#so soft and intimate like they're showing us why she can't be played live. this is not for a stadium. this is for You.

[prettyinpunk]

oh abso XX is out? no way...

[oftenderweapons]

Dirty ABCs | Jungkook and Candy

Let’s celebrate birthday boy with early NSFW alphabet!!! LET’S GOOOOO

Pairing: Jungkook x reader/OC (Candy)

Wordcount: 2.1k

Genre: headcanons

Rating: 18+. Minors, do not interact.

Here’s my masterlist, enjoy!

Trigger warnings: switch!jk, switch!candy, swearing. Unprotected sex (penetrative and oral — REMEMBER TO USE PROTECTION AND GET CHECKED REGULARLY), double penetration, quickies, creampie, cockwarming, cum eating. Marking, biting, scratching. Masturbation, boobjobs. Mention of mommy kink. Public foreplay, semi-public sex, exhibitionism. Degradation, praise kink, dirty talking, edging, sensory deprivation, overstimulation, multiple orgasms. Predator/Prey dynamics. Choking. Bondage. Toys (vibrators, cockrings, sex swing… 👀). Mild torture (?). Platonic spanks.

Beta read by my better half, @joheunsaram

Aftercare: Jungkook likes cuddles and pillow talk after sex. He’s very traditional about it. He enjoys how vulnerable he feels and how tender Candy is towards him. He really enjoys the softness of it all, and most importantly being babied. He wants tiddies and a nap. Candy is all about spoiling her boyfriend after he’s burnt out and satisfied. She loves how pliant and open he feels afterwards, how easy it is to connect with him and just let him vent about his worries.

Body part: Another tiddie man. He just loves how soft and relaxing it feels to rest his head on Candy’s breasts. He also loves her hair and how good it always smells. He lives to nuzzle into her neck and breathe her in. Candy loves Jungkook’s back. It’s the sexiest thing ever and she likes watching his back muscles flex when he’s fucking her. She also loves his waist, so dainty and feline. And of course his eyes. She could stare into his loving dark irises for hours. They’re so expressive.

Cum: Inside. Jungkook always wants inside. Her mouth is a close second, but if given the chance he wants to sink deep into her and bathe in the scent of her while sheathed in her warmth. It feels natural and romantic and loving. There’s no other place he would want to be other than inside her, all the time. Candy is okay with anything he wants. Watching his peaceful, serene expression after he’s fucked her hard and has found his orgasm inside her is ultimately one of the reasons why she loves having sex with Jungkook.

Dirty secret: Jungkook had been secretly nursing a mommy kink for a while. It did pop up once during one of his and Candy's little encounters, but it's not something he feels ready to face. He is so ashamed of it. Candy is really into Jungkook being her whiny, subby, precious good boy. She only wants to spoil him rotten all the time. However she can't stop thinking about all the girls out there willing to give up a lung to have a one night stand with him. Sometimes she just wishes she could dominate him in public. Tie him up, ride him raw till he's dry.

Experience: Jungkook has had only one partner, with whom the sex felt pretty awful. He didn't really think he was into it or could go that wild before he and Candy started sleeping together. Candy is fairly experienced. She has had three or four short term relationships. Maybe a couple flings.

Favourite position: Jungkook can't pick just one. Well, actually yes: missionary, but with Candy's legs pressed together and thrown over his shoulder but also spread apart, her knees pressed to her shoulders. Candy really likes it when he picks her up and fucks her against the wall, or when he gets really creative. That usually entails lots of laughing and joking and communicating.

Goofy: maybe. It depends. If they're making love, then I do see Jungkook getting emotional and Candy brightening the mood with cute jokes and compliments. They do tend to be goofy when they're together, but usually not during sex. It's either a very emotionally raw moment or vicious fucking.

Hair: Jungkook shaves. He's a neat freak and shaves. He does so religiously. Candy is not that consistent, sometimes she shaves, sometimes she trims. Depends on the mood.

Intimacy: it's very demure but it's there. You wouldn't notice it because the moment Jungkook enters beast mode, it's pretty much degradation and overstimulation all over the place. But it's there too! It's in the mere fact that he trusts her enough to forget how to be civil and decent and just unleashes himself all over her. For the first ten times or so it's shy and attempted, he tiptoes around the very edge of control, but once she tells him she loves him, he goes all out and never stops. He explores and pleases. That's his nature. Candy is the one that grants intimacy the most. He knows he can go wild because she's his anchor, keeping things loving and gentle and tender even through the storm. Now, once Jungkook subs though… intimacy galore. Little touches and small kisses and endless tight hugs. Her first goal is to make him feel safe. And that happens through intimacy.

Jack off: These two? Really? No, you didn't understand. If Jungkook has even a remote chance of cumming inside her, there's no way he's masturbating. He will 300% ignore his instincts until he can have her. And it's pretty difficult for Candy not to be in the mood — or not to get into the mood, if need be. She's also not one for masturbating. She does it only when he's not available, be it because he's abroad or he's too busy. But he's always her first choice. Generally speaking it might happen that he's not in the mood and she decides to take a quick shower and deal with it herself, but usually he's joining her after a couple minutes, his mind changed, a bunny smile on his face as he winks and hops in.

Kink: First and foremost, cockwarming. Creampies shortly after. Candy has a thing for marking him, especially scratches down his muscular upper back. Their kinks depend on who's domming: if it's Jungkook, there's plenty of degradation and high chances of predator/prey dynamics. He gets very horny if Candy plays hard to catch, and he discovers it accidentally, after Candy stole the last serving of his favourite snack. Useless to say, the snack was forgotten and they fucked on the floor. Candy likes choking (receiving) and pretty much anything Jungkook is willing to try. She can't wait to try double penetration with him, she's just waiting for him to open up about the topic. When domming, she's into sensory deprivation, bondage, praise kink and edging, especially when boobjobs are involved, since JK is particularly sensitive about the topic. As long as she has him whining and begging below her, she's ready to try anything.

Location: Well, the bedroom is the place of choice for most occasions. Not always though. The shower is a strong opponent. If they do get naughty outside of their home, it's usually in quite private places too. Hotel rooms. Club or restaurant bathrooms. Foreplay in the lift and on the dance floor — mostly Candy rubbing herself all over Jungkook. Well, they did get nasty in a cave once, but that's another story.

Motivation: as I said, playing catch with Jungkook is always a good way to get him in the mood. He's extremely weak for breasts, so anything regarding those is a hot topic too. Candy often wears loose/low neck shirts and leans over, offering him a glimpse of her lack of bra. Low neckline and no bra usually means "please, fuck me across the living room, thank you" in Candy language. While for Candy, watching Jungkook work out or just get sweaty and flirty is a total panty snatcher. You'll find her bent over, ass up, ready for the take.

No: Jungkook doesn't like receiving degradation. Memories of his ex make him uncomfortable with that. Other than that, he strongly opposes to anything that involves hardcore domination. He can be a dom, but he's extremely sensitive about what he does and some acts are a bit too aggressive for his opinion. Candy hadn't tried anything unconventional before Jungkook, and so far all her past no's have turned into hard yes with Jungkook. She's still exploring her limits.

Oral: Jungkook? Hell yes. He likes receiving but he by far prefers giving, especially when Candy is domming or directing him. He could do that for hours, and his love for the act almost rivals that of our local kitty cat Yoongi. His true joy is being rewarded going for multiples with his head between Candy's thighs. Especially if he's cum inside her. Not too fast though, he needs some cockwarming first. Candy is a true fan of giving head. She especially likes doing so when Jungkook is in a subby and bratty mood. Listening to him getting vocal about his appreciation is always the greatest compliment to her, and also an excellent way to discipline him when he gets cocky.

Pace: Fast. Hard. That's all there is. If he's setting the pace, it's outright demonic, hitting at least 74bpm (it's Kiwi by Harry Styles in halftime). Yes, he can go slower, usually when he's in lover boy mode or even better, when he's trying to show Candy who's the boss. Slow, lazy rolls of his hips reaching unknown depths. If Candy's on top/domming it's all about it being intimate, calm, relaxing even. She wants Jungkook to explore a sensuality he is too rushed and forceful for. Through her slow and steady approach she helps him embrace a more feminine and spiritual sexuality that borders on the psychological and tantric.

Quickie: yes. Hard yes. He is the best with quickies. Just get it over with so they're both relieved and they can chat about their day while he's still inside her. There's not much to say. Just yes.

Risk: they prefer avoiding it, however they're young and experimenting, therefore they do sometimes get a bit past the safety line. The biggest risk for them is doing anything where they could be spotted, therefore they're really subtle and overall not too explicit about anything happening in a semi-public context. Except, that one time while they were on holiday, of course. And that other time in which Candy almost jerked him off in a restaurant before blowing him in his car.

Stamina: Insane. Jungkook's stamina is more about endurance rather than control. He can make Candy cum five or six times while he cums twice and is more than glad. He can go for two consecutive rounds without breaking a sweat. For himself he's usually more than happy with a round of foreplay and one of fucking, but if he's determined enough, he can last one more. He usually doesn't push himself that far though, he does when he's been deprived for long enough.

Toy: Although toys aren't usually a part of their sex life, they do use them every now and then. Vibrators, vibrating cockrings, oh! And their sex swing, of course. That's what they use the most, yes.

Unfair: If Jungkook is in hard dom mode, he is very unfair, plenty of teasing and taunting matched with mockery and degradation. He can keep Candy on her toes for a full hour, giving her small reprieve every here and there. Candy is also equally torturous: if she's domming, she's not done edging him until he's whining, sobbing, begging and possibly crying.

Volume: Normally, Candy is very quiet however, Jungkook always goes the extra mile to make her moan and whine, especially if he's eating her out. Jungkook can be especially eloquent with his sounds: grunting and groaning are typically for his dommier side, while whining and whimpering are usually for his subby one. Moaning is all over the place. Consider also a good amount of murmuring and mumbling some dirty talking. Not too much though.

Wild card: Jungkook likes his hair being combed during aftercare. Candy always relaxes while he speaks loving words to make up for the degradation and mockery. She could fall asleep while combing his hair, she's just that tired and comfortable. Also! When he installed the sex swing in their room, he decided it was a good idea to have permanent hooks on the ceiling, mask them with fake plants. Crackhead.

X-Ray: Jungkook has a nice cock. Not too long, not too thick but it has an upward curve that makes stuff interesting. He's probably around six or seven inches. Candy has objectively nice breasts, full, round, truly well structured. And she has a nice ass too, Jungkook likes squeezing it when she throws her leg on top of him during cuddles. He also spanks it a few tens of times a day — not in the sexual way tho, but more in that encouragement/comradery way he has learnt with the guys.

Yearning: Jungkook can go without sex for a long time. I'm talking about a month and more. It's not a priority for him, except right after he and Candy sleep together for the first time, when he needed to get rid of the high. With him, everything is very inconsistent: one week you're having sex every day, and the following one, he's just all about the cuddles and fluff. Candy is up for anything, however she prefers having sex at least once or twice a week. Both feel safe to initiate without fearing being denied. For them, arousal is very easily built through playing and bantering.

Zzz: both take a while to fall asleep after sex. Plenty of time for pillow talking and cleaning up, though they prefer doing so very pragmatically. Any time spent apart during aftercare is a waste to both of them: they just want to talk things out, relax, bask in each other's warm presence.

[imagines-by-a-typical-fangirl]

The Perfect Bad Boy (Pt. 07 of 18)

Pairing: Billy Hargrove X Reader

Word count: 2.9K

Summary: Working as a lifeguard in the Hawkins Community Pool, you try to fit in after moving from New York. Things were going pretty well when you notice you've been under someone's stare. Billy Hargrove, Hawkins' bad boy, has been staring at you since day one. You never intended to have anything to do with him, judging by the reputation he has. But Billy won't leave you alone, determined to show you his feelings are different this time...

As if your heart flooding you with confusing feelings wasn't enough, there are weird, strange animals lurking in the woods... But those have to be just part of the wild live of the woods surrounding Hawkins... Right?

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{Stranger Things Masterlist}

×

Nothing Else Matters

Another big decision.

Why is this day filled with the need to make big decisions?

“Why do you need to know that?” You mumble, a shiver rolling down your spine when you feel his lips brushing on your ear.

“Because I don't want you to break my little heart, princess.”

Damn it. “Billy, stop calling me that,” you beg, fixing your hair around your neck so it'll be a barrier between you and Billy. The damn nickname makes your stomach burn, and it has an effect on your head...

“Aren't you going to answer me?” You sigh when he messes with your hair, pulling it to the side and exposing your neck to him again.

“Pay attention to the movie.” Muttering, you feel as his lips brush on the soft skin of your neck.

“Just because you're the one asking.” He says, and you feel your body involuntary sinking into his embrace.

Billy is silent for the rest of the movie, thankfully, but his arm feels like iron, keeping you close.

The night falls and you make a pause on what will be a movie night when the pizza gets here. You made everyone chip in since you weren't planning on buying pizza for another six people. It's almost ten when everyone leaves, and you ask Billy to take you home. It was a good day, and you're happy you got to see Billy's house. And about all the rest.

As he drives, you smell the scent of his cologne on you, and you smile to yourself. “So... Did you enjoy it?”

“What?”

“Spending the day with me?” He stops by your place, and you step out of the car biting your lip. You wait for Billy to walk around the car before you start making the way over to the front door.

“I did.” You don't want to cover that up. You want Billy to know you like being around him. “I had fun. With you and the kids.” As you speak, you hear a low laugh coming from inside. “What's that?”

Gesturing for him to stay quiet, you unlock the front door, noticing how the lights are off, and the colorful ones coming from the TV. Slowly, you peak at the living room, smiling to see Diane is with someone, hugging, watching something on the TV. You don't want to ruin it, so you go back to the front door.

“My aunt is with someone. I need you to wait for me here, ok?”

He looks a little confused. “Yes, but why?”

“Just wait. Quietly.” You storm back inside when he nods, tiptoeing upstairs.

You know they can hear the footsteps down there, so you have to move fast. You grab your toothbrush and some clothes, throwing them on the first bag you find before running back down. “(Y/N)?” You hear her calling me when you reach the bottom of the stairs.

“I'm just going out again,” you say, running to the front door.

“Hey, hey!” She comes running, meeting you when you open the door. “You can... You can stay. Robert is just... Where are you going? It's late.”

It's so cute to see her like that, blushing. “Aunt, I'll...” Think fast. “I'll sleep at Billy's.” You gesture at him, standing behind you. He waves at Diane.

“Are you sure?”

“Yup. Now get back there!” You whisper-yell, stepping backwards, and closing the door. “Uhm...” You finally turn to face Billy, who's still pretty confused. “Sorry, I... Just take me to Monica's, I'll sleep there.”

“You told your aunt you'd sleep at my place. So that's where you'll be.” He raises an eyebrow, gesturing for you to head back to his car.

“Billy, I–”

“You'll sleep in Max's room. So chill.” He gives you that smirk again, and you roll your eyes.

You're soon back at his place, and he tells you to make yourself at home, so you take a shower in his bathroom. You brought leggings to sleep in, but you forgot to take a shirt. Sighing, you put the one you were wearing before, leaving the bathroom, finding Billy seated on his bed.

This is way too intimate. You're in his bedroom, showering on his bathroom, drying yourself with his towels... You weren't ready for this... But it's about to get more weird.

“Billy.” He looks up at you. “Do you... Do you have any shirts I can wear? I forgot to grab one... Or maybe see if Max has anything?” C'mon, you know you shouldn't do this, but the very thought of wearing one of Billy's shirts is just too strong.

There's a smile on his lips as he searches on his wardrobe. He hands you a dark red shirt, and you go back into the bathroom just to change. When you come out again, you feel Billy's intense stare. This is craziness. You shouldn't be here.

“You look beautiful.” He says, coming to stand before you. “Max has one of those mattresses she uses for camping. It's lied on the floor for you and you should take a blanket. The nights can get a little cold even in summer.”

“Yeah, I noticed...” You move away, to the door. You don't want to sleep, not yet. “Are you going to sleep now? Or we could watch some TV...” Biting your lip, you watch as he starts moving towards you, so you go to the living room, sitting on the couch.

Billy turns the TV on, in some random talk show, and turns the lights off. “Do you mind?” You shake your head no and he comes to sit by your side. “Why did you storm out of your house like that?”

“It's kind of a long story.”

“Tell me everything about it.”

“Uhm... Diane is more of a mother to me than my real mother, Laura. I have a very complicated relationship with my parents since forever so...” You use the light coming from the TV to analyze his face, to see if you're boring him already. But Billy seems to be curious, intense eyes focused on you. “Her husband died years ago and she has never been in a relationship after that. Diane... When she loves, she loves deeply and I remember how happy she was. I want her to be that happy again. She has always been there for me since I can remember. She's my anchor when things fall apart. She's the reason why I'm here, you know. When I started looking for a place to move to, she told me about Hawkins. Being born and raised here, she only moved to Indianapolis because her husband lived there. My plan is to live with her there during the week, when the classes are back, and come here for the weekend.”

“You really plan to live here?”

“Yes... You?” You move your body towards him, pulling one of your legs up, folding in under you. Billy looks so handsome, even in the dim light. You're distracted for a bit when Max comes from her room and goes to the kitchen.

“I'm... Reconsidering.” He smiles.

“Why?” Because of you? No, it can't be. Billy would never take this big of a decision because of you.

“What's the matter between you and your parents?”

Of course he won't answer. “They're both lawyers, as is my brother, so they wanted me to follow up. But since I can remember I knew I didn't want to do that... So it was always a nightmare.” Putting some of the hair behind your ear, you take a deep breath. “I had to study like crazy to keep my grades next to perfect because whenever I got a B it was like the end of the world. And the talk about my career was constant since I got into elementary school. There was yelling, cursing...” Talking about it makes you feel like a kid again, when you were too young to be forced to talk about University. “Maybe I should've played along to avoid the arguing, but I always wanted to stand my ground. And to them, to both of them, there was no other option, I had to become a lawyer and as I grew old, the humiliation started. You're not part of the family. You're nothing like your brother, he cares about us. We should've given you away, to a mediocre family so you could fit in. Why can't you be like your brother? You're a failure.”

“It got so much worse when I got into New York University...” You continue, looking down at your hands. “They told me I'd never do it. That Biomedicine is way too complicated and, let's face it, if I was smart enough, I'd pick Law. So in the end, I wasn't coursing Law because I'm dumb. And my brother is such an asshole. He feels so proud that our parents love and basically worship him as the perfect child... I just...”

“Hey...” Billy lifts your face, his index finger on your chin. “You're not dumb. You're very brave for standing up for yourself like that.”

“So that's why I'm here.” Breathing out, you move closer to him because you suddenly feel so comfortable here... Like you can trust him, completely. “I wanted somewhere new, to have a fresh start and this place is just perfect. It's so beautiful... I can actually picture having kids here and raising them running around the town like the kids I see.”

His fingers start moving, rubbing your cheek with his thumb. “I'm sorry you had to go through that in your life. I... My father was an asshole too. He... Hit me. Made my life a nightmare.” Billy's face changes, as the memories hit him like a train. “I'm only here because of Max's mother. Susan divorced Neil and bought this house so Max would have a place to live since she didn't want to leave Hawkins. And when she doesn't want to do something, nothing in the world changes her mind.” You feel relieved when a small smile comes to his lips. “That's why I'm still here. To look after Max and because the University of Indianapolis was the only one that accepted me.”

“Well, nothing matters now, right? We're both here now... Not paying attention to whatever is going on there.” You gesture at the TV.

“Nothing outside these walls matters.” He pulls you close and you move, your foreheads touching.

“Billy, please...” You beg, because you don't think you can hold back if he kisses you. You know you'll surrender. “Not yet... If... If you like me, please... Don't kiss me...”

You're scared. Scared he'll be mad at you, that he'll get tired and push you away.

But when you open your eyes, you see a smile on his lips. “I won't kiss you until you want me to.”

“Thanks,” you whisper, wrapping your arms around his neck, pulling him close. Your heart starts beating even faster, if it's even possible, when you feel his strong arms embracing you. You never hugged Billy, and honestly, you have no idea how you could not have done it before. It feels right. So damn right.

You want him. You were careful with your heart, but he did it. He's making you fall for him.

When you pull away, he's smiling. Not the sassy smirk, but a true, bright smile. As if he just found a treasure, something valuable. “Let's stay here for a while...” He says. “Your aunt is cuddling with that Robert guy, we should do the same.”

Biting your lip, you sigh. You don't want to go to sleep now. You rather be with Billy for a while longer. “Alright.”

“Come here.” You lay your head on his chest, as you move to watch TV. You're not really paying attention, listening to his heartbeat.

• • •

A loud noise wakes you up. With a low groan, you pull the light sheet over your head to protect your eyes from the sun coming through the window. A soft, fresh scent makes you smile. You know this scent, it's familiar, comforting. “Watch out, Max!” Billy's low voice reaches you and you open your eyes, removing the sheet and realizing you're not home. That this is Billy's scent and this is Billy's bed. So you get up abruptly, looking around for a while, a hand on your forehead, before going to the kitchen, where you find him and his sister.

“Hey, I...” You gesture at where you came from. “Was that your bed?”

“Yes, princess. But don't worry, I slept on the couch.” He comes to stand before you, too close, handing you a mug with coffee.

“I will leave you guys alone,” Max mutters, leaving the kitchen.

“Thanks,” you tell Billy, taking a sip. “Sorry to take your bed.”

“Apology not accepted.” He gestures at the table. “Let's have breakfast. I made you toasts.”

“I like the toasts.” You sit beside him, trying not to be too happy about the fact that you're still here, having breakfast with Billy.

You chat a little, laugh a little, and accidentally spill your coffee on the table, which gets you a funny comment about him making you nervous. Of course he makes you nervous, how could he not? Hella good looking guy, calling you ‘princess’ and treating you with such attention, unlike anyone else before... Of course you're nervous.

You take your time showering, and you put his shirt on your bag, hoping he won't notice. Then you wait for him as he showers, watching TV, seated on the bench press.

“(Y/N). You know what time is it?”

“No. But we should get going.” Shrugging your shoulders, you stand up.

“We're late.”

“How late?”

“Late as in the pool is opening right now.” He says as if it's nothing.

“We gotta get going then.” It's unbelievable how he doesn't seem bothered by it, so you take his hand, pulling him out. “We still have to stop by my place to get the swimsuit, Billy. Let's go!”

He seems amused by your desperation, so you roll your eyes. You can barely talk to your aunt, since you're in a rush, just grabbing the uniform and heading back to the car.

It's so hot already. “Billy, can you stop by that store? I need something to drink.”

“Weren't you desperate to get to your job?” He smirks, giving you a glance.

“We're already late anyway. It'll only take a second.” When he stops the car you jump out, being in and out of the store in record time.

“Damn, you're fast.”

“Drive, Billy.” Rolling your eyes, you open the can, taking a sip.

Two minutes later he's parking on the reserved place for the lifeguards. You see as the heads turn at the sight of his car. Girls smiling, gossiping, telling her friends to check out who just got here. Taking a deep breath, you step out of the car, trying really hard not to notice how people stare. You haven't had time to consider what would mean showing up here with Billy. You should be used to having eyes on you since you're still the new girl, but this is for a whole different reason now. You're around Billy for quite a while now, and people are starting to count, to notice he still didn't ditch you.

Taking another sip of the soda, you wait for Billy to join you before start walking towards the entrance.

“Give me a sip.” He asks, taking your mind away from all the glances you're getting.

“Let's get inside. I'll get you a glass.”

“Why?”

“Uhm... Because I'm drinking straight from the can... With my mouth. I just thought...” Shrugging your shoulders, you watch as he takes the can from your hand, stopping by the entrance. You guess you're not worried that you're late anymore. You're already here anyway.

“Wait. Let's rewind a little.” Billy looks down at you, apparently ignoring how people linger around, walking slower when they're close, trying to overhear something. He doesn't seem to care. “You went to my place–”

“Keep your voice down, Billy. Please.” You warn him, and he seems to take this as a chance to step closer. So you back up, but your back hits the way. Why does he do that? Why does he pretends you're alone when you're surrounded by people?

“You went to my place, showered on my bathroom, used my soap, slept on my bed...” He squints his eyes a little, taking a deep breath. “And you're using my cologne.”

Damn it. You were supposed to keep a distance today because you put some of his cologne when he was showering. “Busted,” you mumble, feeling your cheeks burning.

“And... Considering the fact that I want to kiss you, why would I have any problems with drinking from your can?” When he's done speaking, he takes long sips from the soda.

“Why do I feel like you enjoy taking every chance you have to tease me?” You whisper, crossing your arms in an attempt to create some distance between your bodies.

“Because I can't stay away from you.” He hands you the can back. “And I know you don't want to stay away from me either, so yes, I'll take every chance I'll get to show you I want something different this time. I would never allow any girls to my place, much less introduce them to Max. That's like a point of no return because if I push you away, I'll never hear the end of it.”

Your eyes are fixed on his, and as much as you try, you can't look away. “Let's get in, please. People are staring.”

“Let them stare, I couldn't care less.” Billy bends down a little, closing the final distance between you and placing a kiss on your cheek. “I meant what I said last night. I won't kiss you until you ask me to.” That said, he steps back, gesturing for you to move.

Taking a deep breath, you enter the pool, drinking what's left of the soda. You make your way straight to the locker room, changing and applying the sunblock before shoving everything in your locker.

“Hey.” You're about to go out when someone calls. Turning on your heels, you see that girl Jennifer with her friend. “(Y/N), right?”

“Yes. Do you need anything?”

“No. We're just curious.” They come closer, arms crossed. “We couldn't help but notice Billy is still hanging out with you and we need to know what you're doing so right.” The girl says, and Jennifer nods.

“What do you mean?”

“C'mon, we're not stiffs. What's your trick?” Jennifer flashes you a dirty smile, and you can't wait to get the hell out of here. “What do you do that he likes so much?”

“Nothing. I don't do anything.” You simply say, shrugging your shoulders.

“Nothing? Like... How the hell–”

“Yup. Nothing.” Waving at them, you decide not to let them say anything else, leaving the locker. Billy comes out of the boy's locker at the same time you do, a curious expression on his face. “Did you... Did you hear that?”

“Couldn't help it.” He admits. “Are you ok?”

As you nod, the girls come out, walking away. “Don't worry about me. I can deal with some mean girls if I have to. And they're just jealous that it's my turn with you.” That's how they speak of it. Every girl has her turn with Billy, and when it's over, they have no choice but to back off and watch as he picks someone else.

“Yeah. But it's the last swift.” He steps closer, a hand caressing your cheek. “You're the last one.”

“Don't say stuff like that, Billy.”

“Alright, alright.” Monica's voice startles you, and you bite your lip because you're just a little mad she broke the moment. “You two are late and I've been the only one watching three pools. Get to your posts.”

Billy rolls his eyes, winking at you as he walks away.

“Mind to tell me what happened? I saw him kissing you.” Monica speaks low as you make your way to the chairs.

“On the cheek, Mon.”

“I don't care, I know something is going on.”

Yeah, there's a lot going on. “We need to talk, Mon. I'm losing my damn mind.” You say with a smile.

“You're falling for him, aren't you?”

“I really think so.”

×

@chloe-skywalker @dpaccione @tilesandtokens @dreamin-of-dacre @funeral-7

[r3b3lgrrrrrrrl]

A LunaTic and her Gunn (Part 75)

"Pitts✈LA✈Philly"

@creatureofthen1ght-v3

@lovemythsworld

@crystalbaby12

📷 manip cred @southsidequeenie

Colson wakes up groggy on the back of The Bus. Reaching for Luna with his eyes still closed, he's irritated when he remembers she's not there. Pulling his phone out, he looks to see if she called or anything. Nothing.

"She's always off somewhere...." He sighs, thinking to himself. Appreciating that Luna's independent but also feeling a bit lost himself when she's gone. Finding her was like growing an extra limb. When she's not near, his body has a phantom ache for her. "Lemme hit her up." He decides.

Shooting her a quick Snap, he sees his laptop sticking out of one of his bags. He pulls it out and digs through his red LV travel bag. Finding the things he wants, he settles back onto the bed.

Popping the flashdrive in that Luna gifted him for his birthday, he opens the file.

Sliding his hand down his pants, he starts stroking his cock in anticipation. Colson jerks off to himself fucking Luna for the first time. Watching himself with her. How they move and talk with each other. Her dominance and submissiveness, driving Colson to the brink. Throwing himself back, he explodes when his mind wanders to her warm mouth sucking his dick the morning she had given it to him to watch.

"God Damn, Loons..." He thinks of his future wife as he chuckles to himself.

Still sexually pleased by her. Even 3K miles apart.

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

Landing at LAX there's an unseasonable chill to the air. Luna pulls on a soft gray sweater. Knocking her bandana off. Shoving it into her bag, She pulls out a pair of sunglass.

Hopping an uber to Frannie's, she notices a Snap from Colson. He looks miserable.

"What an Asshole..." She laughs to herself. Snapping him back with sass and love.

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

"OH MY GLOB! OH MY GLOB! OH MY GLOB!! OH MY GLOB!!!! Paris burts out, squeezing Luna.

Luna having told her and Frannie about her engagement. P let's her go, wanting to pop a bottle, asking Frannie if she has champagne. Luna and Frannie laugh as they hug and Frannie gives P directions. Still holding tightly onto Luna. Her bestfriend's a bit cynical and rightfully so, considering her own current divorce.

"I'm so happy for you!" Frannie gushes to Luna.

Knowing her Soul Sister all too well, Luna pulls out of the hug. She winces a bit, forgetting to take any pain meds for her gunshot wound.

"What was..." Frannie goes to ask.

Luna interjects. "Buuuutttt....??" She asks with eyebrows raised.

"But don't make the same mistake I did. I don't care how much you love him. Get a prenup. At least for your family's history." Frannie sighs, advising from knowledge.

Luna pulls her back into their hug. Squeezing Frannie tight. She had half expected this.

"I hear you, Frans." She says softly in her ear.

Both girls squeeze each other. Over a decade of love, life, pain and understanding passing through them. The pop of the champagne bottle startles them as they break apart, laughing.

"LOONS IS IN LOOOOOVE AND GETTING MARRIED!!!!" P shouts, handing glasses off.

The three bestfriends cheers and laugh together. Luna asking to keep it kinda low key until she tells her grandmother and Colson his daughter. Her two friends nodding.

The girls have lunch. Talking and sharing champagne. Admiring the sweetness of her ring. Luna telling them the plan to get married in TownHall before the first weekend in August. Inviting them to both the intimate affair and the weekend rager. Frannie and Paris laugh at Luna's usual unconventional way of doing things. Excited about the festivities. They share a joint before Luna has to go. She has a performance with Ashley tonight.

The three bestfriends hug when Luna's uber arrives. Congratulating her again. Giving her Love and Kisses with their See Ya Soons.

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

"Spill it." Paris says to Frannie once they've waved Luna GoodBye. "It's just quick. We seen 'em together, what? Once? And we were tripping balls. Everything's glorious when you're tripping balls." Paris throws her arm around Frannie's shoulder as they walk inside. "Then let's hang out with em. AND." She snaps the fingers of her free hand. "We gotta start planning her birthday party soon. Soooo... We're gonna need to talk to him anyway." P makes very valid points with her grin. Heading inside Paris can't help but ooze for her friend. She loves Luna and she love Love. Pulling up an old picture of them, P Congraulats one of her bestfriends on the sly. Or so she thinks.

"The peanut butter to my jelly. The Rock to my Roll. I love you and am over the moon!!!

💖🎉🎡🤘💫✨😍"

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

The Boys are in Philadelphia staying in Rittenhouse Sq. Right in the heart of the city. Colson, Slim and Baze have friends who live off of Lombard. Ashleigh hangs back, glad to be rid of their madness.

Walking over Colson gets a Snap from Luna.

Laughing, he plucks a flower off a bush. Popping it behind his ear. Grinning as he Snaps her back.

"What up, Dawg!!"

They're greeted by their friend Tyree. Finding LaMar in the kitchen rolling up. Its Dark and Hell is Hot blares through the Philly condo. Cracking beers, slamming shots, they burn and catch up.

Soon heading to Cheerleaders, a stripclub/sports bar close by.

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

"You got something you wanna tell me?" Ashley blurts out to Luna.

"Well, Hello to you too, Pal." Luna responds laughing.

"Why's Paris BooLoven' you on Insta?" Ashley questions her.

"Seriously? What's it say?" Luna sighs.

"Nothing really but that she loves you and is Over the Moon" Ashley air quotes.

"Okay... Listen, I didn't call you because it literally happened last night and I wanted to tell you in person today..." Luna begins to explain.

"Okayy..." Her bestfriend peers at her.

Holding her phone in her hands so that Ashley can't see her fingers, Luna continues.

"Colson asked me to marry him last night." Luna tells her.

Stunned, Ashley says "Noooo..." With wide eyes. "What did you say?" She asks.

Luna shrugs before breaking into a grin. "I said Yeah."

Ashley squeals, grabbing for Luna's hand. Looking at the contraption on her left hand.

"What is this shit?" She asks bluntly.

Laughing, Luna explains how he forgot the ring but made her one out of his guitar string. And to shut the fuck up because she loves it.

"No... That's really... REEALLY You&Kells." She laughs, grinning.

Ashley pulls Luna in for a tight hug. Congratulating her bestfriend, telling her how happy she is for the couple. They link arms as they head to the stage to rehearse for tonight. Talking wedding plans along the way.

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

Cheerleaders is loud. Colson paying more attention to the Indians game than the girls.

Slim noticing the difference. Still his normal goofy, loud self, Colson interacts with the girls, talking and signing autographs but declines them on his lap.

"What the fuck is wrong with you?" Mar notices it also.

"He's getting maaaarried...." Baze teases Colson.

"YOOO!??" Ree flips around entering the conversation. "Tell me it's to that sweet piece of ass you did Bad Things wit!"

"Who???" Mar jumps back in.

Colson laughs, pulling a picture of Luna up on his phone. It's a simple sideshot of her.

"Damn, she got more tattoos than you do, Son!!" Mar exclaims.

"She looks like a fucking badass, Homie. How your lanky ass score that??" Ree busts Colson's balls.

"She knows what it is." Colson smirks.

Slim, Baze, Benny and Rook burst out laughing at him.

"Yo. LunaTic will fuck you up, Kells!" Rook calls him out.

Slim turns to their friends, explaining how Luna does NOT take anyone's shit. Including Kells. Joking that in the last two months that she's been around, he's seen her open more cans of whoop ass than Stone Cold Steve Austin could've ever ordered.

The Guys laugh hysterically at Slim's reference. Benny, Rook, Baze and Colson knowing it's true.

"Yo! So, you got a RIDA!? When we gonna meet Mrs. Homie?" Mar asks.

"She's in Cali right now performing but she'll be back before tomorrow night. Come to the show. We'll kick it after." Colson tells them.

Both men nod in agreeance. Wondering about this LunaTic who seems to have tamed such a Wild Boy.

They carry on drinking, laughing and teasing Colson.

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

"HOW YOU FEELING, WAZZMATAZZ?" Ashley asks, stalking around the stage.

She's the Headliner of the concert. Opening with Now or Never, Colors and Eastside. She nails a stripped down version of Closer before bringing Luna out.

"I SAID HOW YOU FEELING!??" She screams to their roars. "I did a song with my bestfriend. It's currently sitting at #1. And I'd like to think that it's because it's the truth." She continues, adjusting her earphone as she walks the stage. "All art is based on some sense of truth, and if our art is number one, it's because WE'RE NOT THE ONLY TWO PISSED OFF!!" She screams to the energetic crowd. "So I've got her with me tonight. The ONE, THE ONLY, THAT BROOKLYN FUCKING BIIITCH!!" Ashley screams introducing Luna to the venue's  explosion.

Luna comes out in a plain white tank and black skinnies.

"Did I hear people are pissed off?" Luna asks excitedly as she comes onto the stage. "FUCK right we are!!!!" She bellows to the audience's screaming agreement. "Let's show 'em how angry!!" She shouts looking at Ashley as the opening chords play.

Both girls begin to bounce with the melody, swinging their arms and legs wildly. Ashley blasts into the opening chorus as her band nails the chords. Fire exploding in the background.

🎶I🎶

🎶Keep a record🎶

🎶Of their wreckage🎶

🎶And their lies🎶

🎶We're starting to recognize🎶

🎶The weapon in our minds🎶

🎶They talk shit🎶

🎶But we won't take it 🎶

🎶This time🎶

🎶As I realize🎶

The band drops out as Luna comes in strong. Unyielding.

🎶I'm out for blood🎶

🎶And it won't be sweet🎶

Ashley's band picks back up as Luna sings. Bouncing and jumping around the stage, using her hands to express her points. Dipping low to touch fan's hands.

🎶Tired of having the rugs🎶

🎶Pulled from beneath our feet🎶

🎶Done trusting lies🎶

🎶Done trusting Men🎶

🎶Picking each other up🎶

🎶And putting ourselves🎶

🎶Back together again🎶

The masses chant with her. Growing louder as Luna calls out Society's standard of women. Luna dead panning certain lyrics.

The Girls cross paths, tossing their mics to each other as they hit separate corners of the stage.

🎶Come on Little Ladies🎶

🎶Give us a smile🎶

🎶No we ain't got nothing🎶

🎶To smile about🎶

Ashley and Luna rip through the lyrics as the lights pop and smoke billows. Belting together how they don't owe You a God Damn Thing.

Ashley kicks back in hard with the chorus. The stage explodes again with fire. The crowd venting along with the two bestfriends.

🎶I🎶

🎶Keep a record🎶

Ashley continues as her and Luna bounce and jump across the stage. Grinning and tossing each other satisfied looks as the crowd rages with them.

It's a volcanic experience as Ashley and Luna dance and sing across the stage with each other. Filled with passion and genuine resentment.

🎶I'm no sweet dream🎶

🎶But I'm a hell of a night🎶

Ashley taunts before Luna slides in.

🎶No I won't smile🎶

🎶But I'll slow you my teeth🎶

🎶And I might let you speak🎶

🎶If you just let us breathe🎶

Luna squats, bouncing up and down. Singing her lyrics. The Band dropping so Luna and the audience can scream together.

🎶We're tired and angry🎶

🎶Digging up The Hill🎶

🎶So scared🎶

🎶Is what you should be🎶

Luna and Ashley come face to face taunting the other to smile. Telling each other there's nothing to smile about. Fire igniting and lights blaring as they let loose about how they don't owe anyone a God Damn Thing.

Ashley singing about keeping a record of all wreckages and lies. Firing exploding as the two artists bop around the stage, screaming about injustice.

Playing and pushing off the other. They really are a force to be reckoned with. On and off stage.

The keytar comes on solely as Luna and Ashley hit MidStage together. The loud room singing with them claiming Luna's heart's desire.

🎶Women like me🎶

🎶Can be real nightmares🎶

🎶Completely aware🎶

🎶But I'd rather be🎶

🎶A real nightmare🎶

🎶Than die unaware🎶

🎶Yeah🎶

🎶Women like me🎶

🎶Can be real nightmares🎶

🎶Completely aware🎶

🎶But I'm glad to be🎶

🎶A real nightmare🎶

The Girls both kick their limbs out while changing the last lines. Luna dipping down in front of her.

🎶So, save us🎶

🎶Your fucking Prayyyyerss!!!🎶

Before slaying the chorus together. Bouncing, grinning, bopping and jumping as the floor ruptures on fire around them with crowd.

Watching them, the two bestfriends are magnetic. Knowing each other's range, limit and place. They perform together as if they were back in Luna's bedroom. Jumping off of props instead of beds. In hindsight it's a beautiful thing to see how far they've both come. Never losing their core.

Grinning at each other, they storm into the chorus with the crowd. Thriving off each other on stage. Tossing mics as they pass, dropping them to signify certain lyrics.

Finishing the chorus together, Ashley goes first as The Girls hit separate corners of the stage.

🎶I'm not sweet dream🎶

🎶But I'm a hell of a night🎶

Luna singing after her. Ending the song.

🎶No, we're no sweet dream🎶

🎶But we're a hell of a night🎶

Coming back together, the bestfriends laugh and thank the crowd before Luna heads off.

Luna FaceTiming Sean as Ashley closes out the show with a hitting performance of Without Me.

"Heeeyyy!" She grins into the screen.

Chuckling, he asks what she wants. Luna explains how she's at WazzMaTazz. Ultimately, asking if she can borrow his jet tonight to get back to Philly for Colson's show tomorrow.

"What's in it for me?" The business man asks.

Luna laughs at Sean, replying that he'll have the pleasure of not feeling her foot up his ass.

"Alright, alright... You little Brooklyn Bitch..." He agrees with a laugh. "When you need it?" He asks.

"Uhhh.. Gimme like 2-3hrs?" Luna asks.

Diddy agrees, telling her he'll text her the details. Thanking him graciously, Sean warns her to stay out of trouble. Shaking his head as she smirks that she'll try, they say GoodBye.

Hanging up Luna sees she has a Snap from Colson.

She opens it, thinking of how much she loves him.

Once Ashley's OffStage, they hang out with the other performers. Luna especially enjoying her conversations with Fletcher and Ellie Goulding. Luna being fans of theirs and vice versa.

Before long, Luna's saying her GoodByes. She's off to the hanger. Flying from CA to PA. Across the country for the second time in less than 24hrs.

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

The Adderall finally wearing off, Luna's feeling the weight of the day. She pops two 30s and sips on an Old Fashioned.

Sleeping for most of the 6hr flight. She arrives on the East Coast as the sun begins to rise. Luna has to look at her phone to figure out what day it is. Surprised that it's Tuesday.

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

Finally at the hotel, Luna takes a quick shower. Managing not to wake Colson until she wants to.

Crawling into bed with him, Colson's on his back. Luna kisses his cheek. Then his jaw. Down his neck to his collarbone.

He starts to stir as she lightly drags the tip of her tongue down his body. He doesn't have any clothes on. Luna kisses the top of his mound, his short pubes tickling her face.

Kissing his inner thigh, Colson reaches for her. Running his hands through her blonde hair. He calls out her name with a groan as she swirls her tongue around his hard cock's head.

Taking him in her mouth, Luna sucks Colson's dick, sliding and her gently twisting her wet hand along his base. Letting her free hand roam his body.

It being early in the morning and her suction firm and steady, Luna only needs to deep throat Colson a few times before he oozes into her mouth.

Both satisfied with her work, Luna swallows his load before washing her hands and climbing back into bed with him.

Laying on his chest, Colson strokes Luna's hair as he asks about CA. She gives him the details of her day. Him talking about how she'll meet Tyree and Lamar tonight.

They come up with the idea of flying Casie out to NY on Friday. He's thinking lunch with her, Patti and Emma. Telling them all together. Luna thinks it's a smart idea. They drift off together, cuddling.

Don knocks on their hotel room door around 11A. He doesn't bang anymore.

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

To be continued.....

[hhhellmouth]

But if you close your eyes, does it almost feel like nothing changed at all? (1/?)

Asra lost his parents too early in his life (even though it's always too early to lose your parents), he was a child, a little kid. And albeit I know Asra was a smart and capable boy, he still heavily relied emotionally on them. Like everyone does at that age.

So he finds himself alone, scared, and wondering what happened. Where are his parents? When are they coming back? Why did they leave? He knows his parents love him, and they would never abandon him. But that doesn't change the fact that he's alone, with no one to care for him, and nobody will come to save him.

He sleeps in every corner he can find, the beach, a little frequented alley, anywhere remotely safe, really. Alone and fending for himself for three years. So you can't tell me he didn't cry himself to sleep most of those nights when he did get any sleep. Remembering the voice of his mother, teaching him riddles, with a voice full of warmth and mirth and love. And his father showing him how he paints a tarot deck, the very same tarot deck he learned with, and everything was soft touches, gentle hands and laughter guiding him. And it's all gone.

He only has the Magician now, however he's not a parental figure at all. He's patient, yes, and gentle to a fault, but also aloof and reserved. If he does something right, be it learning a new spell or reading the cards better each time, there are no hugs, no kisses. Only an eerie smile and a slight nod.

But then he finds Muriel, and he's not alone. He has a friend, a good one at that, and they stick together like glue. They go everywhere with the other, quite literally attached to the hip. They confide in each other, care for the other, so he's not on his own. But Muriel doesn't show love the same way he does. He doesn't hug him, or ruffle his hair.

No, Muriel cares for him in other ways. Intead, he brings him food and make sure he eats, he protects him from some of the less friendly kids, he looks for safe places to sleep. He cares for him the best he can and Asra knows. And he's grateful— what Muriel does is more than enough. He cares for Muriel too. He teaches him magic, heals any cut or bruise he may have, he looks for clothes that will fit him, always checks twice before leaving a place to see if he leaves his cloak behind on accident.

And then he makes another friend. He saw them once in the market. They were walking around, looking at every stall, and stopping to chat amiably with the sellers. He sees them pass by the bakery and talk with the owner. He sees them leave laughing, with pumpkin bread in the basket.

And suddenly, they see him too, and they're smiling at him, and oh god they are coming closer. But they are friendly, and beautiful, and they smell so good and what is he thinking? They say they're Y/N and then there's a pause. Asra realizes he's supposed to say his name a second too late and his whole face burns, but they just smile and he stutters an “My na–name's Asra”, while still blushing furiously.

Yet their little bubble is popped when a woman in their late forties waves her hand and calls Y/N, and he feels his heart drop when they say “Sorry, that's my aunt, I have to leave”. He nods sadly, and they smile apologetically at him. “I hope I'll get to see you again, Asra”, they say and kiss his cheek, forcing his heart to come back up to his chest at dizzying speed, so he can only nod one more time. “Here,” they hand him the whole loaf and as he's about to protest they are already running towards their aunt. He watches them leave with a smile.

He sees them many times after that, and they become friends. They even meet Muriel a couple of times, and even though he's quiet and guarded, they also become friends and thanks them for the bread (And other things like pastries they bring him and Asra). They take walks in the market, at the docks, until one time they invite him to their aunt's shop. The both of them welcome him with open arms, and it's like a slap to the face to Asra.

This is their home. They live here. It's also a shop, yes, but it's so homely, so familiar, and it feels so intimate he's devastated for a second, but Y/N and Wisteria (the aunt) are smiling warmly and hugging him, and he's so overwhelmed that he grins from ear to ear and follows them around like a puppy, taking everything in, as much as he can at once. He's surprised to find out they're both magicians, Y/N being Wisteria's apprentice.

He leaves that day with a full belly, a basket overflowing with food Y/N prepared for Muriel, and three books about runes and charms that Asra knows Muriel will devour in a day. He knows he's whipped for them, he's sure, and he won't beat around the bush. So the next time he sees them, he plans to confess. But things don't always go according to plan.

Wisteria leaves Vesuvia on a trip, and Y/N is in charge of the shop, so they can't meet him half as much as they'd both like. It's always stolen moments between customers and errands; they get a bit anxious and both Asra and Muriel try to help them. So they stay in the shop, Asra is in charge of serving customers and Muriel gets thing from high selves and the small storeroom while you deliver some things. You just look at them from the doorway and marvel at how much you love them both. Asra gets used to having you close embarrassingly fast.

Wisteria finally comes back and finds you three eating together, laughing and happy, and she can't help but think that these boys don't deserve what happened to them. So she makes an offer, and lays it out for them. “There's a house in the woods, outside the city, it belonged to me and my partner Dante, but since she left I never used it”, she smiles, sadly “I want you both to have it, it's yours if you want it”. And you just want to jump in her arms and thank her a million times, because, finally, your boys are getting what they deserve. But Wisteria is not finished. “I'll only ask one thing in return, but first... Y/N, could you please leave us alone, dear?”, you open your mouth to complain, but one look at her and you excuse yourself. “What is it?” Muriel asks, and she turns to look at them, and smiles. “Take care of them, please. They're strong, and they can take care of themselves, but good friends are rare and scarce. Stay with them”. They're living in the cabin that same night.

Asra's surprised to meet you a week later, looking rather troubled. But he has no time to question you, as he finds your lips on his the moment he's beside you. He closes his eyes and responds with a passion, hands on your hair while you knead his shirt in your hands. He does his best not to whimper into your mouth, but his yearning for more, more, more, seems to break his will. And that choked noise seems to break your trance, so you step back. “I'm so sorry! I don't know what came over me! I just– You are–!” But he's kissing you again, and your chests are touching, and his hands are gripping your waist, and he smells oh, my God, so good and how can his hair be this soft? It's nearly too much, but neither of you are breaking apart.

Then, you two just stand there, foreheads touching and embracing each other. Until, “Oh, right”, and they're dragging him to the magic shop, where a little snake egg is nestled between cotton balls. “My aunt brought it with her from her trip, and put a heat spell over it”, Asra marvels at the soft, pastel purple colored egg, then he looks at you. “Since you told me your parents familiars are snakes... I thought maybe...” He knows you don't want to upset him, so you never bring up the topic around him, and he's grateful for that. So he looks at you, smiles, and says: “If I knew you would give me a present, I would have gotten you something as well”, and you're all smiles and blushes when you respond: “A kiss would do, i think”, and he kisses you once, twice... Many times.

And from then on, things change for Asra. He's not on his own, he's surrounded by love, and warmth, and people that he loves and loves him back. He has nightmares about his parents still, but now when he wakes up sweating with tears in his eyes, he has a roof over his head, and Muriel gives him a glass of water with a hand that's not bony or shaky anymore. And he feels everything settling into place slowly. He finds comfort in the little hut, but he knows he belongs with you.

Everytime you go around their home and bring gifts with you (be it pie, bread, books, sometimes even pretty flowers you pick on the way and that they set in a little vase over the hearth to humor you), he just puts the basket aside and kisses you, with his hands around your body and fighting back a smile. He seems to never get enough, and while he always checks for consent, it's a never ending display of affection. Not that anyone's complaining. Well, maybe Muriel, but that's because he catches you two making out in the bed! He sleeps there, you heathens! But when he gets dragged into a cuddle session with both of you cooing at him apologizing, he never complains again. (He totally did from time to time but you didn't hear it from me). And, alas, you notice Asra's shortage before he does.

He never let the fact sink in until you thread your finger though his white hair while reading to him one afternoon. When you're both laying in the grass under a huge tree, it's imposing height giving you a wide, cool shade. He has his head in your lap, and he's humming softly, basking in the clean smell of your clothes and the peaceful way you breath, but he realizes he is not listening to you at all. Oh, no, he was not. He was too preoccupied with feeling your fingers playing in his hair, your nails occasionally raking carefully along his scalp, the fleeting caress of your hand in his neck and shoulders... This simple touch is enough to overwhelm him, and it makes him sob into the peaceful air. And you know what's happening, of course, because you always feel like he's half of you, so you set the book aside and console him. He swears he fell in love with you deeper then, which he thought impossible. You swear you would never let him be lonely ever again.

Asra travels a lot, and explores all of Vesuvia. But he runs out of new places fast and yearns to go further, and yet he stays. He stays, and everyday you see him grow a little dimmer. You stand there watching him lose that light that seems to always shine bright around him, and start to grow a feeling of dread in the pit of your stomach. Asra's wanderlust has always been there, and now he's trying to drown it, and you know why. So you tell him. You tell him that wherever he choses to go, no matter how remote that place may be, he'll always know the way back home, he'll never be lost. He will always have you and Muriel to come back to. You hug him with a new-found strength, and you don't say goodbye. You don't need to. He also doesn't register the thick necklace with a blue crystal attached to it, twin to the one you have, that you laced around his neck, until he's far from home and missing you, feeling it radiate your magic like a heartbeat.

You always visit Muriel while he's away, partly because you don't want him to be alone, partly because you miss Asra a lot, and you both spend time together. He's non-verbal at times, so you just bask in the strong, calm aura he has about him and read while he shapes a piece of wood into intricate forms. He seems to find you peaceful, and at these times you find that you really do love the gentle giant. You know not to visit him too much though, seeing as he's taciturn, and too much interaction tires him out. You cut back your visits to one a week. Muriel is surprised to find himself waiting for you with a discreet smile. And he's also always more than willing to learn anything new you teach him.

Asra always comes back with tales that fill you with fascination, and leaves you admiring him with eyes full of stars. You also get to meet Faust, and she's so cute when she tastes the air around you, boops your nose and declares: “Friend!”. You just had to fall in love with the purple noodle. After a couple more travels on his own, he takes you with him. he just couldn't resist, and you find out about Asra's small house in Nopal. You relish in the details in the tiny space— the painting of constellations on the ceiling, the handmade wood figurines adorning some selves, some books you gave him. When you finally turn back, Asra's shawl is laying on a chair, with his bag on top, and he is barefoot. His shirt is almost completely undone, and oh, stars, he's glowing.

He just looks at you, but there isn’t a coy smile on his face, there is no knowing look on his eyes, as if he can read you like an open book, there is no confidence in the way he's standing there. He looks like an ethereal being, looking at you with searing intensity, unmoving and transfixed. “What is it?”, you mutter, and that seems to break him out from his trance. “Nothing... Nothing”, he's still staring, “You just look so... Beautiful, it's– it's... Unreal”. You come closer to him, a smug strut to your step, and caress his face with your fingertips. “I can show you how real I am, if you let me”, and he's taking your hand, kissing the palm, and closing his eyes as he says, “Show me how real you are, and I'll return the favor”. And he's back to the Asra you know by the time he's between your thighs. Such a shame that bliss didn't last forever.

Upon your return, you find the city drowned in panic. Apparently, there's a pandemic causing deaths by the hundreds. And there's no sign of a cure. The first thing you both do is find Muriel and Wisteria, Asra is relieved to find his friend healthy, both eyes clear and overall in good condition. You are not so lucky. Wisteria is sick, and very much so. Her eyes' scleras are red, and alarmingly bloodshot. The skin around the lids so sore it looks utterly raw. She is nothing but pale, and her veins are black and prominent under the paper thin skin of her body. She is dying, and the red plague is taking away her sanity. You are not sure is she recognizes you or not. But she's taking your hand into hers and mumbles something incoherently. A mantra of pain and exhaustion. And with that she closes her eyes, and a quiet stillness take over her. Cold, sweaty hands holding yours in a vice-line grip, and no goodbye.

You stay there, mouth clossed and tears falling, until Asra finds you. He takes one look at what's in front of him and starts to silently weep, both arms around you, rocking you back and forth. Then you let that strangled scream through. And he lets you. Wisteria is cremated, you see masked people take her away to the Lazaret. Muriel tells you all about it. How she fell sick a week after you left. How quick it deteriorated. How she forbade him of visiting her out of fear of him falling sick, too.

Apparently, your aunt wasn't the only victim. Nearly all your neighbourhood is being depleted. The kids you always saw playing around being carried away, dead and rotting, by men resembling death itself is not a vision you never saw coming. But, once again, a new problem arises.

Asra wants to leave. He wants to leave Vesuvia, and it's damned red plague, behind. He doesn't want to fall ill, and die in less than a week. And so, he tells you he wants you to come with him. Protection charms, spells, runes and the like can only do so much for you. For both of you. But you don't want to leave. That's how the fight ensues, with both of you looking at the other like they've lost their mind. Asra is not raising his voice, his eyes are cold, and you know he's scared, terrified even, but also furious. And so are you. You didn't think it would escalate so, so fast. “Are you really going to abandon them, Asra? This is your home too”, you are desperate, trying to make him understand. “No, it's not. This city's a graveyard, nothing more. We have to leave or we'll die”, you know he's right, but he sounds so... Cruel. Detached. “No”, and he's looking at you, mouth agape. “What?” “I said no. I'm staying. Do whatever you want. I am not leaving this people to die. I want to help”. For a fleeting moment, his eyes fill with emotions, looking like he's about to cry. But he doesn't. Instead he says, voice dripping with venom— “Good. Stay here, and fall sick. Die with them, I don't care. If you're too stupid to save yourself, it won't be me who does it for you”. He's gone the next morning.

You go to check on Muriel, and are surprised to find him there. He's perplexed. “This is my home, nothing will make me leave it”. You tell him what you're going to do, what your plans are. And he only nods and grunts. “You might die, you know”. It's your turn to nod. “Maybe, but I can't just sit while everyone dies... I can't run away”, he doesn't flinch at your jab, but you do. It's not his fault that Asra acted that way, but saying it out loud breaks your heart a bit more. “I'm...”, he's looking at you with a face that you've grown so accustomed to, so kind, and gentle, and familiar. With his imposing height, and capable hands, his heart of gold. Even his wooden figurines and obsession with those chickens. And you know you're doing the right thing, even if it does end up with you dead. “I'm going to do my best, Muriel”. That time, he's the one to hug you goodbye. The first time.

Heartbreak is honestly merciless, but you don't have time to take pity on yourself. You have a city to help. You're learning under a doctor, as a helping hand, a nurse of some sorts, actually. Glad you are not learning under Valdemar's sinister smile, the lanky doctor is actually kind of nice. If not dorky and childish, but he's good at what he does, and he's patient and soft-spoked with you when he's either teaching you or correcting you. He does have a strange fascination with leeches though. But he treats his patients with care, and the corpses with respect, before their moved to the Lazaret. Some of the other doctors are a bit more... Morbid, in their interest on the subject.

Asra never contacts you again, not even when you try to reach him using the necklaces. You only feel you're own magic and coldness. He never answers back. You wonder if he's gotten rid of it. That brings tears to your eyes. And that's how doctor 069 finds you. In his office, teary-eyed, and a little blue flame in your hand, enveloping the azure crystal. “You're a magician?”, you know doctors are skeptical of magic, but you can't lie now. “Yes...”, and you expect him to get rid of your help, but he doesn't. “Why are you not helping people with magic, then?”, he sounds genuinely intrigued, so you answer with the truth. “This”, you show him your hand, burning blue, “can only do so much”. He's closer now, inspecting the flame curiously. “And it certainly didn't do anything for my aunt”, with that, the fire dies out. He's looking at you like he understands, like he believes you. And you're crying again, and you're hugging him even when you know you should not. But he's embracing you awkwardly with those long arms of his and he doesn't say a word.

Nothing Julian does is working, and he's getting anxious. People keep dying by the minute and it seems unstoppable. He doesn't take care of himself at all. He never takes his eyes off that damn diary. You force him to eat, to sleep, even to take baths, and it isn't enough either. So you start spending more time with him, take on more responsibilities, to take some of the weight off his shoulders. He's thankful. And so he starts to trust you more. He opens up, slowly, and he takes more of your ideas into consideration. The blank margins of said diary start to fill with little illegible notes, your name in most of them— «YN thinks this, YN thinks that, I'll test YN's idea...» it's quite endearing, actually.

Unfortunately, all actions have consequences. One morning, while putting your work attire, the world seems to move under your feet, and next thing you know your head hits the floor, knocking you out cold. When you wake up, you're straped to one of the operatory tables in the dungeons, the ones the doctors had to prepare for the masses of sick people. Valdemar is looking at you behind their plague mask, a excited glint on those otherwise dead eyes, and when you look around you only see another doctor. It's Julian, you just know. You say his name, and he clenches his fists tight. Quaestor Valdemar answers instead. “You seem to have fallen ill...” They seem to try and remember your name, when they don't, their hands fold neatly in front of them, not really minding. “Doctor 069 has volunteered to treat you himself”. With that, they're gone.

Julian doesn't say a word, starting to take utensils out of a black, worn-out leather bag, and putting them in a little side table by your head. Each steel piece clean and glinting dangerously in the dim light. You say his name, weakly, and he doesn't look at you. You try again and he stops mid-movement, hand trembling lightly. “Is it...?”, lowering his hand, he waits for you to continue. “Is it the red plague?”. The way the mask's beak bobs up and down when he nods could be almost comical. But your eyes burn and there are tears rolling down your temples and you can't even rub them off. He does it for you.

From that moment, Julian moves his office beside you, and works tirelessly. But now you don't have the strenght to nag him to do anything. You can see his sunken eyes, the darkest bags under them, nose protuding from his face even more now, all of it under the mask, in your mind's eye. He's a mess really, and that's something coming from someone infected with a deadly desease. Sometimes, in the middle of the night, you hear him whimper apologies into thin air, head bowed. But you hallucinate from time to time, so you can't be sure.

Blood tests, those are the worst, even more so than the leeches. It feels like it torns your skin apart, and you don't think you can stand it anymore. Your mind is foggy and you can't see much, you can't even feel shame when Julian undresses you, cleans your naked body with warm, soapy water and dresses you back up. “I'm sorry”, you say breaking the silence, and it cuts the thick atmosphere like a red hot knife. He turns to look at you, startled. “I'm sorry I can't be of use”, not even sure if he can hear you, or if you're making any sense, “I'm dying and I won’t help anyone, I thought... At least...” Your face burns, «Am I crying?», you think, you didn't really believe your body had anything more to give. Julian's silent, so you make an effort and go on. “At least, I thought my body would help find a cure...”, your mouth feels dry, lips hurting, tongue abnormally heavy. “But I'll die, and I'm absolutely useless.” You think you hear a sob coming from somewhere, but you feel your eyes rolling to the back of your skull, blacking out.

You never really come back to your senses after that, feverish dreams start meddling with reality and you are too far gone to try and tell them apart. You only hang on for one reason. To attemp to contact Asra one last time. So you focus all of the power you can muster into the necklace, which you begged julian not to take off, and listen. Nothing. One more time. Nothing, again. Desperation grows within you. Is it not working? Please, please, please... But your magic finds nothing, only a deep, dark void of nothingness welcomes you. Not sunlight, and gold, and gaiety. Asra's magic is not on the other side. You decide to just let go.

When Julian notices he doesn't hear your uneven breathing anymore, he panics and looks at you, but it's too late. What really shocks him to the core, what would be engraved into his mind for as long as his mind was untouched... would be the sad, broken smile on you face, unbothered by the death rattles taking over your chest. He runs to hold you down, fingers digging painfully on your belly, shoulder, thorax, tears fogging his vision. “No...! No, no!”, but he can't stop it, and you're getting cold already. He sees you moving your mouth, but it isn't until your lips are still and your body lax, that he understands. “Goodbye”.

Your body is put in a boat an hour later and Julian is there to see it off. The town's people look at him in either fear or resigned sorrow, and maybe even pity, too. When the boat takes off to the Lazaret, he stays there even when it's out of sight. He contemplates the island, with it's black column of smoke, like a channel where souls go, to never come back. So he imagines a flight of stairs, leading up, up, past the smoke, the fire, and the ashes. Higher than the clouds, and the stars. Somewhere safe, without pain, with nothing to fear. Far from this curse. When he turns to leave, he finds the docks are deserted. The air silent and solemn like that of a cemetery. How appropriate.