didn’t you do this sooner? You both wondered. She really wanted to taste you badly. She wanted to make you cum on her face, make you ride her, hear just how loud you can get. 

She added another finger in and another, stretching you out as she imagined how fucking sexy you’ll look riding her thick strap on, as you cried sweetly. 

“Who knew you were such a slut, behind how innocent you showed yourself to others” she chuckled. She felt herself getting more turned on, getting off on how wet you are for her. “You gonna come for me, baby? Make a mess on my fingers? I want you to come.” 

You let out a sweet release of a beautiful cry, she wanted more. Your heart thumped loudly in your ears as your body shook. Still you craved her touch. You didn’t just want it to be over, and she didn’t plan on stopping anytime soon. 

“I hope you’re not thinking of leaving me.” 

“No, I need you.” 

“Good girl, now come use me as a seat, would you?.” 

[babvc-au]

Alrighty Folks! The Time Has Finally Come!

Hopefully this is everything and i didn't miss any panels or doodles for this post, but here is almost everything about BABVC's comic sketches, wips, doodles, refs, and even scripts i never finished, plus more! Doodles and other art stuff will be added to the end of this post. (Due to how many wips i have and such, there will be multiple reblogs happening as i go through this so bare with me.)

So, did you want to know how BaBvc would have went? Here's your answer. (This will contain a mix of the script, old comic wips and context)

Now, well jump to where we left off in the comic with a smol refresher.

Scene 6 Nightmare:

It's dark and bendy is in a black like void. He hears voices.

"Why? You had a chance!" OB growls.

"Who's there!?" Bendy shouts.

"Why did you resist?" OB

"What?"

Bendy's eyes are suddenly covered by cold clawed hands. And he tries to pry them off.

"Why!?" OB

"What are you talking about?! Who are you!" Bendy growls trying to fight them off.

"Don't keep me waiting much longer" we see the claws retract and three tails around Bendy.

"I'm sick of waiting"

The last shot is of Bendy's demon cross eye.

“But, how…?”

He hears a yawn from Boris as he rubbed the sleep from his eyes, “good morning, Bendy”

Boris blinks at Bendy’s hand and the bag, "You better not eat that so early in the morning, Bendy.” Boris scolded, ears pinned back.

“What? No, i wouldn't do that. But...” Bendy says, looking at the can thoughtfully. "Did you get some more after last night…?" He asked the tall wolf. Boris raised a brow at him, confused. 

"What do you mean?" He asked. "That's the same bag from last night when we went to the market right?" He asked. 

"Well yeah but, I lost it, remember?" Bendy said and looked up at his younger brother. Boris stares at him in confusion. "...You did?" He asked. 

Camera focuses on the can in his hand.

Scene 8:

Bendy and Boris enter Berry cafe and take a seat at a booth.

"So you honestly don't remember?" Bendy starts looking across the table to his younger brother.

"I really don't. I only remember us getting the stuff, and then after that, it's all blurry. Like I blacked out or something, and then it was morning." Boris replied. "Are you sure you didn't just imagine you lost it? Maybe it was a dream that you had last night." He points out.

"..." Bendy thinks, "Maybe you're right. I've been having weird dreams, and I guess it's possible." He says tiredly. "Though it really felt like I wasn't dreaming." He mumbled to himself.

Then Melody comes around shortly after and asks them what they would like to order. "Hello, welcome to Berry's Cafe. What would you - oh! It's you two, the usual then?" She smiles and lifts her paper and pen.

Bendy lifts his head and gives a small smile. "Ah, yeah, for me, at least. Boris?" He looks over expectantly for his order.

"Oh! um, what's the special today?"

"New York cheesecake drizzled in strawberries and syrup, it's so good!" she smiles and hugs her notepad dreamily.

Boris perks at that smiling "Guess I know what I'm getting now, (haha) and can I get a hot coco with that, thanks Melody."

"No problem! I'll put your order in right away." She nods and walks away allowing Bendy to see the other residents in the cafe. And surprisingly enough he sees someone familiar. His eyes widened a little, shocked.

(Isn't that-?)

Bendy looks at his right wrist and rubs it lightly.

(So it hadn't been a dream? I should probably thank him.)

Bendy stood, making Boris look at him. "Bendy?"

"I'll be back."

Bendy walks away and heads for the familiar person.

"Uh, Hey." he says. Catching Cupheads attention who opens his eyes. He looks a little confused and shocked to see Bendy for a moment.

"I wanted to say thanks for the other night you really helped me back there." Bendy says looking to the side awkwardly.

Cuphead says nothing for a minute. His shock turns to annoyance.

"Yeah, whatever, watch yourself, you're lucky I found you when I did." Cuphead says with a steady look. "Didn't your mom teach you not to walk around at night by yourself?"

"It's dangerous." He glares, narrowing his eyes.

Bendy furrows his brows at the semi aggressive tone. "Hey, I came to thank you, not get a lecture! And I wasn't by myself."

"..."

"Anyway like I said, thank you, seriously." Bendy frowned.

Cuphead stands up and looks down at Bendy, who looks up at him in return nervously as they stare at each other.

"Here you go sir, your order." Tostie says, giving Cuphead two drinks.

"Thanks," he says.

She walks away.

"There you are, Cuppy!" A new voice sounds in the cafe besides Bendy.

Mugs comes over and stands by his brother's side. Who gives him an exhausted look.

"Here." Cuphead hands him the second drink.

"Oh! Were you in the middle of something?" Mugs looks between Bendy and Cuphead.

Cuphead gives Bendy another glare.

"No. Let's go." He walks off, but Mugs falters and gives Bendy a nervous smile and a wave before he follows.

"Geez, what a jerk." (At least the other guy was nice) Bendy sweats but shrugs it off heading back to Boris.

"Was that someone you knew?"

"Uh, not exactly," Bendy says as he slides back into the booth.

It's silent for a moment before Boris speaks up.

"Bendy, listen, I know you're just as confused as I am, but you haven't told me a single thing about what happened last night, I was really worried about you."

"I know, I promise to tell you when I've made sense of it, ok? Just… give me some time."

Boris sighs, "...Ok"

Bendy looks away and out the window covered in fog with a thoughtful look. It starts to snow a little.

Scene 9

Cuphead glares ahead. (The hell? Did I not wipe his memory correctly? And what's with that weird smell?) He rubs his nose.

Mugman watches him, concerned. “What’s wrong?”

“Nothing,” Cuphead mutters. “I just need to go to the casino… again.”

Mugman frowns. “Huh? Why?”

“I’ll tell you later—unless you wanna come with me.”

Mugman hesitates, then nods. “Mmm… I’ll go with you.” Cuphead glances at him, his expression unreadable. Without another word, he keeps walking.

(Que this scene where they report to The Devil about Bendy being immune to memory wiping)

"Sir, I've come to report something." [Kneeling]

"What is it?"

"There's someone i met that's immune to memory wiping."

"..."

"Is that so..."

(Thus, The Devil orders Cuphead to keep an eye on Bendy and to report back if anything happens.)

Scene 12

Cuphead (bat form) climbs through the crack of the window in the kitchen. He hops to the ground and transforms back into his toon form. He dusts himself off and then looks up. Unexpectedly Bendy was in the doorway and saw everything.

(Que a funny nervous Bendy stares and throws a mug at Cuphead.)

Bendy runs to his couch and starts his spiel.

"What are you doing in my house!? Are you going to kill me!? You're a vampire! Aren't you supposed to stay out of houses unless you're invited!? Or something!?

"Huh?"

"Wait a minute, vampires have other weaknesses! I think I have a few things!"

Bendy runs out of the room, and Cuphead is left in confusion.

"Okay...this is weird." -sigh-

Bendy comes in and out with various "vampire deterrents"

"Garlic!?"

"No"

"A cross!?"

"Nope"

"A stake!?" (It's a twig)

"Na-da"

"Sunlight!?" (Its a flashlight.)

"Did you forget you saw me at the café?"

[jiexclusive1]

𝜗𝜚⋆ bj- p.jisung

warnings- rough oral sex (male rec.), choking, hair pulling, degradation. slapping (not a lot), hand restraint, slight cum eating, jisung is mean, dacryphilia.

Mdni!

W/c- 2k

──── ──── ──── ──── ──── ────

You and Jisung were seen to be the cutest couple out of the friend group.

You both had a fight earlier that day, but when boys had invited you both over because Mark was having trouble with his girlfriend and needed a group meeting to figure everything out. Jisung thought it would be a good idea to put a pause on the situation.

You two shared so many cute moments together, acting extra clingy in front of all your friends, so it was weird to see you both on the opposite ends of the room acting cold towards each other. For instance, every time Jisung would say something, you would interrupt with a passive aggressive, back handed comment.

"Maybe it's just a misunderstanding?" Jisung told mark.

"You do love that word." You responded under your breath, just enough for everyone to hear it.

He ignored it the first time.

"Come on, we're all mature adults here." He spoke up, responding to something Mark had said.

"Debatable." You coughed out.

He turned to you, giving you a warning glance as you lowered your head, clearing your throat.

Jisung responded once more to Mark: "I don't think you two meant to upset each other."

You cleared your throat. "Intentions don't erase consequences, but sure." You said.

Mark and Jisung both looked at you at the same time.

"Yeah, you're right Y/n." Mark spoke, nodding in agreement.

You took the opportunity to make a small face at Jisung, titling your head at him slightly, a small detail he would've missed if he wasn't looking at you so intently.

Mark noticed as well, looking between the both of you. "Are you two ok?" He piped up and asked.

"Yeah we're good. I think we're all just overthinking some things." Jisung responded.

"Some of us more than others." You said lowly, prompting Jisung to turn to you, inching closer with a dark look on his face.

"Listen, you guys can leave if you need to." Mark spoke up.

"No, we're good." Jisung said.

"No actually, I think we should head out." You responded, looking up at him as he stood in front of you.

"Well, I'm not ready to go." Jisung said, looking directly at you, his eyes full of pure darkness.

"Well, then you can find a ride home." You responded, standing up in front of him.

"If you walk out, you're going to regret it later." Jisung spoke harshly, his voice barely above a whisper, only for you to hear.

"Bite me." You whispered, a sly smirk painting your face as you walked past him.

"I'm gonna head out guys, I hope you get everything figured out Mark. Jisung's staying so you'll have his... wise words." You said, glancing back at him.

His face was full of anger as he looked at you, but then, a small smirk appeared on his face as he nodded.

"I'll see you at home." He said, inching closer to you once more, pulling you into a tight hug, his grip on your waist rough.

"See you." You responded, before turning away and walking out.

It was about an hour later, and you were in the bedroom. You heard the front door rattling, then the noise of it slamming, followed up by:

"Y/n, where the fuck are you."

You looked up from your phone, standing up as his heavy footsteps reached the bedroom door. He swung it open, his face painted with a dark expression, knuckles red as if he'd been clutching something tightly.

He didn't pause. He was on you in seconds, crossing the room, his cold hand wrapping around your throat before you could think to move.

You stumbled back, spine hitting the wall with a dull thud, a soft gasp slipping from your lips as his fingers flexed against your skin.

"Do you like making me mad?" He said, his thumb brushing along the delicate skin of your throat.

You didn't answer, just looked at him with glossy eyes, which just made him angrier.

"What, you can't speak now? You had so much to say earlier in front of everyone, now you can't speak?" His grip tightened, just enough to remind you that he could take it away if he wanted to.

Your lips trembled, but you still didn't speak, glossy eyes locked onto his.

His patience snapped..

"Y/n, you're seriously pissing me off." He said, removing his hand from your throat.

"Get on your knees, and I'm not going to ask you again." He spoke, backing away from the wall and examining your movements.

You hesitated for only a second before you obeyed, lowering yourself onto the carpet. The rough fabric rubbed into your bare knees, the friction stinging slightly, but you ignored it, keeping your gaze on him.

"Since you want to use your fucking mouth so much." He murmured to himself, looking to the side, before his gaze fixated on you again.

"What the fuck are you waiting for?" His voice was low and impatient

You got the hint. Hands trembling slightly, you reached for the buttons of his jeans, fingers grazing the cool metal as you began to unfasten them, but before you could, his hands shot out, gripping both of your wrists in a firm hold.

A startled breath escaped you as he yanked them together, lifting them slightly into the air, keeping you trapped in place.

He tilted his head, amusement in his gaze as he studied your reaction.

"You like to run your mouth so much. So use it, take them off." He replied, looking at you with a sly smirk.

"Ji—" You barely managed to whisper his name before he cut you off.

"I'm not going to tell you again." His grip on your wrists tightened just enough to make his point, his smirk deepening.

You leaned in, gripping the edge of the fabric between your teeth, tugging firmly. Your tongue pressed against the button, working it free from the hole with a slow motion.

You ran your tongue along the top of the zipper, trailing downward. The fabric of his underwear brushed against your tongue as you moved, heat radiating through the material as you licked over his clothed bulge.

"Pull them down with your teeth, I want to see it." He said, watching you intently.

You bit into the edge of the jeans, moving your head slowly to pull them down. Your hands stretched above your head as his grip tightened on your wrist. You looked up at him, silently awaiting his next command.

"What, are you stupid?" His voice was sharp. "Pull my underwear down."

"Ji, can I please use my hands?" You asked, your voice soft, almost pleading.

"No." He replied quickly. "Now shut up and pull them down."

You teased along the waistband of his underwear with your tongue, catching the fabric gently between your teeth before tugging it down.

"You know what to do." He said, his voice low.

You moved your head, licking a slow line from his base to his tip, drawing a sharp exhale from him.

"Stop teasing." He warned, his grip tightening around your wrist, the pressure causing a hint of discomfort.

You obeyed instantly, wrapping your lips around his sensitive tip, cheeks hollowing as his breathing grew heavier.

You lowered your head along his dick, taking him deeper as his breath hitched, a heavy exhale slipping past his lips. His eyes darkened, focused intently on the way your lips stretched and glistened around him.

"Is that the best you can do without your hands? Pathetic." He murmured with a taunting sigh. Before you had time to react, he bucked his hips unexpectedly, pushing himself deeper. The sudden motion caught you off guard, forcing you to pull back with a choked gasp, coughing as you struggled to catch your breath.

"Look at you, choking already, and I barely put it in. Such a useless slut." He groaned, his voice rough.

You lifted your gaze defiantly. "You just caught me off guard." You shot back, though the instant the words left your mouth, regret settled.

His expression darkened, lips curling into a smirk. "Oh yeah?" He challenged, tugging your arms upward, making your shoulders strain slightly from the sudden pressure.

Before you could respond, his free hand gripped your face, fingers pressing firmly into your cheeks, forcing your lips to pucker.

"Then do it correctly, or I'll do it for you." He scoffed.

You took him back into your mouth, moving roughly. It was definitely harder without using your hands, but you managed to maintain your rhythm. That is, until Jisung shifted forward again, his hips thrusting deeply into your mouth, catching you off guard.

You jolted back, gasping for breath, your chest rising and falling as you tried to regain composure. His sharp gaze pierced through you, a flicker of disdain in his eyes.

"You're so fucking annoying." He spoke, the words laced with contempt.

Before you had a chance to react, he released your wrists, only for his hands to swiftly find the back of your head. His grip was firm as he pushed you back down.

Your eyes widened in surprise from the sudden contact, your breath catching in your throat. The way he hit the back of your throat so quickly left you breathless, the intensity making your hands instinctively grasp at his thighs for support.

A wave of heat spread through you, and you struggled to adjust to the overwhelming sensation, your body reacting before your mind could catch up. The pressure built, and you could feel the pulse in his muscles beneath your fingers as you held on, desperately trying to steady yourself.

Fuck like that." He groaned, his fingers gripping your hair tighter, pulling you in closer as he thrust into your mouth with increasing force. His breath hitched as his control slipped away, each movement more urgent than the last.

Hot tears streamed down your cheeks as you struggled to keep up with each harsh thrust. The sensation of him filling your mouth made you gag, the sounds muffled as you desperately tried to breathe. Drool leaked from the corners of your lips, dripping down your chin.

"Fuck, tighten the back of your throat Y/n." He groaned through gritted teeth, his voice thick with lust. His grip on your hair tightened painfully, fingers digging into your scalp as he yanked you forward, forcing you to take him deeper with each rough pull.

You blinked rapidly, your eyes stinging as your eye makeup blurred from your tears, streaking down your face. Jisung didn't care, in fact, it only turned him on more. His pleasure growing with every sign of your discomfort.

"Such a whore." He panted, his voice rough and breathless as his tip collided with the back of your throat.

You moaned as his dick filled your mouth, the mix of pain and pleasure overwhelming you in a way that turned you on more than you were willing to admit.

“Bet this turns you on, doesn't it? Being used like this. Like a little slut.” He taunted, his voice low.

You squeezed your thighs together, trying to hold onto control, but the louder and more intense the sounds of him hitting your throat became, the harder it was.

“This dirty little fucking mouth.” He groaned, his breath heavy with desire. “Gonna fill it up with all my cum.” He whimpered out, head falling back in pleasure as the intensity of it all hit him.

With a few more rough thrusts, you felt him twitch deep at the back of your throat. A loud cry escaped him, his body tensing as he reached his high. Moments later, you felt his warm liquid in your mouth.

He slowly withdrew from your mouth, a trail of his cum dripping down your chin.

He paused for a moment, staring at you with a look of satisfaction in his eyes, before raising his hand to give your cheek two soft slaps. Without another word, he pulled up his pants and underwear, his eyes lingering on you for a brief second before he turned and walked out of the room.

Left alone, you were still kneeling on the floor, your throat sore, your head throbbing, and your hair tangled.

[shimmernspice]

Heartbeats and Hockey Pucks

Pairing: Hockey!Vi x reader

Request: anything with loser!vi like idk maybe college au and like reader is popular rich kid and shes something with sports honestly idc i j need loser vi.

Warnings: 18+, clumsy Vi, major pining

You're not sure when Vi started hovering around you like an eager, oversized puppy, but you've learned to expect it. At parties, in the dining hall, hell even between classes - you catch glimpses of her, always too aware of your presence. Always looking like she's debating whether to say something. It would be creepy if she wasn't so utterly terrible at hiding it.

She's on the hockey team, one of the best players, from what Caitlyn says. But she carries herself with the kind of awkwardness that you wouldn't expect for someone so athletically gifted. She could bodycheck someone into the boards without hesitation, but holding a conversation with you? That's where she stumbles.

It's almost endearing.

Almost.

You're halfway through your iced coffee, scrolling mindlessly through your phone when a shadow falls over your table. Looking up, you find Vi standing there, shifting her weight like she's preparing for impact.

"Hey," she says, gripping the strap of her hockey bag like it's the only thing keeping her tethered to this world. "Uh. You busy Friday night?"

You blink. "Depends. Why?"

She glances away, then back to you, then away again, like she's running through a dozen different exit strategies but forcing herself to stay put. You caught a glimpse of her reddening ears every time she turned.

"We've got a game. It's uh, a pretty big one if you wanna come. Or like, Y'know. If you don't have anything better to do. Which you probably do. Obviously."

It's kind of impressive how she manages to make an invitation sound like an emergency.

You tilt your head, considering her. "You want me to come?"

She makes an aggressively strangled noise and clears her throat. "I mean yeah but like- not in a weird way! Just support. For the team..."

You sip your coffee, watching her squirm. "Right. The team."

She nods too fast. "Yeah exactly, the team."

Her ears are bright red now, fingers flex nervously around the strap. She looks like she's about five seconds away from melting into a puddle on the floor. You should let her off the hook, you really should.

But where's the fun in that?

"Yeah for sure," you say, standing as your next class approaches. You let your hand brush her arms as you pass. 'See you later, Vi."

She doesn't respond immediately, and when you glance back over she's standing still, staring at the spot where your skin touched hers.

Absolutely doomed.

────────────────────────────────────────────

The locker room smells like sweat and cheap deodorant. The kind that only barely masks the stench of hockey gear that's been through too many games and not enough washes. Vi sits on the bench, hunched over as she laces up her skates, hyperfocused like it's the only thing keeping her from spiraling.

"You good, champ?" Sevika drawls from the other side of the room.

Vi grunts.

"Sure about that?" Sevika's smile is razor-sharp. "You've been tying that same lace for the past three minutes."

Vi yanks it tighter than necessary, nearly cutting off the circulation to her foot. "I'm all good."

Sevika raises her right brow. "Right. Nothing to do with a certain rich kid sitting up in the stands right now, watching your every move?"

"Not judging," Sevika continues. "I mean, if I had someone that pretty coming to my game I'd wanna impress them too. Shame if, I dunno, you made an ass of yourself out there."

"Sevika," Vi warns.

"Don't worry," Sevika slaps Vi's back hard enough to jostle her forward. "Just play the game. And if you embarass yourself then at least she'll remember you for something."

Vi mutters a string of curses to herself as she stands, shaking her nerves out. It's fine. It's just a game, just like any other one.

Except it isn't because you're there. And Vi is completely, irreversibly skewed.

────────────────────────────────────────────

You settle into your seat trying to ignore the knot of tension in your stomach. You're not nervous for the game, you're just...feeling something. It's probably nothing.

Caitlyn nudges you with her elbow, leaning in with a teasing smile. "You know, it's kind of cute how you keep staring at her," she says, nodding to the rink.

You roll your eyes, but she's not wrong. After months of Vi's very obvious pinning you were completely surprised that she even invited you to the game.

Vi's team takes the ice, and the sight of her in her full gear, skating with purpose and precision, makes your heart skip a beat. You can't deny it- there's something magnetic about her. Her awkwardness was part of the charm, but on ice it's like she's in her element.

At least, that's what you think until she spots you.

From across the rink Vi's eyes catch yours. There's a brief moment in Vi's mind where she's trying to convince herself that you being here changes nothing. The game, focus on the game, she reminds herself. This is totally a normal game and I'm not trying to impress her.

You arch your brow, raising a hand to wave. Caitlyn watches you with a grin tugging on her lips. "Ooh she noticed," she whispered, leaning closer to you. "Bet you she gets nervous and messes up."

You throw her a glance, half-exasperated, but deep down you're hoping she's wrong.

But of course, Caitlyn's right.

And just as you thought it - Vi tries something dumb.

During a break in the action, Vi glides to the center of the rink, glancing at the crowd with a hopeful look in her eyes. You can practically hear her mentally chanting, "This is it, this is the moment."

She goes for a trick.

A simple one. She's going to spin, toss the puck in the air, and catch it on her stick with a flourish. It's a move she's pulled off in practice a dozen times.

Except the universe has other plans today.

Vi spins, but the puck slips from her stick, sailing through the air and landing smack in the ice in front of her. She slips and lands flat on her back. The crowd erupts into a mix of groans and chuckles, but all you can focus on it the sound of her muffled cursing.

Caitlyn bursts out laughing, leaning to whisper, "You were saying?"

You throw her a glare but your heart squeezes in sympathy for Vi. You wonder if she'll get up. She does, and then - Vi does the most Vi thing ever.

She shoots up with the speed of someone trying to outrun a mistake, face flushed but stubborn. She gives the crowd a sheepish grin, raising her hand like she planned the entire disaster. "Totally meant to do that," she says, voice loud enough for everyone to hear. Her words came out like a half-joke half-apology.

You feel a wave of affection for her awkwardness. It's like she's been shot out of a cannon and is trying to recover mid-air. You can't help it, you laugh too even though you're trying to keep it down.

"She's something," you say, watching Caitlyn from the corner of your eye. She nudges you, "I swear if you don't ask her out after this she's going to go crazy."

You roll your eyes but your chest tightens. You don't need Caitlyn to point it out - you know your heart racing in your chest isn't for nothing. You don't know how you never realized, but after months of her awkwardness and stumbling you grew curious.

But watching Vi stand there, owning her mistake like it's part of the plan, made you realize something else.

As if she senses it, Vi looks up to meet your gaze. Vi's breath catches, her lips curling into the brightest smile you've ever seen. And there's something in the way she holds your gaze that makes your heart skip.

She knows.

You don't have to say anything; she already recognizes the shift in your eyes - the way you're looking at her, something more than the fleeting gazes you've passed her way.

And maybe, just maybe, this is the moment she's been waiting for.

[revelboo]

iiiiinch resting that shockwave has these archival records of Ye Ole Cybertronian/Organic Sparkbonds... would wheeljack have something similar on the flipside? maybe optimus, even?? cuz i cant imagine megatron making another "hey dont fuck the wildlife" psa but for lifespans ykwim??? hell, maybe kup, ratchet or ironhide might but im stumped outside of the first two guesses on if any autobots would be able to dig that up

I just like Shockwave knowing all the random, weird stuff- being a bit of a history buff. Optimus might have encountered that information when he was Orion Pax, but likely would have forgotten it by now.

Pretty much my fics are just Primus being so over his awful kids murdering each other for millennia and also wiping out thousands of organic races and worlds as collateral damage in the process that he pulled out the intergalactic get along sweater. You want to repopulate/ save the Cybertronian race from extinction? Now you’re dependent on not murdering this one organic race that might be every bit as awful about murdering each other as you are. Have fun with that.

Megatron Shitpost Pt 2

• Venting tiredly, he knows he doesn’t have that long before a brawl breaks out. Cramming this many Decepticons in one place is exceptionally ill advised, but fear and intimidation are about all that work on this rabble. “Tarantulas, where are the other bugs?” He demands, scanning the crowd. Sees the scientist stiffen, extra limbs flaring out slightly. ‘As I’ve said countless times, I’m not a bug or an Insecticon,’ Tarantulas hisses. Swallowing a growl, he presses a servo against his helm. “Does anyone know where the Insecticons are? Who’s supposed to be watching them?” And the silence that follows the question is no real surprise. Alright. So those cannibals are loose. And the little, accident prone one, what was his name? Waspinator, maybe? “What about that radioactive lunatic?” A lot of silence is his answer. That one he knows was Shockwave’s responsibility. So it’s entirely possible the scientist just turned Sunstorm loose to see what he’d do. Fantastic.

• “I know that some of you have humans or have been interacting with humans despite being told not to,” Megatron continues when no one volunteers any information on Sunstorm. “I want honesty. Everyone who is harboring a human, raise your hand. Don’t make me go check your habsuites.” And Bonecrusher finally raises a hand, but their human he knows about. “If you make me check your habsuites, I’m going to make all of you as miserable as that waste of time will make me.” There. Skywarp, Thundercracker, and- Vortex? Is that human even still alive? Rumble and Frenzy.

• “Anyone else? Alright. See Scrapper about getting modifications made to your habsuites. As for the rest of you, humans aren’t to be harmed. They’re now a protected species. I don’t care if you frag them, but don’t spark bond them. And don’t draw attention to us.” Aware of Swindle cautiously raising a hand, Megatron growls. “No, I’m not elaborating. But since you’re volunteering, you’ve always been good at acquisitions, Swindle. See if you can get your hands on human food stuffs, clothing.” Staring them all down, daring them to question him while he tries to figure out how this has become his life.

[ariahmichelle]

Fake It Till You Feel It- Part 2

Rafe Cameron x Reader Series

Series Masterlist Here

Summary: You see your ex with a new girl wrapped around him after he told you “wasn’t ready for a relationship” after you had slowly started to fall for him. The betrayal stings. Rafe Cameron is dealing with his own issue—Amelia, a girl who refuses to take the hint that he’s not interested. One night you impulsively pretend to be Rafe’s girlfriend to get her to back off. To your surprise, it works. You also notice Alex looking pissed. This starts to become an unspoken routine between you when either Alex or Amelia are around. Simple right? However, longer this goes on, the more the lines blur between what’s real and what’s not.

••••••••••••••••••••• ••••••••••••••••••••••

Part 3- An Unspoken Routine

The plan—if you could even call it that—hadn’t been discussed, hadn’t been put into words. But somehow, it had started to fall into place on its own.

The morning after Topper’s party, you half-expected to wake up with regret, wondering if you’d taken things too far by roping Rafe into your little act. But instead, you woke up to a text from him.

Rafe: Hope I was a good fake boyfriend last night. 10/10 performance, if I say so myself.

You snorted, shaking your head. Of course he’d find a way to be cocky about it.

You: Solid effort. But I’d give you an 8.5. You could’ve committed more.

A minute later, your phone vibrated again.

Rafe: Committed? I had my arm around you all night, babe. That’s Oscar-worthy.

You: Mm. A real method actor. Next time, try harder.

You hadn’t meant for there to be a next time. It was supposed to be a one-off thing—a moment of convenience, of mutual gain. But by the time another party rolled around a few days later, you and Rafe had already slipped into an unspoken rhythm.

Kelce’s house was packed, the music loud enough to make the walls vibrate, the air humid with the heat of too many bodies crammed into one space. You weren’t sure why you had come—maybe out of habit, maybe because you didn’t want Alex to think you were avoiding him. Either way, you found yourself sipping a drink by the pool, watching as groups of people played drunken games and swayed to the beat of whatever song was blasting through the speakers.

And then, like clockwork, Rafe appeared at your side.

“Your favourite person is here,” he murmured, nodding toward the patio entrance.

You followed his gaze, and sure enough—Alex had just walked in. And he wasn’t alone. The same girl from the last party clung to his arm, her manicured fingers gripping his bicep like she was staking a claim.

You swallowed down the brief sting in your chest and turned back to Rafe. “Great.”

He studied you for a moment, his expression unreadable. Then, with the same easy confidence he always carried, he leaned in slightly, lowering his voice. “Wanna piss him off?”

The answer should’ve been no. You should’ve just ignored Alex, let it roll off your shoulders, walked away and proven to yourself that you didn’t care.

But instead, you smirked.

“Obviously.”

Rafe’s eyes gleamed with something sharp and amused, and before you had time to overthink, he took your drink from your hand, setting it aside. Then, his fingers brushed against yours, his hand trailing up to your wrist before curling gently around it.

“Come on,” he murmured, tugging you toward the crowd.

You barely had time to process before he pulled you straight into the middle of the patio which had turned into a makeshift dance floor. People were already pressed together, moving to the beat, lost in the music and the warmth of the night. The moment you were in the crowd, Rafe’s hands found your waist, pulling you closer until your bodies were nearly flush.

It was dizzying—how easily he did this. Like he didn’t have to think twice about it, like it was the most natural thing in the world. And maybe it should’ve been weird, the way his grip on you tightened, the way your hands found his shoulders without hesitation. But it wasn’t.

It felt… easy.

“You sure about this?” he asked, his lips close to your ear, his voice low enough that it sent a shiver down your spine.

You nodded, fingers tightening slightly against the fabric of his shirt. “Go big or go home, right?”

Rafe chuckled, his breath warm against your skin. “That’s the spirit.”

And then, he moved.

The bass pulsed beneath your feet as you followed his lead, letting yourself sink into the rhythm. Rafe’s hands didn’t leave your waist, and when he guided you, it wasn’t hesitant—it was confident, smooth, like he knew exactly what he was doing. The distance between you shrank, and before long, there wasn’t any left at all.

You weren’t sure how much time passed before you felt a familiar gaze burning into you. You didn’t even have to look to know Alex was watching.

But you looked anyway.

And there he was, standing near the bar, his expression dark as his eyes locked onto the two of you. His jaw was clenched, his hand gripping the cup in his hand a little too tightly. The girl next to him was still talking, oblivious, but Alex wasn’t paying attention to her anymore.

A small, victorious smirk tugged at your lips.

And as if he could sense the shift, Rafe leaned down slightly, his voice just above a whisper. “Is he looking?”

You glanced up at him, ignoring the way your stomach flipped at the proximity. “Oh yeah.”

Rafe hummed, amused. “Good.”

Then, without warning, he dipped his head lower, brushing his nose against your temple before pressing a slow, lingering kiss just below your ear.

It was barely anything—a light, teasing touch. But it sent a jolt through you, your fingers instinctively tightening on his shoulders. You felt his lips curve into a smirk before he pulled back, and when you caught your breath and turned toward Alex again, you could practically see the irritation simmering beneath his carefully blank expression.

Rafe chuckled, clearly pleased with himself. “I think that did the trick.”

You exhaled, still a little breathless. “Yeah,” you muttered. “I think it did.”

After the song ended, you and Rafe finally pulled apart, and you made your way back to your friends, grabbing a drink on the way.

Brooke, Mia, and Paige wasted no time swarming you.

Brooke smirked. “So…what exactly is going on with you two?”

Mia leaned in, eyes narrowed. “Because that didn’t look fake to me.”

Paige sipped her drink, grinning. “Yeah, babe. That was convincing.”

You simply raised an eyebrow, smirking as you took a sip. “Wasn’t it?

Brooke gave you a look. “You’re having fun with this, aren’t you?

You smirked, shrugging. “Maybe.”

Mia gasped dramatically. “Oh my God. You like this.”

You rolled your eyes, setting your drink down. “It’s just a bit of fun.”

Brooke exchanged glances with the other girls before shaking her head. “Mm-hmm. We’ll see about that.”

You just laughed, shaking off their knowing stares.

Because right now, you were just having fun.

Later that night, after the party had died down and people had started to trickle out, you found yourself sitting on the front steps of Kelce’s house, nursing a fresh drink. Rafe was next to you, arms draped lazily over his knees as he stared out at the dark sky.

Neither of you had acknowledged what had happened inside. There was no need to.

Instead, Rafe took a sip of his beer before speaking. “You know… we could keep this up.”

You glanced at him. “What?”

“This,” he said, gesturing vaguely between you. “It works. You get what you want, I get Amelia off my back… everybody wins.”

You hesitated, chewing on your bottom lip. It was tempting—too tempting. It had felt good tonight, knowing you had gotten under Alex’s skin. And if you were being honest with yourself, it had also felt… nice, being close to Rafe.

But still. “And what happens if people actually start thinking we’re together?”

Rafe shrugged. “Then let ‘em.” He smirked. “Unless you think you’d get too attached.”

You rolled your eyes, shoving his shoulder. “Shut up.”

But despite your teasing, despite the sarcasm, you both knew the answer.

This wasn’t just a one-time thing anymore.

It was a routine now.

And something told you it wasn’t going to stay just a game for long.

————————————

Taglist:

@rafecameronsbaeee. @drewwhor

@wtfisastiles. @emmafitzzz

@yasmin-oviedo

[gorgynei]

hi um i was going to say “can i ask you about werewolves for a uquiz im making” but i don’t actually have any specific questions. can u infodump about werewolves for a uquiz im making /no pressure

this is like asking to open pandoras box oh man. okay heres my best go, i have a hard time infodumping on command so if you have any follow up questions please throw them at me!

werewolves werent always the scary monstery beasts we imagine them as in the modern day and they were not bipedal creatures at all until modern hollywood. historically (12th century england in particular) werewolves usually were noblemen who had this weird curse to deal with. heres an old timey werewolf transformation tidbit thats been lost over time: in order to transform back, the werewolf had to find the same clothing they originally took off to transform. if they couldnt find it, they got stuck as a wolf. werewolves were/are very very influenced by the story of peter stumpps historic werewolf trial (its arguably a historical failure to even consider him a werewolf, but thats complicated). he was a cannibal and murderer and rapist because he was just evil and all those negatives were thrust upon werewolves by association. werewolves werent 100% nice and good before then, but it marked a shift. prior to that, werewolves were generally represented a moral battle within the individual, not just a person who wanted to kill and slaughter for fun

most of the time when people imagine a werewolf nowadays they picture a big burly bipedal creature (reminiscent of an furry/anthropomorphic wolf in many ways), but that wasnt how it always was! bipedal wolf monsters are a creation of hollywood, they never existed in medieval literature or any historical werewolf documents. werewolves were just people who transformed into full-on wolves (not to be confused with shapeshifters, sorcerers, and witches, who could shapeshift but were usually not exclusively turning into wolves and had full control over themselves). its pretty easy to sort werewolves onto a gradient based on their designs:

i got totally lost in the sauce making this, but as you can see there are some clear trends that emerge and its easy to tell which things have been inspired by what other things.

i think ive run out of things to say that arent just me regurgitating the werewolf pride movement. hopefully this helps with ur uquiz somewhat !!!?

[anonymousewrites]

Lavender for Royalty; Sage for Wisdom (Book 1) Chapter Twenty-One

Kyoya Ootori x Reader

Chapter Twenty-One: Oak for Strength

Summary: The Host Club tries to help Kasanoda. It, of course, does not go as planned.

            “A werewolf! Eek!”

            Tamaki sighed as Bossanova’s appearance in the Host Club once again scared guests off. He had tried to make him cute with cat ears and a waiter’s outfit, but Bossanova’s fearsome expression wasn’t to be softened.

            “They ran away again. Despite being the ultimate healing item, even kitten ears failed,” said Tamaki. “How strange. Kitten ears have been a turn-on for guys since antiquity. Everyone knows that. And Renge said quite passionately that they’re popular with girls these days as well.”

            “Doesn’t that limit our range to Otaku only?” said Haruhi. “I mean, if you’re getting information from just Renge…”

            “I don’t know about turn-ons, but kitten ears might not be enough to counter his evil face,” said Kyoya. As soon as he said it, though, the picture of (Y/N) wearing cat ears went through his head. Cute. No way around it—cute.

            “Yeah, Boss is too soft,” said Hikaru.

            “If we’re gonna do this,” said Kaoru.

            “We need to combine kitten ears and a maid costume,” said the twins in tandem.

            “I see. I should have realized that,” said Tamaki, nodding.

            “That’s even more for maniacs!” cried Bossanova. “Are you guys jerking me around?!”

            “He’s mad! He’s scary!” said the twins.

            “I-I’m sorry,” said Bossanova. “You guys came up with so many operations for my benefit this week, but I feel like people are avoiding me even more. I’m just frustrated.”

            “Don’t worry,” said (Y/N). “It’s not your fault this time. The problem is obviously with the weird ideas they’re coming up with.” They chuckled. “I think that answer is simpler than everyone is making it.

            “No…It’s all my fault for not being able to benefit from their kindness,” said Bossanova. “I don’t look good in kitten ears or angel wings.”

            “Most people don’t wear those regularly,” said (Y/N).

            “But I really want to be a lovable person,” declared Bossanova. “Okay! The maid outfit! I’ll wear it.”

            “…” The twins grinned suddenly. Obviously, they had been teasing. But now they really got to have some fun.

l

            “I don’t know what I’m looking at,” said (Y/N). Bossanova had put on the dress, but it was over his uniform, so it was pretty…strange to look at.

            “I doubt we’ll ever have the hosts wear that,” said Kyoya, making a note to himself.

            Knock. “Excuse me.” A blonde boy poked his head in. “Is Master Kasanoda here?” His eyes landed on Bossanova in the maid costume. “M-Master?!”

            “UH?!” Bossanova was mortified, and his face contorted angrily.

            “I-I’m sorry…You’re in the midst of your secret hobby,” said the boy, bowing hastily.

            “What?! This isn’t my hobby!” said Bossanova. “Why did you come here anyway?! Get out!”

            “Please forgive me!” shouted the boy, running out of the room.

            “Bossanova, calm down,” said Haruhi and (Y/N).

            Poor Bossanova put himself in a corner. “I did it again…I hid my embarrassment by lashing out.”

            “Who was that?” said Kyoya.

            “Oh, he’s one of my men, Tetsuya,” said Bossanova. “A year ago he suddenly appearing saying he had to join us no matter what. He’s a hard worker and is always hanging around me, so he’s the one I end up scaring the most.”

            But he still goes to Bossanova. He must actually like him. That’s one more friend than Bossanova realizes he has, thought (Y/N).

            “What a grievous state of affairs,” said Tamaki.

            “I wonder what he came here for…” said Bossanova.

            “Indeed,” said Kyoya, raising a brow.

l

            “Mori is being targeting by the paranormal?!” siad Tamaki the next day.

            Mori nodded, and Honey hugged him.

            “He cut his fingers on glass, someone threw a bucket of water at him, and rotten eggs almost hit him, too!” said Honey.

            “That’s not paranormal,” said (Y/N).

            “And there’s more,” said Hikaru. “A flower pot, an encyclopedia, a VCR, a roof tile…”

            “His tile-chop was awesome,” said Kaoru.

            “Mori, are you alright? That’s awful,” said Tamaki.

            “Anyone but Mori could have been seriously hurt,” said Kyoya.

            “Did you break a Jizo statue or something, Mori?” said Kaoru.

            “Or step on Beelzeneff?” said Hikaru.

            “Is Takashi cursed?” said Honey.

            “Hey! This is no time for fooling around,” said Bossanova. “I saw all the incidents myself, and he’s definitely under attack!”

            “No way,” said the twins, waving their hands. “No one can hate Mori.”

            “How can you be sure—”

            The Hosts (most, at least) ignored him.

            “Would you like me to introduce you to an exorcist?” said Kyoya.

            “An exorcism! An exorcism! Yay!” said Honey.

            “No, send for Nekozawa,” said the twins.

            Bossanova gave up and walked out the door. Haruhi frowned and looked at (Y/N). They nodded, giving her leave to follow him while the others continued chatting.

            “So, shall we follow?” said (Y/N).

            “I can’t believe Bossanova doesn’t realize he’s the one under attack, not Mori,” said Honey, smiling.

            “At least it means we can watch him,” said Tamaki.

            “It’s good that you noticed the glass in his locker and got rid of it before he did, Mori,” said Tamaki.

            “He would’ve fought someone and damaged his reputation more,” said Hikaru and Kaoru.

            Mori nodded. He helped people who deserved it, and Bossanova had.

            “Where’s Haruhi?” said Tamaki.

            “She wanted to talk to Bossanova,” said (Y/N). “I think it will be good for him.”

            “But what about his enemies?” cried Tamaki.

            “We’ll get them,” said Honey, grinning.

l

            “This’ll teach him,” muttered a man, holding up a balloon of paint.

            “Yeah,” agreed a second.

            They threw the paint balloon, and it hit Haruhi instead of Bossanova.

            “Try again,” said one of the men.

            Two long arms swooped down and grabbed them. The men squawked indignantly. “Let go!”

            Mori wasn’t going to.

            “Mori-senpai!” exclaimed Bossanova in surprise.

            “What’s going on?” said Haruhi, looking at (Y/N).

            “We’re just cleaning up some trash,” they said, smiling while Hikaru and Kaoru tied up the troublemakers and Kyoya took a photo.

            “Hey, Kasanoda, you coward!” shouted one man.

            “You kidnapped our boss’s son and then hired a bodyguard!” shouted the second. “You kidnapper! Give our boy back!”

            “What are you talking about?!” said Bossanova, completely blindsided.

            “They were after you the whole time, not Mori,” said (Y/N).

            “We didn’t want to tell you,” said Honey. “You would’ve gotten discouraged! But Takashi found broken glass in your locker yesterday.”

            “Why didn’t you tell me?” Bossanova looked at Mori. “Instead you helped me…?”

            Mori patted Bossanova on the head, and Bossanova’s eyes widened in surprise at the kind gesture.

            “I know a villain when I see one,” said Mori. “Just be yourself. People who understand you are bound to appear. If you care a lot about your friends, they are sure to understand you. You should realize that.”

            Bossanova’s eyes widened at the honest words. But I don’t have anyone like that—

            “I thought I saw some familiar faces.” Tetsuya stepped out of the trees in the courtyard.

            “Master Tetsuya!” said the men.

            “Master Tetsuya,” repeated (Y/N).

            “Ah,” said Kyoya as they made the connection together.

            Tetsuya glared down at the men. “You play dirty because you don’t have the guts for a straight fight! I left because I couldn’t stand people like you. If you try to hurt Master Kasanoda again…I’ll send you to Hell alive!

            “Tetsuya, you…?” Bossanova trailed off.

            “I’m sorry for not telling you,” said Tetsuya. “I’m the second son of the Tokyo branch of the Sendo family. I’m Tetsuya Sendo. I’m drawn to Master’s personality. I’ve already made up my mind to leave the Sendo family and swear loyalty to the Kasanodas. I’ve always been against the Sendos’ unscrupulous policies. On a rainy day about a year ago, I had a fight with my father and left home. I had no place to go, but I couldn’t go back. Then Master came along and covered me with his umbrella, a total stranger…” Tetsuya smiled fondly at the memory.

            “I did that?” said Bossanova, surprised at himself.

            “Yes, you did. Even if you’ve forgotten, I never well.” Tetsuya’s gaze gently at Bossanova. “I know you like animals. You’re a softie for touching stories and dramatic movies. On the guys’ birthdays you secretly send them a cake. On Christmas you leave presents by our bedside

            “You’ve been doing stuff like that, Bossanova?” said the twins.

            “It looks like he was already doing what he needed to in order to show he cared,” said (Y/N), smiling.

            “As usual, Tamaki overcomplicated things,” said Kyoya.

            “Yes, but Mori came through when needed most,” said (Y/N).

            “You are shy and clumsy,” said Tetsuya. “I know it, and everyone in the family knows it as well. We can’t say anything because you’d be embarrassed. As for your scary face, sorry, but I’ll try my best to get used to it.”

            Some things are hopeless, thought (Y/N).

            “I take responsibility for their offense,” said Tetsuya, throwing a glare of the thugs of the Sendo family. “But please.” He bowed. “Allow me to stay by your side!” He straightened. “Oh! And here, I didn’t have a chance to give it to you yesterday, but the weather has been bad lately.” He held out an umbrella. “A spare umbrella! Everyone worries if Master catches cold.”

            “Sorry to interrupt such a touching scene, but you commute by car, so you don’t need one,” said Hikaru and Kaoru.

            (Y/N) grabbed them by the collar and dragged them back.

            “Th-That’s right,” said Tetsuya, growing nervous. “I’m sorry.”

            “No!” A heavy blush rested on Bossanova’s cheeks, and he held the umbrella tightly. “Thank you!”

            “Sure!” said Tetsuya, also blushing.

            “All’s well that ends well,” said (Y/N), smiling.

            “And Bossanova will cease to bother the Host Club,” said Kyoya, pleased by the development.

            “Oh, I have to apologize to Haruhi,” said Bossanova. “He got covered in paint because of me.”

            “Haruhi is changing clothes,” said Honey helpfully.

            “I’ll go find him. Thanks,” said Bossanova.

            “See you later, Master!” said Tetsuya. “We can play kick the can this afternoon!”

            “Well, we did a good deed,” said Tamaki. “They’ll live happily ever after.”

            “Boss, you didn’t do anything,” said Hikaru and Kaoru.

            “Mori was the hero this time,” said Kyoya. “He even had a speech.”

            (Y/N) tilted their head as they watched Bossanova disappear into the building. “Is he going to interrupt Haruhi changing?”

            “To say he’s thankful for the Host Club,” said Tamaki, still delusional about his involvement.

            “…Haruhi is a girl,” said (Y/N).

            The Host Club froze. Haruhi!

            “Haruhi! We’re coming to save you!” Tamaki took off running, tailed by Hikaru and Kaoru.

            “It’s too late, isn’t it?” said (Y/N), wincing

            Kyoya sighed. “Yes.” Still, there was little to do but follow after everyone to salvage the situation as they could.

            Sure enough, when the Hosts arrived at Music Room 3, it was too late. Bossanova stood outside the door with a shocked look on his face. The door was closed again, but he had seen Haruhi was a girl.

            “So you saw…” said Hikaru and Kaoru, appearing behind Bossanova with dark expressions.

            Tamaki looked like he was spiraling into space, nearly fainting.

            “U-Uh?!” Bossanova wasn’t used to fear, just embarrassment, but he was certainly feeling it now.

            “You saw? How much? You saw Haruhi’s modest body? You creep,” said the twins, advancing on Bossanova.

            “Bossanova…” said Honey. “I think perverts are scum…”

            Bossanova’s jaw dropped open.

            “Now what, Hikaru? He found out Haruhi’s secret,” said Kaoru.

            “We have no choice,” said Hikaru.

            Kaoru grabbed Bossanova, and Hikaru grabbed a bat from nowhere. “We beat the memory out of him!”

            “Cut that out,” said Kyoya. “Covering up a crime would be troublesome.”

            “I think a couple of hits are in order for not knocking before entering where someone is changing,” said (Y/N), crossing their arms.

            Bossanova flinched as Hikaru raised the bat again.

            “No, we have other matters to attend to,” said Kyoya.

            “How can you be so calm?!” said the twins. “You should’ve realized sooner that Haruhi was getting changed.”

            “We all should have,” said Kyoya.

            “Look!” Kaoru pointed at Tamaki. “Due to the shock, the boss is a mere hollow shell of a man! We refused to deal with him when he’s like that!”

            “I don’t want to,” said Kyoya. “But Bossanova found out Haruhi is a girl, so we need to confer. Mr. Kasanoda—”

            So we do know his name and just ignore it, thought (Y/N).

            “—Haruhi is in the special situation of having to hide the fact that she’s a girl,” said Kyoya. “The reason she is in the Host Club is to present herself at a boy.”

            Most of this is kind of true.

            “We don’t have the right to forbid you to tell anyone, but would you be so kind as to consider what would happen should not only the Ootori family but also the families of the other club members become your foes, hm?” said Kyoya. An insidious aura radiated from him despite the smile.

            “Hey.” Haruhi, fully dressed, stepped outside the room. “Stop threatening Casanova.” Bossanova averted his gaze in embarrassment as she approached. “I’m sorry I surprised you, Casanova. I don’t mind if you tell. I’m completely fine with that.”

            An audible crack echoed through the room as Tamaki collapsed in shock.

            (Y/N) sighed. What was going to come next? Would he tell or would he keep her secret?

Taglist:

@roo024

@jmclouds

@yappydoo

@ramblingsoftheill

@girgal73

@rockerica

@nosoyyo1213

@ritzes28

@grippledee-galaxy

@rory-cakes

@neenieweenie

@k03ume

@constellationguy

@paastaboi

@introvertathome

@chaseyui

@jexnight

@snowy-violet

@nanaloverz

[gothamite-rambler]

Cutting to the chase

This is when Bruce had a fifteen year old Tim Drake as his Robin and a what if because for me I've never liked this ship. Fictional characters or not this one is gross to me and super force. At least Dick and Babs was slightly wholesome to me.

Jim: All right, so I’d start in Bowery, then work my way around there. You look ridiculous. By the way, did you ever have sex with my daughter?

Batman (delayed shock): Right... what?

Robin!Tim (flipping through the case file folder): He said we should start at Bowery and work around. Something about your suit, then he asked if you violated his daughter.

Jim: That’s why I like him; he’s good at repeating and remembering information. So, did you ever violate my daughter? Good phrase to use.

Robin!Tim: I thought it would fit. Thanks.

Batman (clearly unsure how to react): You’re asking me if I ever had sexual relations with Batgirl?

Robin!Tim (sarcastically): Good defense, use the actual lie Bill Clinton said. Makes you look less suspicious.

Batman: I didn’t… I wouldn’t… We never did any of that! I thought we were friends, you asshole! Why would I ever have sex with her? She’s practically the same age as my kids!

Robin!Tim: I mean, outside of this, you do present yourself as a bit of a playboy.

Batman (turning Tim around): Could you read the damn folder over there?

Tim shrugged and walked off, humming a jazz tune, clearly enjoying his time researching a kidnapping case. Batman groaned, covering his eyes in frustration.

Batman: I don’t know what you’ve been told, but I swear to you, I’ve never done anything with her.

Jim (crossing his arms): Would you be willing to take a lie detector test?

Batman (flatly): Those are bullshit and you know it. You can trust me.

Jim: Ever kissed her?

Batman (grossed out): No.

Jim: Had a hug that lasted too long?

Batman: I don’t even hug actual girlfriends for too long, but no, we've hugged like five times and it was quick and platonic.

Jim: Ever had sex with her on a roof?

Batman: That was with Catwoman, and she swore to keep that secret!

Jim: I… didn’t need to know that.

Batman: The point is, I haven’t had sex with Batgirl or viewed her as some kind of sexual prospect. And I saw what you were doing with how you asked the questions to force some confession out of me, but once again Batgirl is my friend. Why is it so difficult for people to accept a man and woman can be friends?

Jim and Barbara (in unison with her voice coming through the comm device): Because we know you.

Batman: I’m into many weird kinks, yes I have had relationships that some would label strange-

Robin!Tim (from far away): He's talking about Talia, Selina, Jillian Maxwell, Phantasm-

Batman (shouting, turning to his sidekick): READ THE CASE FILE!

Jim tilted his head, chuckling at his friends reaction and beginning to be reassured he hadn't slept with his daughter.

Batman (turning back to Jim): I’m genuinely pissed off that you’d think I’d do something so… reprehensible. She’s not just my friend, she’s like a daughter to me.

Barbara (over the comms): Aww, that’s so sweet.

Batman (pressing his comm to yell at her): What did you tell him? Why would you tell him that? I thought we were friends! Why is everyone being mean to me?!

Barbara: Relax, I’ve actually been denying all of that. He said he was going to ask, though. Just be glad I talked him out of bringing a gun.

Batman (to Jim, hurt): You were actually going to shoot me?

Jim (nonchalant): Oh yeah, just in the upper thigh, between your legs. You would’ve lived. I can be overprotective at times, but a man who's only a few years younger than me… having sex with my daughter would have set me off. Not gonna lie.

Batman: Okay… oddly enough, I respect that. Thank you for asking instead of shooting me. Do you believe me now?

Jim: I do. Plus, your reaction was hilarious. For a stoic guy, when you snap like that, it’s funny. That’s why I’m glad we’re friends.

Barbara: Aww!

Batman (closing his eyes and holding his head down): I have weird friendships, but thanks, Jim.

[silentplanetcat]

I have many thoughts on this. All the Emphasis that is given to the whole “Save the [Trans] Children” schtick has always had kind of a sinister undertone for me, and not for the reasons one might think. I don’t talk about this often IRL because whenever I bring up my misgivings, people either assume I hate kids, transpeople or both. None of these things are true. Anyway, here are my thoughts:

On Those Who are Caregivers for Control: As a Professional™ I have met a lot of teachers/parents/counselors/caregivers who go into the field of “Childcare” not just because they want to help kids, but because they want to have control over kids. They may say that they want what’s Best For The Children but they also want to be the deciders of what’s Best For The Children.

On Those Who Are Caregivers for Clout: They also may be enamored with how being a caregiver for a child makes them look. I don’t have as much room to criticize because the reactions I get from people when I speak even vaguely about helping children in need are intoxicating. If I could bottle the feeling I actually wouldn’t become a millionaire. I would just inject all of it immediately into my veins. To be clear this is still Not Ideal and I realize it’s something I will probably need to work on for the rest of my life so I don’t turn into Oprah-But-White-And-Evil.

On the Fetishization of the Young: Speaking of being a Caregiver for the Clout™…I’ve noticed that within our society there is this weird fetishization of super early childhood. I know this sounds as grounbreaking as florals in spring, but hear me out. Basically, the less autonomy young people have—>the easier it is for adults to project their desires onto them —>the more they are seen as inherently good/worthy of care. I also often see this fetishization of the very young by ultranatalist shitheads like JD “We Need More Babies in America” V*nce, or by boomers overly concerned with their own mortality. This second category of people hits a bit closer to home for me because some of them are my older relatives and colleagues. They’ve already realized that, because I am a Lesbian with a uterus, my having kids is going to be a Whole Affair™ (a Spending-Lots-Of-Money-On-IVF type of affair). This fills them with anxiety about when or if I will have kids at all. I have asked them for their patience, but I still get weird comments. One holiday I was playing the part of “Cool, Childless Older Cousin with spare time, energy and income” with my younger relatives. As I was being dog-piled on the couch by a gaggle of children over the age of 3, one of my these boomers commented: “you know you can make your own, right?” WILD SHIT! -1000/10! Do Not Recommend! I am a person who very much wants to have kids and this comment/attitude still angers me! I can’t imagine how people who are child-free by choice or circumstance must feel. Kids who are older than babies are also impacted by this because OF COURSE THEY ARE. I myself remember hating that, the more autonomy I got, the harder it was to be nurtured, coddled and cared for. Then I discovered kink got therapy and was able to fill that hole be a well-adjusted person. But it was a pretty painful road.

Anyway, thank you for coming to my ted-talk about the ways in which “Save The [Blank] Children” rhetoric can have sinister undertones for me, a person who likes and works with children.

(i'm not great at wrapping words around my thoughts, so i hope this makes sense!) i like the phrase 'sex exceptionalism,' it really makes me think. this morning i also had the thought: 'youth exceptionalism' -- i have a feeling you've already thought about this, about how we sort of treat children/youth as both sacred and subhuman.

i get this hard-to-describe unease whenever i see signs saying 'protect trans youth.' like changing words doesn't actually change actions, but i wish it said something more like 'defend trans folks.' without trans elders, trans youth don't have a future modeled for them. and we lose the wisdom and insight of people who transitioned in politically tumultuous times, when doing so was at least as stigmatized and difficult and dangerous as it is now. people with the benefit of seeing changes come and go, who have the lived experience of survival-pending-liberation and trans folks helping trans folks through direct immediate action and support.

youth exceptionalism -- it gets in the way of thinking clearly and critically whenever it pops up. it seems more emotional and ingrained than conscious. i feel it around programs aimed at giving youth opportunities, with cutoff ages. which to some extent makes sense, but not to the degree of fetishization of youth & kids our culture hangs on to. one too eager to discard humans as soon as they age (or rage) out of this impressionable, doll-like imposed role.

i think it also puts unconscious stress on youth, a sense of adults/power-havers heaping dreams & expectations on the next generation. and claiming all the sacrifices they chose to make were for the children/next generation. but at the same time expecting a specific outcome, a specific return on that transactional investment.

anyway, that's my jumble o' thoughts.

I think you're getting at something real. I have never liked the "Protect Trans Youth" shirts and banners, the way that certain supportive and well-intentioned parents cling to an identity for themselves as parent to a trans kid (often putting their kid's trans status out into the open and denying them the chance at ever being stealth, should they want to be), the advocacy that gets too perversely focused on the threat of a trans kid killing themselves (as if that were the only reason to give young people rights), the fixation on protection and innocence rather than on liberation... the heart is genuine that is driving a lot of this stuff, but it still sees children as the helpless precious object of their parents, a proto-human that has to be shielded from the world rather than a human of their own, with their own right to make decisions. it still treats transness as a rare fringe case; we might as well be talking about child cancer patients, for how focused the language is on protection and death. everybody's debating about what is best for the kid, and how to best prevent harm, and nobody is letting the kids speak for themselves. there's something so cloying and inert about it. even if the Protect Trans Kids group wins every political battle they get involved in, all they've done is provide children with one exception from the usual denial of body autonomy they live with. and they only get that exception because supposedly death is the alternative and they're that rare and sick. it's not good when you really drill into it.

[communist-hatsunemiku]

Haiii Communist Hatsune Miku, it may be beating a dead horse by now but after seeing all the drama over Zako with Kai Yuuki I wanted to see what all the fuss was about, so I watched it and did enjoy the song quite a bit, I also could and did immediately relate to and the feel/vibe of the song as someone who was groomed and well.. worse, and while I care about showing how painful that kind of thing is, I feel like that song accurately got how I felt or was convinced to feel during that ordeal

And like, again it's not *that bad or really explicit* and even if it rubbed someone the wrong way, which is fine, I don't get why people would be so up in arms about it all, there's a kajillion songs out there, Vocaloid and not, which are "worse" or deal with difficult topics in many ways, and like, if you don't like it, don't watch it, there's more important things to bust the revolutionary muskets out for

Anyhow, with Miku Miku love - Ж

This ask is so appreciated and I'm just like, I think people think of victims of CSA and grooming as smol beans who cannot possibly have any agency or take a nuanced stance on media like Zako, when obviously that is not the case. I'm glad you found value in the song and I'm glad I saved it when I did! Also, I want to be clear, it really is not that fucking "bad". Like I see why we're having the conversation we are because people are freaking out about the most bad faith interpretation of the song, but like, come on.

And like you said, not everbody like you is going to interpret the song like that. And discomfort with the song is just as valid, but people have literally turned their brains off in this freak out, and any kind of conversation (aside from my blog) is shut down. I am kind of tired of talking about the song, but I really feel like someone needs to be offering a counter narrative to the bullshit going around other websites.

This freakout is a natural outcome of a culture of "consuming media is not morally neutral, consuming media endorses the themes and ideas in that media, and it is Righteous to surveil and police yourself and other people for Problematique™️ media consumption" like there are people giving themselves ulcers from stressing out about this shit.

To be honest, I used to be like that in a lot of ways! I used to really think that Bad People™️ couldn't make Good Media and vice versa, I used to have all kinds of weird shame and guilt around liking anime, and I used to be reactionary in a lot of the same ways I see people being now. Which is all another reason I think it's important to push back against this moral panic with the platform I do have here on tumblr! Like it does not have to be this stressful people!

[yall-batman-fanfic]

Teen Titans! | Teen Titans x Batmom

Synopsis: Meeting the Teen Titans, or the Titans, isn’t like meeting the Justice League, it’s more grounded; and each time she meets each team of the Titans with each different Robin, Vivian felt like she was a mom meeting her sons’ friends.

Note: Damian’s storyline follows the events of Justice League vs. Teen Titans.

Donna Troy, Roy Harper,  Karen Beecher, and Wally West. Those were the names of the group of heroes that Dick mentioned he’s teamed up with and have been working with for a couple of missions now. She’s met them all, especially Wally who was Dick’s best friend—he’s even stayed at Wayne Manor a couple of times and ran into her doing some summoning ritual in the basement. 

He thought she was summoning Satan or something and promised he wouldn't tell anyone. Dick cleared everything out and said, “Viv’s just summoning a demon for the JLA for questioning.”

“A totally normal thing to do in the basement,” Wally told Dick. 

Then there was the time he ran into Vivian about to electrocute herself with water so she can enter Hell and find something for the Justice League again. Batman was there looking after her with Zatanna. 

“Nothing is normal in this house, isn’t it?” Wally told Dick.

“Define normal, Wally,” Dick retorted. 

To say that Vivian’s well acquainted with the Titans was an understatement. She’s met them so many times that they stopped with the stiff formalities of “Professor Pryor or Ms. Pryor” and started calling her by her name or, as Wally started doing, “Aunt V”. It was cute so she let him. 

So when Dick mentioned a new member of the Titans, she thought it would be like any other day meeting the Titans. Vivian wanted to meet everyone of his friends, especially now that Dick was growing up and was taking his Robin duties all the way to Titans Tower in San Francisco, which had him away from home for long periods of time. But she made sure he was back for school too. She won’t have him missing school. 

But when she went to San Francisco for work—she was asked to consult about an artifact found by some researchers of their local universities—she decided to inform Dick and invite the Titans for a private lunch at the hotel she was staying at. Knowing they might stand out in a public place with the new member being an alien and all, Vivian ordered a private area in the hotel restaurant to meet them all. 

Vivian was waiting inside, reading through the journals of the researchers she was consulting for on her laptop, when one of the attendants informed her of guests’ arrival. She smiled upon seeing Dick and his friends. She immediately got up to greet him with a hug but then Wally beat him to it.

“Hi Aunt V!” Wally hugged her tight.

Chuckling, Vivian patted his head, “Hi Wally, how are things?”

“Alright, nothing I can’t handle. Is that pizza?” Wally zoomed to the table. Luckily they were alone at this point. 

“Yeah, I got everyone’s favorite, but we can order more for your new friend,” Vivian turned to the only face she’s never seen and met before. “Thanks, Mrs. P!” Karen said as she went to the table. 

After she was greeted by everyone else, Vivian finally got to see Dick and held out her arms to her for a hug but then her boy just greeted her with a kiss on the cheek and said with a deeper voice than she would hear him talk with, “Hi Viv, good to see you.”

Puberty? She doubted it would kick in just overnight, she spoke with Dick last night to tell him about the lunch.

“Hi, kiddo,” Vivian brushed it off. But weird. “So, I guess this is the new friend you made?”

“Teammate,” Dick corrected her.

“Right, teammate.”

“Vivian, this is Koriand'r—or Starfire—Princess of the Planet Tamaran. Kori, this is Professor Vivian Pryor, she’s a Professor in Gotham University, and my…”

Seeing his hesitation, Vivian filled it in, “Dick’s our ward. Bruce took him in when he was a kid and later I was added to the paperwork. It’s nice to meet you Koriand’r.”

“The pleasure is all mine, Professor. Dick mentioned you liked flowers. He helped me pick this out in the store for you.” She held out the small potted plant. “I hope you like it.”

Accepting the gift, Vivian smiled and thanked Koriand’r. “I’ll add this to the garden when I get home. This is really thoughtful of you, Koriand’r.”

“Kori is fine, Professor.”

“Then you can call me Vivian—no need to be all formal now, this is just a social gathering. It’s been a while since I saw this kiddo,” Vivian hugged Dick.

“Viv, come on,” Dick embarrassingly whispered.

“Uhuh,” she raised a brow at him. She sees it now. That little fucker was trying to act cool before this beautiful young woman. Seeing the glint in her eyes, Dick knew he made a mistake and prayed she not do what was going on in her head now. “Why don’t we join the others before Wally eats up everything. Is there anything you’d like to add to the food, Kori?”

“No, this all looks lovely!” Kori told her and joined everyone in eating. 

As Vivian sat down with Dick to her side, she noticed how he was close with Koriand’r and how accommodating he was in teaching some things that she wasn’t familiar with. It looks like she knows more about pizza and other junk food, she is living with a bunch of teenagers after all.

They talked mostly about their time at the Tower and the missions they were taking. Vivian was glad to see everyone was settled in and the fact Dick was learning to lead the Titans in these missions, it just shows that he was growing under Batman’s guidance and was making it on his own. When it came to more social talks, Vivian saw how Dick would talk as if he was trying to impress Koriand’r with his an octave lower voice, his works as Robin in Gotham. It was very un-Dick of him. 

“So, how are things at work? When are you going back to Gotham?” Dick asked Vivian.

“I only just saw you today and you’re already asking me when I’m leaving?” Vivian jokes.

“Come on, I’ve lived with you for years now. You and Bruce don’t really like being far from each other for a long time.”

“Hey, there are times when we do, especially when he’s off world,” she took a sip of her scotch.

“When circumstances allow it,” Dick corrected himself.

“Well, considering your summer break is over soon, I was thinking we could head back together.”

Dick choked on his food. “Seriously?”

“Yeah.”

“Viv, I can travel on my own.”

“I know you can, but you know, less fuel consumption, less plane emissions. We gotta do our part, you know,” Vivian shrugged. “You do plan on heading home before school starts, right?”

Everyone, but for Kori, snickered as Dick was getting the hot seat. 

“I was hoping to fly back to school when it starts,” Dick sheepishly said. When she gave him a look, he quickly added, “You do it, and so does Bruce.”

“Kiddo, we’re paid to do it. Our work has us go to places and land hours before our next meeting at the next state. It’s the job.”

“This is a job too.” She held out her hand. “It’s unethical!”

“Exactly. While I know this is important shit, like I said years ago when you got in trouble for skipping classes and not doing your homework, you need a steady income to pay the bills. And to pay a freaking building’s maintenance, utilities, and shit.”

“How come I’m the only one you’re telling this about?” Dick muttered.

“Wally, when are going home?”

“A day before classes start,” Wally answered.

“Roy?”

“Same.” Roy shrugged.

“Karen?”

“I might head back a couple of days early for it.”

Vivian turned to Dick, showing her point. 

“But Kori’s—”

“I’ll be fine,” Kori told Dick. “Karen offered to let me stay with her so it’s closer to the tower.”

Dick turned to Karen who shrugged and happily ate her food. Sighing, he turned to Vivian and muttered, “Fine. I’ll leave with you to Gotham.”

“I’m touched with your enthusiasm to come home,” Vivian sarcastically said and proceeded with her meal. 

“When’s the flight?”

“I’ll meet you halfway for the date. Give more time to spend with the Titans. I’ll extend my stay at the hotel–I’ll just pay for the extra nights.”

Dick smiled. “Thanks, Viv.”

“No problem, wouldn’t want to ruin whatever you have planned with Kori, right?”

“Viv!”

“Tell me, Koriand’r what has Dick shown you since you came here?”

Roy laughed and whispered to Wally, “Checkmate.”

~ * ~

Right as their lunch ended, Vivian walked the Titans down the hotel where she treated them to some ice cream from a stand and said her goodbye to them. Just before Dick could leave with his friends, he stuck around with Vivian.

“So, Koriand’r,” Vivian mused. “She’s interesting. Not just because she’s an alien, Dick, but as a person.”

Dick turned to her with a defeated look, “I took it too far, didn’t I?”

“A piece of advice, don’t try to be like Bruce. Bruce has his way of charming women that’s more natural.”

“Really? Is that how he got you?” He grinned.

“No. It was the man behind those masks. He didn’t try too hard, he was a perfect gentleman. He’s a person with darkness inside him, Dick. That’s the thing with Bruce.”

“Yet you still…”

“You have to look closer and see beyond that darkness. Behind those masks, the trauma, there is a man with a good heart, who will always offer his help even when he needs it more. It’s the goodness of his heart that got me. The other things are just a bonus,” she winked.

“What about me? What do I have?” Dick sighed.

“You, Boy Wonder, have so much to offer… you’re a good kid, Dick. And you’re charming without even trying. As corny as it sounds, just be yourself. You’ll be surprised that smart-mouth Dick Grayson can also get some action.”

“Viv.”

“You do use protection, right? I just—I don’t want to hear that call from you about screwing it up because you —”

“Viv, I get it,” he blushed in embarrassment. “So, you sure you’re going to stay longer here and wait for me before heading back to Gotham?”

“I am.”

“What about Bruce?”

“He’ll be here tomorrow.”

“Wow, he’s taking a break.”

“That he is. Let GCPD do their job. See you in a couple of days?”

“Sure thing, Vivian. And thanks for the lunch, everyone enjoyed it.”

“My pleasure, kiddo.”

~ * ~

Meeting the Titans with Damian was far different from the time she met the team where Dick was leading it. It wasn’t a lunch date with them. It involved her expertise, and during that time, she and Damian were far from being close.

Raven, daughter of Azarath, the Daughter of Trigon. When she first heard of Raven, Vivian had no idea who the girl was, nor did the Titans, so it was surprising when Dick mentioned the girl’s had magic and hails from another dimension called Azarath and got a consultation on what her powers were and how they can help her. Vivian has read about Azarath and she knows about Trigon’s existence too. Raven was the daughter of a literal demon, and a powerful one too. 

“I’d like to meet her some day,” Vivian said to Dick.

“Sure but when are you free?” Dick gestured to her open journal and saw the booked dates. “I guess not soon enough?”

“Right, I’ll try to rearrange some things…”

“Viv, it’s okay. I just want to get a good picture on where she’s at in terms of power and how Starfire can help her. It was Star who asked me to check in with our magical consultant.”

“I can’t really give a reading until I meet her, Dick. Hopefully I can find the time soon too.”

But time wasn’t on their side because the time she was about to head to San Francisco and see Raven, the Justice League asked her help off-world. She was working with John Constantine on the mission and was gone for quite some time. 

Then an opportunity arises when Bruce has Damian go to Titans Tower to learn a bit more about teamwork. 

“Don’t you think it’s a bit too far?” Vivian asked Bruce as she watched Damian throw his things to Dick’’s car and get in the vehicle without even saying goodbye. He was obviously upset–pissed–with his father sending him away to “hero camp” and won’t even speak to any of them. Vivian tried to wave at him goodbye but he only glared at her.

“He needs to learn how to operate in a team, and I think the Titans can give him that. He gets to work with heroes his age,” said Bruce.

“He’s just a kid, Bruce.”

“He’s not. He’s raised to be an assassin. He never got the childhood that either of us had.”

Vivian sighed. “He’s your son, it’s your call.”

“Viv, that’s not…”

Vivian walked towards the car and knocked on Robin’s window. He looked at her for a moment and when he wouldn't pull it down, she used magic to open the damn thing and keep it open so he wouldn't close it on her hand. 

“Your father won’t do this unless he knows it’s good for you,” Vivian told him.

“He just wants me out of his way,” Damian replied.

“Well, I think this is a great opportunity for you to meet more kids your age and hang out with them. You’ll learn more from them.”

“We both know that’s not the case. One of the few things we actually agree on, Professor.”

Vivian sighed. “Listen, I’ll call you to see how you are once you get there.”

“I don’t need to be coddled.”

“I’ll still call anyway, you know why? Because I care.”

“You’re not my mother, Professor, let’s make that clear.”

“You’re right, I’m not. But I’m here, Damian, and even if I’m not, I still care. For each one of you. So, if you need anything, just call me, okay?”

“I don’t need your help.”

“Yeah, love you too, kid,” she let go of the window and got out before he shut it over her hand. 

“He gave you a heartfelt goodbye?” Dick teased her.

“He was actually sweet about it, and gave his love and kisses. Look after him there?” Vivian hugged him goodbye.

“I do not understand where you find patience with this kid.”

“He’s a kid, Dick. We all have our thing. Yours, while understandable with what happened, was anger management.”

“Yeah, yeah, I know. I’ll call you once we’re settled in and give updates on Damian. I’ll also have him back before school starts.”

“Paperwork isn’t even done yet, keep him for as long as you want,” she laughed.

“Can’t say we won’t chuck him to the bay by the time we bring him back. See you around, Vivian.”

“Bye, kiddo, say hello to the team for me!”

“I will!” Dick said goodbye to Bruce and Alfred, then hopped in the car then drove away. 

Rejoining Bruce, Vivian sighed and said, “It’s like sending your kid to summer camp.”

“Is it a good feeling or not?”

“Damian and I might not be as close as the others but I’ll miss the little brat.”

~ * ~

Vivian shot out of bed, gasping, as she felt the dark power enter the world. 

“What is it?” Bruce got up and held her shaking body. She was sweating coldly. “What do you need?”

“I… uh… something’s wrong—someone opened the gates of hell and something got out, something powerful,” Vivian shook her head to try and figure out what and how to find it. “I need to see for myself.” She got out of bed and was heading to the bathroom.

“Vivian, no!” Bruce grabbed her wrist. “I will not let you go there—we can contact Constantine!”

“Constantine is most probably drunk in some pub after losing a game of poker to some demons (he was, specifically in Las Vegas), we can’t afford to wait for him and sober up.”

“Damnit, Vivian!” Bruce could only watch as she entered the water-filled tub and sat down, still wearing her pajamas. He knelt down beside her and held her hand as she prepared herself. “Don’t even think about going down there.”

“Water is a shortcut-gate to travel across realms. Don’t worry, I’m not going to drown myself, I just need to do a ritual.”

“Which is?”

“Going underwater and see how long I can hold my breath.”

“Don’t–”

Vivian dove in, releasing all her air inside, and then cast the ritual’s spell. One moment, she was seeing a distorted image of Bruce above water. After blinking, she found herself standing in a throne room with a pyre at the very middle, the walls made of bones and obsidian. She knew this place, she’s been here several times. Damnit, why did she not bring her coat when she went underwater? Hell is freezing!

“Vivian Pryor,” a demon appeared from the shadows. She was beautiful, seductive, with a warrior’s body, then she turned to fully face Vivian showing the other side of her face. Rotting flesh and bone. A state of decay, which was what Hell was. “It has been a while.”

“Mazikeen, I wish to speak with your Lord,” Vivian said.

“Vivian Pryor,” a sultry voice echoed in the halls. Climbing the steps, a handsome man with golden blonde hair wearing white tux, and beautiful feathered wings appeared before them. He was smirking as he greeted her. “While I find your character amusing, I do not appreciate it when you World Walkers think you can simply walk into anyone’s domain without observing proper decorum.”

“Don’t talk to me about decorum when one of your own has entered the Mortal World,” Vivian glared at him. 

“Strong accusations.”

“I felt its power, and I know they took someone’s body. So do not lecture me about processes on knocking on your door when your freaking parasites go about as they please to get to ours, okay, Luci?”

“Watch your tone, Pryor,” Mazikeen warned her.

Vivian ignored her. “Who is it? What are the movements? I could smell sulfur in the air and it woke me from a really good night’s sleep.”

Lucifer sighed and sat on the edge of the pyre, lazily looking at her, “None of mine… entirely. As you should know, Hell isn’t exactly singular. It has many dimensions, just as your world has its own, so I cannot command all of them, my jurisdiction of Hell has its limits. But I can give you a hint, because we are good friends.”

She noted the sarcasm in his voice.

“The 8th Ring has made movements. I have no hold on it, but all I can say it is a home of a being that is far stronger than the All Mighty,” Lucifer shrugged. Mazikeen smirked, knowing who it was.

“You’re not telling me who, aren’t you?” Vivian asked the demon and the Devil.

“Now, where is the fun in that?” Lucifer got up from his seat and towered over her. From the pocket of his suit he handed her an old piece of parchment. “You have your clues, now do the work, Vivian Pryor.”

“My Lord,” Vivian bowed slightly and walked away. 

“And Vivian… my dear son has been asking for you… he misses you, oh, so dearly.”

Mammon.

Without looking back, Vivian reversed the ritual and was back in the land of the living, leaving Hell. 

“Sir, we have a heartbeat!” she heard Alfred’s voice. “She’s waking up!”

The first person she saw, as soon as she opened her eyes, was the old Butler looking at her with relief. “Welcome back, Ma’am.”

“Alfred,” Vivian coughed, her body showing steam from the cold temperature that was adapting to this tad bit warmer climate. “Where’s Bruce?”

“I’m here!” Bruce came to her side and carried Vivian from the tub and settled her on the toilet. “Vivian, what is it?”

“He gave me a hint,” Vivian opened her palm and showed it to him. 

“Is that?” Alfred gasped.

“Straight from Hell,” Vivian opened the parchment and saw the drawing of a gigantic demon with four eyes, and a body that can crush worlds and gods in one swoop. Lucifer wasn’t joking, this being could be more powerful than the All Mighty. “He’s not from our Hell. He’s from an 8th Planet of Hell, so I doubt our old tricks can work with him.”

Bruce’s phone sounded, it was from the League. “It’s an emergency. Superman’s been compromised.”

“I’ll go with you. You don’t know what you’re facing, Bruce. You need an extra shield with you.”

Arriving at the scene, Batman and Vivian saw Superman rampaging on the street, defeating Atomic Skull that was already down and near to death. Just as the Kryptonian was to attack Wonder Woman, Bruce got out with a kryptonite to weaken the Man of Steel.

“It is coming, and you cannot stop it,” Superman spoke in a voice that was not his. From the Batmobile, Vivian jumped out as she saw the Kryptonian’s face change to the face of the demon that was on the parchment Lucifer gave her. She cast a spell to protect Bruce from that creature.

“Batman, it’s got him!” Vivian told them, “Step back from him—Wonder Woman, get in the circle!”

“Superman, something’s controlling you. Something from Hell,” said Batman, trying to get the man out of this demon’s hold.

“You have your part to play, both of you.The girl will be taken,” said the demon in Superman’s body.

“Girl?” Batman wondered.

Superman shot into the sky, flying to wherever he is to go, just as Diana was to follow, Batman stopped her.

“We cannot let him–” Diana began.

“I’ve alerted Trevor, in any luck, military satellites would track him for now.”

“And what would we do? We just wait for him to pull the moon from the sky?”

Bruce stop in mid-step and glanced at Vivian’s direction, who too considered the possibility. “He hasn’t said anything about doing something like that, has he?”

“No, but…”

“We’re both targets. We can all be targets. Go back to that island of yours and lock yourself in the deepest and darkest tomb you can find,” Batman got in the Batmobile with Vivian. “I’ll call you.”

“You can’t expect me to wait and do nothing.”

“Worth a shot.” As the doors of the Batmobile closed, Bruce drove away, heading back to base. “Vivian, I wouldn’t ask.”

“But you are, and we both know I would still do it.”

“I need you to do your research on this thing and find out what he meant by a girl. As of now, you’re our supernatural expert in this.”

“And you? What will you do?”

“I’ll try to track Superman’s location… I’ll drop you off in the manor.”

“No, you’re bringing me with you.”

“Viv.”

“Bruce, we don’t know what that is, and right now we are using some doodle that Lucifer made on a piece of parchment to figure out what that is; and that thing is after yours and the JLA’s asses, the best we can do is stick together so I can use whatever spell I can find to drag that thing’s ass back to the 8th dimension of Hell.”

“You stubborn, woman,” Bruce muttered.

“Yeah, well, you know what you were marrying into. Should have spoken up when Alfred asked if there’s any objections.”

Bruce smiled and took her hand. 

~ * ~

“I found him! His name is Trigon, and Lucifer wasn’t kidding about his power,” Vivian showed Bruce and Cyborg the books. She has been going through the books she conjured in the JLA Sanctum, right beside Cyborg and Batman who were trying to track superman. “He’s a Conqueror of worlds, he takes what he wants and destroys what he wants. He needs a powerful host that can help him get to the human world.”

“The girl he mentioned,” said Bruce. “He knows someone who can be the host.”

Vivian’s teeth gritted at the thought of another person being hunted to be a host. Vivian could imagine what this girl was going through. “I can contact Midnite, ask him if there’s anything suspicious going around.”

“Hold on, we’re picking up energy signals,” said Cyborn. “The reading is off the charts.”

“Demons,” Vivian identified the energy signatures. “And a lot of them.”

“Where is that?” Batman asked.

“San Francisco?” Cyborg identified the location on the map.

“Bruce. Damian,” Vivian reminded him.

“Alert the Titans, we need to get to them,” said Bruce.

Arriving at Titans Tower via Boomtube, the League and Vivian were met by the group of teenagers. She first saw Damian, and then her gaze turned to the girl. She knew that girl, Dick showed her that face.

“Raven?” Vivian said in a whisper, and slowly realization came. She was the girl who this Trigon was after.

“Professor, what are you…” Damian began.

“We heard about the attack, was she at the center?” Batman questioned the Titans.

“Her father is an interdimensional demon, he was after her,” said Starfire.

“She’s coming with us.”

“Batman,” Vivian tried to calm him down.

“No, we can handle this,” Damian stepped up.

“If she’s part of this, we need to know.”

“We can protect her.”

“I’m sorry, Robin, but you had two magic attacks and Superman is still missing,” Diana added.

Raven gasped as she clutched her head. Vivian was about to approach her but Robin blocked her way with his sword.

“Damian, I know what she’s going through,” Vivian tried to reason with him. “I let me help her.”

“By taking her in and locking her in some cage? I know about you, Professor and that demon inside of you,” Damian glared at her.

“That’s not what I’m –”

“No! He knows they’re here!” Raven spoke. “He wants them here! If they stay, everything will be lost!”

“Who?” Barry asked.

“This is our job, Father, you have to leave!” Damian pressed on.

“FATHER?!” Jaime and Garfield exclaimed, completely in shock to know. 

“She’s coming with us,” Batman said.

“She stays here,” Damian declared and prepared his sword. Coming to his side were Jaime and Beast Boy ready to attack. The Justice League too prepared for a battle.

“What? No!” Vivian stepped between them, hiding Damian and Raven behind her. 

“Vivian,” Bruce spoke.

“I’m sorry, but this isn’t—I know that this is important, but you can’t possibly be thinking about battling this when the enemy is out here!” Vivian scolded her husband. “We can talk about this.”

“There’s no time, Vivian!”

“Damian,” Vivian glanced at him. “I can help her. I can bring Raven to a dimension and help her hide until we solve this. There doesn’t have to be a fight. We all want what’s best for her.”

“They want to lock her in a cage!” Damian argued.

“That’s not true! Listen to me, put down your goddamn weapons and fists, and we can do this civilly. This is way out of your depth and you know it.”

“Too late, they’re here,” Raven said.

From the shadows, the demons arrived and wrapped itselves around the Justice League, Vivian conjured a spell and had the Titans inside to protect them.

“Bruce!” Vivian called out to him as she saw him struggle to inject himself with a toxin that would save him. 

“FATHER!” Damian was about to go to him but Vivian held his arm to stop him from leaving the circle.

“STAY BACK, BOTH OF YOU!” Batman told them as he injected himself with the toxin, the demon retreated instantly as the man fell to the ground. 

“What the hell?” Jaime exclaimed.

“It’s a nerve toxin, from Bane,” Vivian explained as she held her stance. As the Justice League fully transformed, Vivian prepared herself for battle.

“The Kryptonian has found the Shrine,” said Wonder Woman in the demon’s voice and command. 

“The what?” Jaime asked.

“An ancient shrine built by Satanists, it has magical properties,” Raven explained.

“Maybe I should suggest that to my little problem instead of it trying to claw its way into my body and use it as a freaking gate,” Vivian muttered.

“What?” Damian asked, confused.

“Nothing.”

“You are the shrine’s final piece,” said the Flash.

“She’s stays here,” Damian pulled out his sword. He pushed Vivian away and attacked as Flash came at them. He made a cut at the speedster’s leg to immobilize him but the demon healed him instantly. The Titans was being defeated by the Justice League with the League’s power and expertise in battle, and the fact they were controlled by demons.

Vivian was thrown across the wall by the powerful Amazon. Diana was fast. Too fast for Vivian to cast a spell. She felt the air punched out of her lungs in its impact. She heard Damian call for her as she tried to get back up, but just as she was struggling to get on her feet, the Amazon came and stopped on her back and used the Lasso to strangle her.

“Don’t!” Raven begged the demons.

Holding out her hand, Vivian tried to cast a spell to open a portal for Raven to go to the dimension she said and wait for Constantine. The House of Mysteries was John’s but she can open its doors whenever she needed to. 

“Professor!” Damian tried to get to her but the Flash got to him and was using his speed to go push his hand through Damian’s chest without damaging the body.

“Damian!” Vivian tried to get out of the Lasso, but Wonder Woman only pulled on it.

“As the daughter of your Lord Trigon, I order you to release them… and I shall go with you,” said Raven.

A beat passed and the demons did as she said. They released them and they joined Raven as she opened a portal to where the shrine was, but before Cyborg could leave, Jaime shot an electrocuting device from his Beetle armor and had Cyborg down, leaving him with them as Wonder Woman and Flash disappeared with Raven.

Inside the Tower, Vivian was given proper medical treatment by Starfire to treat her dislocated shoulder, possible concussion, and her neck and throat. Wonder Woman’s lasso did some damage and left a nasty bruise around her neck. The entire time she was being treated, she was at Batman’s side, keeping watch on him.

“How are you?” Damian asked.

Vivian smiled, “Fine,” she tried to speak but her voice was hoarse and it made her cough out blood.

“You mustn’t speak, Vivian,” said Starfire. “You need rest to let it hear.”

Vivian nodded and smiled at the woman.

“You can rest in my room,” Damian offered.

Vivian shook her head and gestured to Batman who laid on the couch with an oxygen mask.

“He’ll be fine, the crucial hours have passed, he’ll survive. Father knows the risks and he’s calculated it to ensure he comes back after it.”

Vivian rolled her eyes and gestured that she was staying there with Batman.

“He’ll survive, but you…” Damian looked at her, removing his mask. “You risked your life without any experience in fighting nor do you have the same level of power as the Justice League and knowing full well that you would die if you were caught in the crossfire!”

“Damian,” Starfire tried to get him to stop.

“Why?!”

Trying her hardest, Vivian spoke with her hoarse voice, “Because I care, Damian. I care about you.”

“That’s foolish –”

“Enough,” Starfire stopped him. Damian looked at her one last time then left. “You can take the chair and wait for Batman to recover, Professor. I’ll get you a blanket so you can rest.”

Vivian smiled at Starfire and bowed her head in thanks. 

Cyborg woke twenty-four hours later, at that time Batman was still unconscious and Vivian was forced to take Damian’s room to rest. Her mind couldn’t take the pain of getting beaten up by an Amazon anymore. She woke just as the Titans were to leave with Cyborg and head to Hell.

“Don’t even think about going with us,” Damian told her with a threatening tone.

Vivian held out her hands and cupped his face.

“What are you–” He fell silent when he saw a gold glow around him that dimmed as soon as the spell ended.

“Protection spell,” Vivian told him. “For all of you.” It was then he realized Vivian cast the spell for the entire team. Then, to his surprise, Vivian leaned down and placed a kiss on his forehead. “Come back, okay?”

“I will.”

And before he left, Vivian handed him the parchment that Lucifer gave her, now with her own writing at the sides. A way to trap the demon.

“You were working in the room, weren’t you?” Damian said.

Vivian smirked and shrugged. “Go get ‘em, Boy Wonder.”

~ * ~

The battle ended with Raven trapping Trigon back in the stone that Raven trapped him in before. As soon as Batman was recovered, he and Vivian met with Damian and the others to see the aftermath. To her relief, Damian was okay and so was the rest. After dealing with the aftermath of the battle, Vivian returned to Titans Tower and finally got to know Raven a bit more, and understand her power. She offered to give her lessons on binding spells and ways to keep her father from haunting her, and the girl agreed.

“I can also bring Constantine, he’s a twat but he’s got more experience in magic,” Vivian told her as they walked out of Titans Tower where her ride was waiting. Batman was there talking with Damian by the Batmobile.

“It was nice talking with you, Professor,” said Raven.

“And with you. And thank you for looking after Damian, and for giving him a chance.”

“He has his way of showing he cares. Goodbye, Professor.”

“Goodbye, Raven,” Vivian waved goodbye. Approaching Batman and Robin, Vivian gestured to the man that she was all good to go. “So, I guess I’ll see you once summer break is over?”

“I guess,” said Damian. “Professor… I… thank you for standing up for us… for me.”

“Anytime, Damian,” Vivian messed with his hair. 

“But I stand by what I said about you facing an enemy you have no chance of beating.”

“Damian,” Bruce warned him.

“No, Father… Batman can find another Robin if ever I die, but the Professor… losing her, I know that is a loss you will never recover from.”

Vivian frowned. “Damian, you’re not just Robin. You’re also a son. Your Father would be devastated if something ever happens to you. I would be devastated.”

“Even after all I did?”

“Even after all that, kid.” Vivian smiled. “Promise us you’ll come home?”

“I will,” he smiled. “And Professor… I… it's an honor to have you as my stepmother.”

His statement stunned Bruce and Vivian that the two adults were speechless for a while, until Vivian brought Damian to a hug.

“Okay, you can let go now,” said Damian. “I said, let go.”

“Okay, okay,” Vivian released him. “See at home, kid!”

Getting in the Batmobile, Vivian and Batman drove away, leaving Titans Tower behind him and Robin looking forward to seeing his family back in Gotham.

[nepenthe-den]

First Touch

Hazard x Gn/reader. SFW

Word count: 1.3k

I'm sorry I've been gone for weeks :( I've been touching on this every now and then and I still love Hazard and have many ideas. Work and school have been a big burden this month, but I've managed to finish this to a way I like it.

I hope you all like it ♥️ I have more planned

The party with the Phreaks was long, but felt quite short. There was alcohol but you had only taken a few sips. You still had to walk home after all.

The bustling laughter of Hazard, Jackdaw, and Boomslang was beginning to slow down. Touch-Up had discreetly begun gathering empty glasses and plates to place in the sink.

You were beginning to grow quite drowsy as well, but you really really didn't want to leave. You felt so at home with these people. Suzy was right when she told you it was like a family.

You didn't know how to "family" very well, but tonight felt really natural.

"Ey, Jackdaw, sit back yer face is 'bout to smack intae the table." Hazard smacked Jackdaw's shoulder lightly. They grobbled a laugh and swayed before Revel grabbed their shoulders and shoved their torso back against the chair.

"Actually, I miss my bed.." Jackdaw hummed, leaning their head to hang off the chair before gagging and jerking back up, "Oh nevermind I'm not doing that."

"I think Jackdaw needs their nappies." Boomslang laughed, taking one last swig of her drink. Jackdaw was too wasted to even respond to her, but their un-synced blinking was a good enough answer.

Revel sighed with amusement before standing up, "I'll get them some water and help them get to bed."

"Goodnight Jackdaw," You snickered, smiling at their own wobbly smile and lazy wave, "Are you going to come back out, Revel?"

"Nah, I think I've had enough socializing for the night." Revel helped Jackdaw to their feet.

"Well, Goodnight to you too, Revel." You said as he nodded at you, helping Jackdaw down the hallway.

"Are any of you getting tired, too?" Suzy asked.

"Only a bit." Boomslang responded.

"My usual sleep schedule has me going to bed in almost 2 hours." Touch-Up sighed, "I'll be the last one asleep, I think."

"Nah," Hazard yawned and leaned back to stretch, his shirt riding up just a bit- and oh fuck you were staring. You quickly looked away praying your face wasn't red. You hadn't noticed the glance Boomslang and Touch-up shared.

"I am," You sighed, "and I should leave before I get too tired."

"Eh? Yer leaving?" Hazard stopped stretching and looked at you.

You laughed gently, "Yeah, I have to go home."

"You don't- er, want t'spend the night?" Hazard cleared his throat.

Boomslang narrowed her eyes and looked at Touch-up, who had her brows raised. Hazard quickly glanced at them, trying to ask without speaking.

"Well I didn't exactly bring my toothbrush." You say, turning away to get out of the chair and hide your flushed cheeks.

'You're bad at this' Boomslang mouthed at Hazard, leaning back in her chair.

'Help me out here' Hazard mouthed back, glancing at you to see if you were still turned away before looking back at Boomslang. She only smirked in return, turning her gaze to Touch-up, who was no longer amused.

You turned back around once you had gathered your things. You barely saw Hazard snap his head back around to you, his face uncharacteristically you flushed. You suddenly felt very hot from awkwardness. A moment or two of silence left you and Hazard blinking at each other.

"Well! Me and Touch-up are gonna head to bed." Boomslang announced, resting her hand on Touch-up's shoulder.

"Wha-? I told you I don't go to be-"

"Yeah, she's really tired." Boomslang shushed her, turning her away by her shoulders. She leaned forward to whisper something in her ear. Touch-Up sighed begrudgingly before waving you goodnight and walking off.

"Goodnight you two! Have a safe walk home, Y/n." Boomslang said, following Touch-up.

You turned to Hazard before bursting out laughing. His face changed from quite worried to relieved.

"That was weird, why'd she do that?" You snorted, slinging your bag over your shoulder.

"I dunnae, Jackdaws shenanigans are rubbin' off on Boomslang."

You sighed, "Well, goodnight Haz, I had a lot of fun tonight."

"Wait," Hazard stopped you, standing from his chair. He cleared his throat, "Lemme, eh, walk ye home. It's nearly midnight."

"Really? You don't mind?"

"Nah, I like spendin' more time wi' ye." His voice became very gentle, and your face flushed deeply.

"It's cold out, and the walk is almost half an hour."

"I don't care, I want ye to get home safe." Hazard reassured you, making your heart thump in your chest.

Ugh, you were so head over heels. If you weren't standing in front of him you would have fallen to your knees.

He opened the door for you and walked beside you. At nearly midnight. In cold as fuck weather. The next 5 minutes were awkward and silent. You couldn't think of anything to say, and neither could Hazard.

"Why didn't you drink anything?" You suddenly spoke up. You turned your gaze from the sidewalk to look up at him.

"Oh, ah, I don't like it. Ma old man was an alcoholic... I like tae stay away from it." Hazard sighed softly.

Your brows furrowed, "I'm sorry."

"It's alright, I donnae mind telling you." He smiled at you, and you returned a smile of your own.

A couple more beats of silence. And then you- just- started speaking and you don't know where you got the confidence.

"I had a lot of fun tonight. I liked being with you all. I felt- I felt so at home. I felt so natural." Your throat began to tighten, and you took a deep breath to calm yourself. "I like being around you." You made eye contact with him again.

Hazard swallowed nervously, and you could barely see his flushed face in the dark. He was surprised, and very nervous. Gosh, what should he say? The more he remained silent the more you regretted speaking.

You felt the prickles and heat of embarrassment, despite that, the cold wind chilled your hands. "Hah- ah, I should have brought gloves." Attempting to change the subject, you looked away quickly and rubbed your hands together to warm them up.

Hazard laughed quietly before taking one of your hands in his, making you jerk your head at him. He intertwined his fingers with yours and looked you directly in the eyes.

"I like being aroond ye, too," He finally said, "I want to spend more time wi'ye. Just the two o' us. I was thinking.. maybe, uh, dinner?"

Your smile widened and Hazard laughed again. You nodded quickly and tightened your hold on his hand.

"I'd like that."

"Yeah?" Hazard looked like an excited puppy. "How 'bout tomorrow? I can pick ye up from work?"

"Well I'd like to go home first and make myself look nice."

"Oh! Right, well ah think ye look nice all the time but- I can pick ye up at 6 then? Or 7?" Hazard's excitement was amusing you to no end.

"7 is fine you big goof." You giggled.

The rest of the walk back to your house wasn't as quiet. The two of you talked about your job, about Hazard's next mission with the Phreaks, and even Maisie. You found it endearing how Hazard always found a way to mention his dog.

Soon enough, you reached your front door. You really didn't want to let go of his hand, but you knew he couldn't spend the night.

Slowly and gently, you untangle your fingers from his and stand in front of your door.

"Thank you for walking me home."

In yet another flash of confidence, you leaned up to kiss his cheek. Hazard froze for a moment, his hands nearly coming up to hold you. He was speechless for a moment.

"Wow, hah! Do ah git a kiss every time I walk ye home?" He exhaled.

Gosh, your cheeks were going to hurt with how much you were smiling.

"If you ask me on a date every time." You hummed, "Goodnight, Haz, I'll see you tomorrow."

You slipped inside the house, leaving Hazard to cheer silently and take a few deep breaths before walking back home.

[mythalism]

I think part of why Blackwall has the option to get off easy is definitely down to his willingness to be submissive and contrite. I think it also helps that we find him at the tail end of his "redemption" rather than in the middle so he's already acknowledge his wrong doing and is resolved not to repeat the crime, he is technically already trying to atone for it when we meet him as he was going to join the wardens as a self-imposed "punishment" though I would still argue his behavior can be considered cowardly as he is running away from his crimes rather than taking responsibility. If he were unrepentant I think the writers would treat him differently, as would the fandom. I think also the amount of power and sway the inquisitor has over Blackwall plays into it. Blackwall by the time we meet him has no real agency over his fate and no power to do any harm or good on a wide scale without the inquisitor. No matter how hard he might try to, in his words "want to do good and be good" it's out of his hands. There is no point during the game prior to the inquisitor potentially redeeming him that he is a free man.

i think you are right about a lot of this and i especially like your use of "submissive" to describe what blackwall has that anders and solas do not. and while i agree that contriteness and repentance are important parts of blackwall's more positive narrative framing, i dont think that can be the smoking gun because solas is famously remorseful and apologetic, at least at high approval, but that does not buy him the same narrative goodwill that blackwall gets. anders isnt repentant at all but. you know thats just anders. anyway that is why i think you nailed it with the "submissive"ness being the key. solas is apologetic, repentant and contrite and expresses repeated remorse for what he is doing and has done, but he does not submit to your (the player) will. he is more powerful than you. you cannot convince him. the same is true for anders. both of them are unstoppable and are one of few things in thedas that are completely outside of the player's control. and when you look at video games as a power fantasy, as many people do (not me tho... stay safe out there) this inhibits the power fantasy and makes people uncomfortable. blackwall, on the other hand, submits to your will and judgement.

i think this is especially interesting in regards to solas's non-redemptive endings and epler's comments regarding the fantasy of being right. blackwall says "im sorry, i was wrong and you were right" but solas says "im sorry, but i am right". im too lazy to find it but epler cited this fantasy of "being right" verbatim in one of his AMA rants about how important it was to him that solas be fooled and defeated by the player. blackwall lets you be right, lets you decide what to do with him, returns agency to the player. solas and anders refuse.

whats weird then is that the writers wrote them like that on purpose, and then turned around and villainized them both later. i think to that end, @kraujuota's reply on my original post about the implicit bias we have towards state-sanctioned violence being permissible versus revolutionary violence being evil is probably our best bet at explaining that lol