#sorry younger followers >.> i really did debated whether to post this or not but it's only suggestive language sooooooo

[spoopy-sloth]

I saw the meme below and thought I would give it a shot with these two lololol. Let them have their fun, yeah?

Sigh, I miss these boys.

The meme^^

[starlessea]

I See Red (Daryl Dixon/Reader)

Prompt: “If you hurt my brother, I’ll kill you. I swear I’ll kill you all.” Requested by @alex-sulli​​​, numbers #25 and #29 from this post.

Summary: You’ll threaten anyone who dares mess with your little brother; and Daryl is left to pick up the pieces when you feel guilty for doing so.

Words: 2078

Warnings: Language.

Never before in your life had you found yourself at a loss for words. Whether it was rambling to Daryl during the early hours of the morning whilst he grumbled to let him sleep, or giving your father grief like it were an older sibling’s duty, you always had something to say. That was, however, until now.

Carl had his hands held up, directly in front of his face so that they were visible. He shot you a look, urging you to do the same. You didn’t. Instead, you glanced back and forth between your brother and Ron, like you couldn't quite comprehend what was happening.

"It's fine." Carl said, trying to reassure you. "I've got this."

He didn't. 

You'd been upstairs, watching over Judith whilst your father and Michonne were on their patrols, when suddenly you heard shouting coming from Carl's room. You sighed, thinking you'd have to scold your teenage brother and his friends for being too rowdy when your little sister was fast asleep in her crib. At first, you let them off the hook, but when glass shattered in the distance you decided enough was enough.

You'd bound down the stairs with the practiced heavy footsteps of an older sister, already preparing your best yelling voice. Except, rather than the row you were expecting to give, you were rendered speechless as you flung open the door.

Ron stood with his arm outstretched, pointing a pistol directly at your brother. Carl glanced back at the sound of you entering his room, and pleaded with you to follow his lead. The other boy remained silent, but shifted his weight on his feet as you glared at him. 

Ron was no killer; you watched as his hand trembled over the gun, and he chewed his lip between his teeth. He was no killer - but he was certainly an asshole.

"Put it down." You demanded, taking a few steps closer to him. "Now!"

The boy flinched as you yelled, and Carl glanced back at you nervously. You didn't care what he'd told you; there was no way you'd allow him to diffuse the situation alone. Your innocent baby sister lay asleep upstairs, and your younger brother was facing a loaded gun downstairs. You thought your father would actually kill you if anything happened to either of them on your watch.

Ron fumbled with the gun, narrowing his eyes at you like he was debating your words. You'd expected him to surrender it immediately, and let you march him home to his mother by the ear. Except, he didn't. He trained his aim on you instead, and his shoulders shook even more as he did so. You let out a bitter laugh in disbelief, and raised an eyebrow at him. He didn't back down, but neither did you. 

Carl watched the exchange as you walked even closer to Ron, until the barrel of the pistol lay flush against your chest. He didn't pull the trigger; you knew he wouldn't. You could feel the cold metal quivering against your skin, and you took it from him without hesitation. 

He let you, and took a few steps back in response to you getting even nearer to his face - so close that you could see his skin prickle from your breath on his cheek.

"If you hurt my brother, I'll kill you." You whispered, letting him feel the gun against his own torso this time. "I swear I'll kill you all." 

The boy looked down at his shoes, as your foreheads pressed together.

"You think you can pull a gun on my family?" You questioned, forcing his chin up with your knuckle. "Then wait until you see what I can do to yours."

You unloaded the gun, letting the magazine fall to the floor as you watched the bullets scatter out from it. You took a step back, and watched as Ron seemed to take his first breath. He immediately glanced over at Carl for some support, and you laughed in his face as he did so. You couldn’t believe he dared have the audacity to look to your brother for help not even minutes after threatening to kill him.

"Get out." You spat, and the boy did just that.

Your jacket caught on the handle as you snapped open the door a little too forcefully, and you growled below your breath. You'd been looking forward to returning home all day, and having some time to yourself to relax - but now all you saw was red. You kicked the door shut behind you with your boot, and grimaced at the sound of it slamming, and the glass shaking in the pane.

Daryl looked over at you curiously, raising an eyebrow where he stood in the kitchen. He was covered in grease, and you guessed he'd been working on his motorcycle whilst you were with the teenage firing squad. 

"How was yer day?" He drawled, pouring you a glass of water from the sink.

You sighed, and slumped into his chest when you reached him - letting your forehead drop against his shirt.

"I think I just threatened a sixteen year old." You mumbled there, and heard him chuckle as you did.

Daryl took a sip of the water, forgetting to offer you some first.

"Yeah, mine was good too." He replied, nonchalantly, and you hit him over the shoulder.

"Daryl-" you whined, not having the energy for playful banter.

He smiled at you sheepishly, and rubbed the back of your head, gently playing with some strands of hair between his fingers. There were oil-stains over his clothes, and he looked like he needed a shower. Though, at this moment, you didn't really care that the grease had rubbed off on you, or that your hair probably looked like coal dust.

"What did Carl do this time?" He asked sarcastically, but it made your blood run hot merely thinking about it.

"My brother didn't do anything." You snapped, and immediately regretted your tone. "It was Ron."

Daryl let out a low laugh, and you felt it rumble through his chest. He squeezed your shoulders, feeling the tension that had built up there.

"Does seem like kind of a lil' shit, don' he?"

You sighed; if only he knew the half of it. Daryl pressed his knuckles against your lower back, relieving the stress from your muscles. You closed your eyes, savouring the feeling.

"He pulled a gun on Carl." You admitted to the man, and instantly noticed as he stopped massaging your skin. "Then aimed it at me when I told him to drop it."

It was like you'd shown a red rag to a bull. Daryl went from completely loving to positively menacing in a matter of seconds, and stormed straight past you towards the door. 

"Daryl, stop-" you called out, panicked. "He's just a kid." 

You grabbed onto the man's shoulder, and he turned on his heels as you did so. His brow was furrowed, and you watched him narrow his eyes like he couldn't at all understand why you held him back.

"And kids should know their damn place." He growled, making your shiver.

You placed your hand over his chest, spreading your palm flat to feel his pounding heartbeat.

"He does. I made sure of it." You said quietly, trying to convince the man. "I'm just regretting the way I handled it."

Daryl immediately noticed the way your voice trailed off, and how your eyes dropped to the floor like you were ashamed. You weren't proud of what you did; but it needed to be done. You couldn't risk anything happening to your family - not when you'd all fought this hard just to stay together.

The man brought his hand to your cheek, coaxing you to look up and meet his eyes. You did, and he placed a soft, chaste kiss to your forehead - which you could feel him smile into ever so slightly.

"Is he still breathin'?" He mumbled against your skin, seeming to have calmed down enough to comfort you, instead.

"What-" you stuttered, before registering his words. "Yes, of course." You spoke, a little too loudly and a little too quickly.

Daryl chuckled, and wiped away some oil he'd gotten on your face with his thumb.

"Then ya handled it jus' fine."

There was a knock at your door not even an hour later. You'd told Daryl you would get it, but he bounded there before you had the chance - instructing you to stay on the couch and keep your feet up. He'd gotten a blanket and tucked you in so tightly that it felt like you were on an army base. You giggled to yourself, wondering if there was anything that man wouldn't do for you.

"Is she there?" Ron asked Daryl, mustering every ounce of confidence he had. "I want to apologise."

He scowled back, and practically snarled at the boy barely half his size but twice as stupid. Daryl was sure he could knock him on his ass as easy as the wind blowing a piece of paper through the breeze. He was scrawny, and fumbled with his hands like he couldn't dare to meet his eyes.

"Listen here, ya lil' prick." Daryl spoke, biting out the words. "Ya pull that shit again an' you'll have me to deal with."

You flipped the page of your magazine, re-reading the events from over a year ago and mumbling something about 'yesterday's news.' You tried your hardest to relax, but you had a nagging feeling that you couldn't escape from - making you feel antsy and on edge.

"Hi." Came the voice, wobbling through your living room like it was coated in a layer of shyness. "I just came to say I'm sorry." 

Whipping your head around, you caught sight of Ron, shifting uncomfortably in the doorway. Daryl stood behind him, like he was blocking any escape route he may have planned - but in reality, he looked like a grouchy guard dog having come to make sure you were okay.

For the second time today, you felt speechless, and slowly closed your magazine before tucking it underneath a pillow. Not even an hour ago had you staked your life on how intimidating you could seem, and now you were bundled up near the fire like a grandmother with arthritis. You blinked, and stood up quickly - letting the woven blanket fall to the floor and kicking it under the couch like a poorly kept secret.

"I guess I was jealous of Carl." Ron continued, feeling pressured by your lack of response. "I'll never do anything like that again. I promise."

You met his eyes but he looked away, staring at the photo frames littering your walls - and resting his gaze over the picture of you, Carl and Judith in the centre.

"Damn right you won't." You finally replied, and watched the boy flinch like your words had cut him open.

"Come here." You instructed, and he listened.

When he approached, you slumped back down onto the couch, not caring if he noticed your glossy magazine slipping out from under the pillows. You patted the space next to you, gesturing for him to sit. He did, and the two of you stared into the red flames of the fire, watching them jump and splutter in front of you.

"When we're scared, we do stupid things." You told Ron, your voice coming out a lot softer than it had done before.

You caught sight of Daryl in the corner of your eye, leaning against the doorframe like he was content to watch from afar - leaving you to finish what you'd started. He'd always have your back, but sometimes he just wanted to hang back to see where you decided to take him.

"In this new world, you only have two options." You explained, and gave Ron's shoulder a gentle squeeze.

The boy jumped a little at your touch, but soon settled into it when he realised how different it was from earlier that day.

"You can either fight it, or accept it." You said, listening to the crackle of firewood as it turned into red embers. "Fear it, or control it."

A/N For my sweet @alex-sulli who always leaves the most wonderful comments that never fail to make my day :)

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[mxnrly]

the red house, changkyun

⠀

slight nsfw, thriller !

I wrote this like a year ago, when this song came out and I fell in love with the mv and the lyrics. If you want to see what the song is, here it is. Either way, I'm editing this at 2 am because I felt the need of posting it. I originally wrote this in spanish and it really took me a while sjdjs I hope you like it tho! 

tw: not too explicit nsfw, unprotected sex, dom/sub dynamic (both are switches, y’all see), pet name,  mentions of blood. 

wc: 6.8k

⠀

An idiot.

That's what I liked to call the kid who lived across the street. An undoubtedly attractive boy. Gorgeous and with a sensual aura like no other. He had an attractive look, and his presence was always full of mystery. He looked like a demon brought from hell, always wearing those dark denim pants that stuck to his legs, a white long-sleeved shirt and a leather jacket set with the logo of a serpent crossed with two swords.

His hair was always messy, because it was straight and he used to run his hand through it at all times. Not that I was constantly looking at him but, it was a twitch I had gotten used to seeing since I had known him.

The boy had been my neighbor for two years now, and every Saturday it was the same, he would leave the house and not come back until the next day. Whenever I told my best friend about him leaving, he told me to just stay away from him, that if I really wanted to keep his trust I should just forget about that boy and move on with my life. But, it was so easy to say or think about it, but not do it. Somehow, being neighbors was making my life difficult because now it seemed that my walls wanted to know about him too and they were getting thinner so that I could hear from when he was leaving until when he arrived.

My best friend's older brother, Jooheon, was the neighbor's best friend. I knew this because I had already seen him in front of the boy's door with his car, a black '69 GTO convertible and a beer in his hand. The two of them got along great because every day since I lived there, they always went out at the same time, no matter what.

That night I was partying with my best friend and a girl with whom I had started to form a friendship because she was in the art department, although she was just a year younger than us.

“You're crazy if you think we're going to let you go.” And there I was, another Saturday night wanting to go wherever my neighbors were.

“I see you've been very interested in him for a long time, what do you think they are doing?” asked the girl while Jooheon and the idiot went inside their house.

“I really don't know, but since he came to this place I want-”

“You want nothing, God, stop making her get any ideas." scolded the boy to the other girl.

The room suddenly became silent, and then somehow, I started to feel my throat and stomach warm. “I don't understand why you don't want me to go.”

“We've talked about this a million times. I'm just protecting you.”

“But from what? I won't know if you don't let me come closer.” My voice was getting louder and louder until it exploded. “You won't let me get close but I know you're as curious as I am, Jooheon is your brother!”

“Jooheon comes back every morning smelling of alcohol and cheap women's perfume. There are always cigarettes in his car and I've found underwear in the glove compartment, do you really want to continue with that curiosity? I don't know exactly what those two do but, believe me, they don't go to a lake to drink and have fun, they have their plans, do strange things and then come back as if nothing had happened.”

“Didn't you try to tell your mother?" asked the younger girl, suddenly causing the boy to deny instantly.

“One of the rules Heon gave me was that I had to keep silence, first of all if, I wanted to continue living with him. Until I'm legal, I can't buy an apartment on my own." he said with a shrug.

Silence reigned again somehow. There was only the faint music of an American artist whom we did not really know.

Staying out until the morning, I can hear the door.

I can smell all the whiskey and the smoke on your breath.

A chill ran down my back and I sighed. “I'm sleepy guys, the day was really exhausting from the beginning and we have a test on Monday so I want to take tomorrow off at dawn to study." I said faster than I planned.

Because tonight, sleep was the last thing in my plans.

Once they had left my house, I went to my room to change my clothes. I put on something comfortable to keep up with them. With my shoes on, I left my house taking my car keys. The boys were leaving the house so I had to hide quickly behind the vehicle. I felt the heaviness in my chest from doing something against my morals.

The sound of the GTO engine took me out of my thoughts. They came quietly out of the parking lot, giving me time to get into my car and start it. My heart started pounding but I stayed focused and started following the boys' car with some distance. They were getting further and further away from the circle of places I knew, but my curiosity seemed to dominate at this point over reason. I knew that was a bad sign, but I had gone far enough to take it back.

The car quickly drove off the road into some black buildings. Now, I knew that if I followed them in there I would look very obvious, so I drove past the place and saw that there was no way out. They were parked in front of a wall that was purple because of the neon light up there. Debating whether to go or not, I finally turned off the vehicle and started getting out of it.

I walked to the large green door which was lit by the purple light, noticing that, from the wall, a strange vibration could be felt. Music. That's all it could be.

I opened the door and instantly smelled the stench of nicotine and liquor. There was a certain mixture of lotions and perfumes that made everything more intense. The door closed behind me, making me shudder. Hell, I wanted to go home.

Resigned, I began to walk around the place watching my feet because there seemed to be unevenness everywhere. The place was painted red, although it was because of the coloured lights on the sides of different walls. Red was the only thing you saw, everything was tinted and it seemed to be a much scarier place than it really was.

I took the first glass I saw, smelling the strong smell of tequila and mint. I grimaced a little and took a sip, as I put it back in its place again. I couldn't see the boys anywhere and that was starting to scare me. What if they were somewhere else and had deceived me?

I was overthinking the situation, when I felt a strong pull on my arm. Someone had taken me in a very firm manner. Before I could protest, the person who had alienated me showed his face.

And I saw him. I was dazed at seeing his face tinted by the red lights.

“I told you not to come, why don't you ever listen to me?”  my best friend, the one who always prohibited me to come to where his brother was, asked almost above the level of the music. My mind was beginning to wander, but I held on.

“What do you mean, don't come? You had told me that you had no idea what they were doing, and now it turns out that you are one of them?”

The boy rubbed his face lightly and took me by the shoulders. “You're crazy, they're going to kill you. Get out of here, now.”

That made my world stop. Kill?

“What are you saying?” But before he could even answer, the light went out making the music go away, causing all the people to scream. Several people beside me ran past, knocking me to the ground, and I feared the worst.

I squatted in fear without really knowing what to do, when I suddenly stopped and hit someone running in my direction. I felt a camera flash in my face and my stomach turned over. The flash went off leaving me stunned. The person took my hand and started running towards what appeared to be the other side of the room, opposite the direction of where the exit door was. Suddenly the screaming stopped and the door lock was heard being set. My legs shook and I swallowed hard. I didn't know anything about self-defense, so I thought about the only thing I was supposed to protect myself and that was my car keys. I grabbed, with each key I had between my fingers, making a fist with spikes in case this person got too far.

Then the light came, but not the artificial light. A natural light. A candle.

I looked at the back of the person who had lit the device, noticing a snake on his back. Oh God.

“You're lucky I brought you this far. People usually die in the state you were in, not to mention that it's your first time in the red house.”

My mind was spinning. Death? Red house?

“I'm sorry, I…”

“I know you don't understand anything, you don't have to worry, (Y/N). Things are simple…”

“Wait wait, how do you know my name?”

The boy smiled, but only because he didn't answer my question. “I am Changkyun, so we are even.”

A small silence formed. There were hasty footsteps on the other side of the door and desperate hands trying to find a room, I supposed.

“Quiet," he said, "no one is going to come in, but they can’t know that we’re here.”

“So, are you going to explain to me what this is all about?” I asked, anxiety in my voice.

“Listen, this place isn't for people like you," he said with a dark look in his eye. “Every Saturday there is a massive party where people come to play something like hide and seek," he said with a touch of mockery, but there was more to his voice than that. “There are people who are the "seekers", those who look for people to catch them, when the lights go out, people have ten minutes to run and hide without being able to leave the place, and when those ten minutes are over…”

A loud noise that made the whole building rumble was heard loud and clear. Changkyun smiled and looked at me. “It is time to play.”

The boy reached inside his jacket and looked at me before taking the goatee. “Don't leave here until I come back for you. Don't open the door for anyone, understand?”

My nod did not reach his eyes for he had already left the room and locked it again before closing the door behind him. I turned around to look around, finding a couch that looked warm, a rug in the middle of the room, and a mini-bar. I didn't want to wonder what the room was for because there were other strange surfaces.

I sighed as I sat on the couch with the candle in my hand. The idiot was into this kind of game, but I still didn't understand enough, what did he mean when he said it was time to play? The idea that this was a deadly game haunted me, but it couldn't be that murky. I unconsciously denied it by huddling more in my place. A few screams were heard outside the room, causing me to shiver. Good Lord, what was all that about?

I couldn't just stand here, what if I'd just been set up? Yes! That had to be it.

I approached the door slowly, removing the latch and preparing to leave when I felt the door open from the outside. It was Changkyun rushing in, panting without facing me. I looked at his back with curiosity, without blowing out the candle, he turned to see me. I could see the drops of what appeared to be blood on his shirt and face.

My body froze.

"Run"

My movements went faster than I thought trying to go around him to escape through the door that was still open, however a gust of wind hit my face when I noticed the door closing with twice the speed I was going. I closed my eyes in fear and lowered my head. Was I really going to die now?

“Raise your head, we must get out of here," he said, puzzling me.

“Aren’t you gonna kill me?” I asked, but he didn't answer. He walked past me and opened the only window in the room wide, tore the spring and squatted on the frame. And out of nowhere, I lost sight of him.

I screamed as I saw him fall. Rushing to the frame, I saw him standing in the grass on that side of the place. I wondered how come we were on the second floor if, in my memory, I hadn't walked up the stairs.

“Jump!” He shouted from below, showing his arms in front of him.

“You're crazy!” I shouted in annoyance looking behind me. There was no way he could make me jump.

“They're going to kill you. Come here.”

“How do I know you won't kill me?” I asked, scared, my throat tightening. I looked at the free fall I would have and felt the air get stuck in my chest.

”We'll go home, I promise, I'll tell you everything, but please come with me," he begged, and it was the first time I'd seen him this worried. He always used to look relaxed and without any worry in him, but the reality just now was different.

My shoulders fell in place. I would die anyway. The screams kept coming from the door, when it suddenly opened. The latch had never been set and now it was just me and death. I looked over my shoulder, noticing a figure approaching.

“Please!" was the last thing I heard before I fell freely through the door frame.

And everything went black.

A severe headache was constantly poking at my head. The back of my eyes hurt, as if I had been looking at the artificial light for a long time. I was cold and somehow I could think it was midnight. Hearing noise in the distance, I sat down where I had been lying. It was my living room, but there was someone else. My heartbeat quickly started to increase when I remembered a little of what had happened.

“You woke up. Here, I made you some tea, but I'm not good at anything that has to do with cooking so I don't think it tastes like anything," said the idiot, suddenly appearing with a half smile, rubbing the back of his neck in discomfort.

I tasted it and indeed, it tasted like nothing but bitter water, but I didn't tell him. I just took a deep breath and looked at it. He was looking at me so intently that I almost forgot what had happened. The stains on his shirt gave him away and he wasn't wearing his jacket.

“What happened," I asked, holding the cup in both hands so that he could give me some warmth. Changkyun sighed and sat down beside me. “You fainted, I think from the fright and the mixed emotions. I had no car, so I went through your pockets and found your keys and brought us home.”

Listening at his statement, I took a look outside my house seeing the car perfectly parked in the driveway. “Did you put your hands in my pants?” I asked with a scowl.

The boy instantly raised his hands in fright. “No, the keys were in your sweatshirt," he said, clearing his throat after that. “I'm sorry you were there, you really can't go back…”

“I want to know everything about that place, though…” Changkyun looked at me with doubt, and I put the cup down on the small coffee table. “You said you would explain everything if I threw myself out of the window, and here we are so start talking.”

“Well,” he was a bit quiet after that, as if trying to find the right words. “every Saturday there's a massive party at that place. Everyone knows about that party because of its high class alcohol and good vibes, but everything has its price. When it's eleven o'clock, the lights go out and people have to hide, of course, the ones who know what the game is about, the ones who don't, just run around senselessly. You have ten minutes to hide wherever you want in the house and when those ten minutes are up, the seekers come out to have some fun. What we call, "the wolf." Have you ever heard the nursery rhyme of, "We'll play in the forest while the wolf is away? Well, that's what it's about. They go out at ten past eleven to kill anyone they can get their hands on, lights out. When another ten minutes go by, the lights come back on and the party's over.”

My surprised face seemed to alarm him as he got nervous and looked down. “Once you enter the red house parties, you can't stop attending, because after that day, they know all about you and will do his best to see you die. The red house is a secret, no one should tell the police, and there has to be a winner. One that's left alive among all of us…”

“Then you and Jooheon…”

“Yes, he and I went into those parties three years ago, but after the first one we were as scared as anyone else. We left intact and tried to just forget about it and move on with our lives, but the seekers were smarter. They started sending us letters threatening to come back or kill anyone we came in contact with. We tried to move but nothing worked, so... We had no choice but to play the game.”

“But why are you the one who's full of blood? I could bet you're carrying a knife in your jacket right now.” I accused him, staring at his stained shirt.

“I'm carrying a knife because we've formed a clan. We're seven people from different places and ages who are willing to kill the seekers to end this nonsense, but... They have lots of henchmen, too, and every Saturday it seems to get harder.”

I looked at the clock on the wall in front of us striking twelve in the morning. I felt somehow agitated and helpless. “Jooheon’s little brother told me that you were beginning to be interested in going to the parties, but he never let you because we knew what you would be exposed to. He is an ally, not a member of the clan, but because of Jooheon he ended up in trouble. You were really warned, you have to run away, or dig a hole and stay there…’

‘What if I fight with you?’ I said but I felt I should have kept quiet. His gaze became darker as his breathing became heavier.

“I would never let you expose yourself to that, you are crazy.” His tone was so authoritative that I did not know whether I wanted to challenge him or obey his order.

“Listen, you said that somehow the seekers know who you are. Before I jumped out the window a man saw me, they know who I am already... I might as well die so let me fight for my life.”

“I can't let those bastards hurt you.”  his voice seemed to get deeper as time went by. “I won't let them touch a single strand of your hair.”.

His attitude took me by surprise. “Changkyun…” I tried to negotiate with him, come to an agreement.

My voice was interrupted as I was whipped on my back, with both of his hands around my wrists pinching any possible movement. I had him so close, God. He smelled of pure masculinity... of heavy, dark perfume mixed with sweat. I inhaled without wanting to look too harassing, but it was impossible to go unnoticed by the boy's eyes, who smiled so charmingly.

“You are not going to die... Not tonight, not ever," he whispered close to my lips. I stuck out my tongue as a reflection and that drew the boy's gaze upon me. His eyes connected with mine, directing them a few milliseconds to my lips and back to my eyes, as if to say let me kiss you.

I inhaled hard again filling my lungs with his scent, starting to feel the weight of his lips on mine. I closed my eyes on contact and I could swear I had tasted an aphrodisiac. The texture was so similar to silk but the depth with which he took me was so mesmerizing that my brain threatened to fade again. I opened my eyes, noticing her eyelashes lying so thinly on his cheeks, which were slightly flushed. His black bangs tickled my eyebrows because of the closeness. Slowly he let go of my wrists, giving me way to touching his shoulders and running my arms around his neck, as I felt his muscles contracting. One of his hands went down to my waist in circles, while the other remained steady on my cheek, not letting its weight fall entirely.

His back muscles tensed and relaxed as my tongue gently traced his lower lip, seeking to deepen the kiss. Changkyun gladly agreed to begin a delightful dance, each taking his time to delve into the other's body. Changkyun pressed his body against mine, causing me to gasp, which separated me from the kiss, causing us to open our eyes to see each other. His lips were tinged with a light and beautiful red, while I happened to notice a glint above his left eye. I reached out with one hand to clear his bangs and found a striking detail on eyebrow. A captivating perching that lit a flame inside me.

I brought him back to my lips and we enjoyed each other's company all night long. Maybe this game thing could be a reason to see each other more often.

I woke up in my room, in a horrible heat. My neck and back were sweating, which made me instantly sick. It was 7:00 in the morning and it was already so damn hot. I took a shower and went into the living room to find Changkyun's body lying on the couch. His jacket was on one of the kitchen chairs, so I went over to check it out. I reached into the first pocket, instantly pulling out the knife I knew he was carrying. It was partially covered in blood. Feeling an electric shock down my spine, I couldn't help but sigh deeply. At any rate, Changkyun was the good guy, right?

I found his cell phone, but I felt his stare on the side of my head. I turned around to see that Changkyun had woken up but not only that, he was looking directly at me.

“Are you looking for something that proves the opposite of what I showed you yesterday?”

“I am.” I said, nodding.

“Damn it, I thought everything was all right," he said in a hoarse voice, snatching his cell phone from me.

I frowned and shrugged. “You always have to be careful.”

That seemed to insult him as he looked at me skeptically. Not giving a second glance at him, I headed to the kitchen for a glass of orange juice. The boy quickly went to the refrigerator to pour himself the same drink. I noticed the smell of last night with more intensity and turned around to see it. He wasn't wearing a shirt.

The liquid froze in my throat making me feel the sudden acidity, causing my body to cough slightly. The image that I had in my kitchen was worthy of admiration but I simply could not stand it at seven in the morning. Changkyun laughed and tapped my back.

“I'm sorry to surprise you, it's just that it's hot," he said as if it were the most normal thing to do. My eyes rolled back in their narcissism and I headed for my living room.

“Don't you want to take a shower?”

The boy moved his eyebrows suggestively. “Do you want to see me all wet and naked?”

My face turned a deep red and I had to refrain from throwing the remaining juice in the glass. “At your house, you idiot.”

“Yes, try to fix your horniness.” He said, taking his clothes. “I'll be back in a minute, princess.”

I fake gagged at the pet name and rolled my eyes. He put his shirt back on and left my house giving me time to breathe. God, couldn't I be in the same place as him for one more minute without thinking about indecent things?

After a few minutes of searching for something to watch on netflix, I settled down on my couch when the doorbell rang.

“It's still open.” I yelled because I assumed it was Kyun, but no one came in. Strange. I got up from my place opening the door, finding Jooheon’s brother.

“Can I come in?" he asked hesitantly. I looked at him in surprise, and without saying anything to him, I moved away from the door to let him in. “I only came to apologize for having lied to you about not knowing anything. I also came to see if you were all right.” His look never connected with mine, which bothered me to some extent. I crossed my arms and looked at him.

“I don't understand why you did it, but I guess it doesn't matter now, it just matters to get out of that silly game.”

“Did Changkyun explain everything to you?” I nodded and cleared my throat.

“Yes, he brought me home.”

He played with his hands and reached into his jacket bag. Taking out a small envelope, he gave it to me. “Don't trust anyone.” He whispered before he left, making me scoff. Yeah right, look who says that.

Once the boy left my house, I took the envelope in both hands and sighed. There was no sign of Changkyun returning from his home, so I tore the white envelope and found a half-wrinkled note with somewhat illegible handwriting, but which clearly said, "Welcome to the game.” with my name in the bottom right corner. There was an extra note that made my heart start beating fast. I was beginning to think that my best friend, if I could still call him that, had more ideas about the game than others might have. I shook my head and sighed, I couldn't do that to Changkyun and Jooheon, they had somehow kept an eye on me all this time.

The doorbell of my house rang, making me shudder, to quickly put the letter in the first drawer I saw. I took three deep breaths and then approached the door. I opened it to find the boy with a purple hoodie and a gray pantsuit. I smiled at him as calmly as possible and invited him in.

Saturday again. I had contacted my best friend several times after that letter. He assured me that he did not know absolutely about its contents but I knew that he was lying to me. Now he would take me to the building, winning over Changkyun whom I had to refuse the offer.

Speaking of Changkyun, we had both had meetings at the other's house, more casual than I would have thought. He rarely went over the line and always used to make the times much more comfortable. We had not reached the stage where we had gone to bed for any purpose other than sleep, and somehow he felt that he was waiting for something.

At ten o'clock, the car parked in front of my house. I was just about to leave when I noticed my best friend coming into my house at a fast pace with a box in his hands. He scanned my body, noticing my red satin dress and my silver heels. He smiled and took my hand.

“I think I have something for you," he said, pulling out a black dress that was supposed to be attached to my body, halfway up my thigh and angel wings of the same color. I looked at him skeptically and he laughed. “Come on, it's part of the deal if you want to come to the party after all, and I know Changkyun will not resist you with this on.”

I took the garment in my hands and took a big breath of air. Would he really?

I didn't think about it anymore. Going to my room and putting on my clothes. A chill ran down my back but I did not let the feeling of fear win over me, just taking a couple of deep breaths before returning to the room where my friend was sitting on the couch with his cell phone in his hands. When he saw me, he smiled broadly and took my hand to walk on my feet. “Damn, you look beautiful. Let’s go now, there’s a boy you must conquer tonight.”

That night I felt that I was about to make the biggest mistake of my life but at the same time I thought… Do I really have to do this to come out alive? Could the game end after all?

We entered the building. The walls were moving at the sound of the song playing currently...

My breath got stuck in my throat when I located the boy I was there for. Changkyun saw me with such a penetrating and seductive look. He was wearing leather jeans alongside a short-sleeved satin shirt with different colored patterns, purple, blue, yellow and red. There was a chain on his pants and from his neck fell a necklace of what appeared to be a gold chain. His hair was disheveled, although it had a specific direction and that was his right, raised slightly upwards allowing me to see his forehead and his piercing to perfection. As we connected glances, he smiled openly at me. My throat closed for a moment, leaving me breathless, but I managed to look normal to his scrutinizing gaze.

Apologize, never apologize

You hate the way I lie

So here you go, I'm being honest

“Hey, are you a fallen angel?" he asked, touching his fingertips to the wings tied behind my back. I smiled and denied that question.

“No, I only came to find a demon with which to play tricks in this destroyed world." I said, approaching him tentatively. At my boldness, I noticed how his gaze darkened a little.

“Then it's your lucky day, because I'll be the one to deny you entry to heaven, honey.”

Narcissist, come on, give us a kiss

Let's have some fun with it

It's kinda sweet...

Both of us, with the look of some children with a new toy, starting to head for the same place. It was still early, so the seekers and his henchmen didn't worry us at all. Once inside the room we had been in a week ago, Changkyun locked the door, his back at me. At the sight of his legs inside those leather pants, I couldn’t help but bite my lower lip. Thoughts of impurity began to tingle in my mind, causing my temperature to rise constantly.

Once the boy began to approach me, I felt that I still had a way out and that everything could change at any moment. That I still had time to take it back. But then he planted his lips on mine and all I could think about was "Shit."

The situation was getting deeper and more exciting. It tasted bitter, as if it had tasted blood itself before it kissed me. The slight taste of alcohol flooded my taste buds as his tongue investigated my palate. Our tongues brushed against each other, sending shivers down my spine. Jesus.

His scent was beginning to make me dizzy. Too manly and addictive, it made me want more, like nicotine straight into my bloodstream. I gasped for air, which the boy agreed to do by separating himself from me. In less time than I thought, my back was on the couch in the room, my eyes looking directly into his irises that I could hardly discern from the lack of light, since the only light there was the red LED light that was all over the building. His skin was slightly pinkish. His touch traced my figure in an exquisite manner, making me feel a warm path where he posed his fingertips.

Four in the morning, you're changing the locks

How could you do this to me?

I placed my hands around his neck and brought my lips close to his, nibbling on the soft, tender skin. His moles covered some extremities of his body provoking me to mark each and every one with marks that could become darker for the next morning. He was mine. Changkyun was mine for the night.

I only love you when you don't love me

Oh, baby, so, why do you love me?

His hands pulled the wings off my back in a slow and torturous manner causing the air to get stuck in my lungs with no escape. His lips went to my collarbones making me separate from him. His tongue began to trace the exposed skin smiling on the way. With his hands, he slipped the straps over my shoulders to drag the dress to my lower body. That's when I leaned on the bed with my feet pushing my hips up so he could finish pulling the garment out.

He smiled at the sight and stood on his knees on either side of my waist to remove his shirt. Every button he undoes means one more step towards one of my deepest fantasies. His torso was exposed, with only his chain resting lazily on his torso. His marked abdomen prompted me to run my tongue over it to taste his sweet flesh and be ecstatic about the ragweed.

I sat up on my elbows looking at the belt that clung to his pants, asking permission with my eyes to help him with that task. Changkyun took the hint and laid down beside me, letting out a gasp. I smiled as it dawned on me that we were at the edge of the cliff, but if it was with him, I would give it my all.

I sat on his lap, feeling his bulge against my core. I gasped at the sensation and made my way to unbuckle the black belt with the silver buckle. I removed the garment in two moves and now, I needed to unbutton his pants. I ran my tongue over my lower lip, directing my hands at a slow speed to tempt his patience, which did not seem to last long. The boy raised his hip to me, grunting underneath.

“What's the matter, kitty, do you want me to help you with your torturous pain?" I asked in a voice that was as if in velvet as I squeezed the right places to make him delirious. “Learn how to beg, darling.”

My index finger began to sway over the boy's covered member, which drove him crazy. He looked at me with his lust filled eyes. “Do it. Please.”

He mumbled that last word, more against his will. With a smile, I removed the button from his leather jeans, dragging the cloth down his thighs. Then I stared at his underwear with a hungry look. The boy noticed my glance and with one movement I was at his mercy again under his body.

“Well played, angel, but in this game you must learn who is in charge," his voice so damned hoarse made my body eager with the sound. The boy took off my bra with one hand, looking agitated. My head dropped back quickly at the sensations. My center began to vibrate with the music in the background.

Without being able to wait a second longer, he removed my underwear by tapping the middle finger of his left hand on my bundle of nerves.

“God..." I hissed at the feeling of that digit, groping on forbidden ground.

The boy smiled as he took off his only remaining cloth, positioning himself on me. We looked at each other for a minute. A long minute, where I could read his eyes. Pure, raw lust.

His member was slowly and pleasantly buried inside me. My hip was raised by the reflection, making me take a big breath of air. I was not a virgin but, it had been so long and the sensation was new and delirious.

“Welcome to hell, little angel," he whispered as he began his deep pounds on me. My face broke into pure moaning and unexplained sounds as I enjoyed the sensation produced by her touch.

The moment reached its peak, approaching with a great electric shock that ran from the tips of my feet to the surface of my head. We both came in unison, creating an exquisite harmony to the contrast of his deep voice and mine. Our gasping and gasping breaths spoke for themselves. Our glances spoke what our mouths couldn't. The connection we created in that instant was so strong and powerful that I thought it would fade. The red light around us fell in a minute, leaving us in darkness. The smell of liquor and sex surrounded us without shame.

In the face of that darkness. The boy came out of me causing one last tremor. And that was the sign. I crawled to my clothes strewn over the arms of the sofa, pulling a knife from the wings of my costume.

I'm fucking crazy, you're fucking crazy, we're all fucking crazy;

I held my breath for a minute.

And then, exhaled hard.

I couldn't see anything at all, and that made everything strangely interesting. I gasped away, crawling to the edge of the sofa where the light was slightly off. And then I saw him.

I noticed how his skin glowed with sweat and his eyes darkened. The light coming in from the window helped me to identify his eyes. His torso was still naked but the bottom was on the dark side of the sofa.

“Pity angel, you decided to be seduced by the ideas of living in a world of lies.”

I drew my knife dangerously close to his naked abdomen. His breathing became faster and his heart began to beat erratically. The metal device I held in my hands began to trace his chest slowly, delineating his skin, his outline. The boy looked at me, some kind of mix between horror and pleasure on his features. Happy in how the game had turned out, I took his jaw with my free hand looking directly at him. A smile spread across my face and I instantly noticed the boy's eyes opening wide, looking up at me, like begging for mercy.

I began to apply more pressure on his chest by opening a slight cut. The air got stuck in my throat, forcing me to continue.

“Only then will we set you free. Kill the leader of the snake clan. Kill Changkyun. It's an easy job, don't you think?"

I closed my eyes trying to make the seekers boss' voice disappear from my ears. My jaw clenched tightly as I struggled with my subconscious about the real right decision.

“Please...” his voice came out in a thread of voice as I felt the burning in his chest, but maybe not because of the physical wound but because of the wound in his heart.

“Oh no," I said with a smile, denying in the process. “No. Your glory days are over, kitty.” I took the impulse, and then, to add more drama to the matter, I asked. “Your last words, Changkyun?

Great was my surprise to see him looking much darker than ever before. With a confused look on my part, I heard him say. “Do you know what they say at the end of every game?”

I jumped up and down as I felt his hand grab my wrist. He dropped me on the arm of the sofa using my own hand, now in the opposite direction, showing the edge to me. With a serious and firm look, he approached my ear whispering the words that were about to dictate my death.

“I knew you wouldn’t be brave enough. It’s time to say game over… (Y/N)”

[wickedgamesoyaoya]

Was it appropriate to long for someone who loved another?

The question was one that Iwaizumi refused to acknowledge for the last six years, after Oikawa questioned the trainer’s feelings for their mutual friend. The conversation bloomed the night of your two-year anniversary with the younger Miya twin. It was quite difficult to miss the dozens of photographs uploaded to your social media, broadcasting the romantic evening that was planned. Soon his entire feed became only…you.

The former captain raised an eyebrow curiously at his friend, who was battling several emotions that were threatening to contort his features. It was not fate that brought Oikawa Tooru to his best friend’s side that evening. Rather, the decision to invite Iwaizumi for drinks on that particular date was a calculated choice. There were some questions that were nagging at him, ones that demanded answers before he departed from his home country.

“You didn’t think they would last this long, did you?” The inquiry was hummed out in amusement as he trailed a finger along the rim of the glass planted ahead of him. From the side of his eye, he noticed Iwaizumi shift uncomfortably in his seat.

“It’s good. We wanted her to be happy, and she is. So, it’s a good thing they lasted this long.” His words lacked an earnest vigour, and not even the straightest composure could sell the packaged response as the truth.

“Hmm. Oh, Iwa-chan. When will you be honest with me?” Exhaling a weighed sigh, Oikawa shook his head before taking a swing of the liquor. Or at least, when would he be honest with himself?

“What are you blabbering about now, Shittykawa?” The narrowing of his eyelids into slits was meant to resonate a sense of anger, or at minimum irritation. Yet, it was fear that was burning bright in his irises.

“Is it really appropriate to long for someone who is in love with another?” It was a dangerous question to be spewing, Oikawa knew the insinuations laying at the foundation were sure to provoke some dormant emotions. And so, when sorrow forced the other male to flicker his gaze to the opposite direction, the former captain blew out a low hum in understanding.

“I don’t long for her, you idiot,” After swallowing the lump in his throat, he attempted to brush off the comment, rather unsuccessfully. While Oikawa found his friend’s first protest to be a blatant lie, what followed next was enough to cause him to drop his face onto his palm. “She’s like a little sister to me.”

Despite Iwaizumi’s desire to present the admission as factual, calling you his little sister returned the crawling sensation that was prompted earlier to return to his skin; and he had to ponder whether the bitter taste in his mouth was from the liquor or from the deceit dripping from his lips.

“Iwa-chan, you know what they say. Denial is the first stage.” The humorous comment was accompanied by a gentle laugh. While his questions were completely shut down; the physical reactions that his inquiries elicited was enough to confirm his suspicions.

Unrequited love was tragic; but what made the circumstances substantially worse was that it began with mutual love. The only issue was that neither party dared to cross the boundaries between friendship and relationship, afraid to lose the other in the process.

“Shut up.” Neither boy was convinced or impacted by the half-hearted demand, rather it was silently understood that its sole purpose was to fill the empty space that was left for a confession that would not come.

However, the conversation laid a layer of bricks on Iwaizumi’s shoulders, shackling him to the truth he was desperately avoiding. It comes as no surprise that for the remainder of the evening, he could not muster the courage to scroll through any of his social media. For if he did, the action would be admitting something he promised to always keep buried.  

Tonight, the question returned to the forefront of his thoughts, mocking him for a weakness he despised himself for possessing. But it was not longing that was behind the uneasiness bordering nausea flooding him. No – it was the thought of what could have been.

What if he said something? What if you did? Would you have been happier – not knowing the one who was the cause of your broken heart? Or would he have stolen from you a happiness that you could never receive with him?  

Sinking his face into his palms, he clenched his eyelids shut, aiming to shove aside the haunting thoughts. He remained in the crouched position for twenty minutes, unable to gather the energy to adjust his posture until he heard slight stirring from the bed ahead of him.

“Akari?” From under the duvet, you raised a hand to beckon for your sister who was coincidentally, not in the bedroom at the moment. The impact of the alcohol had worn off considerably by now, leaving only an irksome strain in your temples.

“She’s downstairs.” The trainer debated internally whether to approach you or not, and upon hearing the little groan that was offered in response, he opted to wait before abandoning his post. “How are you feeling?” Resting his arms along his thighs, he laced his fingers together, stretching them anxiously on either side.

A verbal response did not immediately follow his line of questioning. As you raised to a seating position on the bed, your gaze dropped to the stuffed animal that was snug against your side. Your memories of what transpired earlier in the evening was lagging, returning to you at a slow rate that was highly antagonizing. Though, the pieces that you did remember were the ones involving your best friend whose gaze you could not meet. Maybe if you were younger, still justifying your decisions with the motto of no regrets, it would have been an easier task. But you knew what was said tonight was dangerously careless.

“Tired.” Whispering the response, you brought the plushie to your lap, gently brushing your fingers against the fur. While you did remember the accidental damage, your intoxicated state inflicted on your friendship; you did not remember how you came to possess the toy within your grasp.

“Do you remember anything?” Iwaizumi prodded, testing whether it was appropriate to initiate the conversation you were dreading to have.

“Pieces.” This time you responded promptly; emotion devoid in your mumbled response. “Though, I don’t remember asking Bo to get this little baby, so I guess I saw him?” You aimed to spit the final word of the sentence with venom, and yet it spilled from your lips, coated with a hint of fondness, rather than disgust – something that Iwaizumi caught on, twinging the spear planted inside of his chest.

“You did.” Ignoring the discomfort stretching along his torso, he forcefully stabilized his breathing, drawing longer and heavier breaths through his nose. He didn’t know what was expected of him now. His role in your life had always been one of a protector – but now, with the truth exposed as an open wound, what could he do? What should he do?

“I thought so. I was hoping that part was a dream.” Chewing on the inside of your cheek, a humourless melody was blown out. While you were unable to recall what the conversation was, an image of your fiancé had projected inside of your mind. In the memory he wore his vulnerability openly for you, and you despised how it made you want to comfort him. How you wanted to claim his pain as your own, even though your own heart was suffering from the pain he inflicted on it.

“Why didn’t you answer me? I could have been there for you. If it’s about what you said…” With his throat constricting, he was unable to complete the sentence. But you were quick to fill the silence, aiming to end the conversation before it could develop further.

“I wasn’t thinking straight, Hajime. Just ignore what I said, okay.” You couldn’t do this. Not right now. Not when your heart was already breaking from your last love – it would not survive additional pain from your first one.  

“What if I don’t want to ignore it?” He did not intend to push the topic forward without your consent, but the question left his mouth before he could bite his tongue. Despite being regarded as the one who held a considerable amount of control of emotions, his resolve to remain in control weakened with each passing second.

“Why? So, you can tell me that you didn’t feel the same way? That you’re sorry? Because if that’s what you’re doing to say, please don’t. I don’t think I can handle it.” Drawing in a deep breath, you tipped your head up, fixing your attention on the ceiling, hoping the liquid hanging on your lashes would not depart. “And if you’re going to tell me that I was wrong, that you did see me that way…What’s the point now?” Sinking your teeth into your bottom lip, your eyelids fluttered shut, granting the tears full reign over your cheeks. “You didn’t tell me it when it would have made a difference.”

The sight of you falling apart filled him with dread. How could he despise the younger Miya twin for his idiotic behaviour when he too caused you similar hurt? How could he have been so damn oblivious?

The only difference between him and Osamu, was that he didn’t care for his own pain. He didn’t desire your pity or sympathy. He wanted your happiness.

The distance between you two could no longer be tolerated. He quickly rose to his feet, making his way to the mattress, before guiding you into his arms. When you were in his embrace, you slowly placed your arms around his middle limply. 

“I’m sorry, y/n.” What he was apologizing did not have to be stated, you knew what it was and that was enough.

Because you were sorry too… for what could have been, and what had been lost.

Let’s do it again, shall we - what if 

Masterlist - Previous - Next

A/N: no one kill me, LMAO. 

taglist: @idiot-juice-enthusiast @vicassa  @yourstarvic @bringmelily @newfriendjen @hikarichannn @anime-simp @tsukkismamagucci @laughingismorefun @astronomyturtle @shegrewupwithoutafather @hyskoa1998 @deephumandragonperson @pretty-setter-bois @raenebalgaire @sugawarabby @justanotherfangirl2 @keijisworld @90s-belladonna @momoinot @sempiternal-amour @cherryblosom111 @yqshirov @haikyuufairy @volleybloop @bloody-bella @sadkaashistan @seikamuzu @namyari  @toaster-stick @coconut-dreamz @roseestuosity @prcttylittlcthing @uzumakioden @nerdynstoned @kenmasgameboy @kaiju-teeth @ouijaeater15 @aquariarose @fandomtrashpandasposts @helloalex80​ @stfucanunot @envyusshades @cuddlesslut @seijohiseliterambles​  @meiikuki @cuddlejeongin @tchalameme @ditu-m9​ @elianetsantana​ 

Taglist continued in the comments from my personal  ❣️

[sasarahsunshine]

Congratulations on 200 Sarah!!! So exciting and well deserved 💕💕💕

I'd love a little HotchReid 📝- #12, "I can't stop thinking about you."

I would ask for a 💖 but I only have a handful posted and half are WIP snippets 😂 but know we're moots and I send all my love. Congrats again dear

Hello, anon! You can always send me a 💖 in the future if you want me to read your fics and pick my favorite 🥰 I’m sure I’ll love them all!!

Pairing: Aaron Hotchner/Spencer Reid

Warnings: None! All fluff! Well, and a moment of smutty thoughts lol.

Also read on AO3

He wasn't sure when it started. When his feelings had shifted to something stronger than them just being colleagues. Of being friends. It was subtle over time, how he'd find himself looking for the younger man's figure every time he walked into a room. Whether at their own office in Quantico or in some precinct across the country, his eyes would always land on Dr. Spencer Reid. Always following his movements and learning his mannerisms.

He found himself listening to their resident genius more. And not just humoring his rants and ramblings, but actually digesting the words that were being excitedly spoken from him, his nimble hands waving around to emphasize his points. He found himself enraptured in the way Spencer's lips moved, his tongue wetting them when he paused, his cheeks rosy and eyes shimmering with amazement for the topic at hand. He studied the way Spencer's hair curled, how strands of it always seemed to fall in his face no matter how often he would try to tuck them behind his ear. He memorized the sharpness of Spencer's jaw, his high cheekbones, the way his eyebrows would knit together when he was deep in thought.

Aaron Hotchner wasn't sure when it started, but he could pinpoint the moment he realized he had fallen in love with his subordinate, Spencer Reid. The moment his mind put the pieces of this puzzle of feelings together, his eyes growing comically large as he stared at Spencer sitting cross-legged on the table in the conference room, files and photos spread around him. Spencer's long legs were just too long for his pants as they rode up enough to show his signature mismatched socks. On his left were patterns of whales and dolphins, and on the right was a brightly colored array of rainbows.

Aaron found himself smiling, leaning against the door jamb, his arms crossed over his chest. Heat was rising from his stomach and blossoming across his chest, up his neck, and settling on his face. He was certain he looked redder than a sunburnt tomato, as Sean would so helpfully put it.

In the silence of the room, Spencer's fingers gliding down a page of a file balanced on his knee, his eyes flickered up to meet Aaron's gaze. He paused, blinking once, twice, before breaking into a shy smile, "Hey, Hotch. Sorry, do you want me off the table?"

Aaron shook his head, closing his eyes for a moment to compose himself. He couldn't allow his feelings to be known, not like this. Or maybe not ever. Spencer was 10 years his junior, not to mention, again, his subordinate. He would have to keep a lock and key on this realization of his. "No, Reid, you're fine. I just saw the light on and came to see who was still here."

"You're still here," Spencer pointed at him with a pen, smiling. "So I thought it was fine for me to stay a little longer."

"Of course," Aaron walked into the room, glancing down at the paperwork to see what exactly Spencer was working on. "The Johnson case?"

"Yeah." Spencer sat up, his back cracking as he straightened his posture. He set the pen down and moved the paper around, finding a photo and pointing to it, "I know we already finished the paperwork for it, but I was remembering something about the photo taken of her room. I just needed to make sure we didn't miss anything before I could sleep tonight."

Aaron was, once again, watching Spencer's lips as he spoke. There was something so delicate about them, how he chewed on his bottom lip until it was swollen and pink. Pretty. There was a reason Morgan called him Pretty Boy, after all. Aaron wondered what Spencer's lips tasted like, and what sounds they would make if he were to push him against the conference table right now, pressing their bodies together. What did Spencer sound like when he gasped? How would his lips look as they shaped the words, "please, more," in a needing whisper?

Spencer had been talking still, stopping only to glance at Aaron again and arch an eyebrow curiously. His lips formed a small frown, "Hotch?"

"Hmm?" Aaron met his gaze, realizing too late that he had zoned out this time. Which was new. Usually, he was enchanted by the sound of Spencer's voice and would listen without issue, but this time he was so focused on his lips...

He cleared his throat, feeling the flush on his face grow tenfold. Spencer was profiling him, he knew. He debated on asking him not to, but it was too late. He could already see the gears turning behind the genius's eyes, Spencer's mouth opening in a small 'o' as his own cheeks tinted red. He, too, cleared his throat.

Aaron sighed, his shoulders tense, "I um, sorry, Reid. I just," he paused, licking his bottom lip in thought. It didn't escape his notice that Spencer watched him do so. After a beat, he decided to just come clean. "I can't stop thinking about you."

It took a moment, the silence almost deafening, before Spencer spoke, his mouth quirking into a small, giddy grin. "Really?"

Aaron nodded, feeling his body stiffen a little. He couldn't gauge Spencer's reaction, not without those images still plaguing his mind.

"Good," Spencer nodded slowly, his eyes lighting up. "Good, because I can't stop thinking about you either."

~~~~~~

Taglist: @ssa-natalya-reid @hotchshoney @ssahotchswife @goobzoop @louisaland @katexrichardson

[oboevallis]

i hate you

not sure if this makes any sense, but i felt the need to post something since it’s been a hot minute, i hope everyone’s doing well and staying safe

“I hate you!” It was the last thing Amelia heard as her nephew slammed his bedroom door in her face. She knew she had to reprimand him but didn’t have the willpower to do so; Bailey was just a kid learning how to process emotions. She sighed and walked into her bedroom to cuddle her son, the only kid in the house who still seems to love her. The girls were just as indifferent towards her as Bailey was; the boy just didn’t suppress it.

“Auntie Amelia!” Zola rapped on the door, causing her aunt to sigh.

“Come in!”

“Are you aware Bailey is running away?” Zola asked matter of factly.

“Yep, he mentioned that.” A fight had erupted over him not wanted to join his Zoom class. Amelia knew there was more going on in his head, but her temper got the better of her, and he screamed at her to inform her that he was going to run away.

“You're the adult here! Make him stop!” Since Meredith had gone on the vent, Zola needed everyone to stay in the same place.

“He’s not going to run away.” Amelia chuckled lightly; standing up, grabbing the wrap to wrap her son around her tightly.

“He’s packing a bag!”

“I know, don’t worry about it, sweetheart. He’s not actually going to run away.”

“Well, when he runs away, don’t come crying to me.” Amelia tried to contain her laugh; that was a phrase Meredith would always use when advising the kids not to do something but did anyways. Zola left the room with a defiant huff, and Amelia waited until she heard a thumping on the stairs indicating Bailey's suitcase dragging on the hardwood steps

“Don’t follow me!” Bailey yelled, turning around when he noticed his aunt at the top of the stairs.

“I’m not, just getting a glass of water,” Amelia concluded as she trekked down the stairs supporting the baby’s back. Bailey entered the kitchen, shoving granola bars into his suitcase, glaring at his aunt whenever they locked eye contact.

“I’m leaving,” Bailey announced once he grabbed a water bottle.

“Alrighty then.” Amelia nodded as she paced around to keep her son from fussing. Bailey defiantly turned around and exited through the front door. The woman made her way to the front window to watch the boy walk down the driveway.

“What are we looking at?” Link asked, placing his hand on her lower back. “Is bailey running away?” His voice panicked, realizing the boy had a suitcase, making his way to the door, but was stopped when Amelia grabbed his arm.

“Don't.”

“Babe, he’s running away! We can just let him leave! He’s a kid!”

“Shh. Watch.” She pointed to the boy who turned around and hesitated mid driveway, making his way towards the big tree in the front yard and climbed up it.

“Oh.” Link sighed in relief.

“Just let him cool off, keep an eye on him, though.”

________________________________________

“He’s been in that tree all day.” Link said, astonished as he watched him from his spot on the couch. “He can barely sit still for an hour.” All-day, the two adults, took shifts watching the boy in the tree to assure no one took him or he ran off. “Shouldn’t we go get him? The sun is going down.”

“I’ll get him,” Amelia assured as she took the plate they set him aside out of the microwave. She slipped out the front door, and headed down the driveway. “Gosh, I’ve been worried about Bailey all day. He barely touched his breakfast, and he missed two meals. I hope he didn’t get hurt, traveling all on his own.” She could see Bailey from the corner of her eye, who was debating whether or not he should come down.

“I’m up here.” Bailey huffed; he wanted to stand his ground but couldn’t deny he was hungry for something other than granola bars.

“Oh, thank goodness! I’ve been worried about you all day!” The woman walked under the tree and looked up at her nephew.

“I don’t care.”

“Want your dinner?” She held the plate up, showing him it was his favorite meal; Bailey seemed to consider this and eventually climbed down the tree.

“Did you make this or Uncle Link?”

“I did.” Amelia smiled, passing the plate to him.

“Oh, no thanks.”

“What? It’s your favorite! Spaghetti and meatballs!”

“Not when you make it.” Bailey moved to climb up the tree again.

“Bailey, wait.” The boy turned around, crossing his arms. “Can we talk?”

“No.”

The woman sighed, sitting down to lean against the tree’s trunk.

“You know, when I was a kid, I ran away a lot.”

“You did?” The boy asked, surprised by his aunt’s confession.

“I would do what you did, except we had this treehouse that your dad helped build that I hid in.” Which wasn't entirely a lie, but when she was a teenager, she’d usually go somewhere to score.

“Who helped my dad build it?”

“Our dad, so your grandfather.” The two sat in silence for a while before Amelia realized what had upset her nephew. “After our dad died, Derek kinda stepped into his place. And I’d always get really upset cause it felt like he was trying to replace our dad. I eventually realized that he wasn’t trying to replace him. He was trying to help a little bit.”

“Hmm.” Bailey huffed, playing with a twig from the tree.

“I’m not trying to replace your mom, Bailey. I’m just trying to make sure you and your sisters are cared for and as happy as you can be. I love you guys so so so much, and I know how much your hurting, but you’ve gotta let me help.”

“Okay.” Bailey slowly nodded.

“Okay.” Amelia smiled, wrapping her arms tighter around the boy.

“I’m sorry. I was just- I miss my mom, and you do the things she does and I don’t like that, but am I gonna have to make up school?”

“I understand.” She held on the younger boys hand. “I’ll try to back off a bit, but I just want you to know I love you and your sisters so so much. And so does your mom, all she wants is for you to be happy and healthy and cared for. But yeah your gonna have to make school up.”The older woman chuckled, then picking up the forgotten plate of spaghetti. “Now let’s go get you another plate.” She gently patted the boys back signaling him to get up.

“I love you auntie Amelia.” Bailey smiled before he ran into the house.

________________________________________

“How’d you do that today?” Link asked as his girlfriend got settled on his chest.

“Do what?”

“With Bailey, you just knew he wasn’t gonna run away. I was freaking out when I saw him walking down the driveway with his suitcase.”

“I was Bailey. I was the angry kid who missed their parent so much.”

“Your gonna think I’m a terrible person if I say this.”

“I could never think that.” Amelia gave a reassuring smile.

“I need Meredith to get better. I love those kids, I really do, but-“

“They’re a lot.” The neurosurgeon finished.

“Yeah.” Link nodded in agreement. “They’re a lot. Baileys okay though, right?”

“He will be.” Amelia nodded,tracing her fingers over the mans chest. “I think what’s killing them is not being able to talk to her, they’re used to not seeing her often, between her work and their school, but they always got to talk to her on the phone before bedtime and between surgeries. But they can’t even have that now.”

“She’s gonna get better.” Link affirmed, needing it to be true. A knock on the door jarring them from their bubble.

“Auntie Amelia?” Ellis opened the door to reveal her teary face.

“Have a bad dream?” Amelia asked holding out her arms for the girl.

“Yeah.” Ellis squeaked out, climbing into the bed cuddling into her aunt.

“It was just a dream.” Amelia reassured, stroking the girls hair, starting to drift off herself. Ten minutes had gone by and Ellis was put cold.

“Imma go put her to bed.” Link whispered.

“No let her sleep in here, just for the night. She came to me; she’s been hating me for the last few days.”

“Babe, she's so tiny but she’s taking up half the bed.” Link gestured to the girl who was sprawled out on the bed, inching him off of it.

“Just for the night.”

“Just for the night.” Link smiled, running his hand on his nieces back.

“We should get one of these.”

“Scout’s barely five months old.” Amelia chuckled sleepily, struggling to stay awake.

“What about when Scout isn’t five months old anymore.”

“We’ll talk about it when it comes.” The neurosurgeon assured. “Now can we go to sleep?”

“We can go to sleep.” Link sighed in content as he watched his girlfriend succumbs to sleep.

______________________________________

“Oh.” Link sighed as he walked into their bedroom, to be met with his girlfriend and niece already fast asleep. It had been a week since Ellis had infiltrated their bed. He carefully lifted up the girl, jerking her awake, causing her to protest.

“No! I wanna sleep in here!”

“Link what are you doing?” Amelia groggily asked her boyfriend.

“Putting her in her bed.”

“No!” Ellis refused starting to kick her uncle.

“Ow!” Link groaned placing the girl back in the bed.

“Ellis you can’t kick.” Amelia reprimanded. “And you’ve gotta keep your voice down, you’re gonna wake up the baby.”

“It’s always about Scout!” Ellis yelled, running out of the room in tears. “No one loves me!”

“See what you did?” Amelia groaned, lifting herself out of bed.

“What! It was getting ridiculous, she’s way too old to be sleeping in our bed.”

“She’s six!”

“Amelia, have you realized I’ve been sleeping on the floor? She’s taking up the whole bed, even you are halfway off of it. And whens the last time we were able to have sex?”

“There it is, you just want sex.”

“No! That’s not what I meant.” He ran a stressful hand through his hair.

“I’m gonna go check on Ellis.” Amelia groaned, lifting herself up out of the bed. She quietly made her way to the younger girls room, to find it empty. Then she opened Zola’s door to find Ellis crying in her sisters arms, and Zola glaring at her aunt. “Babe, I’m sorry.” Amelia sat on the opposite side of the girl trying to console her, but was pushed away.

“I hate uncle Link.” Ellis informed her aunt, burying her face into her sisters chest.

“I’m really sorry, he’s just stressed. He’s not used to a kid crawling in bed with him, he’s never really been around kids before.”

“Mommy lets me sleep with her.”

“I know she does.” Amelia nodded, running her hand through the girls hair. “And I know you miss her, and she misses you kids soooooooo much.”

“When will she be home?”

“Soon, I hope. I know she’s fighting really hard.” Amelia sadly smiled, hoping what she was saying was true. “And I’m sorry if Link and I have been so busy with Scout, but babies need lots and lots of attention. I promise we didn’t forget about you, we both love you so much. Everyone here does, Zola, Bailey, Auntie Maggie, and your mom.”

“Yeah.” Zola agreed, adding her own insight. “I remember when you were a baby, and mommy had to spend so much time with you. So Bailey and I were kinda lonely, but Auntie Amelia was there. Mommy always makes sure we’re take care of so Uncle Link and Auntie Amelia are trying their best.”

“I’m sorry.” Ellis whispered.

“It’s okay, but you can’t throw a tantrum and kick and say mean things that’s not gonna help.”

“I really am sorry, I’ll apologize to uncle Link tomorrow when I’m not mad.” Ellis apologized once again as the neurosurgeon pulled the girl to lean on her chest. Zola moved herself in on the hug. “Thank you Zozo.” Amelia whispered.

Zola smiled up to her aunt, proud that someone recognized how good of a big sister she was.

________________________________________

“Amelia, I’m so sor-“ Link sat up immediately, having sat in their room feeling guiltily.

“It’s okay.” Amelia smiled, sitting in the bed next to him. “You’re hurting.”

“I- I’m just not used to so many kids all of the time. And I don’t get kids like you do, you just know everything and the extent of my capabilities are making Mac and cheese and being the fun guy.”

“I know, And this is new for you. You’ll catch on, and your not failing as being a dad and an uncle, because I know that’s what your trying to apply.”

“I really am sorry. Is Ellis okay.”

“Well, she hates you. But I think she’ll get over it if you push her on the swings tomorrow.” Amelia smirked.

“Wait she actually hates me?” Link asked, feeling his heart drop.

“Yeah, for right now at least.” Amelia laughed blatantly at his shocked look. “You have lots to learn about kids, she doesn’t actually hate you, she’s just upset and that’s how she’s processing it. You aren’t ready for the amount of times Scout’s gonna say he hates us.”

“Really?”

“Really.” Amelia pouted, before embracing her boyfriend in a hug.

[solarwindswriting]

Oh, The Places You’ll Go

Chapter 6

First Chapter / Previous Chapter / Next Chapter

Loosely inspired by the song Greek Tragedy by the Wombats

Pairing: Scotty x FemalePresenting!Reader

Word Count: 1802

Summary: Y/n and Scotty get to know each other better over a late night cup of tea.

Warnings: none that I can think of

A/N: I mentioned it in a separate post, but something came up recently that has taken my will to write fluff like this right out of me. So sorry, but since this is the last prewritten part I have, I’m going to take a bit of a break. Thank you guys for understanding!

Tags: @mournthewicked @damalseer​

Scotty had finished his prep for the away mission after his break with Y/n, Sara, and Keenser. That was the first time in about 10 years since he’s danced, let alone with someone else. It took him twice as long to finish preparing as he got lost in his thoughts. How Y/n’s hands held so tight to his, or how her hips swayed to the music, or how laughter fell from her lips like the song of fairies on the Scottish hillside. Scotty shook his head as he walked into the mess hall. Grabbing a tray, he looked around the room to see who was there. He saw Y/n sitting with a group of the younger crew, he’d hate to be the oldest one sitting there. He finally saw Spock and Bones eating at a table in the corner. On his way, he hears Y/n say something rather enthusiastically.

“Fine! Yes, I like Lieutenant Commander Montgomery Scott in an unprofessional way.” she laughs.

He makes eye contact with Sara who was facing him, Y/n soon turning to see him as well. Y/n jumps up and leaves before he can say anything. Sara follows her soon after stopping in front of him.

Sara’s mouth opens and closes a couple of times, trying to find the right words. “If what I saw earlier is true, you need to tell her.”

His brow still stitched together, he sits with Bones and Spock.

“Oh, good. Someone who can settle this debate...” Bones starts.

Scotty mindlessly eats his food as the two commanders continue to debate about whether a certain civilization is ready for the first contact or not. He finishes his food about 30 minutes later, getting up to leave.

“Woah, Scotty, you’re not even going to add a story about your grandmother?” Bones asks.

“Ah, not tonight, gotta prepare for tomorrow,” he lies, leaving the mess hall without another word.

Scotty goes to deck 5 to go to bed. But before he realized it, he’s knocking on someone's door.

***

Y/n opens the door, shocked to see Scotty standing there, bright red cheeks and all.

“Um, can I help you?” Y/n squeaks out, pulling the robe tightly around her body.

“Ay, lassie, can I come in?” He asks with a slight cough coming up.

“It’s sort of late, shouldn’t you be in bed?” She starts. “We have a pretty big mission tomorrow, after all.”

“ I couldn’t help but overhear what you said in the mess hall and thought I ought to come to talk to you,” Scotty almost whispers, looking at the ground.

“No need. I know you don’t feel that same. I’m fine with leaving it at that. Have a goodnight, Lieutenant Commander.” Y/n steps back to close the door, when Scotty sticks out his foot, preventing it from doing so.

“Lassie, will you just listen for just a minute?” He looks at her in the eyes finally.

She steps to the side, lifting her arm, motioning for him to come in. He looks around her personal quarters. Shelves littered with nick nacks from all over the galaxy, and books with worn spines in languages he couldn’t recognize.

“Can I get you anything? Tea? A beer?” She asks, walking to her replicator.

“Tea sounds nice,” he mutters, looking around still.

On the wall hung four certificates; two bachelors in biology and physics, certification in the handling of hazardous material, and training for command of a ship. He walks up to the mall table with two chairs and takes a seat. On the table sat a bowl of fruit and a framed photo of younger-looking y/n, and Sara, an older woman that looks shockingly like Y/n except with completely black iris’, and a dog at what looks like a fair.

Y/n sets a mug in front of Scotty, and peers at the photo. Scotty notices how her hand shakes as she sets down the mug.

“That was from my first year in the academy, back when I thought I was going to be a captain of my very own starship,” Y/n hums to herself, shaking her head side to side softly, taking a seat across from Scotty. “So, go ahead, you have a minute.”

“You have a dog?” Scotty procrastinates the topic as long as he can.

“Yeah, he belongs to my mom. Full bred German Shepard. Why she insisted he be full-bred, I’ll never know. He’s the dumbest creature in all the galaxy though.” She pauses before continuing, “You’re deflecting.”

Scotty takes a deep breath and sips from his mug before starting. “Now, lassie, I’ve been doing this job a very long time. And I threw myself even deeper into it once I thought I’d never find someone to spend my spare time with. I even tried a few times, getting out there and doing the whole dating thing. With this line of work though, there were times when I simply couldn’t be there like I should have been and I hurt those I care deeply about. But I’ve got to be honest with ye, I canne stop thinking about you. And I truly thought myself selfish. You’re so much younger than me, you see. I assumed you’d never think the same of me, some old man who works in engineering. But then we started to have tea most evenings, and I let myself lean into getting to know you, which just made things worse for me.” Scotty chuckles, sipping from the mug, looking anywhere but Y/n.

Y/n noted how his words became thicker with his accent the longer we went on and how he said that all in seemingly one breath. She didn’t know how to respond, that was the last thing she had expected him to say. So she stayed silent, sipping from her mug, waiting to see if he had anything left to say.

“Wait, you were training to become a captain? Well, that explains the odd Starfleet insignia you wear.” Scotty chuckles looking at the woman he was pretending he didn’t just admit his feelings to.

Y/n looks at him confused, shaken by his sudden shift in demeanor and topic.

“I um, yes. But I don’t see how that pertains to what we’re talking about,” she looks at him, head tilting and eyebrows stitching together.

Y/n, quite frankly, didn’t know what to say. She just looks at him for a good long while.

“Should I go, lassie?” Scotty starts to stand up.

Y/n stands, letting go of her death grip on her robe, and grabs his hand.

“You’re much better with words than I am, Montgomery. And I think you think I’m much younger than I am,” her words come out rushed, almost as quickly as her heart is beating.

“How old are you?” Not until now does he realize he never found out her age.

“I’m 29,” she chuckles.

“Really? I wouldn’t have guessed a day over 24,” Scotty speaks, almost shocked.

“I’ll take that as a compliment,” Y/n chuckles out before looking up at him with hope filled eyes. “Does that mean you’ll stay and finish your tea?”

Scotty smiles and sits back down, “I’ll stay as long as you’d like, Y/n.”

“I think that unwise, Lieutenant Commander. We do still have a mission to attend to tomorrow.” She chuckles out, sitting back down, herself.

Only now did Scotty notice her robe had fallen open to reveal a strawberry speckled nightie. Shifting slightly in his seat, he averts his gaze, sipping from his cup, and notices something interesting in the photo.

“Oh! I’m sorry, should I go change?” Y/n asks, slightly uncomfortably.

“No, no, it’s fine, lass.” He hums, reaching for the photo to take a closer look.

He squints at the ruby ring on Y/n’s left hand in the photo.

“Were you once married, Y/n?” Scotty asks inquiringly.

Y/n chokes on her tea, coughing to catch her breath. That’s not a question someone had asked her in a long time.

“Um, almost,” she coughs, still clearing out her throat.

“What happened?” He looks to his right, so he can make eye contact with her.

“She, um, wasn’t a very good person and I wasn’t doing great when I was with her. Took me almost getting married and dozens of people telling us we were too young to finally realize it though.” Y/n sighs, finishing her tea and placing the mug in the little sink.

“Ah, I see,” Scotty responds, setting the picture down. “Sorry, for asking.”

“No, it’s fine. I should expect people to ask when I have a photo of me wearing an engagement ring for everyone to see.” She says, sitting down on the edge of her bed.

Scotty stands up with his mug, walking to one of the shelves filled with books, and scans the spines. He likes to think of himself as a reader, but he never reads things in different languages. He barely knew other earth languages, not to mention any alien ones. Sure, he picked up a few phrases, but that was it. He notices how many series of books there were among the singles. He reaches for a thin book that was in English as he sips his tea. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austin. He looks over his shoulder as Y/n, eyebrow raised. Y/n was now leaned up against the wall her bed was propped against, legs crossed, robe discarded, and blanket on her lap.

“Isn’t this book for young girls and hopeless romantics?” Scotty questions, sliding the book back into its place on the shelf.

“Until a few moments ago, you thought I was both,” she chuckles.

Scotty finished his tea, placing the mug into the sink like Y/n had done just a minute before.

“I should probably leave. We have a big day tomorrow lassie.” Scotty turns to Y/n.

Y/n stands and follows Scotty to the door. He turns around before opening the door and sees she didn’t put her robe back on. He willed himself to look at only her face. She leaned in, placing her hands on his shoulder, and kiss’ him on the cheek. Before she can pull away, he gently places his hand on her lower back, pulling her in for a kiss on the lips.

Time seems to stop for only a moment. The only thing in the galaxy that mattered to him was her in this moment. Y/n, with her soft lips, her silky nighty, and her soft grip on his shoulders. The moment ended just as quickly as it had started.

“Goodnight, lassie,” He smiles, still holding her close.

“Goodnight, Monty,” Y/n breaths out before stepping away from him.

I made a Spotify playlist to go along with the story since I use music a good bit. There will be music from unpublished chapters though. So listen at your own risk.

[todokanai-suishou]

April 7th

Pairing Hoseok x Reader

Genre: Fluff

WC: 2,5k

Quality: Not yet golden Raspberry, but definitely rotten Tomato worthy

A/N: "April 7th, but it's longer now" finally managed to post the full thing TT_TT. It's still my first ff and I still apologize for the outcome of this, since I usually do music reviews and (bad) poetry:

Inspiration for it & pt2 were Sticky & April 7th by a Band called The Maine

__________________________________________________________

When you first saw him, he was dancing like nobody was watching

when in fact, everybody was.

You were no exception to the other people staring at him while they were shouting names, singing along to the lyrics sung by the 7 people dancing on stage, so stable and well.

And this man? This man didn’t seem to miss a beat. He moved so effortlessly through every song, having the time of his life, dancing and singing and rapping his heart out

- until he first spotted you in the crowd, watched in awe as you got lost in stereo, eyes shut to enjoy the music

- until you opened your eyes to look back at him.

And suddenly the man who was just dancing along to a fun song that luckily had no choreography, froze just like someone who’d be busted dancing with a mob.

He didn’t know what had hit him when your eyes made contact with his, but he just stood there, unable to move until the eldest came and hit him on the head jokingly, followed by the youngest jumping on both of them.

The Dancer snapped out of it at this point and you didn’t have a single ounce of understanding for what just happened. Usually it was Jungkook lagging, but not during performances and out of all the people you’d suspect to stop moving, Hobi would be the last one to.

Until he was. And he looked baffled when he came back down to earth, whispering to both of his friends as they were finishing the song before leaving to change clothes. He couldn’t help from looking back and subtly pointing at your part of the crowd a few times though

and as he kept on, you started to sense something. From the way he looked back. From the way he pointed in this direction..your brain meanwhile got the bizarre idea that it was you who got him that stunned. Maybe he saw someone else in you? Maybe a fansite? “Oh god please not a fansite.” you whispered, barely audible but turning the heads of the girls in front of you as you started shaking...or maybe an ex? You couldn’t pinpoint it but you also couldn’t stop thinking of the possibility that it was indeed you he reacted this way to.

and you were right about him freezing because of you, but dead wrong about him recognizing his ex, or a fansite, or anyone for that reason.

It was cliché but all the thought at that moment was that, even in this dimly lit room - you were the most beautiful thing he’s ever come across.

The way you danced like nobody was watching, because there probably really was no one watching you, all the while lip-syncing to boyz with fun, you were glowing and the way you suddenly stared at him, with adoration in your eyes, that had him overwhelmed.

“You really fell in love at first sight, huh?” Jin laughed in between changes as the younger one told him about what just happened. “I might” Hoseok fell into a stare at the realisation,. “This is crazy,” he whispered to himself. “You might never see them again though.” Namjoon exclaimed drily from across the room. “I’ll try...I guess?” - “What are you going to do, hunt that person down?” The leader raised an eyebrow and Hoseok sighed. “I don’t know.” It wasn’t until Yoongi - who currently fought with his leather pants - spoke up from the corner “just tell the staff to keep them here. Say Hi, see where it goes afterwards.” and while the leader and Hoseok agreed that this could come across as kind of creepy - the dancer gave it a try. He pointed to you, with the glowing green bracelet on your arm, gave them info of where you approximately were or could possibly come out. He did all he could do for them to keep you there and although you were confused, and quite frankly a little scared of what was happening, you stayed.

And god were you ready to fall on your knees and beg not to be sued with every second that passed, making up critical scenarios and what ifs in your head.

All of them were dead wrong.. You didn’t know how exactly he came to be there, but you remember him coming out in baggy pants, a loose shirt, hair that was still somewhat sweaty but at least brushed properly and he had the biggest smile as he came closer while you and a staff member were still jokingly debating whether ketchup was a smoothie or not. With a breathless “Hi.” he almost scared the living shit out of you.

“Hi” you replied, just as breathless and quite frankly confused. Both your Anxiety levels flew through the roof with each awkward second the two of you didn’t speak. It’s ironic how he wanted to tell you so much, but eventually when you were in front of him, sweat still somewhat glistening on your face and exhaustion written on it in tiny letters, he lost all his words.

It was you who, while still holding eye contact, spoke up. “So...you froze before...are you okay?” You nervously rubbed your arm, but he saw his chance. “Yeah, I’m sorry, it was kind of your fault” an awkward laugh followed from his side, making you nervously rub your arm and look down before he followed up “I got mesmerized by looking at you.” and boom, he had all your attention again. Eyes growing big at his comment. “Wait what?” - “I saw you vibe along and somehow, I don’t know. You just amazed me.” Everything after that was rambling as he tried to explain in a way that didn’t seem too forward or make you uncomfortable and apparently it worked when you let out a chuckle “You’re cute, you know that?” - “Cute enough to go on a date with me?” His sudden question left you as surprised as it did him. He didn’t think he’d do it like that, but judging from you freezing like a deer in the headlights, it was too straight forward and pointless. “Ah you kn-” - “Okay.” This time around he was the deer. And your answer? Just hit him like a car. “okay?” he replied in disbelief. “Yes, unless you don’t want to anymore?” you raised an eyebrow and he shook his head. “no, I’d still love to! How does tomorrow sound?” he asked so cheerfully the change of Aura almost threw you off. “Tomorrow sounds great, I think. Afternoon or evening?” - “Brunch?” - “Could work, might not. I usually sleep in on weekends. My body just naturally ignores every alarm clock I have until 13:00…but... I could get my roommate to wake me up with water I guess.” You said sheepishly.

“So...in case your roommate DOES wake you, how does 11:30 sound?” he smiled, screaming on the inside, hoping, praying, putting all of his trust in your roommate. “Sounds great.” You smiled back and at this moment he was a goner. Almost literally, since Jungkook called for the living, breathing sun to come back, because he wanted to go already. “Wait, give me your number so we can figure more details out.” a phone was pressed into your hands. You didn’t take long to type in your number and call yourself, his smile only growing as you handed it back to him. He had your number. He did it. You gave him his number and if tomorrow was going well, he was convinced that he could die happily.

When JK called for a second time he went away though “Well, I guess I really gotta go. I’ll see ya.” he waved at you and you just copied the action, smiling widely at him. “BY THE WAY” he called out after you “YES?”- “Y/N.... The Name fits you.” - “How?” - “A BEAUTIFUL NAME FOR A BEAUTIFUL HUMAN” and with that he was out of the room, and you and the staff member went out in the other direction, with her clearly laughing as you turned as red as a tomato. A warm feeling spread all throughout you, as you walked into the cold air, excited for what was to come, while the man who just asked a total stranger out just ended up happy dancing the entire night, leaving Jimin internally screaming for deciding to room with the manic squirrel and in serious conflict of whether he was just gonna head into Taehyung's room instead. In Hindsight, he probably should have.

Back then, on that first April 7 in the Arena, you met the man who lights up even the darkest days of your life. You learnt pretty fast that it wasn’t all fun and games, and relationships with Idols are hard. Big Hit bought out dispatch when it came to you, but still, not being able to see each other properly..sometimes was difficult, when all you wanted was to cuddle.

So he left sweaters at your place, and you saw each other whenever the other was near, you two made the, partially rough, two years worth the wait and god does he love you for holding on like that.

But exactly you, or the lack of your presence, made it hard for him to concentrate on rehearsal today. Knowing it’s the same day, the same arena, but someone else in your place. You usually took the time for important dates, 100 day anniversaries and birthdays were shared. Hell, the first anniversary you took leave to visit him on tour, but the second one, you informed him you couldn’t watch from the stage like you did so many times before. “Important family stuff.” you told him and the boys knew he wasn’t his usual self. Still whooped the professional part - except for the facial expressions and while the younger ones tried to coax the sun into shining again after the first Rehearsal, it wasn’t until Yoongi snuck up behind Hoseok with a phone in hand.

While the younger ones were still occupying Hoseok, Yoongi facetimed you and held the phone close to Hobis ear and before he could register anything, he heard “HOBI!” from the other line. Resulting in the dancer getting half a heart attack before turning around, resulting in Yoongi just handing him his phone and leaving. “Baby..” you pouted as you looked at his face. “Jagi, I miss you” a pout leaving him too. “You’ll see me soon, baby. I’m sorry I can’t watch like we planned.” - “ I know, I know” he sighed on the other line and you could feel your heart break. Dying to see your man already.

“I’ll see you soon, baby, don’t worry. We can celebrate after the concert tonight. Just give your best today, and if you won’t, you know I’m gonna find out from Jimin, right?” he chuckled at that comment, giving you a bright smile afterwards. “I know, I know. I’ll try.” - “You don’t need to, you were born to do what you’re doing baby. You’ll do great as always. Just picture me in the crowd, I’m always with you in spirit when I can’t be there - and you’ll get endless cuddles and everything else in the world when we’re home so cheer up.” Needless to say, you weren’t the best in cheering people up but weirdly enough it worked as he sighed out “will do.” giving you a smile afterwards. “Good, now go practice and then - go get 'em. I’ll be off too.” - Wait. Jagi?” You raised an eyebrow. “I love you.” He grinned and you could barely get out “I love you too” before he hung up and brought Yoongi back the phone. Somehow falling into a happy dance again.

“What’s with him?” Namjoon cut in, seeing Hoseok dance between doors “Talked to Y/N” Yoongi just replied and the Leader just nodded. This was normal by now. If he wasn’t everyone else's vitamin e - on days like these you were his and while he was still bummed, the sadness was pushed back by him deciding to just do as you told and picture you there. You’d be off work or family duties or whatever emergency came in between by the time he was done. You’d still see each other. It wasn’t what he had planned and you knew it wouldn’t be, but he’d be happy either way. He was happy with everything as long as the end result was you.

So the rehearsals continued. You headed out the house shortly after facetiming him and he put on clothes, got makeup done and set on a smile, all the while still texting you “I love you” being reciprocated with “I love you too, have fun out there.” It was the last text you sent him before you shut your phone off for now. It was also the last thing he read before he got onto that stage.

And while he loved the crowd, he thought the only thing he wanted to happen tonight was for the concert to end. For now.

Until, suddenly, two years after that last April 7th, he froze up during the choreography when he saw a big green heart during Boys With Fun. He couldn’t help but giggle as he read “Hey, sorry I just got kind of mesmerized by you.”

You, ass, stood there, waving that big heart, with that same green bracelet from years ago. Leaving him as amazed and defenseless as you did exactly two years ago and the grin he had on his face as he came to his senses again was second to none. Neither was your surprised reaction as he suddenly came close to your end, jumping over the barricade and pulling you, who stood just close enough to touch, in his direction. Placing his hands on your cheeks, greeting you with a kiss as the people beside you gasped, awed and the Maknae who saw the whole thing just wiped away a fake tear whispering “they grow up so fast.”

That was definitely not how you planned on your relationship being outed, but then again, he didn’t plan to see you here tonight and you, you had a way of melting his brain and making him do things. “Hey” he then said, almost breathless, still entranced and only looking at you. “Hey” you replied smiling. “So, you kinda mesmerized me and..would you wanna..you know, date?” he whispered in your ear, ignoring the music.. “I’m sorry, I kind of have a boyfriend.” you whispered back, laughing afterwards. It was only seconds until your face was in his hands again. “Then what do you say about moving in with him?” Deer in the headlights hobi? More like deer in the headlights Y/N - and this time the truck hit you. You didn’t know much to say, just frantically nodded and he took the time to kiss you again, softly, with all these people still around, and yet, for him you were the only one.

You’ve been the only one for the last two years. You’ll stay the only one for this little eternity he gets to stay with you..

[omgkalyppso]

ok a few questions about the ot4 kids!

What is the birth order? which sibling do each of them like the most? Are there any sibling rivalries? Who's each one's birth parents (sorry if this question is offensive, i realize all 4 are their parents, but i'm curious who inherited what from whom)

and lastly do they have nicknames? :D

asdfhaksk Thank you for the ask! I only didn't Really specify some of these things since they're included in stuff on my ao3 and I worry about boring people by being repetitive, but I'm So Happy to talk about them.

But uh. I also can't shut up, so here's another cut. (Extremely long, you have been warned)

So. Lorenz and Hilda have been married for 7 years by the time they start becoming romantically entangled with Fae and Claude (then married for some months, nearly a year). Hilda and Lorenz already have Halvard (the eldest) (nickname Hal) and Lorencia (nickname Lori) by then. Fae and Claude have their twins next, Nader and Geralt.

I debated for a long time after this about whether the next child I wrote would have Claude and Hilda as bio parents. At the time, I was still relatively alone in polyshipping in this fandom, and I was too afraid to follow through. I was picturing what people would say in-universe and to me specifically when I was already liberally using the block button for other nonsense; but there's someone who ships byleth x claude x lorenz x hilda making art in the Lorenz zine of them and all their fankids and it's SO FUCKING CUTE. I don't regret my family interpretations, but I am envious that they have that.

Anyway! After the twins, Fae and Claude conceive again, Sadaf, and as I've given Fae the capability to tell relatively early if they're pregnant (Byleth / My Unit having no heartbeat. I've written Fae as being shocked and Aware when suddenly they have one), when Fae and Claude tell Lorenz and Hilda, they readily conspire to have another child, to bring their families closer together, assuming having children so close in age would have some effect on this, similar milestones and just the means and desire for this sort of love. Also, I just picture Lorenz as the sort of only child who wants a larger family. So that's Baldovin (bullied with the nickname Baldy, until Sadaf starts calling him Vinnie).

Ten years younger than Fae and Claude's twins, they conceive Simon. He's unplanned, and Fae's 46 by then. He's a little sickly as a child. Spinal problems through life. And the only one of the kids in post-canon who grows up with four parents. When he's 11 years old Halvard is 27, and taking over as head of house Gloucester so that Lorenz is being (forcibly, but he's fine) retired to the palace in Derdriu as Advisor to the Crown; Hilda's held a title at the court in Derdriu for far longer than this though, because in her and Lorenz's paired ending it talks about her setting up trade schools? Because of her crafting? But I like her illustrating Seteth's children books and being Aware of what Cyril went through and instead name her as Minister of Children and Youth Services, and having helped establish something like a school board; which is hilarious that we all want something like this — smiled BIG about this part of your big bang piece for Yuri.

All together the kids look like:

Halvard is about 3 years older than Lorencia.

Lorencia is about 3 years older than the twins.

The twins are about 2 years older than Sadaf.

Sadaf is about 2 months older than Baldovin.

Baldovin is about 7 years older than Simon.

I actually have a fic titled Headcanons and Extrapolations where chapter 2 is art of my fankids and chapter 4 is my timeline: https://archiveofourown.org/works/20658107

Three bullet points in this fic read:

When Halvard was twelve, he accidentally caught a glance of a stolen kiss between Claude and his father. When he approached him on it, Lorenz was at the same time grateful and resentful that he was alone to have to try and have this conversation with his son. He did a surprisingly good job of it. A few months later, Halvard approached the monarchs and his parents to say they should be less subtle about it. They crowded in on each other's space far more in the company of their children afterwards.

It’s not one conversation that the ot4 has with any of their children afterwards which attempts to explain the nature of their relationship, but rather several conversations over the course of their lives. By the time Simon is an adult, however, it’s barely even a conversation. He sort of has to come into himself raised by four parents, and the sight is no longer striking to the royal attendants or the people of Omoya.

There have been rumors about the Monarchs and their indiscretion and perceived promiscuity since before the birth of Sadaf. They never figured out how to address them, but when Lorenz and Hilda eventually moved into the palace in Derdriu, they finally took Halvard's advice, practically daring anyone to bring attention to the affection they shared (just casual pda, like hand holding, a chaste kiss goodbye, etc.).

Also uhhhhhhhhh Omoya is the name I gave to the allied lands of Fodlan and Almyra (and technically Brigid who joined their whole Thing like 13 years after the initial political mess).

Halvard is a little too old for rivalries with his younger siblings, so he tells himself; his time at the academy would have been Before them. I actually picture him having a rivalry with Ashe and Caspar's daughter, Keegan.

Lorencia would have been riddled with anxiety about going to the Academy, but by the time the twins are going at age 17, she's encouraged to join them. Nader and Geralt are more "partners in crime" than rivals, but their relationship would go through rough patches of aging and differences at the Academy, and Lorencia being more prepared than she thought she was would frustrate Nader who'd have a harder time with the studies that she'd excel at.

Sadaf and Vinnie are friends — they're siblings — who stand up for each other and goad each other on. And Vinnie finds a rivalry at their time at the Academy in Sylvain and Felix's adopted daughter, Elspeth.

Simon holds himself to too high of standards, being so much younger than the people he loves and looks up to. He wants to be Ready and Capable and is eager to prove himself. He grows out of it.

I'm not sure what you mean when you ask who has favorites. There are certainly siblings they get along more strongly with: the twins, Sadaf and Vinnie, Lorencia and Simon, Halvard and Lorencia. But I wouldn't say that any of them like one more than the other, either between them or from the perspective of their parents. aksdfkas

Also I didn't know where to fit this in there but like the rest of my oc's, my ot4 kids are bi unless stated otherwise: Geralt is a gay he/they.

Have some more kids from their setting. (I have given these kids far less thought. They don't have siblings, you just get to see a young and then Academy-age version of themselves.)

Keegan is Ashe and trans Caspar's daughter. She's a menace and keeps Halvard on his toes during their time at the Academy. Halvard is not as sheltered as Lorenz was, but he's still a little proper for Keegan's taste.

Dimitri is alive and well though the Kingdom has been dissolved and believes him to be deceased. He married Marianne under an assumed last name, and this is their son Blythe. He is polite and awkward and is at the Academy at the same time as Lorencia, Nader and Geralt.

Fernan is Mercedes and Dedue's son (t4t powercouple). He's soft spoken with a big smile and a bigger heart. He's also at the academy at the same time as Lorencia, Nader and Geralt. He and Geralt can have a little romance, as a treat.

Elspeth is Sylvain and trans Felix's adopted daughter and goes to the Academy at the same time as Sadaf and Vinnie. I figured between Sylvain, Miklan, Annette and Gilbert, red hair was a fair choice for a Faerghan. She's a Fraldarius (and in line to be a duchess). Because of recurring, I feel like this says a lot about her. asdkfjhgasdjkhfg

[ambidextrousarcher]

The Beat of a Heart

In honour of Doctor’s Day (barely in time), here’s a short story by my hand. It’s based mostly on real-life experiences, most of the scenes based on things I have seen in clinical postings. I am not sure whether I got the main character’s emotions right, but I did my best, so I guess that counts. 

[Image ID: A stethoscope with blue tubing, silver diaphragm and black earpieces lying on top of a blurred keyboard, a blue pad to the left of the stethoscope, with a piece of blank paper pinned on it. On the bottom left, the words ‘The beat of a heart...’ are written in red England Hand font. End ID]

I’m tagging my usual writer mutuals and putting the actual short story under a cut.

My taglist: @ambitiousandcunning @medhasree @shaonharryandpannisim @chaanv @arjunaparantapa @hindumyththoughts @spockswhore @ashsnipes​ @annlillyjose​ @seekerbrave​ @avakrahn​ @a-confusedmess​ @arachneofthoughts​ @paneerlajwanti​ @vishnupada​ @bookdragonfanish​ @iamnotthat​ @foreveres​ @shellweed​ @will-die-without-chai​.

She coughs a little, ignoring the rasp in her throat, wishing she could reach for her water bottle, but is impeded by the sheer number of people between her and the bottle in question. She reaches for the hand rub instead, the familiar smell of ethanol almost soothing for a moment. She blinks, turning to the older man sitting across her, the familiar questions on her lips.

‘Can you tell me why you’re here?’ she asks, noting down the man’s anxiety, trying to make her voice sound soothing. That is all the prompting he needs to launch into his long-winded story. She stretches a little, noticing the line of people in front of her, and the students hanging on each of her words standing behind her chair.

She smiles, looking behind her at the students, gesturing subtly for one of them to take over. ‘Make sure to examine him properly,’ she instructs. The student she had instructed nods, her eyes wide. ‘Yes, ma’am,’ the younger girl responds, leading the man to a bed. She can see the couple of students who had bothered to attend all clustered together, their discussion hushed.

She suppresses a grin. They’ll learn. She herself had. And indeed, one of the the students comes forward tentatively, stopping her peer who had been taking the man’s history, and begins the examination.

She turns to her work, leaving the students occupied for now. It’s a familiar battleground of questions and answers, having to rush the patients because of the lack of time. ‘Ma’am?’ it’s a young gentleman. ‘Yes, sir?’ ‘I am sorry,’ he says hesitantly, ‘I don’t understand what you said.’ She nods. Clears her throat, looking wistfully at the bottle that still is too far to reach, and too empty besides. Looking at it only diverts her attention to the humidity the fan is doing little for, the sweat trickling down her back.

She shakes her head. Do not divert your attention. Her colleague shoots her an understanding look, as she explains the prescription once again. He nods, with a quiet ‘thank you.’ She nods back at him as he leaves.

‘Ma’am?��� She turns once more. If nothing else, she muses wryly, choosing medicine has definitely taught me to multitask. The students lead the first man back to her, their clinical skills enthusiastic if a touch inexperienced. One of the girls excitedly details the sound of an ejection click. She smiles, lending the younger girl her own stethoscope. The girl listens in with the man’s permission in quiet absorption, the ritual being repeated by each of her friends, all of them clearly awed.

The gentleman looks amused at the furore the click of his valves, amplified by his metallic pacemaker, has elicited. She corrects them when needed, leading to a response of all heads nodding at once.

As the clock strikes 1, the students ask for leave to disperse and the crowd of patients mercifully thins. She tells them to go and come back for a short class in the evening, finally leaving behind the pursuit of her elusive lunch and the all-important water.

Her lunch in front of her, her thirst finally quenched, she ruffles through her iPad for information to make the class slides for tomorrow’s discussion. All too soon the short break is over, the slides still unfinished, and she stands, following her friends out of the Duty Doctors’ Room to go on ward rounds. Her eyes flit to a notification on her News app, of a doctor being beaten by goons. She sighs. There is no use pondering over this. I can only do my best. She knows protests do little good, so she hardens her heart and strides out, sliding her phone in her pocket.

Somewhere in the middle of the rounds, the students following her and the senior doctor like ducklings following mother duck, one of them comes running to her. ‘Ma’am,’ his voice is high with fear. She gives him her immediate attention. ‘There’s a man on that bed…’ the boy points, ‘…17, he’s…he’s not really breathing.’

Oh, no. Her friend steps up, running to the patient, while she looks for his details, adrenaline sharpening her senses.

He is a new patient, there is next to nothing on his chart. She can hear a lady wailing and she winces. No one should see their loved one in such a situation, she thinks, even as she squares her shoulders, moving towards the bed, shaking her head at her friend, who had already started CPR. She gently moves the lady aside, trying to console her, even when there is fear in her own heart that the news she might have to deliver could be irredeemable.

‘Doctor?’ asks the lady querulously, ‘you’ll save him, won’t you?’ She looks down for a moment, before meeting the lady’s gaze. ‘We will do our best,’ she replies quietly, grave as the situation is. The lady nods, tears still pooling in her eyes.

She can hear her friend panting. Quiet and quick, she swaps her place with him, continuing CPR. He shoots her a grateful look. She turns her attention to the patient. Between the three of them, they manage to get the patient breathing, she notes with relief. That relief doesn’t last long, though, as she looks the patient over. The catheter connected to him, filled with orange urine, the gross ascites and icterus. He’s on Rifampicin. TB with hepatic encephalopathy. One glance at her friend tells her that he, too, is thinking the same.

The lady with the patient…his wife by the sound of it, reads the grave news on their faces, facilitated, perhaps, by her intubated husband’s gasps of breath. She sinks into the bars of the hospital bed for support. She is at a loss for a moment, as she always is when confronted by the inevitability of death. She kneels then, her hand on the lady’s shoulder, silently commiserating.

When she stands, she looks at the downcast yet awed students and forces a smile. ‘Well,’ she says, stopping them as they turn away, towards the exit, clearly assuming that class is cancelled for the day. She has no intention of doing that, though. They need to learn that life doesn’t stop for those of us still hale.

At the sound of her voice, they turn as one, looking at her with eyes comparable in size to dinner dishes. ‘I’ll just wash my hands and come back,’ she says firmly. ‘You guys go wait in the Duty Doctors’ Room for your class.’ They keep staring at her for a few moments. ‘Go on,’ she instructs. They obey, darting reverential glances at her, talking in hushed whispers. How could someone literally save a life and just go back to normal like that? She hears one of their voices, quiet, dazzled. Despite knowing the truth, the innocent fascination in the boy’s face makes her smile.

I don’t know! She hears one of his friends reply. I want to be a doctor like that, when I finish my degree, when we really become doctors, the girl says, making her smile wider. The younger girl sounds like a young child deciding the goal of her life.  

She tamps down the giddy joy and the grief simultaneously warring inside her, long since used to contradictory emotions, keeping a straight face as she strides to the washbasin.

When she enters the Duty room for the class, they’re discussing the exposure she could have had. She smiles wryly for a moment. This kind of exposure is a fact of life, she nearly blurts out, deciding not to, enjoying their impressed approval for a moment, before she clears her throat.

They all look abashed. She decides to proceed as if the moment before had not occurred, which was helped by one of them asking about the man she had done the CPR on. She summarises the case, gives them a few topics to read on and sends them home.

Before leaving the hospital proper, she circulates the wards once more. The CPR patient crashes again. This time, though they try long and hard, the lose the man, the beat of his heart forever silenced.

Her senior takes responsibility of the formalities, telling her to leave. Leave she does, casting one last glance back at the shell of the man, helplessness overtaking her for a moment.

She checks in with her colleague manning the night shift if she is free to go, fighting the uncanny feeling of déjà vu that comes with every patient they lose suddenly, the realisation striking anew that life goes on.

It is a leisurely walk back to hostel, the cool air soothing on her sweat-soaked shirt. She is thinking once more of the next day’s presentation, the number of slides still left to finish off.

After a quick wash-up and dinner, she sits with her iPad. It is nearly midnight when she finishes her work, fighting her drooping eyes. She checks in her WhatsApp, shooting a quick goodnight to her parents. The statues of her medico friends are full of calls for justice against the recent violence. Her non-medico friends are, as usual, conspicuously silent on the matter.

Ah, well, she thinks, it’s not like armchair social media posts can actually do much. Besides, this is not an issue that they face. Why judge? They’re probably thinking the same I do.

 She debates posting a status of her own then decides against it, for again, social media can only do so much. The bitter truth can’t be changed.

Her mother’s voice echoes in her head, what mama had said the last time she had shared news of such violence. At least they didn’t kill him. You people get a lot of respect, you know?

She shakes her head, banishing those thoughts. She doesn’t want to have nightmares. Besides, tomorrow, she has to report for ID duty. She needs to be well rested for that. So she thinks of the awestruck students, the young girl’s voice playing in her head. I want to be a doctor like that, she said, when I finish my degree.

She falls asleep with a smile on her face.

When she is leaving for duty the next morning, she loops her stethoscope along the back of her throat, the diaphragm of the steth sitting firmly over her own beating heart. Time for another day at work.

Some terms that might be unknown:

Ejection Click: In some patients with heart problems, there is some backflow of the blood when the heart contracts. This backflow is heard as a ‘click’ sound when a stethoscope is used. This ‘click’ is amplified if the patient has a prosthetic metallic valve, as in case of the old gentleman in the story who is based on a real patient.

Rifampicin: A drug that is part of the four-drug regimen for Tuberculosis (TB). It increases the effect of another drug in the combination, Isoniazid, which is toxic to the liver. India has a huge number of cases of TB, being one of the TB-endemic countries. The orange urine is one of the most noticeable side-effects of using this drug.

Hepatic encephalopathy: Loss of proper brain function due to inability of liver to remove toxins. The patient on whom CPR was administered was in a coma due to this condition. He, too, was based on a real patient.

Ascites: Swelling of the abdomen due to accumulation of fluid in the abdomen.

Icterus: Yellowing of the sclera  (whites of the eyes) and bulbar conjuctiva, a hallmark of jaundice.

The doctor here makes the diagnosis of TB with drug induced hepatic encephalopathy because of the ascites and icterus combined with the rifampicin usage and the coma. It is an unfortunately common condition here. 

I just noticed that I haven't clarified ID Duty. It means Infectious Diseases ward duty. In this case, I meant COVID-19 duty, though it may not always mean that.

[kimberly-spirits13]

Tough Love (Request)

Pairing: Bruce x (daughter) reader

Synopsis: You’ve always been tough. It was just part of the job. However, your father never wanted you involved in the hero life. As you got older you trained and started on your own offering to help along the way. He never let you, maybe there was something wrong with him, or maybe it was you?

Notes:

Warnings: Bruce being a crappy father 

Word Count: 1328

           You were one of the eldest siblings of the Batfam. Younger than Dick, but older than Jason, you were Bruce’s first biological child. He never wanted you to follow in his footsteps and become a vigilante. You hated it, being left out of the family business. In spite of this, you worked harder than anyone, trained, got proper schooling, and went out to start a massive corporation. Diana and Alfred were like your actual parents. You crashed at her place when things with your father got harder, and Alfred was there as your rock. He was for everyone.

           At the age of 15, you started secretly training to become the hero, Knight. Your costume was intricate, filled with details on your black armor. Like your youngest and oldest brother, escrima sticks and swords were your calling card weapons. Now, your father knew about these activities. When you told him, he was less than pleased but he knew that there was nothing he could do to stop it. Now, in present day, you still offered to help on cases, but always for nothing.

           “Diana I just don’t understand!” You said, “Dad still isn’t letting me help and I’m a grown woman.” “21!”

           “I know you’re pained by this Y/N, but have you ever thought about the fact that he’s afraid of... losing you to the job?” Diana asked sipping her tea.

           “I mean maybe but he’s losing me already and I’m not even that deep in.” You sighed, “He doesn’t care what I do, but when it comes to making a difference, he goes up in arms.”

           You weren’t one to be vulnerable with anyone. It was just part of growing up. Within the office you had to make sure to keep as boss, on the streets, a Wayne, and finally, in the field, Knight. These moments were some of the only that you’d let yourself, your thoughts and emotions show.

           You were about to say something else when the phone rang. It was Dick calling to ask if you were coming to the manor.

           “It was nice seeing you Diana, I have to get back to the manor and help out with a few things.” You said standing up.

           You bid her a farewell and left for Gotham. It was raining when you got there, something typical of the city. Alfred greeted you at the door with a massive hug.

           “How is everything here?” You asked.

           “Everything is in its normal state of chaos, though Master Bruce has taken on a new case that I think might be over his head. It is evolving a few very large corporations, some that you might be better acquainted with.” Alfred explained as you walked into the cave, greeted by your family.

           “That is interesting. Maybe I can look into it.” You said after everyone was suiting up to go on patrol or leaving.

           Everyone was gone when you made your next comment, “You know, without telling dad.”

           Alfred nodded walking off just as Bruce walked in.

           “Without telling me what?” He asked suited up.

           “Oh nothing.” He eyed you suspiciously.      

           “This wouldn’t be about the corporation scheme? Is it?” Bruce questioned.

           “Probably not.” You replied, holding your hands behind your back.

           “You know I don’t want you messing with this Y/N. If I could have, I would have stopped you completely.” Your father walked to one of the gear shelves to get something down.

           “That isn’t up to you, besides I am perfectly capable of helping and doing my part.” You said defensively, “I could help you, you know. I mean I work closer with the owners of the corporations than anyone else, it would be easy-“

           Your father cut you off aggressively, “Haven’t I made myself clear in the past? I don’t want you helping. You could get hurt or...” He paused thinking leaving you room to interject.

           “Or get in the way. Is that it? You just don’t want me coming into the picture with everyone else? Babs could, Steph, Cass! Hell! The moment I came to you asking to do anything it was shut down immediately! Do you not trust me?!” You asked now crossing your arms in anger.

           “No!” He yelled, “You’d be totally consumed Y/N! This isn’t up for debate, I don’t want to hear about it again lest you’d like to lose patrol privileges here!”

           “Fine! Consider this the last time, you never needed me anyways, I was always the side act.” You ran off hoping to not talk about this any further unless he would have a civil conversation without brushing you off like he always did. You knew that was hopeless.

           Bruce tried to call you back but you hopped onto your bike and sped off for Nightwing’s location, hopefully to rant for a few minutes.

           It was silent in the cave for a while. Bruce was fuming, but at the same time he knew, he knew that he couldn’t stop you. You had the drive that he had and the determination of a god. He scolded himself for letting you run off like that.

           “Master Bruce, I think you owe Miss. Y/N an apology. She is your daughter and is only trying to be a part of this family.” Alfred came in, “She tells me that she doesn’t feel like you care you know.” “Miss. Y/N thinks that she is better off just leaving the family all together.”

           Bruce could sense Alfred’s saddened tone upon saying that.

           “You must let her do something of use. Master Bruce, you are already losing her whether you’d like to accept it or not.”          

           Bruce wanted to yell at him but he couldn’t. He’d never really seen you talk to anyone in that way. Maybe he really was losing his little girl.

           “What do I do?” Bruce asked now totally at a loss.

           “Take her up on her offer. If anything, you’d bond more during these times. She’s not all brick and steel walls Master Bruce, you just have to get to know her. Apologize when she comes back, I shall have tea and cookies made upon her return. Maybe during this time, you might come up with a sincere apology.”

           Bruce didn’t argue, instead, he left for patrol to think and also to fight criminals but still.

           You walked into the cave last, staying behind for some extra training. You knew that your father was behind you, however, you weren’t going to acknowledge it.

           “Y/N.” He said.

           “Mhmm?” You hummed in response, your heart racing at what he might say.

           “We need to talk.” He said, “Come over here.”

           You two walked to the cave computer and sat down.

           “I know that I haven’t been very ... accommodating or supportive of your hero life style. I know that I have never been the best father and that I should never have so blindly left you in the dark to figure this entire thing out by yourself. I am so, very sorry for all of the trouble that I’ve caused being so stubborn. I think I was afraid of losing you ultimately. It should never have been my choice. I want to have you start helping on cases more. Build a better relationship with you know that you’re older. All of this, only if you’ll allow it.” Bruce explained.

           You could feel a lump in your throat forming as you heard the words of validation that you had been wanting to hear for so many years. It was the greatest thing that had ever happened to you which was saying a lot.

           “T-thank you.” You hugged him tightly as he did the same.

           “I’m sorry that you’ve had to do all this without your father being supportive of everything, not just the business and schooling parts.” Bruce stated.

           “It’s fine now, all’s forgiven.”

           With that, you sat down with cookies and tea, working on the first case with your father that you had ever done.

I really liked this request a lot. I’m working on more and will post one request a day also sometimes throwing in some of my own. I hope that you guys are having a great week and had a restful weekend and I hope that you liked this!

[roguepaladin]

The Roadtrip

Inspried by a post about RVs and a WIP I made some time ago. 

----

When Shiro used to imagine what a family road trip would look like, it usually consisted of a packed RV driving across states to see sights like the world’s biggest yarn ball. His reality however was much different, for one thing; it wasn’t a cramped old RV but a high tech alien spacecraft. He also wasn’t going to see a yarn ball but travelling to a different planet altogether.

‘Where are we going again?’ he asked his wife and pilot of said spacecraft.

Allura turned to him, she was dressed in a soft and fluttering yellow dress with a large hat and looked at him in disbelief.

‘To the beach! I told you 5 times!’ 

‘Yes, but it looks like we’re going to space, last time I checked the beach was 5 miles that way’ 

‘EARTH BEACHES ARE NO EXPERIENCE FOR MY GRANDCHILDREN!’ came the loud authoritative voice of Coran aka Grandpapi. He was currently putting a suspiciously large container onto the ship, he was also wearing what Shiro could only describe as altean beachwear. 

Coran fixed his greying mustache and walked over to the couple, ‘The only beach worth going to is the one on the planet Elisetor. We’d take Allura there every year during the colder months on Altea’.

Allura answered in the affirmative. ‘Shiro you are going to love it, the sand is like glitter and the water is the most beautiful shade of pink!’

‘Pink!?’ came the excited voice of their 10 year old daughter. Junko Shirogane, their eldest, came running up followed by her more quiet but equally excited younger brother Alfor Shirogane. 

‘It is really pink mommy!?’ Junko clung to Allura’s dress excitedly.

‘Yes, and that’s all I’m going to say for now, the rest is a surprise’ She ruffled her bushy mane of white and black hair and scooted her onto the ship. Shiro picked up the lagging Alfor and carried him on board, ‘ready for the beach?’ Alfor nodded with a pleased huff. 

Now that everything was ready, the Shirogane's bid farewell to their earthly home and were a wormhole away from summer fun. 

-

Allura was excited, not only to see a place from her childhood but to share it with the people she loved most. She looked over to her family, Alfor clung to Shiro’s chest as they both watched the stars go by. Junko and Coran were on the bridge practicing swimming without water or perhaps dancing? She knew better than to think too hard on that. 

She reached over and tapped her husband on the shoulder. 

‘Hm?’ he turned. 

Allura chuckled. ‘Starstruck as ever’, He smiled. 

‘Sorry to interrupt you two, but Alfor can you help mommy for a second?’

Alfor was effectively handed over to Allura and she placed his tiny palms onto the control panel, which had the coordinates for Elisetor imputed. 

‘Can you open a wormhole for me, please?’ Allura asked her son. Alfor looked up at her with uncertainty. Shiro came to stand next to Allura to also offer his encouragement. It was a few months ago but despite his young age, they had noticed him already being able to control quintessence. She and Shiro debated whether it was too early to begin any kind of training and finally agreed to arrange a test. 

‘Don’t worry I’ll help’ and Allura placed one of her hands onto the panel. ‘Ready?’

They both closed their eyes in concentration. Shiro watched nervously as Alfor’s little hands glowed faintly with an electric hue of blue. Nothing seemed to be happening and Allura was almost tempted to stop but that thought was interrupted by the sound of the wormhole opening! The two parents looked up, unable to believe it actually worked. It was small, so Allura helped make it bigger as their ship passed through.

‘You did it!!’ the two parents held up their son triumphantly, Shiro even tossed him! Allura hadn’t even realised she had been crying until she touched her face. Junko and Coran ran over to join the group hug. No one seemed to be more ecstatic about the moment than Coran. ‘Just like his Grandfather!’ They all knew he meant Alfor’s namesake and they couldn’t feel more proud. 

As the planet came into view, they could make out a large pink ocean and silvery terrain. Elisetor sparkled like a large round gem. Coran was right, no beach on earth could come close to this. Allura couldn’t help but laugh as she watched Shiro join their children to stare in childlike wonder. 

‘Alright, Alright! Prepare for landing and the best beach day ever!’ She announced to her passengers. As the children and Coran went to their stations, Shiro returned to her side at the controls.

‘It’s beautiful’

Allura looked at him, his profile reflected the soft pink light of Elisetor. His smile was just as warm. 

‘Yes it is’ 

End of Part 1. 

[seokmingiggles]

fanfic writer tag game!

@adi--writes​​​ thank you so much for tagging me :D (also, i could have sworn someone else may have tagged me?? if so, i’m so sorry, but i can’t find the post ;-; maybe i just saw someone else’s on my dash aaa)

since i’m not sure who’s already done this, i’ll just tag my usual pals! no stress if you’ve already done this tag game previously :> @ahloveisboo @wonwooslibrary @februaryflowers @sanshiine @minghaofilm @lunatens @lovingyu04​​ @merakiiverse​​ + anyone else who’d like to participate!! this was a bunch of fun to do ^^

1. what fandoms have you written for (but do not currently)?

oh boy. if i’m being incredibly honest,, i’ve written for ouran high school host club LOL. not that i posted it anywhere, but i had severe brain-rot for that show a few years back (and pretty much anytime i decide to rewatch it. it’s seriously a comfort show for me). 

2. what fandoms are you currently writing for?

regarding writing that i’ve posted online, just seventeen and bts as seen on my tumblr today! although, i’ve been on and off debating whether i’m going to continue writing for bts. as of now, i’ll definitely at least finish the few requests remaining, but beyond that, i’m not entirely sure yet! i’ll be sure to make an announcement post if i do decide to change anything :)

3. how long have you been writing?

if i’m only counting writing online, then seven months for this blog, but i used to post original stories a few years back (so including that, then approximately six years). although i first began to enjoy creative writing in,, 2008? (but a fun fact is the first story i ever “wrote” was when i was about four or five years old!)

4. on which platforms do you post your stories?

other than this blog, i cross post some of my stories onto my ao3 account. that’s it!

5. what is your favourite genre to write?

this is such a tough question. i think i equally enjoy writing angst and fluff, preferably when i’m able to incorporate both elements into one story. lately, i’ve been trying to expand from my usual genres and try out some aus that i haven’t written before (such as royalty, florist, and hanahaki.. stay tuned for those :3 ). yet, i always seem to come back to simplistic, domestic fluff as that’s typically what’s easiest for me to write.

6. are you a pantser or a planner?

i haven’t heard the term pantser before this! (i’m assuming it means writing on the fly? as opposed to planning, haha.) but to answer the question, it really depends on the fic i’m writing! if it’s something longer (such as for a collab or a longer one-shot), then i’ll definitely make myself some sort of outline or research notes to follow as i’m writing. shorter drabbles may still sometimes have some planning notes beforehand, but certainly not as often.

7. one-shot or multi-chapter?

oh, undoubtedly one-shots! i used to be all about making long, multi-chaptered stories when i was younger, but not once did i ever complete one despite the amount of planning i did for them. i’ve certainly learned my lesson since then, but genuinely enjoy making single-part fics now :D

8. what is the perfect chapter length, in your opinion?

i think it depends on what the plot is. i’m not one to be too worried about keeping track of my word count; i’m a big believer in quality over quantity. adi, you said “anything that makes sense,” and i feel the same way too – long enough for something to feel developed but not repetitive.

9. what is your longest published story? is it complete?

the longest one-shot that i’ve ever written is currently being edited so i’m not going to link it here! but it’s my seungkwan fic, “in winter, he met you” at 10.2k words. i may be writing a spin-off of it at the moment for one of my collabs :0

10. which story did you enjoy working on the most?

oh, this is a tricky question. it’s likely either my svt teacup collection as a whole or my mermaid seokmin fic from january, “transmarinus.” the latter pushed me out of my comfort zone (as i’d never written anything bordering on the fantasy genre before) and also helped me to develop a writing style that i enjoy (flipping between different character povs). oh, and that seokmin fic also ended on a cliffhanger which i also realized i enjoy doing, hehe. (and perhaps the biggest thing that i took away after writing for seokmin is that he became one of my biases afterwards,, oh, january lan, just look at what he means to you now ;-;)

11. favourite request you've written and why (if any?)

yes! it would likely be my soonyoung fic, “solace ‘till morning,” that i had written in my third batch of requests. i’d consider the overall feeling of that one to be fuzzy and a bit ambiguous which, understandably so, isn’t too popular with readers, but i can’t help but enjoy it myself :) i remember focussing more on the ambiance surrounding the characters than the characters themselves.

12. are there reoccurring themes in your stories?

as someone who often defaults to mundane, domestic fluffy drabbles, i’m often concerned that some of my stories or tone can become repetitive. in that sense, what reoccurs in my writing would likely be those little insignificant moments between a couple that don’t mean much in the long run but are short and sweet, nonetheless. (or, at least, that’s what i hope comes across in those types of stories.)

13. current number of wips?

out of my own curiosity, i wanted to actually count the exact number of documents i’ve created... it’s 31. but how many of those have i actually touched within the past couple of months? only 9 ._.

14. three things you have noticed about your own writing?

oh, okay, this is the most challenging question for me on here. i’m not too sure if i can answer this myself! ah, i’m blanking o.o if anyone happens to read this and is familiar with my writing, feel free to let me know if you can think of anything!

15. a quote you like from a published story

this is from “solace ‘till morning” (the same request fic i enjoy the most!):

You can feel his effect on you just from meeting his eyes: it begins in your chest—in your heart—the feeling lurches for a moment before swelling and bubbling up to the surface through your throat and out your mouth in a hushed “You’re beautiful.”

and i’m also including a bit from a vernon fic of mine, “black currant.”

Perhaps it’s a consensus where something is lying beneath the surface; perhaps it’s reciprocated feelings that are too scared to bubble up—to pop and fizzle and explode like a firework bursting with a million colours and then some.

Or perhaps, it’s that the two of you, right now, are stars—similar to the ones which you find yourselves gazing at so fondly.

16. a quote from an unpublished story

here’s something with zero context~

"Dance with me."

"Seok, you know I can't–"

"Nonsense," the boy mumbles as he takes your hands and pulls you close to his chest. His heart beats erratically, and he hopes you're also too nervous to notice.

The two of you sway side to side in time with the gentle instrumental beat from the kitchen radio. The setting sun creates a spotlight of gold beaming through the adjacent window; you watch your shadows move and slowly spin.

They look like the shadows of a couple.

You close your eyes to rid yourself of the sight, your heart unexpectedly cracking despite being in Seokmin's warm embrace. Your head finds his shoulder, and you don't see the way the tips of the boy's ears bloom with pink like rosebuds. You can feel his heartbeat beneath your touch, racing, speeding, much higher than it should be during a slow dance.

Seokmin allows himself to relax as he embraces you tightly. A deep inhale to calm his nerves; he holds his breath for a second before gradually releasing it.

If there were lyrics to the classical piece, you'd imagine that they'd be about some unrequited love. The piano and violin duo: a story about two individuals but one of their hearts yearns for the other in an unknown struggle. The violin's soprano range sings a song for one, sinking deeper and deeper until they lie where no light can find them, and it's only then where their beloved realizes what has happened. The piano follows down the octaves until it is once again in harmony with the melody of the string instrument. Suddenly, the strings swell, and the tune becomes alive once again—could this be a happy ending for the couple?

A strand of your hair is tucked behind your ear, causing you to lift your head and eye the boy in your arms. There's a smile upon his lips when you meet Seokmin's gaze, looking down at you with unexpected adoration in his eyes.

"You're beautiful," he whispers, and yet, some unknown confession remains on the tip of his tongue.

17. space for you to say something to your readers

oh! not only if you’ve read any of my fics but also this tag game post thus far, thank you endlessly! after posting my very first fic on this platform, i genuinely wasn’t expecting to gain an audience. and yet, i’ll never forget how i felt when i received my first request and my first bits of feedback – the amount of gratitude i have isn’t able to be expressed here in mere words.

i know especially as of late, i’ve been taking a long-ass time trying to write the remaining requests i have from march. i promise that i’ll get to all of them eventually!! all i ask is for your patience <3

[lilolilyr]

Fics I Wanted To Write This Year But Didn't, Part 2: Star Trek AU

For @spookyvoidangelskeleton for this ask

Now I suppose these would have been several fics, but in a series or a collection as they're all about the same main storyline: The collapsing of a (or several) universe(s).

If you've known me for a while, you know that I am very into Multiverse Theory, both real life and fictional, and Star Trek with the Mirror Universe is of course one of the first fandoms that comes to mind for me to write my batshit ideas in xD

Basically, in my personal little (fictional, bc I know and understand 0 about real life physics or whatever would be relevant for this) multiverse theory, there are an infinite number of universes, evenly spread around the multiverse, and a new universe comes into existence when a timeline/universe (same thing) can go into 2 seperate ways naturally, or when there is timetravel involved to manually change a timeline: The original timeline won't be affected, you can't change what's already there, but a new changed timeline will be created.

Now, in some cases that works out well, with the timetraveller ending up in the new timeline and never knowing that their original universe is still out there- in other ways of time travelling, not so much. If the person trying to make a change manages to do just that but never notices, because they or a version of them is stuck in the orginal timeline, what do they do?

Try again, with the same result, many many times.

And that's where it gets problematic, because the multiverse gets unbalanced, and whether you see it as a sentient entity connected to the Qs in Star Trek or just as something that Works That Way automatically: the multiverse doesn't want to be out of balance, so the new universes start to collapse in on each other, creating a Splitter-verse and leaving its inhabitants to a fate arguably worse than death (in this fictional world): they completely stop to exist. This doesn't just affect the new universes but the surroundings ones, which would have split earlier and are already more different from each other, too, to make sure the one that was the cause for it all falls, too.

Now (of course, because I can't help myself) this would be part of @thelucyverse , with there being Central people trained in spotting such time anomalies before it is too late, but with there also being time-bombs (yeah hahah) created in inter-universal wars to create smaller, controlled splitter-verses (I say small and controlled here but like. We're still talking about entire universes), and with Central having back-up plans to get people out of the 'verses, in order as follows: anyone visibly IDing as Central (the organisation is still largely volunteer-based, shit's got to have some perks), then everyone whose energy indicates recent travel in-between universes, as these are also most likely to a) be Central and b) be okay in a new 'verse, after that, if there is still time and anyone willing to go back into the falling universe, children as they are also more likely to adapt in a new world. If there is enough warning, they also get out whoever people Central members want to have saved, but usually it just turns into whoever stands close enough to grab and get the hell out of there.

Whether taking people out of a universe against their will is a good thing or nah is ...debatable and still being debated amongst those who do it and those who think that taking someone away from the possibility of dying death in their own universe is vile (as amongst most religions, it is thought that you can only reach the same afterlife as those who died in the same umiverse- but again most also think that there probably won't even Be an afterlife in a splitter-verse).

Sometimes, people are also pushed out of the universe by the explosion itself, but they then tend to die upon impact as they seldomly end up exactly at the coordinates where they left, which leaves them either suffocating in hard matter or in space.

If you want to use these ideas for your own fanfic feel free, just give me credit and link this post as inspired by/ link to my ao3 or @ my tumblr!

Anyhow! To Star Trek... and I suppose this is now SPOILERS not rly for any Star Trek canon but for these fanfics, if I do end up writing them!

I tend to forget which characters are canon and which are complete OCs because I spend Way more hours on tumblr and ao3 + thinking about my own headcanons than I spend consuming the original media, but I am fairly certain a canon Joana McCoy, daughter of Leonard 'Bones' McCoy exists? If no and I stole the idea from sb else's fanfic I am sincerely sorry. Gotta look that up.

In one universe close to what would be the centre of the splitterverse, Joana- as a young child nicknamed 'Jojo', but now as a young teen trying to get rid of the childish nickname- has a younger part-vulcan girl as a friend, and this girl, nicknamed Aka, has, through having sticky fingers and connections to Central, a device that allows you to jump between universes. She's used it before and gotten into a lot of trouble for it, but to her it had always been great fun- until reality is starting to collapse around them while she is visiting Joana, and Joana is the only person she can reach in time and take with her to the next universe.

Distraught, the children are left in a new world, debating what to do, waiting for Central to contact them, hoping that they saved their families- but of course, Central has quite some different problems right now and won't contact them any time soon, and even if they did it wouldn't be with news of their parents: the adult families of non-Central members who only happened to have jumped between universes before themselves are really not the top priority, and the universe is collapsing too quickly to even get down the prio list to 'children',

Aka wants to leave the universe again and look for Central elsewhere, hoping that her moving around will attract their attention. Joana has enough from universe jumps for a lifetime. Thus, they part ways.

While Aka at some point does run into a group of Central troubeshooters who more or less adopt her as one of their own and teach her how to work their equipment and use magic and weapons and starships (not what a child her age should be learning. But then, none of the adults there ever signed up to be a parent, so who's to blame them), Joana goes looking for her family in this world.

Now I could write entire novels about Akas adventures and how it may or may not be healthy to not have a home at all and decide to not rely on anybody instead of either finding new versions of her original parents or letting someone new into her life properly (spoileralert: it isn't healthy at all), and how meeting a girl from one of the original splitter-verses (the not bombed ones) telling her not to make the same mistakes she made finally makes her think about her choices and and and, but this post is already going to be Long so I won't. That would all be a seperate fanfic anyways.

Joana finds a girl her age who looks just like her and acts almost exactly like her, too- the only difference seems to be that there's no Aka around, which made this version of her less used to adventure but also less wary of it.

The version of Joana from this universe- she decides to call herself Joan when they are alone, while the Joana we already know goes with 'Jojo'- her once loathed childhood nickname now a connection to her past- is thrilled to meet her and begs her to stay, I mean what is cooler than suddenly having a twin, and won't it be fun there is so much they can do! As their parents are seperated, they manage to spend their time mostly at one of their homes, either together when the parent is too busy to notice that there are two kids around, or one at each place, guessing correctly that if the parents were to talk about it, they wouldn't even think of the possibility of there being two children and instead just get mad at each other.

This goes on for a few months during the summer, with Jojo feeling vaguely guilty both to her original dead parents and these new ones who think that she is their real daughter, and the girls are just deciding about what to do when school starts again when-

Reality breaks apart around them.

Jojo clings to Joan in fear, and- as Jojo is now on the list of people who have travelled between universes in the past, she is saved by Central, and Joan with her. They are placed into a universe further away this time, a safe distance to the only slowly contained Splitters.

Meanwhile, in the same universe, two people were currently out on a space-walk: Michael Burnham and Philippa Georgiou.

They are thrown out of the universe in the explosion, and as they are wearing their suits, they survive as they end up somewhere in space again, but- they don't end up in the same universe. Michael ends up about 20-30 years earlier in a universe further away, and she doesn't even end up in what would've been federation space in her old 'verse. Philippa is only thrown one universe to the left and picked up by Central. As Central likes to name their acquaintances in some way that makes it easier to identify just which version of a person you are talking to without having to add the long universe number (even harder when the universe was destroyed and there isn't a known number), they ask Philippa to pick a new name. She is way too rattled and desperate to go looking for Michael as quickly as possible to care about what name she is supposed to have, so she goes with the first option given to those who don't have their own nickname ideas: lastname for firstname, making her Georgiana, short Gia.

Through Central, she finds out that the universal explosion left her and Michael connected- but it won't be much help in the search, basically just a way to say 'alright this verse is closer to it than that one', it's still trial and error... (I could also involve some body switching here, idk I already wrote a long fanfic with that trope in the Andromaquynh fandom, but I happen to Like that trope so yeah maybe I'll recycle some parts of In Your Stead if I ever do manage to write this Milippa story. Which, btw, if not already obvious, would again be a seperate fic from the Joana universal-sister story. On the other hand, Aka runs into Georgiana a lot, even calling her 'auntie Gia').

Meanwhile, Michael doesn't have to jump through universes but make her way through just the one universe to get to federarion space. Except what she find's isn't the federation at all... you guessed it, the 'verse she ended up in is more similar to a mirrorverse than to Prime. However, the Georgiou of this world isn't the emperor yet, she's young and Michael is able to influence her enough over the years so that she turns her back to the Empire.

Yes, it takes years for Michael and Gia to find their way back to each other, maybe decades... they also wouldn't have spent exactly the same amount of time apart as they aren't in the same 'verse. In fact, Cleo of Central carefully tells Gia that Michael might have died by now, but of course Georgiana doesn't want to hear this.

Michael and that universe's Georgiou also get quite close, though Michael doesn't want to cheat on her Philippa... of course, after years of this, she might think that she will never see Philippa again... (We are approaching ot3 territory here lol, and I don't even want to think about the potential of ot7 with the two canon mirror and prime versions adsfghjkl because if I finish this story here, I would 100% write a lil fix it where Central! Gia Mikay and Phil go fish Mirror! Michael and Georgiou out of a splitter-verse into the next prime verse in which Michael already knows that Georgiou... and ad they're already at it they also get half dead! Prime Philippa away from the Klingons... heheh sounds like the kind of poly chaos I would enjoy writing, but sadly I have to make it through all the Plot first)

Anyway! Back to Jojo and Joan: they decide that while they maybe should have told Joan's family about Jojo's existence soon if they had stayed in that 'verse, the initial idea of staying with one's universals wasn't so bad, so they go looking for this universe's Joana McCoy. The girl- (nicknamed Anna, which makes Joan decide to change hers from Joan to June because she doesn't want to be half Jojo and half Anna), is happy enough to meet them, but often feels left out from the other two as they act as if they've known each other forever even though of course it's only been a few months... In turn, Jojo and June aren't sure whether Anna really wants them around, whether she might think they're trying to steal her life and family from her...

Lots of potential for conflict! Yay! XD would of course come to a happy ending, with at least Bones accepting his three daughters, dunno yet whether they'd tell the mom... also Aka ends up in the same universe at some point, together with a version of her vulcan birthmother who she had never known the original version of but now gets along with alright... oh and if I do write aforementioned Milippa ot7 bullshitery, this would also be the Prime!verse for that, so all stories in the series or collection interconnect again!

this got... long... and I could obviously go on but I need to go back to writing my Bachelor thesis :(

@whoever read through all of this, do let me know whether you like these ideas and which you would like to read proper fanfic for! Might influence future writing decisions.

[dast218]

Days that turned into months and eventually years - Pt 4

Pt 1 Pt 2 Pt 3

** I see Damian as cold, at times irrational and a type that won’t think straight after years of being essentially lied to. (He definitely possess hidden love and kindness as well)

I was debating on whether or not to post this but here goes nothing - DLDR

------

Marinette felt numb. Thoughts were uncontrollably rushing through her mind without any direct path. It had to be a dream, it just had too. Right? Her mind is playing tricks with her. No way is that actually Damian. No way would her lover be standing at arms reach. If she dared to stretch out would his form evaporate into thin air? She wanted to test out her theory but at the same time was too afraid to let go of the possibility of him being here, even if it was just a fluke.  

Memories were rapidly flashing, hitting her senses hard. Moments of happy times spent together, days of cuddling in bed, late night adventures, playful bantering with the Waynes, family pranks and their last fight. A feeling of failure suddenly hit her like a train wreck. The dark-haired women couldn’t move, as in the background she saw the faces of those who she cherished  judging her for not fighting harder, mocking her weak attempts of escaping and laughing at her current predicament. What kind of hero does it make Ladybug if she can’t even protect herself? Marinette felt herself shrinking. 

On the other side of the door Damian wasn’t doing any better. He just stared at the doorway, without exhibiting any clear emotion. His face was pale. Was Marinette’s ghost hunting him? But why does it feel so real? Is it really her? He wasn’t able to catch a single clear thought as the reality was crashing into him. What was he supposed to do when someone who he accepted as dead was standing in real flesh and soul right across from him? His body and mind felt hopeless as no answer arose.       

Both of the adults were desperately stuck in their minds until a small and gentle voice  interrupted. As Damian looked down he saw a girl slightly younger than Thomas tugging Marinette’s long sleeves. The resemblance between the two was disturbingly transparent. The young child’s long dark hair was tied into a high ponytail, her blue eyes were glistening with concern as her darker skin complexion was elicited by the setting sun.  

“Mom you ok? Father asked me to come check”

Marinette visibility paled but kept her composure with a soft “I am fine go back inside” 

That short exchange stopped Damian dead in his steps once again. Did he just hear mom and dad come out of the mouth of the girl who looks almost exactly like Marinette? FATHER?! Before his mind was able to spiral down into the deep hole of misery and confusion a new figure stepped into the frame. 

A well dressed, dark haired man with a seemingly gentle smile walked up to the entrance. At his arrival he wrapped his arms around Marinette and kissed her on the cheeks without receiving any response. Marinette stood there lost in thought. Holding up his free hand he announced his presence.   

“Good evening Mr. Wayne its a pleasure meeting my new business partner. I am Andrew Dobronski and this is my wife Mrs. Dobronski.”   

Mr. Dobronski pointing and calling Marinette his wife was the last straw. Damian saw red. He lived through all these years of grieving, all these years of trying to think positively, all these years of telling Thomas that his mother loves him and is watching from heaven just to witness her finding someone else. What kind of stupid game is the universe playing? His wife, his goddamn wife is standing with some stranger wrapped around her ALIVE! Could he still call her his wife, after all it looks like she married again to some richass billionaire. Was the kidnapping just for show? Couldn’t she just tell him off like a normal human being? Damian couldn’t. His emotions were running wild, screaming to escape. Built up rage and the remains of the Lazarus Pit magic were arguing with his soul to be let out. Inside he was fighting to remain in control.

Damian might have won the battle, walked back peacefully and took his time to rethink his feelings like he had learned to do over the past years if it hadn’t been for the slick comment of the billionaire. In the near future he would regret his words. 

“Mr. Wayne is everything alright? I hope that my wife hasn’t offended you while I was busy inside.” 

Something in Damian snapped and everything exploded. Looking directly at Marinette his inner thoughts released in a high range fury.  

Marinette felt the urge to fight back but as she opened her mouth the hands around her tightened. The billionaire's nails dug into her skin as she fought the impulse to grin in pain. There was a clear and silent message: Don’t you dare say anything if you know what's better for you. In return Marinette stared at the rose bush outside, trying and failing to cancel out Damian’s voice. Her inter thoughts kept reminding her that she deserved his wrath after abandoning their son at the mere age of one. 

If Damian was more observant and in full control of his emotions, he might have noticed their interaction and figured out what was happening much earlier.  

They stood there one screaming, one looking away and the other slightly smirking for what felt like hours.

--------- 

In a venom filled voice Damian stated, “I am done here. Good night.” 

As Damian was walking away, he came to an abrupt stop when Mr. Dobronski called out. Looking back he saw the billionaire approaching him leaving behind a stunned Marinette. 

“Now that you have taken care of your personal business can we discuss the business accept of your trip. This partnership is especially important for the International Wayne Industry.” 

Damian stared dumbfounded. This guy really thinks that I care right now. I want to get out of here.

“I have some errands to run… You can contact one of my brothers to fill in my spot.” 

“Very well.” 

---------

Leaning back on the door, Marinette closed her eyes and shrugged into herself as she was trying to hold back the tears that were about to spill. ‘Hold it in, you already did it so many times. Keep it up. Don’t show a sign of weakness, don’t allow him to win.’ She kept repeating the rehearsed speech to herself while trying to calm down.

Pushing all her emotions aside she reluctantly looked up just to be directly facing a smirking billionaire.  

“You invited him on purpose” 

“So I see you liked my surprise. How it is like losing the last person you cared about, someone who was supposed to love you till the end.” 

Marinette deflated with that punch to her heart but picked herself up quickly. Stepping aside she started moving away from the older man and suddenly felt a strong force pushing her back. He grabbed her hands, slammed her body on the rigid wall and held her hands above her head. 

“Now listen to me little lady. Under my roof you are going to look at me when I speak and wait until I give you permission to walk away. Do I make myself clear” Receiving a small node he continued, “I hope that after Mr. Wayne’s lovely speech which might I add had gone a hundred times better than expected, you will get your head out of the gutter. Now I thought you had plans for later tonight, better start getting everything ready.”       

Rubbing her left wrist Marinette followed him deeper into the mansion.   

Its better not to get Damian or his family involved in this. Just let it go Marinette, its for the best. There's no say what Andrew and the rest would do to them.

--------- 

Sorry not sorry. In the plot’s defense, Damian had a lot of built up emotions and was in big shock. The kiss and word wife triggered it all to explode. And Marinette isn’t in the best headspace right now. 

Damian had a chance to split his heart out, so now it's only fair that Marinette has the same. It's been awhile since she was able to yell at someone. (Possible next chapter spoiler).  

Tag List:

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[faelune-home]

FFXIV Write 2020 #22: Argy-bargy

(A/N: Good god what was this prompt. XD I managed to scrape something together at least.

Nothing notable to mention here - that I can think of while posting. Set during 5.1-.2 era Some downtime between it all while everyone’s chilling at the Crystarium.

Also catch me trying to use Urianger in my fics but also not having him talk as much as he could cos what is his dialogue style, I don’t trust myself with that. :’D halp

Word Count: 1452

@ffxiv-writers)

“I am an only child.” Fufu chuckled at Alisaie’s exaggerated groan into the table, having just entered the Wandering Stairs after a peruse at the market stalls.

“Hmm, I’m pretty sure you had a brother last I checked.”

“If he continues being an embarrassment, he’s disowned,” the girl huffed, finally sitting up properly. And with a nod of her head toward the garden outside the Pendants, the miqo’te bit back another giggle at the sight.

Alphinaud and Urianger appeared to be in the midst of a very vigorous discussion, one that seemed to have generated a small crowd near the fringes of the area - by the entrance to the inn, milling around the market stairs, lingering at the gate to the Exedra plaza. All eagerly curious, yet warily keeping their distance. And in amidst it all, Ryne sat unperturbed at the foot of a tree, giving scritches to a very content looking Moonstone Carbuncle sitting on her lap, while an Amber Carbuncle slept beside her.

“Oh, it’s been a while since I’ve seen Urianger’s carbuncle,” Fufu noted, as though blind to the rest of the scene. She bit back a smile at Alisaie’s puffed up cheeks.

“That’s not the point here and you know it. The two of them are rambling on and on about all sorts of academic nonsense, and no doubt everyone here is curious about what they’re talking about, but not a soul here seems to want to even talk to ‘the vaunted Warriors of Darkness’.” She rolled her eyes.

Fufu’s ear flicked and she shrugged. “I can see why people here might be curious about the topic. I don’t think I’ve seen anyone perform arcanima or any similar abilities while we’ve been here. Your brother aside of course.”

“Of course,” the elezen grumbled. Then with an exasperated sigh, throwing her head back, she added, “I’d just rather that they either took this somewhere private where people wouldn’t be ogling, or they acknowledge their little audience and maybe...I don’t know, offer to teach? Although I can’t imagine either of them being able to simplify it enough for unfamiliar folk to understand.”

Fufu gave the girl a pat on the shoulder, saying, “Well, while you wallow over this, I’ll go see Ryne, find out how this happened and how we can steer it into something useful other than just them taking up floor space.”

Descending the stairs into the garden area and slipping unnoticed past the chattering scholars, Fufu spared a wave and a smile to a portion of the crowd. A few young children waved back eagerly, however the adults were more hesitant to return the gesture.

She finally joined the young hume at the tree, sitting alongside her with a smile, giving Moonstone a scratch under the chin, making it purr. Amber roused briefly to peek over the younger girl’s lap, however opted to curl up tighter and keep sleeping at the sight of the miqo’te.

“So what happened?” Fufu asked. Ryne gave a bemused smile as she said, “I asked Alphianud how carbuncles worked, in terms of summoning and behaviours, since I’ve never seen them before. He got Urianger to help with explaining, but it got a bit off track. I couldn’t follow after a while.”

“Don’t worry, I understand the feeling. But I do think we should have them break this up now or take it somewhere else. They’ve attracted a crowd and I don’t think they’ve realised, but Alisaie has and she’s a bit put off by it.” As Ryne giggled, Fufu got to her feet, her tail flicking on Moonstone’s nose and earning a chirp in response, before walking over to the elezen duo.

“--the caster’s aether would carry all the finer points of the construct’s makeup, including any semblance of personality or habit--”

“--And I’m not arguing against that,” the younger boy interrupted, “All I’m saying is that there has to be more to any learned behaviour, unless the one creating the summon is unconsciously including additional behaviours in their equations.” 

A clap from the approaching Warrior silenced whatever response Urianger was preparing, taking them both aback at the intrusion. She smiled. “This all sounds pretty neat, I’m not gonna lie, but I think you both got a little off topic. Or at least didn’t notice your audience getting a little curious.” They both looked self-conscious as they finally noticed the throng around them, even with the people beginning to disperse as the discussion was brought to an end. Some few lingered still, casting glances at the group while whispering amongst themselves.

“How exactly did this all start?” Fufu inquired.

Alphinaud was the one to answer first. “Ryne asked as to the finer points about Carbuncles, so I tried to explain. I managed to cover the basic duties one would perform, then to formation and summoning. Basic equations any beginner could accomplish, if she were so curious to try, then I decided to include Urianger in the demonstration as an example of something more personal alongside mine own.”

“Tis unfortunate then that as our conference would alienate others less versed in the field of arcanima as we two dove deeper into the makings and formulations of such creatures,” the older man added, followed by a frown from Alphinaud as he finished, “And even more so that we ended up debating over a summon’s behaviour and whether it is learned or imprinted during the summoning.”

Fufu hummed, tapping her cheek in thought. “Soooo, like if a Carbuncle would like scritches or not? Whether they’d learn that on their own or if their summoner would deliberately put that information into them?”

With an amused smile, Urianger nodded. “Aye, that would be a suitable example.”

“Well, I’m not gonna question either of you two, but whichever ‘academic answer’ you would reach, I’d argue both your own Carbuncles are a bit partial to a friendly hand giving pets,” the woman chuckled, and both scholars turned their attentions to Ryne by the tree, giving both summons scratches by the ears.

Noticing the stares, Ryne stood and joined them, both carbuncles trotting along beside her before sitting obediently by their own masters. The girl bowed her head, wearing a sheepish smile.

“I’m sorry I wasn’t paying much attention,” she said with a bow. 

“Not at all, I do understand that we may have been talking above a beginner’s understanding. Tis our own fault really,” the boy responded, a hand on her shoulder.

“Mayhap twould be best to start anew, to teach a proper lesson instead of making use of overwrought studies unavailable to the citizens of this star.”

The younger ones nodded at Urianger’s suggestion, while Fufu added, her ears upright, “That sounds like a good idea. And while you’re at it, you can include some others in the Crystarium if they’re interested. I know the ones over there still look pretty fascinated.” She gestured to a small collective by the Pendants, all of them suddenly looking away as attentions were drawn their way.

“An excellent proposition. I’ll go and extend the offer to them, and perhaps perform a sweep of the Crystarium for any other curious folk.” Alphinaud wandered off to the nervous group, while Urianger volunteered to prepare a study plan for any keen students the scholars would amass, carbuncles going with their respective summoners, leaving Fufu and Ryne alone at the garden.

They reentered the Wandering Stairs, finding a more relaxed Alisaie sipping on some water at the table.

“I sorted it,” Fufu announced, while the girl smiled, “I noticed. My thanks.”

“I’ll be interested to learn about this,” Ryne said, “Even if I can’t take to it entirely well, even having basic knowledge would be handy.” With her eyes shining at the miqo’te woman, she added, “I’d like to follow your example with this. Widening my repertoire for the future.”

Fufu’s ear flicked, a blush spreading across her cheeks. “I appreciate that, but you don’t need to credit me for the idea.”

“Oh don’t listen to her,” Alisaie huffed, waving a hand at Fufu’s comment, “You couldn’t have picked a better role model. Maybe better teachers, but they’re the only ones here that know anything about arcanima. But you let me know if they go too fast for you or anyone else here, and I’ll give them a talking to.”

“I will, thank you,” Ryne nodded.

“And besides,” fufu added, smile broadening, “if you wanted to try any other trades, feel free to ask. I’m sure Alisaie here wouldn’t mind teaching a little bit.”

The elezen shrugged, smiling all the same. “Perhaps I might.”

Ryne gawped at the offer, her eyes sparkling. She nodded. “Then whatever you can teach me, I’m ready and willing!”