#so like i think after all events he wouldn't just sit around and settle until he reaches what he was fighting for

[enjomo-arch]

you  know  what  i  think.  i  think  that  ace's  goal  even  after  recovering  from  the  war  still  stands.  like,  his  whole  goal  before  joining  whitebeard  was  to  surpass  the  pirate  king  (  his  biological  father  )  and  even  after  challenging  whitebeard  and  eventually  joining  his  crew  ace's  goal  shifted  to  make  whitebeard  the  king  but  ace  still  aimed  for  his  own  greatness  among  all  people.  and  i'm  saying  it  as  in  -  he  still  wanted  to  achieve  his  initial  goal  while  fulfilling  what  he  promised  to  himself.  i  feel  like  ace  wants  to  become  a  yonko  or  at  least  try  to  get  in  the  position  by  becoming  stronger  than  everyone.  this  was  what  he  aimed  for  since  he  was  a  child  and  since  ace  doesn't  give  up  his  dreams  no  matter  what  even  after  the  war  and  recovery  he  wants  to  become  stronger,  so  strong  he'll  be  able  to  achieve  bigger  greatness  than  roger.

[anonymouslosersworld]

continuing the bloodline

Prompt; Mc is the last of Solomon's bloodline wouldn't a half-demon baby be cute especially if it was with a certain king. (Mc's Depravity just wants to see a specific view after all they offered once.)

Summary: Mc just wants to breed and knock up some very pretty demons.

Genre: smut (m)

Fandom: what in hell is bad

Characters; 2 out 4 Kings of hell Satan and Mammon

Warnings : Dom Mc, creampies, overstimulation, voyeurism, sub! character, m-preg just normal mc horny stuff.

Intro: Satan/Sitri/Ppyong, once told Mc that demons can't have kids on their own, for demons to have kids they would have to go to Lilith and ask for her help due to complications. But many demons just go to Earth and fuck humans because it's more compatible/easier. (this is in-game when they talk about Lilith and her role in demon society a little.)

So Mc, the last of her line looks into this topic (for research purposes, obviously) and finds out it's the demon that gets knocked up no matter the gender. Now Mc can't get the image of their favorite demon knocked up. (Not canon info)

Satan (666 words)

He understands he offered it when he got affected by the angel's blood, but he didn't think you would take him up on it. But ever since he presented the idea, you kind of took it with you. You didn't take the suggestion right away, but you had a certain look about you every time you saw Satan. You basically eye-fucked him almost all the time, but your eyes would linger around his stomach.

At first, he thought you were just fantasizing about his dick or basically just salivating over his abs. But then the touching started, and he could only describe it as oddly comforting but a little confused.

Before, during, and after you guys fucked, you would just rub his kiss marked-stomach. He was constantly asked if he had any cravings or would be inspected to see if his nips were swollen. It wasn't until the angel attacks calmed down and things were finally settling down that your actions were doubled. You were just taking him everywhere. You would pull him away from events with nobles just to do him in a separate room, shoving your tongue down his throat when he spoke to Sitri, making him cum from playing with horns and groping his cock whenever you felt like it. You were insatiable, and Satan began to put things together...eventually.

His horns were like a faucet, leaking all over his body. His hands are tied up with a makeshift tie on his headboard using his own shirt. His pink overall was shoved off of him.

His face was hot. His brain was foggy, and his eyes rolled back.

"so pretty~" He finally hears for a long while.

Your tongue takes a good, long lick of the cream that fell on his nipple from his horns. Satan's body shakes as he breathes heavily through his nose. Your body leaned over his as you continued to lick the devil's essence off his chest; after all, you need it to live.

Satan looks at you, dazed, as you sit back on his cock. He watches as you cheekily smile at him when you finally finish swallowing all of his cum.

"I'm going to make you a daddy, Satan~" You leaned back down to whisper into his ear.

"f-fuck!" The warmth wrapped around his cock was beginning to be too much, but your words made his cock burst. His thighs spread a little more. His cock practically throbbed while in you.

"You like that, baby?" You tease him as your hand presses on his stomach.

"You want a baby right here?" Satan lets out a shakey breath. '' You are the only one that I want to give my baby to." Your hands gripped the base of his horns yet again, and Satan's back arched.

Oh~" he could practically hear your smirk. "I didn't think they would get more sensitive."

Satan's head feels like it's going to explode. His mind is going a mile a minute as he keeps thinking of having a baby with you. Him being full and having a baby in him. His cock is deep inside you; he can feel your insides pulse around him. Satan feels your hips rocking, taking his cock back in and making his head dizzy. Was this why you kept fucking him over and over again? Was this why you kept his cock inside you long after you both came?

You were trying to make him pregnant.

"You'd look so beautiful with you full of me."

He whimpered in response. The tip of his cock had swollen up since you had basically promised him a baby.

He thought of his stomach swelling with your love.

a baby

"F~uugh!" Your lips bit into his neck. Your teeth are breaking his skin, and your tongue is soothing and lapping up after.

"I can't hear you, baby." Your lips moved from his neck to his ear. You take the liberty to nip the tip of his ear. "Go on, keep going."

"F-fuck a baby into me."

Mammon

You took one look at his massive tits and ass. He walks around hell in all kingdoms, claiming you are his master and claiming to be yours. Why wouldn't you think to breed the shit out of his fine ass?

He practically encourages you to be as greedy as possible and lets you touch him ALL over whenever. Something about this man makes you absolutely feral.

Maybe it's the off-the-shoulder, free-the-titties look that really did it for you. But for some reason, you loved seeing and feeling his gold-fingered claws dig into your skin or whatever was in his reach whenever the pleasure overwhelmed him.

The man's tits alone make you salivate at the mere sight, but when you mark them up with HICKIES, bites, scratches, and lick marks,.

It became the norm for Mammon to walk around Tartaros with all types of evidence on him. Mammon would walk with a spring in his step and a beam of pride whenever he even caught a reflection of the physical marks you left him in someone's eyeballs. All because you were staking your claim over him.

"I want everything," you repeated his favorite phrase to him. Both of your hands squeezed Mammon's tits as you had him underneath you. His body shivered, and his nips were swollen from you sucking them. You had taken orgasm after orgasm from him. His body was sensitive, and the remnants of chocolate on his abs clung to him. Your expert tongue had basically fucked his tits and stomach.

"It's all yours, master." The nail marks on your back stung, but you smiled at him as you took one of his fingers to your mouth. Your eyes reflected possessiveness, but your whole aura was bathed in lust. You would give Asmoudues a run for his money.

"I want all of you, Mammon." He whimpered as he felt you move against him again while the vibrator worked deeper inside him. Your ass looked amazing as you rode him. He loved the view of your ass as you rode him. You more than welcomed him to grope your ass as you gripped his thighs, leaving marks. He could feel your cum deep inside him from previous rounds.

"I-iingh, all yours; take everything. All that I am is yours."

"Have my treasure, Mammon." Your voice got a little deeper. " Let me fuck it into you. No one will have this treasure but you."

He can mostly see the back of your head but he could see a hint of a blush. He grounded his hips harder into you at the thought of you breeding him. He was already fucked out, but he couldn't help but want more. All the cum you shot him was safely kept inside him with a deep-tissue vibrator you had received as a gift from Beelzebub. The ultimate way of staking your claim over him

"y-yes, fuck yes!" he moaned loudly as he came " m-master, more" His face was red from blushing as he repeated what he said to you.

''let's make your wish a reality."

[uglypastels]

I need, FOR THE LIFE OF MEEE, a part two of your scott's sister!reader fic its SO good, maybe they go on a double date to try and make things less awkward?? I just know logan would rather have his teeth pulled out but anything for his best girl right?

-part 1---masterlist---requests-

warnings: cringe, mention of alcohol, mention of sexual activities. swearing.

I was unsure about writing this at first because, in all honesty, I wouldn't think you'd want to go on the double date either, I mean...

It was so awkward. The four of you- You and Logan, Scott and Jean- sitting opposite each other across a restaurant table, focusing more on the food rather than the conversation.

Usually, in these kinds of moments, you had Logan's handy nature to depend on, to make things a bit more interesting, but he kept both his hands above the table in the presence of your older brother, and with a psychic like Jean in your midst, not even sneaky signals were a possibility to spice up your evening.

'So, uhm-' Scott cleared his throat, 'how long have you two...' been fucking around? was probably what he wanted to say, but rather than making things even weirder, he simply left the question unfinished, open to your interpretation.

You knew he meant well. He always did. He was the best big brother you could have ever asked for, but god sometimes he just took it too far.

When he caught you in that broom closet, he could have just left it at that. Maybe yell at you for the inappropriate behaviour, fair enough. Let it soak in a bit, and give it a few days until the embarrassment of the situation finally wore off and you could look each other in the eyes again. But instead, far from it settling, he had suggested a double date.

And maybe you could have tried to say no to the idea, but from a very young age, you had learned that that was never really an option with Scott. Besides, as the night went on, you had gotten an inkling that this might have very well been your punishment. To endure this night.

'Uhm...' you thought for a moment about his question, not daring to look Logan in the eye. Even without mindreading powers, you could tell what he was thinking about- and prayed that Jean had the decency to leave those thoughts alone.

After all, you could hardly admit that it had all started with a drunken mistake of a hook-up on a rather random Friday, or was it Thursday? Monday maybe?

It had been such a blur that you couldn't even remember why you had been drinking, but all you knew was that the next morning, you woke up with a massive headache, naked in his bed. It took about ten minutes for both of you to come to the realisation of the events that had gone down and proceeded to curse your way back into your clothes while profusely admitting that it was a mistake and that it should never happen again.

Luckily, you never made a promise of it, as it would not have lasted long.

'It was Valentine's Day,' Logan grumbled out, nearly giving you whiplash from how fast you had turned to look his way as the memories cleared up with each of his words. 'With nothing else to do alone, we hung out and-'

'and things just clicked,' you rescued him, knowing that Logan was not very fond of opening up that way.

'Didn't expect you to be someone to celebrate Valentine's Day, Logan,' Scott smiled, the mockery spilling out a bit.

'I'll send you a card next year, if you'd like, bub.' Logan quipped before taking his beer up to his lips. You hid your giggle with a slight cough behind your hand. He looked over at you with a smirk pulling at the corner of his lips and in that moment, a harsh, yet funny, reality struck you.

Sitting in this little shabby restaurant opposite your big brother and his wife, this wasn't just a double date for you and Logan.

This was your first date.

Always seeking out moments to sneak out together into dark corners, you had never actually done anything that would be considered a proper "date". There were the hours you'd lay in bed, entangled in sheets, talking nonsense, stealing kisses and laughs, but besides that- and the other activities you were not trying to think about next to Jean- you had never done much else.

And looking at him at your side, sitting back in his chair, letting his hand finally fall down comfortably to find its spot on your thigh, you could certainly get used to this.

But hopefully, next time, it will be just the two of you.

the end.

thank you for reading 💗

if you enjoyed the fic, please consider reblogging and leaving a comment. or send a message via my inbox. requests are also more than welcome. 💗

[theres-a-body-here]

Daemonology: Purson

Male demon x Male!reader

Part 2

Purson sighed deeply as he tapped his claws on his throne. He liked to think of himself as a patient demon, but sometimes, he swore his followers were stupid.

You stood before him, nervously playing with your fingers.

"You stand before me to ask for…a kiss?" Purson asked, his deep voice resonating like a rumbling thunder.

"Yes, sir," you said meekly, unable to meet his fiery eyes.

Purson pinched the top of his muzzle, eyes shut as he contemplated. "I fell from heaven for this," he muttered under his breath.

Evocations don't happen often, and when they do, the devotee usually asks for riches, power, or some other vain thing. Purson was actually stumped you would waste such an event for a simple kiss.

He looked at the paper he held in his other hand, reviewing your profile. It seemed you were a devoted follower, which was certainly in your favor. Still, he couldn't help but wonder if it was worth the trouble of granting your request. After all, demons didn't just bestow their affections on anyone who asked.

But then again, maybe it wouldn't hurt to indulge you once. His red eyes finally met yours.

"Alright," Purson's deep voice boomed across the chamber as he made up his mind. "Come here, little one," he commanded, gesturing for you to step closer.

With apprehension, you approached him, feeling the heat radiating off his form as you neared his throne. He patted his lap invitingly, indicating where he wanted you to sit. Your heart raced as you climbed onto his lap.

As you settled onto his lap, Purson wrapped an arm around your waist, his sharp claws digging gently into your flesh. A shiver ran down your spine as you felt his warmth envelop you, both physically and metaphorically. He sets your profile on the desk besides the throne before focusing his attention on you.

Slowly, Purson cupped your chin in his large hand, careful not to prick you with his claws. His hot breath tickled your face as he raised your head towards his own. Gods, he truly was massive—his size alone enough to send a wave of trepidation through you. Yet despite your anxiety, there was also an undeniable thrill coursing through your veins.

He leaned in close until his lips were mere inches from yours, his eyes boring into yours. "Do you still wish for my kiss?"

"Yes," you whispered, feeling moths flutter in your stomach.

With a sudden motion, Purson leaned in and planted a quick peck on your lips. When he pulled back, he observed how your eyes were closed in bliss and your lips were parted ever so slightly, expectantly waiting for more. You opened one eye curiously, wondering why the kiss had been so brief.

"Were you expecting more?" Purson asked, feigning disdain to tease you, enjoying the way your cheeks flushed.

"No," you stammered, trying not to sound ungrateful. "It was perfect." Although it was clear that you desired more than just a brief encounter.

"I was just teasing," Purson admitted with a low rumble, patting your waist affectionately.

Once more, Purson cupped your chin tenderly in his palm and brought his lips to yours. This time, instead of pulling away quickly, he pressed his lips firmly against yours, allowing you to savor the contact. You closed your eyes as the warmth spread throughout your body, losing yourself in the moment.

As you surrendered to the kiss, you felt his rough lion tongue tentatively test your lips, seeking permission to deepen the embrace further. Without thinking twice, you eagerly parted your lips in acceptance, welcoming his probing tongue within your mouth.

His hot breath filled your senses as he explored every corner of your mouth, the taste of sulfur lingering on his tongue sending shivers down your spine. It wasn't unpleasant though—far from it—and soon you found yourself matching his fervor, eagerly returning each stroke of his tongue with one of your own.

As the kiss came to an end, Purson gave your waist a gentle squeeze before pulling away. "Was that to your liking?" he rumbled with a hint of amusement in his voice.

You nodded vigorously, causing him to chuckle deeply. The vibrations of his laughter sent pleasant shivers through your entire body.

"Good," Purson declared with satisfaction as he released you from his lap. Standing up shakily, your knees threatened to give out beneath you, but somehow, you managed to maintain your balance.

"Make sure to send in the next person on your way out," he instructed, already focusing on another devotee's profile.

With a dazed expression on your face, you nodded obediently and began to make your way out of the temple, the memory of his kiss still fresh on your lips.

Maybe you might find the courage to ask for another kiss at the next evocation—but for now, you knew better than to push your luck too far.

After all, even demons had their limits.

[shygirl4991]

Chapter 2  Boyfriend Bonding

Cover made by @lizaluvsthis do not repost!

A Reboot of the next step! Last Chapter Next chapter Summary: SMG4 and SMG3 relationship changed after realizing their feelings in WOTFI 2023, now together the pair can take the next step together. That is until a strange gift arrives on SMG3's birthday making him face his demons from his past. 

Tags: Fluff, Boyfriends, Love Confession, Watch Wotfi 2023 before reading, first love, mention of igloo

It was morning in the showgrounds, SMG3 woke up making himself a fresh cup of coffee. The events from yesterday felt like a dream, he looks around the room he is in “Living in SMG4 castle…my..” he blushes remembering the title his ex rival now carried. If someone told SMG3 back when he was a villain he would be calling SMG4 his boyfriend, he is pretty sure he would make sure that person wouldn't be able to speak again. After he grabs his cup of coffee he decides now would be a good time to catch up on reading, he walks to the guest room of the castle and settles himself in. Relaxing in the guest room he takes a sip of his coffee, then takes out ‘redeemed super villains weekly’ a magazine series he picked up after becoming friends with his ex rival.  

He flips through the pages and notices the hit new interview is about a villain that changed to a hero all for love. He wondered if that's what really motivated the change in him, the connection he felt with SMG4. The moment their hands intertwined, the surge of warmth he felt. Was that the moment he first fell for the man, seeing him fight not just for the world but for his friends. SMG3 hums to himself lost in thought, until his boyfriend kicks the door open “AHHH!” SMG3 lets out a high pitch scream. SMG4 blinks seeing the coffee fly in the air landing on the floor, he then stares bug eyed at his boyfriend “SMG3! Uh i'm sorry about that,” he lets out a sheepish smile. He places his laptop on the table in the room before running out to get items to clean the mess. 

SMG3 lets out a shaky breath as Four returns with cleaning products, he starts cleaning the mess as SMG3 glares at him “WHAT THE HELL?! You know not to bother me on Saturdays, it's SMG3 time where I drink coffee and do other things. So what is so important you kick the door down?” SMG4 finishes up the cleaning and gets up, giving his partner a wink. Grabbing his laptop he sits next to SMG3 showing him a list of locations, Three looks at the locations lost on what his boyfriend was up to. “Since we are planning to keep it low with our relationship, i was thinking we can do these couple challenges to warm up on being a couple!”

Three squints at the list, looking at all the challenges made the man want to walk out of the room. He turns to see SMG4 giving him a hopeful looking, Three sighs looking down “I have to ask man, Best chef? Dress me up? These challenges sound fucking stupid dont tell me you got them from wikihow?” SMG4 blushes at being caught, he looks to the side “un no?” He clears his throat in hopes that his boyfriend doesnt push the topic anymore. He points to the list determined to get Three to agree with one, he checked all over the internet and it all told him that the best way to bond with your partner is to do activities together.  He always wanted a relationship, sure he wanted a girlfriend but it didn't change that he felt lonely for so long. Finally understanding what these strange emotions were with SMG3, well he couldn't be happier. Sure they were rival’s for years, but after fighting for so long he finally understood this all happened because they misunderstood each other. Now that they are together he needs to work harder, nothing will break them apart. “Doesn't matter man, I did some research last night and these challenges help bring couples closer together!” 

He turns giving a soft look at SMG3, he blushes at the expression. With a sigh he looks at the list knowing he had lost to his boyfriend,  he then points to one of the challenges. Excited SMG4 peeks to see what was picked “We all know im the better chef, after all Marty wanted my pizza recipe! Heh I doubt a scrub like you could do better!” SMG3 smirks at his partner. SMG4 lets out a chuckle, a smug expression on his face “I remember you burning eggs when we were stuck together, I doubt your cooking is that amazing.”

The pair nod as they run out looking for judgings for the event, SMG4 notices Meggy and Tari arriving. With a bright smile he starts his approach only to be pushed aside by his boyfriend, SMG3 turns around sticking his tongue out at him before reaching the girls. Four glares at his partner watching the exchange “Hey Squid, me and smg4 are going to have a cooking competition. We need judges to try out our cooking.” SMG3 points to the castle, Tari gasps excited at the invitation “Meggy lets do it!” seeing her friend's reaction she lets out a small giggle “Okay, we are in!” Three smiles hearing the agreement. 

The girls walk into the castle ready to take their place, while SMG3 smirks at his boyfriend. With that the men go inside setting up the kitchen with the ingredients needed for the event, given this was SMG4 castle and Mario’s house they mostly had ingredients for pasta. Three looks at everything frowning “Um wont this stuff just summon Mario?” Four chuckles giving Three a pat on his back “Mario is on a vacation with Bowser, I doubt a cooking battle with pasta would bring him back!” Three rolls his eyes “You underestimate our Avatar's love for spaghetti.” 

Meggy walks to the kitchen and smiles at them “Alright ready boys? LETS COOK!” she hits a bell before leaving the room. The boys then begin to cook, SMG4 chuckles to himself as he cooks. Being friends with the plumber for so long has trained him in the arts of pasta, there was no way his boyfriend would beat him. Four turns to check on the competition when his eyes go wide,  there he sees Three picking up two cans of beans and starts to dump it in the pot. He then watches as his partner slices the tomatoes, SMG4 lets out a small smile “Oh well beans to pasta shouldn't be too bad.” 

The moment Four relaxed is when Three took out a bottle of hot sauce and started pouring it into the spaghetti sauce. Watching the sight was worse than any horror game SMG4 had to play through,  deciding to be the best boyfriend he can be, he walks up to the man. SMG3 was humming to himself as he cooks, he pauses when he feels someone grabbing his arm. He turns to see his partner giving him a small smile “Yes?” now having his attention Four points to the man's pot. Three crosses his arms staring at Four “Um Three, you do know beans and hot sauce aren't really a thing put together for spaghetti?” Three scoffs “You don’t know the true power of beans, amusing to see it will be your downfall scrub!” he then blushes slowly slipping his arm away from Four. With a sigh SMG4 walks back to his station, while he cooks he couldn't help peek at his partner hoping Three wouldn't be disappointed when no one likes his dish. 

Both men hit the bell to let the judges know they were done, as they walk out to greet the judge SMG4 gasps seeing they had an extra one. Mario was sitting with the girls waving at them, SMG3 smirks “Told you the spaghetti would summon him.” SMG4 playfully smacks Three as he grabs his plate and hands it to the judges. Three goes to the back to grab his pot, Four watches nervously as Mario vacuums the pasta in a blink of an eye. The girls took a bite and gave him a thumbs up, then noted down his dish was a seven. 

Distracted with writing the score, Mario snuck up behind them and ate their spaghetti. Meggy stares at the plate surprised before turning and glaring at him “Oh come one Red that was ours!” “Mario is hungry!” he then smacks the table demanding more pasta, Meggy sighs giving an apologetic smile to Tari. The girl just giggles at what happened reassuring Meggy. The door opened catching everyone's attention, there SMG3 walked with confidantes showing off his dish. Four couldn't help himself from blushing, if there is one thing Four loves the most about his boyfriend is that cocky confidence he has. 

To keep up the appearance of still being friendly rivals Four smirks at him “I got this in the bag, everyone loved my dish!” Three rolled his eyes amused, he then drops the plate in front of everyone . Tari tilts her head seeing the dish “Beans?” Three nods and proudly waves his hand at the dishes “Yep, It’s SMG3 special pinto beans spaghetti chili!” Each of them took a bite, Four was getting himself ready to comfort his boyfriend. To his surprise they didn't spit the meal out like he expected, instead Tari and Meggy eyes go wide as they start eating the dish as fast as Mario. The girls start crying from the spice as they finish it up, they all hold up tens for the score as Mario dashes to finish the rest of the pasta.

Four fell to his knees in shock, not only did he lose but he judged his own partner not having faith in him. He frowns, realizing how unfair he was towards the other man, slowly a plate appeared in front of him “I saved you a plate..uh! Not because I want you to try out my cooking idiot! I’m just showing off!” Three looks away blushing.

He takes the plate and slowly takes a bite, he couldn't believe how amazing it tasted. He could feel the spice burn him the more he ate, so he decided to stop eating before it got to the point he started to breathe fire. He puts the plate on the table before taking Three’s hand “This is amazing three! I had no idea you could make dishes like this, you're just so amazing.” he smiles softly at Three making the man melt. He gets closer to Four letting his own smile grow “This isn't the half of how amazing i am!”

Meggy lets out a soft cough “Hey um are we missing something here?” Mario’s stache grows as he sniffs the pair “Mario smells gay, are you two finally dating?” 

They both let go of each other embarrassed, they got so lost with each other they forgot about the others. They panic unsure what to do, as SMG3 thinks over the situation, he knew he could trust them not to spill anything. With a deep breath he takes Four’s hand surprising him “YEAH WE ARE DATING AND IF YOU TELL ANYONE THERE IS A BOMB WITH YOUR NAME ON IT!”

SMG4's face goes red, he wasn't expecting Three to make the announcement to them so suddenly. Shyly he intertwined his fingers with Three, they both stayed there waiting to see how their friends would react. Tari giggles clapping for them “Aw I’m so happy for you two!” Meggy nods “Yeah i'm with Tari, It’s awesome you guys are finally together!” she then smirks at Three “Also the threat is hard to take seriously when you're so red in the face there Three.”  SMG3 glares at her “Shut it squid!”

Mario silently stares at them, it felt like a dream for the plumber to hear those words. After years of knowing them and seeing the two at each other, even seeing the event that happened in  a certain igloo, he couldn't believe the day came that finally they were dating.  Seeing how close they were standing to each other and holding hands, slowly a huge smile grew on his face along with his mustache "YIPEE!!! Finally Mario knew you two were gay for each other!" He runs hugging the two guardians.

The boys smile hugging him back, the girls smile at the moment then run up to join the group hug. They spend the day chatting and telling the group how they got together and wanting to keep things low, as they happily talk about random topics a strange package dropped off at the castle along with other gifts. Hearing the sound outside Four nods at the girls to distract Three, he runs and smiles seeing the gifts “Finally it's here, now to figure out how to distract Three tomorrow to throw the best birthday party he’s ever had!” 

[moonlightflowerss]

you can call it as it is|j.yh

summary: You and Yunho are the designated drivers for a night out with your friends

pairing: Jeong Yunho x gn reader

word count: 4k

genre: friends to lovers, slice of life, fluff

contents: mention of smoking, mutual pining, reader is very afraid of romantic feelings, Yunho is sickeningly sweet (let me know if I missed something), one of your friends is in a polyamorous relationship with woosan

a/n: This is wayyyy longer than my usual works but I felt shitty and needed some comfort. Also, I'm sorry for any mistakes, English is not my first language 🥹.

You love your friends, you really do.

But sometimes you really wish they were a little less noisy as soon some alcohol got into their systems.

It's twelve of you inside the karaoke room, all jamming and vibing to the songs playing.

And out of all of these people, just you and Yunho are completely sober as good designated drivers should be.

You have known this group for just a few months. You wouldn't say you're super close yet, but you really enjoy their company and you can really see yoirslef growing very close with them, plus one of your friend (the one that introduced your group to theirs) is in a lovey-dovey relationship with two of them so you know you find your group hanging out with theirs almost every time you go out and you will for quite some time. So you just feel lucky that they're all people you feel comfortable around and have fun with for now.

When someone in the group chat asked to do something tonight, you were pretty sure it would've been something not too crazy, just a chill night out with your friends.

Everything took a turn when you proposed for everyone to come over to your place since you were alone.

From the table games night you imagined, it became the "let's get shitface drunk and get home when the sun rises".

It was quite a turn of events but you didn't really mind it, you are enjoying yourself and so are your friends. Clearly.

Most of them are singing and dancing like their life depended on it while others were eating each other's faces out.

You get out of the cramped space for just a second to have a breathe and get a bottle of water before going back in and facing an inner crisis that you knew from the start would've happened sooner or later.

Out of all the sofas, going almost all the way around the room, the only available seats were either sides of Yunho.

He is the only other sober person in the room. You knew you had to talk with him at some point, but you just wanted to postpone it as long as you could.

It's not that you don't like him.

Actually, the problem is the exact opposite.

You aren't a very smooth talker to start with.

Entertaining any kind of conversation for you is a whole, complicated task. More so if you're completely sober and you have a (not so) small crush on your interlocutor.

You close the door behind you and make eye contact with him while moving towards the seat beside his and he just gives you a kind smile following your movements until you're sitting beside him, making a little bit more room for you to sit comfortably.

《how's your night going? everything okay?》he asks as soon as you settle on the soft cushions, leaning away from the back rest and slightly towards you to make sure you hear him over the noises

《yeah, I'm having a lot of fun, but sometimes I really need to get a little bit of fresh air from outside》 you answer honestly, chuckling lightly for reasons unknown even to you

《yes, it's very warm》 he just states, nodding and dropping back against the backrest. You understand that this is your cue to either drop the conversation or to make it continue.

You lean against the backrest just a few seconds after him, gaining another small smile from his lips.

《how is your night going? are you enjoying being the designated driver?》 you ask, ironically, making him laugh

《I don't think I remember how it feels going out and not be the designated driver》 he states with faux annoyance on his face before smiling brightly 《joking, I enjoy it very much and the night is going very well. Also, for once, I have someone not drunk to talk to, so...》 he laughs lightly and you with him, internally panicking, feeling every idea you had to continue the conversion, die in the back of your mind.

But Yunho quickly puts a remedy to that by looking at the time on his phone.

《it's quite late, whenever you want to go we can. Don't feel pressured to really wait until the sun rises just because Wooyoung proposed it》 he chuckles, and you shake your head amused

《I don't think he remembers what he said anyway》 you state, eyeing wooyoung sipping his nth glass of wine, struggling to even keep his spine straight and still.

You and Yunho laugh at the scene, shaking your heads.

《anyway, i think i can handle a little more before going home. But if you want to go, we can》 you give him a timid smile, suddenly aware of how close you two are.

He gives another smile back and nods 《I'd say we should take another ten minutes to relax, and then we will think on how to drag all of them into the cars》 he chuckles, making you nod

《I'm going out to smoke a cigarette, wanna keep me company?》 the words leave your mouth before you can think about them throughly, making yourself blush.

Luckily, he can't see it because the room is dark, green and blue lights are the only source of illumination in the room. But you can feel it very clearly, and it gets even worse when he just nods and gets up, stretching a hand out to help you.

You grab it more shyly than you wanted to show, letting him help you to get on your high heels.

Your hands and your eye contact linger a little more than what you would expect from the situation before you turn to collect your jacket and quickly put it on.

《let's go》 you give him a quick smile before moving to go outside.

Once you are finally met with the cold air of the night, you take a deep breath, leaning against a wall.

Yunho is settling against the car in front of you, looking at you attentively.

《you think they'll survive without both of us?》 you ask to break the ice, laughing more than you normally would; but the way he's looking at you is making you feel so tense it's nerve-wracking

《they'll find a way, i really needed the fresh air》 he answers, chuckling before resuming his staring.

He's not a creep, you don't feel in danger or uneasy, but you're anxious because you have no idea of what he's thinking, and you know he's thinking something very intently just by the way he's looking up an down your every inch with a concentrated face.

You keep your eyes on your hands, scrambling to gather everything you need to roll yourself a cigarette.

《everything okay?》 you ask, breaking the silence, refusing to look at his face.

You can still imagine his cheeks are now red from the way your peripheral vision catches him squirming uncomfortably like a kid that is being scolded.

《I'm sorry I didn't mean to stare》 he clears his throat 《I haven't really got a chance to be around you a lot even if our groups hang out frequently so, you know, I was collecting facts about you?》 he says questioningly before shaking his head 《I have no idea what I just said I'm sorry》 he's blushing and looking away from you while laughing nervously and you can't help but find him so cute it makes you want to punch him.

You know it's your fault that you two never really get around each other a lot.

To be clear: you adore the man.

Everything about him is mesmerizing to you, and that is terrifying.

And, as much as you wanted to, nothing seemed convincing enough for you to make a move. Not even your friends telling you that he likes you back a hundred times.

You just couldn't wrap your head around it, so you just decided that it was an absurd impression they got.

All of these things together resulted in avoiding alone time with him as a way to cope with your crush, fearing that your fluttering heart might betray the chill and uninterested appearance you were trying so hard to build.

You laugh, blushing as much as him, waiting a few seconds before speaking again 《and you found something interesting?》 you have no idea what to give the blame for this uncharacteristic forwardness.

He's taken aback as much as you, and you can't bring yourself to hold eye contact for more than three seconds, looking away and finishing to roll your cigarette so you can finally light it.

《not sure I want to share my observations with you》 he tries to contain his laugh behind an ironic intellectual tone

《what? but now I'm curious》 you complain

《you can survive, darling》 he smirks, his voice gaining confidence by the second.

You shake your head in fake annoyance, the pet name making you way more weak than you would like to admit.

A nice silence settles between you two, just enjoying the quiet and the breeze of the night.

In between the drags of your cigarette, you are looking around, trying not to stare at the tall man in front of you for too long.

But your attention is caught when you see him stare somewhere above you, following his gaze and catching a speck of the moon.

Delicately, you move beside him to be able to see its entirety and relish the view.

You make your shoulders accidentally touch, but he doesn't move, so neither do you.

《it looks amazing》 he comments, and you just make a noise of assent, so fascinated you can't take the eyes off of it.

But now you can feel he's looking at you, staring at your loving expression and following the movements of your hand moving the cigarette towards and away from your mouth.

Your skin shivers with anticipation, feeling like you're in a movie.

Both of you are moving ever so slowly towards each other.

His hand touches you with a delicacy you didn't think any human could have, and tucks some hair behind your ear, looking intently at what he's doing.

You can't help but look at him, if it was a movie you would've said that it was a cliche, the two protagonists don't even know each other that well and are already acting like they are the loves of each other's lives? Cringe and unrealistic.

But now you can't put together a sigle thought, only wishing he won't leave you hanging like they do in movies.

《I like the way you look at the moon》 it's a little more than a whisper, his fingers lingering behind your ear, playing gently with your hair

《I love the moon, it fascinates me like just a few other things in this world do》 you explain, your cigarette forgot between your fingers

《what are these other few things?》 he asks curiously, you think you see a glint of hope in his eyes, but maybe you're just feeding into your delusions

《I'm not sure I want to share that with you》 you repeat his words back to him, laughing and leaning slightly in his touch.

He opens his hand, giving you the chance to rest your cheek comfortably against his palm. So you tilt your head further against him.

《devious little thing you are》 he says with a little smile, his kind and warm tone in contrast with his words.

You can feel his fingers curling against your scalp, caressing it, always with the same delicacy.

《finish your cigarette so we can go home》 he says, kindly, gently stroking your cheekbone with his thumb a couple more times before moving away his hand.

There is a little disappointment settling inside your chest, but you just nod and resume your smoking.

《your hair is even softer than what i thought》 he states, his hand finding again purchase in between the strands of hair on the nape of your neck, caressing it gently

《you think about my hair a lot?》 you ask, mischievous, adoring his embarrassed reactions and his slightly flushed cheeks

《you mock me a lot for someone who can't concentrate enough to smoke as soon as i touch you》 he bites back, making your cheeks flush as much as his.

You feel like two teens trying to cope with their first crush, resorting to sneering and teasing each other.

You roll your eyes, making a display of an annoyance you don't really feel before resuming, once again, your smoke.

It doesn't take you long before you are forced to pull apart from Yunho to throw the cigarette stub in the trash and looking back at him.

《let's go call them》 you announce, tiredness seeping from your voice.

He nods and follows right behind you up until the door for the karaoke room

《take your things, I'll convince them to leave》 he smiles kindly before going in.

After quickly checking in with the barman that everything got paid for, you followed Yunho, gathering your bag and some of your friends.

It takes quite a struggle to make everybody get out of the pub and inside the car, but once you're finally done, you and Yunho smile at each other.

《I'll be behind you》 he states

《if you can keep up》 you tease, and he gives you a quick chuckle before looking at you apprehensively

《don't speed》

《damn, dad, okay》 you roll your eyes before laughing and getting into the car.

Both you and Yunho know that you are not the type to drive too fast, especially with people with you, but he likes to show that he cares and you like to feel when people care about you.

The ride to your home is quicker and quieter than you anticipated.

You throw a glance at the clock of your car noting it's past 4 in the morning so you imagine the euphoria your friends were feeling, given by the alcohol, now must be starting to be replaced by tiredness and you really enjoy the relaxed mood in your car.

Once you finally park it takes another few minutes to get everybody out of the cars, specially out of Yuno's since the 2 supplemental seats in the back required some mobility that your friends really don't have right now.

Regardless, everybody is finally home, and since the majority of the beds are upstairs most of your friends decide to just crush on the sofa or on the ground heedless of your and Yunho's effort to put them in a slightly more comfortable place.

So you just looked at each other and shrugged.

He smiles at you and, once again, tucks the same strand of hair behind your ear.

《let's go to sleep》 he suggests and although you feel tired you don't feel sleepy, but most of all now that you finally mustered up the courage to be alone with him you don't want to let it go just yet

《do you want a cup of tea?》 that's all that came to mind to try and stay in Yunho's company a little more.

He smiles sincerely and nods.

You give his hand, still beside your face, a gentle squeeze before going to prepare the teas as quietly as possible since everybody seemed knocked out.

Handing him his cup once it was done you get close to him 《it's better if we go upstairs, so we can leave them rest》 you whisper and, again, he nods and follows you.

《this is my room》 you say, opening the door.

You fear for a second that he might misunderstand your intention so you just stand still on the door, waiting for him to do something.

And he doesn't take long at all, getting into your room and sitting on the office chair comfortably.

《it's very nice》 he says kindly, spinning around the chair while looking around

《thanks, it took me a lot to finally find a place for everything that actually satisfied me》 you explain before sipping your tea

《I think the room tells a lot about the person》

《and what does it say about me?》 you ask, sincerely curios, but it takes one glance from Yunho to roll your eyes 《don't even try to say that you don't want to tell me》 you ironically scold him and he laughs

《you can't force me to say this》 he teases and you roll your eyes again.

And you keep shifting around teasing and getting to know each other, back and forth. Basking yourselves in the heart fluttering feeling you both have.

Soon enough both your cups are empty and both of you get relaxed, you on the bed and him still on the chair. Much so that you fall asleep without even fully realizing it.

In fact, you wake up an unknown amount of time later, shivering. The sun starting to slowly light up the sky.

You are in the same position in which you were talking with Yunho: laying on your side at the bottom of your bed to be close enough to the tall man.

He, just as you, is in the same position in which he was talking to you: on the chair, legs slightly spread and his arms crossed over his chest.

What is different was his clothing. In fact, the hoodie he was wearing all night is not around his fit torso anymore, but lovely spread over your curled body like a blanket.

You took a second to stretch your legs and spine before looking at Yunho.

His relaxed face is a delight to see, waking him feels almost criminal.

But you reason that he probably isn't that comfortable on the chair, plus he must be cold since he's just in a tight black t-shirt.

Your hand pats lightly his thigh, then his arms a little harder, then caresses his cheek until he finally regains consciousness.

《sorry to wake you, do you want to go to bed?》 you whisper.

He barely opens his eyes, putting a hand over yours.

《I'd love to sleep with you if it's okay for you》 he mumbles, still clearly groggy, before kissing your palm and closing his eyes back again, pressing his cheek against your hand.

You chuckle, it's not what you asked but you're glad he misinterpreted.

《come on, then》 you whispered again, soliciting him to get up by using your free hand to pat his thigh.

He sighs and stretches before coming into the bed quickly followed by you.

Now that you're so close, you feel sleepiness leave your body immediately. Forcing yourself to close your eyes trying not to disturb Yunho.

After just a few second his fingertips graze over your cheek and your eyes automatically open to meet his.

《do you have something I can wear as pants, sleeping with jeans is really uncomfortable》he whispers laughing quietly. You nod and move to give him a pair of unisex, oversized sweatpants hoping they will fit.

He thanks you and goes to the bathroom to change and so do you in your room, slipping into a pair of pajama pants and a t-shirt.

Reality is: you're panicking. You're afraid you are the only one feeling what you're feeling and now he feels uneasy, looking for an excuse to put some distance in between you two.

When he comes back you're zoning out on the bed, sitting and staring into the void.

His gentle touch against your cheek snaps you out of it, making you instinctively turn to meet his gaze.

《they're a little short but I'll be fine》 he comments, amused by the lenght of the sweats 《now let's go to sleep》 he suggests getting back into bed and silently suggesting you to come closer by caressing your arm and then your back.

You stay still for a few seconds, taking in the idea that he was not trying to get away from you. Quite the opposite actually.

Before he could worry you complied, scooting closer into his chest and starting to play with his hair.

《what's on your mind?》 he asks whispering, his lips kissing softly your forehead.

You rise your head to meet his eyes.

His soft gaze making a small smile form on your face.

《nothing... it's nice being like this》 you whisper back, hoping you're not as flushed as you think

《I thought you would avoid me forever》 he chuckles

《what? I wasn't avoiding you》 you were

《you were》 he repeats your thought before bringing his face closer to yours, your heart almost bursting out your chest 《but it's fine because now I know why you were doing it》

《and why is that?》

《because you're head over heels for me》 he states, chuckling, trying to mask the fear to be wrong although you can still read it in his eyes

《head over heels is a bit too much》 you mock annoyance in your voice, your smile giving you away

《that's a shame because I am》 he's back to his soft, delicate whispering.

His eyes looking at you in anticipation, hoping he didn't say too much.

You don't even think about it, moving forward until your lips finally collide.

You feel him smile against you, holding you close to his chest, squeezing the fabric of your shirt in between his fingers almost like to stop you from slipping away.

You hold him too. Never in a million years even thinking about leaving now that you're finally here.

And you don't know how long you have been kissing when he delicately moves his face away.

《how much more time you wanted to gatekeep from me these kissing skills?》 he chuckles, grazing a thumb over your lips.

You burst out laughing, struggling to keep quiet and put your embarassed face back against his long neck ���go to sleep, dumbass》

《will you give me classes?》 he jokes, clearly amused by you embarassed face, trying to pull you from where you're hiding; but you're quick to turn over giving him your back and conceal your face with your hands

《shut up》 you laugh again

《alright, okay, I'll give you time to think about it》 he concedes, laughing in return.

He tightens his arms around you, pressing your back against his chest, before gently taking your hands off your face and intertwine his fingers with yours.

《good night, baby》 you feel him lever himself to be able to kiss delicately your cheek.

You smile and squeeze his hand closer to your body 《good night》 you say simply and close your eyes.

After just a few seconds, Yunho is hoisting himself back up, and you feel him look at you, so you open back your eyes to look at him.

《what’s wrong?》

《I can’t sleep》

《you didn’t even try》

《I did, I can’t》 the dramatic tone he is using it’s making it very hard for you to play along without burst out laughing

《I feel like you’re about to ask me something》

《not my fault if I’m sure that making out with you would help me》

And, laughing, you gladly comply.

You couldn’t say no, and you wouldn’t anyway.

But eventually, sleep got the best of the both of you.

Your bodies still tangled together, and his head is still on your chest when your sleep gets interrupted by some noises out your door and Yunho’s phone vibrating beside him.

《Yunho, wake up》 you stroke his hair, making him curl further against you

《unless someone’s dying, I don’t wanna wake up》 he mumbles, making you chuckle

《yeah I wanna go check if someone’s dying. Also, someone’s calling you》

He grunts and shuffles to find his phone before looking back at you, already out of the bed 《please be quick, I really want to go back to sleep》 he whines before calling whoever it was.

Venturing outside your room, you find your best friend with her face shoved in the toilet and one of her two boyfriends, Wooyoung, holding back her hair.

《you need help?》

《oh no, thank you, San went to get her some water. Sorry for waking you up》 he answers, smiling brightly like nothing’s wrong

《oh no worries, just tell me if you need something, okay?》 you smile back, and he nods before smirking

《you sure you don’t have anything to tell me?》 his eyebrows going up and down

《check your girlfriend’s well-being, Wooyo》 you scoff laughing before leaving the bathroom and going back to your room.

Yunho is lying on his back, an arm covering his eyes, and his hair splayed on the pillow.

《who was on the phone?》 you ask softly, to not startle him

《Hongjoong, but you’ll know as soon as you meet him》 he shakes his head amused, and you look at him questioningly, getting back in bed beside him

《what do you mean?》

《he came in earlier to check if there was an empty bed and saw us sleep together, and now he wants to know every detail》 he explains, his voice somewhere in between exhausted and amused.

It’s gonna be a long day.

The thought makes a small smile come up on your face and sigh.

《what?》 his curious eyes find yours

《nothing, I’ve seen Hongjoong question Yeosang when he wanted him to spill the tea about the chick he kissed in the pub the night before, so I was imagining how he will be with us》

《and what are you imagining you’ll say, then?》 he asks, hovering on top of you.

His head is tilted, fingers delicately grazing over your cheek and his eyes light up with a sparkle of hope, you think.

You love how he’s constantly wearing his heart on his sleeve and that’s also what kept you from get to close to him before yesterday night.

You’re terrified at the idea of seeing that spark die out because of you.

《what are you thinking?》 his gentle tone snaps you out of your swirling thoughts

《I am afraid I’ll give the wrong answer》 you admit, your voice quieter than what you anticipated

《just say what you’re thinking. If you’re feeling it, it can’t be wrong》 he comforted you, sitting up and pulling you gently to sit up with him

《I don’t want you to feel obligated, I fear I’m moving too fast》

《baby, just say it, I can take it》 he smiles, cupping your face with both his hands

《maybe we should, I don’t know, start to… seeing each other I guess, maybe?》 you ask, you feel so anxious it makes you mad

《that’s disappointing, I thought you were about to ask me to marry you》 he mocks you, making you blush

《shut up》 a chuckle betraying you, your eyes avoiding his and your cheeks on fire

《how am I supposed to know? Maybe you wanted a kid, your premises were vague》 he laughed, starting to press pecks all over your flushed face, hovering over your lips before speaking again 《not sure I want a child yet, but for sure I want to date, you can call it as it is》 he mocks before kissing you tenderly.

All of your negative thoughts immediately leaving your head, silently promising yourself you’ll do everything to keep this giant, amazing man and his spark safe.

[frankthesnek]

Hello can I get soft kiss 7 for Stony?

Okay, okay so all the other kiss prompt fills have been soft and fluffy and cute. This one gave me angst vibes. I hope thats okay 💕

Come Home Again

Rated G

Prompt: sharing a kiss after not seeing eachother for an extended period of time

750 words

The room was dark when Tony opened his eyes, a dull depthless darkness that was a far cry different from the mystical and star spotted blackness he'd been surrounded by in space.

Right… he was back.

Thinking was normally an easy task for Tony, but recalling the events that led him here was difficult and physically taxing. He remembered landing, remembered clinging to Nebula and limping down the ramp, remembered—

“Steve?” The word was horse and croaking as it left his lips. Steve's hands on his arm and shoulder, too tight and almost painful on his depleted worn out body, the solid heat at his side as Steve had helped him inside—that he remembered, but in a too good to be true dreamy way he wasn't sure he should believe.

“Tony?"

The sound of his name was startling, and Tony flinched harshly before sluggishly turning his head to find Steve sitting off to the side of his bed. His face was shadowed, the plains and angles of it illuminated gently by the subtle glow of the nano tech arc. Why did Steve have it?

“I'm sorry for pushing you like that,” Steve's words were hollow, his eyes downcast to the reactor.

Oh.

Tony closed his eyes against the returning memory. Steve’s questions, his own lunatic ramblings as he fell apart. They had ended on fighting so long ago and wound up the same way this time around. The cold of Siberia seemed better than the chemical fresh chill of the medical bay. He had been left alone and cold and broken hearted back then, but at least his spirit had still been intact. It felt like now he'd lost even that.

“It's fine,” Tony mumbled back softly, opening his eyes to find Steve now looking at him. The reactor's light was obscured by Steve's large palm curling around it, the duller lighting making his face look dark and sad.

“It was selfish,” the other man countered. “I shouldn't have—”

“No. No, no, nonono,” the word tumbled out of Tony in a weak and droning mantra, forcing Steve into silence. Tony went quiet too. Breathing and collecting his thoughts, chasing them like scared animals hiding in the fog of his brain. So much had happened, so much had gone wrong. He didn't want this with Steve. Couldn't handle it—not now. Later, later, there would be time for talking and healing and explanations. All the things they had destroyed and that had been lost between them—it wouldn't, couldn't be forgotten but right now, none of it mattered.

“I don't want to argue. I don't want to fight. I'm done fighting. We lost. We lost so much,” the words were fucking bitter—sharp and painful in his too tight dry throat.

“Tony,” Steve stood and moved to the edge of the bed, placing the reactor on the sheets. Its calming blue a bright contrast to the bland white of them.

“I don't care right now about all of our fuck ups—not yours, not mine. Steve, I just wanna come home.” Tony didn't realize the words had brought him to tears until Steve's palm settled over his cheek. Cupping gently like so many times in the past. Tony turned his face into the contact. “I wanna go home,” softer this time, the words spoken into the battle calloused skin of Steve's palm.

“You are home, honey,” Steve said, sitting on the edge of the bed. “You’re home.”

When Steve leaned down over him, the moment felt too long and drawn out. The few seconds it took for Steve's lips to meet his a back breaking straw on top of all the time they had been apart—all the touches they had robbed themselves of.

Tony pressed back simply, not having the energy for more than the firm contact of a couple grounding pecks. Steve lingered, like he always did. His soft mouth brushed tenderly along Tony's jaw, and he felt his stubble catch against the supple softness of the other man's lips.

“You're home now. Get some rest,” Steve whispered into his cheek.

Tony closed his eyes again, barely registering the dip and shift in the bed, already fading back into exhausted sleep. It was only when he heard the steady thump under his ear that he realized Steve had laid down with him; had shifted them so Tony was curled atop him, head pillowed on Steve's powerful chest.

He was home. It was a broken home—cracked picture frames, and unmade beds, and cobweb filled closets—but the foundation was still there. Strong and sturdy, and everything he needed.

[oscurascout]

Bad Sanses Adventures

Oh It's On! (Nightmare only)

Masterlist

Nightmare had finished his task; he knew the others wouldn't do it, so he went ahead and did it for them. Now, Nightmare was in Ccino's café, enjoying a nice black coffee.

Ccino - “Are you planning on doing anything today?”

Nightmare - *reading* “No, I'll just enjoy my time here.”

Ccino - “Good!”

Nightmare - *confused* “Why?”

Ccino - “That way you'll come with me.”

Nightmare - “Where?”

Ccino - “It's like a nightclub, but for gamers.”

Nightmare - “But you and I don't play video games.”

Ccino - “It doesn't matter! Come on, let's go!”

Ccino quickly closed his café, and Nightmare, with no choice, followed him. They arrived at an AU and started heading toward the venue until Nightmare noticed a certain skeleton. He grabbed Ccino and dragged him toward the skeleton.

Nightmare - “Hello, Reaper.”

Reaper - *quickly turns around* “Oh, hey guys!”

Ccino - “Are you also here for the game night event?”

Reaper - “Nah, I'm just about to clock out.”

Ccino - “Do you want to come with us?”

Reaper - “Sure!”

And so all three headed toward their destination. Once there, they noticed a lot of creatures and they quickly started exploring the place. Even though they didn’t know half of the games available, they still enjoyed trying them out. But all good things come to an end.

A monster accidentally bumped into Nightmare. Not only did the monster start yelling and blaming Nightmare, but it also challenged him to a game duel.

Now Ccino and Reaper were cheering for Nightmare.

Nightmare - *grabbing his controller* “Why do I have to do this? If I wasn't the dumb one …”

Reaper - “Come on, just enjoy it!”

Ccino - “It's okay if you don't win.”

Nightmare - “No, I'm going to make him regret ever challenging me to this dumb duel”

Ccino and Reaper looked at each other, surprised, while Nightmare smirked. The two contestants were ready; the monster had a confident smirk on his face, while Nightmare just rolled his eyes and got comfortable.

Soon, both started playing, and to everyone’s surprise, Nightmare was the one winning. After three rounds, it was clear, Nightmare had won, having destroyed his opponent without mercy.

Monster - *shocked* “W-what! This can't be!”

Ccino - *getting close to Nightmare* “I thought you said you didn't know how to play video games”

Nightmare - *smirks, shrugs* “Guess I lied.”

Reaper - *eating some popcorn* “Wow, how are you so good?”

Nightmare - “Killer and Dust are ruthless.”

Ccino chuckled. Reaper looked at the monster and noticed that he was glaring at Nightmare.

Reaper - “Uhh, Night, I think someone’s glaring at you.”

Nightmare - “You think?”

Nightmare had noticed the glare since the game finished, but he didn't care. He stood up, ready to leave, but was stopped once again, this time by someone who looked like the monster's friend. The monster had challenged him, yet he was defeated in mere minutes, just like his friend. The monster and his friend ran away; Nightmare could have sworn he saw tears running down their faces, but he wasn't sure.

Nightmare sighed and stayed seated, gripping the controller again, his expression clearly unamused. Ccino, seeing an opportunity, leaned closer with a mischievous glint in his eye.

Ccino - *smiles* “How about we make this a little more fun?”

Nightmare - *raising an eyebrow* “How?”

Ccino - “Let’s all play three matches, and the winner gets the satisfaction of ordering the other two around.”

Nightmare - *immediately* “No.”

Ccino - “Please! Okay, only for like five minutes.”

Reaper - *smirks* “Come on, Night, let's do it! Besides, you already showed that you can play video games, and it’s only five minutes.”

Nightmare - “Alright, but you guys will regret it.”

Reaper - *grins, cracking his knuckles, sitting down with a controller in his hand* “You’re on. Just don’t cry when I wipe the floor with both of you.”

Ccino - *smiles, also sitting down* “We'll see about that.”

The three skeletons settled into the game, controllers ready. They were instantly immersed, fingers flying over buttons as they battled it out in a competitive brawl game. The intensity in the air was thick, with each of them shooting quick glances at each other.

After the first round, each had won one, leading to the final death match. All three started strong; Reaper used his special move and was able to grab Ccino, making him fall. Yet, Reaper received a quick hit from Nightmare, causing him to fall down as well. Nightmare turned back to Ccino, who was trying to jump his way onto the platform.

Suddenly, Nightmare was attacked by a furry ball. A dog had gotten in and was now licking Nightmare's face.

Nightmare - *trying to push the dog away* “Stop!”

Nightmare glanced at the TV and saw his character falling, ending with him dying.

Nightmare - *annoyed, finally managing to move the dog* “That's cheating”

Both Ccino and Reaper laughed, and just to be good sports, they played another round while the dog stayed near Nightmare, enjoying his company.

[cringecannon]

I’m obsessed with the idea of there being some Normal Person ™️ who was kind to Astarion when he was a vampire spawn that maybe he’s a little unhealthily obsessed with. Maybe they’re a bartender at one of the establishments where he picked up victims for Cazador, maybe a seamstress who gave him thread for his embroidery or to patch up his clothing, maybe just someone who had kind words for him and didn’t try to hit on him, who knows? But it would be verrrrrry interesting to see an Ascendant Astarion encountering that Normal Person again, maybe deciding to “reward” them for being kind to him when he was nothing. Though I’m not sure if his idea of a reward would be what they would consider a reward….

(Also as an aside, I love your writing! I check your blog daily and my friends and I are constantly sending each other your Gortash and Astarion posts like “wake up, babe, new cringecannon dropped”)

He wasn't entirely sure why he was so enamored with you. To put it bluntly, you were just so... plain. Unassuming. Normal. Sure, you were nice. Plenty of people were nice to him though, and he didn't spare them a second thought. He watches you over the chalice of wine in his hand, seated in a dark corner of the bar.

Dark eyes follow the movement of your fingers as you carefully flip the page of whatever book you're reading. He glances up to your mouth, memorizing the twitch of your lip as you half-smile at some thought. Vanity rears it's head. You must be thinking of him. You had spoken to him for maybe a minute, one transaction out of hundreds, but how often did you get to see a face as pretty as his?

Not often, he hopes. A bolt of insecurity cuts through him. He feels pathetic, desperate. It sickens him. He could take anyone in this tavern home with him, and he's not going to sit around and let you make him feel inferior. His eyes settle on some pretty thing sitting alone at the bar and takes his wine with him, swaying over to his mark. Out of the corner of his eye, he tries to see if you're watching. You're not, staring down at your book like it's the most important thing in the room. He refuses to let you deflate his ego. His master wouldn't want you anyway. He'll waste no more time obsessing over some boring nobody.

He does, though. Watching you becomes a treat for him. Speaking with you when he shops becomes a whole event. The last time he saw you, you'd finally started to recognize him. A warm smile lit up your face as you reached for the exact kind of thread he always comes in for. It was fate, of course, that he'd be abducted the next day.

That first night in camp he wonders if you'll miss him. If you'd think about him as fondly as he thinks of you. Reality crashes in, and the fact that you probably won't is bittersweet. He had been playing a dangerous game with you. Any closer, and Cazador probably would have found out. You'd have been just another thing to take away from him. It was safer this way.

He doesn't think about you much after that. Facing death everyday tends to do that.

It's not until Cazador's blood has long since dried on his hands that he thinks of you. He washes his skin absentmindedly, trying to remember all that he could about you. It wasn't much, honestly. He didn't know your name, but he knew the kind of books you liked to read and the way your eyes shined when your hand touched his when he paid for his thread. It was a start. No one else in camp had kept his attention long. He needs someone to sit by his side and look good for all eternity, and you'd do just fine.

That settles it, in his mind. When the elder brain business is over, he'll start courting you. He thinks he should start by buying the shop you work in. Get rid of the owner somehow, and then he'll give it to you. Once you fall for him (and you will, because you're just too perfect to be so ungrateful after receiving such a thoughtful gift), he'll invite you to live in his new manor. If you're a bit more stubborn, it won't matter. He's not yet sure what hovel you live in, but he's sure you'll appreciate the upgrade.

He sits up a little taller, a small smile on his face as he dries his hands. Should he make you his spawn before he marries you, or after? On one hand, it'd be the perfect way to start the honeymoon. On the other, if he turns you early your cooperation would be guaranteed. He hums to himself. Decisions, decisions. Honestly, it's too soon to worry about it. He has the rest of his everlasting life to woo you. No point stressing over it now.

[castlebyersafterdark]

let's do a little brainstorming for fun... lots of people seem to think that will is gonna end up staying in mike's room while the byers settle back into hawkins. if this happened i imagine mike would force will to take his bed and sleep on the floor. but imagine if they confess/find out while this is still happening... being realistic about teenage hormones as well as their internalised homophobia etc + the fact they share the house with others, what do you think the outcome of them having confessed while still sharing a room would be? based on the average teen gay males lol.

would they share the bed but nothing happens? would they sleep apart to ensure nothing happens? would they go for it and fool around, probs not all the way but just feeling each other and making out? i know they are both so into each other but i honestly can't predict what their behaviour would be

Prefacing to say, for the actual show, I do not think that Will is staying at the Wheeler's house for a very long time. Maybe when they first arrive in Hawkins until they find somewhere adequate (at the radio station... at one of the farms, etc). And I also think the confession is going to be a bit more heat of the moment? High stakes? Build up to it etc. BUT HOWEVER. My favorite favorite "canon" style fandom trope is Will staying with the Wheelers and he shares Mike's room. So good.

Envisioning this scenario: spot on. Mike is not putting his boy on the floor?? Will gets the bed haha. I imagine that after a while, whatever stakes bring them to confessing, after sharing the room for a while in this span of time in between the beginning of the end of the world and before they stop it, let's say something gets them to confess and admit feelings for one another, that first night either they're talking, staying up sitting on Mike's bed, and the jubilation and excitement of finding out they have reciprocal feelings for one another - that first night they just would stay up talking and kissing until they eventually fall asleep. The shock and newness of it all won't lead to much more. But they do get to wake up in each other's arms, how cute.

But after that, it's real. It's a known thing. They like each other. What are we to one another? And they end the day together, back in Mike's bedroom. I think maybe there's a moment of hesitation that second night, but they laugh and decide. Why wouldn't we? We're sharing the bed now. We can get away with it. Shyness bleeds away into giddy secrets, one they have together now. How fucked up is it, the way the world views and treats boys like us, but hey - how lucky, too. No one will suspect what we're doing in here. There's no way their parent's would allow a girlfriend or a girl in general to share the room, even with the understanding that the sleeping bag is on the floor. No one anticipated gay teenagers experimenting while everyone goes to sleep! How fucking lucky are we? Haha

I think getting together like I stated above in the show storyline, it's possible that a confession under stress/heat of the moment/high stakes could lead to something beyond just a kiss right away. Show runtime, plot, etc. But compare this to getting together say, during "peacetime" or after events of s5, Will staying elsewhere, a normal home life situation, the trajectory of their relationship is on a different timeline depending on circumstances. A normal teenage relationship is thwarted by going to school, parents aren't gonna let them spend every night together (even if it's thought they're just friends). It's planning hang outs and dates and finding situations and time to sneak away. Boys sharing the room every night under otherwise standard assumptions? That relationship is progressing physically a lot faster.

Everyone's supposed to be asleep, anyway. You're a teenage boy (and teenage girls do similar of course) and you're raging with pent up hormones and you're getting off at night. Imagine the tension and frustration before they get together, having to share that bedroom. There's no alone time! Having to logistically plan now when to get off, now that someone else is always in your bedroom. But eventually as time goes on, hey! The boy I like likes me back! Amazing. We're sleeping in the same bed. We're kissing and making out every night once we close the door and say we're going to bed (how early can we get away with doing that without making it seem suspicious). If we're quiet, we can try something else. They know they want it, obvious how turned on they are after they've been making out, how they awake tangled together, sometimes with a little morning wood situation going on. Teenagers. They're having fun, they're exploring their feelings, they're getting off together at night. They're not going all the way and fully fucking in his bedroom, absolutely not with the threat of others still in the house - they can get away with certain things but the anxiety is still there. And they wait a while to even try that, it's a big step. Deserves peace and quiet and time to dedicate to making it good. Not going to risk and rush that with siblings and parents down the hall. They've got a lot else to occupy their time.

If this was the way they got together in some version of Mike and Will's story, all that described feels like a pretty accurate portrayal of what two teenage boys are going to get up to after confessing feelings for one another. Kind of want to write this scenario. I've read a ton of really good fics where this is the situation they're dealing with and I've read a lot of super good confession scenes, but what happens after that first kiss and make out and night spent together, since that's where the fics usually stop because they all stay firmly sfw. I'd love to see more extended storylines. Portray a realistic approach to the relationship because one of the elements that draws me in so much, and a lot of others I believe, is that switch from two best friends into two best friends who both know they like each other and have physically and emotionally expressed that. Navigating from a deep platonic relationship to a romantic/physical relationship after being suuuuch good friends for so long is really interesting (and cute and hot, of course). That timeframe is severely under-explored around this fandom.

[bi-bard]

Only Time Will Tell On Which Pedestal We Were Meant to Stand - Arthur Shelby Imagine [Peaky Blinders]

Title: Only Time Will Tell On Which Pedestal We Were Meant to Stand

Characters: Arthur Shelby, Child!Reader [about 16]

Based On: Hit or Miss

Word Count: 1,195 words

Warning(s): yelling, mention of drug use/unhealthy behavior (all within canon), mention of poor mental health (again, within canon)

Summary: [Season 1; 1919] Polly talks some sense into Arthur after his behavior becomes out of control and he ends up pushing away the one person that seemed to care for him no matter what.

Author's Note: I had to go check my math for the hundredth time. Why did I think that this was a good idea?

Part One of "July" [Release Date: 7/26/2023]

Part Three of "July" [Release Date: 7/28/2023]

YEARBOOK - SLEEPING AT LAST WRITING CHALLENGE MASTERLIST

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Polly had warned (Y/n) about what Arthur could be like after returning to Birmingham.

There was a long discussion about the issues that (Y/n) may have missed during that first year before he had been sent away. An even longer discussion about what Polly had seen from other men returning from the war.

(Y/n) was scared. Terrified, even.

It had been about five years since (Y/n) had seen Arthur. They hadn't truly thought about how much they had changed until their talk with Polly. They suddenly felt like an entirely new person. Would Arthur care about them? Would he push them out? Deem them capable of taking care of themself and send them away?

The long list of possibilities had led to countless nights spent pacing around the small room that (Y/n) had been staying in.

(Y/n) wouldn't be fortunate enough to experience true comfort until Arthur had made it home.

The initial reunion was nice.

(Y/n) was waiting in the main sitting room, pacing like they had for countless nights. Polly had sent Arthur in ahead of everyone else.

The pair of them stood silently for a moment, staring at each other. Both of them taking in how much the other had grown up without them. (Y/n) looking on with disbelief and fear; Arthur looking on with that same fear but mixed with guilt instead.

"Hello," (Y/n) murmured.

Arthur didn't respond, instead moving forward to bring (Y/n) into a tight hug. A shaky breath left him. (Y/n) closed their eyes and tucked their face in his shoulder.

"I missed you, kid," Arthur finally mumbled.

(Y/n) felt comfort roll over them. It was as if any worries had immediately settled. Finally, they had the idea that it was all going to be alright.

At first, anyway.

It didn't take much time for Arthur's problems to begin emerging.

It was slow at first. Later nights, louder shouting.

It was similar to water boiling in a pot.

Slowly forming bubbles that would rise to the surface. At first, it was a few of them. Isolated events that could be looked past and moved on from. But as the heat continued to rise, more bubbles formed. More rampant disruptions to the water's surface. Continuing to grow more and more and more until... the water spilled out and the boiling could no longer be ignored.

With Arthur, that moment happened during an act of kindness from (Y/n).

They had been begging him to stay in for the night. To calm down for just a moment. Take a night without the business or the drugs or the drinking or whatever other self-destructive behavior that he seemed compelled to take part in.

Arthur couldn't seem to take being worried about so much. "Oh, just shut up!"

(Y/n) did as he said. Not because they wanted to. Merely because they were stunned. Polly, who had been in the doorway due to a desire to stop the shouting, was just as shocked.

"I don't need your fucking help! Stop acting like you're my kid! Just fucking go!"

There was a long moment of silence.

After the words finally set in, (Y/n) turned around and walked out of the room. Polly moved aside with no question, not wanting to put the kid through any more pain and difficulty.

Polly waited for the distinct sound of a slamming door before speaking up, "I hope you're proud of yourself, Arthur."

"Shut up-"

"Don't try to tell me what to do,' she cut him off. "That child waited for you every night. They were terrified of this exact reaction."

"Not my kid, not my problem-"

"That is bullshit, Arthur, and you know it."

Arthur clenched his jaw.

"That child grew attached to you for a year before going through years of not knowing if you were ever coming back or not. You are going to look me in the eye and tell me that you don't care for (Y/n) as you would for your own child?"

Still no response.

"Go and fix your mess, Arthur. Too much has gone wrong for you to ruin this too."

Arthur almost refused. He stood there, stubborn but silent. Polly didn't pay his refusal much mind, instead turning around and walking away from him.

There were a few more minutes of Arthur's hesitation before he let out a sigh and started walking.

He didn't truly know where to start looking for (Y/n). After those years away, he didn't know them as well as he would have wanted to. Habits and passions and hiding spots all felt largely unknown to him.

His time searching was also a time for him to think about what he had done and how to fix it. It left him with even more guilt than before.

When he finally found (Y/n), they were sitting in the private room at the Garrison. They were sitting with their legs on the bench and their head resting against the wall. They saw him as soon as he walked in and moved to sit properly.

"Hey, kid," Arthur said, awkwardly standing next to the closed door.

"Hi," (Y/n) muttered.

A sigh escaped Arthur before he stepped forward and sat down on the seat separate from (Y/n). The two of them stayed silent for a little while longer.

(Y/n) wanted to say something. Anything. They just couldn't. They knew that when Arthur initially took them in, it was meant to be more of an apprentice and a mentor than anything else. But after a year and after waiting, they thought that they were more important than that. After what Arthur had said, they were being forced to rethink everything that they had known.

"I'm sorry," Arthur murmured. "For everything. What I said and the shit I've been doing... I'm sorry."

"It's alright," (Y/n) shook their head. "You were right-"

"No," he stopped them. "No, no. I was a fucking asshole. And I was wrong."

(Y/n) looked down for a moment.

"I'll make it better. I'll fix this. I swear. Tell me what to do. I'll do it."

Arthur continued rambling about how badly he had messed up and asking (Y/n) to tell him how to fix it. For the second time in the same day, (Y/n) was rethinking everything. And the rambling was only making it worse.

"Stop," (Y/n) finally said. "Stop, please."

Arthur furrowed his eyebrows.

"I just... I don't want to think about this right now. Please."

"I'm sorry," he moved from his seat to the booth next to (Y/n).

"I know, I know," they ran their hands over their face. "Can we just talk about this tomorrow? Please."

He nodded to them. "And until then? Want me to leave you alone?"

"No, no, don't," (Y/n) grabbed Arthur's arm as if he had made any attempt to leave. He hadn't. "Can we just stay here for a bit? Just sit here?"

Another nod. "Of course, we can."

He relaxed into the booth a bit, letting the conversation drift into silence.

The first non-tense silence they had shared in ages.

And for the very first time, there was just a little bit of hope.

And that was the most important thing.

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Author's Note: I'm not cussing enough in this.

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[xstarxgazerx]

Speed dating. Astrid organized these more than once. Some nights were to help long-standing clients, while others were more of an auction for one charity or another. Tonight was a little different. The only part that she would be taking in this event would be as a participant. Most people looked like they’d been forced to attend or maybe even uninterested at best, but she thought this would be fun. Did she think that she was going to find her soulmate in a five minute introduction? No, but that didn’t mean that she wasn’t excited for the adventure of it all. Settling herself onto the stool, she flattened her hands against her skirt, smoothing away the wrinkles as she waited for her first date.

As other people found their numbers and went to the correlating tables, she took a moment to look around the room. It only took a moment to realize she was looking around with the eye of an event planner, and the moment recognition hit, she shook her head to derail that train of thought. Crossing her legs, she leaned against the tabletop and looked at the decorations laid out, trying and failing not to listen to the things the people around her were talking about. It all seemed like the usual introductory, surface conversations that most people entertained. The couple seated right behind her seemed to be having a heated conversation but before she could really catch any of the details the sound of the chair dragging out against the floor across from her pulled her focus back to her own table. Her smile spread across her features as she looked up to meet her first date.

“Well well well, look at what we have here.” The way he looked at her made her feel like he was surveying a piece of land for purchase. Trying to ignore the way it made her skin crawl, she forced her smile to remain as she reached across the table to shake his hand. “Hi, I'm Astrid.” He looked at her hand as if she had just handed him the keys to the kingdom, and the struggle to not immediately pull it back was just the first of many. Five minutes. She could handle this for five minutes… looking at the timer, she amended the thought; three minutes and fifty-eight seconds. Never did she think she would be so grateful for someone being late.

The way his fingers encased her hand reminded her of a snake coiling around her palm, but the worst part was the way he pulled it closer to him until she was practically leaned over the table. When his lips pressed against the skin against the back of her hand, she forced her smile wider as she tugged on her hand. Her attempt to get the appendage back only made him tighten his grip, and she had to consciously fight back the trauma response it triggered. “I would offer to let you sit on my lap for this date, but I don't want the other women here to think they don't have a chance.” Disgusted with his entire demeanor, she yanked her hand back, tucking it under the table so he wouldn't see her wiping it against her skirt. “Since there are only two minutes left, why don't you have a seat and tell me your name?”

A smile should be a comfort, but the way it spread across his face felt like a net being set to trap her. “Already trying to lock me down? I don't think that's fair to the other women in this room, but if you want me to meet you somewhere after this, I could be talked into it.” Az leaned back in her seat, trying to put as much distance between them as possible. This guy seemed like the biggest overconfident douchebag she had ever laid eyes on, but she knew just how much scarier this situation could be if she wasn't careful. “Name's Jake. Jake Drake.” She was scrambling to think of anything to say that wouldn't come across as interested while still going through the motions but was saved as the microphone came on and it was announced that it was time to switch partners. “Until later, Astrid.” His wink before leaving was met with an eye roll just before looking for the exit. Maybe she could slip out before the next person sat down. They might never even notice she was gone…

[erdekrieger]

Eternal Hearts - Snippet of a potential story

Had I known would happen five years ago, I might have chosen to join the guard instead of taking over the family farm. Despite the strangeness of the events, I wouldn't trade what has happened for anything.

The morning was rather crisp, a sign that winter was well on it's way just after the harvest had finished. I had gone to tend to the hogs and boars, when a strange wind bellowed about the farm. Knowing that it was likely some large winged beast, I prepared my magics for defending my homestead. However prepared I was, I had been wrong in my assumptions. Landing before me was a silver scaled dragon, the most proud of all dragons. Despite the awe inspiring sight, my breath was taken by the being on it's back. A young maiden about my age in appearance was sitting comfortably in traditional garments of some long dead court.

"Mortal!" the dragon bellowed within my thoughts. "Take this failure from me, and teach her the ways of your pathetic kind. She is no longer welcome in the draconic court for her transgression. Do with her as you will."

As he said this, he lifted the maiden from his back and set her beside me with his magic. Before I could think to reply, the winds gusted once more as he flew away in what seemed to be a hurry. Perhaps he had been commanded to do this by the Dragon King, or so it seemed from his movements.

"Excuse me, sir. Are you my new papa?" The maiden's childish words snapped me from my thoughts and drew my attention back to her. "Mama said I was going to a new home, and my caretaker just left. Does that make you my new caretaker, or papa in the mortal tongue?"

Her question left me stunned, that is until I burst out laughing at the thought of such a thing. "Well, if you really want to be my daughter, you would have to take on a younger form first."

She glared at me for a moment before huffing and turning away. "How rude of you to suggest such a thing! I was just asking something simple." The pale blue skirt swished lightly around her ankles, revealing leggings before settling back into place.

"Madam, I am but a simple farmer tending to his livelihood. What manners would I have as a mere mortal before a dragon maiden?"

"M-maiden?" Her eyes flashed their true draconic colors as she whirled to face me. "How dare you call me that! I am- was a proud silver dragon of the Dragon Court! Who are you to call me a maiden?"

A sigh escaped my lips as I shook my head. "While you were once a dragon, you clearly failed the trials. I suggest you lose that pride, before it causes harm to either of us."

"What do you know, mortal? I am more powerful than you, so show me the respect I deserve as a dragon!"

"I became a mortal willingly! While I would've enjoyed immortality before meeting my parents, I have since learned lessons that seem to be needed for you."

Silence existed for a moment as she processed, but once it sank in her face paled. "What were you before? An elf? Maybe even a demon!" Her thoughts showed plainly on her face as she started to worry.

"Madam, I was once a mimic of noble status. Do not compare me to the primitive elves, and especially not the barbaric demons!" Taking a shaky breath I turned to continue my duties. "Now, follow me and observe what I do. You'll need to earn your keep whilst here, or I will find someone else to give you to."

"Can a mimic really give up their powers like that?" Even if the question was meant to be harsh, her tone of voice were too soft for it to cut me.

Sighing seemed to something I would do a lot now, as I felt myself breath out yet another. "Only those capable of replacing the Emperor Mimic can. My progenitor was the last, but I did not desire the power for myself." I could hear the sadness in the words I had said, and hoped I hadn't been too loud. Although they were spoken without thought, perhaps they were said too softly for her to hear.

"If you could-" Her question was obvious to me, and I felt my anger grow at the memories it drew up. Painful memories of ma and pa asking me to very same thing even on their deathbeds.

"Even if I could return to being a mimic, what purpose is there to living an eternal life with no companion to share it with?" My voice was raised in anger, but towards myself for the longing to change shape once more. Taking a moment to let go of the anger, I started to walk towards the feeding trough of the boars I kept.

"Well, what if I were to be that companion?" My feet paused as I heard her quiet plea. "Papa once told me that if I failed, I'd live like a mimic. That if I kept failing as a dragon, my powers would slowly wilt as I became an immortal monster wearing mortal flesh. What if we found a way to share an eternal life beside each other?"

Tears welled up in my eyes as I realized that among dragons she was but a child, despite looking like an adult. "I might know of a way to return my powers, although it'll take years to regain my peak. Although, you must promise that we will only become friends if we can stand each other's failings."

I could hear her tears in her voice as she spoke in response. "I, I promise! As long as we stay by each other's side, I'll deal with anything you put me through!"

That's how our lives together started, and over the years we have gotten closer. My powers have finally been returned to me, so I will teach her to better change her shape as she desires. Perhaps that will help her retain her powers better, but it'll definitely help me return to my peak. Who knows, she might be my reason to grow stronger and finally claim the seat that has vacant for a thousand years.

[h-pelessly]

August 13, 2023

Last night, I attended a wedding, Christy and Vincent's to be more specific. Christy is my cousin, who I was shocked to be honest when I saw her because I haven't seen her. But the wedding last night evinced that I'm not ready for a wedding.

When we first got there, there was people lining up and I was so confused but then we got sat in the freaking back with some randoms and I was like well... this is gr8. But my dad was USELESS-- just going around to talk to people and start his behavior of drunkiness. But it was my mom who got us to the front of the venue to sit with our family members. I do have a bone to pick her because she made me say hi to everyone and that IRRITATED me so freaking much. I was like... pls leave me the FUCK alone. And there was a lady who I think visited me in the hospital so she had some relation to me, but she was holding me there and I really had to pee, and my father did not help me so I just stood there for a solid 5 minutes listening to her talking whilst being held against my will. And I was terrified. Honestly everyone and everything terrified me so idk what I'm even talking about. There was an open bar, but people were lining up and the line was abnormally long so I was f it we shall wait until after. Which I was glad I got what I got bc I would've not liked anything. Irregardless...

From the speeches, I found out they have been dating for 9 years, which everyone said was a long time but like they only have one year on us. No idea how old they are, but they only have one year on us and the people who did speeches said that was a long time so like.... that kind of terrifies me. The side of our family was being loud and obnoxious which was to be honest kind of annoying and disrespectful, but I'm pretty sure they were drunk so there's no use talking some sense into them. Also, I'm pretty sure they wouldn't take any direction from a lil girl with an opinion so it doesn't matter. All the speeches, I'm pretty sure, the speakers were intoxicated which was honestly kind of funny, but I get it. I would too if I was up there. There was the shoe ceremony that I thought of Tim because I was like we would do amazing on this. But the whole idea of marriage scares me. So when I finally got around to the bar, I got myself a White Claw (peach is amazing). I got it after awhile when I should've gotten it at the beginning bc my anxiety did really settle down. So I came to the realization that a whole white claw makes me into a normal human being. I wasn't AS afraid anymore. I wore heels to the event and as annoyed as I was the entire time, they broke on me (thankfully???) but I was forced to walk barefoot, which was kind of gross tbh but I didn't want to wear the heels. And I did bring slides, but they were FUCKING NIKE SLIDES. Anyways, my parents made me get it so I ended up wearing them. Honestly I was kind of embarrassed, but also, I didn't really care. None of those people knew me, though most of them are family, I don't come around a lot so it didn't matter. I saw a bunch of people wearing shoes and I was like imagine if I knew I could wear shoes bro. Like that would've fixed a LOT of my problems.

Well we had to sit around for 4 hours and I didn't read bc I'm pretty sure I couldn't focus anyway, and when it was time to leave, my dad drove. He did drink, which I was kind of scared, but so did me and my mom. I mean my mom didn't as much, but my dad drove anyway. He wasn't like blatantly drunk so he seemed fine. We made it home safely, and idk it was a wild social event. I hate it here. And I have 3 more events lined up for this month and I'm regretting everything. So maybe if it gets super bad, I know I can rely on a peach white claw lmao.

[bejoomi]

( cw: depression )

joomi considers staying home sick from training every day these days. 4:30 am is too early to wake up alone, to train alone, to go home alone, alone, alone, alone. he's happy for ren and dohyun, and that they'll get to show more of their skills and what good people they are on this next season of next gen. he just misses them, and he wishes he was with them instead of stuck training by himself. or with jinyoung, which still feels like he's training by himself, half the time.

he keeps thinking – he used to be so alone for most of his life. why does it feel worse now than it's ever been? why does he feel like he's never been so empty? is it just the contrast between all of the love and joy that colored his life and returning to familiar shades of gray? maybe that's it. before, he felt the absence of something, but he never felt like he lost something. it's different now.

he tells himself he should be grateful he got to experience any of the joy at all, regardless of the pain of losing it, and he is. sometimes he wonders if it would be easier, though, if he just never knew it; if his life just stayed monochrome. no next gen, no dead calm, no studio delta, no jinyoung. just...gray.

he knows he doesn't really mean it, though, when he thinks of dead calm. he could never take them back or regret them. maybe, if he is cursed enough to relive this life, he wouldn't love jinyoung, and he would skip out on being a delta trainee, but he can't imagine a life where he would ever decide dead calm wasn't worth it. and it's like all of the most important events in his recent history are so closely linked: no dead calm without next gen, no studio delta without dead calm, no loving jinyoung without all of the rest of it.

it doesn't matter, anyway. this is the life he's been dealt, and this is the way things are now: shitty. he knows, next gen will end in a couple months and ren and dohyun will return, and maybe jinyoung will come back to life again soon. it's all temporary, but knowing that doesn't make the present hurt any less.

he's hoping time with kian will, though. it took a lot to get himself here, too, instead of just going to work and going home and going to sleep, rinse, repeat. he knows he deserves better than just surviving every day until something changes, and kian is...family. the closest thing he has to it, really.

sitting in the music store again after so long puts into perspective how much has changed in the past year. i miss you, kian says, and joomi feels it in his chest. he doesn't say anything, though; just listens as kian reminisces, and smiles, soft and close-lipped, as he recalls the memories himself.

"no reason to. you were having fun," he explains unnecessarily. "plus, i always liked hearing you sing." joomi has always felt like he could hear kian's passion when he sings: so sincere, so full of love, so warm; so kian, just in the form of a melody, and joomi loves kian, really.

kian settles against his shoulder, snakes an arm around him, and joomi feels...like he can breathe a little easier. it's nice. somehow, it makes everything feel more real, which is both good and bad, because the sadness feels more real, too.

he lets his head flop against kian's. what have you been up to? this is where joomi would usually fib and say not much, and flash kian a smile, and turn the subject around on him, ever the reliable older brother. somehow, he doesn't have the heart for it today.

"you don't wanna know what's happening in my head," he chuckles instead.

OLDTIME'S SAKE 김기안 → 정주미

honestly, this moment is making kian feel kind of emotional. while he realizes it's silly for his eyes to feel misty right now, there's something about being reacquainted with the shop after being away from it for so long, and what's more is that he's sitting amongst the instruments with his old pal, joomi, who he hasn't seen in awhile due to their very demanding schedules. all of this feels so normal, so ordinary. it feels like childhood, like the simpler times of spending his afternoons doing inventory or assisting the shop's devoted clientele with their needs. he won't lie, he misses it, but at the same time, he's excited to be working toward accomplishing his lifelong goal.

not wanting to startle his comrade, he does his best to swallow the lump in his throat and keep it together. though, he has an inkling that joomi wouldn't be at all surprised if he started crying right now. it'd be very much in his character to do so.

"i miss you," he speaks simply, leaning his head against a large shelf loaded with collectible vinyls. while there are chairs that they could be sitting on, kian felt like it'd be nostalgic for them to occupy the floor instead. hopefully joomi doesn't mind. it's actually pretty comfy, believe it or not. "i remember when we'd stay up really late and you'd play me songs, and i'd try to sing along to them right away even if i didn't know the melody, much less the words, and even though i was probably annoying, i don't remember you ever getting mad at me…"

his brows furrow in thought as he scans his brain for the memories, and though he doesn't come up with a specific date and time, he remains stuck dwelling on it for awhile before continuing. "you're kind of the coolest for that. you could've easily, like, smacked me on the back of the head and told me to shut up, but you never did." though he's managed to keep his tears at bay, his sentimentality is still sky high. it's impossible for him to conceal that. his heart can never be removed from his sleeve.

scooting closer to him, kian leans his head on joomi's shoulder and snakes an arm around his back. smiling, he loves that he still fits in this particular spot pretty perfectly, even after growing a little taller over the years. "what have you been up to? like, besides training, i guess. i know we don't get a lot of time outside of it, but i don't know. i really just wanna know about what's going on in your life; what's happening in your head and all that."

[clavissionary-position]

Imagine Jean and Gilles during the war, sitting around camp one night. Jean's been quiet all evening, lost in his personal hell, and although Gilles spends the first half hour or so trying to cheer Jean up, to get him to eat something, he eventually gives up and settles for kicking the rocks around at his feet. The camp falls into silence save for the crackling of the flames and distant drunken chatter from the other soldiers.

Then suddenly Gilles notices something out of the corner of his eye.

"Jean..." He grabs Jean's shoulders and shakes him. "Jean! Look up! Look!'

Gilles' excitement finally seems to break Jean from his stupor. He follows Gilles' finger to see what he's pointing at. When his gaze fixes on it, his lifeless expression flickers almost imperceptibly. The event in the sky lasts only a handful of moments, but Jean's already on his feet.

Gilles cries after him in surprise as Jean hurtles out of the camp. He jumps up and runs after Jean, nearly tripping over their cookware in the process.

Even in the near pitch-dark outside the camp, Jean expertly navigates the terrain in a way that puts Gilles in awe of what little of Jean's silhouette he can make out. It's athletic prowess, it's elegance, it's angelic grace. He has to push his legs and stamina to their very limit just to catch up him.

When he does, he finds Jean standing in a clearing surrounded by the craggy forms of rock outcroppings. The night sky is even clearer out here than it was in the camp.

"Gilles, did you see where it went?"

"The star?"

Jean snaps his eyes to Gilles. "So it was a star?"

Well, uh..." Gilles awkwardly scratches the back of his head. "One of my tutors says it's probably not an actual star, but... Were you chasing it?"

"Of course. Someone could have been hurt." Jean hops atop one of the outcroppings to survey the horizon. "I don't see or hear anything though."

Gilles' heart lurches from the genuine concern in Jean's voice. He knows Jean will worry all night if not all week. And he almost regrets bringing Jean's attention to the shooting star in the first place.

"I've never seen anything like it," Jean says after another minute of silence. This time his voice holds a hint of child-like wonder. A kind of innocence that Gilles hadn't seen in Jean since before they came to the battlefield.

Gilles smiles as he climbs up to sit down on the rock at Jean's feet. "Wish for peace."

Jean looks down at him. "What?"

"They say if you wish on a shooting star, you'll get that wish." Gilles tilts his head. "Though, you have to make the wish while it's still in the sky."

Jean doesn't say anything for a long moment and Gilles is unable to read the silence.

Finally Jean gives a derisive laugh and sits down beside Gilles. "If peace were that easy to wish for, I think we'd already have it, non?"

Gilles takes out his waterskin and hands it to Jean. "Or maybe no one else in the world wants it as badly as you do."

"I would hope that isn't the case." Jean takes a tiny swig, then he throws the waterskin at Gilles' face.

"Hey! What-"

"It's empty."

"Ah..."

This next swathe of silence is more comfortable. It stretches until Gilles catches Jean staring at him. He's grateful for the dark that makes it impossible for Jean to see the warmth on his cheeks. Or maybe Jean can see it anyway. That wouldn't surprise him.

"Merci," Jean says, leaving it at that, and Gilles can hear the smile that he can't see.

Thank you for caring, even if that affection is wasted on me.

And maybe this is the memory that sits in Jean's heart on that evening when you trick him into letting you become his caretaker by lying about a shooting star.

---

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