#so guess who’ll have to watch the show tonight against their will

[northseas]

absolutely farcical that the netherlands has been disqualified from eurovision and not ya know The Other Place

[lokilover2341]

High Nights And Sober Daze

Roommate!Sukuna x AFAB Nonbinary!Reader

Another long ass day at work  *sigh*. Making their way through the front door of their shared apartment, Y/N slipped their shoes off and locked the door, leaning against it wearily.

“Bad day at work” Sukuna, one of their several roommates, called from the sofa. They ignored him trudging their way to their bedroom. Sukuna peeps in, having followed you. “ Hey, I rolled up a blunt if you want to shower real quick and join me.” “Yeah actually, that sounds good,” they reply, exhaustion heavy in their voice. Quickly pulling their butterfly locs up so they didn’t get too wet, Y/N hopped in the shower opting for a quick wash down rather than their usual full spa-esque routine. 

  Heading out to the patio where Sukuna was waiting, Y/N realized that two of their other roommates, Luis (their ex) and Octavia (his newest girlfriend) (this is what happens when you end up stuck in a multi year lease with someone who decided to cheat not once but twice) were also home. Offering a quick wave out of politeness, they attempted to escape what is usually a very awkward conversation. Not to say Y/N and Luis weren’t capable of being civil to each other, the problem that arises is that Octavia seems to think they are competing over everything. “Oh hey Y/N, guess what Luis got me today for no reason” Octavia chirped with a sly smirk, pushing out her hand to show you a beautiful crystal opal ring set. “Actually you…” Luis tried to interject. “It must really suck not having someone who’ll just buy you presents, huh?” she spoke over him. “ Actually I’m not big on receiving gifts as I am giving them, but thank you for your concern I guess” Y/N replied smoothly sliding out to the patio before Octavia had an opportunity to reply. 

  Sukuna let out a chuckle as they closed the sliding glass door, “Lemme guess she showed you that dumbass ring set she practically had to beg Luis to buy.” “Yeah.” “It's not like it's anything special, the chances of any part of that being real is low given how much of a cheapskate Luis is” Sukuna laughed as he lit the blunt in his hand. “There’s no need to say such rude things about Luis, it’s not like I care either way.” Y/N motioned for Sukuna to pass the blunt over tired of being sober most of the day and wanting to relax. “I’ll stop being rude when that idiot actually grows a fucking spine instead of letting that bitch walk all over him.” “I’ll take things that’ll never happen for 200, Alex” Y/N joked. " Did you maybe want to cuddle and watch a movie?" Sukuna asked hopefully. "Well I don't work tomorrow so I can stay up pretty late but you do know you don't have to ask to cuddle, we share a bed we already cuddle.” Y/N arched an eyebrow at him. “ Aww c'mon you’re no fun. Besides you know what I mean, I just want to be buried in your chest.” “Sure but no getting handsy like last time.” Y/N conceded. "Scouts honor, babe." he said lying through his teeth.

As the pair walked back in heading to their shared space, they were quickly interrupted before they walked through the living room. "Hey Sukuna, did you maybe want to hangout when Luis leaves for work tonight." Of course she'd try some shit like this. Y/N continued to walk to the room not sparing a second glance at Octavia. "I have far better things to do than sit here with you, while you drool over me like you don't have a boyfriend." Sukuna's face honestly looked as though he stepped in dog shit, though as far as Y/N was concerned he did when it came to Octavia. Y/N sat down waiting for Sukuna to join them, deciding to scroll on Hulu looking for something interesting. While preoccupied with their search, they didn't notice Sukuna launching himself on to the bed, knocking all of the air out of them. "OH MY GOD SUKUNA IF YOU DON"T GET YOUR HEAVY ASS OFF OF ME!" Barking out a laugh he (albeit reluctantly) rolled off of Y/N. “So find anything to watch or are we going to stare at the Hulu search menu all night?” “Hmmm I was thinking..” “If you say Blood-C again I'm biting you.” Sukuna looks over to see Y/N trying to muster up the best puppy dog eyes they can manage. Sukuna sighed rolling his eyes at them. “Would it kill you to watch anything else?” Y/N giggled at his question. “Why don’t you choose then? You know I suck at finding new shows.” “How about a horror movie?” After he picks a movie for the two to watch, Y/N let's him cuddle up against their chest with him softly humming in content.

[imaginemalereader]

Anonymous request

“Well if it isn’t our very own Triwizard Champion.” You said, leaning against the doorway as Cedric approached the classroom.

“Not you too.” He groaned, but still smiled as he always did when he saw you.

“You’re the talk of the town, well school, Ced. You know that.”

“I know. I guess I’m just already a little tired of it all. Maybe I just want some normalcy with someone.” He shrugged. He was excited about the tournament, sure. But people were already getting so competitive and some downright nasty which was taking some of the fun out of it.

“Oh just someone huh? No one in particular?”

“You know there is.” He threw his arm around your shoulder, pulling you into the hallway. “In fact, I was thinking we should have a date this weekend.”

“An excellent thought.” You agreed.

“Good. Friday night then?”

You nodded and now the both of you were smiling as you walked down the hall back to your dorms. 

You had only a few days to wait before Friday came around, but you were excited and spent every day wondering what the night would entail. Time seemed to pass so slowly but soon enough it was Friday and you were waiting outside the Hufflepuff common room for Cedric.

“Good evening.” Cedric greeted as he opened the door.

“Evening. You look nice.” You complimented. Of course, he always looked nice to you.

“So do you.” You smiled and ducked your head at the compliment. “Shall we?”

“We shall.” He offered you his hand and began to lead you through the castle. You made your way through the passageways, navigating the moving stairs, slowing making progress toward the top of the castle.

“Where are we going Ced?”

“You’ll see. It’s worth it, I promise.”

Seeing no other choice, you shrugged and continued with him. Eventually, he opened a door and showed you a rather empty room.

“What is this?”

“Come look.” He once again pulled you forward. Along one wall was a large bank of windows, out of which you could see the lake, the Quidditch pitch, and the faint lights of Hogsmeade in the distance. 

“Quite a view.” You said.

“It’s a good place to get some perspective. I come here a lot when I need to think. I wanted to share it with you.”

Well that, that was sweet. You smiled and squeezed his hand.

“Thank you. I’m glad you’re willing to share it with me.”

“Of course. Plus,” he turned away from the window, “I’ve got some good stuff stocked up here.” He pointed you to a corner and you saw a mound of blankets and pillows along with small stacks of books, sweets from Honeydukes, and several games.

“The tournament is going to take up a lot of my time. But I thought tonight could be just for us.” He added.

You smiled and picked up the chessboard from the stack.

“Well the I hope you can spare some of your competitiveness for me, because I intend to win this.”

“We’ll see about that.”

The two of you sat down on opposite sides of the board and began the first of several rounds. You laughed and teased as the games went on, with you taking a couple more victories than your boyfriend.

As the day began to end and your brains grew tired of strategizing, Cedric suggested you settle down and watch the sun go down. You moved some of the pillows and blankets in front of the window and the two of you cozied up together, watching as the sky changed from blue to pink to orange.

Despite it being early still, you found yourself tired and cuddled further into Cedric. He simply smiled and held you a little tighter.

“You’ll be safe, won’t you?” You asked suddenly.

“Sorry?”

“In the tournament.” You clarified, sitting up a little as you were now more awake. “There’s a reason it hasn’t been done in so long. It’s dangerous. Promise me you’ll be careful.”

“Of course I will. I’ve got someone to come back to. And who’ll love me no matter what.”

“Hmmm, I don’t know. I don’t know if I can date someone who isn’t a champion.” You teased.

“Oh is that so?” He asked, poking your side in response. You yelped and pushed him away.

“You little-”

“handsome.”

“Stop it.” You laughed and stuck your tongue out before settling back into him. “Badger. You little badger.”

“If I’m a badger then you’re-”

“I know. I win.” You interrupted.

“If you say so.”

You smiled again and pulled him closer to you. Him being in the tournament scared you, but you were so incredibly proud that you got to call him your boyfriend. And tonight, that was all he had to be.

[floralseokjin]

The Zoom Halloween Party

⇢ and beyond timeline (after crystallised)

[saga index] [drabble index]

 kim seokjin x reader // slice of life, humour // 2,556 words  

a/n; thank you to all the anons who gave me ideas for this halloween drabble, it wouldn’t exist without you! 

“I have to say your costumes are pretty lame this year, you guys.”

“We’re having a Halloween party over fucking zoom, forgive us for not going all out.” 

Seokjin bit straight away, unable to help it. He and Namjoon were like cat and mouse at all times, but even you had to admit to being offended by your friend’s dismissal. 

Halloween was finally here, and while you couldn’t celebrate in person together, the marvels of technology were letting you celebrate virtually – although this was more like a Halloween hang out than a Halloween party. 

“I’m just saying,” Namjoon shrugged. “Hoseok went all out for his.” 

You looked over at Hoseok’s screen, watching him smile smugly. You had to admit he made a great Joker, but it was also the year 2020... He and his girlfriend, Nora were like two years behind with the whole Joker and Harley Quinn gimmick, it was old now. 

Seokjin rolled his eyes, willing to argue black and blue. “It’s only good because his mom helped him with the makeup.” 

“Oh shut up, you’re just jealous because me and Hoseok will win best dressed tonight!” Nora scoffed under Hoseok in her own little screen. 

Pouting like a baby, your boyfriend crossed his arms. “I’m not voting for you.” 

“If anything, I should win. I make a mighty fine Batman.” 

Attention back on Namjoon now, you all had to agree. But maybe that was because everyone was feeling sorry for him tonight. He was after all, the only single one amongst you. There was Jin and you, Lina and Jimin, Hoseok and Nora, and even though Sandeul was on his own tonight, he had Jess, who was working the night shift tonight. Two months ago there had also been Namjoon and Hana, but not anymore... Let’s just say Namjoon wasn’t having the best of time lately... Getting dumped during a pandemic wasn’t ideal. So he’d paired with Hobi and Nora tonight in some sort of DC-esque collab. He was definitely winning best dressed tonight, but maybe he’d see it as a pity vote… 

“You’re body looks amazing in that suit, Joon,” you complimented, hearing Lina hum in supportive agreement. 

“Hey!” Seokjin exclaimed, sounding mighty offended as he looked your way. You were smushed together on the couch, the takeout you’d ordered on your laps, but you were pretty full now, a belly full of wine already. 

“The devil and an angel though.” Jimin’s voice sounded awfully judgemental. “Come on guys, so basic.” 

“Well, who the hell did you to come as?” Seokjin was loud. 

“Zombie Jim Halpert and Pam Beesly,” Lina replied as if your boyfriend was dumb. 

“Lame,” Seokjin scoffed. “Half of these guys haven’t even watched The Office.” 

“It’s a way more original idea than yours.”

You scoffed. “Um, this is the epitome of everyone’s sexual fantasy, I’ll have you know.” 

“Whose?!” Lina roared, wrinkling her nose. She and Jimin were also squished together, but on his bed, the camera angle giving you an amazing shot of their chins... Not that you would tell your best friend that, of course. 

“We all know what they’re doing after this then,” Sanduel stated. He was dressed as some character from a game he and Seokjin played (a lot.) Nerds.  

“Stop,” Hoseok whined. “Does that mean you guys fucked as The Addams family couple last year?”

“Of course it does,” Namjoon replied matter-of-factly. 

“Jesus.” 

Ah yes, you two really had out done yourselves last year for Namjoon and Hoseok’s joint Halloween party. Thinking about it maybe your devil and angel costumes were quite lame this year…

“As if you didn’t guess,” Lina laughed. “They were reciting all those weird lines practically dry humping in the kitchen at one point.” 

That was your cue, slamming into action, although as luck would have it you had re-watched The Addams Family two nights ago. You gripped Seokjin’s face, yanking him to look at you. “Seokjin, last night you were unhinged.” You began dramatically. “You were like some desperate, howling demon. You frightened me.” A pause for effect. “Do it again!” 

Seokjin took your hand, in character immediately. He leaned down to kiss your knuckles. “Cara mia.” 

You opened your mouth, ready to purr out mon cher in your best French accent but you were interrupted by Namjoon’s gagging noises. “That’s it, I’m leaving.” 

Seokjin snapped his head around, unamused. “Bye.” 

Everyone laughed… just before Hoseok sighed. “Aw, this makes me so depressed. I miss last year, when things were simpler.” 

“This was the worst year to officially become an adult.” Nora joined in with a whine. 

They were 100% correct. There couldn’t have been a worse year to graduate… The past few months had been so stressful but thankfully you were now in a much more stable place. Granted, you hadn’t been able to start the post-graduate internship you’d bagged right before the pandemic hit yet but eventually it would happen, and in the meantime you still had your retail job – and your savings. 

Seokjin had truly lucked out, although his job at his father’s company had been set in stone since high school. He was working remotely until the end of the year (hopefully), rocking that business on top, casual down bottom fashion that he was so gleefully fond of – think a dress shirt and sweatpants ensemble – but you were so incredibly proud of him for adjusting so well after this shitfest of a year. He was your sexy, serious businessman. 

Your friends hadn’t been as lucky though – well, mainly Hoseok and Namjoon who had recently moved back home with their parents while they job hunted. (That’s why the former and Nora were on separate screens – she still lived close by for work.) Lina hated her new job and Jimin still had a year left at college, so maybe he was better off at the moment... Sanduel and Jess were okay too, and had recently moved in with one another, leaving you and Seokjin to… follow suit… 

It came as a surprise to you both, but it made more sense than the two of you living alone. You’d already grown used to it during those couple of months of lockdown at the start of the year and it felt weird after he’d left... It was a big step, but an easy one once you’d found the most perfect apartment to rent together. (You couldn’t officially live with one another in that shoebox of an old apartment, but it had been sad to leave it – you’d shared so many good times there.) It had only been about six weeks since you’d become official roomies, but you were loving every second of domestic bliss. Despite this crazy year, things were on the up, and you were very happy. 

“Now we’re freshly graduated bums.” Namjoon moaned, knocking back the last of his beer.

Seokjin laughed. “Speak for yourself.” 

“We can’t all have a CEO for a dad,” Namjoon shot. 

“That sounds like a you problem.” 

You pushed at your boyfriend’s shoulder, silently telling him to behave. Where was the sympathy for his heartbroken friend?

“At least you’re not stuck doing online classes.” Jimin piped up. 

“I’d actually kill to be back there,” Namjoon chuckled. “I’m sick of receiving rejection emails.” 

“Don’t give up hope, bro.” Hoseok told him. “I have an interview next week so fingers crossed.” 

Nora squealed. “I hope you get it, babe. You need to get your ass back here. I miss you.” 

You all missed him. And Namjoon. Even if you couldn’t all hang out like you were once able to, it was strange to think they were both living in different cities now. Last year seemed like an eternity ago, all you had were memories and even then they were murky. 

“Guys, please,” Namjoon wailed, forehead hitting the screen as he threw forward dramatically. “One of us is single here.” 

“Sorry.” 

In fact, you all felt the need to apologise, a string of them following for no real reason other than you felt really bad for the guy. You knew he’d find a job soon, that wasn’t the problem really – whatever the company they’d be a fool to turn him down – you were just concerned about his mood. Getting dumped had come out of the blue so he was still adjusting, all while his life turned upside down in other ways too. 

He hadn’t lost all sense of humour though, his trademark smirk growing across his face a few moments later. “So who will end up fucking on camera first?” 

Amongst the groans, Sanduel scoffed. “Probably Mr and Mrs. Devil.” 

“I’m an angel,” you corrected, a glass of wine back in your hand now. “Also, why would we fuck on camera? You guys don’t deserve the show.” 

“God, you’re so drunk,” Lina screeched. She wasn’t exactly sober herself. Beside her Jimin winced at the volume. 

“Of course I’m drunk, Lina, this is the first proper chance I’ve had in months.” Getting drunk alone was pretty miserable, now you had an excuse. 

“So it’s definitely them who’ll start fucking first…” Hoseok muttered. 

Seokjin heard him loud and clear though. He hooked his arm around your shoulders, pulling you against him. “Yeah if we leave randomly you know this angel got horny for some devil dick.” 

“Seokjin!” You exclaimed, pushing at his chest. He just laughed, reaching down to kiss you. 

He did look mighty fine dressed as a devil though. Yeah, the red cape was basic but so were your angel wings and halo, but with his dark hair pushed back above his forehead, two red devil horns visible and his eyeshadow off the scale (your doing), he made a very, very sexy Satan! 

Jimin pulled a face. “You’re actually going to fuck in those costumes, aren’t you?” 

“Of course we are.” Seokjin rolled his eyes. “That’s what Halloween’s all about.” 

“No, it’s not,” Nora laughed. 

“I don’t know why you’re all so surprised,” Sandeul sighed before shovelling down some candy corn. 

“You know them better than anyone,” Namjoon chuckled. 

“I was the first to know! Sworn to secrecy for weeks!”

“Yeah, and she didn’t tell me for so long,” Lina whined. Even though it was ages ago now you were still pretty sure she was salty about it. 

Hoseok snickered. “It was because she was embarrassed to be fucking him.” 

You scoffed, about to refute his claims but Sanduel had more to say apparently. “And then I had to deal with Jin moping around when she dumped him for that basketball player.” 

“She didn’t dump me,” Seokjin protested. “We won’t together then.” 

“Bro, you were still moping though.” 

“Awh, you guys,” you whined, running your fingers through the hair on the back of Seokjin’s head. “Stop teasing him.” You leaned in to kiss his cheek but he moved, stealing one from your lips instead. 

“Great Deul, you’ve started them off again.” Hoseok moaned. 

“I don’t care anyway. The amount of times I’ve heard them going at it has made me immune.” 

“Sanduel, we’re not that bad!” You complained, leaning forward to place your glass down on the coffee table. 

Seokjin had your back. “As if we haven’t heard you and Jess fuck before.” 

That however was not at all interesting to your friends though. They blatantly ignored it for a more interesting direction of topic.  

“Did you ever catch them?” Jimin asked, sounding weirdly excited. 

“No actually, which is baffling.” 

“You nearly did – multiple times,” Seokjin informed him, which instantly turned Sanduel grey. Not bothered, my ass. 

“Why are you guys so obsessed with our sex life?” You whined loudly. Was theirs that boring? 

“Ooo, let’s play a game!!” Lina exploded suddenly, sitting up, her head now cut off from the screen. “Who’s the freakiest!!!” 

Seokjin turned to you gleefully. “We got this in the bag, babe.” 

In your eyes, the questions were quite tame, so yes, you and Seokjin really were scoring first place left and right. Although you had a hunch Lina was holding back information. As her best friend you knew what she was like and she was being awfully quiet for someone who’d suggested the game… 

“Where’s the weirdest place you’ve ever boned?” Nora asked, six questions in. 

Seokjin didn’t even need a second. “Namjoon’s bedroom.” Your eyes bulged immediately, surprised he’d gone there. 

“What?” Namjoon choked. 

“Sorry, man. It just kinda happened.” Seokjin glanced at you, deeply amused. Poor Namjoon didn’t need more bad news. 

“You guys have fucked in my bedroom?” 

“Well, technically it’s not your bedroom anymore, but yeah,” you shrugged.  

“When?” 

The third degree was real. “A while back.”  

“What the fuck you guys,” he groaned, his face a picture. “And you didn’t think to tell me?” 

“You don’t even know the half of it.” Lina couldn’t help but add. 

“You, be quiet!” You warned, although you knew she wouldn’t spill. Your secret was safe with her. 

Namjoon was looking more and more scared by the second. “What the fuck did you guys do in there?” Seokjin just laughed loudly. “Did you at least clean up?” He got no reply. He was deadly serious with his next question. “Did you make Ryan watch?” 

“Namjoon!” Seokjin cried, practically wiping tears from your eyes. Maybe he was more drunk than you… You hadn’t realised. “He’s a stuffed animal.” 

“That plush is all I have now.” 

“Pity, the guy’s recently been dumped. This is bullying,” Hoseok interrupted, sticking up for his friend. 

“It’s not,” your boyfriend insisted. 

“Aw, Namjoon, I’m sorry,” you apologised, feeling guilty now. How could you make it up to him? “When all this is over you can come over and fuck someone in our bedroom.” 

“What,” Seokjin protested. You ignored him. 

“Who though?” Namjoon asked, sounding sad. 

“You’ll meet someone new soon enough.” Lina reassured him. “You’re any girls dream guy.”  

He perked up at that. “You think so?”

“Legit, man,” Jimin joined in. 

“Wait,” Sandeul interrupted, seemingly realising something. “Is the costume roleplay exclusive to Halloween?” 

… Of course the conversation was back on you and Jin…

“Why?” You asked. 

“Because Namjoon had a fancy dress party for his birthday last year…” 

Seokjin shrugged. “Any celebration.” 

Sanduel instantly looked disgusted. “So you guys fucked as The Incredibles couple?” 

You and Seokjin didn’t reply, but your faces said it all. 

Namjoon groaned loudly. “I want to scoop my brain out.” Then he thought of something. “Was it in my bedroom?” 

“Noooo!” 

“Yes.” 

You both replied at the same time and you pushed Seokjin. Now he was just purposely teasing his friend. 

“Who’s lying?” Namjoon demanded, but Sanduel was too busy going through it, distracting you all. 

“The Incredibles is my favourite childhood movie, man, now I feel gross. I can’t watch it ever again because I’ll imagine you two trying to superhero fuck.” 

Your friends were way too dramatic. It wasn’t even a big deal, they were making it out to be way kinkier than it was, and Seokjin wasn’t helping matters. You were literally just having normal sex dressed up. That’s all. 

“This game has taught me I’m best friends with a bunch of vanilla ice creams,” Seokjin tutted. “It’s called having fun. Something you guys can’t seem to do.” 

“You all suck!” You agreed. 

Hm, maybe you were just as guilty as your boyfriend… It was just too damn amusing goading your friends… 

[sh1tbird-shantytown]

Tommy doesn’t know who Queen is and Steve goes on a quest to get Tommy to listen to all different types of music. Billy gets dragged into the shenanigans. The three of them start hanging out together when Steve falls asleep, but he has a super bad nightmare. (I think they were probably drinking or smoking weed or both before. Which made the nightmare worse.) Then comes cuddling with Tommy choosing the music and light teasing.

i love this so much. they’re all musically ignorant in one way or another anyway. lemme just sprint with this now :)

---

He was just trying to get his history books, it wasn't his fault that their lockers were right next to each other. Or that Tommy was apparently living under a heavy rock.  

“I’ve never heard of Queen, unless you’re talking about the Queen of England or some shit. Other than that, I’m at a loss.” Tommy was yapping to one of Carol’s friends. Sarah? Betty? They all looked the same honestly. 

“What do you mean you’ve never heard of Queen?” Steve hadn’t actually really meant to just start abruptly start speaking to Tommy again, but here they were. In the hallway. Around nosey onlookers. And Sarah-Betty who was definitely staring and definitely not happy for the intrusion. 

Tommy grinned boyishly, “Talkin’ to me again, Harrington?”

Steve didn’t let up, “You haven’t heard of Queen? Freddie Mercury? Brian May? They’ve been all over the radio for years, man.” Tommy died down a little with the snarky attitude, but the flare was still there through the dilution. 

“I don’t know, Harrington. Guess I have too many people around to pay attention to the radio much anymore.” Tommy crossed his arms and Steve almost gave up as the bilious emotions started up towards the boy again. 

Steve shook his head, “Meet me at my house tonight at 6. I’ll order in and I’ll show you myself what Queen is. ‘Kay, Tom?” Now that really took the other aback.

“It’s been, what, a year?” Hands on his hips just as Steve was doing, “All of a sudden you’re interested again?”

Steve looked him in the eye and nodded, “Six o’clock on the dot, Tommy. Be there!” he pivoted on his heel and blended in the crowd.

He had the pizza box and the stereo up and ready to jam long before the bell rung. Only three minutes late. It was honestly a record for Tommy, Steve knew for a fact that Tommy had the worst time management skills. Which also made Steve a little on edge as he opened the door. He wasn’t actually that surprised to find Billy Hargrove right there beside Tommy. Both grinning in their own devilish manners. 

Steve vamped them with the most unimpressed look he could produce and traveled back inside, “Well, come on!” he ordered impatiently. 

Billy spoke up first as they entered the living area, “Nice place, very...” he seemed to contemplate a moment as he examined the vacant side tables and mantle, “Modern.”

“Tell me about it,” he rolled his eyes, “I’ll go get beer,” he started making his way towards the kitchen. “Pizza’s on the coffee table, don’t make a mess.”

When he returned there wasn’t any mess on the floors or furniture, but Tommy had enough sauce on the corners of his mouth and cheeks to slather a whole slice itself.

“Oh, Tommy,” he sighed and grabbed a napkin to clean the sauce before it dried. Billy and Tommy stared like owls but Steve ignored them and instead focused on putting the first cassette in. “Now listen, no one gets to speak.” He pointed to the table, “You have free food and drinks, so indulge me,” he took his own seat on the floor between them. A Night at the Opera. 

“Well this is eerie,” Tommy griminced and bit into another slice. His face lifted a moment later as the song changed gears, “Oh wait, no I change my mind, this is cool.”

“Have you found a new toy to replace me? Can you face me? But now you can kiss my ass goodbye Feel good, are you satisfied?”

Steve looked at Tommy and found him already looking back. 

Billy coughed, “Next, Pretty Boy?”

“Bicycling on every Wednesday evening Thursday, I go waltzing to the zoo”

Tommy swayed with the steady smoothness, “I like this one, I like it a lot.” Billy’s thigh brushed and planted against Steve’s shoulder as they watched Tommy tap along. The touch sizzled excitingly. 

“I'm in love with my car Got a feel for my automobile Get a grip on my boy-racer rollbar Such a thrill when your radials squeal“

Tommy’s face pinched just a little, nose wrinkled cutely, ”I don’t know about this one. Sounds like a song Billy might appreciate a bit more. WIth Margo and all that.” 

Tommy smiled at Billy and Steve felt something churn in is tummy, “Margo?” he tilted his head back so it rested on Billy’s knee in order to look at him.

Billy sighed and tilted his own head back to take a sip of the beer can he'd been working on, “It’s my car’s name, after my dog when I was a kid.” Steve shifted back so he was facing the stereo again after nodding once. 

“Oh, you're the first one when things turn out bad You know I'll never be lonely You're my only one And I love the things I really love the things that you do“

Tommy immediately smiled at the opening and his foot made its way from nudging him happily to resting in Steve’s lap, “This one is my favorite.”

“Really?” Steve and Billy asked simultaneously. Steve turned his head painfully fast and they stared in mutual shock. They were quick to get over it though and both went back to waiting for Tommy’s decisive nod. His eyes were closed and calm in enjoyment. So, Steve forcefully settled whatever Billy had stirred and did the same, back rested against both boy’s shins comfortably. 

“My sweet lady Though it seems like we wait forever Stay sweet, baby Believe and we've got everything we need“

“That one was...interesting,” Tommy commented.

Billy snorted as Steve smiled, “I’d say.”

“I feel like dancing in the rain Can I have a volunteer? Just keep right on dancing What a damn jolly good idea“

Tommy smiled sweetly through the that one, Steve felt as though he didn’t need to ask why.

“I dreamed I saw on a moonlit stair Spreading his hands on the multitude there A man who cried for a love gone stale And ice cold hearts of charity bare“

“How come they are so short and so long at random? It’s weird,” Tommy leaned forward and grabbed another beer, condensation dripping onto Steve’s bare knee.

“Sometimes things are more difficult to interpret,” Billy answered. Steve leaned a little more into them as he felt his hips settle. 

“Oh, back, hurry back Please bring it back home to me Because you don't know what it means to me Love of my life“

“That was kinda sad,” Billy was the one to say something between the track then. 

Steve agreed, “Yeah, a little.” He felt eyes on his head but gazed instead on the slight glow to the stereo. 

“Take good care of what you've got My father said to me As he puffed his pipe and baby B. He dandled on his knee Don't fool with fools who'll turn away Keep all good company“

Steve felt a leg press firmer into his shoulder and he laid his head on it, above him Billy sighed just above being silent, “How was that one, Tom?”

Tommy didn’t answer for a moment, “I’m not sure. It sounded good.” The feet in Steve’s lap crossed themselves jitteringly. 

“Open your eyes, Look up to the skies and see, I'm just a poor boy, I need no sympathy, Because I'm easy come, easy go, Little high, little low“

“That one was freaky,” Tommy sat forward in awe, “But it was also awesome.” Eventually the last cord divvied out, all of them lazy with alcohol and sleepy with muddled calm that none of them had felt in a while. Although, Steve already was sleep on Billy’s knee. He didn’t get the chance to regret the beer he’d consumed before he was overrun with horrific, viney tunnels and humongous monsters. Screams of people he knew and cared for. Dustin, Nancy, his parents, Johnathon, El, Lucas. But what had him waking up in a bolt, yelping and screaming, was the one’s from Billy and Tommy. The pain those ones harbored, the ones that made Steve tremble too much to bare. 

Heavy hands grasped his shoulders and softer ones held his face when he came to. He closed his mouth and the wailing stopped just as it had reached his ears.

“Steve! Steve- sh, it’s alright, Stevie,” Tommy’s voice filtered in subtly and he thought he heard a breeze from behind. 

“We should get him to bed,” Billy said and the warmth from behind Steve was suddenly gone. He didn’t know what he must of done, was too out of it, but suddenly he was in someone's arms and being coddled.

“It’s okay, Pretty Boy, we’re still here.”

And then they were in a bed, and his room by the looks of the plaid and blue walls. He had two bodies on either side, and while the comfort he felt was something he couldn’t recognize. It was something new and he felt he should feel overwhelmed by all the sudden figures beside him. But instead he felt relieved and willingly open to allow these two boys in with limited hesitation. What a change in events. Truly. 

“Talk to us, Stevie,” Tommy whispered in his ear. 

“Have you heard of Blondie?” he whispered a bit hoarsely. 

“No. Unless that’s Billy.”

“Add that to the list of things Tommy needs to learn about.” He got a slight tickle above his ribs in response from Billy. Steve held in his laugh as best he could but Billy didn’t stop the movement until he finally coughed out a yelp in protest. He tried his best to portray a steady glare in return but it didn’t quite work. “What about The Smiths?”

“Nadda.”

“Tears for Fears?”

“Mmm,” Tommy finally came into clear vision for Steve to see, even in the dark, “Maybe, maybe not.” He was grinning like the dumbass Steve knew he was. And then he was gone.

“Wah-?” he almost whined. Almost. 

“Don’t worry, Stevie,” there was a clicking sound, “I’m just trying to culture you up a bit. Gotta keep you calm so we can actually get so sleep.” He laughed loudly when he seemingly found something. Tree branch arms coiled around Steve’s waist and he couldn’t be bothered to tell Billy off as the warmth radiated into his skin and heart. 

Tommy came back while the Eurythmics, of all people, made some sort of soft noise through the room. And Tommy’s own hands somehow managed to sneak their way past Billy’s and just barely grazed his ass. The blanket bundled them all together and Steve felt as though he finally had the loves of his life in sight. That definite path made for him. Finally and just maybe. 

send me headcannons!<3

[fmufmu]

Boo’d up.

[hi can you please write ash island fluff???]

          You got me boo'd up, boo'd up – you like Yoon Jinyoung. You’re boo’d up.

     A/N: re-upload because im trash and forgot to upload this!

You can’t pinpoint where your feelings started for Jinyoung.

You’re not anything special – you’re nothing more than the waitress girl of your parents’ chicken restaurant and it just happens that Ambition Musik go here frequently that you see Jinyoung. That’s how you meet actually – they pile into the corner of the room and you serve them with shaky hands and a nervous smile. Your eyes meet Jinyoungs and you feel so embarrassed and enchanted at the same time. There’s nothing more to it.

But that’s not the point, the point is that somehow you become friends. Jinyoung paid, tells you that this is the best chicken place, tips heavily and leaves with a fond smile. It becomes frequent and sometimes it’ll be just Jinyoung by himself eating. And the weeks pass, and you find yourself looking forward to seeing Jinyoung. And Jinyoung starts greeting you like you’ve known each other forever.

Suddenly, things change; Jinyoung swings by just to see how you are; Jinyoung offers you lifts back to your apartment that’s on the way to his; suddenly you’re pulled from your own little world to and you’re falling at an alarming rate with no intention of stopping. You don’t know how it came to the point of friendship – how you got his Kakao ID, how you’d find yourself sending him funny pictures –

Somehow, the universe, gifted you something good. Something great, actually.  And you told yourself that you wouldn’t fall for him – guys like Yoon Jinyoung could have any girl they want, so why would he want you? You were average – not good or bad. In the middle, floating somewhere. You read the magazines, see the videos – Jinyoung was popular these days. He speaks about how he doesn’t have time to date, to see girls, to like anyone but it was all talk for the cameras. Someone like that wouldn’t be single, you tell yourself. And they wouldn’t be enamoured with a chicken restaurant waitress.

And it’s one of those nights where you parents let you leave early and as you close the door to the shop. You’re grateful for it, really. Weekends were always the busiest and your joints are aching. As you step outside, you tired eyes focus on the picture in front of you as the door shuts behind you; Jinyoung leaning against his car in an expensive jacket, scrolling through his phone mindlessly.

“Jinyoung-ah.” You say, tiredly, catching his attention. He looks up and meets your eyes and a face splitting grin covers it. Your heart twists uncomfortably at that. “What are you doing here? Are you getting food?” You say. Jinyoung shrugs and steps forward, sliding off his jacket and walking behind you to drape it over your shoulders.

“I was actually going to pick up some food, but I heard your parents telling you to go early so I was thinking I could drop you home.” He’s being nice. That was Jinyoung, he was kind-hearted to those who deserved it. Did you really deserve it? Of course not. You slip your arms into the jacket and you find yourself suddenly feeling shy. Is this what it’s like to wear your boyfriends’ clothes? You can smell his aftershave and shower gel and your stomach tingles.

“Jinyoung, you don’t have to keep doing this.” You say, but Jinyoung is already grabbing your arm and moving you closer to the sleek looking car. He doesn’t even look fazed at your reservations, at this point, it’s like Jinyoung is immune to it. “I can walk you know. Or even take the bus.”

“It’s late, y/n. And it’s freezing. You’re only wearing your work polo. What kind of person would I be if I let you just walk home like this, huh? I’d be a bastard.” Jinyoung counters back, he’s opening the door and you can feel the warmth from where your standing from the leather seats. “You know I don’t mind.” He squeezes your shoulders. Of course, Jinyoung doesn’t mind dropping you home. That’s just Jinyoung. You sigh, climbing into the car. Jinyoung shuts the door promptly and hops into the other side, shutting the door.

“I always feel bad when you drop me.” You say, clicking your seatbelt in. “I do have two legs.”

           “And I have a car.” Jinyoung counters back, teasingly. “Why take a bus when I can drop you. Chauffeur service.” You can’t help but roll your eyes at him. Has Jinyoung always been this dorky and lame? Why was it so cute?

You fiddle with your fingers quietly staring out of the window as he starts the car. What’s with you tonight with all these feelings? Is it because you know you can’t be friends with someone who you have feelings for – especially, someone you know who would never like you back. Jinyoung doesn’t deserve that and more importantly you don’t deserve that. The city blurs into one picture as you stare out of the window.

“You’re quiet tonight, y/n.” Jinyoung comments and you turn to face him. In the darkness of the car, you can make out his side profile – it’s frightening how quickly you’ve fallen for him. You give a half-hearted smile as you turn back to the window, watching how Jinyoung races through the streets. “You okay?” No, you want to say. You’re not because him. It’s not his thought, you think again. It’s your fault. You shouldn’t of caught feelings.

“I’m just tired.” You lie, turning your head back to the road. The car hums quietly underneath you both. You’re so full of life, why couldn’t you speak properly? Why is everything you’re thinking about saying get stuck in your throat? “You know how it is on the weekends.”

“Well, school starts for you soon again, right?” Jinyoung hums. “Less shifts and more time sleeping.” You can hear the grin in his voice. Your lips pull up into a small smile.

“Yeah, that sounds good.” You pull up to a red light. In the corner of your eye, Jinyoung glances at you before looking ahead. He doesn’t say anything for a minute before reaching for his phone and opens it up. You can see how his hand shakes slightly.

“Can I show you something?” Jinyoung asks.  “A song I’ve been working on actually. I just – it’s nothing much but I just thought I’d show you first.” You nod and he plugs in the aux cord. You watch how he taps furiously on his phone before pressing something and the car fills with soft, melodic piano intro fills the car before the hook sinks in and you hear Jinyoungs classic voice. It’s nothing more than vague lyrics about liking someone who’ll never like you back. About wasting your time, your precious time, over someone who’ll never waste their time for you.

You swallow hard because it’s a hard pill to swallow. Unrequited love. Unrequited like. Unrequited everything. You don’t even realise you’ve pulled up outside your apartment complex until Jinyoung touches your arm and you flinch like he’s burnt your skin.

“Sorry,” Jinyoung says with a small laugh. “Did you, uh, like the song, y/n?” You loved the song. You just hated how it made you feel. You hate this swirling pit of anxiety that consumes you when you think about Jinyoung.

“It was really good.” You say. Jinyoung switches on the light in the car. “I just -,” You shake your head, trying find the words to say. You’re touched, firstly, that he’d even consider someone who should listen to his unreleased music.

“– you’re crying, y/n.” Jinyoung says, blinking at you with wide eyes. “Y/n. . .”  His hand reaches out to touch your face but you turn your head quickly, wiping your face to see teardrops on your fingertips. God, no. Not here. You shake your head with an embarrassed laugh. You go to open the handle but Jinyoung catches your arm.

“Y/n, talk to me.” Jinyoung says. “Why – why are you crying?” You’re overwhelmed with emotions. Why are you crying? You’ve known Jinyoung for the last few weeks, you started falling from the go and now –

“I’m sorry.” You quickly say, slipping off Jinyoungs jacket off your body. You need to get home, to be alone and be sad in private. “I just – I’m being stupid and everything.” You lie and Jinyoung stares at you, unbelieving. “It was just a stressful day and -,” More tears leave your eyes. God, you can’t believe you’re crying in front of Jinyoung like this. You let out a loud sob, shaking your head as your cover your face. “I’m really sorry, Jinyoung. You just wanted to drop me home, you don’t need any of my problems and –,”

“ – I like you.” Jinyoung says, interrupting you. “I . . . I like you, y/n. Is that okay? I want to know about your problems, that be okay.” The car goes silent and you let out a sniff, looking up to see Jinyoung looking straight ahead. “I’m not good at this sort of thing, you know? I’m too blunt. I wanted – the song is about you. I wanted write about how I felt about you and I wanted to let you know that I like you.” This . . . you can’t believe this. Because Jinyoung could be with anyone, have any girl – why would he want you. You’re . . . you. “I don’t want to see you cry, y/n. It makes me wanna cry.” Jinyoung rubs his hands over the steering wheel with a nervous laugh and glances at you for a spilt second before looking back at the steering wheel.

Does. . .  does Yoon Jinyoung really have feelings for you? The guy sitting beside you, the famous rapper, really like you? The guy that plays silly songs on the aux when he drops you home, the guy that tips you when he really doesn’t, the guy that has a smile that lights up the entire room?

“Oh.” You say, stupidly. It feels like a puzzle when you think about. Jinyoung wasn’t just being nice . . . he was doing it because he wanted to get to know you more. And you were to oblivious to this. “I . . . I didn’t realise you had feelings for me.”

“I thought it was a little obvious.” Jinyoung says, laughing a little. “I guess maybe it wasn’t.” You’re both silent again. It’s awkward suddenly. Why is it so awkward? “I understand if you don’t feel the same, y/n. And if you don’t want to be friends -,”

“ – what?” You say, head turning quickly. “Why wouldn’t I want to be friends with you, Jinyoung?” You wipe the tears off your face properly. “What if . . . what if I liked you back?”

“Then . . .” Jinyoung taps his fingers against the steering wheel. “Then I’d take you out.” He says finally. “Somewhere nice.”

“Somewhere nice.” You echo, biting your lip. “That sounds nice, actually. I’d really like that, Jinyoung.”

[tellywoodtrash]

immj2 25.11.20 lb

new day, new title card.

dadi and angre gotta be dumb as rocks to see her sitting here like this and think she actually wants any part of what’s happening.

UNF YAAAAAAAAAAAS BABY WORK THE F OUTTA THAT BOD SHOW ME THOSE GUNSSSSSSSSSS MMHMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

he’s thinking out loud about how the amount he asked for it waaaaay too much, but riddhima is a deadly combination of intelligence and beauty or some shit and honestly, boy.....

just stop talking and do more pushups, you himbo.

mmmmm yessss.

this fucker really asking for it haan.

mummy looks really pretty today. they should always style her hair like this.

anyway just the usual dhamkis of main tumhari saas banne waali hoon, saans lena mushkil kardoongi, welcome to hell, etc. etc.

oh i like ishani’s sari. also are they giving her denim jackets to subconsciously twin her with vihaan???

lmao angre having a freakout thinking she’s gonna consume the poison. he doesn’t know her at alllllllllllll, does he?

“yeh poison riddhima ke liye hai. main jaane dene waalon mein se nahi, LENE waalon mein se hoon.” LMAO YAAAAAAAAAS GIRLLLLLLLLLLLL

lmaooooooooooo she stormed off saying she’s gonna give it to riddhima no matter what. i honestly love her.

dang ishani works fast.

at first i was kinda surprised to see him so worried about riddhima; then he started yelling about how she can’t ruin his plan like this and yup...... sounds about right.

askldslkdjslkjdaslkjdlsakjdlkasjdlaskjdlaskjdlaskj RIDDHIMA SOMETIMES, JUST SOME TIMES, I LOVE YOUR PETTY ASSSSSSSSSSSSSS

lmaoooooooooooooo behen ne wholesale mein mangaa rakha hai zeher ki sheeshiyaan.

9 pm ka shubh muhurat has been given. aa jaana laash dekhne, it seems.

lmao kabir you dumbass, what is the point of brandishing a gun at someone who’s threatening to kill themselves???

she’s like kar hi kya loge? you’ll kill dadi or ishani and the baby. once i’m dead why the fuck would that matter to me?????? my death = none of these relationships exist anymore.

the face of a dude who has no leverage left anymore.

she’s like being married to you would be the worst punishment ever, and i would rather embrace the sweet release of death instead. Big Mood, sis.

and then i’ll meet vansh. and we’ll have hot ghost sex in the sky. istg that’s legit what she said. (“wahaan aasmaan mein humaara milan hoga.”)

ugh manhandling pe utar aaya hai. kabir you’re asking to be curb stomped. i hope ishani does it to you reallllllll soon.

she’s like fine ok i’ll marry you but i have a condition.

lmao there’s the face i watch his character forrrrrrrrrrr. i loveeeeeeee when he gets frustrated!!!!!

wipe alllllllll of vansh’s police records. destroy every single bit of proof you have against him. in one hour.

and i should do this, why???????

coz.....................

lmaooooooooooooo. honestly, i love how she’s just pulling them out from anywhere and everywhere. she should do a magic trick and pull one out from behind his ear next.

reminds him some more of how she won’t die alone, she’ll take his dreams of having all this with her.

he’s gotta be stupid as fuckkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkk to do what she says. that too without making copies and shit. so so so fucking stupid.

ishani is still here, just yelling about poisoning riddhima, while udhar usne ek rehearsal bhi kar liya aur live event ka invitation bhi de diya chief guest ko.

angre’s like calm tf down, b. i’m mad af too rn, but how is killing her gonna solve anything?

he says we’ve lost 1.5 people already. we don’t want one more dead body on our hands. we have to think carefully to figure out this big game. itna dimaag hai tum mein angre, toh why the fuck can’t you see riddhima is clearly being forced into it???? you don’t even bother to go have a convo with her about it??????

“hum vansh bhai ko nyaay dilaakar hi rahenge.” how, exactly?????? coz right now, as far and ishani (and i) can see, you’re not doing shitttttttt around here, other than glaring at everyone.

bhai waaaaaaah. jo vansh bhai jeete-jee nahi kar sake, mar ke kar gaye. good for them. i’m cautiously excited for their team up.

HOW DOES SHE KNOW THAT THIS IS EVERYTHING HE HAS????? HOW DOES SHE KNOW HE DOESN’T HAVE COPIES?!!? THERE’S LITERALLY NO WAY OF CONFIRMING IT!!!!!!!

he’s like vansh is dead anyway, so what’s the point of this????

she’s like his aatma will get shaanti. sure. coz he seems like the kinda dude who’ll be very very chill in the afterlife. sitting up there playing harps, he is.

the amounttttttt of confidence he has that vansh will never come back when they didn’t even find a body! THEY DIDN’T EVEN FIND THE ONE THAT VIHAAN CREMATED TO KINDA POINT TO IT AND BE LIKE OK WE GOT PROOF THAT HE’S DEAD. HOW THE HELL IS HE SOOOOOO BLOODY SURE!?!!?!

again, i don’t get HER confidence that this is all the proof and that vansh’s record has been wiped clean and his name has been cleared. first off, kabir’s a inspector or something; i’m pretty sure he didn’t even have the power to expunge records like that. and that was before he went rogue and got suspended. SECOND, BITCH, WHO DOESN’T KEEP COPIES OF LITERALLY EVERYTHING IN THE CLOUD THESE DAYS???????? anyway, whatever, let her enjoy this khushfehmi for tonight, i guess.

this manhoos ghadi she gave him. the nishaani of all the doom and gloom.

ooooooooooooh i get BOTH my hotties working out and all sweaty in this ep. OH HAPPY DAY!

mommy’s turn to be complacent and take riddhima too easy. these fuckers will never learn. 

shit i think i put nazar on his skin yest. he’s breaking out. or it might be the stress of marrying riddhima. ask the previous one, how much of a headache she was on an hourly basis. why would you willingly do this to yourself, pal????????

meanwhile this chick has broken some FD or some shit and arranged 50L in 24 hours, to go get her own husband to come into his own damn house and act like himself. such a fucking ghaate ka sauda. mature hone deti FD ko, toh inn saare manhooson ko peeche chod ke nayi zindagi shuru kar sakti thi. *sigh* whatever sis, your loss.

[thisissirius]

ride eddie/buck, vermont verse, dirty talk

for @hearteyesforbuck as always :)

Buck doesn’t know what to expect when they go out for drinks. 

It’s not the first time they’ve been out, but usually Eddie’s careful with alcohol. He’s not a big drinker, but for some reason, he’s decided tonight’s the night he’s going to celebrate getting a couple of kids off the mountain in their first rescue is the best time to start. 

They’re in Burlington—Bobby’s playing sober cab—and Eddie’s wandering between the tables, trying to talk to Chim and navigate the carrying of glasses at the same time. 

“You’ll burn a hole into him if you keep staring like that.”

Buck snorts, gives Hen a winning smile. “It’s not my fault he looks so good in those jeans. His ass—”

“Please,” Karen says, miming throwing up. 

It’s not a lie; Eddie knows exactly what he’s doing. They’re his tightest jeans, showing off the curve of his ass, hiding nothing. Buck’s seen Eddie get hard in those jeans. 

Abort, he thinks. Not the time. 

Except then Eddie starts drinking. 

Tipsy Eddie isn’t any different from normal. Okay, not much different. He smiles easily, touches everyone, and laughs loudly. Buck’s more than a little in love with him anyway, but the easy affection Eddie’s displaying is—Buck loves him. 

“You alright?” Buck asks, leaning in for a kiss. They’re alone at the table; Bobby and Athena are slow dancing, Hen and Chim are having an argument, and Karen’s currently debating the merits of law with a beermat. 

“Yep,” eddie says, dragging out the word. He accepts the kiss, then pulls back, eyes bright. “I’m gonna go dance.”

Wait. What?

Not that Eddie doesn’t dance, because he does. In the privacy of their home. Buck kinda wishes he’d keep it there when he sees the moves Eddie’s busting out. 

“Dad dancing,” Athena says, amused. “Who could have guessed?”

“He’s usually better than this,” Buck admits. 

“Ply him with drinks,” Chim suggests. 

-

Buck is gonna kill Chim. 

Buck’s certain moving to Vermont is the best thing to ever happen to him, but nothing tops the way Eddie’s looking at him right now. After four drinks and a shot or two, Eddie’s plastered against Buck’s side, biting at his jaw. Buck knows people are watching them, and he bites back on saying anything as he grabs for one of Eddie’s wandering hands. 

“Eddie,” he sighs. 

“Your eyes are amazing up close,” Eddie says, his words slurring slightly. He’s got a dopey smile on his face and it’s close to the one he wears—nope. Not thinking that. “Also your hands. Wanna touch me?”

“Eddie,” Buck says again. 

Hen’s smothering a smile behind her hand, but Buck doesn’t know if that’s because of Eddie, or because she’s starting to feel the alcohol herself. 

Buck’s surprisingly sober. 

“You should straddle me,” Eddie says, like he’s suggesting they go out to dinner. “Come on me.”

Chim almost spits out half his drink, and Bobby raises his eyebrows. Buck’s barely paying them any attention; he’s staring at Eddie, who’s unrepentant with kissing and sucking at Buck’s jaw like he hasn’t just— 

Eddie drops his eyes to Buck’s lap, presses the heel of his hand to Buck’s dick. Buck can’t help it; he lets out a rush of breath, hips hitching a little against Eddie’s hand. “I wanna ride you.”

“Please take him home,” Bobby says, sounding aggrieved. 

“This is gold,” Chim mutters, digging through his pocket. 

If he’s going for his phone, Buck’s definitely taking Eddie home. 

“So let’s go,” Buck says, because Chim deserves it. Three jobs he’s palmed off on Buck this week alone, which means less time with Eddie—and Chris. Best not to think about him right now. Shaking his head, Buck gets a hand on Eddie’s waist. “Up.”

“Something is,” Eddie agrees, standing and stepping closer, grinding his hips against Buck’s thigh. “Fuck.”

Making a strangled noise, Buck buries his face in Eddie’s hair, trying to get a handle on his emotions. Fuck. 

“Please,” Eddie says, whining. It’s the way he says it, the tone, and when Buck looks, he’s not surprised to see the smile on Eddie’s face. The fucker knows exactly what he’s doing, even drunk. “Wanna get your dick in me.”

Bobby curses under his breath, and Buck gives him an apologetic wave as he pushes Eddie towards the door. Eddie won’t let go of him, hands wandering, one sliding down the back of Buck’s pants. 

“We don’t have a ride,” Buck whines, Eddie’s mouth hot against his neck. 

“Walk,” Eddie says, nose pressed to Buck’s jaw. 

It’s hard to think but Buck knows they can’t do that; “I need to call a cab.”

“Mmno,” Eddie says, mouth moving up to bite at the lobe of Buck’s ear. His voice is low when he continues, “fuck me here.”

It’s tempting; since Eddie’s opened the door on the sex thing, Buck can’t stop thinking about it. Wakes up half-hard from dreams, watches Eddie walk around in tight clothes, imagines Eddie pressing against him. 

Not that he’s gotta imagine it now. 

“Maybe,” Buck says, regaining some of his footing when he sees the need in Eddie’s eyes. Time to throw the torture back. “But,” he continues, shifting his feet to press Eddie against the wall. They’re right outside the bar, people walking by, but Buck doesn’t care—and Eddie doesn’t seem to either. His eyes are blown wide, mouth parted gently, lips red and wet. He’s every fantasy Buck’s ever had, every real fuck, rolled up into one amazing person. Buck loves him so much it hurts, and he wants him. He leans in, mouth ghosting over Eddie’s. “Only when you’re sober.”

The whine Eddie lets out is perfect. 

-

“Fuck,” Eddie groans. 

Buck smirks into Eddie’s hair, hand rubbing over his shoulders, down his back. “Morning.”

“Fuck off,” Eddie grumbles, burying his face in Buck’s neck. It’s reminiscent of the night before, and Buck keeps grinning. “Stop looking like that.”

“You have no idea what I’m doing,” Buck protests, ignoring the half-hearted glare Eddie gives him when he pulls back. “Hangover, huh?”

Eddie groans, dropping his head onto Buck’s shoulder. “I’m never drinking again.”

Buck snorts, kisses the top of Eddie’s head. “I think Chim’ll try and get you drunk from now till the end of the time if only to catch you on camera.”

“Never happen,” Eddie mumbles. Buck waits for the inevitable freakout. He’s surprised when it doesn’t come; Eddie goes back to dozing, fingers dancing over Buck’s abs. Eddie’s usually so conservative with their private life, though he has no qualms about telling everyone who’ll listen that he loves Buck. It warms Buck on the best of days, but right now, it makes him want to—

Rolling them over, Buck frames Eddie’s head with his forearms, leaning down enough to touch their noses together. Eddie closes his eyes, hand resting on the back of Buck’s neck. 

“I love you,” Buck whispers. 

Eddie’s lips curve into a smile and Buck kisses him, drawing out the noises Eddie starts to make. “I love you too.”

“You said,” Buck starts, kissing his way down Eddie’s jaw, his collarbone. Eddie tips his head back, further into the pillow, and scratches his nails lightly against Buck’s shoulders. “That you wanted to ride me.”

Hips rolling up against Buck’s, Eddie licks at his bottom lip, working it between his teeth. “I did.”

“Well,” Buck continues, fingers resting against Eddie’s hipbone, “maybe we’ll end with that.”  

[elysiashelby]

In Another World - T. Shelby Imagine Ch. 3

Paring: (Eventual) Thomas Shelby x Aliena Welsh (OC)

Fandom: Peaky Blinders

Word Count: 4,010

WARNINGS: Cursing, Attempted R*pe scene, Deliberate Intoxication of a Character 

Summary: Aliena Welsh has been living in the universe of the show Peaky Blinders for 6 months now. She has proper pay and she thinks she regained some normalcy in another world. However, trouble has struck the Shelby’s and Thomas has plans for her. Will she remain safe as he’s promised her?

MASTERLIST  CHAPTER TWO  CHAPTER 3.2

A/N: So, I forgot to add something very important. I am not from Liverpool. I do not know the proper way scousers talk. I’ve done some research and watched movies, but I will not advocate that it’s perfect. If y’all want it gone, it will be gone. PAY ATTENTION TO THE WARNINGS!!

It's been six months. I'm kind of an official part of the Shelby family. People part the streets for me and greet me. I'm paid two pounds, but John gives me a couple shillings whenever I go home for the day. I have no clue how much I make. I don’t exactly have enough time in me day to count up all me savings right now. I’m being led by the reins like a horse. 

I have a little routine now and what can I say? It gives me peace! Sometimes- I have to admit, there'll be nights where I had cried about not being with me own family. However, it's not like I have the mental capacity to try and change my current situation, so I'm rolling with the punches. 

I was folding clothes in the living room when Thomas bursted through the doors. 

"I'm calling a family meeting for tonight, 8." Thomas said and then pointed at me. "Aliena, be there. Okay? Okay." Then, he walked right back out. From the distant slam of a door, I knew he had gone into his office. 

I looked to Polly who was already staring at me. 

"That fucking boy! Do you know what's goin' on, Ali?"

I shook me head, furiously. 

She just sighed and said. "I guess we're finding out tonight. Finish folding, love, then come help me with dinner."

"Okay, Pol."

As I was folding, all I could focus on was me anticipation. I wanted time to move faster.

I knew the information wasn't about me lies. If he had wanted to confront me about that he would have done it privately or only in the audience of Polly. It wasn't 1919 meaning that season one hasn't begun yet. So, maybe it has something to do about Thomas fixing races? No, that's right! He didn't tell anyone about it! Wonder what it's gonna be then?

Eight rolled around and the family was waiting for Thomas to start. I was over by the doors blocking Finn from geggin' in. 

"Right, I called this family meeting because we got a problem. This problem's name is Harry Chadwick. He's been seen following us and our men around. It would seem that he's a new small time copper looking to make a promotion. Now, some of you are wondering why I invited Aliena to this meeting and I'll get to that in a second. I am going to meet with Chadwick in 3 days time." 

Roars of outrage poured from the family. 

"I am going to meet with him! I told him that I got information on Billy Kimber, and that I'm willing to do a stitch on him in exchange to keep quiet about our doings. I've discovered that Mr. Chadwick frequents Mr. Zhang's brothel whenever he gets tired of spying on the lot of us. Mr. Zhang told me that he preferred his… women on the younger side." Thomas looked at me and I instantly knew his plan. 

I swallowed harshly before looking back down at me feet. A million thoughts went into me head. 

‘Was this a test? Is this me proving me loyalty? What if I go through with it, and he doesn't stop him in time? Why would he do this to me?’

"Like hell, Thomas! She's just a girl!" Polly yelled while gesturing toward me. 

Thomas nodded in response. "Yes, Polly. She's a girl, who'll catch that bastard's attention! Now, if you'd let me finish! I was gonna tell you that I plan on killing 'em. She'll just be a distraction, and I'll let no harm come to her." The look in his eyes was intense. It was almost like he was trying to telepathically reassure me. 

‘This is a test. This is a test about loyalty, I just know it is.’

Polly and Thomas started arguing while I debated over it. 

I sighed. "I'll do it."

They stopped fighting. 

"What?" Polly asked, looking at me with disbelief written in her face. 

"I'll do it." I repeated with a clearer voice and me head held high. Thomas and I stared at each other until he gave me a nod. 

"There you have it, Pol. She made her choice. She's a big girl." 

Polly scoffed and began fighting with him again. I listen to John bud in and then Arthur shortly. I heard them, but it was like white noise. I was breathing quicker. But just as soon as I was consciously aware of the fact, I held me breath for a while and relaxed meself. The way me brain worked would never let meself freak out in me entirety. I've never experienced a complete panic attack. I always had the strength to snap meself out of it. That didn't mean that the effects went away any quicker. In fact, I knew this feeling of dread would follow me until we were actually enacting his plan.  

I let meself out without, being like, allowed to. That night I didn't sleep. I just pondered over the grim possibilities that could occur three nights from now. 

It was finally the day, and I am terrified. I was allowed to sleep in. I woke up around 10 in the morning. I ate breakfast and lunch that wasn't made by me, and then Polly told me that she had prepared a bath. I was to scrub meself spotless and shave. 

As if I was really a prostitute. 

On the flip side, this body of mine didn't have your common body hair. I had no hair on me body except for me private part, me eyebrows, and well- me hair. See I hated having body hair with a passion, so it was nice having smooth legs with no stubble. 

Polly kept talking to me as if I were a child. She kept reassuring me that Thomas would never let anything happen to me. It was nice to see her worrying about me as if I were her daughter. Some days it really felt like that. After the bath, I was dressed in garments that were really rather in its best condition. It seemed like silk. I put it on with no protest. Polly even tried helping me with that. Then she went on to do me hair. It was beautiful, really. She put me hair in a bun with a single braid. Me hair framed me face just how I liked it.

She did me makeup next. I wanted to stop her, but I didn't have the heart to. I looked in the mirror and admired her work. The foundation didn't match me skin tone. It made me appear whiter than I was. But this was how women did it in this era, and I thought I still looked pretty. I smiled at meself even though I wished we were doing this under better circumstances. 

Finally, the dress. It was a dark, maybe, navy blue. It's sleeves reached to me elbows, and it was a rather loose dress. I'm so used to wearing tighter one's than this one, feels like a sleeping gown.

"You look absolutely beautiful. Oh, look at you! Just like a dream." Polly said with her hands together in a prayer against her lips.

She rushed to me and rubbed me arms up and down. "Tommy won't let anything happen to you, Aliena. After this, I'll make sure you'll never be in this side of the business again. You'll just be taking care of the kids and doing the chores again, I promise! No more Peaky Blinder business." 

I nodded. "Okay, Polly." I put on a grin while smoothing out the dress. 

I was only allowed a few moments to meself before Thomas shouted for me. 

"We better get down there then. Quicker we get it down, the sooner you both come home." She said as she pulled the door open and led me down.

As we were doing down the stairs, the three Shelby brothers were talking at the bottom of it. Upon hearing our heels, their gazes snapped on me. I noticed Thomas was wearing his usual suits, nothing out of the ordinary. 

"Ain't she a sight!" Arthur yelled. 

"Ali, you look absolutely beautiful. I think I'm fallin' in love!" John yelled. 

I scoffed and shook me head. "Thank you, Arthur. And John, shut your trap." I was able to slap him across the chest. 

He flinched, quite dramatically, while snickering. But then this hush of silence washed over us, and it was like we were all waiting for what Thomas had to say. 

Thomas cleared his throat and muttered. "Come on, then." He extended his elbow for me and I took it. 

We said our goodbyes then left. It was weird being in the passenger side of a car in the UK. American cars were different. I'm so used to being on the opposite side. As he drove, I took in the views. I loved car rides so much! God, I missed this. 

"I'm sure you already know this, but I know you're lying to us." Thomas said while taking a drag. "You don't have a birth certificate, no record of any sort. I couldn't even find your father's war record. So, even though you are a hard worker, you've lied to us. After this… If you do it well and complete what needs to be done, I'll let your lies slip and accept you into this family."

Me heart was beating in my ears. Me face was hot. "Okay, Thomas." I whispered. After that, it was quiet for a while. 

Then, Thomas broke it. "So, do you, maybe, want to tell me the truth?"

I scoffed, looking out the window. Even though there really wasn’t one. "You wouldn't even believe me." 

I didn’t know what to say. I didn’t fully anticipate him investigating me. I just thought it would be normal for a girl to show up with no papers. I was caught in a blag and like a brat, I wanted this conversation to be done with.

"Try me."

I don't know if I could contain my annoyance. 

How the fuck could I explain it to him when I didn't understand this situation much meself! If I did tell him the truth, I figure he'll get me thrown in an asylum. 

I went to massage me eyes, but then remembered that they had makeup on ‘em, so I slapped me hands on me thighs. 

"Well, I'm not from here. At all! I'm from another universe or Earth. To me, you and your family are characters on a TV show called Peaky Blinders. Do you believe me?" I revealed to him while staring out the window. I couldn’t bear to face him.

He didn't answer for a good solid 5 minutes. "Well, it has to be that. Or, you lied about your dad being in the war and your family avoided records with home births. That you're Gypsy kin ‘cause there have been too many times that you have looked like you know something I don't, and being a Gypsy would explain that. So, yeah, I believe you." 

I pursed me lips while leaning my head on me fist as I leaned my arm on the window. 

'He doesn't believe me. A blessing in disguise.'

"Yep, you got me. So why don't you tell me what we're really going to this bloke's house for? I know it's not for the bullshit you spat at the meeting." 

Thomas squinted his eyes at me. "How did you know I lied?"

I rolled me eyes. "Since Billy Kimber came out your mouth. What does Mr. Chadwick have to do with you planning to fix races?"

I turned me head to him and stared. His head was down, eyes on the floor of the car. His eyes darting back and forth rapidly. His Adam's apple bobbed and he said, "He's got something I need to actually fix those races. He's not a cop. But he does want information on Kimber and I'm going to feed him false information. Not like he'll be able to check, though."

While gazing at me fingernails, I hummed. "Thank you for your candor, Thomas."

After that, we didn't talk. When we pulled up to the house, he got out and then walked over to my side. I took his arm like before and we walked to the door. It wasn't a mansion, but it was a nice house. A maid opened the door and told us that we had been expected. We were led to a room that must have been the lounge area. There was a bar at the far right side and a pool table in the middle, but the room was still small. 

"Ah, Mr. Shelby! So, good to see you!" Mr. Chadwick had to be the most stereotypical pedophile I've ever seen. 

Mentally, I was giving meself a prayer and hoping that my discomfort was not showing on me face.  

Thomas greeted him back. They shook hands and that's when creepy decided to lock eyes on me. 

"Why, Mr. Shelby! Who is this enchanting young lady?" I watched as his hand slipped from Thomas' hand and reached for mine. 

I reluctantly gave him me hand to shake when he clasped both of his hands over mine and started to stroke it. I could feel the muscles in me face ache, so I knew I was still smiling. 

"This is Ali. She works for me Aunt." Thomas replied. 

Mr. Chadwick greeted me, but it's like I knew that he was trying to make it sound sensual. I wanted to die! I just gave him one back and he finally dropped me hand. 

"Well, enough with the pleasantries! Let's negotiate." Mr. Chadwick said as he walked over to his desk. 

We all gathered around the desk when Mr. Chadwick offered drinks. Thomas and I both declined and sat down. After that, they dove straight into business talk. As much as it hurts me pride, I couldn't follow what they were saying. So all I did was pretend to be engaged. I smiled whenever his eyes lined up to mine. I tilted me head to the side to, I guess, show off me neck. Other times, I raised me chest and used other cues to get his attention towards my tits. 

"You know what, Mr. Shelby, the agreement was set upon me getting rid of the information I have on your family. But not on yourself. How about you let me have her and we call it a deal?" Mr. Chadwick said while looking me up and down like I was fucking scran!

Thomas cleared his throat saying, "You're goin' to have to be more specific. I can't let you have her forever. She's my Aunt's employee. So, the most I could offer is an hour."

Mr. Chadwick scoffed. "The rest of the night."

"45 minutes." 

"3 hours."

"1 hour."

"Hour and a half." 

"Deal." 

They rose and shook hands. I wanted to show me disgust. I felt absolutely nauseated. I just felt this pit in me stomach grow more and more. 

Thomas placed his hand on me shoulder and I looked up at him. He nodded and said. "I'll be out in the hall."

"You can have my maid entertain you, Mr. Shelby!" 

Thomas had already walked out of the room. I huffed. Me gaze went to the bar. 

"Do you fancy a drink, Ali?" He asked me. 

I got up from me chair. I was shaking. I just knew I had to look like Bambi when he was learning how to walk. "I could go for something. A glass of water would be fine." I said while tucking a strand of me hair behind me ear. 

Mr. Chadwick laughed as he walked over to his bar. "I think you're gonna want something stronger than water, dear. Ever try gin?"

I shook me head. "No. No, I haven't. Water's just fine." I slowly walked closer to him. He was behind the bar as he poured the drinks. But he managed to quickly stride toward me. He handed me me drink and I took a gulp of it. The cold water was refreshing, but I couldn't help but notice he was staring at me while I drank the water. 

I wanted to furrow me eyebrows at him, but instead I gave him a smile. 

"So, how old are you, Ali?"

"16."

"Your accent, you're a scouser, aren’t cha?"

"Yes, sir, born and raised."

He hummed after that. I just awkwardly held the glass in me hand while shifting from one foot to the other. 

"How did you meet, Mr. Shelby?"

"Uh, I was looking for a job and one of his brother's kids were out playing on the street. I managed to keep… him calm enough to get him… home. Apparently…, that was like… a miracle and… I was offered… a job. " I was feeling dizzy and it was getting harder to breathe. 

I held me hand up while I pressed the hand holding de’ water against me chest. The glass was colder than I thought. " 'm… sorry. I… really need… to get some… air!" I went to turn away from ‘em when he grabbed me and pulled me to him. 

I gasped for breath. I whimpered as he placed his forehead on mine. 

He whispered. "God, you're so cute. Look how short you are and those tits. You've been wanting me all night. Don't try to deny it, you little minx. I bet you're all wet and ready for me." He started to nip and kiss me neck which made me flinch. 

'I can't breathe. I can't breathe!' 

Me legs soon gave out and he rushed us to the pool table. The pain the shot through me back as the table dug into me hips made me wince. He lifted me up ‘n sat me down on it, and me body fell limply on the table. The glass of water slipped out of me hand, but it didn’t fall since it didn’t make a sound. 

I limply attempted hitting him, kicking him! They were weak hits. They barely did anything to him. I knew they were annoying him, though. 

I kept trying to scream at the top of me lungs, but all that came out were hoarse whispers. I knew this feeling, familiar with it and I still hated it. 

He stopped fiddling with his belt, grabbed me arms, pinned them down. "Stay fucking still!" 

He kept me hands pinned and me head lopped to the side. Me gaze was on the doors from where Thomas and I entered. Me vision was getting blurrier with me tears. I took a deep loud breath and choked on a sob. I heard his belt fall to the ground. 

"Tommy." I chanted. I kept saying his name. I felt him start to shimmy up me dress 'til I felt all of me legs exposed. Me heart was beating faster than ever. Something just clicked as I screamed, "Tommy!" 

And like a fucking hero, he bursted through the doors and shot the bastard. The guy groaned as he fell to the ground, and a second shot rang throughout the room. 

I stopped crying, but realized I really was paralyzed since I couldn’t pick meself back up. Me adrenaline was going down, and I just wanted to go to sleep. I heard Tommy’s thundering footsteps as he ran to me. I felt as he tugged down me dress, and then picked up me torso by me armpits. He stroked me face. I thought it was a caring touch, but realized he was probably wiping the tears. 

"I'm sorry. I'm sorry that I was late, Aliena." Thomas whispered. His face was red and his jaw clenched.

I tried to tell him, "Nothing happened yet. So you weren't late." It fell on deaf ears.

He shook his head. "I was late…" He tugged me a little forward and then carried me bridal-style. 

I heard a faint crunch that was familiar to glass. 

'Huh! Maybe it was the glass falling that actually alerteded him and not my supposed shout.'

As we walked out, I saw the maid dead on the floor as well as a butler that was near the front door. He carried me to the passenger seat and laid me down then left. I was really fucking uncomfortable, but I still wanted to go to sleep. I let me eyelids flutter shut. 

"Oi, Aliena! Aliena, wake up! Wake up." Thomas shouted at me while tapping my face. 

I whimpered loudly but opened me eyes nonetheless. 

"Attagirl! Good girl, Aliena. Now, we're going home. Okay?" Tommy wrapped his free arm around me shoulder and me face was tucked into his side. His touch was comforting. His slow strokes on me back reminded me of me ma’. This made me start crying again to the point where I was sobbing uncontrollably. 

"Almost there, Ali. You're alright now. Fuck!" Our bodies jolted as Tommy struck the steering wheel. 

The cold night wind was refreshing. I tried focusing on that. I wanted to just curl up, sleep, and be able to get over it tomorrow. I'll get over it tomorrow. 

I wanted to enjoy this moment as I snuggled up to Thomas Shelby, but I couldn't! 

I always wanted to know what his cologne smells like and now I still wouldn’t know since my nose is stuffy ‘n runny.

Me sobs turned into sniffles and it took sometime before we actually made it back to the house. It was a series of Tommy keeping me awake and me crying about it. 

Tommy carried me out of the car and ran up to the door. He started pounding on it 'til Pol opened the door. 

She gasped and shouted. "What-!"

Tommy didn't let her finish. He rushed past her and sat me down on the couch. Me body was still limp, so me head fell back and me arms slumped to me sides. 

"What the hell, Thomas! You said nothing would happen!"

"There were more people in his house than I thought and got held up. He didn't manage to do anything to her yet, but he drugged her." 

"Fucking christ! Make sure she doesn't fuckin’ fall asleep! She needs to drink water."

Polly's last comment got to me. It reminded me of me ma’ getting me milk when I was too high. I started to chuckle and tried asking them for milk. Tommy leaned his ear close to me mouth and then shouted for milk instead. I was still laughing, but it came out breathily. 

I could hear Polly yell for Arthur and I tried following her voice but that meant turning my head. Which made me close me eyes. Tommy tugged me face where it originally was and ordered me to stay awake. I attempted to stick me tongue out at him. 

Aunt Polly came back. She put a wet cold towel on me head and put the straw in me mouth. I instantly started drinking it. 

"Slowly, love." Polly whispered as she started to wipe me face and neck with the towel. "Slowly, love."

When I was done having a drink, I tried lifting up me arms and it happened very slowly. I slowly pushed the cup away from me. I didn't really realize that it was Tommy holding it. 

"I don't blame you." I tried saying. 

Polly sucked on her teeth. "Her fucking speech is slurred." By the end of her sentence, her voice was shaking. They fretted over me for a while until Polly said that she was going to have me be in warm water. 

Thomas and Arthur helped me up the stairs. In the end, Polly was the only one in my room. She undressed me and helped me into the water. I could honestly say the water woke me up!

When I got most of me motor functions back, Polly got me out, helped me get dressed, tucked me into bed, and I fell asleep.

TAG LIST: @amirahiddleston​ @nemesis729​

[lonelypond]

Parent Trap, Ch. 9

NicoMaki, NozoEli, Love Live, 2.6K 9/?

Summary: Maki is on a mission; Nico is on the job.

Car Culture

Dia was crying. Maki groaned. Why wasn’t Raye...oh, no Raye. With a curse, Maki kicked off her blanket, catapulted out of bed, grabbing a robe to throw on, feet awkwardly groping for slippers. A message blinking on her muted phone. Nico. At 5 a.m.

N: Hope you and Dia have a good day. Nico’s going to be so busy ε= ٩(●❛ö❛)۶

N: But Maki will be so impressed when Nico’s video’s done.

No kiss emoji, no hearts, no...Nico-ness...a wail from Dia. Maki had no time to mope. Or make up. She had a growing, growling, grumpy daughter demanding all her attention.

###

“Maki, calm down.” Rin leaned back against the arm of her couch, sending her calmest mood at Maki.

“It’s been two and a half days, Rin. Dia doesn’t want to eat anything, keeps asking for Nico, who’s too busy to answer her damn phone, and I CAN’T TAKE ANY MORE LILO AND STITCH.”

Rin could see Maki pacing, kicking the rug that was at the center of the cabin’s main room. Dia was probably napping, like Tora. Maki needed to nap more. “Calm down, Maki. I’ll drive up there. Why are you in Wisconsin anyway? Where’s Raye?”

“Can you watch Dia?” Maki had no volume control. Rin grimaced, rubbing her ear.

“Is that Maki?” Hanayo stuck her head in, “Can you ask her what Nico’s new…”

Rin made a slashing gesture to head off Hanayo’s question. Hanayo pouted. Rin walked to the door, gently pushed Hanayo one step away, and closed the door.

“Maki, are you all right to drive?”

“Of course, I’m all right to drive.”

“But you sound so angry.”

“You’ve known me for more than a decade, Rin. When has anger interfered with anything?”

Rin could check off a huge list of times. But that would not calm Maki down. “So you’re going to see Nico?”

“Yeah, there’s this huge party we got invited to. ” Maki was now moderating her volume.

But Maki’s declaration had kicked Rin into red zone worried mode. “You’re going to a huge party. Because of Nico. Do you know anyone else who’ll be there?”

“Honoka will be there.”

Rin blinked. Maki and Honoka parties were a legendary recipe for disaster. Honoka’s impulsiveness brought out Maki’s idgaf core principle. Mix in alcohol and...

“I just want to talk to someone taller than my knee, Rin.” Maki sounded desperate.

“We’re talking. I’m taller than your knee.” Rin fell back on the couch. This was bad.

Maki’s voice softened. “Please, just watch Dia for me for a couple of days. She really misses Tora.”

“So you’re meeting Nico there?” That wouldn’t be so bad.

“Probably, sure, I don’t know the exact details yet.”

“I’m worried about you, Maki, you sound really upset. And you and Honoka and parties...”

Maki didn’t let Rin go drag out her history. “Rin, just please…”

“What?”

“Take care of my daughter.” Maki was tapping on something, probably unconsciously, Rin could hear the vibrations. “Nico’s upset because my parents sent me to Wisconsin, Nico likes parties, I REALLY miss Nico and…” Maki sounded nervous, Rin knew how reluctant her friend was to discuss anything related to dating and sex, “that disconnect is starting to happen.”

“So meet Nico somewhere and…”

“Rin, I am driving to Chicago, I am changing into a sexy dress, I am going to a party, I am going to down a couple of shots of something, and I am going home with my girlfriend.”

Rin sighed, “We’ll talk when you get here. Just please drive carefully. For me. And Dia.”

“Of course, I will.” Maki exhaled, “Thanks, Rin.”

“I’m your bestie, Maki.”

Maki laughed, “See you soon.”

Rin hoped five hours driving would wear Maki out enough to be reasoned with.

###

Nico couldn’t slump yet. Fourteen hours on the set, the crew were getting ready for the big stunt, Cocoro was confirming the details of something with the director, and Umi was handing Nico a bottle of electrolyte solution, a bright enough green to wake Nico up.

“Start with that.” Umi frowned, “You don’t want to get sick.”

“Thanks, Umi.”

“When does your tour start?”

“Too soon,” Nico swallowed a cough.

“It is essential to allow yourself a chance to recover physically from the kind of exertion you are experiencing.”

“You’re not my doctor.”

“I’m sure Maki would say the same.”

“She’s not my doctor either. She doesn’t know anything about this kind of day.” Nico chugged the entire bottle.

Umi seemed genuinely puzzled. “If you don’t talk about your work, what do you talk about?”

“Nico doesn’t remember, it’s just kind of a tired sexy blur. Maki’s surprisingly....”

Umi didn’t have to frown. Her entire posture screamed displeasure at Nico’s cavalier comment.

“Sorry. Nico just misses Maki.” Nico tossed the bottle into the recycling barrel, “We’ve been talking about our pasts. Talking about the present gets us to Dia and…”

Nico’s phone pinged. Maki’s ringtone. “Hang on a sec.” Nico switched to full charm mode, Umi didn’t know where she found the energy. “Hey, sexy.”

“Nico, you have to come here, now.” A shrill, panicky voice.

“Who is this? Where’s Maki?”

“In the shower.”

“Who is this?”

Umi was surprised by the anger in Nico’s voice.

“It’s Rin, you know, Maki’s bestie.”

Nico could feel her forehead clench. “Is Maki okay? Is something wrong with Dia? Why are you on her phone.”

“Cause I don’t have your number on mine, duh. You have to come here. Now.”

NIco sagged, leaning against a wall, “Okay, Rin, where do you want Nico to go? Wisconsin?”

“Nah, Maki’s at me and Kayo-chin’s house.”

That was news to Nico. When and why had that happened? Nico sighed. She needed more than electrolytes and sugar to deal with this.

Rin continued. “Maki wants to go to this big party, to meet you, but it’s a Honoka party and whenever Maki goes to a Honoka party in this mood, there’s tequila and…”

“How can Maki meet Nico if Nico isn’t going to the party? Nico is working.” Nico flung out a hand as if to show Rin everything and everyone on the set.

“Oh, she won’t like that.” Rin sounded sad.

“Hang on a sec.” Nico put her hand over the mic, “Was Honoka Maki’s college roommate?”

Umi nodded, “Briefly, why?”

“Just learning some more Maki facts…”

Rin’s loud chirp called Nico’s attention back to her phone. “So you’ll take Maki to the party. I’ll tell Maki I ordered her a ride. It’ll be a good surprise.”

Nico wanted to punch the wall. “Nico can’t pick up Maki. Nico has to finish filming a dance, crash a car, rescue a dangerous damsel, and save the world.”

“But what am I gonna do, Nico?” A whine.

“Tell Maki to skip the party and call me later. For pizza or something, Nico knows a place.” And that was as much help as Rin was getting from Nico. Maki was an adult, she could make her own choices. Nico chose to follow through on her responsibilities.

Call ended, Nico slid the mute button over and tossed her phone into her bag. “And now Nico blows everybody away.”

Umi nodded, already going down her mental checklist for Nico’s upcoming stunt. “Make sure the safety harness is tight. I’ll go over all the fastenings.”

“You’re just fas-cinated by Nico Ni.” Nico bounced into her pose.

Umi stared at Nico, then quirked an eyebrow, “That tired, huh?”

Lowering her hands, Nico giggled, which lightened the weight, “Yeah, I guess so.”

###

“Is my ride here yet, Rin? Did Dia get to sleep? I still have to dry my hair.” Maki, a towel slung over her head, dressed in a clinging lilac to near black ombre swing dress. Rin grabbed Maki, forcing her into a seat.

“What the hell, Rin?” Pulling off the towel, Maki glared.

Rin had her hands on her hips, her expression serious, finger wagging at Maki’s nose. “You’re grounded, Maki. No parties.”

Maki stood, looming over Rin, staring down at her oldest friend. “I’ll say it again, Rin, what the hell?”

“Nico’s not going to that party. You’re in a foul mood and you’ll just get in trouble. You know how you get.”

“You got really boring.” Maki pushed Rin back.

Rin shook her head, “No. I’m a mom. In a relationship. And so are you. And Nico’s a real person with feelings and a stunt car crash to do…”

Maki pulled Rin back, lifting the shorter woman off her feet, nose to nose, “What do you mean, stunt car crash?”

“Nico said she had to” Rin concentrated, “Crash a car, rescue a girl, save the world.”

Maki dropped Rin and glanced at the nearest clock, it was after 9 p.m. “She’s still working? She stared at 5 a.m.”

“You work crazy shifts.”

“I’m used to it…” Maki tapped Rin on the shoulder, “How do you know so much about Nico?”

“I called her to tell her to take you to the party. And she said she had to crash a car.’ Rin inhaled, her chartreuse eyes determined.“You need to communicate better with Nico if you want a successful relationship like me and Kayo-chin, Maki.”

Maki sagged into the couch, head in her hands. Rin was practicing her parent of a teenager moves and Maki did not appreciate it. “Where is she?”

RIn shrugged.

Maki grabbed her phone, hitting Nico’s number. No reply. Then she tried Cocoro.

“Cocoro Yazawa. Can I help you?”

“This is Maki. Let me talk to Nico.”

“I’m sorry, Dr. Nishikino, my sister left no instructions about being interrupted.”

“Where are you?” Maki felt her jaw clench.

“I’m sorry, Dr. Nishikino, but the set location is secret.”

“Tell me…”

Cocoro’s curt, professional tones cut off Maki’s snapped demand, “I will let Nico Ni know you called, Dr. Nishikino.”

And a ringtone. Maki wanted to throttle Cocoro. But that wouldn’t be any way to make inroads with Nico. Umi, Nico had hired Umi, Umi would...no, Kotori would, Kotori could be persuaded to share information. Umi’s integrity was unbreachable by anyone not Kotori.

###

“Hey, is Nico coming home tonight?” Nozomi slid next to Eli on the couch, wearing Eli's robe, her hair loose and luxurious.

Eli put down her Atlantic magazine, “I don’t know. Why?”

“I want you to stop pretending you’re mad at me and sleep in my bed.” Nozomi bit at Eli's shoulder.

Eli snorted, “How romantic.”

“I’m not offering romantic.” Nozomi took the magazine out of Eli’s hand, then grabbed Eli’s wrists to pull her closer, green eyes alit with dangerous urges. “You have needs. I have wants. And really really graphic fantasies.” Nozomi’s tongue licked from Eli’s ear to her...

“NOZOMI!”

“Text Nico, tell her to sleep in her own bed. Unless you want her to know that you…”

Eli put both her hands on Nozomi’s face, pulled her beloved, impossible wife in close, and drifted into a slow promise of the deepest of kisses, the only way to stop the avalanche of provocation. Then she grabbed her phone.

###

Nico winced, her ears still ringing. The boom had blasted through her hearing protection and her head had maybe, maybe contacted the crash foam. She couldn’t exactly remember the sequence of events. The helmet had helped, but pulling it off dramatically had been immediately followed by a wobbly tilt into the car. Nico was now taking a minute, eyes closed, to rest before checking if the world really was spinning.

“NICO!”

The crash must have messed her up, she thought she heard Maki’s voice. Bad enough she’d nearly messed up the timing because she kept wondering if Maki had gone to Tsubasa’s party and how many shots of tequila had she downed. Maybe Nico had been thinking about tequila so much Nico was sympathetic tipsy.

“Nico?”

A hand on Nico’s arm, with a grip that was going to add to Nico’s bruises. Arnica gel, entire tube, maybe Nico could find a sympathetic dancer who had massage skills. Nico opened her eyes. Maki, face flushed, gorgeous eyes weary and worried, a killer ombre shaded dress clinging to curves that made Nico instantly more alert. Maki smiled at Nico, then opened her sling bag and handed Nico a menu.

“Read the prices to me, Nico.”

After a couple of minutes, Nico realized what was odd. “You carry pizza menus around with you?”

“Just read the numbers, Nico.” Maki’s beautiful long fingers traced a pattern on the paper.

Maki had knelt, staring up into Nico’s face. It was all weird. “What kind of a date is this? Quizzes first?”

“It’s a concussion test, Nico. Eye movement is one of the biggest disruptions.”

“You like….” Nico wondered why she’d started that sentence. “Eyes, Nico’s eyes.”

Maki bit her lip, nervous, it was sexy adorable, and Nico would have given up a platinum record to not be feeling nauseous.

Umi appeared next to Maki. “I checked the footage. There was definite head contact. Cocoro’s sending everyone home. I’m glad you’re here, Maki.”

“Nico, can you read me the prices of a couple of appetizers, three pizzas, and a dessert.” Maki’s voice was very calm, but Umi noticed her hands trembling.

“Clever.” Umi whispered.

“Just order whatever you want, Maki.” Nico let the menu drop, “Nico will pay.” Nico leaned back onto the car, Maki and Umi with a quick glance agreed to split and support Nico from either side.

“C’mon Nico, I’m taking you home.” Maki said quietly.

Nico frowned, “Nah, Eli’s right?”

“Are you sure she shouldn’t go to an ER?” Umi pulled her phone out, ready to hit 911.

“I’ll take her if her symptoms worsen.” Maki tapped the car hood, considering. “I want to avoid noise and people.”

“Hey, Sis!” Cocoro raced up, “The director wants to talk to you about tomorrow.”

“Nico won’t be here tomorrow.” Maki snapped.

Cocoro shoved between Maki and Nico, “You have no authority here, Ms. Nishikino. Nico handles everything.”

Maki spoke deliberately. “There is a high likelihood that Nico has a concussion. She will need to recover before she does anything else.”

Nico smiled and hugged her sister, “Hey, Cocoro! Where’s the car?”

“We can still shoot some of the background scenes tomorrow, Cocoro, if I remember the storyboard correctly. I’ll help you figure out who we need.” Umi pulled Cocoro to the side, trusting Maki to support Nico.

“But Tsubasa’s scheduled…”

“Tsubasa…” Nico raspberried, “can go away.”

“Is there a problem with her cameo? Cocoro sounded concerned.

“The problem is your sister has a concussion.” Maki put her arm around Nico’s waist, Nico leaned in to her, “I’m taking her home.”

“To your place?” Cocoro relaxed, “Good. Eli called me, Nico. She said she needed some wife time.”

Nico didn’t appear to be listening.

Maki did not want to deal with her parents. “We’ll just go to her house. I know the address.”

Cocoro frowned, “But there’ll be…”

Umi decided the matter, “That’s a good idea, Maki. Nico gets dropped off sometimes on the block behind and sneaks through her neighbor’s backyard. I suggest that.”

“Okay.” Maki kept careful watch of Nico, “Text me the address.”

“I’ll drive you. They’ll be watching for your car.”

“This one’s got Wisconsin plates. No one’s seen it.” Maki pulled a beanie out of her bag and pulled it over her red hair. She handed another one to Nico, “Let’s be spies.”

Nico stared at the hat, as if unsure what to do with it. Cocoro, after a glance at Maki, stepped forward and pulled it over Nico’s carefully coiffed apocalypse hair. “Dr. Nishikino’s gonna take good care of you, sis.”

“Nico doesn’t need a doctor.” Grumpy, hunched Nico detached from Maki to lean against the car.

“All right, Nico, I won’t be just a doctor.” Maki blinked, feeling tears in the corner of her eyes, “But buy me that pizza. For our date.”

Nico nodded, “Okay.”

“Let’s go pick it up.”

Nico stood, Maki offered her hand, Nico reached for it, missing the first time, “I’ll drive.”

Maki hummed.

A/N: Good and sad things the past week, hope you are well.

[revisionaryhistory]

Three Days ~ 71

~*~Emma~*~

For the rest of the trip, we relaxed listening to music. Before Sebastian had asked, I’d not thought too much about what I was going to do. Further limiting my time was a given, but I hadn’t thought about what that would look like. Talking about not waking up at “home” with my mom, dad, twin sister, and niece should have bothered me more than it did. That it didn’t, tells me it’s the right decision. One of the side effects of putting up with shit too long is once you decide to stop it’s not that big of a deal. Something inside has been moving in that direction for some time. What Sebastian had said about not sacrificing myself was on target. That I would do what it takes to take care of my sister isn’t in question. It’s been proven.

I texted Angie from the Uber to Sebastian's apartment. We were going to start up at Chelsea and Union Square with Aritzia, Anthropologie, and Free People. Those were sure thing stores, but not always original. We'd weave our way through Chelsea and into Soho. That shop Seb and I found would be last. We'd stop for lunch when we got hungry.

Angie hopped on the subway and headed to Union Square. It would take her thirty minutes and me fifteen from Sebastian’s place. Plenty of time to relax and watch Sebastian gather what he needed to work on. I saw a script, notebook, and a couple of real books. I think I'd find it fascinating to watch his process, but more importantly this time I wanted him to know I had friends and could amuse myself. I didn't care that he needed work time and I wasn’t going to need something from him for ignoring me. Doing things independent of your partner was important.

I grabbed a bottle of water for my journey and made my way to where Sebastian sat. He moved the items in his lap, making room for me to sit down. He supported my back and rubbed along my leg. "What are you shopping for?"

"Whatever I find." I smiled sneakily, "Especially if find something for Paris, our first date, and our live music fun tonight."

Sebastian’s hand made it to my ass, "When I think of live music I picture short, revealing, sexy."

"I love how you think." I ran my fingers through his hair. "Can I bother you for five minutes?"

"Sure" His eyes held questions.

I pulled his head closer, pressing my lips to his until he caught on and joined in the fun.

Our little mini make out session was going to make me late. Assuming Angie left as soon as we texted, walked straight onto a train, and there were no delays. None of these were likely. She'd forgive my lateness anyway. I looped my crossbody bag over my head, "I'll text if it's anything other than seven."

"Ok." He ran toward the kitchen. "Hang on." I heard a drawer slam before he reversed direction and came back. Sebastian held up a key, the slightest smile appearing on his face, "In case I'm in the shower or something when you come back. You remember the code?"

"Yes." I'd punched it in when we got here less than half an hour ago. He was nervous. I admit I had to focus to keep my hand steady as I took his offering. "I love you."

Sebastian opened the door and gave me a quick kiss as I walked out. "Love you, too."

I was a couple of steps away when I heard my name.

"Emma, put it on your key ring so you don't lose it."

The door closed before I could reply. I guess that eliminates any question if the key was a temporary just in case he was in the shower today sort of thing. What made me smile the most was the lack of conversation. If he'd overthought the decision, he didn't feel the need to talk it through. No discussion about what it meant or didn't mean. He may have been nervous, but he wasn't uncomfortable. I seriously doubt he's in the habit of giving out keys to his place, so nervous but not uncomfortable was good.

Angie was leaning against the building when I walked up. We hugged like we hadn't seen each other in months. "Sorry, I’m late."

"Were you having sex? I'll forgive you if you were having sex."

I grimaced with a shake of my head, "Making out."

My best friend huffed out a breath, "Close enough." She held the door open for me, "I got here like two minutes ago."

Aritzia, Anthropologie, and Free People were right in a line. We'd hit them in my favorite order. Aritizia was more comfort clothes for me. Their clothes were more staples than fun. But today I found a gorgeous Sicily sweater and cardigan in a soft heathered cashmere. A pair of tie front pants in purple plaid would look awesome for wandering museums. Anthropologie gifted me with a sequined tunic dress for a night out. A simple black midi dress, a grey-blue fringed and a textured cardi, and a long black wrap jacket. Free People had a colorful mini dress, a definite statement Hyacinth dress, and a fun floral dress. Assorted other things went into my bags too. I went a little crazy, but in my defense, I hadn’t been shopping in a long time and my best friend was egging me on. Plus, there was someone to appreciate what I wore. I had all sorts of cute clothes, but dressing for a boyfriend was different. Especially one who liked to look. I knew what he liked and indulged.

Conversation while we shopped was mostly about the shopping. It's good to have a friend who'll not only tell you something makes your ass look fat but also say, "You look amazing but where the fuck are you gonna wear that more than once?"  Part of the fun was trying on horrifying things. Those things you don't understand how they were ever made. We'd mix those in with good stuff and laugh until we cried. We had a long-standing tradition that whoever found the most "exquisite" outfit was treated to lunch. We were pretty even and had pictures for documentation. Today I would be buying lunch.

"We’ve got a table at two. Alissa's going to meet us."

"That'll be fun. Are she and Will coming tonight?"

"I don't think so. They've got a family thing."

I nodded and we headed toward Chelsea, stopping at the Guitar Store for strings and a capo. We had plenty of time so we stopped anywhere else that caught our eyes. Walking was more private and so was our conversation.

"Anything I should know about before I see you tonight with your boyfriend?"

I sighed in relief. Finally. I bumped her hip with mine, "I love him."

Angie put her arm around me, "This is not news, Emma."

We shared a laugh. "I wasn't sure until I was in the cab leaving his place. Georgia solidified it. Sebastian was so good talking me through all their shit. He and Eli have more in common now. They both hate my parents."

"Eli doesn't hate your parents."

I pulled away, looking at her with raised eyebrows and clear disbelief written on my face. "Try again."

Angie spoke through our laughter, "Eli tries not to, but they make it truly hard. I think he'd be more forgiving if you didn't have us and your Seattle family. Eli loves you like a little sister, best friend, and some weird second wife he's never fucked. He’s protective. He and Sebastian are going to have to figure out how to share."

"They'll arm wrestle or something. Then maybe you'll become Sebastian’s little sister, friend, and second girlfriend. Ooo, we could use you to confuse the fans. If we're out and get seen we can trade off and kiss each other’s dates. Set up a different narrative."

"Good idea.

“It'll be more fun for you. I have kissed Eli, but you don't know about Seb."

"I doubt anything will become so severe that making out with Sebastian is the answer." She smiled, "Not that I would mind."

"You would not mind. He's one hell of a good kisser."

She backtracked, "Who said it first? How did it happen."

"He surprised me showing up early from Canada, watched me cleaning up my classroom for a minute, then told me the song I was dancing along to was about sex. I turned around and he had on those ears. He looked so adorable. He looked at me with his mouth and eyes open wide and said, “Fuck, I love you."

Angie slapped her hand on her chest, "He didn't know until right them." She gasped, "He came in wearing those ears to be cute and winds up telling you he loves you. He is adorable.” She glared at me, "And you said it back."

I nodded, “In Romania."

"What's up with learning Romanian?"

I trusted her with everything. "It's his name. He prefers it in Romanian. I've been learning just enough to add it to his name. It has a very nice effect on him.” I remembered the wall and shook myself out of the memory. “Plus it makes him happy.”

"And you’re happy?"

I nodded, "Incredibly. All the reasons we talked about are still going on. He adores me and it's clear by how he treats me. And I love taking care of him." I knew she’d understand what I meant.

"There is nothing better in the world. I'm so happy you have someone. It had been so long I thought you were intentionally keeping everyone away."

“Just waiting for the right one."  I pulled out my key chain. "I do have a new key."

Angie snatched it, "He keyed you!"

"Looks like it."

"Do you worry this is going fast? I mean it is going fast."

"Yes. It is going fast. There is a risk that maybe this time next year we could be married, have three kids, and signing our divorce papers." I barely made it through without laughing.

Angie snorted, "Sign a prenup so you don’t have to pay alimony when his mid-life crisis tanks his career."

"I talked to Trevor about Sebastian. He knows about my parents, Amy, rehab, and how shitty they can be to me, but he doesn't how about what happened." I stopped walking and looked at her. "I'm starting to feel ashamed for not telling him. That's never happened before." Relationship or friendship. It had never happened. I looked at the most recent member of my secret club. "I don't want to."

She understood, "Why?"

"I don't want him to change the way he looks at me."

Angie smiled, "He won't. You don’t know that yet. It's only been a month. When you know, you'll tell him, and he will look at you just the same or better than he does now. It'll be fine."

"How do you know?" It wasn’t a smart assed clap back. I sincerely wanted to know her reasoning.

"Because he feels different to you and about you. You’re both sharing things neither of you share. That’s the glue for your relationship. You’re adding a little more glue, letting it set up, then adding more. It's getting stronger and eventually, you'll both tell the big secrets and it will be like a layer of epoxy around you that will make you near impossible to break.”

"I like that."

"I speak the truth."

We beat Alissa to the restaurant and ordered a pitcher of margaritas. I was still rearranging and shoving bags into bags under the table when she got there. Angie jumped up and they hugged. I took a step closer, but instead of hugging me, Alissa looked at me warily. “Is it ok for me to be here? Angie said it would be.”

I looked at Angie then back to Alissa, “Why wouldn’t it be?” Oh, what the fuck was going on? I just wanted a nice drunken late lunch with friends after a successful shopping expedition then go home and make out some more with my hot boyfriend.

Alissa grimaced, “I’m sorry for saying all that about Sebastian.”

“Oh!” I laughed and put my hand on my chest. Relieved. I pulled her into a hug, “I’m not upset. Between you and Kirk and the shit Eli told him, we had a somewhat uncomfortable, but really good conversation.”

“Good.” We sat down and Alissa kept talking. “I didn’t mean to be negative. It was just strange. How he was acting and the things you were saying. In a good way. It didn’t come out that way.”

Why is she still . . . oh. “Sebastian said something.”

She cringed, “More of a small group WhatsApp with me and Kirk.”

I laughed again. “Sounds fun.” I sort of wish he hadn’t done that, but I understand why he did. In the end, it was a good thing, but they couldn’t know if I would be scared off by their words.

Angie jumped in, “There’s no way Emma didn’t talk that through.”

Alissa didn’t know me well enough yet to know I wouldn’t let the conversation fester. “Especially with us being a thousand miles apart for the next two weeks. Why is that distance makes time seem longer?”

“I don’t know, but it does. Seb was right to be angry. We could have screwed things up. Neither of us realized how important you were to him. He was worried. That’s more like Seb. Kinda. He’s confusing.”

I think I know what she’s going for. It’s very like him to be worried, but not so much calling out a friend about a girlfriend. From what we’ve talked about and what I learned on that post he’s not had a history of defending girlfriends. I could be wrong, but I don’t think so. I wasn’t willing to go into that here. I changed the subject. “And then he goes and tells Will to post a picture of us.”

Alissa nodded, “How’d he react to the comment saying he was going to propose?”

Angie started laughing, “She’d say no.”

“I told him not to. He’d need a good reason. Like he’s actually not a citizen and needs a marriage green card. Or maybe health insurance. I have good health insurance.”

That was the end of that and we went on to other topics. Alissa and Will were having dinner with family but would come by Bowery Ballroom if they were done early. Keaton and Eli’s bands were friends and often teamed up to fill a bigger hall and split the money. They usually made more that way than in one of the smaller halls. Both did a full set and even though Keaton was the bigger name they would trade off who opened. Tonight was Eli’s turn.

We split up outside the restaurant. Alissa going back home and Angie and I heading to the boutique by Sebastian’s.  It wasn’t a horrible walk, but we had a lot of bags. In the cab, Angie gave me a look. One I could read perfectly. She wanted to know what I’d avoided at lunch. I like Alissa and I’d say we’re friends. She’s also married to one of Sebastian’s best friends. I didn’t know what the line was. Not for Sebastian. He’d tell me to do what I wanted. The line was mine. Will and Alissa were still enough strangers to me that I wasn’t comfortable with too much information flow between all of us. I wouldn’t think anything of it with Angie and Eli and I was confident that given some more time it would be the same with Will and Alissa. Also, I didn’t know how intimate of conversations Sebastian had with his friends. I’d need to be around more to know.  

I’d told Angie about our conversation after the party. In general. With what Alissa had said I went into a little more detail, filled in holes, and answered questions. I watched her thinking. I knew what was coming and was glad for it. “Are you worried? I’d be worried. Maybe not worried. Concerned. It’s like being a rebound. You’re the first after something else, only the something else is personal growth. You don’t know if he’s going to go back. You know what I mean?”

I did. “If he wasn’t so forthcoming with talking about it, I would be concerned. He’s laid it all out there. What he’s done, not done, feels bad about. He doesn’t act like that with me. If he starts too, I’ll know what's going on.” I told her about the conversation on the deck where he did want to shut down and how we got through it. “Struggling with change doesn’t bother me. All the girlfriend stuff.” I shook my head and shrugged. “We’re going to have to figure out what both of us are good with. I think I’m going to be able to not get sucked into comments or let them get to me, but I don’t know for sure. I know private is ok, but I’m not ok with being denied. I’d feel like a dirty little secret. I could change my mind. Could be next week. No idea.”

Angie took my hand, “I still get hate from Eli’s fans. We had to figure out how to deal. You guys will too. The rest, I think you’re right. If he’d gotten pissy and refused to talk about what Alissa and Kirk had said it would be a problem. Everybody gets a chance to do things differently. I don’t for one second think you’re going in blind or overlooking things because you want a boyfriend. You’d walk away if he wasn’t treating you right.” She got the look she gets when she’s about to tell me something I don’t like. I know that look, because I have the same one. “I’m one hundred percent not saying now. Way too soon. You’re already started to feel ashamed and that’s not going to get better. Might not get worse, but it’s not going to get better. You are the bravest person I know. Don’t let being afraid of your past ruin your future.”

[princecharmingmendes]

Paris | Day Nine

When your parents decide to travel with your best friend’s family that you haven’t talked to in a while, who you have a massive secret crush on, what could go wrong, right? Right?! (best friends to lovers)

*Hi, honey, this is the last part of Paris (my first series here) and I really do hope you love it!

*Word Count: 3.7K+ 

*Warnings: cursing, drinking, angst, kissing (?), extreme fluff;

*Posted: January 30th, 2020

       day one  |  day two  |  day three  |  day four  |  day five  |  day six  |  day seven  |  day eight 

                                                     -*-

 I started waking up feeling a little cold. not sensing Shawn's presence close to me, even though I'm quite sure I slept with him last night. Instead of fully waking up, I decided to let myself surrender to my tired state and go back to sleep completely. What felt like a long time later, I started to realize my surroundings better, a tale tell sign I was actually waking up for real tgis time, but now I felt warm and comfy. 

"Baby?" I heard his voice softly calling me, so I just hummed in response and he pulled me closer to his chest from behind, since he seems to be the big spoon "you awake?"

"Mmhm"

"Do you want to get up?"

"No"

"Great, cause I bought you breakfast" he said placing a kiss on the tip of my nose, making me smile.

"Hey, you did what?"

 “I woke up earlier and you were too cute, so I decided not to wake you up and went on the market to get us something to have a nice late breakfast in bed”

“Oh my, I love you so damn much” I said nuzzling my face on his neck.

“Love you too” he said hugging me tighter. 

“Where’s the food?”

“There” he said chuckling and pointing to an improvised tray with a whole lot of food.

“That’s too much”

“I’m eating too”

“Still too much”

“I’ll eat it tomorrow” he said chuckling.

“Fair enough” I said sitting on the bed as he got up to get the food “what time is it?”

“It’s 12:30”

“What time is lunch?”

“Three”

“Great” I said smiling and pressing a kiss to his cheek as he sat down beside me. 

So we ended up eating so much that we got too lazy to move, so we ended up laying down again until we really had to get up to get ready for lunch. We ended up a little late and decided to meet our parents at the restaurant, which led us to a lot of accusations of our situation “you two were too cozy to move” or “it’s because they couldn’t keep their hands to themselves”. 

Could they be more annoying? Still love them though.

We were the main attention during lunch, specially because they’ve been dreaming for us to get together since my mom found out she was having a girl on year younger than Karen’s boy. Apart from that, we spent the whole time talking about the best moments of the trip and some funny stories that not everyone knew. They also asked about our day on Disneyland which led to pictures and more jokes about how me and Shawn would look perfect together.

After that, we headed to our rooms to get our bags and clothes ready for tomorrow, since today was the last day. Shawn helped with mine and I helped him with his. When we were both settled down on my bed, we started watching something to kill time.

“What do you want to do for dinner?” He asked out of the blue, turning to me.

“Hm... eat?”

“No, honey” he said laughing “do you want to order? Want to go out?”

“What do you have in mind?”

“Hm… me? Nothing big... I just... I got reservations on a boat for Dinner on the Siena River”

“You what?”

“Just in case you wanted something nice”

“When did you do that?!”

“The day we went to the same boat”

“Shit, Shawn, can’t believe you”

“We don’t have to, I just... don’t know, wanted to give you something special” he said shrugging.

“Shawnie... you didn’t have to, you are the best thing I could have right now” I said holding his hand. 

“Thank you” he said kissing my hands.

“No, thank YOU, but yes, I’d love to go there with you” I said smiling at him “just the two of us?”

“Mmhmm” he said biting his lower lip.

“I’d love it” I said smiling at him and he did the same, pulling me into his embrace.

“At eight, before you ask me”

“Thank you so much”

“It’s okay, baby” he said smiling down at me. 

I got up an hour earlier than we were supposed to leave because I wanted to look extra good tonight, just in case I decide to do something or maybe to push him to do or say something. So I got in the shower and spent extra time shaving and moisturizing my whole body, also watched and blowed dry my hair. I did a really basic makeup look, only red lipstick, highlighter and fake lashes that stand out more, the rest I kept looking as natural as I could. 

When I was finally ready, I knocked on Shawn’s room to make sure he wasn’t naked and got in, being met with him with a button up that I love, a scarf and winter jacket, and his tight black slacks that I love so much. But the best part was his reaction. He looked at me and seemed so chocked I ended up giggling like a teenager. He sucked in a breath and trapped his lower lip between his lips and I swear I heard a little suppressed whimper. 

“God, Y/N, this is just unfair”

“What?” I asked looking down at my outfit.

I was wearing my new pair of thigh highs boots and a leather black tight skirt. I had a lacy see through in the nicest places long sleeved bodysuit with my plaid scarf. I had also had a really heavy coat hanging on my arm for when we were outside. My hair had the front clipped back nicely and I decided to use a clear gloss on top of my red lipstick, that matched my scarf.

“All heads are going to turn to you”

“And...?”

“I wasn’t intending on sharing your attention tonight” he said chuckling at his own little joke “not that you can’t, it’s just that...”

“I know what you meant, Shawnie” I said grinning at him “shall we?” I asked offering my hand and he quickly grabbed it, kissing it lightly.

“Yeah” 

                                                          -*-

As we got there, someone already showed us our table, that was close to the big windows that presented us with the beautiful sightings through the whole dinner thing. We sat across from each other and they placed the menus on the table, quickly leaving us alone. I was completely speechless with the whole thing, still admiring the pretty view and the pretty boy in front of me. 

“Still with me?”

“Yeah, I’m just overwhelmed I guess” I said smiling softly at him.

“In a good way?”

“In the best way” I said as I felt him lacing our fingers together on the table “why did you do all this?”

“I just felt like it”

“Okay, why did you feel like it?”

“I wanted to spoil you a little, to compensate for my shitty friendship lately”

“You didn’t have to”

“I did”

“But I already forgave you”

“But I didn’t”

“You should” 

“I don’t want to argue with you”

“It’s fair, thank you for everything, this whole trip’s been incredible, specially because of you”

“I can say the same thing” he said bringing my hand to his lips softly “I love you and missed you way too much”

“Missed you too”

“But you won’t have to anymore, I won’t let you go anymore” 

“I hope you don’t” I said and he chuckled lightly.

“So, how’s college?”

“Hm, it’s nice...”

And that’s how we spent most of our night, lightly chatting and exchanging delicate caresses, something innocent but still too intimate for just a friendship. The whole dinner made me feel so special but so confused, it’s like he’s trying to tell me something but can’t, it’s weird to not read him like a book. 

As we were going upstairs, I started changing the weight from one leg to another due to the new heels and he noticed, literally swapping me off my feet making me giggle. He chuckled on the elevator and held me close, carrying me bridal style to our rooms, where he placed me on my bed and gave me some space to shower or change into my pj’s. So I decided to take one last shower and when I left I saw him looking like such boyfriend material my heart sank on my chest. 

“Hey” 

“Hey, Shawn, are you going to sleep in here?”

“I was hoping you wouldn’t mind the company”

“I don’t”

“Great” he said offering me his hand, which I took and he pulled me onto the bed, making me fall on his chest laughing.

“Hi” I said a little lower since I was practically on top of him, with our faces mere inches from the other. 

I saw him swallowing hard and that made my heart stop. I tried getting up but his arms kept me there in a vice grip, no letting me move an inch. His gaze dropped to my lips and it was my turn to swallow hard and start to have a heart attack. His pink tongue appeared to wet his pout and I didn’t dare to look away, which made me feel incredibly warm on the right places. 

He leaned in even closer, so close I could feel his breath on my lips and his brushing against mine. My eyes fell shut as I stood as hard as a stone on his arms, trying not to move as much as I could. But when I decided to lean even closer to crash my lips on his he pulled away, looking at the Eiffel Tower outside. That was it, I couldn’t take anymore.

“You are always saying I can’t do this or that to you, but you are definitely not allowed to do that” I said taping his chest and getting up making him sit up.

“What are you talking about?”

“You just can’t okay? Isn’t that what you always say to me?!”

“Y/N... honey, listen” he said stretching his hand on my direction but I took a step back.

“No, YOU listen!” I said pointing at his face “you can’t show up out of nowhere and do this to me, after months of not even calling me and treating me like a princess! Just so in two months you find someone new who’ll only break your heart so you’ll come back to me to glue all the pieces back in, this is fucking unfair, Shawn”

“Y/N...”

“Don’t” I said looking outside “you won’t do this to me again okay? I’m not falling for your tricks again”

“Which tricks are you talking about?”

“Oooh, now you don’t know?” I asked sarcastically, feeling the lump on my throat forming and the tears trying to spill. Fuck! 

“I have no idea what you’re talking about!”

“Of course you don’t, you don’t even notice you do this! How could I’ve been so dumb?! Ooh you’re so good, Mendes”

“You’re not making any sense, please look at me, honey, explain it”

“I’m trying to!” I said looking his way when I felt the first tear roll down my face “I’ve been trying to tell you for years but you’re just a dumb boy! What I’m trying to say is you can’t come around when you’re not with a girl just to make me feel like I’m the only one you care about, taking me to dinners, cuddling till I’m asleep, calling me ‘baby’ and stuff, taking me to Disney, taking me to fancy dinners, almost kissing me and then just giving up, you can’t do this to me, not when I’ve always been here and always been fucking in love with you, and the worst part is that you don’t even notice it! God, you’re just so good, I wish I could hate you! I...”

“You love me love me?” He asked cutting me off.

“That’s all you got from what I’ve said?!”

“Shut up for a second, dummie”

“Shawn...”

“No, just think” he said and I sat down in front of him “when was the last time you saw me doing all of this for a girl? Never! And that’s because I’ve been in love with you for ages, you idiot! I’ve never acted on it because I thought you would reject me and I would lose you for real, like not having you even as a friend”

“You called me an idiot?!”

“Y/N, this really doesn’t matter right now, does it?” He asked softly cupping my face on his big hands and I shook my head “I love you and only you, and I’m sorry I’ve made you think differently, and it’s always been you, since I’m a teenager, or not even then, I’ve never wanted someone as bad as I do now”

“I love you too” I said barely in a whisper and he smiled so brightly that he could light up this whole town as he pulled me to straddle his thighs.

“Now I know, honey” he said hugging me tight by my waist and kissing my forehead making me shake my head “What?”

“Wrong place, asshole” I said and he only chuckled lightly, leaning closer to me and rubbing our noses lightly together.“

You’re the worst” he said brushing his lips with mine.

“I know, and you love it” I said finally crashing out lips together.Kissing him felt like nothing I’ve ever thought about, not even close, not even in my wildest dreams. His lips felt like heaven. The perfect combination between soft and firm, sweet but filled with desire, and in the right pace. Everything fell into place. When his tongue met mine I literally melted, and released the softest moan I could but he listened and deepen the kiss in seconds. 

“You’re literally perfect” he said breaking the kiss to recover his breath and rested his forehead against mine “I’m so sorry”

“For what?”

“For waiting way too long to talk to you and to kiss you”

“I’ll forgive you...”“You will? As in you haven’t yet?!”

“Hm... dunno, maybe you should kiss me again to help me forgive you faster” I said and he chuckled.

And that’s how we almost lost breakfast on the next morning to check out, because we simply couldn’t keep our hands off each other and ended up going too late to bed, but at least was worth it. He’s always worth it.                

                                                            -*-

*a few months later*

“Okay, what are the reasons that I should move in with you again?” I asked laying with my foot propped against the headboard of my bed as I spoke with Shawn that was on the bathroom getting ready for bed in my tiny apartment. 

“Well, first, my bed is bigger”

“I can always buy a bigger bed” I said playing with the strings of my (his) hoodie.

“My place is bigger and safer”

“I don’t care about the size, you should know that by now, Mendes” I said obviously mocking him, but he turned on the bathroom to face me, and even though I was seeing him upside down, I could see the furrow on his brows “I’m kidding, baby, don’t be mad at me”

“I’m not punishing you with tickles right now because I’m trying to make a point here and you look so damn cute in my clothes” he said closing the bathroom door coming to the room and sitting at the end of the bed “oh, and you know damn well that size is not the problem here, neither is making you c...”

“Okay, okay, I was joking, I’m sorry, I know” I rapidly cut him off feeling my face heat up.

“Okay, back to the real deal, my place is the same distance from college and I go to the same school as you, we could go together, less gas and driving involved”

“Keep going”

“You wouldn’t need to worry about packing every single time you go there and neither would I, we could always wake up next to each other, it would be cheaper since we would be sharing bills”

“Anything else?”

“I would always be there for you physically when you need me, we can split chores, be in each other’s company, it’s closer to your parent’s house, Flo can come visit you and sleep on the guest room, I would be able to spoil you...”

“You already do that”

“And even though our relationship thing is a little over ten months, we’ve known each other forever and I’ve always loved you, so you don’t have to afraid of us not working out, we’ve been for the past twenty years!”

“Shawn...”

“What?” He asked softly, playing with my hair but I quickly sat up to not let his sweet touches mess up with my mind.

“It’s late, I had a tough week and so did you, can we talk about this some other day?”

“Honey, you’ve been putting this conversation off for a month now!”

“I know, I just want to think clearly about this and for that I need space and time” I said holding his hand and kissing it gently “I’m sorry, baby”

Shawn sighed heavily and nodded, letting go of my hand and getting up.

“Where do you think you’re going?”

“I’m not supposed to leave?”

“No! Are you insane? Why would you think that?”

“You said you needed time and space, I was going to give you that” he said lowering his head.

I kneeled on the bed and dragged myself to the end of the bed to cup his face, forcing him to look at me.

“Baby... I didn’t mean for you to go, I need you here with me right now, okay?”

“I’m sorry”

“For what, Shawnie?”

“For being so insistent and annoying”“You’re not, baby, I swear, I understand you, I really do, and you don’t annoy me at all, I actually find it really cute”

“So you’re not mad at me?” He asked and I shook my head “so you’re actually considering moving in with me?”

I nodded and I saw a glimpse of hope between so much love pouring out of his eyes and whole body language that in that moment I knew I was hooked with him forever.

“I love you so much” I said softly wrapping my arms around his neck and his hands flew to my waist.

“I love you more” he said kissing me as if I was made of glass, so softly and gently that I could barely enjoy it enough “let’s get some sleep, eh? I know you haven’t been able to sleep well the past few days, I hope I can finally help with that” he said pulling the duvet for me.I laid back on my side of the bed and covered myself as I felt Shawn’s side dip under his weight. 

He delicately pulled me to his chest, where I rested my head to listen to his steady heartbeat to lure me to sleep, one of his hands rubbing up and down my back while the other was tangled in my hair, caressing it softly. I place a gentle kiss on his chest and I felt him give a gentle squeeze on the back of my neck in return. He turned off the lights and I hugged him tighter to me, taking in his scent to clear my head.

“Shawn?” I called him barely in a whisper after a few minutes of pure silence and finally feeling my whole body relax against his warm form.

“Hm”

“Are you awake?”

“Yeah, anything wrong, honey?” He asked with concern laced on his voice.

“Actually, there is something wrong but can easily be fixed”

“And what is it?”

“My place is kinda small, my bed sucks, it’s not the safest apartment, it’s not that close to my parents house, it’s not the cheapest and I have to do all on my own, Flo always have to sleep at the living room or with me, I always have to pack to go to your place, I have to walk alone or drive everyday alone to campus, you’re not always here to wake up with me and to be here physically whenever I need you” 

“Oh, yeah? And what do you suggest us to do to solve that problem?” He asked playfully, the smile clear on his voice.

“I guess I should move in with you then” I said simply shrugging and he chuckled.

“Okay, sweetheart, I think you should really sleep now” he said kissing the top of my head and I place my chin on his sternum, starring at him as best as I could with the only source of light being from the moon. 

“But I’m actually serious” I said and I saw realization hit him “I’ve been thinking about it a lot, and you’re actually right in every single point you’ve made, it would be best for both of us, and I know our parents would love it actually” 

“Are you really saying that you’re moving in with me?”

“Yes, Shawn, I want to move in with you, whenever you want me to” I said and I swear his smile could light up the whole apartment.

“Oh my God, Y/N, are you really serious? You swear?!”

“I do, baby, I swear, this is not a joke, I just finally realize how much I love you and need you with me”

“I love you too, oh my God” he said crashing his lips on mine, this time not as gentle as before.

He was quickly licking into my mouth like he had the whole time on the planet, with so much passion and love that I almost melted in his embrace. His hand on my back was holding me so tightly against him like I was going to escape or disappear, and the hand at the back of my neck was also holding me in place.

I grabbed a fist full of his curls, tugging lightly at it, electing a low moan from him, followed by a sequence of pecks all over my face, including my lips and the tip of my nose. Finally when he stopped his ‘assault’ on my face, I placed my forehead on top of his brushing or noses together, trying to catch my breath. 

“You’re the best thing that has ever happened to me” he said softly “you and that trip to Paris”

“Where everything started”

“No, honey, where everything fell into place” he said placing one last kiss on my lips before guiding me into dreamland.

The End 

                                                    -*-

*Thank you guys so much for sticking with me until the end of this series, it’s actually really sad to announce this, but still, I’m so thankful for everyone who liked, reblogged and supported this series in general, so yeah, thank you so much, this meant a lot to me

*Please reblog or like this post if you liked it so I’ll know if I’m supposed to keep posting.

*I’m sorry if there are any spelling mistakes.

*Please do not repost this without giving me the credit, this is a completely original piece and I do not give permission to copy this!

*Hope you guys enjoyed it!

*xoxo*

-🌙

@fivefeetapartt​

[girls-scenarios]

Thinking Of You

Idol: Handong (Dreamcatcher)

Prompt: I'm glad to see requests are open now, and I'm sorry in advance for you guys and every Somnia who'll read, but could you do a sappy, in the beginning very sad, Handong scenario where the reader (could be Dongie's S/O) is missing her a lot since she's back in China for Idol Producer? S/O doesn't know when she'll come back and since she most likely can't use sns it's only the members who can give a little comfort. But please make it a happy ending I miss Handong. Thank you and sorry 😂💕💕💕

Writer: Admin Kiwi

A/N: There’s nothing to be sorry for, I love writing sappy fluff! I hope you enjoy!

♡ Tip Jar♡

When Handong had first told you that she would be going to China for schedules, you hadn’t thought too much about it. She was an idol, after all, she had to travel a lot. You got used to it since she was never gone for too long. Her schedules usually only lasted around a week and then she’d be back in South Korea with you. You’d figured this trip would be the same.

Oh, how wrong you’d been.

The first week was fine. She didn’t get to text very often, but she tried to send you a text when she woke up, something cute and simple to show you that she was thinking of you.

-Good morning, I hope your day goes well, I love you💕

The second week, you woke up expecting her to be back only to see her usual text, and that was when it hit you: this trip was going to be a lot different that her usual schedules. And you already missed her.

-Do you know how long you’ll be in China?

It took her an entire day to respond.

-I’m not really sure :( until we’re done filming the show I think. I wish I was home with you.

Your heart hurt when you read the message. Idol Producer took a long time to record. She could be gone for an entire month, with your only connection to her being the occasional text. Sighing, you placed your phone down on your bed and fell back against your blankets, staring up at your ceiling. You already wanted to hold her in your arms, to see her pretty smile and hear her soft voice as she told you about her day. How long would it be until you could see her again? How long would you have to wait to kiss her again? To hold her hand and laugh with her while watching cheesy movies? You wanted to call her, but you knew she was busy. You wanted to ask her to come back, but you knew you couldn’t do that.

This was her job. She was an idol. And you had to respect that. If she knew how upset you were, she wouldn’t be able to do her best on her show. So despite your aching heart, you rolled over and picked up your phone again, slowly typing out a message of support.

-I wish so too, but I understand why you can’t be. Try your best, I’ll be rooting for you!

You sent the message after adding a long line of heart emojis, knowing that she’d smile when she saw them, then rolled back over and sighed.

This was going to suck.

-

You had never missed anyone this much. Every morning when you woke up to cold sheets, your heart sunk a little further and you didn’t even want to get up. Every time you walked past the restaurants she liked or saw something she would have found funny, it just made you feel worse. On the days she didn’t send you a text, you stared at your phone, desperately wishing for anything to come through from her. Finally, you understood all the sad love songs about missing a lover. When before you might have turned them off, now you listened to them, feeling hollow inside.

The wind this winter seemed to be a little bit colder than normal.

-

Jiu noticed how down you were almost immediately after seeing you at the store. When she noticed the dark circles under your eyes, she reached out and touched your shoulder gently, giving you a sympathetic smile.

“You miss her, don’t you?”

“Yes,” you admitted, hanging your head. “I want to support her with her activities and her career, but I can’t help missing her. It’s weird not having her here.”

“I understand. We all miss her too, although I’m sure not as much as you do.” Jiu nodded in the direction of their dorms. “Why don’t you come over? We’re making a big dinner tonight. You wouldn’t have to eat alone.”

You thought about it for a moment. You didn’t want to intrude, but your house seemed so cold and empty. “Are you sure it won’t be a bother?”

“Of course it won’t be, you’re Handong’s partner, so you’re part of the group! Plus, what kind of friends would we be if we didn’t give you company right now? We care about you, (Y/N). You’re our friend.”

You smiled, finally feeling a little warmer. It wasn’t Handong, but at least you had your friends to keep you company. At least you weren’t missing her alone. “You’ve convinced me,” you said, “lead the way.”

Jiu made a sort of rib soup for dinner that warmed you all over, and Sua and Yoohyeon kept everyone laughing late into the night. The company was nice, and you left the dorm feeling much better. Out in the street, you looked up at the sky and watched your breath curl away in the cold, reaching up towards the sky. On a whim, you pulled out your phone and took a photo of the clear sky to send to Handong.

-Are you seeing the same night sky as me?

This time, she replied by the time you got home. Attached was a photo of a slightly cloudy night sky taken from a window.

-I was just looking at the stars thinking the same thing. I love you. Sleep well.

-I love you too.

-

Maybe it was just your imagination, but the sun was shining a little brighter when you walked into the airport, your heart beating quick with anticipation. It had been a little over a month now since you’d last seen Handong, but she was finally coming home. You’d finally get to see her.

You couldn’t stand still as you waited outside the terminal, shifting from foot to foot. Would she look different? Had she cut her hair while she was over there? Would she be happy to see you right away? Questions raced through your head as you waited, your hands stuffed deep into your pockets.

After what seemed like an eternity of waiting, the doors slid open and you found yourself holding your breath. A flood of people walked through, chatting and looking around, and you squinted, looking closely for a familiar face. Couples, families, and friends reunited as you waited, a little jealous of them already. Where was she?

Finally, the doors slid open and she walked out, pulling her suitcase behind her and looking at the crowd with hopeful eyes. Her eyes locked with yours as you moved to the end of the barrier, and a smile broke out over her face. Your heart soared and you laughed as, finally, she ran into your arms, hugging you so tight that you could hardly breathe. You hugged her back just as tightly, breathing in the familiar smell of her perfume and trying not to cry.

“I’m back,” she said when she finally pulled away, her hands holding onto your shoulders as she beamed. You took in her appearance for a moment. She hadn’t changed at all. Your Handong was back.

“You’re back,” you said breathlessly, and pulled her into a hug again. “I missed you so much that I could hardly bear it.”

“I missed you too,” she murmured into your ear. “I thought about you every night. It was so cold without you.”

“It was cold here too. But the sun is shining today.” You pulled back and laughed. The tears were come, replaced by excitement and happiness. “It must have heard you were coming back.”

She laughed as well and shook her head. “Oh whatever! But thank you for coming to see me at the airport.” She touched your face affectionately, her smile soft. “I wanted to see you so badly. All I could think about on the plane was seeing you again and running into your arms.”

“What kind of partner would I be if I didn’t come pick you up after not seeing you for over a month?” You took her hand in your own, swinging it happily. “I would be disappointed in myself.”

“I guess you’re right. But still, thank you.” She grabbed her luggage again. “Should we go? I like planes but right now I want to get as far away from the airport as possible. Oh, are you hungry? I haven’t eaten anything since this morning and I’m starving.”

“You can eat me,” you said, making her laugh and playfully nudge you with her shoulder. “Just kidding. How do you feel about getting takeout and going back to my place?” All you wanted to do was hold her and talk to her, and something about her tight hold on your hand and her shoulder brushing against yours told you that she felt the same way.

“I like that idea. But really, I’d be happy with anything as long as I’m with you.”

[sandershospitalau]

Familiar Faces

(Trigger Warnings- Remus, Deceit, Attempted suicide, gangs, mentions of death/kidnappings, flashbacks)

Archive Of Our Own

————————

“Don’t get me wrong, sir, I know I’m gonna need some help starting out,” Nurse Venzon stammered as they padded through the halls of Sanders Hospital beside Virgil. “I’m just surprised that the director of nursing decided to be the one to help me.”

“We need all the good nurses we can get,” Virgil huffed, shrugging. “Until we can get the politicians to cancel that stupid nursing education bill, good hires are gonna be rare. Sanders Hospital needs to make sure its new hires can actually do their jobs.”

“Oh,” Nurse Venzon said, pursing their lips and staring straight ahead. “Alrighty then.” The two nurses looked like pale, lanky, purple sticks as they walked down the halls.

“I’m sure you’ll be fine,” Virgil sighed, a tiny smirk he was pretty sure counted as comforting twitching on the edge of his mouth. “Like you said, you’re just starting out. Someone’s gotta show you the ropes.”

“Right,” Nurse Venzon said, nodding. The pair of nurses hugged the wall as a bed whisked past them, surrounded by residents and attendings. Nurse Venzon’s saucer sized eyes followed the bed. Their head spun around trying to see the bed all the way down the hall. Virgil’s smirk grew. The untapped excitement of a nurse fresh out of nursing school was always a treat.

“So we’re almost to Ms. Sutherland’s room,” Virgil explained, glancing at the room number behind him. “As the newbie, you’ll be stuck with grunt work. That means lab results, samples, prostate examines- well, probably not the last one with Ms. Sutherland.” Nurse Venzon nodded along to everything Virgil said. “When the doctor’s in the room, they usually control the scene, but you’re the one who’ll be with her more. But you heard all this in your orientation, so I won’t get into more details.”

“Got it,” Nurse Venzon chirped, bouncing on their toes.

“So,” Virgil huffed, crossing his arms and leaning against the wall. “Tell me about our patient.”

“But don’t you already know about her?” Nurse Venzon asked.

“I know her,” Virgil muttered. “I want to know if you do. Talk to me like you’re the expert on her and I’m the newbie.”

“Ok,” Nurse Venzon huffed, shaking out their hands. “Our patient is Natasha Sutherland, female, she/her, age fifty-two. She’s been seen at Sanders numerous times over the last few years for treatment involving her chronic back and neck pain. The pain is linked back to damage gained during her service in Iraq. A lot of her forms had St. Gemma’s insignia on them, so I believe she used to get treatment there until the VA stopped helping her. Lately the pain’s increased to a point where her usual home therapy isn’t working, so she’s opting for a surgical solution.”

“Good job,” Virgil said, pushing himself off the wall. “Let’s go meet her.” Virgil had to admit, as he padded down the hall with Nurse Venzon, a new case was as good of a break as he could get from the Nurse’s Rally. He’d been running all over the hospital, getting signatures from nurses to participate in the rally. Even though Roman was helping head up public announcement of the protest, Virgil had been interviewed enough times to last for the rest of his life. And then there were the semi-decent politicians emailing Virgil constantly about their support or ‘respectful disagreements’ with the upcoming march. Being a public figure was exhausting. How did Roman do it?

“Then how else do you suggest I relax?” a voice that sounded similar to General Leia Organa muttered through a half open door.

“Watch TV?” another voice suggested. “Maybe Grey’s Anatomy?”

“I’m in the hospital and you want to watch Grey’s Anatomy,” the first voice scoffed. “Of course.” Virgil tried not to roll his eyes when he realized that was Ms. Sutherland’s room. He knocked on the door and pulled it open completely.

“Ms. Sutherland?” he called into the room. Ms. Sutherland’s room was one of the smaller ones in Sanders, but it was big enough for her bed, the two nurses, and the chair beside the bed where her guest sat. Ms. Sutherland had close cut, traditionally masculine, sandy hair mixed with spots of gray. Her muscled arms rested on her lap. Her face had enough sharp features to cut paper, with vibrant cheekbones, a sharp tipped nose, and small lips. If Virgil was asked to pick out who he thought was a soldier out of a crowd, he would pick this woman. The person in the chair beside her looked to be a few years older, with more gray in his long brown hair. His hair was pulled into a loose ponytail. It touched the collar of his dark blue sweater and made him look like a sailor. He had the same sharp nose as Ms. Sutherland, but with softer cheeks and a pair of circular glasses dangled precariously on the edge of his nose.

“Just call me Natasha,” Ms. Sutherland huffed, waving a hand dismissively. “There’s too many Ms. Sutherland’s in my family as it is.”

“Whatever you prefer,” Virgil sighed. “My name’s Nurse Lawson, and this is Nurse Venzon. You’ll be seeing a lot of us during your stay here.” Nurse Venzon waved to Natasha.

“Nurse Lawson,” the man in the chair mumbled. He glanced up at Virgil. His eyes scanned the nurse up and down. A smile formed on his lips.

“Uh…” Virgil said. “Yep. That’s my name.”

“Hank, the little games you play with people aren’t helpful now,” Natasha sighed. The man, Hank, pushed the chair back and stood up.

“Now isn’t life strange,” Hank chuckled. “You dyed your hair since we met. I’m guessing you don’t recognize me?”

“Uh, no, sorry,” Virgil said, shaking his head. Hank chuckled, picking at the sleeves of his sweater.

“Would this jog your memory?” he asked. His bulky fingers slipped his left sleeve up, wrist out to the nurses. Long pink scars trailed up his wrists. Some were poorly healed, picked and scabbed into permanent markings, while the longest of the bunch were fainter, the mark of a doctor’s help. “The doctors at St. Gemma’s did a good job.” The memories clicked into Virgil’s head in an instant.

————————

(Years prior...)

Virgil Lawson would never understand how anyone in their right mind could have hired Remus for their maintenance staff. The man could easily have been Oscar the Grouch's long lost brother. Who escaped from prison. And then burned down Sesame Street. With every day, Virgil became more and more certain that the big brass of St. Gemma's were utter idiots.

"I mean, isn't that sort of blood more sanitary than other blood?" Remus asked. He leaned against his janitor's cart as he walked alongside Virgil. His mop dragged behind him, leaving a long wet trail on the tiled floor. "Vampires should use that blood! It's perfect for the lesbian vampires, isn't it?"

"Ok, you need to stop," Virgil grunted. Remus simply laughed and stroked his greasy mustache. Virgil kept his hands in the pockets of his black scrubs. Why the scrubs for the psychiatric nurses were black, Virgil would never understand. It made him seem less like a helpful hand and more of a grim servant of death. Not that he didn't like black, it was easily one of his favorite colors, but who's heard of black scrubs? Even Remus had a better color scheme with his dark green janitor's jumpsuit and the blue flowery logo of St. Gemma's stitched onto the chest.

"I don't see why I should stop!" Remus snorted. "You're the one who brought up vampires! I'm just suggesting places to get blood!"

"I'm not using actual blood for my vampire costume," Virgil huffed. "Do you realize how unsanitary that would be?"

"That's what I'm saying!" Remus laughed. Virgil groaned softly. He'd walked into that one, yet again.

"Unless you want Nurse Patty to throw down on you, I suggest you head off," Virgil sighed, stopping beside the third-floor elevators. "I'm heading to the psychiatry department."

"What fun awaits you there?" Remus chirped. He stuffed his mop into the bucket of murky water attached to his cart.

"Jumper watch," Virgil muttered as the elevator beeped and the doors slid open. Virgil padded to the corner of the large elevator. Remus boarded alongside him.

"Oof," Remus groaned. He leaned both elbows against the rails lining the elevator. "Details?" Virgil's guts hurt as he gave into Remus's demands. This was the most fragile moment of someone's life, and he was sharing it like it was no big deal. But what could he do? Remus was unstoppable when he wanted something. It was better to give him what he wanted. It would save Virgil a world of trouble.

"Overdose," Virgil mumbled. "Plus wrist damage. His sister found him. He's physically stable, but not emotionally."

"So you're his babysitter for the night!" Remus chuckled. "Fun times all around! You might be able to catch a few ZZZs while you're there. Your eyes are particularly dark and stormy tonight." Remus leaned over and booped Virgil's nose.

"Yeah, you try explaining to three different families that their loved one's treatment isn't working," Virgil snapped, rubbing his nose. The elevator beeped, and the doors opened up. "Now go. Not to say seeing you get chewed out by Patty wouldn't make my day, but I'm too tired to deal with that crap. Go clean the pediatric waiting room, there's always some kid vomiting in there." Virgil shoved past Remus and left the elevator.

"Whatever you say, oh dear Anxiety!" Remus chirped. He gave Virgil a melodramatic bow as the elevator slid shut.

"Don't-" Virgil snapped, but the elevator was already closed. "Don't call me that." Virgil shivered as cold air brushed past him. He rubbed his pale arms, wishing he'd grabbed his hoodie before coming up. He stalked away from the elevators and into the guts of the St. Gemma's psych department.

Most of the psych department was devoted to therapy and medication. Offices dotted the off-tan walls between informational and inspirational posters. Each office was the shiny face of the emotional dumpster fires that lurked in the long-term patient rooms beyond. Most of the offices were dark now- after all, who would schedule a session for the middle of the night? Virgil continued on, blocking out the muffled shouting that he drew closer and closer towards.

A single window looked into each of the tan rooms. In this department, patients often lacked privacy privileges. Virgil kept his gaze forward as he repeated the room's number in his head. He tried not to flinch when he heard a muffled scream bounce through the walls and when his fellow psych nurses scurried past him. He was used to the panicked screams of patients with brain damage and deep, difficult mental illness. Why should he be as jumpy as a visitor? His shoulders tightened, and he continued on.

His patient's room was towards the end of the department, near the hallway window that led to the fire escape. Naturally, bars covered the window. Virgil tried to drop his shoulders and knocked on the door.

"Come in," a familiar voice inside said. Virgil gritted his teeth, frowning, and entered. Harsh yellow lights flickered around the room. Like most of the rooms in the psychiatry department, the tan walls and white tiled floors were mostly barren. There was a TV that stood higher than any person of normal height could reach, with a matted recliner in the corner. A small stand sat beside the bed pressed against the wall. Virgil's patient, Hank Dragon (Virgil thought they were pulling his leg when he read the name), laid in the white bed, IVs trailing to his arms. His hair was a sweaty brown mess streaked with gray that reached the base of his neck. His small eyes were focused on Virgil. Had he already come down off the high caused by his medication? Was he staring off into space where Virgil conveniently stood? When Virgil moved to the side of the room, Hank's eyes followed him. Alright, he was definitely looking at him. He was also glancing at the doctor who stood by his bedside.

The doctor's black hair was smoothed back against his head with hair gel. A few dots of black paint sprinkled his doctor's coat. A perfectly straight black bowtie sat under his neck against his yellow polo. Blue rubber gloves stretched over his thin, still hands (at least he wasn't wearing those dishwasher gloves of his or, God forbid, the bowler hat). Then again, perhaps the bowtie was meant to distract patients from the wrinkled, scarred skin trailing down the left side of the doctor's face. It snuck under his collar and snaked around his face, claiming his ear and turning strains of his black hair brown. A brown eye and a golden eye scanned the numbers appearing on Hank's main monitor.

"What's up, doc," Virgil scoffed, leaning against the door with crossed arms. Dr. D looked up.

"Ah, Nurse Lawson," Dr. D sighed. "You're here."

"I'm sorry, was I not wanted at this exact moment?" Virgil laughed, grinning.

"Mr. Dragon, this is Nurse Lawson," Dr. D explained. "He'll be keeping you company, now that he's finally decided to grace us with his presence." Dr. D padded around the bed and towards Virgil. Hank's eyes followed him across the room. Virgil kept his fists from clenching as the doctor approached. "I trust you've been filled in on Mr. Dragon's medical details."

"I wouldn't be doing my job if I wasn't," Virgil huffed.

"Regardless, if you need any refreshers, you've got his board," Dr. D sighed. The board he was referring to was on the wall to Virgil's left. It was a rectangular whiteboard with various columns of information. Patient name, medication schedules, admittance, and other info. Stuck in the corner of the board were the words 'Watch- Virgil Lawson', scribbled under the medication schedule. "Goodnight, Mr. Dragon. Virgil." Virgil scooted away as Dr. D opened the door. His coat flapped behind him as the door clicked closed.

“Hank Dragon,” Virgil gasped softly as Hank slipped his sleeve back over his scars.

“What are you doing, Hank?” Natasha huffed.

“Tasha, you’ve got a great nurse taking care of you,” Hank laughed. He strolled over to Virgil and slapped his shoulder. “I can’t believe it! Virgil Lawson, treating a Sutherland kid once again!”

“Oh, are you siblings?” Nurse Venzon piped in, their wide eyes bouncing between Hank and Virgil.

“My older brother changed his last name shortly after he moved away from home,” Natasha explained. “I would like some clarification, Hank. When did Nurse Lawson treat you?”

“Well, Natasha,” Virgil said, picking at the inside of his scrub pockets. “The night after your brother’s… his, uh-”

“Hank and I don’t mince words,” Natasha sighed. “You can say attempted suicide. Words only have power when you give them that power.”

“Well, when he went to St. Gemma’s, I was assigned to his case,” Virgil explained.

“Lawson here helped my feet find solid ground!” Hank laughed, shaking Virgil’s shoulder. “Spent the whole night in my room chatting with me.”

“I see,” Natasha said, eyebrows raised. “Your help was greatly appreciated, Nurse Lawson.”

“Sorry, Tasha, I can’t get over this,” Hank chuckled, shaking his head. “We need to catch up! You know, see how our lives have gone since then!”

“I’m sort of working right now,” Virgil said, pointing at Natasha.

“Right, right,” Hank laughed, letting go of Virgil. “You got a lunch break or something? We could have lunch, my treat! You like ramen?”

“How do you think I survived nursing school?” Virgil scoffed.

“I know this ramen place, it’s not that far from the hospital,” Hank said. “We can eat there! What do you say?”

“How about we check on your sister first?” Virgil said, pointing towards Natasha. “Nurse Venzon?”

“So Natasha,” Nurse Venzon chirped, squeezing past the two men, finally given a chance to do something. “Let’s get your information updated.” Nurse Venzon’s words left Virgil’s conscious train of thought as Hank settled back into his seat. He hadn’t thought of Hank Dragon in a long time. That offer of ramen sounded a bit too good to resist.

————————

"Someone needs to teach that man some bed-side manners," Hank muttered as Dr. D closed the door to his room. His half-focused eyes trailed onto Virgil, following his every move.

"That’s just how he is," Virgil huffed. He trudged across the room and sat on the arm of the matted recliner. Hank let out a soft bark of laughter.

"The man needs to find another job, then," he muttered.

“Do you want to find something on TV or keep insulting Dr. D?” Virgil grumbled, cocking his head towards the TV.

“Dr. D,” Hank mumbled, shaking his head. “Dr. D. Doesn’t he have a name?”

“Of course he has a name,” Virgil snapped.

“Then what is it?” Hank asked. Virgil grabbed the TV remote sitting on the nightstand and flicked on the TV. America’s Funniest Home Videos popped onto the screen without sound. “Turn it off. I wanna sleep.” Hank closed his eyes and rested his head so he faced away from Virgil.

“Oh no, you don’t,” Virgil huffed, stalking around the bed. He crouched to Hank’s level and shook his shoulder. “You still have a cocktail of drugs you need to work out of your system. No sleeping for you.”

“I woke up at four this morning,” Hank sighed, turning his head to the TV. “Can’t I take a five minute nap?”

“You could try,” Virgil scoffed. He settled back on the arm of the couch. “But then I’d have to break out the airhorn.”

“There are other patients on this floor,” Hank scoffed. “You won’t wake them up.” Dang it. Even with half-focused eyes, Hank saw right through Virgil. The nurse let his mind wander as the TV played clips of crying toddlers and old ladies slipping on front porches. He’d had his fair share of sleepless nights, but being stuck in this room watching Hank would be a bit more difficult. Perhaps Virgil could ask one of the nurses to bring him some coffee. If the other nurses didn’t fear him, maybe. Remus would probably bring him coffee. On the other hand, Remus in a room with a suicidal person was a recipe for disaster.

“Are there photos?” Hank asked, not looking at Virgil.

“Considering I’m not a mind reader, you’ll have to be more specific,” Virgil huffed.

“They take photos during surgery, don’t they?” Hank asked. “For records, or something? Can I see the photos from my surgery? I’d check the results myself, but…” Hank lifted his right arm barely an inch off the bed before it fell back down. Thick bandages wrapped around his wrist.

“That’s not happening,” Virgil grunted.

“Alright,” Hank sighed. Virgil bit his tongue as questions hopped around his head. Hank didn’t need any stupid questions. All he needed from Virgil was a watching eye to keep him safe.

“I do have another request though,” Hank said.

“If it’s something that involves me leaving the room, no,” Virgil muttered.

“The new episode of Grey’s Anatomy is on tonight,” Hank said. “I thought I wasn’t going to see another one. Considering I’m still kicking, might as well watch it.”

“Now that’s something I can do,” Virgil said. He flicked through the TV channels, news stations and cartoons and ads flashing by. He settled on ABC, which was in the middle of a Grey’s Anatomy trailer. Half an hour later, the show’s theme played through the room. In a few ways, this was a good improvement to Hank’s condition. He was looking forward to something, even though it was something so small. Like Virgil always reminded himself, tough love worked. Even if it hurt.

“No way,” Remy gasped, pulling off his sunglasses for dramatic effect. “No. Way. In. Hell.”

“It’s a small world, I guess,” Virgil sighed, leaning against the counter of Remy’s little cafe. Remy’s brown satchel sat bundled on the counter beside the cash register just behind a glass tip jar. His little coffee shop name tag clung to his white shirt and a dark stain clung to his jeans (the mishaps of coffee).

“You’re drowning me with tea,” Remy chirped, an almost wicked smile spreading across his face. “So he’s here now? Not at St. Gemma’s?”

“His sister’s here,” Virgil explained. He drummed his fingers against the counter top. “He’s here to keep her company.”

“And you didn’t recognize the sister’s name when you got assigned to her or whatever?” Remy asked.

“It’s not like we exchanged contact information back then,” Virgil huffed. “Besides, his last name is Dragon, and hers is Sutherland.”

“Dragon,” a voice at the back of the little cafe scoffed. “That sounds like the name of a basement dweller with a D&D addiction.” The other person working with Remy turned around with a cup of fresh coffee in his hands. He too had an obsession with wearing sunglasses indoors, those his were circular and more like tiny mirrors attached to his face. He wore black leggings and an all-black long-sleeved shirt. A black yarn shawl wrapped around his neck, strings climbing over his shoulders.

“That’s quite the criticism coming from a dude we only know as ‘The Critic’,” Virgil scoffed, putting air quotes around the name.

“Dr. Sanders knows my name,” The Critic chuckled, grabbing a sharpie and scribbling a name onto the coffee cup.

“Yeah, cause he’s our boss,” Virgil huffed. “You can’t exactly get hired without a name. You’re the director of food services, why are you even here?”

“Exactly, Francis,” The Critic said. He strolled beyond the counter and towards the sea of seats filled with cafe customers.

“That’s not my-” Virgil snapped, but the Critic was already gone. “What does that mean? Remy, what does that even mean?”

“Whatever,” Remy chuckled. “Your order’s almost ready. You’ve got a lunch date to get to.”

“Don’t phrase it like that,” Virgil groaned, elbows on the counter, head in his hands. “This is weird enough as is. I mean, this isn’t what being a nurse is like. Most of the time, you take care of a patient and you never see them again. Now I’m supposed to go get ramen with this guy?”

“You agreed to it,” Remy scoffed.

“I agreed to it,” Virgil groaned. Remy slid a cup across the counter.

“Just relax,” Remy sighed. “If he’s a weirdo, you can pull out that kung-fu of yours and deal with him. Take a break, and enjoy the free food.” Virgil took the cup and handed over a few bills. He dropped $5 in the tip jar and stalked towards the exit.

Maybe Remy was right. Virgil had been working through lunch the past few days on the rally. Maybe this would be good for him. It was just lunch. Lunch with a stranger. Virgil should have grabbed his hoodie- things were always better with a bit of his mom’s flannel at his side.

————————

“You haven’t asked yet,” Hank said halfway through the new episode of Grey’s Anatomy.

“Asked what?” Virgil asked, glancing at the man.

“All day, people have been asking me the same question,” Hank grumbled. “‘Why’d you do it, Hank? Why’d you try to throw your life away?’” Hank gently waved his unbandaged arm in the air. “You haven’t asked me yet. Waiting for the right words to say?”

“I haven’t met many people who self harm or try to commit suicide that want people to pry into their darkest moments,” Virgil scoffed. “My job is to make sure you don’t try it again. It’s not to figure out why you did it.”

“Eh,” Hank chuckled. “That’s fair.”

“My only question is why you want to watch a medical drama when you’re literally in a hospital,” Virgil muttered, waving a hand at the TV. Hank laughed again, the same sort of soft, short bark he did before.

“You do have a sense of humor, don’t you, Nurse Lawson?” Hank chuckled. “Tasha would have said the same thing.”

“Who’s that?” Virgil asked, sliding into the body of the comforter.

“Tasha’s my little sister,” Hank explained, a tiny smile emerging. “She’s a lieutenant, fighting back ISIS and such over in the Middle East. Well, not right now. She’s finished a tour of service, came home last week.” The barely living smile slipped away. “Memory’s a little foggy. Pretty sure she found me. I think I forgot she was home again.”

“There’s always a catch in plans,” Virgil muttered. “Guess you should, you know, never try it again.”

“Heh,” Hank sighed. “You’re probably right.” The empty space in the room filled with the soft tunes of whatever indie song was playing over the surgery on TV. “I don’t think I help Tasha’s army credentials a lot.”

“That’s not how the army works,” Virgil huffed, totally unsure of his statement. “They don’t care about someone’s sibling.”

“Even if that sibling is a criminal?” Hank scoffed. Virgil’s entire body tensed. “Don’t worry, it wasn’t murder. I ran with some gangs in my past. Some time in jail sorted me out. Can you turn off the TV?”

“What, no more Grey’s Anatomy?” Virgil asked, restoring his false air of confidence.

“No one knows the full story,” Hank muttered. “Not even Tasha. She doesn't know everything I did. I just want someone to know. I'm sick of keeping everything in. It's made me sick. ” That was all Virgil needed. He flicked the TV off and hopped off the recliner. He rolled his shoulders, even though that didn’t help his terrible posture.

“Alright then,” Virgil huffed. “Spill it.”

“You want all the details?” Hank asked. “They aren’t all pretty.”

“I want the full story,” Virgil growled, glaring down at Hank. He’d do whatever Hank needed to recover. After all, he wasn’t the only person in the world burdened by all the hidden details of a life story. Virgil was in the same boat. Even if Virgil had no one to confess to, he would give Hank someone.

Virgil pushed open the door to the ramen shop. The wall beside the door was a large mural of a cartoon alligator slurping on a bowl of ramen. The words ‘Gator Noodles’ stretched over the alligator’s face. The theme song of an anime Virgil couldn’t remember played over the speakers. Servers stalked around the square pale wood tables with trays of deep bowls filled with soy sauce soaked ramen. Rich afternoon sunlight streamed through the windows facing the street. Pastel colors covered the restaurant, like Virgil was stepping into a children’s anime. Virgil’s mouth watered as soon as the bell on the door chimed and the smell of soy sauce hit his nose.

Hank sat at a booth against the wall, closest to the bathrooms. He flipped through the pages of a gray paperback book. His fingers tapped against the table to the rhythm of the song overhead. With the basics of kung-fu going through his head, Virgil approached Hank’s table. The former patient noticed Virgil before he got there.

“You came!” Hank laughed, his voice still retaining the barky laughter from that night in St. Gemma’s. Hank slid a menu into his book and stood up.

“You invited me,” Virgil muttered, suddenly feeling very out of place in his scrubs. He really, really should have changed.

“Tasha was certain you wouldn’t show up,” Hank chuckled. “Sit down, sit down.” Hank slid back into the booth. Virgil shoved himself into the other seat and quickly grabbed a menu pressed under a metal stand of sauces.

“I didn’t recognize you when I saw you again,” Hank admitted. “The purple hair threw me off.”

“Yeah, uh, I started dying it a while back,” Virgil said, self-consciously pulling at a few strains of his hair.

“Check this out,” Hank said. He pushed his book across the table. It was a gray cover with prison walls near the bottom that read ‘Locked In.’ “You’d be surprised how many criminals have written books. This is only one of the books I picked up after we met. Never was much of a book guy, but it gave me something to do.”

“Good for you,” Virgil said, nodding. He glanced around the restaurant, hoping someone would come by and take his order.

“You seem happier,” Hank remarked. He slipped his book into his lap. “Less… I dunno, dark?”

“How much do you even remember about me?” Virgil asked, squinting.

“I’ll be honest, there are parts of that night that are totally lost,” Hank chuckled. He rested one elbow on the table and waved his hand around like a joystick. “But you? You are preserved in perfect detail. I mean, you’re the first person I ever really talked to about my issues.”

“I’m someone people can vent to,” Virgil sighed, shrugging.

“I know that now, but here’s the thing,” Hank huffed, pointing at Virgil. “You did not look all that welcoming. The black scrubs you nurses wore made you look more like angels of death.”

“St. Gemma’s is idiotic like that,” Virgil sighed.

“Sanders seems to be a good fit for you,” Hank sighed. “St. Gemma’s was fine and all, had some great care and fancy techniques, but you feel more human at Sanders, you know?”

“I know,” Virgil sighed, smiling.

“There was something off about half the folks there,” Hank chuckled. “Like that doctor who did my surgery, the one with the scars on his face.”

“Dr. D,” Virgil muttered.

“Right!” Hank barked. His hands soared around him in giant windmill patterns. “It’s still a weird name, even after all these years.”

“Are you ready to order now?” a server popped out of nowhere beside the booth, notepad in hand. Finally. Virgil pointed to the miso ramen dish on the menu, while Hank ordered the shoyu ramen. The server disappeared as quickly as they appeared.

“Alright,” Virgil sighed. “The question’s been on my mind all day, and I’m pretty sure you’ve answered it by now, but- how are you doing?”

“Well, it’s been an uphill battle,” Hank admitted, resting his wild hands. “I fiddled around with medication to help me until I decided to drop it all together and try something else. I’ve been seeing a therapist once a week, probably spent enough on therapy to cover those med school bills I hear so much about. Tasha’s been a big help too.” Virgil nodded softly. His insides churned. Even talking to him as a patient was easier than this. How was he expected to respond? Virgil just tried to settle his insides and make the ramen cook faster.

————————

“I’ll be fair, I’m not a storyteller,” Hank sighed, staring at the ceiling. “Most of this probably won’t make sense. Should I start at the beginning?”

“It’s your story,” Virgil muttered. Hank closed his eyes, taking deep breaths. For a moment, thoughts of Hank falling asleep and not waking up flooded Virgil’s head. But Hank opened his eyes again and started telling the story.

“I wasn’t a poor kid growing up,” Hank explained. “My family had cash, enough to live in one of the nicer parts in this city. Tasha was born a year after me, so we basically grew up together. I think my parents had the idea that I’d join the military out of college, maybe be a Navy guy like my dad. Tasha was always more like him, though. I took after Mom. More domestic, kinda, since I liked cleaning and cooking and whatnot. God, I loved cooking. Loved running around the kitchen. Didn’t make me a popular kid, though. Tasha and I really just had each other in school. She was the one who stood up to people for me.” Virgil couldn’t hide a little grin. After all, he’d been like that too- knitting and stitching and playing with whatever scraps of cloth he could find in his free time. But when was the last time he knitted something?

“When I started high school, Tasha was only in the eighth grade,” Hank continued.

“So you didn’t have any friends?” Virgil finished the thought.

“Right on the nose,” Hank sighed. “For the first part of the year, at least. Without Tasha, I didn’t know what to do with myself. No one talked to me after the first day. Eventually I made a friend, a guy I thought was a loner like me. Other guys like us migrated towards him. If you were a weirdo that everyone ignored, you had a place in our little group. You lost your mom and you’re angry at everyone around you? Come join us, we’re gonna drink on the beach. Everyone insult you for bad grades? Grades don’t matter when you’re skateboarding down the street. That’s right, I was a skater boy.” A dull ache swirled through Virgil. The ache had been with him since he graduated nursing school and got his job at St. Gemma’s. It was that ache that discovered St. Gemma’s, in a convoluted way. “I was an absolute idiot in high school.”

“Most people are,” Virgil muttered.

“That’s fair,” Hank admitted. “I think I took the cake, though. Most high school idiots stayed out past curfew or went to a few crazy parties. Meanwhile, my friends and I decided to get initiated into a gang of heartless little- like i said, stupid.”

“These guys were the only friends you had, right?” Virgil asked. “I can see anyone getting themselves into that situation. Doesn’t make you stupid.” Something clawed at Virgil’s chest. He ignored it for the moment.

“I was ruining my life and I didn’t even know it,” Hank scoffed. “Even after Tasha got to high school, I was long gone. I was out all night doing drug deals and pushing people around and playing with stolen guns. I stopped getting bullied. I thought I found people who cared about me. I got pretty good at running from the cops. I was having fun.” Hank’s good hand moved towards his bandage. Virgil grabbed his wrist and set Hank’s arm back to his side, gripping his wrist just a bit too tight. The arm was limp in Virgil’s grip.

“Don’t mess with your bandages, ok?” Virgil sighed. “We need to let them heal.”

“Yeah, yeah,” Hank huffed, squeezing his eyes shut. “It took me till after high school, when Tasha was just getting ready to graduate from West Point, to snap out of it. Ya see, that friend of mine dragged me into a kidnapping. It was some kid, not that much younger than I was when I joined. He said the kid was just collateral, some junkie owed us cash or whatever. He had nothing to do with anything, he didn’t deserve to get hurt. I got out of there as soon as I could, and I dialled 911. Heh, imagine what that operator was thinking. ‘Yes, hi, I would like to report a kidnapping. I just kidnapped a child and would like to return him please.’” Hank let out a bark of laughter. “I don’t think I said that exactly, but something like that.”

“Geesh,” Virgil groaned.

“I sat out there, waiting for the cops to show, and when they did, I brought them in,” Hank explained. “The guy I spent all of high school with, thought he was my best friend, he pulled a gun on me. Got shot in the shoulder for his troubles. Since I helped find the kid, I got some deals, so I got sent to a different prison than my friend and a shorter sentence. My parents stopped talking to me after that, which I honestly deserved. Tasha was the only one who stuck around. She’s too good for me.” Scenarios danced through Virgil’s head. Hank sitting in jail, Hank getting a gun pointed at him, Hank’s fear at his friend, Virgil’s fear at his friend- no, what was he doing? He was making things about himself. That wasn’t right!

“When I got out of jail, Tasha helped me rebuild my life,” Hank sighed. “She let me stay at her house, paid me to take care of the place when she was deployed. Since I had a gang out for my blood, I didn’t leave the house much. It was me and my thoughts all the time.”

“A horrible idea, really,” Virgil muttered.

“You said it,” Hank chuckled. “I didn’t have a schedule to follow anymore, so I just slunk around. I was a burden to Tasha. I’d ruined my life, and I couldn’t fix it. I couldn’t get a job, couldn’t get a place of my own. I’ve done a lot of bad things, but I couldn’t do anything about it. The only option for me was to remind myself of how badly I’d screwed up and how horrible I was.”

“You feeling regret is a good thing,” Virgil huffed. “It means you know you made mistakes. It means you aren’t that horrible.”

“Not sure how true that is,” Hank muttered.

“I’m serious,” Virgil grunted, crossing his arms. “How many people would have the courage to call the cops on themselves?” Hank’s gaze trailed between his hands, opening and closing his fists.

“Maybe,” Hank sighed. “I still took my sister’s cash. I wasted away in her house, ordering fast food and binge-watching TV all day. The few times I left were for groceries or with Tasha. She wouldn’t give up on me. So I gave up on myself.” Silent words of understanding and empathy entered Virgil’s head. Memories of mirrored emotions fluttered past. They both sat in the dim hospital room, each thinking different, but depressingly similar thoughts.

“I don’t think there’s much I can do to help,” Virgil admitted. “That’s a lot to unpack.”

“You let me tell my story,” Hank sighed.

“I’m also staying with you,” Virgil declared. “You’ve got two people who aren’t willing to give up on you now. Your sister, and me.”

“A horrible idea, really,” Hank chuckled, shaking his head.

“Well,” Virgil huffed, throwing his hands in the air. “It sucks to suck, I guess.” Hank’s mouth twitched. Virgil’s shoulders flew to his ears as Hank let out a loud bark of laughter. His chest heaved, his laughter making him bounce on the bed. For the first time in a while, Virgil showed a genuine smile. It was tiny and barely visible, but it was there, without sarcasm or anger or fear.

“After all that, he still sang Happy Birthday?” Hank laughed, stirring his ramen with a chopstick.

“They jacked up his painkillers,” Virgil scoffed. “He was out of it. Logan never sings, ever.” Virgil took a bite of his ramen. He really hoped he was eating normally.

“These friends of yours sound great!” Hank declared, taking a large bite out of his ramen. Noodles clung to his chin, but he wiped them away and let them plop onto the table.

“They’re tolerable,” Virgil said, smirking.

“They’re loyal, from the way you talk about them,” Hank said through a mouthful of noodles. He swallowed, then said “If I had found friends like that as a kid, I probably would have turned out better.”

“Alright, they’re great,” Virgil admitted, shaking his head. “If Roman heard me say that, his ego would grow ten sizes too big.” Virgil stabbed at his ramen. Thoughts danced on the tiny ripples in the soy sauce. He might as well tell Hank. He kept gushing about Virgil changing his life, so he probably wouldn’t get laughed at. “You keep saying I changed your life, but I’m thinking you changed mine too.”

“How?” Hank asked, glancing between Virgil and his ramen.

“The people I was with were toxic,” Virgil explained. “I wasn’t in a good place. I was trapped at St. Gemma’s in the same way you were trapped with that old friend of yours, and your sister’s house.”

“The house is less of a trap now,” Hank chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck. “I still live there, but it’s a lot happier.”

“I thought the others were my friends, but…” Virgil sighed. “As you were talking, I realized they weren’t good for me. I was dying. It’s what drove me to join Sanders, in the end.” Hank’s bark of laughter ripped through Virgil’s ears.

“Nice to know we both made a difference,” Hank chuckled.

“I need to head back,” Virgil sighed, slipping out of the booth. “Thanks for the ramen.”

“Thanks for talking to me!” Hank laughed, scrambling out of the booth. He held his hand out to Virgil. “It really was great to see you.”

“I’ll probably see you again, considering I’m on your sister’s case,” Virgil said. He gritted his teeth and shook Hank’s hand. Awkward awkward awkward! Why was his hand all loose and weird?

“Yeah,” Hank said, nodding. Virgil shot Hank a two-fingered salute and, checking his pocket for his phone, strolled towards the exit of Gator Noodles. The anime music ringing through his head finally stopped. Virgil tugged at the collar of his scrubs and sighed. It really wasn’t the worst lunch ever. It was rather nice, if Virgil was being honest. But what it really was was a reminder- a reminder of what Virgil had escaped. He let out a long, deep breath. He stuck his hands into his pockets and started on his walk back to Sanders Hospital.

————————

(Years prior to Hank Dragon and Virgil Lawson’s first meeting…)

Virgil’s fellow nursing graduates screamed around him as their hats flew into the air. Virgil only tossed his a little bit above him- he didn’t want to lose the memento of all his hard work. The end of nursing school. The day had finally arrived. His graduating class hugged the people around them, sharing high fives and cheers. Virgil was perfectly happy to stand there, not touching anyone, and fix the hat back on his head.

His classmates swarmed towards the stands where their families waited, cheering for their kids and siblings, sharing the accomplishment. Virgil padded the opposite direction, towards his now former university. He had no one in the stands for him. His family was back in Atlanta, waiting for him to drive home. It wasn’t like Virgil wasn’t a bit annoyed his mom couldn’t come to his graduation. She’d been there for all his other major events. Still, it couldn’t be helped. His mom had so many backed-up sessions at the tattoo shop, she couldn’t drive down to Florida now. That was honestly preferable. Now that he was done with school, he could finally go home. He could find a job in Atlanta (after all, he’d gotten nursing licenses for both Georgia and Florida, just in case), stay with his mom until he found the right apartment, and start his life. And that was, quite frankly, terrifying.

Virgil paused underneath a tree thick with large, green leaves. He shuffled under his robes and pulled his phone out of the pocket of his dress pants. Sure he wasn’t supposed to have the phone during graduation, but what if someone called needing something? He leaned against the tree and dialed his mom’s number. He looked into the leaves above as the phone rang and, for a few moments, his anxiety was lifted.

“Hello?” someone asked on the other end of the call.

“Hey Mom,” Virgil said. “I didn’t fail nursing school, it seems. I’m not sticking around for all the kissing and crying and whatever. Once I get some stuff from my apartment, I’ll start heading home.”

“Who is this?” the voice asked.

“Uh…” Virgil stammered. “Virgil? Your son?”

“You’re her son?” the voice gasped. “She had a son?”

“Wait, you aren’t Mom,” Virgil huffed. Something churned in his stomach. “Who is this?”

…

no.

…

No.

…

No no no no NO NO NO NO NO NO-

He was burning underneath those itchy, itchy robes. Everything hurt, everything was too much, the world was too much. The grass stabbed his feet, the tree ran daggers down his stiff, burning shoulders. He wasn’t sure when he sat down. His hat fell off. His tears hadn’t come yet- even in his worst moments, the tears were always the last thing to show up- but the stabbing, choking sound coming out of his throat was enough for now.

This wasn’t happening. It couldn’t be happening. Not now, not when he wasn’t there, oh God he wasn’t there, how could he not have been there, he should have been there!

“This graduation had become much more interesting,” someone muttered. “It seems the joy of the moment has become too much for you.” Virgil didn’t bother opening his eyes. He stayed curled into himself, trying not to suffocate. “In case you’re too panicked to fully process that, that statement was sarcastic. Let’s try to breath, shall we? Maybe then I can understand if what you need is a few tissues or an ambulance.” Virgil’s hand flew out, dismissing whoever stood beside him. He didn’t need someone poking their nose into this. He couldn’t even say what it was. Words wouldn’t come out of his mouth.

“It may not be clear to you,” the stranger huffed. “But I am trying to help you. If you can’t talk, then I’ll figure things out the best I can. We’ve got a phone here-”

“Don’t touch that!” Virgil roared, eyes flying open. A black gloved hand was reaching for the phone at Virgil’s side. Virgil grabbed the phone and held it to his chest. He finally looked up at the stranger trying to help him. Scars ran down run side of his face, illuminated by the sun poking between the leaves. It looked like someone had taken a torch to half this person’s body.

“So you can speak,” the stranger sighed. They crouched to Virgil’s level. Their heterochromatic eyes tried to stay level with Virgil’s. “I am sorry to have upset you further. Perhaps I could have a name?” Virgil’s fists rested against his forehead, pressing into his skull as the tears, the late-comers they were- finally decided to show up.

“Virgil,” Virgil choked out, still sobbing.

“Virgil,” the stranger said. Virgil’s name rolled off his tongue. “Like Dante’s guide through the inferno. Poetic. You were the only one to go this way when the caps flew. I can only assume that whatever happened, it’s a new development. Since no one else seems to have noticed your distress, I suppose you’ll need my help.”

“You can’t help,” Virgil snapped. “I don’t even know you.”

“Then let’s change that,” the stranger sighed. He put his hand to his chest. “You may call me Dr. D, or simply D for now.”

“What-” Virgil stammered through his sobs. “That’s not a name.”

“I don’t entrust my name to many, so that is what I go by,” Dr. D huffed. He settled onto the grass in front of Virgil. “Now then, Virgil. Would you like someone to talk to?”

————————

Taglist-

@watchoutforthefanfics @moonlight22oa @purelyreblogstsedition

[a-simple-imagine]

Queen Material - Chapter 2

Synopsis: It’s your day off and you just want to spend the day alone, doing one of your favourite things but things don’t always work out the way we want especially if the king is involved

Pairing: Valkyrie x Asgardian!fem!reader

Words: 2.7k+

TRIGGER WARNING - Alcohol use/reference 

The conversation may be lingering in your brain but you didn't put much thought into her actual words. They were merely just the ramblings of a very drunk newly appointed king. Even if you did take her seriously, you had no clue what she actually meant anyway and you weren't likely to ask for clarification. You wondered if she told everyone her actual name when she was drunk. Was that even her name? It seemed rather odd that she would just blurt it out to a random barkeeper but they say being intoxicating effects one's filter. Thankfully today you were taking some time off so you wouldn't have to face the awkwardness of seeing the king in your bar. That was Kyle's problem today. You were gracing the local Asgardian markets with your presence instead. Enjoying the warm sun that peaked through the clouds in the sky as you browse the multicoloured stalls. You loved coming here; so much so that most of the venders knew you by name. You would also make a game out of spotting Midgardians among the people. They were always the ones making fools of themselves. For some reason, first-time visitors always came with the notion that Asgardians can't speak the same language so they usually go around shouting simplified English. You could also tell by the way some judged what they saw, Midgardians have a bit of a nasty streak but so does every race of people. They deem themselves as greater which wasn't true but nobody ever fought them on the matter. You check your list as you hunt down the final ingredients you needed for your dinner tonight. You liked to make your meals from scratch using fresh local ingredients. That hadn't changed since Asgard. "Good day, Mrs Pearson. How are you doing?"

Mrs Pearson was an older woman with a heart of gold. She was always trying to help out those in need and you highly respected her for it. She also grew some of the best veggies around.

"I'm doing pretty well, thank you for asking Y/N. What are you after today?"

Your lips curl into a smile as your eyes drift over the assortment of products for sale. "I'll take a bunch of celery and just two garlic cloves, please."

"What are you making today?" She wonders as she collects the ingredients and puts them into small clear bags.

"A lasagna," You answer, taking the items from her and adding them to the satchel resting on your hip. "I've never made one before but the recipe seems easy enough." You shrug. Can't be any harder than the food you made back in Asgard, right? Although back then you never really spent much time in the kitchen. Your love for cooking hadn't come until you found yourself looking for things to do on Midgard to occupy your free time. At first, you mainly made the popular dishes of your people but before too long you branched out when you bought your first Midgardian cookbook. The recipes were easy enough to follow. "It's a simple pasta dish with mince and vegetables."

"Can't say I've ever tried it but it sounds delicious," She wore a soft smile as you hand over the money. "I hope you enjoy."

"If all goes well, I'll be sure to make it for you and your husband sometime." You suggest.

"That would be lovely"

One last glance over her wears, you notice an array of jars. Reaching over to grab the one filled with red. Inspecting the label. "Since when did you sell... jam?"

"I thought I'd try my hand at making it, Roger said it tasted great. You're free to have one if you like; consider it a gift."

You roll the jar between your palms for a few seconds before shaking your head. "No, I don't mind paying," Rooting through your pocket in search of loose change, you hand it over. "Have a nice day, Mrs Pearson, say hi to Mr Pearson for me."

"I will Enjoy your lasagna." With a gentle smile, you turn on your heel and walk away. Pulling out the crumpled up checklist, you make sure you have every ingredient before heading home.

It was around mid-afternoon when you finally slumped through the door to your humble abode. it was a relatively small one-bedroom bungalow. Hanging up your jacket on the rack by the door and slipping off your shoes before marching straight into the kitchen. The book said this should take at least two hours to cook, you were rapidly losing daylight and you hadn't even started yet. Rushing around the kitchen, you follow the step by step instructions to ensure your dish is perfect before setting it in the oven. The sun had already set by the time you fall onto the couch to wait for the meal to cook. The next few hours are spent flicking through the channels on them until you find a show that's even a little bit interesting. Interrupted by the sound of the chicken timer you spring into action more than ready to devour whatever came out; good or bad. At least it smelt great. It has to be around nine when you finally settle down at the kitchen table with a big chunk of lasagna sat on your plate. About to dig in when your phone vibrates against the table. You're surprised to see Kyle's name pop up on the screen and a groan leaves your lips.

"This better be good, Kyle?"

"Hey, Y/N. You remember how you said I could close up early today?"

"Yes, you have some family thing or something. What's the problem?" You wonder. The business was in good standing so closing early wouldn't make much of a difference but you had already said yes, why was he asking again?

"It's just... I can't get the last person to leave. They're just hunched over the bar, refusing to leave." That's it? That's his big problem? This isn't the first time this happened, definitely isn't the last but it's not exactly an emergency. Kyle has worked with you long enough to know what to do.

"Seriously? You should be used to this by now."

"This is different."

"Different how? Just get them out." You shrug, leaning back in your seat. Eyes flickering to the food just waiting to be eaten.

"I can't just kick them out," he urges and you can't help but roll your eyes.

"Why?"

"Because it's the king. I don't think I'm allowed to just tell her what to do." You sigh loudly. Of course, it was the King. Why couldn't things just be simple? "Hello? Y/N?"

"Can you stay until I get there?" You question quietly.

"Yeah."

"Then I'll be there in five," You hang up on him before he gets a chance to respond. Taking a forkful of lasagna into your mouth, you push the plate aside. Guess it'll have to wait until later. It did taste good though, worth the wait. You grab your jacket, slip back into your shoes and walk to your bar. Luckily, you didn't live that far away so it wasn't a long walk. You push the door but when it doesn't open you knock a few times and wait for the door to swing open to see Kyle staring back.

"Where is she?" You ask quietly as you barge past him spotting the woman slumped over the bar. It was a sad sight. The king of Asgard so drunk she's on the edge of consciousness. In all this time you don't think you've ever seen her like this. She had a high tolerance so this is very out of character, "Is she asleep?" You turn back to him.

"I don't know,"

Leaning in close, you inspecting her carefully. She reeked of the alcohol she'd probably been drinking all day. You lay your hand on her shoulder. "Are you okay, my king?" You watch her arms shake as she tries to push herself up off the bar with a low deep groan. You're not sure what to do with her. You can't exactly leave her here all night fermenting in her own juices. The palace which was pathetic in comparison to the golden palace it used to be - it was more like a pretty big house - was pretty far from here. That only really left one option that didn't take her to the inn. "Can you walk?" You ask softly backing away from her. The brunette nods, slowly standing up from her seat. Stumbling in the processes, you leap forward to catch her. She was heavier than expected but you could support her. "You can go home, Kyle. I got this."

"Okay," he disappears behind the bar. "What are you gonna do with her?"

"She's not gonna get far like this so maybe take her back to my place," You suggest. Kyle reappears, backpack slung over her shoulder.

"Shouldn't you take her back to her place?" He argues, heading for the door. "Doesn't she have like guards or people who'll be looking for her? She is the king after all."

You didn't really know what to say to that so you just dismiss him with a wave of your hand. He was right. Shouldn't she have people with her? Someone whose supposed to keep an eye on her or at least guards to protect her? She was always alone when you saw her at least until she finds someone to bed. Valkyrie mumbles something incoherent as you basically drag her out of your establishment; wishing she'd actually carry some of her own weight because it felt like she was putting it all on you. In the end, you do take her back home with you, dropping her down on your bed. She snuggles into your pillow as you throw a blanket over her, making sure she's laying on her side; you bend down so you're stood eye level. "Are you going to be okay? You want some water?"

"Mhmm." Collecting her water, you return to a passed out woman drooling on your pillow. You leave the glass on the bedside table and watch her for a moment. For some reason, you felt on edge having her here like this was a huge mistake. You hardly even knew the woman so what right did you have to take her home? This was basically kidnapping. You imagine this won't be the first time she wakes up in a strangers bed though. And it wasn't like she was all that capable of actually walking home. Would she be mad that you brought here? It was your duty as one of her subjects to help. With a heavy sigh, you collect a blanket and some pillows. It was only right that you spend the night on the couch. You warm up your dinner, check on her one last time before settling in for the night.

You awake to beams of sunlight streaming through the blinds. An ache in your neck which you imagine came from your makeshift bed. For a second the entire world is at peace but then you remember the woman asleep in your bed. Throwing off the blanket, you make your way to the bedroom. Opening the door a crack to peer inside. It was dark and filled with gentle snores. It was sweet seeing her so calm. Not shoving glass after glass down her throat. It dawned upon you that you've probably never interacted with a sober Valkyrie. Leaving her to sleep, you get ready for the day and make yourself an omelette for breakfast. Time moves pretty quickly and as you're placing the ceramic plate on the drying rack a loud thud hits your ears. It came from the bedroom. Panic set in as you barging in unannounced no less. "Are you alright, my king?"

She's... gone? Your brows furrow as you walk further into the room only to discover the woman lying face down on the floor. With wide eyes, you rush to her side. "What happened? Are you hurt?"

"Where... am I?" Her voice is low and heavy with sleep. She rubs both eyes gently and follows up with a yawn; which in turn makes you yawn.

"My house," You reply softly. The woman meets your eyes but remains silent. You can't figure out what's going on in her head but you imagine she's trying to process what brought her to this moment. That's what you'd be doing.

"Did we...?" Your brow knits together before realisation dawns across your face.

"What? No. I- I uh... slept on the couch." You explain quickly. "You practically passed out in my bar so I brought you back here and you immediately fell asleep. Nothing else, I can assure you."

You expect a joke. A cheesy remark but her face remains blank as she scrambled to her feet. "Well, Thanks then I guess."

"Uhm it was no trouble at all. I was happy to help," you plaster on a smile to accompany your unconvincing words. "Would you like something to eat? It's lunchtime so I can make you- I dunno, A grilled cheese? I can make a great grilled cheese" You ramble. "The key is the bread you use and then you mix in like a couple of different che-"

"Yeah, I don't care, make whatever."

You purse your lips before turning on your heel. "Okay I didn't know if you wanted to shower but I left some towels on the dresser and a change of clothes just in case. Oh and if you need painkillers or anything they're in the cabinet above the sink. Just come out whenever you ready."

You leave her alone. Going off to prepare the grilled cheese you had so expertly described. By how long it was taking her she either took you up on the offer to shower or she had passed out again. Hopefully, the first one because you had to leave for work soon. When she finally emerges, she had changed into the clothes you left out and she's pressing a towel to the ends of her hair.

"For you, my king," You place the grilled cheese down on top of the dining room table. It smelt so good you regret not making another one for yourself but you don't have time to start now. You begin to clean the kitchen utensils you used as silence settles in the room. "If you'd like something to drink, I have a variety of juices I can offer or water if you'd prefer?"

"This is really good." You face the other woman and can't help but smile at the compliment. The best thing about cooking was cooking for others. You didn't have a lot of friends and you spent most of your time working so you hardly ever got the chance.

"Thank you."

"Do you like cooking?" Valkyrie asks with a mouth full of cheese.

"Sure," you shrug, turning back to the dishes. Swirling the sponge around the already clean plate. "It helps me relax, I guess. I don't really get a lot of free time but when I do I like to try out new recipes and ideas. I purchase cookbooks online, I think the amazon maybe my favourite thing about Midgard."

As you finish up, you watch a very spaced out Valkyrie for a few seconds before disappearing to collect your things for work. She's still sat there when you return but with an empty plate this time.

"So, I kinda have to head to work now. I hope that's okay?" You don't know why you're asking. It just felt rude to rush out when you have the king sat at your dining table.

"Right- I didn't mean to impose." Valkyrie spins in her chair to face you. You give her an unsure smile.

"Not at all, it was a pleasure to have you." You semi lie. "I just have to, you know, work for a living."

Valkyrie collects her things from the bedroom as you wait by the door. It's weird. Almost feels like you've upset her by kicking her out. But you try not to dwell on it as you shift your weight from one foot to the other. What is taking so long? She emerges from the bedroom, ready to go. "Uh... You're the barkeep right?"

You nod. Did she just not remember your name or was barkeep just what she wanted to call you? After a flurry of confusion crosses her face you come to the conclusion that she just doesn't remember. "Y/N."

"Right- I knew that. Thanks for food and clothes, Y/N."

She leaves first and you follow after, making sure to lock the door on the way out. With a final goodbye, Valkyrie turns right while you turn left.

PREV // NEXT

Tagging per request: @iconicwlw

[multifandomficsx]

Snowman (Loki X reader)

Loki x reader (18+) 

warnings: Smut,Smut,Smut, thigh riding, Loki is kinky

hey guys, this is a new Loki oneshot please show it some love. you can also find it here: https://www.wattpad.com/user/SamHartwell and https://www.quotev.com/samhartwell my fics and stories get post there first so if you want to read the new chapter first then I suggest following me there as well!!! anywho enjoy!

Loki had a flair for the dramatic so when his current girlfriend of a year told him that she'd be performing at Jazz at Lincoln Center he had to make an appearance. She had recently dropped a Christmas album and it had been widely received by Jazz critics all over the country and it was only natural that she had scored a gig at one of the most prestigious performance centers in NYC. 

He watched the snow fall outside as they were only a few weeks out from Christmas. A black coffee from Starbucks was the only thing keeping his hands warm from the frigid cold. The lights strung up in the trees really made everything picturesque and perfect and the way the snow clings to the trees created intricate works of art. 

(Y/N) had made close friends with Thor and the rest of the avengers. Loki couldn't help but brag about her to every single one of them and the fact that they were all here tonight to see her made him glow with pride. Although (Y/N) offered free seats, Tony bought the tickets for everyone anyways. 

"I'm so excited to see (Y/N) perform tonight! Her album has so many bops." Natasha said as she took off her coat and scarf.

" My Brother here sure knows how to pick the best maidens." Thor laughed as he slapped his brother on the back. 

Loki chuckled softly before shrugging. " I guess so" 

Thor pulled him aside from the group under the guise of going to coat check to grab something he forgot in his jacket. 

" Oh come on, that's all you can say? You're quieter than usual tonight brother. All you do is talk about her. What's going on?" Thor asked 

" I don't have to tell you anything." 

" Loki stop, is something happening between you and Lady (Y/N)?" 

  He sighed and pulled a small box out of his pocket. 

"Oh Odin, You're going to ask her to marry you? Why didn't you say something! That is great news!" He yelled in excitement.

" You oaf be quiet. Yes. But lately we haven't been seeing each other that often because she's off either in the studio or doing press shoots and I feel like I'm... not good enough for her."

" She loves you Loki, you can see it in her eyes every time she looks at you. You two are made for each other. Just ask (y/n) and everything will be-"

"Just ask me what?" She asked from behind both of them. 

Both whipped around to find (y/n) standing there in a gorgeous floor length dress that sparkled green. It complemented her body perfectly and she had a dark red makeup look to pull everything together. 

" Are you both gonna stand there with your mouths open or are you gonna say anything." She laughed.

That laugh. The one that rang like church bells in his ears and sounded like the purest thing in the world.

"You're absolutely stunning my queen." Loki said before going up to her and planting a prolonged kiss on her red tinted lips. Her hands tangled in his tie before she pulled away from him.

" Mmm Loki, you're really trying it tonight." She said giggling with a smirk on her face. " I had to see you before the show even if I'm breaking a few rules." "Well I am truly honored." 

"(Y/N)! What are you doing out here! Come backstage we have to make sure your mic is leveled." Her manager barreled out of the stage door. " And who is this? You know you're not supposed to talk to the public unless it's coordinated. We can't have a press scandal." 

" Josh this is Loki my boyfriend." 

"Oh the boyfriend. Well Loki, nice to meet you. (Y/N) we have to go backstage and make sure everything is going according to plan. Maybe have a drink before we start." 

"Ahh yeah. Sure. Sorry baby I'll see you after the show." She said before planting a kiss on his cheek and leaving.

Time skip

"Alright I have one song left for you and it's not on the regular album so you all haven't heard it yet. It will be on the deluxe re-release so hang tight. This song was actually the first one I wrote but I scraped it because it went through so many rewrites. It was originally called reindeer but it was just the worst thing I think I've written..." 

She had the crowd laughing and wrapped around her finger. Loki smiled at her but she didn't seem to acknowledge him once. He wanted to be apart of this and be there for her. 

"This one is called Snowman." 

The band started up into a smooth jazz/pop tune.

"Don't cry snowman, not in front of me Who will catch your tears if you can't catch me, darlin'? If you can't catch me, darlin'? Don't cry, snowman, don't leave me this way A puddle of water can't hold me close, baby Can't hold me close, baby I want you to know that I'm never leaving Cause I'm Mrs. Snow, 'till death we'll be freezing Yeah, you are my home, my home for all seasons So come on let's go Let's go below zero and hide from the sun I'll love you forever where we'll have some fun Yes, let's hit the North Pole and live happily Please don't cry no tears now, it's Christmas baby My snowman and me My snowman and me Baby Don't cry, snowman, don't you fear the sun Who'll carry me without legs to run, honey? Without legs to run, honey? Don't cry, snowman, don't you shed a tear Who'll hear my secrets if you don't have ears, baby? If you don't have ears, baby? I want you to know that I'm never leaving 'Cause I'm Mrs. Snow, 'till death we'll be freezing Yeah, you are my home, my home for all seasons So come on let's go Let's go below zero and hide from the sun I'll love you forever where we'll have some fun Yes, let's hit the North Pole and live happily Please don't cry no tears now, it's Christmas baby My snowman and me My snowman and me Baby"

(Y/N) smiled softly at Loki as she finished the song and wished the crowd a good night.

All he could think about was the way she sang every phrase and the passion that came out of her voice. The way she pressed up against the mic stand and sang closely and intimately with the mic. The way her eyes closed and nose scrunched up as her voice soared.

She came out pretty quickly after the show was over and ran straight to Loki capturing him a large hug.

" I thought you had some press interviews to do after the show?" 

"I canceled those, I missed you." She said whispering the last part suggesting at something else.

" I missed you too my dove," he fiddled with the ring in his pocket " um (y/n) you know I love you and-" 

"Yes."

"What?"

"I said yes. I will marry you Loki." 

"How did you know?" 

"I found the ring a few weeks ago I was just waiting for you to ask me." 

"Bloody Brilliant. You never cease to amaze me." He said before leaning in. 

"Now let's get out of here before I take you in a broom closet."

(Y/N) blushed fiercely before retaliating " Actually I might like that." Now it was Loki's turn to flush before ushering her out of the concert hall.

As soon as the door closed behind them their hands were all over each other's bodies and somehow in the process (Y/N) had been pinned up against the wall. She called out his name as if it was the only word in her vocabulary begging for him to continue.

The kiss was sloppy and needy but passionate and loving. His hands ran from her thighs up to her hips where his Icy fingertips latched on, seemingly holding on as if his life depended on it. He loved the feeling of her skin, smooth and soft to hold. Her hands tangled in his hair lightly tugging at it while slowing grinding into him knowing it drove Loki absolutely mad. Breaking the kiss he pressed his nose against her neck breathing heavily, ghosting his lips over the delicate skin there.

" If you keep doing that you'll have to pay for it." 

"Then make me pay."

He growled in response before hoisting her up wrapping her legs around his waist and carrying her into the bedroom as if it were nothing. She landed on the bed with a thud and Loki came not to long after giving her no time to Recuperate.

"What am I gonna do with you? For the past 3 months I've barely seen you and tonight you're practically begging for me." 

"Loki I'm yours."

He wouldn't admit it but that phrase gave him shivers and made his cock harder than it's ever been.

" you are mine. Not that managers, not The presses. Mine. And only mine."

"Only yours, my king."

His mouth crashed into hers with a fury she hadn't seen since the day they first had sex. She melted into him flinging her arms around his neck before sliding her tongue across his bottom lip. He pulled away causing her to whine.

" I'm in control tonight, you don't get to call the shots."

His lips then attacked her neck knowing exactly where to kiss, suck, bite and lick to have her squirming. Her dress has slid off in the process of getting her to the bedroom and was discarded somewhere in the hallway. The collarbone was always the way to get her submissive and boy she just fell into a pool of whimpers as he got to it. With a smooth unclasping the bra was gone. (Y/N) shivered at the sudden cold air and moved to press up against Loki as a heat source. But sooner or later his shirt came off and her hand ran over his fit upper body. He was perfectly lean in all the right places and muscular in all the others.

In one swift movement he put her on top as he sat with his back against the headboard. (Y/N) fit perfectly straddled in his lap.

" I want you to get yourself off on my thigh." He said starkly causing her to blush a deep red. " It seems like the only fitting punishment and after I'm going to fuck you so hard you won't even think about anyone else."

(Y/N) just nodded and made quick work of her panties and straddling over his thigh. The moment she started rocking her hips was the moment of no return. Embarrassed of how turned on she was getting the friction between his pants and her womanhood was heavenly. He watched her as she became unraveled above him. They way she threw her head back in pleasure and the soft moans and whimpers kept him hard. She suddenly felt pressure build in her lower abdomen and she knew her release was coming.

"Loki, I'm gonna..." she whines as her pace quickened. 

"You're gonna what doll? Say it."

" I'm gonna cum." She said basically screaming with pleasure.

Her toes curl and her body jerked and right before she could reach her high Loki flipped them back over.

"You thought you were going to cum before I let you? No, no. You'll cum when I tell you." He said before removing his pants and boxers.

" I want to hear your cries," he snarls, breath shallow, " I want to hear every ravished whisper."

She felt his thickness against her thigh and she bit her lip in excitement. He rubs his length between your thighs and along your very wet slit before pressing at her entrance. (Y/N) let out a surprised moan as she felt him stretching her open. Loki grips onto her hips, easing himself inside as she moans longingly, burying her face into his chest.

"Please," was all she could muster as he squeezed around him.

"My pleasure," he pulls out slowly and then pushes back in hard.

She yelps loudly, gripping onto the sheets with white knuckles. He does it again picking up speed, rattling her and the bed. His grunts turn into pants and heaving breathes. Her eyes have rolled into the back of her head as she cries out enraptured whispering his name when she's not screaming it. Her eyes flutter close as she grasps onto anything that seems like a good anchoring point.

"Open your eyes (Y/N)" he demanded before one hand grabbed your chin and turned her head back toward him.

She met his eyes watching his expression as he drove into her, making her body spasm and shake as the lightning started to return. Writhing beneath him, he came down on (Y/N), kissing her heatedly as her fingers claws mercilessly at his back. She felt him twitch and shudder inside her and they were both approaching their climactic high.

"Cum for me." And that was all (Y/N) needed to let go. Screaming in pleasure, he moans into her neck, his head dipping and nuzzling between her breasts as he released inside her.

(Y/N) whimpered, holding onto the back of his head and neck.

"I missed you." She finally said again repeating what was said earlier.