#so no I don’t think Cory is perfect | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

joelsmochi · 2 years ago

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Be The Boss - Javier Peña

loosely (actually extremely) inspired by the song you can be the boss by lana del rey �� i woke up with this idea and immediately got to writing, i love you smut sluts <3 hope you enjoy :3 this is also all lowercase ! i'm thinking of making a part 2... >:)

plot: ofc genie stumbles across javier in more places than one, and they... can't get enough of each other.

warnings: SIMP!javi, language, soulmates trope, mention of drug use, reader is a bit of a javi apologist (i meannnnn), creampie, fingering (f receiving), oral (f receiving), some angst, mentions of death, choking, office sex, public sex, chance of getting caught, sex with other people nearby (not involved), i may have flexed the timeline of the story a bit + steve is there during the cali cartel job (just for storytelling purposes), prob typos + grammatical errors (english & spanish). lmk if i missed anything pls!!!

wc: 9.1k

masterlist

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those blue jeans and that white button-up shirt had genie fanning herself since she walked into the supermarket, but what kept making it worse was that the universe seemed to be forcing the two adults into the same aisle. she’d purposefully skip an aisle she needed to go down and circle back later only to find he still spawned wherever she went.

not like she was too awfully mad though. she knew it was just a mere coincidence, or maybe he found her attractive too. maybe she was the one following him, and not the other way around. maybe she was just reading into it too much — this happens often. you know when you go grocery shopping and can’t seem to get away from another customer? maybe that’s all this was. maybe.

later that night she decided to take her friend's boyfriend’s offer up to get out and go to a bar with them, and since she was feeling a little sad that the man from the market never approached her even though she was too bashful to do it herself, she needed a pick me up. third-wheeling with her friend and her boyfriend may just be the motivation she needed to stop feeling sorry for herself.

a couple hours into the night genie was having more fun than she expected. her friend, aimee, was much more considerate than previous ones; she made sure genie felt included in the conversations and even spoiled some inside jokes just so that genie could laugh too.

playing pool, turning down pushy men for dances and drinks, and watching strangers basically have sex in the middle of the bar was more entertaining than she expected. that could just be the alcohol talking though.

she knew the universe was laughing at her, however, when the man from the market walked in with two rubios trailing behind him. genie’s eyes widened a bit, having narrowed from her tipsy state, and as if she couldn’t get more tense at that moment he made eye contact with her. she pretended to be confident about it and gave him a sweet smile while waving. he frowned for a second trying to remember where he’d seen her before.

the pretty girl in the pretty sundress from the market.

he gave genie a half smile and waved back before glancing as his shoes briefly and walking back to his friends.

“go talk to him!” aimee smacked genie’s arm over enthusiastically. “if you don’t i’m dragging him to the table.”

genie laughed knowing she is 100% serious. “i will, just let him settle in for a few minutes. can’t seem like a groupie,” genie bargained.

“who is that?” aimee’s boyfriend, cory asked while eyeing the trio from across the room.

“no idea,” she admitted, “we just kept bumping into each other at the market earlier. i think he was eyeing me, but i didn’t wanna just stare so i don’t know. seems like he recognized me though.”

“well, duh, you’re fucking hot,” aimee exaggeratedly compliments. “especially when you wear those sundresses, your ass looks so big and juicy in those i’m literally jealous.”

“please, you’re literally built like jane fonda, and everyone knows that jane fonda has the perfect ass. i’m jealous of you.”

“can we not talk about how you two basically want to fuck each other when i’m right here?” cory grimaces, but genie could see the smile creeping on his face indicating he was joking.

“awe, if i wanted her i’d have her already,” genie teased.

“she’s right,” aimee confirmed. the two best friends began laughing loudly at cory’s expense when they heard a voice from beside the table.

“perdóname.” [excuse me].

genie turned her head and met eyes with the moreno, grinning widely at his seemingly timid presence. “¿cómo puedo ayudarte?” [how can i help you]

“no tengo mucho tiempo, pero, lo quería darte esto.” he extended a cigarette out to the brunette; she admired how his harsh features softened at the sight of her for a moment, ultimately taking it from his slender fingers with a confidence that she forced yet seemed natural to everyone surrounding. [i don't have much time, but i wanted to give you this]

“gracias. acabas de llegar, ¿no?” [thank you. you just got here, no]

“claro, pero el trabajo llama.” [of course, but work calls]

genie nodded once clearly not believing him as a sly smirk tugged the corners of her lips while she fiddled with the cigarette. she turned it over quickly finding his phone number sloppily written on it. “¿trabajo, sí?” [work, huh]

“what’s he saying?” cory asked; aimee shushes him and genie ignored him, finding herself aiming to maintain the eye contact she held with the handsome stranger.

“¿llámame? salvo que no quieras.” [call me? unless you don’t want to]

“¿cómo debería llamarme?” she was poking at his boundaries which was something she found herself doing often. she loved to laugh and joke, so it was important to her to test those waters. [what should i call you]

he squints, unsure of what exactly she was asking until it dawned on him. “javier. javi.”

“javi,” she tutted after saying his name a way to tease him making him just bashfully smile. “bien. te daré una llamada, javi.” they exchange goodbyes and she turned back to her friends. [good. i’ll give you a call]

“i got javier,” the boy says, “that’s about it.”

“he just wanted me to have his number, that’s all,” genie said.

“are you about to have your first summer fling, genie?!” aimee nearly shouted in attempt to make her blush (which worked every time). “i want every juicy detail when you taint him.”

“you’re lucky i love you.”

genie waited a few days to give this javi a phone call. she didn’t want to seem too eager or desperate as she typically enjoyed waiting until men begged for attention.

but when she did decide to call it was like he had been posted by the phone for the last seventy-two hours because he picked up on the second ring.

“¿bueno?” [hello]

“¿javier?” she asked much more softly than she intended. unbeknownst to her the delicacy in her voice made him weak in the knees.

“sí, ¿eres la mujer del bar?” [yeah, are you the woman from the bar]

“mhm, soy yo,” she answered. she grabbed the phone from the console table and brought it around the corner to sit in her chair by her big kitchen window; the weather was perfect for her: sunny with some big clouds here and small clouds there, not too humid or dry. she just watched the leaves dancing between the wind and focused on how peaceful the world seemed from inside her temporary home. [it’s me]

“nunca supe tu nombre,” he replied while inhaling sharply as he took a hit of his cigarette, “¿cómo se llama, dulzura?” [you never told me your name / what’s your name sweetheart]

she couldn’t fight the laugh that surfaced from the base of her throat as the nickname surprised her. “¿dulzura? mmm, no me hagas colgar, javi.” [sweetheart? don’t make me hang up]

“¿qué?” he laughed along with her, “tenía que llamarte algo, ¿no?” [what? i had to call you something]

“¿me llamaste así a tus amigos?” [you called me that to your friends]

“¿no te gusta? okay, okay, veo.” [you don’t like it? i see]

“no, no es que me no guste. es simplemente… sorprendente, eso.” [no, it’s not that i don’t like it. it’s simply surprising, that’s all]

neither of them could swallow their smiles behind their receivers. they talked for hours, and she still managed to keep her name a secret for the time being. he quickly got in the habit of calling her dulzura and it grew on her just as fast. the way spanish flowed off of his tongue made her cave deeper and deeper into her chair, having to “readjust” her legs a few times to resist her urges to tell him how sexy his was.

“javier…”

his throat was straining from all the talking and laughing they were doing but he ignored it by inhaling cigarette after cigarette. “¿sí, mama?” he cooed quietly.

the way the new little nickname from his lips gave her goose skin and a flushed face, and she was thankful he wasn’t in front of her in that moment because she just might have giving up on her wait and see rule.

“tengo que ir, tengo que ayudar a mi amiga mañana. pero… fue encantador hablar contigo.” [i have to go, i have to help my friend in tomorrow. but it was lovely talking with you]

“yo veo. voy a despertarme temprano mañana también. una cosas más.” [i see. i gotta get up early tomorrow as well. one more thing]

she giggled, somehow already knowing what he was going to ask about. “me llama genie.” [my name is genie]

“genie… ya has hecho realidad mi deseo, dulzura,” he flirted. [you’ve already made my wish come true, sweetheart]

“obtienes dos más, cariño,” she teased. it wasn’t the first time someone used her name as punchline in attempt to flirt with her, and it sounded just as corny coming from javi. the only difference was that she liked it coming from him because he wasn’t trying to hide how bad the joke was, whereas most men try to make it sound original as if they’re fucking poetic legends. javi knew he made stupid jokes and didn’t shy away from it. he didn’t try to put on some stupid façade (at least not with her). [you have two more, love]

“¿dos deseos más? debe ser mi día de suerte.” [two more wishes? it must be my lucky day]

genie gave him a sweet giggle, whispering, “hasta luego, javi.” [later]

“buenas noches, genie.” [good night]

it was like night and day, her first impression of javier was that he was just some man trying to find his way in life, in colombia. she got a real glimpse of him tonight: they got to the bar about an hour ago, and to the other men nearby it was like javier wasn’t even there. they’d stroll up to the table and flirt, hard.

she was trying to be polite and avoid a scene by saying thank you, but i’m not interested or i’m here on a date with this gentleman, but there are other pretty girls around who i’m sure are single.

after the fourth guy, though, javi became noticeably irritable, and well… lost his temper at the fifth guy. genie told herself that they were lucky to not get kicked out after javi’s already bruised fist knocked the other man flat on his skinny ass, but it shook her a bit. a man so sweet and so kind to her yet so violent with others. as fucked up as it was she found it a bit of a turn on, but couldn’t help but wonder if maybe one day he’d lose his temper with her.

all her worries swam away when he sat back down and apologized, a look of pure embarrassment pooling his eyes.

“sorry, i don’t know what took over me,” he whispered, “if you want to go home that’s perfectly fine—“

“javi,” she cooed, “you’re fine.” and she meant it. she not only saw his resentfulness, she felt it radiating off of him. she didn’t want the night to be spoiled by some fuckers who lacked respect. “honestly if every girl was coming up here asking you for a buck and a blowjob i’d probably punch one of them too. no, i would do it.”

“you’re not mad?”

she scrunched her face up and grabbed her drink, raising it to her lips and sipping before she said, “fuck no. well, not at you. it’s not like this is our first real date, anyways. the real one will come soon, i hope.” she gave him a tight smile that showed off parts of her teeth showing javi that she was hopeful and willing to try again. “ugh, i hate saying that.”

“what?” he took a swig of his whiskey.

“‘it’s not our real first date.’ god, that just sounds like i’m crapping on this.”

“no it doesn’t. that’s what we said this was, right? not a first date? just two new friends hanging out?”

she snickered at him. “uh-huh, do two friends just hanging out get jealous and possessive over each other?”

he rolled his eyes wonderingly and bit back a smile. “you know what i mean.”

“sureee i do… then you won’t mind if i go out there and dance, hmm?” she pointed behind herself with her thumb. she wanted to toy with him a little to see what kind of man he was so that she knew how to navigate him.

she only received a squinting glare in response as he asked her to elaborate with his eyes, so she ever so slightly rose up from her chair to lean over the table. his face relaxed at her close proximity, maintaining eye contact with the vixen before him.

“for other guys? since we’re just friends right now, that won’t bug you, right?” she gave him no time to respond as she gave him a kiss so endearing that it swept his mind clear of any thoughts that didn’t include her. she almost moaned at the lingering taste of whiskey and cigarettes on his lips, craving him even more now. the kiss felt like an escape from all of her troubles. she only needed this moment of control and then he could have the rest of her — something she’d never give to anyone else. the kiss was over before it even began, and he found himself simpering for her. “can i go dance for other guys, javier?”

he could only nod like a coward.

javi watched how her thighs glowed underneath the yellow lights as she danced shamelessly in the bar they first met in. he couldn’t take his eyes off of her in the white sundress with her blow dried hair flowing around her shoulders and cheekbones. she wasn’t drunk, no, not even tipsy so he knew that she was just a free spirit with the way she was acting, she spoke her mind and let her body express itself uncaring of the other people in the bar that stared.

he liked the fact that other men were staring at her because even though she was dancing where everyone could watch, she was only dancing for javi to see. he also enjoyed it when a man would approach her and she would just dance her body away from them as it confirmed her growing loyalty to him.

sure she’d forgiven his lack of self control earlier, but now he knows that he doesn’t need to act out to get her attention because he already has it. he didn’t quite understand what was so intriguing about genie, but he wanted to explore her depths (and not just in a sexual way).

he stood up to strut over to her after drinking the rest of his whiskey; he clasped his arms around her waist from behind and took in a deep breathe of her sweet perfume which contrasted the woodsy perfume he noticed her wearing when he gave her his number. he planted a needy but light kiss on the curve where her neck met her shoulder, pressing his hips into her butt firmly before swaying and bouncing with her to the upbeat song.

“people are staring at you, dulzura,” he whispered huskily onto her ear lobe. “these men think you’re single. can’t have that.”

she couldn’t help the cocky grin that spread across her face. “i saw the way you were looking around the room, smiling like you own the place…” she turned around in his tight grasp staring into his territorial eyes with an innocent, but knowing look. “like you own me.”

“i don’t own you, darlin’,” he says monotonously, not even the slightest hint of humor behind his tone, “but i do control you. at least for the night.”

“you can be the boss, daddy.”

she watched the surprise waiver his once stern expression and rather than playing her usual confident self she couldn’t ignore what he said.

i do control you.

she wanted to let him take the reigns on this one and see what javier peña was all about. after all, wait and see was far out of the window at this point.

she just pouts with her eyes and brows and folds her lips between her teeth like she had no idea the effect she had on him. she felt his warm hand slide down to the small of her back, gripping into the clothed skin desperately while he hissed at her facial expression and her dumb eyelashes batting up at him.

she filled him with what felt like so much destitution it was beginning to irritate him. the wanting to take it slow. the giggles and smiles. the dresses—god, he just craved fucking her in that little white sundress. how so much woman fit into one person was beyond him, but he looked at her like she was god created just for him.

yeah… waiting wasn’t happening.

the two of them ran out to his car like a pair of schoolchildren, and javi almost hit other cars or pedestrians at least twice on the way back to his apartment. she just laughed and told him to slow down, the few shots of dark liquor she had getting to her carefulness a bit.

next thing they knew they were naked on the couch, just kissing. that’s all they needed to do. just feel each other’s impure warmth. their lips were far beyond numb but they still went at it. she clung to him like wet on water, and he held her close with his sturdy forearms atop his lap while she rocked her hips occasionally. she poured every moan into his salivating mouth and he swallowed them with pride.

they were in no rush to have sex, they just wanted to need each other for a little bit. their craving for each other exceeded physical intimacy and stretched into every curve of their being as they wept onto each other. she giggled every time she felt more of her juiced pool onto his erection that was nestled between her legs and curved up to her ass. he loved her moans and her giggles and her smiles so much that he found himself smiling with her more than he had with his recent partners.

“javi?” she asked softly after finally pulling away from their hour-long kiss. he hummed and looked at her through his low eyelashes, seemingly drunk off of her kisses. “¿crees que podemos esperar un poco más?” [do you think we can wait a little longer]

he frowned, feeling a tad offended that she seemed a little scared to ask him that. “sí, dulzura. no tienes que preguntar.” he pinched her chin lightly and dragged his fingers around her soft face. [you don’t have to ask]

“no quería asumir.” [i don’t want to assume]

he offered her a loving smile and brought one of her hands up to his lips. “yo puedo esperar, mama.” [i can wait]

she blushed at the compassionate stare he was giving her and rewarded him with a tender kiss on his lips and another one to his forehead. “¿tienes agua?” [do you have water]

“mm-hmm. solo agua de la llave.” [only tap]

she carefully stood up from his thighs and stepped from between his legs to the kitchen. “no soy exigente.” she took it upon herself to grab a couple of glasses from his cabinet and them up up halfway with lukewarm water before she peered her head to her right to find a ring sitting in a small bowl nearby. “javier?” she called, unable to take her eyes off of the jewelry. he hummed and she heard as he stood up from the couch and walked towards her. “are you married?” she asked, finally breaking her stare from the ring and looked at him. [i’m not picky]

he eyebrows knitted together and he gave her a dumbfounded look. “no, why?”

“who’s ring is that then?”

he followed her pointed thumb with his eyes and saw how the ring was perched on top of the junk bowl like a trophy. “shit,” he whispered, glancing at his floor bashfully. “uh, no, genie i am not married. i was engaged, but, i left her… the day of the wedding.”

she couldn’t tell why, but she grew worried. “why?”

shrugging, he couldn’t come up with an answer. “i’m still trying to figure that out myself… i guess i kept the ring hoping it’d give me answer,” he laughed incredulously at his confession. “that was definitely not how i wanted you to find out.”

she nodded and a sense of relief came to calm her down. “i run all the time too,” she replied, waiting a moment before holding out the glass for him to take. he found solace in her words even though he didn’t fully understand it yet. he took a lame sip of his water and set it down on the counter before closing the gap between their still feverish bodies. “we don’t need to talk about it.” her tone was so serious but her smile was playful. “we can just make out for another hour or something.”

they laughed at her suggestion, but just as javi was leaning into kiss her as an acceptance his phone rang. he rolled his eyes and groaned before walking over to answer it. genie didn’t want to eavesdrop so she just strolled over to steal a cigarette from him and walked to his bedroom to blow her smoke out of his screen-less window whilst she looked over the other apartments and the streets. she heard a few gunshots far away and poked her nosy head out to see if she saw something, and when she didn’t she just kept looking around quickly forgetting about it.

it is colombia after all.

she was almost done with her cigarette when javi made an appearance next to her also holding a cigarette.

“everything okay?” she asked, glancing up at him. he nodded and grinned down at her nipples perking up from the cool breeze. “take a picture, perv,” she teased once she realized he was staring, then kicked his calf gently.

“maybe i will, smartass.”

she shook her head and laughed indulgently as he pointed his polaroid up to her naked body that was being illuminated by the orange street lights. he laid the photo on his dresser before hugging her from behind like earlier, and he swayed their nude bodies to music that was heard playing from another house in the distance. she hummed and tossed her cigarette outside before stealing his right off of his pouted lips; he took the liberty of his mouth as opportunity to kiss her shoulders.

she wanted him so badly, but she knew it was just her wound of impatience waiting to be peeled open again. she wasn’t afraid of giving in to him. she was afraid of giving in to herself. javier didn’t make it easy at all, and he saw it, but he just couldn’t help himself.

“mi dulzura…” he breathed onto her hot flesh, trailing his lower lip up to her ear and smacking a kiss on it while his hand found the base of her stomach. she felt herself clench around nothing and moved his hand down to her clit before she could stop herself. he wanted nothing more than to make her feel good and she just gave him permission for that in some aspect. “tu coño todavía está tan mojada… tengo suerte, ¿no?” he rubbed tiny little circles around her clit the same way she would when she’d touch herself. [your pussy is still so wet. i’m lucky, huh]

“alguien podría vernos.” she worried like she wasn’t the one to initiate it. [someone could see us]

he waited a moment to respond. “que nos vean.” [so let them see]

she gave in and let him please her for the whole world to see. the pads of his fingers felt like heaven on her heat as she let go of the fear of getting caught; she leaned her head back onto his shoulder and closed her heavy eyes.

javier wanted to felt her tremble in his arms and hear her call his name. he needed to give her a reason to come back and he knew he could do that with his fingers alone. just like he said: he could wait. and he would wait for her. she was gentle and kind but fearless at the same time. he thought it was sexy the way she never cared what anyone thought of her (anyone she wasn’t familiar with anyways).

“¿te gusta?” [you like that]

she simply nodded rapidly as her chest heaved, her mind straying from reality as she sank deeper into the trap he laid with his fingers. her eyes flew open, however when she heard a group of people walking nearby. “javi,” she panicked, “deberíamos mover—“ [we should move—]

“shut up,” he whispered in her ear through gritted teeth while simultaneously wrapping his free hand around her elongated neck, “tengo esto.” [i got this]

genie moaned louder than she realized and allowed herself to no longer care after javi made his demands. if the people wanted a show then they were going to get it. “claro, después de todo… eres el jefe, papi.” [sure, after all, you’re the boss daddy]

weeks of harmony went by, and even the bad moments weren’t so bad. sometimes javier would meet genie after a shit day at work and wouldn’t be in the mood for company, but he didn’t want to push her away because of it. he still wanted her near and she saw that despite feeling like sometimes she had to walk on eggshells around him on his moody nights. she didn’t mind it too much, it was more of her still trying to learn how to read him which came with some difficulty.

he knew that when they went almost a week without seeing other and constantly missing each other’s phone calls that he was falling hard from how much he missed hearing her voice. genie filled her free time with her friends and gardening but her mind always trailed back to javi.

they’re schedules finally aligned on a tuesday; javi got the day off and wanted genie to meet his partner steve so she took it upon herself to have them over for dinner along with aimee.

“hi, i’m genie,” she introduced excitedly as she shook the man’s hand before inviting them in.

“hey, i’m steve. sorry my wife couldn’t be here tonight,” he said.

genie just waved him off. “oh, don’t worry about it. i’ll make some extra for her if that’s alright?”

“sure, thank you.”

“my friend aimee is here in the other room, feel free to make yourself at home. dinner should be ready in about an hour.” he excused himself and genie turned to javi and immediately gave him a sultry kiss. “mm, i missed you.”

he chuckled and wiped the corner of his mouth before giving her a hug. “i missed you too. how ya doing?”

“better now,” she whispered. “come help me in the kitchen?”

“not sure i can be much help.” he watched her hips bounce back and forth as she led him to her kitchen. “you have a nice home,” he commented; he walked behind her and enveloped her body into a warm hug as she stirred the sauce in her pot.

“thank you.” he gave her neck a few kisses, placed his fingers on her chin to turn her head toward him, and pecked her lips a few times. she blushed and focused on her cooking again, but javi wanted to play with her again as it had been too long since the last time he’d heard her delicious moans. “javier,” she hissed and he just slid his large hands into her tight jeans. “javi,” she laughed, “we are not having a repeat of last time.”

“you’re right, this time we’re not doing it in a window, we’re in your kitchen,” he teased after his fingers found her wetness and dove into it.

she exhaled softly and felt her nipples harden against the fabric of her shirt. “i don’t wanna mess up dinner.”

“focus on dinner then, baby, don’t think about me,” his voiced strained. she nearly laughed again but couldn’t because a moan nearly surfaced. she brought a bowl of diced onions over the pot and let them fall in as an attempt to distract herself. “i’m sure dinner will be lovely, dulzura.” his breath hitched up against her ear when he felt her clench around his fingers. “what are you making?”

“lasagna.”

“it smells good.”

“thank you—oh.” she accidentally smacked the spoon on the counter and sauce flew specks around the wall and stove. “shit!” she reached for a towel and immediately bent forward to wipe the mess up, but she only applied more pressure between her sex and his digits. he took the liberty to ram his fingers as fast as the angle would allow which had her struggling to stand straight, but she continued cleaning her mess up—well, her javi-induced mess. once she was done she put the lid on the pot and told him that she was close.

“already? seems like you needed this more than me. is that right?”

“yes,” she huffed, gripping the ledges of the countertop. “right there.”

“you’re doing so good keeping quiet.”

“me corro, me corro!” she breathed out. she swallowed every other noise that tried to leave her fragile body while her orgasm took over. it was strong and overpowering almost, unlike most of her orgasms that were slow and drawn out. she felt every bit of her climax in the span of just a few seconds but it was well worth it. [i’m cumming]

javi eased up on her fairly quickly and freed his hand, careful to not get any of her cum on her clothes. she tried to steady her body while she resumed dinner and he washed his hands before helping her trembling hands with the heavy pot. they didn’t say anything but they could not stop giggling.

“are you guys stoned or something?” aimee asked spooking the couple.

“we’re literally dea agents,” steve retorted as he stood next to her.

“eh,” genie edged receiving a warning look from javi. “are you?”

“genie,” javi hissed.

“don’t worry, i won’t tell steve about the time you and i got high before watching star wars.”

“really peña?” steve questioned accusingly.

javi gave genie’s ass a light smack, but he knew steve would ultimately forget about it so he just went back to watching genie cook.

the night went by slow which made genie happy. she got to bond with steve and aimee got to bond with javi. it was like the formation of a new, happier, stronger family for genie and she hoped everyone else felt the same way. aimee and steve teased the other two about how smitten they were being all night and how cute it was to see the love they have for each other growing. they all got a little tipsy from whiskey and wine which caused the formation of a brother-sister relationship with steve and aimee — one that javi and genie found adorable, especially with the way they bullied each other for their music tastes and political views in a chaste way.

when the night was closing in steve and aimee made their exits to their significant others and homes, and aimee naturally made the comment, “don’t be too loud now,” more than once.

as soon as they were alone, genie and javi made their debut to her room for pillow talk and cuddles having gotten their release of sexual tension out earlier.

“do you think they heard me?” genie worriedly asked.

“i think we’d know if aimee heard us,” javi quip, snickering as he did so.

“good point.”

genie admired all of his facial features which made him smile keenly. he was handsome, smart, romantic, and caring, but he was also daunting and reserved for everyone but her. she wouldn’t dare resist love from someone so sweet after she experienced a life in the absence of love. javier gave her all the smiles she needed for one lifetime already, but his desire to keep that smile on her face earned him a special place in her fragmented heart because he was making it whole again.

“do you want to keep seeing me? i’m just checking in, making sure we’re all good.” javi’s insecure tone put a frown on her face.

“i do. i like you.”

he blushed and crawled on top of her. “yeah? you like me?”

“yeah i like you a lot, papito. te quiero mucho, papito.”

he closed the space between their lips and he snaked his arms around her back. he felt closer than before to the woman below him because she forgave his sins faster than he did himself. he didn’t know what he did to get this lucky, but he refused to question one of the only good things in his life.

“te quiero, genie,” he whispered, nuzzling his nose along hers.

“me encanta la forma en que dices mi nombre… y la forma en que me besas… la forma en que me tocas. me gustas mucho, javi, no sé lo que haría sin ti.” [i love the way you say my name… and the way you kiss me… the way you touch me. i like you a lot, javi, i don’t know what i’d do without you]

days later javier ended up getting sent home for playing with the enemy, and it left genie in a state of uncertainty. part of her blamed him for the new distance placed between them but she also knew she didn’t understand everything nor did she want to. in this case ignorance was bliss for her.

they set time aside every couple of weeks to keep up with each other for phone calls and she even began considering moving back to the states to be with him, but her loyalty to beth always pushed those thoughts aside. he worried about genie often because her mental health seemed to decline with how much more she was taking care of the sick woman. he’d never ask her to stop knowing he’d do the same for his own family, but once he got put on the case for the cali cartel he knew him being there would put her in good spirits. at least he hoped so.

it had been nearly a year since they’d last seen each other and he wanted it to be a surprise. from what steve had told him she never really moved on despite javi telling her it was okay and that staying friends was best for them for the time being. it angered her how easy he seemed to want to give up, but this wasn’t a fairytale and she knew that it may have very well been years until she was able to see him again so she understood.

genie became more reclusive, only ever seeing her few friends in the foreign state. she and aimee lacked the mental drive to go out and party like they did in the earlier stages of their arrival so beth, steve, connie, and cory were the only other people they spent time with.

javi knocked on her door and as he stood there waiting for an answer he drummed his fingers over his clad thighs. would she look different? would someone else answer the door? would she not want to see him right now? all these thoughts that ran through his head a million miles per hour vanished when he saw that pretty sundress appear before him.

“javier?” she asked softly as if he were unrecognizable.

“it’s me,“ he whispered hoarsely. her beauty sucked all of the air out of him and his body turned to mush when she collided into his broad frame. “it’s me.” he clung to her and breathed her in like she was a wasting memory.

“¡te extrañé, javi! te extrañé mucho.” [i missed you]

“también te extrañé, dulzura,” he whispered into her hair. “i came to surprise you.” [i missed you too]

“come in,” she urged. she ran upstairs to her bedroom and practically dragged him with her. “i need you,” she told him breathlessly. “can i have you?” he simply pressed his soft lips to hers as permission; they ripped their clothes off of each other and she laid him on her bed. just then everything fell back into place.

all of the midday to midnight conversations they had developed meaning. there was no doubt in her mind that her waiting wasn’t pointless or a waste of time. it meant something to the both of them and they wanted to permeate it.

she reached between their bodies and gave his already hard cock a few slow strokes to build up the anticipation. “are you mine?” she asked, a hint of possession in her eyes.

he felt like his soul mended to the shape of hers, her spirit captivating every corner of his mind. he nodded helplessly. “yes,” he moaned with his eyes rolling to the back of his head.

“were you loyal to me?” she teased her entrance with his tip, sliding it in slowly.

“yes, i was l—loyal to you.” he couldn’t stop gasping; just the feeling of her slick walls around the first inch of him had him on edge. “i promise.” just then she sunk onto him without further question and felt her wetness pool around him as he stretched her out. they let out sweet moans for each other and began kissing as she bounced on him. “fuck, ya vas a hacer que me corra.” [you’re going to make me cum (already)]

she giggled, lifted herself up, then put her hands on his stomach for better balance. “dame tu leche, papi.” [give me your cum]

he threw his head back while cursing loudly, giving her plump ass a tight squeeze and refusing to let go. “necesito que me des tu leche lindo primero.” [i need you to give me your pretty cum first]

genie groaned and pinched her nipple lightly, feeling the sensitivity spiral down to her pussy. “ven aquí.” he sat up and ran his warm hands over the goosebumps on her back. “lamer mis pezones.” [come here / lick my nipples]

“yeah?” he licked a teasing strip up one of her nipples, giving her puppy dog eyes. “¿quieres que te me lama los pezones?” she hummed at his question and fluttered her eyes shut when he began sucking one and used his thumb to rub circles on the other one, his mustache grazing her skin adding to the pleasure. she continued her rhythm on top of him while he kept her steady. he felt his eyes light up at the sight of her. sweaty, eager, desperate. he knew that he never wanted to feel anyone else do this for him, and no one could make him feel nearly as good. he had to let his mind wander from time to time because of how close he was getting to cumming inside of her. he didn’t want this to end so soon. he wanted this to be the memory she touched herself to whenever he couldn’t be around. he needed the feeling of his thick cock stretching and pleasing her slick cunt to be engraved so deeply into her mind that the thought of it alone would make her cum on her own fingers. “eres tan jodidamente perfecta, mama. so fucking perfect.” [you want me to lick your nipples / you’re so fucking perfect]

she loved the way he cowered his face into her chest as a way to feel more of her and the way he kissed up her sternum until his lips met hers. he cradled her in his arms so that he could switch their positions wanting to see how good he could make her feel. he freed her face of loose hair strands and gave her tiny kisses while he started slowly inside of her, not fully inserting himself in while doing so. genie loved everything about this moment.

javi with messy hair.

how sheen and warm their bodies were from sex and not the humidity.

the cool breeze that often snuck in through the open windows.

javi worshiping her body.

how pretty her body looked under the sun.

how careful and attentive he was with her.

their heavy breathing

and moans

and pants

and whimpers.

javi knew he couldn’t hold back much longer so he pulled out to bury his face between her thighs. she let out an ungodly sound as he opened his mouth as wide as possible and sucked up everything. she clawed at his scalp with her back arching off the bed not able to form any words at the sudden sensation.

he slurped as he closed his mouth and flattened his tongue on her throbbing clit, roughly shaking his head side to side tickling the skin around her clit with his facial hair (and it drove her insane). she tried to squeeze her shaky thighs around his head but his sturdy arms wouldn’t allow that. she cried out his name and let the vibrant and warm and forceful feeling take over he flailing body. her body shook so hard the bed creaked with the headboard smacking the wall a few times. she had no time to recover when he filled her up with his throbbing length and continued her orgasm by rubbing his fingers around her wet clit.

“hazte correrme otra vez,” she pleaded. he rammed into her and held her legs up while she perched on her elbows. [make me cum again]

“¿quieres otra más? hmm,” he grunted. [you want to cum again]

“yes, fuck—fuck. you’re gonna make me cum again!” he rested on top of her, laying her flat down again. he fondled her breast briefly but moved his hand up to her cheek to caress it. “can you cum with me?” she asked; his eyelids battered down and he nodded. she felt his body jerk and she grinned at his flushed face. “¿tú estás corriendo?” [are you cumming]

“mm. mm-hmm,” he moaned, “solamente para ti.” she felt her mouth go dry and his thrusts lose a steady rhythm. his hips dug into her thighs and his cock pulsed when her pussy began convulsing against him. [just for you]

she pouted up at him when he pressed their foreheads together and felt dizzy until that one second of pure stillness carried her body up and back down to reality again. she forced her heavy eyelids open to see him in her most vulnerable state of mind as a way to let him know he had her always and forever. she held onto him tightly, letting out whimpers of overstimulation that turned into exaggerated moans when she couldn’t hold onto the feeling anymore. he got there not too long after, but instead his focus sharpened on her rather than hazed; he thrusted sloppily into her exhausted body and gave her body every last drop of cum he had saved up for her.

their breathing synchronized as they just laid together; he made sure she felt loved when he pressed a few plump kisses over her face, feeling his heart punch against his ribs every time she cooed at his lips on her damp skin.

he carried her to the bathroom so that they could shower together and they didn’t even realize neither of them said anything for the next half hour until they climbed back in bed.

“doing alright?” he asked her as he lit her cigarette up.

she smiled with her eyes and nodded, pressing her back to her headboard. “you?”

“yeah… honestly thought i was gonna have to put up more of a fight to get in bed with you,” he teased. she nudged his foot with hers and laughed. “i came back for you,” he said once the mood shifted.

“i thought about leaving beth and going to you.”

“i know. steve told me,” he admitted. “i wouldn’t want you to do that. sounds like she needs you and aimee more than ever right now.”

“yeah.”

“hey.” he held her chin then gave her a kiss. “i’m here now.” he wiped a tear that fell onto her cheek and wrapped his arm around her shoulders. “i’m here now.”

“you’re being so fucking loud right now, shut up,” genie scolded. she covered his mouth with her left hand and choked him with the other. he shook his head in protest but gave up when she resumed riding him in the office chair. he tangled his fingers in her hair and pulled even harder as he shot his release inside of her. she finished him off and they had a brief make out session before he tapped her hip.

“how much time we got?” he asked before pulling his pants up and fixing his shirt.

“uh… ten minutes."

“i bet i can make you cum in five,” he challenged.

her eyes widened and she pressed a hand to his chest. “that is a dangerous game you’re trying to play.”

“come on, can’t you make me feel like the boss here for a few minutes?”

his smile won her over and he received the biggest ego boost when she lifted the skirt to her dress. “five minutes.”

he got down on his knees and smirked at her paranoid expression. “an orgasm per minute?”

“shut up.” she pushed his face into her slippery heat, mewling at the curl of his wide fingers and flick of his thirsty tongue. “move to the left… right there.” she held his face in position and watched his tongue work miracles along her clit. the squelching of her discharge mixed with his semen around his fingers was louder than she expected, and she worried about people walking by hearing them.

javi knew how to work the divots and curves of her more than she wanted to give him credit for, and knowing how crunched they were on time he focused on the spongy hill that’d get her to her climax fast especially when combined with tongue despite how badly wanted to taste for hours.

she didn’t warn him or let out any noise other than a few deep breaths, but he could tell by the way her hips jerked on his face and the locking of her knees that she was already cumming. seconds later he felt all he had given her pool around the base of his knuckles. after removing his fingers he licked her and his fingers clean before helping fix her dress.

“come on, we’ll make out in the parking lot,” he whispered to her with that everlasting smirk that she pretended to hate.

“i am never doing that again, that was too close,” she told him once they made it to her car.

“you loved it,” he said confidently. “come ‘er.” his face carried the scent of her and it made her feel good knowing that he’d have to walk around like that for the rest of the day. they kiss until another officer makes fun of javi for becoming a one-woman man to which he just waved off. “ignore them,” he chuckled dryly. “admit that you loved it.“

genie rolled her eyes and a smile crept on her face. “you’re wrong,” she said tugging at his shirt and pulling him in, “but you’re so much fun.”

they kissed once more before saying their goodbye’s and parting ways. when javier made it back to his desk steve could tell he seemed much happier than he was an hour ago.

“fuck are you grinning for?” steve interrogated. the brunette gave him a noticeably fake look of surprise. “what? did you have genie come up here and give you a blowie?” steve huffed and leaned forward when javi’s face went pale. “dude! i was joking!” he whispered harshly.

“do not tell anyone else.”

steve muttered something under his breath but then looked back at his partner through his eyebrows. “where’d you do it?”

he smirked, leaning forward on his elbows. “go big or go home, right?”

“oh-ho-ho!” steve laughed proudly. “you dirty son of a bitch.”

“how you holding up?”

genie gave him an endearing look and said, “i’m alright. i miss her a lot already, i’m just glad i got to be with her in her final moments.” he nodded slowly at her answer, watching her pick the strawberries from her garden as they sat together in the grass. “how are you doing? you know with work?”

“i’m managing.”

she rolled her eyes from him back to the garden. “don’t do that.”

“do what?”

“i’m managing,” she mocked in a peculiar tone. “you can talk about it.”

“i don’t want you to feel like i’m ignoring your feelings, though.”

she glared at him and adjusted her posture. “i’m sad, not broken. plus, i asked because i care about you. we’re not just flirting anymore, javi. i thought this was becoming something.”

“this is something.”

“okay so fucking talk to me. don’t tiptoe around me and give me two word responses because i lost beth a couple weeks ago. you don’t have to tell me what’s going on, but you’re not just managing. i wanna know what goes through your head.”

javi sighed and rubbed her back as she got back to work. “you’re right.”

“i know.”

he rolled his eyes but still gave the back of her head a kiss. “i’m thinking of retiring after cali’s done.”

“oh yeah? why’s that?”

she already knew why. the late nights, the constant losses, everyone dying… she saw how he clung to her metaphorically because she was the only stability he got to have every week but he tried hard to not become dependent on her. she appreciated his consideration, but it led to him being unable to vocalize his emotions which made her feel like there was an unnecessary barrier between them.

“can’t do it anymore. i want you to come back to texas with me when it’s done… if that’s something you want.”

she snorted and gave him a raised eyebrow. “you haven’t even told me you love me yet and you want me to move with you?” she was joking, but he noticed how her eyes bored into his as if she was waiting for him to say it.

he thought it over every time he was away from her — was genie just an impulse for him? just another woman? and every time he questioned it his heart screamed no. she could be bratty, lord knows, but she wasn’t complicated. she was sweet and so full of life that she gave some to him and it made him feel warm inside again. she loved all things and all people, she never judged yet she always stood her ground. she could be needy at times when he wasn’t in the mood for attentiveness but she always waited. he didn’t want to keep her waiting any longer.

“i do love you,” he responded nonchalantly, a frown reaching his brows.

she sat her basket down and turned to face him. “you’re just saying that.”

“no i’m not.” her smile faded momentarily, but came back even bigger; he held her face gently and kissed her blushing nose. “genie, mi amor, te amo tanto te esperaría por siempre. i loved you before i even knew who you were.”

“oh,” she pouted, “you break my heart.” she kissed him and sat on top of his lap whilst reaching for his belt buckle to undo it.

"mm, lemme take you inside," he mumbled against her shiny lips.

"right here," she begged quietly; she pulled her sundress over her head which made javi's eyes touch the back of his skull when he noticed she had no panties on. she didn't bother ridding him of his tight jeans. she just pulled out his velvety cock and teased it along her opening, waiting until he was fully hard to sink onto him. she rested her weight on top of him after he opened the rest of the buttons on his shirt, pressing her lips to his. "tell me again," she demanded. she wasted no time to rock her hips at a quick and eager pace as she lusted after the feeling of his cum painting her wet, rubbery walls.

"i love you." he twitched and moaned weakly beneath her, her movements sending shocks and tickles up his spine. he repeated it more than a dozen times like a broken record and boy was the noise music to her ears.

she whimpered against his neck and her hips chased his orgasm more than hers before she whispered, "i love you," back to him. "i love you, i love you, oh, i lo-love you!" she shouted without a care in the world and watched him through weighted eyes. he held her hips in place and fucked her back, ignoring the strain in his thighs from the fabric restricting his range of motion. "i love you, i love the way you fuck me!"

"you take it so good, dulzura." he pinched her cheeks between his palm and fingers causing him to lose his leverage inside of her, however it didn't stop him. he loved seeing how weak he made her: the way she just molded into him no matter how far he'd bent her or throw her around. he loved how red her face got when he squished it in his brawny hands. "that feel good?"

she nodded shyly in his grip. "yes, everything you do f-feels so fucking good."

"good," he boasted, "you're such a good girl for me, hmm... i love you."

"i'll always be a good girl for you," she told him; he felt his steady pace lose its rhythm and his cock twitched so hard and deep inside of her it felt like his skin had meshed with hers. "i'll always be a good girl for you because you're the boss of me."

fuck. he couldn't stop the arrival of his climax at her sinful confession, his cum pouring out of him seconds later with his head digging into the ground beneath him while he silently cursed at himself for cumming so easily. she liked it though and felt comfortable with leaving it off here. she knew he'd make it up to her later in whatever way she wanted. he asked to stay inside of her for just a little longer so that he could savor the moment and she happily obliged. she helped him escape his nerve-racking high by combing her hands through his hair and a firm kiss.

"my god..." his breathing jagged and his arm trembled around her bare waist. "you're gonna be the death of me one day."

"hmm, that's my job." she put her dress back on to sit next to him lazily pulling his jeans up over his slippery length. "you mean it? wanting me to come back with you to texas?"

he laid his head on her thigh after lighting a cigarette and fiddled with her hand. "course i am. i'll buy us a big farmhouse, and you can raise horses, goats, and shit. whatever you want. i'll make you tea every morning and rub your back when you wake up. we can go for walks and watch the sunset... whatever you want. that’s my second wish.”

"you are gonna be setting feminism back a few years if you keep sweet-talking me," she bantered. they shared a few laughs and smoked in silence for a while before he told her it doesn't have to be that. "mi amor... i'll follow you wherever you go. like i always say… you can be the boss."

"you gotta stop saying that. it makes my dick hard every time."

#pedro pascal #pedro pascal fic #pedro pascal smut #pedro pascal fanfiction #narcos #javier peña narcos #javier peña #javier pena smut #javier pena #javier pena x ofc #javier peña smut #javier pena imagine #javier pena fanfiction #javier peña fanfiction #pedro pascal is daddy

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seiya-starsniper · 11 months ago

Note

I am drinking and I saw the drunken love prompts. So i have to send you one.

Hobrinthian. Number 10!

10 - "I love you. But that's a secret. So I won't tell you about it."

Ooooo friend, this one got a bit angsty, I hope you're ready for it! 😄

--------------

Alcohol, the Corinthian thinks, is quite possibly the greatest invention humanity has ever come up with.

Though his body may not require food or drink from the Waking World for nourishment, the Corinthian is a creature that is built to consume, and he has consumed all manner of things in the time he has walked amongst humans. And oh, he so very much enjoys the heady warmth that courses through his veins when he drinks a particularly old bottle of wine, or a well distilled bourbon.

That heady warmth, however, is nothing when compared to how the Corinthian burns when Hob Gadling kisses him.

It’s late in the evening, and they’re both flush with the afterglow of a fine whiskey the immortal keeps on the shelf of The New Inn just for him, laughing and giggling as they kiss noisily against the front door of Hob’s flat. It’s a cold winter’s night, but the Corinthian is warm against the heat of Hob’s body, so much that he thinks he may burn up with it if he doesn’t get his clothes off fast enough.

Despite that, the Corinthian is also considering just dropping to his knees and blowing Hob right against the door. It wouldn’t be the first time, or even the second time that they’ve done it, and Hob’s loud moans are always drowned out by the lively chatter and ambiance in the pub below. They’ve only been interrupted once, accidentally even, by a drunken patron looking for the pub’s bathroom. The stairway upstairs is otherwise completely hidden from the public.

But before the nightmare can put his plan into action, Hob turns and manages to unlock the door on his first try, to both their surprises. As soon as he turns the knob, the Corinthian doesn’t waste any time pushing Hob through the threshold and bullying him against the nearest flat surface, which happens to be the wall opposite the coat rack in the foyer. The nightmare ruts himself greedily against Hob’s hips, swallowing the immortal’s moans as their shared arousals press together. Hob grips the Corinthian’s hips, hard and possessive, right before he delivers a vicious bite to the side of his neck around where an artery would be, if the nightmare had them. It’s hot. It’s perfect. The Corinthian just knows the sex is going to be fantastic tonight.

Naturally, this is the point where everything goes completely sideways.

“I love you,” Hob slurs into the hollow of the Corinthian’s neck, his tongue soothing at the point where he bit down on the blond’s throat. “But shhhh, it’s a secret, don’t tell,” he adds with a giggle.

The Corinthian feels a dull roar rushing through his ears once his alcohol-addled brain fully comprehends Hob’s words. I love you. I love you. I love you.

They’ve been sleeping together for a while now (276 days, his stupid mind supplies), and Hob had never hidden the fact that he was incredibly fond of the nightmare. But love? That was different. Different enough to stop the Corinthian’s movements all together and just stare.

“Cori?” Hob asks when he notices the sudden change in the nightmare’s demeanor. The Corinthian immediately shakes off his nerves, and practically slams Hob into the wall with how forcefully he kisses him. He slots his thigh between the immortal’s legs and grinds his knee upwards into the other man’s erection, swallowing every moan and gasp with his tongue.

I love you.

The Corinthian growls and delivers his own vicious bite to the immortal’s neck, lower than where Hob had bit him, because Hob still needs to be able to hide marks. His semester wasn’t over for a few more weeks, the nightmare knew, and since when had the Corinthian ever cared about propriety, let alone trying to accommodate someone else’s?

I love you.

“And how am I supposed to keep a secret from myself, Hob?” the Corinthian asks, when Hob is gasping for air and writhing helplessly beneath him. His voice is teasing and light when he speaks, but internally, the nightmare is grasping for the last shreds of his self control.

I love you.

“...Huh,” Hob says, slowly blinking as he considers the blond’s words. His eyes are still glazed over from the alcohol, and the Corinthian wonders if the immortal truly understands the gravity of his confession at all. His expression gives away nothing and the Corinthian wants to shake him and ask him why. Why now? Why at all? Why him?

“Y’know, I didn’t think that far ahead,” Hob finally answers, giving him a lopsided grin. “But you’re good with secrets, so you’ll figure something out.”

The Corinthian huffs and then shuts his eyes, taking a breath.It’s okay. It’s fine. He doesn’t mean it. He doesn’t mean it. Hob’s probably so drunk he won’t even remember any of this in the morning and they can pretend it never happened. Because the Corinthian will make himself forget it.

I love you.

“Cori?” Hob asks, breaking the nightmare out of his thoughts. “Are you sure you’re okay?”

The Corinthian responds with another hard kiss, and grabs Hob by the front of his stupid flannel shirt that looks too good on him, and dragging the immortal down the hall to the bedroom. He’s determined to continue their night as planned, and he’s not about to let something as ridiculous as a love confession get in the way of the good night he was planning to have.

I love you. ---------

The sex, as always, is so good the Corinthian forgets his own name through his orgasm.

Hob Gadling really was a man who didn’t live his life by halves. The Corinthian has had many bed partners over the centuries, but none of them had spent centuries perfecting the craft like Hob did.

The Corinthian collapses on the bed, breathing heavily as he basks in the afterglow while Hob grabs some tissues from the nightstand and wipes them both down, before rolling over to lie on his back next to the Corinthian. He shuts his eyes and sighs contentedly, and the Corinthian knows it won’t be long before he falls asleep.

When he feels fully present in his own body and able to move his limbs again, the Corinthian stands and starts pulling together his clothes so he can get back to the Dreaming. Dream may let him go out into the Waking these days, but that didn’t mean the Corinthian could stay the night or anything.

“Where’re you going?” Hob asks, before he reaches out to grip the Corinthian’s wrist. “Stay.”

The Corinthian feels a lump in his throat. He can’t stay. He can’t.

“I’ve never stayed before, you know that,” he replies. “Boss won’t let me.”

“But I love you,” Hob says, his voice practically a whine, and the Corinthian doesn’t have a heart, not like a human does, but if he did, he thinks it’d be thumping in rapidfire motion at the immortal’s words. He almost can feel the ghost of it, the deadly combination of adrenaline, fear and affection all at once.

He needs to get out of here.

“Good night Hob,” the Corinthian says, touching the immortal’s forehead. Hob’s eyes widen before they glaze over completely, and within moments the immortal’s eyes shut as his body gives in completely to sleep. It’s not a power the Corinthian was meant to have, and he knows Dream will have his skull if he realizes that he knows how to use it, but that’s a problem to worry about later.

As he’s stepping back into the Dreaming, the Corinthian suddenly remembers a phrase he used to hear Dream say quite often when he was still married to Calliope, and the meaning of it hits him like a freight train when he realizes he has the cap of the emptied whiskey bottle from earlier that night in his pocket.

In vino fucking veritas indeed.

#the sandman #hobrinthian #the corinthian #hob gadling #sandman fanfic #seiya writes #seiya writes hobrinthian

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especiallythewomenandthechildren · 4 days ago

Text

As If Destiny (part sixteen)🌹

Part 15🌹

A/N: well hello lovely! your friendly neighborhood force of chaos has crawled out of her hole to provide whatever this is. have a wonderful day! (yall pls don't kill me for taking forever college apps killed me) lemme know your thoughts!

This was meant to be pure fluff but I dont think I'm capable of that

⋆✦⋆⋇⋆✦⋆⋇⋆✦⋆⋇⋆✦⋆⋇⋆✦⋆⋇⋆✦⋆⋇⋆✦⋆

This should have been the part where you woke up. Everything was too perfect.

You were consumed by love (and Cory's lips). Reality was beyond your deepest desires. Everything you had desperately needed was right beneath your clasped hands as you refused to part ways with the boy you love.

You were so lost in your love-fueled haze that you were completely unaware of the world around you. Coriolanus would say he felt the same way, except for the constant ringing of a familiar voice.

"Purple. She is turning purple."

He grabbed your jaw a slight bit harsher, pulling you in for an even deeper angle to drown out the commentary.

"I'm saying 20 seconds till she gets asphyxia."

Hands parted your strands of hair as Coryo couldn't decide on a location. He traced you, as all he wanted was to be consumed by you entirely.

"Probably could hide the body in 5 minutes. He's very crafty, you know."

Coriolanus let go of you so suddenly that you stumbled forward. He ensured you were stable by wrapping an arm around your waist as he faced the ever-ominous smirk of Arachne.

"Would you mind?"

With the fakest gasp of offense, Arachne put a hand to her heart.

"Me? I'm simply trying to enjoy the woods when I see a poor girl's tongue being inhaled!"

Your eyes squinted as you let out a confused scoff.

"You were watching?!"

"I'm still confused about how you survived the arena with your lack of awareness."

"Hey!"

Much to your satisfaction, you now had a defense against Arachne's light-hearted taunts. Coriolanus was sharper in his warning, along with the added tightness of his grip on you. Sejanus was more frank and understandably sensitive about the topic. You all were. Even the taunting Arachne.

You had been so astounded by Coryo that you completely overlooked the boy you considered a brother.

"Sej!"

Somehow freeing yourself from Coryo’s grip, you ran straight into the brunette's arms and latched onto him like a monkey. He stumbled back a little, but the extra muscle he had put on during Peacekeeper training kept you both up.

"I've missed you so much."

Your voice was wobbly as you processed that everything around you was real. You snuggled into his neck, embracing the comfort of his simple presence.

Sejanus asked the question plaguing his mind with a hushed voice, so fragile in its volume, fearing it might shatter the peace of the moment.

"You don't hate me?"

Tears of joy turned into heartbreak. Slowly backing away, you made sure Sejanus was looking at you.

"Hate you?"

It was his turn for tears, though sobbing would be a more accurate description. Trembles journeyed through Sejanus’s fitter body as all the awful memories of that night replayed endlessly.

"I caused you so much pain. I hurt you so much. It was all my fault!"

His deep brown eyes became an ocean of self-loathing. You looked so alive, and it could have all been taken away due to his recklessness. Fragments of your heart were being pounded to shreds by the guilt weighing on Sejanus’s shoulders. You had seen him feel guilty for his privilege before, but this was different. This was festering devastation.

“Sejanus, look at me.”

It took all his respect for you to gather the strength to meet your sympathetic eyes—sympathy he knew he didn’t deserve.

“Did you learn your lesson?” You gave a teasing smile and a light laugh as he huffed in confirmation. “You have such a kind heart. It’s a light in our dark world. Just don’t let it blind you, m’kay?”

He flashed you a smile as you gave him yet another hug. Life for you had been a never-ending cascade of chaos and heartbreak, and you had missed these simple moments with Sejanus. Moments from a time before you dug up past and fresh graves. Although, going back that far would mean leaving behind the now most important person in your life, who reminded you of his presence as he came up behind you.

Coryo wrapped his arm around you again the second you pulled away from Sejanus.

“Okay, your time slot is over. It’s my turn.”

“Once again.” A very smooth cover-up was attempted by Arachne, as a small coughing fit naturally followed as Coryo’s vibrant baby blues rolled at her antics. You looked up at Coryo and finally took in his appearance. His buzzed hair brought out his electric eye shade even more, and his tall frame had filled out with good meals and training. His look had you utterly speechless as you ran your fingers over the now buzzed-off section where his curls used to be. Your silent response to his new appearance made a foreign snake of insecurity slither its way into his mind.

“That bad?” Coryo’s voice was quiet enough for only you to hear, leaving your two friends straining to listen. Your eyes shot up to the ones you thought about every night and morning. You searched for the joke, but he was serious. And so were you when you slapped his arm.

“Have you grown blind? I loved your curls, but that doesn’t mean I don’t really like this too.”

Coryo’s smirk intensified as you continued, especially when your hands reached the nape of his neck. With the look in his eyes, even in the midnight darkness, Arachne and Sejanus felt like they were about to see something they did not want to see.

“I think if we stay five minutes longer, we’ll finally know if Coryo’s carpet matches the drapes.”

Your Coryo-filled trance was effectively broken by Sejanus’s (surprising) comment as mortification painted your cheeks rouge. The ever-proper Coriolanus, however, had no real care as he just leveled his friend with a flat look. On the other hand, the snickers and cackles between Sejanus and Arachne were abundant. Almost as if they were friends. A disgusting enough concept to both of them as Sejanus’s prior comment.

“You do know the both of you are acting like friends, right?”

Dawning smug smiles, you and Coriolanus watched as the other two argued and shouted against any possibility—no, institution—of friendship. The show was oh so entertaining and would have likely lasted until sunrise, but you had to cut it short. With the fight back at the Hob, all Capital personnel, of which you all were, needed to be inside the barracks unless yearning for punishment. Coriolanus knew you were right but didn’t want to let go of you, even if just for a few hours. Arm clutching to his, you laid your head upon his shoulder as the branches crunched beneath your synchronous feet. The large campus of the barracks came into view as your grip tightened in yearning.

“Dawn?”

Coriolanus sent an all-too-consuming smirk.

“Dawn.”

His smirk grew immensely, but you never saw it; you felt it on your lips as he gave a sweet kiss that was supposed to be short. Although, you didn’t part, and Coryo couldn’t bring himself to either. Once again, it felt like a dream overtook your reality. And yet again, that rosy view was interrupted by an impatient Arachne.

“Innocent bystanders present.”

Coriolanus didn’t miss a beat as his lips traveled downward to your neck, and the teasing smirk spread impossibly further.

“Find your own woods.”

Your laugh was airy from the ticklish feeling of Cory's lips as you (unfortunately) had to push him away. As much as you yearned to stay, you needed to get inside urgently. Not risking any further stalling, you gave a peck to Cory's cheek and whispered about dawn once more while running to your side of the large campus with Arachne in tow.

The blonde stood there with a shining grin when Sejanus’s strong hand clapped him on the back. “Maybe Twelve isn’t too bad.”

Even out of sight, Coriolanus was enamored with your lingering presence.

“No. Not too bad at all.”

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Arachne and Sejanus were able to sleep soundly, even while knowing their respective bunkmates wouldn’t be there when they woke up. Instead, you and Coriolanus would finally get a rare moment of peace.

You hadn’t gotten a second of sleep, your eyes blurring with concentration as you watched the horizon. As soon as the deep midnight sky began to lighten the slightest shade, you were already out the door. The hallways you usually trudged through echoed with the sound of your near-running steps. The district air had never felt so good against your skin. The birds had never sounded so inviting. Coriolanus Snow had never been more perfect.

Of course, Mr. Perfect had already been waiting for you. Like you, he’d spent the few hours between your meetings cursing the slowness of the night. Now you were begging for time to pause, just for you and Coryo. As soon as you saw him leaning against a flourishing, expansive tree, you ran straight into his arms—arms that picked you up and spun you around as your glee harmonized with the birds chirping above.

He set you down and stared at your radiant face. It had been too long since he’d seen it outside of his dreams. Coryo cupped your face and lovingly traced your cheekbones.

“You are far too beautiful for the districts.”

You scoffed gently and bashfully looked away. Would there ever be a time when he wouldn’t make you so flustered? He gently tilted your chin to lock eyes with his ever-magnetic gaze.

“I’m being serious.”

“Oh, I know, pretty boy.”

The nickname caused just enough pause for you to smoothly escape his grasp. Walking ahead, you looked back with a gleam of mischief in your eyes. Coriolanus had had so many daydreams of you and those eyes that it was hard to remember if everything around him was real. Then again, it didn’t really matter. Coriolanus would always follow you.

He jogged lightly to catch up to your flowing stride. “Trying to get rid of me already?” Coryo teased as his arm settled comfortably across your shoulders.

You started to worry about your cardiovascular health with the number of flips your heart was doing. However, that effortless rhythm of you and Coriolanus felt as natural as breathing.

“Oh please, I’ve been trying to get close to you since I was eleven.”

His shiny white teeth outshone the little rays of sunlight starting to break through the winding branches.

“So, you admit you’ve been obsessed with me.”

“Good to know you managed to pack your ego with you.”

“You’ve been hanging out with Arachne too much, you know that?”

“Well, maybe don’t leave me alone.”

“Oh, I’m not planning on it.”

A sweet smile was mirrored on both your faces. After weeks of tension and tragedy, the sereness of this moment was not lost on you. As much as you missed bantering with Coryo, you missed his simple presence more. No words needed to be said as his presence lifted the weight of the world from your crumbling shoulders.

The two of you walked aimlessly, but within minutes, you realized where your feet had led you. Serenity bled into unease. Coryo felt your muscles tense beneath his arm and noticed your nervous tick. Usually, the ring of Snow brought you comfort, yet this time it was the golden ring of Embridge, twirling between your fingers. Coriolanus, ever observant, immediately picked up on your tension and squeezed your shoulder in silent, effective communication. In response, you nestled closer to him as the gravity of reality pulled you further from the bliss you so seldom got to embrace.

“Do you know why we’re in Twelve?”

“A bastard.” You lifted your head at the uncharacteristically crass language Coriolanus used. He stared straight ahead, jaw clenched. Gently, you ran your fingertips along his chiseled jaw, making his teeth unclench and his face soften. Reality was bound to come out soon enough, so you might as well swallow the heavy truth and spit it out for Coryo.

“Well, yes, he does have a hand in this. But there’s a reason he chose this district specifically.”

The branches around you shifted into twisted, sinister shapes, providing no comfort. That strange shiver, which was becoming too familiar, slithered through your bones. In record time, Coriolanus put his light Peacekeeper jacket over your shoulders. The air of domesticity was once again shattered by the shadows of the mocking trees.

Coryo waited patiently for you to continue, but it took you a moment to steady your churning stomach. The blonde used the silence to gently prod you forward.

“I assume it’s his usual spite and dramatics.” You might have laughed lightly at his jab, but all you could do was swallow your unease as the macabre symbol of retaliation loomed ahead. Outstretched branches, as if reaching for their newest victim, lacked leaves and were scorched in the outline of a man. The tree was clearly meant to send shivers down spines—not just yours. The scratches from its past victims were still deeply engraved into its trunk.

Coryo’s sapphire eyes froze in horror at the grotesque message for the Capitol. You swallowed the bile rising in your throat and accepted the unacceptable truth.

“My uncle is alive, Coryo.”

In an instant, his blue eyes snapped to your face, his fingers cold as they tilted your chin for eye contact and answers.

“Highbottom left a cryptic letter in my file. I—I followed the clues, and somehow, I found him! He isn’t the same man; he’s on some kind of hallucinogenic substance and—”

Coriolanus’s chest muffled your panicked ramble. Melting in his arms, the two of you stood together as the morning colors—orange, pink, and purple—painted the sky. Soon, the world you both had to return to would be waking up, but it could wait. Now was the time to finally let your beloved Coryo help you, as only he could.

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Blackouts. An experience that was dreadful, malicious, and all too common for Alreic Vaun. Or rather, it had been, though in the past few years, they’d become less frequent. Those wretched names from the past stopped seeping into his mind. No more visions. No more reliance on the sultry purple poison. He’d begun to know Otto—Kane—as more than just the kid who’d pulled his unconscious body from the streams. And even that little girl, whose name and face were often blurred beyond recognition. Little Rowan. His Rowan.

He’d gone six straight months without a single blackout, hallucination, or injection. Alreic was even considering getting a job in the mines to help support the small family that had inexplicably appeared under his roof. The young man, eerily reminiscent of his late nephew, didn’t deserve the life he’d endured. Nor did the little girl, whose rambunctiousness reminded him of his sweet, clever niece, Y/N.

For six blissful months, he’d felt a fragile sense of optimism—until it shattered. Lucy Gray Baird and Jessup Diggs were to be District Twelve’s tributes. Lambs to the slaughter. Jessup and Lucy Gray weren’t just innocent children; they were children who had spent time in his shambles of a cabin, who’d helped him up and taught him new recipes. Lucy Gray, with her sweet songs swirling around the living room, and Rowan’s laughter echoing in the clearing at Jessup’s antics. They were Kane’s closest friends and Rowan’s role models ; people he could rely on to be there for the children he’d taken in, even when he couldn’t.

As much as Alreic’s veins yearned painfully for the sweet relief of the mauve substance’s sting, he couldn’t indulge. Six months of sobriety could never make up for years of abandonment and hallucinations, but maybe staying clean could. Kane and Rowan needed him. It’s what his sisters would have wanted. For the first time in years, Alreic’s thoughts of family were not immediately drowned out by the electrifying lure of inebriation. Sober and somber, he resolved to bear the pain of loss and be a stable pillar of support. To be the man he once was, even if it was a decade too late.

Alreic should have known that fate was never kind to him.

Two days after the Reaping, a black envelope with green lettering arrived, addressed to him. Fine, smooth, elegant handwriting. The old routine was set to return. With every silken envelope came a bulging cylinder hidden inside. He didn’t need to know the sender; it was clear this was a Capitol message.

After the day of your sudden appearance in the cabin, Kane had gone out with his bow to find dinner and to burn off his fuming rage. Rowan stayed close to Maude Ivory’s side, the two clinging together in shared fear. Alreic hurried to his shabby excuse of a bedroom and tore the envelope open. He should have waited, taken a moment to think about what it might contain. It’s what the old him would have done. But no matter how hard he tried, he wasn’t that man anymore. The evidence lay in the alluring purple bubbles gliding across the syringe’s liquid. Alreic had been clean for six months, five days, and four hours. Had been.

Instantly, the cold surface of the glass syringe settled perfectly in his cracked fingers. His veins stood out, ready. It had taken him ten years to reach six months of recovery. Months of resisting the enticing green words of persuasion and guilt. And yet all his progress was now darkened by the familiar amethyst that flowed through his veins and those infamous Enbridge eyes.

Slipping away into the endless void of guilt, he left the letter unread.

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Bright sunlight lit up the lush greenery of the Capitol barracks. Several Peacekeepers were out jogging and working out in the wide clearing at the center of the campus. Familiar researchers made their way past you and Coryo as they began their work early. Luckily, both of you had already gotten ready before your early morning escapade, so all that was left to do was to make sure all traces of your tears were gone.

“Are you completely sure?”

For the hundredth time in the past hour, Coryo assured you that your tear streaks and hives had disappeared. He usually added a compliment to sweeten the deal, yet you kept rubbing the skin under your eyes.

“If you keep rubbing, that’s what’s going to make you look like you cried.”

You huffed at his rationality, filling your breakfast tray with items that looked semi-edible. The cafeteria was lively but not cramped, with an atmosphere of ease—a stark contrast to the rigid cafeteria of the Capitol academy. Arachne and Sejanus were already seated at a small table in the back left corner by some white windows. Sitting down, you should have felt the strangeness of the situation. You and Arachne sat across from each other, Coriolanus to your right and Sejanus to Arachne’s. The academy’s top students and future leaders, all here in poverty-stricken District Twelve. And yet, it all felt like it fit.

“I assume you told him?” Arachne asked. You nodded confidently. She returned the nod, confirming she had done the same with Sejanus. Now you were all up to speed on the chaos that had further invaded your lives.

Sejanus offered his condolences, which you accepted with a grateful smile—grateful for friends who didn’t press for more details. The conversation drifted to each of your new positions. You and Arachne filled in the boys on your explorations in the woods, earning laughs and playful comments from Sejanus at the image of Arachne handling the birds. He was promptly met with a smack from the back of a metal spoon. The two boys were to take on various roles, from guards to execution assistants to aides for the researchers. You were enjoying the friendly bickering between Sejanus and Arachne when a voice cut through.

“Hey, Y/N! Just wanted to make sure you were okay after last night?”

The boyish smile of Cassian was sweet—but Arachne and Coriolanus found it utterly disgusting. Meanwhile, Sejanus tried to pinpoint why he felt a strange familiarity.

“She’s just peachy, but my toes aren’t. Learn how to dance, Slate.”

Cassian was clearly holding back his irritation at the redhead but kept his smile steady. “Well, I wasn’t exactly prepared to go dancing.”

He should have known better than to try arguing with Arachne. “No? I swear I remember you asking Y/N for a dance.”

Your cheeks flushed as Cassian looked to you for help, then glanced at Coryo in surprise. Though Coryo knew you well enough to understand that this infatuation was entirely one-sided, on the part of this, in his eyes, rather pathetic fool. Meanwhile, Sejanus was still in his own world, trying to figure out why this random Peacekeeper felt so familiar.

“You don’t like me, yet you still asked me for a dance?” the hazel-eyed boy grumbled at Arachne’s triumphant smirk. She took a sip of her water, letting the air settle in her favor.

“What can I say? I like stepping on people’s toes.” Coryo really thought this guy would have taken the hint by now. For once, Coryo was wrong. Cassian crouched down to meet your eyes, getting far too close for Coriolanus’s comfort.

In a whisper, Cassian finally asked the question he’d come to ask in the first place. “Hey, Y/N, later this afternoon, some Peacekeepers are supposed to check up on the researchers’ progress with catching those weird hybrid birds. I volunteered and was hoping I could check in with you?”

With every word he spoke, Arachne swore he got closer to you. Instinctively, you turned to Coryo. You still didn’t quite understand Arachne’s rudeness toward the sweet guy, but something about this proposal felt off. Coryo hadn’t mentioned anything about it, and you were sure he would have if he’d been assigned. Maybe he hadn’t, due to your emotional state during your confession this morning? Everyone was waiting for your answer when a Peacekeeper administrator’s voice called out, saving you from responding. You locked eyes with Arachne, and she was quick to take action.

“Looks like your master is calling, so you’d better go keep order or whatever it is you do.”

“Peace. We keep the peace. It’s in the name.”

Of course, the thing that brought Sejanus out of his trance was an opportunity to jab at Arachne. She took your tray, tossed it, and grabbed your wrist, pulling you away. Cassian tried to call out for an answer, but Arachne left no room for discussion. You glanced back, avoiding Cassian’s questioning gaze and meeting Coriolanus’s instead. A sweet smile passed between you two, and you were off in the wind.

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Your tasks were still the same: capture as many mockingjays as possible and send them back for examination. You and Arachne had made good progress scouring the woods, but the inevitable section you dreaded was getting closer and closer. Ara offered to go ahead and get closer to your uncle's cabin. Just the thought of it all made you spiral downward. The chills that had been building up shook through your bones. It was a beautiful day, maybe even a bit too hot, yet you felt a bitter cold in your extremities. Without fail, you experienced numbing cold, piercing migraines, or blurry eyesight every day since you left the Capitol. You doubted it was homesickness, even if you missed the bustling city. The woods and fresh air of District Twelve were refreshing—a change you weren’t sure you wanted to let go of.

Strolling along and tracing the wooden engravings on the trees, your ears perked up at a soft tune. A melodious hum peacefully floated through the air, guiding you to the location of the beautiful, raven-colored mockingjay. Such a sight it was. The heavenly sounds of the bird, eerily resembling Lucy Gray's own hums, echoed off four gravestones. The mockingjay itself was perched on what seemed to be the newest of the graves. The three on the left looked older, more rushed, and crumbling. However, they had little yellow flowers beneath them. On the farthest right, and closest to you, a newer and sturdier gravestone stood proudly—a fitting tribute to the man it honored.

Jessup Diggs. Friend, Son, Brother, and Hope.

Maybe it was the odd blistering sensations crawling through your body or the sheer exhaustion of the past few weeks. It could have just been the guilt of survival and murder, but you collapsed to your knees. You were shivering and felt nauseous, yet no tears broke through your lacrimals. Shaking hands traced the fresh pink carnations in front of the stone. You reached up to feel the engraving of the letter J when your trance was shattered.

"So she was right."

Behind you stood a black-eyed, bruised Kane. His dark curls were a mess, and his smile was tired. No judgment hid behind his bruised eyes. A small bouquet of curved purple flowers was clutched in his bandaged hands. There were no words you felt you could say, so you just moved slightly to give him room. A genuine smile crept across his solemn face as he sat down. The mockingjay was still singing its tune.

"You were his—uhm, what were you called again?"

"Mentor." A quiet confession, barely a whisper. Kane began arranging the purple flowers, ones you had never seen before, with the pink carnations. In his back pocket, you noticed a few other puffy orange flowers, which he also mixed in.

"Mentor. Lucy Gray said that she and Jessup had the best two."

His dark eyes remained fixed on the flowers while you turned to study his features. He didn’t directly resemble your brother, but something in the way his shoulders bore the weight of the world and the softness of his voice reminded you of Otto. Perhaps it wasn’t too hard to imagine your uncle seeing one as the other.

"Do you know how he died?" You feared you might have struck a nerve with the question, as Kane took a shaky breath. His eyes traveled northward to the engraving in Jessup’s memory.

"Bat bite. He got it by protecting Lucy Gray."

"He definitely died defiantly. On his own terms."

Kane looked at you then. You looked at him. Really, he did resemble Otto. His eyes scrunched to bite back tears, but a shaky smile exposed his teeth. He gently shook his dark curls. "Never could give up his fight."

An atmosphere of sweet contentment swept in. The mockingjay continued its melody, transitioning from its original hum to something more dramatic than the earlier light tune. Your eyes lingered on the other gravestones. Jessup’s father, mother, and brother—all reunited once more. A detail that struck you was that the other three gravestones had "Martyr" engraved, while Jessup’s was empty of that deserved moniker.

"He was a martyr too. He died opposing his oppressors, even if not physically."

You kept your sore eyes on the bright array of flowers—purple, pink, and orange, like a calming yet vibrant sunset. A violent shiver ran through you, and despite your best efforts to conceal it, Kane noticed.

"Do you know about his family?" There was a hint of apprehension in his voice. You understood why. Your suspicions about your brother’s role had been running in your mind. Another high, grieving note was pitched by the mockingjay.

Nodding in confirmation, you gently grasped one of the billowy orange flowers. It had at least seven layers, each shade darker than the last, top to bottom, creating an ombre spectacle. "He said their killer had the same eyes as mine. Around the same age as you. His orders were filled with regret. I know it was Otto."

Kane was surprised by just how much Jessup had told you. Maybe Jessup had simply stopped caring in his final days? Perhaps he was trying to unnerve you? Then again, why would you be so sympathetic and grieving? Lucy Gray’s descriptions of her time in the Capitol and its people flooded back to him. Jessup’s mentor. “The girl is full of surprises.” Kane examined the scars on your neck. She just jumped in front of the bottle. “That nasty girl was making jabs at someone with your same name, and yet, she still took the hit!”

His dark eyes caught sight of the dull ring hanging around your neck. From your sudden collapse, your necklace had been thrust forward, out of your shirt and into the forest air. The symbol of House Embridge stood proud, just as it had around Alreic’s ring and on all of Alreic’s fanatical drawings and engravings.

"Did he ever hate you for having the same name? Did he know?"

"Eventually he knew, but he never judged. He understood what happened. I didn’t move in with Al until I was 13, but Jessup and I had been friends since we could walk. We met running through the woods, addicted to the thrill of sprinting past the trees. It was just me and my mom until I was 11, when she had Rowan with a different father than mine," he took a breath. The young man never needed to explicitly say Alreic was the father—you knew. The Embridge eyes never lie. "I loved Jessup’s family, especially his brother and dad. My mother did everything for me, and I loved her, but it was different having a father figure. Someone to teach you how to shoot arrows and survive off the land. My mom was a barmaid; she didn’t know how to do any of that. But then… Well, you know what happened to his family. It wasn’t much later that my mom—my mom was murdered too."

His voice cracked at the end. The rawness of death swirled in your consciousness as you handed the flower in your hand to Kane. Even as one sole tear escaped down his stubbled cheek, he smiled faintly at your gesture.

"I was there for him, and he for me. He had nowhere else to go but the cabin where his family died. It would have been a shame to abandon their legacy. I couldn’t stand being in the shack I was born in. I knew nothing of my father, just that he was lost to the wind like a lot of kids here. But at least I knew where to find Rowan’s. He was barely conscious most of the time, but he let us stay, or at least wasn’t aware enough to kick us out. The good thing was we weren’t far from Jessup. He helped me raise Rowan. A few years later, Covey joined the mix. Life didn’t look so bleak anymore. Even Al started sobering up and stepping up. I survived the Hunger Games reaping. It was Jessup’s last year and only a few more for Lucy Gray. My biggest worry was Maude Ivory or Rowan, as it was their first year. Never did I think that two of my family would be taken."

In the few minutes it took for him to finish his story, it seemed he had aged a decade. Even with Lucy Gray coming back, he had lost his family. No unit stays the same when one pillar crumbles. You wished to comfort him, but you didn’t know how. You felt like the embodiment of everything that had caused him pain. A wailing tune from the bird continued to cement itself in the atmosphere between you two.

"I am so sorry." It wasn’t an empty apology, but it felt useless to you, though to Kane, it was a welcomed, foreign phrase. From all he’d heard from Lucy Gray, he knew you weren’t the average Capitol citizen. And from Alreic, he knew your family—and by extension, you—were important. He still needed to know exactly why someone of your status ended up in the backwoods of Twelve, but he appreciated your efforts nonetheless.

Arachne was likely on her way back to the barracks to finish off her tasks for the day, and you should have been doing the same. But you had no desire to move. You enjoyed Kane’s presence, the comfort long missing from your life. Sunlight streamed through the trees and shone down on the flowers that had captivated you.

"Is there a specific reason for the flowers chosen?"

The change in conversation lightened Kane’s mood as he grabbed a stem of each one. You only recognized the pink carnation; the others were unfamiliar.

“The pink carnation,” he held it out for you as he explained, “That’s from Lucy Gray. It symbolizes a vow to never forget the person it’s gifted to.” You spun the flower between your fingers before lightly setting it back with the rest of its sisters. They weren’t your flowers, but you silently committed to the same vow the flowers implied.

“Next are the sweet peas. A symbol of goodbye and thank you for the times together. These are mine.” Purple and delicate, the flowers entranced you. An impactful message in such a fragile flower. Finally, there was the large puff of an orange flower.

“From Rowan. The Zinnia. A declaration of everlasting affection for lost friends.” Layers of petals created a sentiment of deepening love. All together, Jessup’s memory came alive. An unforgettable soul. Your hands now felt empty as you had no flowers of your own to give.

“Next time, I will bring something. Though, I am not sure if I am too good with flower meanings.”

Kane got up and offered you his dirt-stained hand, which you gently took. You dusted off your dark blue pants while the young man stood patiently. At your sudden movement, the stoic mockingjay broke through the air and into the deep woods. “I am sure Maude Ivory and Rowan will be more than happy to introduce you. They have them all written down somewhere.”

You started walking back toward the barracks and town without even considering where Kane might have to go, but he just followed along amicably. You smiled at his authenticity and willingness to trust his little sister with you.

“I am surprised you know so little about flowers. I assumed Capital kids get taught all the silly stuff like that.”

Shaking your head gently, you giggled a little at his admission. Maybe some of your peers knew a few floral meanings, but most were just concerned with how pretty it looked.

“Well, flowers only really matter if they are expensive and look it. They try to buy authenticity with materialistic urges.”

Kane took note of how you described your fellow residents as “they.” You didn’t even seem to consider yourself to be one of them. Odd.

“So what are your favorite flowers then? The most expensive ones?”

That slick, smitten smile spread across your lips, mimicking the rosy blush across your cheeks. The phantom smell of roses danced in your nose. Shiny petals danced in the moonlight, filtering through your mind.

“Well, if you must know, then white roses. In a way, they have the most value. Their seeds are pricey, but that is what makes having so little so valuable. Being able to give them up is a gift far more worthwhile than riches.”

Your companion took in your answer and considered it. Obviously, there were no fine floral such as the white flowers you held so dear in Twelve, but this wasn't the first time he’d heard of them. Lucy Gray described her first encounter with her rose-bearing mentor. The trees began to clear slightly when you were knocked off course when Kane bumped his shoulder with yours.

“Oh, it’s not the flowers. It’s a boy giving them, isn’t it?”

You laughed ridiculously at his (right) accusation. “Just how much did Lucy Gray give away?”

“Oh, she can’t stop talking about the two of you.” He laughed lightly at the memory of her enthusiasm for “true love.” The tree break came into view, and you walked through and turned around to face your newest friend. You smiled at him, a gesture lightly returned.

“At least it isn’t curses. I can manage to accept that.” A quick wave, and you were off to your office to get some work done. In the whirlwind of emotion from the day, you underestimated the persistence of Cassian and Coriolanus.

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There are far worse fates for Coriolanus Snow than being a peacekeeper. He actually enjoyed the routine and obvious benefits of large food quantities and bedding that actually fit him. Not to mention you and Sejanus’s company. Even Arachne was an unexpected perk. Though, there was one person who made Coriolanus’s agitation flare up.

Cassian Slate was no threat on the surface. Even in reality, Coriolanus had enough confidence to know he was no threat to his relationship with you. That doesn’t mean he liked his eyes on you nor his continuous efforts to get close to you. Something about him made Coriolanus’s gut sour. The feeling had never disappointed him before; he doubted it would start now. Tens of peacekeepers who were not on active duty were in the training facility. Fury had already fueled several of Coryo’s exercise reps. Yet, Cassian did his so gently. As if he had no weight upon his shoulders. It shouldn’t have been odd for a man of no status, such as the district-born, but it was more than that. Everyone else had an air of struggle or striving, but Cassian was eerily free of those attributes. Something was off about him.

The sentiment was shared by Sejanus. For the past several hours, he had been mulling over the name and the hazel eyes that trailed everything far too closely. Until it struck him, sending him straight back to his childhood memories. Just as Marcus had been his classmate, so had Cassian. All Sejanus wanted to do was reconnect, but he doubted it would cause any good results. Though it seemed it wasn’t just him who could recognize old childhood friends. When Coriolanus was distracted, talking to him and Sejanus’s shared roommate, Cassian made his way to Sejanus, who was studying varying herbal remedies.

“Guess the Capital hasn’t changed you after all.”

Coriolanus should have stopped the conversation. There was a lot that should have been done in those days to stop what would come.

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It had been nearly an hour, and you were still unsure where Arachne had gone. Although, her disappearances had become more frequent, so there was no immediate reason to panic. She always comes back for dinner. You were in a small research office at the far end of the large building shared between researchers and peacekeepers. A dusty library was centered, with varying proposed rooms scattered around it. On the first day, you and Arachne managed to snatch one of the few in good condition, with a pretty view of the billowing trees.

You had been stooped over several books about cross-species mutations, the exact category of the mockingjay. Coincidentally, there were also descriptions of a group that could induce the hallucinogenic symptoms akin to your uncle's. Focus overtook you so firmly that you didn’t hear the knock on your open doorframe.

“And she still finds herself lost in the pages.”

Tired eyes snapped to the teasing gaze of your Coryo. He walked to you slowly, and you took that time to admire his appearance. The peacekeeper position really didn’t look too bad on him. The buzzed blonde perched himself next to you. You didn’t need to explain all the diagrams or pages. You never had to really explain anything, academic or personal, to Coriolanus. A miracle you were eternally grateful for. As he understood the aim of your work on your own, you went back to it, settling into the comfortable quiet. All until a grating voice pierced Coriolanus’s ears.

“Hey, Y/N—oh. I didn’t know you had company.”

Both you and Coriolanus looked up with two widely different expressions. A look of embarrassment overtook your face, while Coryo sent a murderous glare to the brunette. Cassian, adamant as ever, still made his way into your office. He looked at his blonde peer with a quizzical look.

“Uhm, if you wouldn’t mind, I need to talk to Y/N about private peacekeeping business?”

Cassian wanted to get comfortable, so Coryo did the same. Instead of simply being next to you, Coryo moved his arms in a manner that trapped you within his embrace as he faked reading the plethora of information beneath your fingertips. You felt trapped, both physically and socially in the moment. Yet, Coryo radiated smugness.

“I am a peacekeeper as well, so it shouldn’t be a problem. Don’t you think, Y/N?”

You felt like a fish out of water, gaping up at the man hovering above you. Blue sapphire eyes that passed for his ducked down to level with yours. A stuttered “y-yeah” was hardly heard as Coryo raised his head. Coriolanus’s joy only grew, seeing the irritation build behind those charming hazel eyes.

“I need to speak about private matters by order from my superior.” Cassian’s voice was strained as he tried to hold back the irritation at the foiling of his plans.

“Then don’t let me stop you,” Coriolanus stated daringly. You picked up on Cassian’s little ticks. They weren’t ones of boyish nerves but rather signs of anger and stress. His eyes zoomed in on you for backup, but you no longer felt willing to give him a few moments alone with you.

One of the many reasons you and Coriolanus got along so well was your strong intuition. If only you all shared it.

Cassian knew he wasn’t going to get anything with Coryo’s sharpness orbiting you. A mumbled goodbye, and he was gone. Your head swiveled to follow the movements of Coryo, who now made his way to sit in front of your small, chipped wooden desk. Squinted eyes leveling a disappointed look had no effect on him.

“There is something off with him. I’ll find out soon enough.”

And that was the end of the conversation. No room for argument, because how could you oppose the feeling that had been slithering through your stomach at his oddly insistent behavior? You tried to piece together the pieces before your attention was once again stolen by the charming peacekeeper.

“I crossed paths with Lucy Gray earlier. She invited us to her and the Covey’s trip down to the lake in a few days. Thought you would enjoy it.”

The smile on his face was sickly sweet and warm. Stars of adoration shone through his dimples. You were lucky you even caught on to what he was saying while being so distracted.

“I would love to, but I don’t have anything to wear.”

“She called in some favors. Didn’t hurt to have a peacekeeper presence behind her.”

Worry etched its way between your brows at Lucy Gray’s gesture and the intimidation of Coryo. However, the latter was quick to peck the spot with kisses, smoothing it out. He was still intent on keeping his promise to himself about you. Coriolanus didn’t need you worrying about anything. Even if you were across the country, you two would return to the Capitol soon enough, victorious and your places justifiably awarded. As president and first lady. He had already gotten his first step back. News he was excited to share with you by the lakeside, but that wasn’t what he was looking forward to the most. You started talking about some passionate debate between you and Arachne. Coryo could only notice just how much the ring of Snow glowed.

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You were drowning. The sudden darkness was replaced by frigid water blocking fresh air from entering your lungs. It crept down your hair strands and into the little tunnels that form your ears. In less than a moment, you sprang up from your bed, scraping your face to get the unwelcome substance off.

"Good morning, sunshine."

The void, raspy morning voice of Arachne greeted you. Your eyes were still blinking away the water as her fully dressed figure came into view. Still reeling from a deep sleep, you could only manage a half-hearted glare. There wasn’t a single sunray striking through your curtains. What joke was life playing on you today? A firm pillow broke you out of your thoughts and the minuscule semblance of peace you had gotten.

“Get dressed, we need to meet everyone by the back woods.”

There wasn’t a single coherent thought forming. All you could do was grumble and stare blankly at your blanket. Another perfect hit on your head via pillow. “Blame yourself. You wanted to go to the lake.”

Ah yes. The past few days had been a haze of morning walks with Coryo, research duties, small rendezvous with Kane, and conversations with Sejanus and Arachne at the oddest moments, since neither could rarely be found. Interesting how they are only present when the other is... Well, your pondering could wait. Now you needed to get up before your redheaded friend refilled the water cup. Lucy Gray instructed you all to meet by the early dawn at the back clearing of the woods. Apparently, the best time to visit the lake was early morning.

Your outfit was a simple dress by Capitol standards, yet still the most opulent fabric masterpiece the districts had the privilege to see. Good thing the early dawn light covered it up. Arachne was wearing a deep navy skirt and chic white blouse to pair. Underneath both, the gifted swimsuits from Lucy Gray. You tried to deny it, but she insisted, for “all you have done.” No matter your personal feelings on it, Lucy Gray, and lately Kane, thanked you for the dignity you gave the two District 12 tributes in their time at the Capitol.

Only a few feet ahead, you saw several grouped figures in the clearing of trees that transitioned from field to woods. You could tell from the height and perfect posture which one was your Coryo. It was an immense relief to know you were right, considering you jumped on his back. It was a surprise to the boy, but a very good one once he saw your wide smile. Eyes still droopy, your joy made up for your sleepiness. Coryo was quick to wrap an arm around your shoulders as your decently sized group made its way. The whole Covey was present and leading the way. In addition, Rowan was getting off the trail with the ever-loyal Maude Ivory beside her. Their victim of the day being a poor fluffy tailed squirrel on the run from the pair. Her brother, Kane – a moniker only you used – was listening intently to something Sejanus was saying. Somehow, the two met, which was a bit odd to hear him talk about “Otto.” He never met your brother, so to even hear the utterance of his name felt peculiar. Even Arachne joined in. Their conversation was quiet but brought a smile to the men's faces and an expression of pure contentment that was so foreign on Arachne’s pretty features.

To your left, Lucy Gray was lively speaking of the district and her favorite stories. To your right was a rare, relaxed Coryo. The situation you found yourself in felt too perfect to last. It was the first time in months, maybe years, or even a decade, that you and your Capitol peers felt like actual youth. Careless young people who are in love, with someone or life itself. You hummed along with Lucy Gray’s excited retelling and admired the beautiful view that opened up to you. The army of trees parted their branches to display a serene scene of emerald pines surrounding a crystal blue lake. The morning sun cast an effect of sparkles across the water's calm surface. Well, that was calm before the immense splashes of Rowan and Maude Ivory’s sudden jumps into it.

The two young girls’ antics brought the whole group laughter but also a feeling of longing for you too. There weren’t many children in the Capitol your age. Nearly all your peers had no young siblings, or if they did, there was a near ten-year age gap. The toll of the dark days still shows in the empty classrooms that the middle school-aged children should have filled. You were shaken out of your gloomy thoughts when you were physically shaken as your feet left the ground.

“Coryo—AH!”

Your shrieks were cut off by the purge of water you were suddenly thrown into. As fast as you possibly could, you cut through to the surface to see a grinning Coriolanus. Oh, that little—No one seemed to give you the courtesy of peace as your mental curses were interrupted by large splashes in your face. This time, the offender was a sly-faced Arachne. And to add onto it all, Sejanus joined in on the fun. You were still wearing your dress for goodness’ sake. Though, the fabric would have to wait as your time of revenge had dawned.

You aimed your hardest splash at your closest opponent, Arachne, and went directly for Coryo, ensuring your feet splashed Sjenanus. The pretty dress was drenched and slowing you down, but you were determined to reach the laughing blonde, and he seemed in no mood to stop you. You finally got close enough to make your own attacks, which were quickly retaliated. Coryo got closer and closer to you. Seemingly enough, he must've been some sort of magnet as you naturally floated into his space. Mere inches from each other’s faces, you soaked it all in—the water covering your entire body, the sun warming it, and the man who you loved beyond words and worldly limitations. It transcended into spheres only known to your sentiment rather than your consciousness.

Giggles bubbled all around you as you turned to see a family’s much-needed relaxation and enjoyment. Coryo used the moment to bring you close and hook his head into the crook of your neck. You watched in contentment as Maude-Ivory and Rowan raced against each other, pretending to be different types of fish, even making noises and impressions to go along with it. Sejanus floated on his back, taking in all the beauty of Twelve's nature. Arachne was swimming a few ways off, exploring the body of water. Kane was as red as a sweet apple, and you had an inclination it had nothing to do with the scorching sun, but the sunlight in human form next to him. Lucy Gray had a blinding smile that only fueled his smitten one and yours of excitement for the two.

You felt the constraints of your drenched dress loosen as Coriolanus was unbuttoning it in your moment of analysis. He quickly threw it near the shore and instantly had his arms wrapped around you. Turning to face him, you met piercing blue eyes that always brought you comfort.

“This is nice.” A sickly sweet smile played upon your lips. Coriolanus nodded along, just wanting to hear more of your voice. “Yeah?”

You breathed in the forest air, letting the atmosphere roll over you as your eyes fluttered shut. “I never thought I would be grateful for Highbottom for sending me to Twelve, but here I am. Especially with you here.”

Opening your eyes, you were not met with Coryo’s own staring back. Rather, they avoided you as they stared off toward where the rest of the group swam. A look of contemplation and seriousness carved its way onto his chiseled features. Panic started to bubble beneath your heart as possibilities started running rampant in your mind. You knew everything was too perfect to last.

“I don’t think we are going to be here much longer, Y/N.”

Your eyebrows furrowed as you tried to decipher his meaning and bring some semblance of comfort to your body that started to chill. “This place,” Coriolanus continued, “it isn’t for us. We are meant to be in the Capital. We belong there, not hiding away in the woods.”

It was never to be expected that Coriolanus would like Twelve, but how exactly were the two of you supposed to go back when your exile was far from over? Not to mention, you were unsure of what to expect back at the Capital with no home nor father. Sejanus would be adamant on staying in the districts, and Arachne... well, you were unsure of Arachne these days. The only other people you were sure you could rely on were the Snows, and they themselves had no support, even less so with these weeks of separation from Coriolanus. Yet, of course, the blonde had a plan at hand to ease your apprehension.

“I was offered an officer position in One. It would be so much more pay. I can send back to my family. They are struggling so much, Y/N. They even moved out of the apartment. I need to go, and you to come with me. I’m not being separated from you again.”

Your grip on the young man tightened as you started feeling weak, even as shivers rattled your bones. Coryo immediately noticed and was quick to swim you back to shore in worry. Thoughts of the Snows' struggles and sacrifices tried to crawl their way to the forefront of your brain to distract you from the numbing feeling. Coriolanus sprinted to the basket of towels the Covey brought along and grabbed far too many in your opinion but far too few in his. The water wasn’t cold, not enough to make you shiver. And it was so instantaneous as well. No signs of cold until he mentioned his proposition, and you were suddenly freezing. You were thinking the same thing as you finally accepted this was a recurring issue. Since coming to Twelve, these bouts of frost overtook you but left within a few minutes. Though, as you expected it to wear off soon, a foreign prickling pain took hold of your right leg.

A horrific sight had black spots clouding your vision. Ice-blue crystals scaled up your shin, thinning out near your knee. You looked up to see Coryo coming back to you, and in a panic, you made the decision to try to rub it off. A horrible choice, as stings of pain shot through your veins and up to the arteries strangling your heart. An uncontrollable shout of agony left your mouth, causing the already fast strides of young Snow to rapidly speed up. He immediately dropped to his knees, covering you with warm, sun-baked towels. It was then that his eyes caught your leg. The quick-thinking Coriolanus was stunned into a bewildered freeze; his ever-turning gears halted in a mirage of anger, confusion, worry, and shock.

"I don't know, Coryo. I don't know!" you cried as emotion cracked your voice. He was still silent as he grabbed your leg to examine it while you tried to bite back any more yelps. You wished to scream at him to stop when you felt his finger lightly graze the frost, but suddenly, it started to melt away. Once assured that there wasn’t a single prickle of ice left, Coryo’s full attention turned to your lightly shivering body.

“Y/N…”

“It’s been happening since I got on the train to Twelve. I’ve tried all I can to figure out whatever ailment this is, but what is the cure to ice?!”

“Fire.”

You leveled him with an unimpressed look, undermined by the fear dancing in your eyes. Exhaustion engraved itself on your face and body language. Comfort wrapped itself around you in the form of Coryo’s arms. The constant cycle of joy and ruin was becoming too much; you just wished for peace. Not even the furthest edges of Twelve could provide it. Nothing could, except the boy you were tangled up with. You let your mind wander into a blank state while Coriolanus never had the privilege. Instead, he was calculating what could have caused your problem. You said it had been since you got on the train to Twelve. If that bastard Highbottom laid a finger on you—

"Hey, lovebirds, lunch is ready!" Sejanus shouted from further down the beach, waving you two over.

You snuggled closer to the man as a whisper snuck out. “You really think I can transfer out of here?”

The look he sent your way was the embodiment of gentleness and endearment. "You are the best mind this whole district has. I’m sure they can recognize that your place is far greater than here."

You didn’t agree with your “superiority” to the district-born, but you were open to leaving the place you were starting to love. The strings of your heart did pull at the thought of consciously leaving your uncle behind, even if he didn’t seem to recognize or enjoy your presence. You enjoyed the friendship of Lucy Gray and the antics of her sister and Rowan. Oh, Rowan and Kane. You had yet to fully comprehend that you had a cousin and the eerie similarities between your late brother and the man who took his moniker. Though, you did know where your loyalty lay most of all. It would cut you to know you would leave business unfinished, at least for now. But it would kill you to be apart yet again from the man whose love was an uncontrollable element of your existence.

Coryo slowly stood up to give you time to adjust and aided you up like any good-sensed gentleman would. His hand intertwined with yours as a hopeful smile grew on his handsome face.

“So you would come with?”

“Told you, where you go, I go. One ain’t so bad compared to an arena filled with people who want to kill you.”

You didn’t have to remind him of the cost of your loyalty. Though the confirmation made his heart soar and his stomach knot as his plan was nearly set. As the two of you met up with the rest of your group, Coriolanus helped you put your hair out of the way of your food. In the process, his swiftness and subtlety completed the last part of his plan. While surrounded by warm and lively conversation, the pocket of Coriolanus was weighed down with a ring of anticipation.

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After several hours of answering the endless questions from Maude-Ivory and Rowan about the Capitol, it was late afternoon, and time to go back. The covey had a show later that night, and Ott-Kane had to get ready for his shift at the bar. It slightly frightened you how easily your subconscious was willing to call him Otto. The foreign feeling lingered off your tongue, and the constriction of your heart made you uneasy. Your friends left oddly quickly, and even Sejanus didn't wait for you or Coryo. The latter was oddly slow to take his leave. For all his talk of wanting to leave Twelve, he did take his time looking around an unusual number of times. His behavior made you antsy, and your natural instinct was to grip your metal rings, which had brought you comfort these past few weeks. However, the action provided the exact opposite of the comfort you sought.

Horror made you nauseous as you felt your bare neck. Over and over again, you slapped your neck and chest, yet not a single one of the three rings was there. Short breaths were the only sounds you could hear above the blood pounding in your ears. How could you be so careless?! They were certainly expensive pieces of jewelry, but to you, they were priceless. They represented your mother, your legacy, and your love.

You searched everywhere in your immediate vicinity, doing your best not to alert Coriolanus. It was his family ring, among yours, that you had lost. Oh, he would be so disappointed. Maybe even furious at your reckless behavior. However, there is very little one can hide from the watchful eye of the Snow heir.

"Your rings!"

"I know! Please, please don't be mad! I don't even know how I lost them; they are always so secure. What if I lost them, Coryo! Oh no, what if I lost them? What do I do? Oh my—"

"Y/N! Love, please just breathe!"

Hands on your shoulders forced you to inhale and exhale. The process helped you calm, but it could not lift the doom placed upon you. You met Coriolanus's eyes, which you expected to be hard with annoyance at your panic, yet they were barely concerned. There was a softness to them you felt was undeserved.

"Let's go find them, okay?"

You were already taking steps back toward the lakefront, but Coryo suggested you look in the woods. It was too late to inform him that, if your memory served you correctly, you had your necklace during your trek here. Only after your swim and the ice debacle did you lose track of the family heirlooms' location. But Coriolanus was already lost in the trees as you ran to catch up with him. His walk wasn't one of slow scanning but a determined march. He didn’t even seem the least bit confused about where to go, as he should have been, being so new to this section of the woods. Rather, he knew exactly when to jump over tricky roots and when to move branches out of the way for you. The last rays of sunlight had already set, leaving twilight to dance above your heads. A beautiful sight you wished you could indulge in, but it only reminded you of the lost beauty you felt you were drifting further and further away from.

After several minutes of blindly trailing after Coriolanus, who barely glanced around, you cracked.

"Coryo, stop! We are going the wrong way. Please, we only have so much more light. I can't lose these too!"

The crack in your voice pierced his heart, but Coriolanus knew what he was doing. He was so, so close—just a few more steps.

"Let's just look a little further."

You gave an exasperated huff as your head tilted backward. Why was he being so difficult?

"Coryo, please—"

"Wait, what is that?”

Your eyebrows scrunched as Coryo pointed to something shiny a few feet ahead of you. Immediately, your feet carried you toward the possible source of your relief. So focused on the possibility, you didn’t realize the metal twinkled because of the numerous string lights surrounding the circular clearing of trees. You bent down and swiped the fallen leaves off quickly as your shaking hands gently lifted the metal. Though, apprehension turned into confusion as it was something you recognized, though it wasn't your adored jewelry. It was Coriolanus's peacekeeper dog tags.

You turned around, puzzled, as your eyes were still on the tags. "Coryo—"

All words, breath, and blood in you froze.

There, on one knee, a scene only from the most earnest chambers of your heart appeared. Coriolanus Snow held out the ring of his family, passed to you. The twinkling light encircling the two of you illuminated the display with bright yellow yarrow and pure white baby’s breath intertwined into bouquets among the branches. Even the warm lighting couldn’t fully hide the rouge and heat washing over Coriolanus’s smiling face.

"Y/N—"

In hindsight, you mentally kicked yourself for not waiting to hear his speech. Though you couldn’t blame yourself, as you fully threw yourself at the love of your life.

"YES! YES!"

You didn’t really think through your actions as you both fell back onto the dirt forest floor, but you didn’t mind, and seemingly enough, neither did Coryo, as you sealed your answer with a hundred little pecks. Your emotional hurricanes had been far too common lately, but in that moment, the few tears of joy and giddy laughter were welcomed as you held his face close and him to you.

"You are sure? What if my speech was horrible?"

A tear and a laugh couldn’t be contained as you rolled your eyes at the ridiculous question. "It’s your smooth talking that got the girl to say yes, Coryo. So yes, I’m sure."

A grin split his face as he dived back in for one more kiss that would have melted into a mind-numbing amount more if you hadn’t broken it with a toothy grin of your own.

"So can I have my ring back?"

"Technically, it’s my house ring."

"Either way, it’s mine now, isn’t it?" You smirked, and the flushed young man couldn’t help the fluttering feeling in his heart float freely.

"Well yes, it is, Mrs. Snow."

Somehow, even with your tumble to the ground, the ring of Snow still remained in Coriolanus’s hands. Hand in hand, his slightly calloused fingers gently slid the shimmering heirloom along your ring finger. It fit perfectly. A good thing, as its integrity would be tested when suddenly a force picked you up and spun you around.

"Finally!!"

Sejanus’s voice rang out as the trees turned into blurs while you were spinning in the air.

"I do think Mr. Snow would like his fiancée in one piece, Sejanus."

Arachne’s dry voice rang out but was mixed with a tone of softness so foreign to the redhead. As you were placed down, albeit a bit dizzy, it was no longer just you and Coriolanus in the clearing. Sejanus and Arachne you heard (and felt), but you were also graced with a giddy and jumping Lucy Gray, the cheering and dancing pair of Rowan and Maude-Ivory, and a content Kane leaning against a large-trunked tree.

You turned to Sejanus as the brightly smiling boy crushed you in a hug, and you cackled in shock. "I'm so happy for you two!"

"I can tell by the way you’re crushing my wife to death.”

Coryo’s presence was felt as Sejanus let go with a sheepish look, which turned into one of pride as he looked at his two closest friends, so happy with each other. Sejanus turned to hug and congratulate Coryo as you turned to a vulnerable-looking Arachne. She caught your eye and tried to give her best genuine smile, though you could tell it was a bit of a struggle.

"Congrats, Ace. You deserve it."

Her voice was laced with an unspoken sadness that she tried to cover up with joy for the two of you. It puzzled you, as you couldn't figure out what the gravity of her tone could be from.

"Hey, don’t give me that face. I’m still going to need a maid of honor and a friend to complain to." You joked with her to lighten the mood, and thankfully, she laughed along. Arachne wasn't one for hugs nor sentimentality; you knew that much, but she did try her best. She placed a hand on your shoulder as a light smile curved her lips upwards.

"I’m being serious, Y/N. You deserve your happiness, no matter who it is."

Arachne didn’t give you much time to ponder her last bit as she turned away, and your attention was grabbed by an elated Lucy Gray. Immediately, you were enveloped in a hug.

"Soulmates! You two are made for each other, and now you are getting married!"

Her ecstatic voice rang through the trees as your giggle followed its pathway. You separated from the embrace, and your eyes crinkled from your smile.

"Thank you! Though, I do have a favor to ask of you as your friend. The wedding wouldn't feel complete without you there—"

"I thought you would never ask!"

Yes, another crushing embrace (you weren’t sure your ribs were going to hold due to the amount of these hugs). "Oh, please let me sing! Your love will be so easy to write and sing about. It flows as naturally as the river's waves."

You could only giggle at her excitement as you agreed, and yet another cheer erupted from her. An energy matched by the two jumping girls sprinting toward you, nearly crashing into your abdomen.

"Can we come, please, please?!"

"I can sing too! Lucy Gray says I'm getting just as good as her!"

"I can do all the flowers! I did the ones today, look!"

Suddenly, a bouquet of white and yellow flowers was thrust into your face by Rowan. You took it gently with a sweet smile as you examined the pretty floral arrangement.

"We both did it! Rowan did the yellow yarrow, and I did the white baby’s breath! It reminded me of Coriolanus's hair."

That made you and Lucy Gray burst into laughter at the admission.

"They both mean everlasting love! That's what Lucy Gray keeps saying you have!"

Your eyes drifted away from the ecstatic girls to your brunette friend, who met you with a satisfied grin. You turned back to the chaotic pair to greet them with good news.

"Well, nothing's a party if you two aren’t there, is that right?"

High-pitched shrieks of excitement erupted from the two as they hugged your lower body tightly.

"So we get to go to the Capitol?!"

Your mind paused at the question. You forgot the reality of your country and just how difficult it would be to get two little girls from the poorest district to attend your wedding. Lucy Gray could be argued for due to her victor status, but anyone else would be an issue. Though, you had a saving grace in the form of Rowan and practically Maude-Ivory’s older brother.

"Okay, you two have pestered her enough."

Groans of disappointment and debate were quickly shut down as the pair were beckoned by Lucy Gray to go congratulate Coriolanus. They begrudgingly followed the singer, who shared a quick honey-laced smile with Kane.

"Seems like there’s another love brewing, huh?"

You teased lightly as he flushed beneath the string lights’ rays. He scratched his neck as he gave you a shy yet proud look.

"I just wanted to say congratulations. You deserve that kind of love. I know you will go back eventually, and I am nothing compared to the Capitol’s might, but if he ever does anything, just know how good I am with a bow and arrow."

His words were spoken with such sincerity that holding back the flood of emotion was cracking through your composure. He sounded so much like your brother. You deserved the love given to you, and he deserved the name and respect your brother once held. Maybe it was too much, but you slowly wrapped your arms around him as you muttered a thank you into his chest.

"Thank you, Otto."

He looked down at your face in surprise, and as you looked up, he knew it wasn't a mix-up. He meant every word he said, as did you. He returned the embrace, and you felt transported back to that little five-year-old who didn’t know that would be the last time she hugged her brother, her world. Though this time, this wasn’t meant to be the last; it was just the beginning. You knew you would have to leave, but you swore to yourself it wouldn’t be forever. Your blood is both in the Capitol and right here in the woods of Twelve. You wouldn’t abandon either.

Coriolanus watched from afar as he felt relief for you. He knew how much this situation was tearing you apart. A minuscule piece of him, however, did regret taking you away from this newfound part of your long-thought-dead lineage. He wasn’t given much time to stew, though, as Arachne’s presence made itself known.

"Congrats, Coryo."

The blonde turned to the girl, who now had her eyes trained on you. A longing and devastation fought against each other in her chestnut-colored eyes.

"Arachne?"

He beckoned to the girl, but she closed her eyes as she tried to finally seal off her heart. She knew this was coming, and she should be more than grateful for your friendship. The universe never favored her anyways. Arachne Crane was always destined for the black matter, while you and Coryo were the sun's favorite muses.

"You've won once again. Treat her well." And she was off. Coriolanus knew of her affections for you and didn’t wish to parade you off to her. Though, he couldn’t help but feel pride at being able to call you his. His wife. Ambition never resting on him, soon to call you his first lady. Coriolanus sauntered over to your conversation with Otto, who nodded approvingly to the man who was now your husband-to-be and left you two. You turned with a lovesick grin to the charming man.

"So to be clear, I didn’t lose my rings?"

Coriolanus laughed, shaking his head, as he grabbed your necklace from his pocket, dangling it in front of you. You turned around without a word as he seamlessly clipped it around your neck. Now only the two your mother always wore were along the fine chain. The most important radiated upon your finger.

"Oh, I still have your dog tags!"

"Keep them."

You cocked your head at his proposition, but you had no room to argue when he gently took them from your fingers and made them neighbors with the fine jewelry already there. You softly caressed the metal that had his name engraved upon it and turned to the tall blonde.

"Well, now everyone knows I’m yours."

"Well, I can’t complain about that now, can I?"

Oh, to be young and in love. To live in a dream. Yet, all must wake from their dreams, and you didn’t have a choice in the method. If you did, you would have never chosen the method of death.

⋆✦⋆⋇⋆✦⋆⋇⋆✦⋆⋇⋆✦⋆⋇⋆✦⋆⋇⋆✦⋆⋇⋆✦⋆

@notyourwildestdream 🌹@darktrashsoulbear 🌹 @scarletstarrs 🌹 @queenofshinigamis 🌹 @nekee-lilac02 @fantasylovestoryme 🌹 @a-avengerparker 🌹

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koiyan-hades-kid-with-a-system · 7 months ago

Text

Camp/Underworld Quotes #6

Koiyan, making exotic wines and meads: Be the wine experimenter they said. It'll be fun they said.

Cory, helping them bottle the wines: Wtf is a star fruit?

Koiyan, done with their pale white ass not knowing 90% of the exotic fruits they know: Questions later, bottling now.

Dionysus, seeing Koiyan make wines with ease: ...Are you sure you're not my child?

Koiyan, making rice wine on the roof: It's just the Vietnamese in me.

Other kids, getting wasted easily, looking at Koiyan: How come you're not a Dionysus kid and not drunk at this point?

Koiyan, been drinking since she was 2 years old: Experience

Other kids: How?

Koiyan: Vietnam has no legal drinking age. Kids start drinking usually at 10-12 there. My mortal step-father did.

Cory: Why rice wine?

Koiyan, taste testing the rice wine: It's what my area of Vietnam is known for.

Koiyan: When I die I want Cory to lower me into my grave so they can let me down one last time.

Zagreus: I'm gonna get my pilot's license. I've already got a driver's license and a cosmetology license, that's two of the big five licenses.

Koiyan: The big five licenses?

Zagreus: Driver's license, cosmetology license, pilot's license, fishing license, and… license to kill! I can't wait to get that one.

Zagreus, helping Thanatos dispose the bodies Koiyan made: You stole my Adamant Rail for this.

Koiyan: The alters wanted violence and Ares told us to help with the war.

Zagreus: What state do you live in?

Thanatos: Constant anxiety.

Cory: Denial.

Koiyan: Perfection.

Cyrilla, pointing to all of the camp: NEW YORK! WE'RE ALL IN NEW YORK LONG ISLAND.

Koiyan: I’ve become a bread crumb dealer to four crows at the lake. They pay me with a bit of everything. Like shiny things, fabric, or pens. But recently they paid me with a 20 dollar bill they found somewhere. So I decided to buy them some more expensive bread. They loved it. So they understand what to do. Give me money. I’ve probably racked up about 200 dollars at this point. Is it morally wrong though, I mean. They’re the ones who steal the money from others. Or perhaps they just have a big pile laying somewhere. Should I keep on doing this?

Cory: You sound like the start of a Batman villain.

Koiyan, now being flocked by crows: More like the crazy bird lady from Home Alone 2

Koiyan: I think you're still suffering the effects of your party last night.

Nico: All I drank was Redbull!

Koiyan: How many?

Nico: Eighteen.

Koiyan: I'm getting Will-

Cyrilla: Whose turn is it to give the pep-talk before capture the flag?

Koiyan: *sighing* Zagreus.

Zagreus, now hanging around camp and is now a camp counselor: Fuck shit up out there, but don’t die.

Cory: *wiping away a tear* So inspirational.

Cyrilla: *is hugging Koiyan*

Thanatos: Hey! It's my turn to hug Koiyan!

Thanatos: *grabs Koiyan*

Zagreus: *kicking down the door* What do you mean, "yOuR tUrN"? We agreed now is my time slot!

Cyrilla: No, It's still my turn!

Koiyan: *suffocating* Guys, I love you, but just because I'm the smallest doesn't mean you can be hugging me constantly!

Thanatos: But we need the moral support!

Cyrilla: And you're small! Which is cute!

Zagreus: If I don't hug you right now I think the depression will kick in and my body will stop functioning.

Koiyan: *close to tears* Well- I, I guess.

Koiyan, at the slightest provocation: I came into this earth screaming and covered in someone else's blood and and I'm not afraid to leave the same way.

Zagreus, knowing its her cycle: Want chocolate?

Koiyan, about to cry: Yes please.

Koiyan: *Plays Slender: The Eight Pages*

*Jumpscare*

Koiyan, the only Asian in the group: *Jumps back* OH SHIT, IT'S A WHITE GUY!!!

Cyrilla: Do you mean me?

Koiyan: Not this time

Koiyan, to Cory: You're starting to forget your Spanish. You don't practice.

Cory: Lo siento. Estoy embarazada.

Koiyan: You just told me you're pregnant.

Thanatos: Congratulations Cory, you're glowing!

Cyrilla: Who's the unlucky guy?

Koiyan: Estoy rodeado de idiotas (I am surrounded by idiots)

Cory: Where's Zagreus?

Koiyan: Don't worry, I'll find them.

Koiyan, shouting: Thanatos sucks!

Zagreus, distantly: Thanatos is the best person ever! Fuck you!

Koiyan: Found them.

Thanatos, tearing up: Babe...

#percy pjo #pjo #hades pjo #percy jackon and the olympians #percyjackson #cabin 13 #pjo oc #greek mythology #incorrect quotes #emo boyfriends are canon #nico di angelo #will solace #pjo dionysus #zagreus #thanatos

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indiaalphawhiskey · 6 months ago

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about polin - i just realised i haven't been excited over a straight couple in media in foreeeever.. what is it?? i just started to read some fanfic!! i never do that unless it's queer (i don't fully understand why tbh).. and i did really really love kanthony, but i wouldn't go read a fic about it 🫣

i mean tbf i think they're both really hot and luke and nicola have amazing chemistry while with kanthony, i was mostly just.. aesthetically in awe?

maybe it's the origin story of friends to lovers.. or penelope being the "wallflower".. idk

anyway, i love reading your thoughts and excitement 🥰

Dude, I feel you so much. I haven’t read/written het fanfic since I was 16 and honestly I’m so shocked at how gassed up I am for this couple, I’m scaring myself a little. 🤣🤣🤣

I do think Luke and Nic have managed to pull Colin and Pen from the page in a way that I haven’t seen before. They’ve also had us attached to them for years now, in a way I haven’t felt about a TV couple in a while, which I think is about half of where this insane magic comes from. I loved both Season 1, 2 and Queen Charlotte, but we meet these leads in their season, so we’re not invested at the same level, and frankly, unless they plant some seeds at the end of this Season, I don’t think we’ll feel this way about any of the other incumbent couples.

And yeah, for me, Cory and India had fantastic chemistry but that didn’t make me want to read fic about their characters or any of the others. I think it’s just the perfect cocktail of “will they, won’t they” and the fact that Luke and Nic are also giving one hell of a press tour.

#iaw ask #iaw anonymous #polin #bridgerton

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swallowtailed · 8 months ago

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palisade 43

man. incredible episode.

really pulling the entire divine cycle together—calling back to the hypha, to strati, to volition—and the whole sweep of partizan/palisade.

extremely cute intro. hopping back on air (while high) to freestyle for the entire twilight mirage, honor the dead, drop one “valence” in there real quick, and get out again. parti rights. we’re baaack~ :D

thisbe this episode: hooting hollering etc. worldwide resonance!! her conversation with volition was really compelling. it did strike me that volition seemed to approach the question of divine autonomy from a rather individualist angle (just think yourself free! let people do what they want!), which i suspect is an artifact of (a) living in a supportive community for 500 years & so somewhat forgetting the importance of that, and (b) being volition. i do think that thisbe is on the right track in the principality context, looking toward community building.

also it’s so funny that volition just is an obsidian orb again sometimes. trans rights

brnine this episode: describing grief as a disconnect from your past akin to leaving entire planets is so perfect for brnine. also devastating. loved the sandwich callback as well, that was one of my favorite twilight mirage beats.

am pulling together thoughts about brnine getting challenged to stay in the mirage or leave and fight. when you’ve been defending the distant concept of an ideal, how do you handle the reality of it—especially when that reality is something you were never meant to see, and is so disconnected from the circumstances of your life and your cause. but of course brnine’s tied their life entirely to their idea of keeping up the fight, and haven’t thought that anyone they’re honoring could ever have wanted anything else. (it is also: blue channel going back at the end of partizan.)

have we considered the possibility that ali isn’t gonna have brnine say valence’s name unless and until it’s with their last words

on that note: you know, if someone was terrified of dying, but also sort of craved death, and also grounded their self-worth in their fight for their cause, it would seem awfully appealing to be promised endless life as long as you don’t stop moving. very here for jesset’s motion era. i don’t think there’s enough left of motion to take an elect… is this a dark mirror of integrity? something burrowing in? jesset’s brain gets hooked into that mech…

but also what do we think he’d pick for his elect name if he did pick one. has to be a plant, right? and he already has another naming scheme to fit as well… i think it should be catnip

eclectic this episode: of course he’s trying to arrest the divine who killed his squadmate in front of him, aka the first chapter of every noir procedural ever.

what is futgure doing ohhhhh my god

hey also we still don’t know dre’s new character? many questions

cori this episode: SO glad she’s joined perennial. love this for her. also the… black russian sage wings???? excellent. her entire conversation with perennial was so moving—reaching out to figure and finding their god doing the same is such a piece of tragedy. and the way the need to protect is shared among the three of them—have not stopped thinking about figure just wanting to see cori safe and happy. and then cori holding perennial as she sobs.

“we were figure’s people” is exactly what i wanted someone to say but also ;-;

the conceit of doing a story in a time loop is that you’re gonna repeatedly say, well, can’t do it this time, better move on—which sucks when the loop is a revolution, right, because then it’s implied that liberation is a one in a billion chance and more than likely impossible. (fine starting place, frustrating ending.) but with perennial no longer able to turn back the clock, it gives cori room to declare that there’s no need to keep restarting, they can win it here and now. it’s never impossible. which i am glad for.

look i’m sure they’re just gonna do 1-2 more downtime eps and then 4-7 finale eps and that’ll be palisade but. clears throat. taps mic. It’s Gonna Be Really Funny When They Do Thirty More Episodes. ok that’s all

#fatt #palisade #fatt spoilers #hello world #fatt lb #god. extremely good episode. palisade…………….

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rriavian · 8 months ago

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Hey do you think Dream like to show off Cori? I mean he is creator and most of creator love to see their work get appreciated but maybe just Dreamer scared Cori is enough for his ego?

Ooh! Yes! Thank you so much for the ask I loved thinking about this!! <3

I don’t necessarily see Dream as one to really fall prey to ego. He’s definitely proud, and possessive, but I think he sees the Corinthian’s very existence as showing him off. To display him any further undermines, implies Dream could improve by an edit, that there is a need to persuade another to appreciate him and all that does is suggest a deficit.

The Corinthian is the display; a walking line of poetry, an art exhibit, he needs no additions and if you cannot see how perfect he is, well, that’s your fault.

Dream just doesn’t think any extra trappings are needed, the artistry is there already, and he will not show the Corinthian off as if he considers his nightmare subject to the judgement of another’s eyes. Dream submits his work for the approval of no one. I do think it is enough that the Corinthian scares the Dreamers! He created the Corinthian to reflect part of humanity, their darkness and their pain, to give voice to it, and that is a solemn, dutiful thing as much as it is a joyful one.

That said…

If someone made the mistake of saying ‘wow what a shit creation’ Dream would be like how dare you actually, what the fuck are you saying this is my creation (this is humanity’s shy commission, their souls, their darkness, what they hide and bury so deep in uncertainty and vulnerability, and Dream gave it form with such bold confidence because there should be no shame)

It’s a personal slight, it’s one far deeper; one against every Dreamer that needs the Corinthian, now jeered at too, belittled, all that have been helped by him caught in that disdain.

How wrong that is, how cruel, to insult both a wound and the salve offered to soothe it.

#corintheus #dream of the endless #the sandman #the corinthian #rria answers #i'm a little behind on my asks #but catching up!

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tragicfrabricofdreaming · 6 months ago

Text

Dark Hearts .3

Summary: Cori Douglas has lived a somewhat quiet life in mystic falls. Despite a few slip ups, she has managed to fly under the radar with her best friends. That is, until her junior year when two new mysterious men roll into town and shake everyone up, including her best friend Elena. What will Cori find out about these mysterious men and about herself? Mostly follows the storyline of tvd show but may take some creative liberties.

“She swore vengeance on all men with dark hearts.”

― Lisa Papademetriou, Siren's Storm

Series Masterlist

“Career fairs just make me sad,” Cori says to Elena as they walk through the school hallways, glancing at the various tables that were set up with prospective jobs the students could go with. Things had been relatively calm since Halloween, other than Elena informing her that she and Stefan were breaking up and he was moving away. Although, he was still making appearances in town like a lingering cold. Cori wasn’t necessarily happy that Elena and Stefan had broken up, she knew that he made her friend happy and she had grown to like him, but she was somewhat glad that she was able to spend more time with Elena.

“Sad?” Elena chuckles, “Why?

“There are just so many things that I could do, you know?” Cori groans, looping her arm through Elena’s as they walk, “But I only have one lifetime so there’s no way I can do it all, which just makes it incredibly hard for me to decide, and making decisions makes me sad, you know this.” She tugs on Elena’s arm.

“You could be an artist, like your dad.” Elena points to the table Hayden had set up down the hallway.

Cori laughs, “You’ve seen my painting skills…I may have gotten my nose from my dad but that man did not pass down his artistic abilities.”

Elena laughs with her friend and they stop at a table run by the local bakery, Elena picks up a brochure, “What about a lawyer?”

Cori looks at her friend, “Every argument I have I end up crying in the middle of it.”

“True.” Elena and her move on from the table and glance around the hallway. Elena notices Matt further down the hall and touches Cori’s arm, “I’m gonna go say hi to Matt, I’ll catch up with you.” Cori nods, watching curiously as Elena goes to approach the blond quarterback whose sister is still missing. While Elena and Matt were dating, Cori and him were civil with each other but had never really bonded. She always thought Matt was really nice and Elena a year ago would be perfect with him, but the Elena of the present day was not the same. It made sense for her to move on, even if it was hard for Matt to accept.

Cori notices their new history teacher, Mr. Saltzman, perusing the tables close to her and she approaches him. Her dad had known Alaric when they went to Duke together and had given Cori a heads-up when he was hired as the replacement for Mr. Tanner who had died the night of the first football game. She liked Mr. Saltzman, he was nice and seemed to be passionate about history.

“Hey, Mr. Saltzman,” she greets him, standing at his side at the table for the police station, “thinking of joining the force?” She jokes.

Alaric smiles at her, “Hi, Cordelia,” he laughs, “I don’t think they’d want me fighting crime, I’m a horrible shot.” He says, abandoning the brochure he had been looking at.

“That's a relief,” Cori says, “I would hate to have a third history teacher three months into the year.”

Mr. Saltzman gestures to the rest of the tables around them, “What about you? You have your future all planned out?” Cori exhales deeply, shaking her head.

“Not even a little bit. I have a lot of ideas, but I’m not sure which one will be the right one.” She admits.

“Well, you have time,” He assures her, “And the first choice you make doesn’t have to be the right one, you can change your mind.”

“See, logically I know that, but part of me can’t fathom not making the right choice the first time around.” She chuckles softly, “I’m a bit of a perfectionist.”

Alaric laughs, “I noticed that from the assignments you’ve turned in so far,” he says, “reminds me of your mom.” Cori finds herself smiling widely. It wasn’t often that people in Mystic Falls really remembered her mom being around so it was nice to talk to someone who knew her well. Despite not being close with her mother, Cori always admired her and it was a comparison she didn’t mind getting. Looking over Alaric’s shoulder, Cori spots Stefan lurking down the hall. She furrows her eyebrows together at the sight of him.

“It was nice talking with you, I’ll see you in class tomorrow.” She departs from Alaric and makes her way towards the younger Salvatore, a friendly smile on her face, “Hey,” she greets, snapping him out of his intense observation of Elena.

“Oh, hey, Cori,” he slides his hands into his pockets, feeling like he just got caught doing something he shouldn’t.

“I wasn’t expecting to see you here.” She admits, leaning against the wall next to him. Stefan shrugs, a non-response that makes Cori sigh, “Stefan, look,” she takes a breath, getting his full attention, “I like you. I think you’re a good guy and you made Elena really happy.” His eyes dart away from hers briefly, a sadness within them that makes Cori chew on her lip, “I was rooting for you guys. But, you keep telling Elena you’re going to leave and yet here you are.” She gestures to his stature, standing there in the school hallway, “It’s messing with her. If you’re going to leave, you need to do it.” She places a gentle hand on his arm as if to remind him that she isn’t trying to be harsh but this is just the truth. They share a quick goodbye and Cori leaves him alone to think about what she said.

After looking at all the tables set up in the hall and witnessing a fight breaking out between Jeremy and Tyler, Cori decided it was time to go home. Unfortunately, she had ridden here with her dad and he had to stay until the fair was over since he was running a table. Deciding she didn’t want to wait and having walked home from school a million times before, Cori heads out to the parking lot by herself.

She’s barely away from the building before a truck pulls up beside her, “Hey, damsel in distress,” the driver, Logan Fell, has his window rolled down and that signature charming smile on his face, “need a ride?” He asks. Cori knew Logan the way most people knew him. He was a familiar face on her TV screen since he was a news reporter but he had also babysat her a few times when she was younger.

“Hi, Logan,” she smiles at him, her hands stuffed into her denim jacket pockets. “I was just going to walk home, it’s really not far.”

“Oh, come on, Cor, I’m not going to let you walk home alone at night,” he says, “It’s practically on my way. Hop in.” Logan insists. Cori gives in, accepting his offer and walking to the opposite side of his truck, opening the passenger door, and climbing inside.

“Thanks,” she says, “I was supposed to wait for my dad to be done, but I’m just so tired.” She huffs, looking at Logan in the driver's seat, “Do you remember the way?” She asks, noting that he hasn’t started driving yet.

“Of course I do,” he smiles, “But first, buckle up.” Cori grabs her seatbelt and leans down to buckle it in place. After that, everything goes dark.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“Shit,” Damon hisses when he opens the passenger door of Logan Fell’s truck. The newly turned vampire had just run off in the middle of Damon’s interrogation, successfully avoiding the question of who turned him. Logan had called Sheriff Forbes after kidnapping Cori from the parking lot, threatening to turn her into a vampire as some weird attempt at proving he meant business. Unluckily for him, he was still easy to track and Damon found him before he could do any more damage. Now, he was left with a passed-out Cordelia with a head wound.

“Hey,” Damon taps her cheek gently trying to get her to wake up. He could hear her heartbeat in her chest so he knew she was very much alive. He holds her face in his hands, keeping her head from lulling side to side, “Cordelia, can you hear me?” The only response he gets is a whimper from the back of her throat. Just as he’s considering feeding her some of his blood to heal the wound, two cars pull up behind Logan’s truck and he stops himself. “Alright, come on.” wraps his arms around her back and under her knees, lifting her out of the car smoothly. This movement seems to stir her a little bit, her eyelids fluttering.

“Damon?” She groans, not able to keep her eyes open for longer than it takes her to realize who was carrying her.

“Yeah, I got you,” Damon assures her, rounding the front of the truck to see Sheriff Forbes and Hayden Douglas rushing out of their cars to meet him.

“Oh my God, Cori.” Hayden rushes up to the Salvatore brother, his eyes locked on his unconscious daughter, “Is she okay?” He touches her head gently, worried eyes scanning the fresh wound on her head.

“Yeah, I think she’s okay,” Damon says. He turns his attention to the Sheriff, “Logan got away, I’m not sure where he went but we got here just in time.”

Carol Forbes nods slowly, her brows frowning in concern as she looks at the limp girl in Damon’s arms, “We’ll find him,” she places a reassuring hand on Hayden’s back, “why don’t you take her to the hospital, get her checked out?”

Hayden brushes his hand through her hair, chewing on his bottom lip in concern, “Yeah, okay,” he nods, “Let’s lay her down in the backseat.” He nods to Damon.

Damon follows him to his car and carefully lays Cori down in the backseat, taking extra care of her head as he sets her down. He straightens up, facing Hayden as the father closes the door, “Thank you,” he says softly, almost like it was hard for him to say. Their last conversation was when Hayden had explicitly said to stay away from his daughter. He had never been so grateful that his wishes were ignored, “For saving her…I owe you one.”

Damon claps him on the shoulder, “Don’t worry, I’m just glad I got here in time.” He backs away slowly, wanting to get back on Logan’s trail as soon as possible to find out who had turned the son of a bitch, “Get her home safe.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“Dad, I’m fine,” Cori swats her dad’s hand away as he attempts to help her out of the car the next morning. She didn’t remember anything after she walked out of the school building last night. The first thing she really remembered after leaving the career fair was waking up in the hospital in the middle of the night with a terrible headache. Her dad was there holding her hand from where he sat next to her bed. According to him, she had slipped and hit her head on the steps when she was leaving. Damon had found her passed out on the ground and was the one to ultimately come to her rescue.

Cori was shocked that she couldn’t remember any of that, but the doctors who were observing her said that it was normal for the type of head wound she had endured. They kept her in the hospital the whole night just to observe her but let her go home in the morning with the promise that she would get plenty of rest and limit her screen time.

That was where she was now, her dad hovering over her like she was a glass doll who was going to shatter into a million pieces at any second. She really felt fine, the meds they had given her at the hospital had helped with her headache and despite feeling tired and a little dizzy she was only left feeling slightly confused.

“Just…take it easy on the stairs,” Hayden says, his hand on her lower back as she attempts to walk up the steps to her room.

“Dad,” she groans, “The doctor said I would be back to normal tomorrow, which means I’m 85% normal today. Which means I can walk up the stairs to my room by myself.” She glares at him. Cori knew he meant well but she just wanted to lie down and be alone.

Her dad sighs, dropping his hands in defeat, “Fine,” he says, “Go upstairs and rest, I’ll make you something to eat.”

She smiles at him in gratitude and climbs the rest of the steps by herself, only tripping on the very last one. She can hear her dad rushing to help her again but she holds up her hand, “I’m okay!” She insists, “I do that all the time, that isn’t a sign of a brain injury.”

Cori rubs the back of her sore neck as she enters her room, toeing her shoes off before she roots through her purse in search of her phone. After retrieving it, she groans at the flashing battery image that appears and plugs it into the charger on her nightstand before she heads into her connected bathroom to start the water for a hot bath.

With the tub filling up, she heads back into her room to collect her now alive phone. She has a few missed calls from Caroline and Bonnie with a few corresponding texts but the most alarming amount of calls has come from Elena so she decides to start there. Keeping the phone plugged into the charger, Cori selects Elena’s name and sits on the edge of her bed while she listens to it ringing, having a clear view of her bathtub so she can make sure it doesn’t overflow.

After a few rings, her call is answered but instead of Elena’s voice it’s a deep, male voice that says, “Hello, Elena’s phone.”

Cori frowned deeply, pulling her phone away from her ear to make sure she had actually selected Elena’s number. Sure enough, she had, “Elena? Do you have a cold or something?” She asks.

“Elena is…unavailable at the moment, Cordelia. But I’m glad to hear you’re conscious again.”

Her cheeks flame intensely as she realizes who she’s talking to, “Damon,” She says slowly, “Why do you have Elena’s phone?” She asks.

“She left it in my room last night I don’t think she realized yet.” There’s a faint protest on the other line and Cori rolls her eyes, realizing Damon was just trying to stir the pot. “She was just so distracted after the night we had.”

“Well, if you aren’t going to let me talk to Elena can you just tell her I’m fine, I saw that she called.” Cori winces at a sharp pain in her head, rubbing at her forehead like she would be able to massage it away. She pauses and says, “Thank you, by the way. My dad told me you’re the one that found me outside of the school after I fell.”

There’s a long pause from Damon before he answers, “It’s no problem, kid.” She rolls her eyes at the nickname, “I didn’t want to see you bleed out on the pavement.”

“Very generous of you,” she chuckles weakly as the pain in her head decreases.

“Yeah, I think Stefan’s hero complex is starting to rub off on me,” Damon says thoughtfully.

“We’ll have to do something about that, then,” She pinches the bridge of her nose and squeezes her eyes shut tightly, “We wouldn’t want your bad boy reputation getting tainted.”

“Yeah, we wouldn’t want that.” She can practically hear his eye roll from the other line, “But you’re okay, right? The doc cleared you and everything?” His tone takes a turn to concern and if she wasn’t in so much pain Cori would have been surprised.

“Yeah, I just have to rest and I should be back to normal tomorrow.”

“I won’t keep you, then. I’ll tell Elena you called.”

Cori rolls her eyes, “Give her phone back, freak,” she scolds him and then adds on, “Thanks again, Damon.”

“See ya, kid.” He hangs up the phone and the jolt of pain that strikes Cori is so strong that she drops her phone and doubles over on the edge of her bed. Her vision goes blurry and she hears the faint sound of running water coming from the bathroom.

Shit, the tub. She hadn’t been paying attention at all and the water from the rub was now overflowing onto the bathroom floor. She tries to get up to turn it off but the speed of her movements causes the room to spin and she falls to her knees.

Come, darling… A voice whispers and there’s a faint ringing in her ears as she desperately tries to get her vision to focus. Cori pushes herself to crawl toward the bathroom despite her bones feeling like they would give out on her at any second.

Closer darling…The same voice whispers when she passes the threshold into the bathroom. The tile floor was soaked with water, she can feel it soaking through her jeans and her socks as she scoots across the floor, her vision still blurry and spinning. She doesn’t know where the voices are coming form but all she can think about is getting to the faucet and turning off the water. Finally, she reaches the tub and holds herself up on the edge of it, “Closer, still…” it whispers again as she reaches a shaky hand forward, her fingers grazing the faucet handle, “You have nothing left to be afraid of, now…”

Just as she grasps the knob to shut off the water, a hand shoots out and grabs her wrist. Cori screams so loud her throat burns. The hand is a murky green color with scales crawling up the forearm and nails so sharp they were practically claws. Before she can scream again, the hand pulls her forward with such incredible strength that the front half of her body falls into the tub. She struggles against the hold of the hand but the more she fights the stronger they become, almost as if multiple hands were holding her underwater at once. She’s slowly losing air, thinking back to those times in the pool when she saw the same hand in the water and how she had felt this same sense of fear. They weren’t this strong before, though. She was under for too long, even as a champion swimmer she couldn’t hold her breath this long and she could feel the pain in her chest increase as she fought to keep water from getting in.

As she was fighting the urge to allow water into her lungs, she noticed the water around her was dark and depthless, unlike the tub she had assumed she was inside. It was like she was in a dark lake, looking down to see if she could spot the bottom. From the darkness, she sees something move. Long, dark hair moving with the water, and a face like nothing she had seen before. Smooth features covered in iridescent scales and eyes so bright blue it was almost like they were glowing. But what would really send her over the edge was when the face opened its scaly mouth rows of sharp teeth were revealed.

Cori opened her mouth and screamed in the water, forming bubbles all around her. The creature simply smiled at her fear, moving closer to the frightened girl.

Just as she was about to reach Cori, a hand grabbed her from above the surface and yanked her out of the water.

Suddenly, she was back in her bathroom, kneeling in front of her tub. The water had overflowed and was still soaking the bathroom floor but there was no darkness within the bathtub and no scaly hand reaching for her. Cori was still screaming. Over and over again she was screaming at the top of her lungs, her sopping wet hair sticking to the side of her face. She’s looking around the room with wide, frightened eyes while whoever had pulled her out was trying to comfort her by wrapping a towel around her.

“Shhh, Cori, you’re okay.” It was her dad’s voice, he was the one who had pulled her out of the tub, “Hey it’s me, it’s dad, you’re safe. Just breathe.” He soothes her as she coughs repeatedly, ridding her lungs of the water she has inhaled. He keeps repeating ‘you’re okay’ over and over again as she catches her breath, her coughs turning to sobs.

After calming down, Cori’s hoarse voice breaks through her sobs, “What’s happening to me, Dad?” She asks.

Hayden smooths her wet hair down, holding her to his chest, “I don’t know, honey,” he whispers against the crown of her head, squeezing his eyes shut when he hears the pain in her voice, “I don’t know.”

But Hayden Douglas did know what was happening to his youngest daughter. He knew very well what was occurring within her body and mind, he just couldn’t figure out how to explain it to her yet.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

While Hayden had fought against her return to school very hard, he was no match for a stubborn, stir-crazy Cordelia who was insistent that she get back to some semblance of normalcy. She had chalked up the incident in the bathroom to a symptom of her fall and had promised that she would tell her dad if she experienced anything else out of the ordinary. The one thing she did compromise on was not driving to school which was why she was now climbing into the front seat of Elena’s car.

“Thanks for picking me up.” Cori smiles, closing the door behind her and setting her coffee cup in the cupholder.

“Hey,” Elena greets, looking over at her friend and gesturing to the bandage on her head. It was significantly smaller than what she had started out with and she could mostly cover it up with her fringe but it was still noticeable, “How’s the wound?”

“It’s fine,” Cori huffs as she buckles her seatbelt, “just a reminder of my humiliation.”

“Come on,” Elena scoffs, rolling her eyes as she pulls away from the Douglas home and heads toward school, “it’s not humiliating, it could have happened to anyone.”

“No, Elena, this has Cordelia Douglas written all over it,” she insists, “I mean, it wasn’t even raining or anything. How does one just slip and crack her head open in the middle of the school parking lot?”

Elena bites her tongue, fighting the urge to tell her friend what had really happened. It could be a blessing that Cori didn’t remember being kidnapped by Logan. The more she could keep her friends out of all this business the better. Which reminded her of something as she rolled to a stop at a red light. “I got you something,” She reaches into the center console and pulls out a small box, handing it to her friend.

Cori gasps, taking the box, “For me?” She says in a high-pitched voice, “What’s the occasion?”

Elena chuckles and shrugs her shoulders, “I just saw it in a store and thought of you,” She says simply, hiding the real meaning behind the gift. Cori slides the lid off the box and gasps again, “Do you like it?”

“Like it? I love it!” She carefully retrieves the bracelet from the box and admires it. It was a classic bracelet of pearls with a sparkling pendant in the middle to hold them all together. She had never seen anything more beautiful in her life. Aside from her family’s necklace, of course, this was a close second. “Thank you, Elena, you really shouldn’t have.” She smiles genuinely at her friend as she carefully places the bracelet on her wrist.

“Consider it an ‘I’m sorry you got a concussion’ gift.” Elena returns the smile as the light turns green and she continues in the direction of the school.

“Well, if that’s the case maybe I should get concussions more often.” Cori holds her arm out in front of her, admiring the piece of jewelry in the light shining through the windshield.

Elena narrows her eyes, “Not funny.”

Cori shrugs, “Kinda funny.” She says.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

While she had never understood why this school did so many decade dances, Cori couldn’t fight the appeal of the poofy skirt on her dress. She was standing by a table with Bonnie and Caroline who were having even less fun than Cori who was currently swooshing her skirt back and forth. Everyone had nailed it with the costumes for this dance, she had to admit. She had picked out a white dress with small blue flowers all over it for herself and had styled her hair in such a way that her bangs covered the bandage she still had to wear on her head.

“Hey,” Elena approaches them, fidgeting with one of her earrings, “having fun?” She asks.

“No,” Caroline answers instantly, making Cori snort. The blonde was just upset that Matt had to work and didn’t ask her to be his date to this thing. That girl could sulk like no other. “But this took two hours,” she gestures to herself, “so I’m trying to stay for at least half of that.” Elena laughs.

Bonnie seems disengaged from the conversation, her eyes focused on something across the room, “What’s Damon doing here?” She asks. The remaining three friends turned and looked in the direction she was facing and, sure enough, Damon Salvatore was snaking through the crowd in the gymnasium.

“He wanted to come,” Elena says, turning to look at her friends who were all now giving her a disapproving look, “I promise he’ll behave.” The behavior that Cori had been scolded for when Damon had first come to town seemed to be the norm, now. She wasn’t going to bring that up, though.

“So what is this, like, a threesome now?” Caroline asks, failing to conceal her jealousy, “You and the Salvatore brothers?”

Elena rolls her eyes, “No, but, if I want to be with Stefan I’m going to have to learn to tolerate Damon.” She explains but the girls don’t seem convinced, especially Bonnie and Caroline, “It’s not like I can kill him.”

Bonnie’s eyes are still locked on the elder Salvatore as she says, “There’s a thought.”

“Mmm, I’ll help,” Caroline adds, clinking her punch glass with Bonnie’s. Elena looks down, trying hard not to smile at their comments, Cori goes back to swishing her dress back and forth.

“The twirl capabilities of this dress are astronomical.” She says as her attempt of changing the subject, “I mean, there’s a lot about the 50s that should stay in the 50s but I’d really love for these to come back in style.”

For the most part, her friends ignore her and look around the gymnasium wistfully, as if wishing for the fun night they had been expecting to have. Elena eventually wanders off to find Stefan, leaving her three friends alone once more. The vibe was so off tonight and Cori couldn’t put her finger on it. Bonnie seemed more irritable than normal, especially since she found out Damon was here, and Caroline was pouting uncontrollably. Cori had hoped this night would be fun enough to distract her from the other issues in her life that her friends didn’t know about. As it was panning out, it didn’t seem tonight would be the turning point she had hoped.

To make matters worse, Damon approaches their table with a confident smirk on his face, “Hi Bonnie, wanna dance?” He asks, extending his hand to her.

Bonnie looks disgusted, holding her hands up like that was her final straw, “I’m outta here.” She says, moving to walk away.

Damon is quick to step in front of her, closing off her escape route, “Please,” he says, looking into her eyes, “give me another chance.” Cori frowns at their interaction, wondering what had perspired between them that she had missed.

Bonnie ignores him, sidestepping his form and making her way out of the gym. Caroline sighs, moving to follow her, “Back off, Damon.” She glares, her dress swishing as she follows her friend out of the dance. Cori sighs, defeated by the fact that they had just walked away.

Damon turns back to Cori, opening his mouth to say something before Elena and Stefan approach, cutting him off, “Where did they go?” She asks Damon, craning her neck to hopefully see where Bonnie and Caroline had retreated to.

Damon shrugs, “I don’t know.”

Stefan eyes his brother carefully, “What did you say to them?” He asks his older brother who scoffs.

“I was perfectly polite.” He defends himself. In all honesty, if his history with all of them didn’t exist you could have assumed he was being perfectly polite from that one interaction but Caroline and Bonnie obviously saw right through it, “Elena,” Damon turns his attention to his brother’s girlfriend, “would you like to dance?”

Cori watches the interaction closely. To her surprise, and everyone else within earshot, Elena says, “I would love to,” she then looks up at Stefan, “May I have this dance?” Damon’s smile falls quickly and Cori has to cover her mouth to keep from laughing. Stefan seems quite pleased with his girlfriend’s wittyness and offers her his arm which she takes happily. After they slip away to the dancefloor, Damon turns to look at Cori with a look that said ‘can you believe that?’

She’s leaning her elbows on the table in front of her, holding her chin in her palms, “You kind of walked right into that one.” She shrugs.

Damon sighs, holding his hand out to her, “Would you like to dance, Cordelia?” He asks.

She looks from his hand to his face, scrunching her brows together, “What? Now that I’m the only one left?” She asks.

“No,” He says quickly, his confident smirk making another appearance, “because you owe me one,” her eyebrows shoot up, “you know, for not letting you bleed out in the parking lot.”

She sighs, rolling her eyes in defeat, “Right, your hero complex, I forgot about that,” she hadn’t forgotten at all. Cori finishes the contents of her punch glass and smooths her skirt out before reaching forward to take his hand, “Fine. One dance.”

Damon grins in triumph, taking her hand firmly in his before twirling her in a quick circle and pulling her into his chest. Cori giggles in surprise, placing the hand that wasn’t wrapped in his on his shoulder. She glances up at him as he expertly moves them further onto the dancefloor without missing a step. Her cheeks flush at their closeness and she curses her completely normal bodily reaction. “Don’t spin me too much,” She says, breaking the silence, “I’m still getting dizzy easily.”

‘Ah, right,” Their hands are clasped together tightly as they sway to the music and the hand that Damon has resting on her waist lifts up to her forehead, pushing her hair to the side so he can get a better look at her bandage, “how’s that head of yours?” His voice is barely above a whisper and she can hear him clear as day due to their closeness.

She shrugs and her skin erupts in warmth as his hand returns to her waist while her’s slowly slides down to his bicep, “It’s been better,” she says, “But I’m sure it would be a lot worse if you hadn’t found me when you did.”

He seems indifferent to this observation, shrugging his shoulders and glancing over the top of her head to observe the room around them, “You’ll have to start being more careful,” He says, leaning down so that his lips are right by her ear, “I might not always be around to save you.”

When he pulls back from her slightly, she frowns in a sort of frustrated grimace and he feels her fingers tighten on his bicep, “I can’t figure you out, Damon.”

“What do you mean?”

“I mean,” she sighs, “One minute you’re set on being the villain in everyone’s story, and the next you’re trying to get a redemption arc.” Their eyes are locked as she talks and the song they’re dancing to is coming to an end, “One minute I can’t stand you, and the next it’s like…”

“Like what?” Damon prods.

“Like I tolerate you,” that wasn’t what she was originally going to say but he didn’t need to know that.

“Oh, well, that’s just my irresistible charm, kid,” she rolls her eyes at the nickname but his tone turns serious, “But trust me, you don’t want to try and figure me out.”

“That’s like telling me I don’t want to breathe, Damon,” Cori tells him. The slow song they were dancing to fades into a more upbeat one and Damon reluctantly releases her hand and steps away from her.

“Thanks for the dance,” he smirks, “consider your debt paid.” He slips through the crowded gymnasium and Cori suddenly feels cold with his absence. She walks back to the table where she finds Caroline standing with her arms crossed over her chest.

“That looked cozy,” she remarks, that judgemental smirk of her’s very evident.

Cori frowns at her and comes to a stop right in front of her, “I thought you guys left?”

“I forgot my purse,” she holds up her small clutch, “Bonnie and I are gonna go to The Grill.”

“Oh,” Cori nods, reaching for her own bag that was sitting on the table, “I’ll go with you.”

Caroline rolls her eyes, “I don’t think so.” Her friend freezes, frowning on the blonde.

“What’s wrong?”

It’s like a switch is flipped in Caroline and her eyes narrow as she points an accusing finger at Cori, “You are such a hypocrite, Cori!” She exclaims, drawing the attention of some close by dancegoers.

Cori looks around her, embarrassed by her friend raising her voice, “Excuse me?” She raises an eyebrow.

“You were so quick to write off Damon when I was with him,” Caroline explains, “but the second we break up you jump at the chance to get close to him.”

Cori holds her hands up in defense, blinking in stunned silence while she processes what one of her best friends just accused her of, “Okay, first of all, it was one dance. I wasn’t jumping on him.” She clarifies, “And second of all, he sort of saved me from extreme blood loss when I fell the other night so I was just thanking him.”

“Why don’t you write him a thank you note next time?”

“I didn’t realize it would upset you, Caroline, I’m sorry.”

“I don’t believe you.”

“What do you mean you don’t believe me?”

“I think you knew it would upset me and that’s why you did it. You’re jealous of me so you want something that I can’t have.”

“How can you say that? It’s like you don’t even know me.”

“Well, maybe we don’t know each other like we thought we did.” Cori opens her mouth to respond but no words come out. She had no idea where this was coming from but she felt horrible for hurting her friend the way she did, “Find your own ride home.” Caroline spits before turning around and walking out of the dance. Cori can feel a few eyes on her as the argument drew a bit of attention. She wraps her arms around herself and ducks her head down as she heads for the bathroom, hoping something else will happen while she’s in there to make people forget.

She really hadn’t meant to hurt Caroline. She thought that dancing with Damon would be harmless since Caroline had been having this new thing with Matt and had seemingly moved on from her fling with Damon. She had been wrong. She felt awful and humiliated but also a little bit angry. Caroline had just assumed that Cori’s intentions were malicious without even talking with her first. As if Cori had done anything to purposefully hurt Caroline in the past. Had she not been as good of a friend as she thought she was?

A few girls leave the bathroom as she’s entering and Cori finds herself alone, something which she’s grateful for. She braces her hands on the sink and looks at herself in the mirror, examining her reflection. Did Caroline really see her as some sort of threat? If you looked at them side by side there had to be no comparison. Caroline was slim and beautiful. Her hair was always perfectly styled and her skin flawless, it was like she had an immunity to humidity. Her clothes always looked perfectly styled and she could start a conversation with anyone.

Cori was awkwardly taller than all of her other friends, sticking out like a sore thumb in all of their pictures together. She wasn’t nearly as slim as the rest of them and her skin had way more imperfections. No matter how much hairspray or heat she applied to her hair it would always manage to frizz up and look a mess. Everytime she was picking out an outfit she felt like a child playing dress up.

Sweeping her bangs out of the way, Cori examines the bandage on her forehead to make sure it was still in place. Satisfied with the look of it, she moves her bangs back and tries to smooth down her flyaways the best she can. Sighing, she grabs a paper towel from the dispenser and starts to wipe off her red lipstick, not feeling like staying at the dance any longer now that her mood was killed. She would have to find another way home, though. Maybe Elena would still be around if she wasn’t mad at her also.

After a few more moments alone in the bathroom, Cori heads back into the gym to collect her bag and steps out into the deserted hallway to dial Elena’s number. Unfortunately, after it rings a few times it goes to voicemail. Cori decides to leave a message, “Hey, Elena. Caroline and I had a littel argument and her and Bonnie left. If you’re still at the dance would you be able to give me a ride home? If not it’s no big deal, but I just thought I’d call and see. Talk to you later. Bye.” Cori exhales, hanging up the phone and aimlessly scrolling through her contacts to see if anyone else would be able to give her a ride. Just as she was about to dial her dad and ask him to come get her, she feels the presence of someone coming to stand in front of her. Cori looks up, sighing at the sight of Damon.

“Need a ride?” He smirks at her. He looked slightly more dishelved than he had when they were dancing but Cori doesn’t dwell on that. She did indeed need a ride but she wasn’t sure if that was a good idea after the altercation she had with Caroline over a dance.

She tucks a stray curl behind her ear, “I’m gonna call my dad, see if he’ll come get me.” she holds her phone up.

Damon waves a hand, “Come on, don’t make your old man come get you. I was just heading out, anyway. Let me take you home.”

Cori is faced with a decision she didn’t really want to make. On one hand, she had just been told explicitly by Caroline that her being around Damon upset her and accepting a ride soon after that would not translate well. On the other hand, Caroline had left her here and told her to get another ride home. This was another ride home. What were the chances of Caroline even finding out?...Pretty high considering what a big mouth this town had. But Cori was desperate, tired, and just wanted to go home to bed. “Okay,” she nods at Damon, tucking her phone into her bag, “thanks.”

He leads her out to the spot where his car is parked. She’s slightly impressed by his blue camaro but not exactly surprised, “Nice car,” she remarks as they both get inside.

“I know,” Damon says as he starts it up and revs the engine, smirking over at her, “It’s a babe magnet.”

She rolls her eyes at him, “I always thought that guys who have loud cars like this are compensating for something.” She looks dead in his eyes, “You know….for the size of something.”

Damon scoffs, putting the car in gear, “Trust me, sweetheart, I don’t have anything to make up for.” She directs her gaze out the passenger side window to hopefully hide her blush. She directs him on which way to go as they pull out of the parking lot and there’s comfortable silence before he speaks again, “Blondie and Bon-Bon ditch you?” He asks.

Cori sighs, smoothing her hands over the skirt of her dress, “Yeah, uh, I think they went to The Grill.” She shrugs.

“Why didn’t you go with them?” He glances at her out of his peripheral.

She chews on her bottom lip, “Caroline didn’t want me to.” Damon frowns but doesn’t verbally pry, although his curious silence is enough for Cori to open up, “She was pretty upset about me dancing with you. She thought I was doing it to upset her on purpose.”

“Were you?”

Cori whips her head around to look at him, her eyes narrowing, “No, I wasn’t!” She snaps, “God, does everyone think I’m some bitch all of a sudden? I would never do that.”

Damon holds up one hand in defense, “I was just asking.” He says, gripping the steering wheel with both hands again, “You don’t seem like the type to do something like that.”

Cori scoffs, holding her hands in her lap while she starts picking at her cuticles, “Try telling that to Caroline. Apparently she doesn’t know me as well as she thought she did.” Her tone is somber and Damon glances at her again at how hurt she sounds.

“Caroline seems like the jealous type. I’m sure she’ll cool down soon. What we had wasn’t serious.” He tries assuring her but it doesn’t seem to have worked.

“I just don’t get why she would be threatened by me dancing with you one time,” She sighs, “I mean, look at me and look at Caroline. If, for some messed up reason, we were in competition against each other I wouldn’t stand a chance.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Damon snorts, taking a right turn in her direction.

She starts waving her hands around like the right words will suddenly appear in front of them so she doesn’t have to explain it, “She has it all. She’s smart, pretty, charismatic…she’s just like my sister, honestly.” Why was she talking to him about this? He didn’t care. It was stupid, petty teenage drama. He was just trying to be nice by giving her a ride home and she was oversharing big-time.

Damon surprises her by what he says next, “You can’t always compare yourself to other people. You’ll never be Caroline and you’ll never be your sister. But you have to be…content with that.” He explains. Cori stares at his profile as he talks, “The world already has a lot of Caroline’s, they don’t need you to be another.” He takes a deep breath and continues, “A lot of people in my life have tried to compare me to Stefan. They wonder why I’m not more like him. Why am I not as nice as him? How come my brother can be so good and I can be so unlikable?” Cori redirects her gaze for a moment, feeling like she was staring too far into his soul, “And, I’m not saying that kind of stuff doesn’t get to me anymore, it does sometimes.” He pauses and she thinks he might be done but, after a moment, he goes on, “We were both in love with the same girl at one point, Katherine,” Cori frowned at the name. She thought Elena had mentioned Stefan’s ex-girlfriend before but she didn’t know Damon had loved her as well, “I couldn’t understand why I wasn’t enough, why she had to keep Stefan around. Sometimes I think I made myself so opposite of Stefan to keep everyone from expecting me to be like him.”

He had no idea what it was about the girl sitting next to him that made him want to open up with her. This was stuff he hadn’t told anyone before and he had to fight the instinct to kill her instantly for making him confide in her.

Cori ponders what Damon had told her. She felt a sense of…pride in the fact that he had been so open and a deep sense of understanding for the things he has felt throughout her life, “Careful, Damon,” She says as he comes to a slow stop in front of her house, “I might just figure you out.”

He smiles at her, that familiar mischievous tone behind his grin, “Not a chance, kid.” She grabs her bag and places her hand on the door handle.

“Thanks for the ride,” She says, pushing the door open. He simply nods at her in response, “I’ll see you around.” Cori steps out of his car and shuts the door behind her, jogging lightly up to her porch. Damon stays and watches her get to the front door and collect her key from her bag.

As she successfully unlocks the front door, she turns and smiles at him over her shoulder, waving her fingers at him in farewell. Damon feels his chest tighten as he waves bag, a strange feeling warming him from the inside but it quickly vanishes as she slips inside and closes the door behind her. He shakes it off and puts his car into gear, speeding away from the house and the girl inside of it.

#damon salvatore x ofc #damon salvatore #damon salvatore x female reader #damon salvatore x reader #elena gilbert #stefan salvatore #bonnie bennett #caroline forbes #tvd fanfiction #tvd universe #the vampire diaries #tvdu

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