#sudden my voice goes up three octaves and every other word is please like I’m begging them to forgive me for the transgression of being

[madigoround]

You’ve heard of weaponized incompetence, now introducing weaponized femininity: my customer service voice

[yodawgiherd]

Scars that time can't heal

>>>Read on AO3<<<

Rating: M Setting: A modern AU, an Ex-Soldier Mikasa dealing with her inner demons.

I've got this idea to do a short story in what is basically the setting of my main fic with just a few modifications. It's something new, and I would really love to hear what you guys think about it. If you like it, I might do a continuation, as this thing could certainly be expanded. Thanks a lot and Enjoy! :D

Lights. Voices. Pain.

Every breath Mikasa took prompted a thousand needles inside her to prick and tear, to create more and more of the suffering. She would cry if she could. She would scream if she could. But she couldn’t.

Mikasa couldn’t do anything.

They were taking her somewhere, formless faces and blurred figures, talking in voices that were drowned in the rush of blood in her ears. It wasn’t that hard to realize what was happening to her. Mikasa was dying, plain and simple.

A figure appeared to the right of her, catching up to the others, a face that seemed somewhat familiar. Could it be… ?

“Jean?”, Mikasa rasped, every syllable dearly paid for by more pain.

The figure leaned closer, revealing its face.

“Mikasa! Mikasa can you hear me?!”, his hand grasped hers, tightly squeezing the numb fingers, “Hang in there!”

She wanted to tell him to shut up, to just let her die in peace, but another coughing fit overcame her. The movement stopped. Hands lifted her for a moment before depositing the hurt soldier on a proper hospital bed, already smelling of someone else’s blood which soon mixed with the stench of her own, still gushing from the wounds on her body, leaking through the impromptu bandages. Mikasa could see Jean’s head moving from left to right as he looked around, desperate to find someone that would help her, but to no avail. She wasn’t that surprised, the sudden attack took them completely by surprise, catching the US military with their pants down. There must have been dozens of dead, hundreds of wounded, and Mikasa wasn’t that important anyway. Soon, she would be just another casualty of war.

Out of nowhere, another shadow fell over her, as gentle hands ghosted over the bandages.

“What happened?”, a new voice asked.

“A grenade, we didn’t see it coming. Exploded right next to us and….”, Jean’s response was rushed, but quite accurate, “Shrapnel tore into her, fragments…”

“God damn it,”, swore the new voice, “I’m not qualified for this, someone else has to…”

“I’ll take care of her.”

A new voice, young but somewhat rough. Mikasa couldn’t see the speaker, the only thing she could see was the burning tip of the cigarette in his mouth.

“You? Didn’t you hear the captain?”, the unqualified medic cut in, “You’ve been awake for over 24 hours, get some rest before you kill someone!”

“I said I’ll take care of her,”, said the cigarette, “Now either help me or get out of my way.”

The first shadow still lingered, not ready to give up.

“Listen, there’s no one else available to help her. Look at those wounds, if we wait, she’ll die.”, the rough voice dropped an octave, pleading, “Please, help me save her.”

“Fuck. FUCK. Fine!”, the first guy finally gave in, “What do you need me to do?”

“Take off her clothes, get some local anesthesia…”

“Local?”

“We can’t put her under, if she goes to sleep…”

“I won’t wake up.”, Mikasa finished for the rough voice, weakly.

Her head was swimming at this point, the only thing that was keeping her anchored in reality was Jean’s grip on her hand, feeling so warm against the coldness that began to spread its fingers through her body. The second shadow leaned over her, the burning cigarette tip bright as a sun.

“Hey there marine.”, said the rough voice, accompanied in the background by snipping of the scissors, as the other guy was working on removing the ruined remnants of Mikasa’s uniform, “What’s your name?”

Even saying her own name was a task that felt impossible.

“M-Mik…Mikasa.”, she finally pushed out. So tired.

“That’s a beautiful name, soldier. Can I drop the formalities and call you Mikasa?”

She nodded, her bloodied lips turning slightly up. It was funny, being talked to so formally at her own deathbed, but she really liked the way the cigarette pronounced her name. He didn’t choke on the second syllable, as a lot of people do, even Jean had trouble getting it correctly at the start. Not this guy though, whoever he was, he aced it the first time around.

“All right,” he continued, “Now do you know what’s going to happen?”

She swallowed, the coldness spreading further from her wounds. They used to burn, just fifteen minutes past, but the agony was gone, replaced by cold numbness. It wasn’t hard to guess what was going on.

“I’ll die.”, she stated.

The burning tip swung left and right, as whoever was smoking it shook his head.

“No, you’re not going to die, I won’t let you.”

There was a sharp smell of disinfectant in the air. A snap of latex, as the cigarette guy pulled on a fresh pair of gloves, saying something to his assistant before turning back towards her.

“I’ll pull those fragments out of you, sew you up, and you’ll be better than ever. All right?”

“You can’t… there’s too many.”

The rough voice didn’t even waver as he replied.

“I can do anything I want.”

The cigarette disappeared, replaced by a surgical mask most likely. An instrument exchanged between the two shadows, and a gleaming point neared one of the deep cuts on Mikasa’s body, ready to dig in in search of the invading metal. But before it could make contact, she spoke up again, in a small voice, the fear and lightheadedness taking over.

“Is it going to hurt?”

The instrument stopped, and even when Mikasa couldn’t see his face very clearly, she knew that he was looking straight into her eyes when he replied.

“Like hell.”

Then, the former cigarette smoker pushed the thing in, and the agony returned, most of the world disappearing behind the veil of Mikasa’s pained scream.

Eyes shooting open, she sat up, heart beating wildly in her chest. The way it hammered against her ribs was soon joined by the well-known hammering of a hangover, making Mikasa groan and massage her temples. Well, she wasn’t falling asleep again, that was for sure. Standing up from the bed her foot nicked the bottle next to the bed, empty thank god, and it whirled away before hitting the wall and remaining there, glistening in the moonlight. She could hear music, coming down from below, a certain disadvantage of living above a bar, but hey, she didn’t have to rent. Worth it. Hoping that the headache will recede soon, Mikasa set out for her bathroom, carefully finding her way between the heaps of clothing, empty bottles and other trash that she had to finally get rid of. Reaching the sink, she splashed her face, taking a moment after to look into the mirror.

A visage stared back at her. Pale skinned, boyish short dark hair matted by both sweat and water, dark circles underneath her eyes. Goddamn it, she really did look like shit. The nightmare still lingering in the back of her mind, she inspected the old scar beneath her eye, frowning at it. Everyone said that she was incredibly lucky, if that particular shrapnel fragment flew just a tad bit higher, she would have lost the eye. Lucky huh. Taking a step back, Mikasa knew what she will see but it was still a bitter pill to swallow.

What was merely a nightmare now was a reality, just a few years back. The scars were there, spread across her body, reminders of all the places where the fragments cut into her. She should have died there, on the table, bled out or something, but whoever that cigarette guy was saved her life, pulled her back from the dead. He was no magician though, and making the scars disappear was impossible. They were forever etched into her, a web across her skin, spread everywhere. Mikasa was not scarred only on her abdomen, but over her chest too, and the metal even cut into her legs, grazing the thighs. She liked saying that she came to terms with her injury, but sometimes it still saddened her, the permanent reminder of the explosion, destroying what could have been…

With a sneer, Mikasa turned away from the mirror. What a crybaby she was. Why would It matter that her body was scarred? It was only cosmetic, none of the fragments hit any important muscles or organs, her body was still in peak condition, if not too pleasant to look at. There was no point if thinking about it, she reminded herself, for what felt like a hundred time. It didn’t matter. It didn’t.

Returning to the bed, Mikasa checked the bedtime clock, seeing that there was still plenty of time before her training session. But as sleeping was not an option, she decided to just say fuck it and go anyway, get in a few hours of her own training before Louise comes in. After all, she did have the keys to the gym. Grabbing her leather jacket from where it lay on the only chair in the room, Mikasa took her bike keys and made her way out of the door. Passing the bar, she saw Jean leaning over the wood and talking to some girl with a huge grin on his face, handling it perfectly as usual.

It was a risky idea that they had, pulling all of their money together and buying this place after leaving the army could bite them in the ass, and it was purely Jean’s doing that it didn’t. While Mikasa was only the initial investor, she didn’t do shit for the bar, while Jean was the owner, barman, waiter, accountant, and everything that the establishment required. He handled it all on his own and literally carried the place on his back without a word of complaint. Honestly, he was the best business partner Mikasa could ever ask for.

The gym was exactly as dark as one might expect at three in the morning, and the parking lot in front of it nicely empty. Stopping her bike at the best one, closest to the entrance, Mikasa once again realized that there were still no designated places for the staff. She really should talk to Levi about it.

“You were so amazing! You did like boom, left hook, right hook, and that kick!”

“Louise, please, can you focus on your set?”

“Oh, right sorry!”

Rubbing her forehead, Mikasa watched the younger girl struggle with the weight, doing her best to push it upwards. Being a personal trainer to Louise could be mentally taxing, but she paid so well that Mikasa was willing to put up with it. They came into contact in the weirdest possible way too. After coming back from the war, scarred in both mind and body by the experience, Mikasa had certain anger inside her, one that desperately needed to be let out. And punching the bag didn’t quite soothe her. Yet before she could do something she would come to regret later, Levi approached her with a proposition. There were underground fights taking place in the city, mafia organized, where anyone could enter and beat his opponent nearly to death. Levi took part in those too, back when he was younger and desperately needed the cash to keep both himself and Mikasa out of poverty, and now offered the same chance to his sister. In short, she took it.

Mikasa was doing martial arts basically ever since she learned how to walk, desperate to protect her remaining family after the tragic demise of her parents. Under her brother’s tutelage, she became quite the menace, a fact that came in handy during the fitness tests in the army. Now in these illegal fights, she could finally fully unleash herself. They kept coming at her, because who could ever lose to a girl, right? And she kept beating them, one after the other. It felt great, it allowed her to let out some steam, and it paid well. The dream scenario, really. Those fights were also where she met Louise, her adoring fan.

Louise was a spoiled rich girl desperate to keep herself entertained. She tried everything, every drug, every kind of alcohol, every guy or girl that would go to bed with her. But none of these filled the void inside her chest. That was until she caught wind of the underground fights and went to see them for herself. As luck would have, right the first fight Louise attended was Mikasa’s, and ever since the girl saw her knock the lights out of a hulking beast of a man about three heads taller than her, she fell in love. First thing in the morning, Louise tracked Mikasa to Levi’s gym where she trained and begged her for so long until the former soldier caved in and agreed to train her. That was their partnership. Louise attended all Mikasa’s matches, tirelessly cheered her on, and had personal training sessions with her, endlessly talking about the fights her idol won.

“Do you have any action today? Or tomorrow? Or this week?”, Louise was basically bouncing on her toes with excitement, her sweaty face giving away just how much she loved watching Mikasa fight.

“I don’t think so,”, the raven shrugged, “Gotta check my email after we’re done here and…”

“You have to let me know if there is anything. You will, right? Please?”

She sighed.

“Of course I will, don’t worry. If it wasn’t for you, who would hand me my towel after a match, right?”

How such a simple compliment could make Louise smile so brightly was a mystery to Mikasa, but she had no intention of bursting her trainee’s bubble of happiness.

The bar was basically empty when Mikasa came back from the gym, but that wasn’t much of a surprise. Most of their business happened in the late hours anyway. But how Jean managed to look so rested and ready while being up to the early hours of the morning, now that was not normal. He greeted her with a radiant smile, moving behind the bar with practiced movements. Jean made it look so easy.

“How was your fan meeting today?”

“Grand as always. How’s the bar holding up?”

“Well, I don’t mean to alarm you, but there’s someone special today. Your six .”

Carefully, Mikasa turned her head to the indicated direction, seeing a man sitting by himself. She couldn’t see much of him, just a long hair tied back into a ponytail and his broad back. Looking back at Jean, Mikasa raised an eyebrow.

“And he’s special because….?”

“Because I believe he’s just your type.”, the barman gave her a wink, “Why don’t you head over and talk to him, he looks so sad, sitting there all on his own…”

“Jean.”, Mikasa sighed, “Could you stop trying to hook me up with people?”

“Why should I? Mika, you’ve been alone for years, why don’t you live up a little?”

She frowned at him.

“I do live it up.”

“Getting drunk by yourself every night doesn’t count.”, Jean reached over the bar, putting a hand on her shoulder, “You’re my best friend, a great girl too, and it would make me so happy if I’d see you smile for once.”

“Jean…”, she drawled, but he didn’t let her finish.

“I know a girl who needs some fun when I see one and take this from a guy you used to date, you definitely do.”, he squeezed her shoulder, “Just go talk to him, okay? And if he’s an asshole, then well….”

Letting go of her, Jean flexed his impressive musculature.

“I’ll set him right.”

Mikasa couldn’t help but giggle at that.

“You think I can’t handle him on my own?”

“Please, I’ve seen you fight. I know that you can kick anyone’s ass.”, he said, “I’m just saying that should you need backup, I’ll be right there.”

She knew that Jean wouldn’t stop nagging at her until she gave in, so Mikasa decided to just skip the persuasion phase and do it. Pushing back from the bar, Mikasa smiled at him.

“Thanks, Jean, I appreciate it.”

Walking over to the guy, Mikasa felt a tingle of nervousness up her spine. How does one flirt again?

“Hey.”

Nailed it.

The man looked up, his startlingly green eyes boring into her.

“Hey yourself.”, his gaze traveled all over her, settling back on her face, “Can I help you?”

Riiiiiight.

“I… Uh… I mean….”

You know what, Jean was an asshole. Luckily, before she could embarrass herself further, he offered her an out.

“Can I buy you a drink?”, he asked.

Accepting the invitation, Mikasa sat down, finally taking a good look at him.

“Name’s Eren,”, he said, “If you care to know.”

That made her smile.

“I do. Mine’s Mikasa, by the way.”

“Nice to meet you, Mikasa.”

He had a nice way of pronouncing her name, the way it rolled off his tongue reminded her of someone, but for the love of God couldn’t remember who. With one shot inside her and one more on the way, Mikasa once again picked her brain for a line, something that would say that she’s interested in the guy. She was, to be honest, he had a nice face, pleasing if a bit raspy voice, and from what she could see he was rather well-built too. And the eyes, Mikasa really liked the eyes, the emeralds made her feel all giddy inside.

“So…”, she cleared her throat, “What’s a good-looking guy like yourself doing here all on your own?”

Eren’s face split into a huge grin.

“The delivery of that was amazing, you do that often?”

“Eeeh, not really…”

The bastard had the audacity to be smug.

“Oh? I couldn’t say.”, he said, the irony oozing from his words.

No matter how awkward she was, however, Eren didn’t seem to mind, and their conversation flowed. Somehow, they managed to completely avoid talking about themselves, and even when it was dark outside and the bar began to fill, the only thing they knew was each other’s names.

“I hate to be that guy,”, Eren said, looking over her shoulder, “But I have to ask, is the barman your boyfriend?”

“My boyfriend?”, following Eren’s gaze, Mikasa saw Jean cleaning the glasses with the most innocent expression he ever had. “No, not that. He’s my ex.”

“And you parted on good terms?”

“The best. Why?”

“Well, he keeps throwing glances our way, so I’m just wondering if I’m not hitting on someone’s girl.”

“Oh, so you’re hitting on me now?”

A small smile appeared on Eren’s face.

“What if I am?”

Instead of an answer, Mikasa returned his smile, downing her shot right after. The place was popular, and they were quite a few drinks deep at this point, so it was getting increasingly hard to understand what Eren was saying. It was annoying.

“How about we take this upstairs.”, Mikasa suggested, “I live right above the bar and…”

The realization of what she just suggested struck her, and she was left staring at Eren’s face, who looked back at her with an unchanging expression.

“Are you sure about that?”, he said, slowly, making sure that she understands.

She did, but no reason why to back down occurred to her. Jean was right, after all, she would like to have some fun.

“Yes.”, she held his gaze without flinching, “Yes I am.”

Seemingly on board, Eren nodded, finished his drink and stood up.

“We better get going then.”

It felt rather unreal, leading him up the stairs. The last glimpse of the bar showed her Jean, who was giving her a thumbs up, making her frown at him. The key jingled in the lock as Mikasa pushed the door open, silently cursing in her mind the fact that she still hasn’t cleaned up her apartment. Luckily, Eren didn’t seem much interested in the place, as his hands almost immediately found her hips and then he was kissing her, her lips hungry on hers. Judging from how quickly he coaxed her mouth open, Eren was an experienced kisser, and his tongue knew what to do. Mikasa moaned weakly, her legs feeling like jelly, drunk on both alcohol and him. Fuck, she really wanted this, needed this. But when Eren’s hand went to her shirt, trying to lift it up, the sirens went off in her head.

No, she couldn’t let him remove it, he would see the scars if he did. And there was no way he wouldn’t get disgusted by what she was hiding. With a shove, stronger than intended, Mikasa pushed him away, much to Eren’s surprise.

“What is…?”

She didn’t let him finish, turning around instead and bending over the foot of the bed, offering him her backside. Face down, ass up, that’s what men liked anyway.

“Do me like this.”, she ordered, looking over her shoulder, “Come on.”

It was a damn sexy ass, Eren had to say.

“Yeah…”, he nodded, quickly catching on “Okay…”

With their combined efforts, they undid Mikasa’s belt pushing down her pants and underwear just enough. After that, Eren was quick to find a condom in his wallet, pulling down his zipper and putting it on with practiced movement. He really was no beginner in this. Not that Mikasa cared, however, all she craved was to feel that nice, big cock inside her, so wiggling her hips, she all but purred at him.

“Are you gonna stare all evening or are you finally going to fuck me?”

Eren chuckled behind her, his hand moving over her exposed firm flesh.

“With an ass like this, only a fool wouldn’t take that invitation.”, the thrust took her by surprise, as Eren buried his whole impressive length inside her in one move, forcing her to cry out. His mouth at her ear, he growled.

“And I’m no fool.”

Quickly overwhelmed, Mikasa couldn’t do much, only moan and fist the bedding as Eren fucked her, hard and deep, her eyes rolling back. It was too much, too much, and her world was coming apart at the seams. Demonstrating a surprising amount of self-control, Eren always slowed down when he was close, mindful of her pleasure, a trait not that common during a one-night stand. It gave her ample time to build herself up, writing around on the bed while he kept thrusting at a steady pace, fully in control.

“You’re so fucking tight, it feels so good,”, he whispered into her ear, his voice deep and primal, “I love the way your pussy massages my cock, baby.”

His tempo sped up again, the sound of skin slapping skin mixing with the increasingly loud moans he forced from her. Muscles winding tighter and tighter, Mikasa was on the brink, just waiting to be pushed over.

“That’s right..”, he growled, pinning her down to the bed, “Cum for me! I want you to squirt all over my cock.”

As if her body followed his orders, Mikasa came, muffling her scream into the bedding. And still he wouldn’t stop, fucking her through her orgasm, milking all the pleasure from her quivering, dripping pussy. She was completely done, feeling fucked beyond imagining when Eren couldn’t hold back anymore, coming inside the rubber with another groan. Quick to pull out, Mikasa whimpered a bit at the sudden feeling of emptiness. She was slumped on the bed now, nothing holding her up, warm and completely satisfied, much more content than she felt in a long, long time.

Eren was moving around, discarding the condom and zipping up his pants, suddenly restless. If Mikasa didn’t have her face squished in the bed, she would see that his face was filled with something close to regret, a clarity that wasn’t there before.

“I… I think I should go..”, he said, eyeing her fallen form.

Mikasa shrugged, not really caring anymore. Tired, exhausted by his intensity, by how well he fucked her, she was sure that this night’s sleep would be peaceful, the nightmares wouldn’t come. Mikasa got what she wanted, and the desired fun was much, much better than she ever expected, positively blowing her mind. She used him, more or less, used this random guy for her pleasure, and now that he’s done his thing the fact that he was leaving on his own was amazing. Didn’t even have to throw him out.

“Just close the door behind you.”, Mikasa yawned, turning around on the bed and pulling the covers over her body. She could remove her clothes later, once she will be alone and there would be no chance of Eren seeing her scars. No need to scare the guy, he served her well.

“Right… I…”, a sigh, followed by silence. Whatever he wanted to say, Eren ultimately decided against it, and hearing the click of the door, Mikasa knew that she’s alone.

Again.

[stardusttrashed]

Extra G.D

Summary: Grayson ‘Extra’ Dolan decides to finally tell the fans he’s dating Y/n

Word Count: 2K+

Y/n looked in the mirror, repositioning the strand of hair that didn’t quite want to comply like the others. Her fingers toyed with the strand for what felt like the hundredth time in the past minute. And of course, it still wouldn’t fall in line with the others. Her nerves were getting the best of her despite all of Grayson’s encouraging words from the past week. Every attempt to busy herself to push her mind elsewhere wouldn’t avail the situation.

“It looks perfect princess,” Grayson whispered with a kiss to the shell of her ear- his arms securing their place around her waist. “You look absolutely- .” She hadn’t even noticed him walk up behind her, too engrossed in trying to make sure she looked picture perfect.

“Gorgeous,” Y/n finished his sentence in a defeated voice. “You tell me that everyday Gray. Even when I look like death,” she chuckled dryly. Her eyes shifted to meet his adoring gaze in the mirror.

Grayson laughed quietly, pulling her flush against him, “well I mean it. Every time. You take my breath away every day Y/n. There isn’t a single day that goes by that I don’t think you look like an angel- scratch that, a goddess.” His lips curled up into a smile as he watched her roll her eyes and fight the blushy smile begging to come out. “And that’s exactly why I wanted to do this.”

“Are you sure it’s not just ‘cause your that ‘I invented being extra’ headass boyfriend?” Y/n cut in again, loving the small blush that’d bless his cheeks whenever she’d tease him. She squirmed in his grasp as he squeezed her side while glaring at her playfully- causing an awkward giggle mingled with a squeal to escape her lips. “I’m Grayson Bailey Dolan and regular selfies with my girl are too basic for me,” she continued, dropping her voice a few octaves to mimic his.

“You’re damn right they are. Especially when I plan on finally telling the fans you’re so much more than my friend. So, yes, I will be that extra boyfriend until the day you finally marry me.” He left a trail of kisses up from her shoulder to her neck, his plump lips gliding across her skin from one kiss to the next. “And then I’ll be your extra husband,” he added with a cheeky grin that made his whiskey eyes seem more like honey.

Y/n twisted around in his arms quickly before landing her hand on his chest with a quiet smack. Her embarrassed laughter only made his smile grow wider- the melodious tone filling the bathroom quickly.

“Okay okay! I can go ask E to take the pictures if that makes you feel better.” Grayson rubbed circles into the small of her back as his eyes searched hers for an answer- the way they softened notifying him of her approval before her lips relayed the message.

“As long as he’s not using a phone again,” she smiled as she reached up to cup his stubbly jaw- something she had to spend nearly a week trying to convince him to keep. “ ‘Cause last time we asked half of the pictures were of him.”

“You liked those and you know it,” Ethan cut in, leaning in the doorway of the bathroom. “Why am I being brought up again?”

“Gray wants to know if you’ll take pictures for us. He hired a photographer but- .”

“Wait. You were for real about that,” Ethan exclaimed, a dorky smile forming on his lips. “I thought you were joking when you told me about it. Can’t you just post old pictures and let the fans know.” Ethan looked over at Grayson’s deadpanned face, unsure whether his teasing or his suggestion was the cause of it. “Fine, I’ll go change,” Ethan grumbled, “ but only because I like Y/n so much.” He walked off before quickly dipping his head back into the bathroom, interrupting the two leaning in for what he assumed was another round of kisses. “Do I get a matching outfit too?”

Y/n gasped with excitement, practically bouncing on the balls of her feet as she looked up a Grayson with big pleading eyes. “That’d be super cute! Have us all matching for at least one picture- oh or for next Tuesday’s video!”

“I was totally joking, but now we have to. Are you seeing how excited she is?”

“Yeah Grayson Extra Dolan, please.”

Grayson looked back and forth between his smug brother and childishly excited girlfriend, weighing both possible answers in his mind before nodding reluctantly.

“We could wear the Dolan merch since I’m pretty sure that the only matching outfits we have. Unless you want to just pick a color.”

“Color,” Ethan exclaimed without a second thought. “I can’t have you two lovebirds messin’ up my style.” He ignored Y/n’s blatant eye roll and hushed ‘whatever’.

Y/n looked up at Grayson once again, waiting for his input on the idea. Her fingers lazily toyed with the hair at the nape of his neck, gently running her fingers through the short strands. The sudden tension in his shoulders due to Ethan’s harmless poking hadn’t gone unnoticed. His internal struggle between giving in and wanting to stand against him was crystal clear. And she tried every way she could think of to let him know she noticed without outright saying it. Grayson smiled tenderly, appreciating her quiet attempts to soothe him.

Just as Y/n opened her mouth to suggest not going through with all three of them matching Grayson finally spoke up, hooking his fingers with her own. “Red? I like the way my girl looks in red.” He smirked down at Y/n for a moment before looking over at Ethan just in time to catch him rolling his eyes. He puffed his chest up proudly before swooping her up into his arms, guiding her legs to wrap around his waist.

“Hey, leave the sickening cute stuff for later when we take pictures,” Ethan grumbled as he dragged his feet off to his room.

“Trust me we’ve got more than enough.”

Y/n nuzzled her face into his neck- the soft skin of her nose grazing his neck in ways that made it hard for Grayson to do anything other than have a content smile plastered on his face. She nipped on his neck, “You’re wearing your crop top.” Grayson’s chest rumbled with laughter at her quiet demanding voice.

“Is that so?”

“Mhmm. I like it a lot,” she hummed. He could feel her lips curling into a smile and he absolutely adored it.

***

Ethan chuckled quietly to himself, completely drowned out by Y/n and Grayson belching lyrics at each other. When he agreed to take photos of them he figured Gray would drive. But no. Instead, Grayson had his limbs entangled with Y/n’s while they sat in the back like Ethan was a chauffeur. He sighed as he slowed to a stop in traffic. Suddenly it hit him. The best addition to Grayson’s post, at least for the two obnoxious lovebirds. Anytime he couldn’t take pictures he’d record them- making a mental note to edit it later. He fumbled around in the bag sitting in the passenger seat before pulling out the camcorder and setting it on the dashboard. He quickly adjusted the small device until it was focused on the pair.

***

The burning sand dipped under their weight as Ethan searched for the ‘Goldilocks’ part of the beach as he kept referring to it. Groups of people thinned out to one or two people strolling aimlessly- the blazing sun only energizing their smiles.

“This is it,” Y/n whispered to Grayson with a quiet chuckle. She slipped her hand under his shirt, resting on the small of his back- her small thumbs in comparison rubbing circles into his warm skin. “Ethan’s finally going to leave us in the middle of nowhere so he can have some peace and quiet back home.”

Grayson let out a throaty chuckle at her comment and shook his head. As much as he and his brother loved each other her playful comment seemed completely probable. Between him and Y/n being practically linked at the hip and the way he’d have her laughing or moaning endlessly every chance he could just because the noises she makes were pieces of heaven. It wasn’t hard to see how Ethan could get annoyed to the point of ditching them.

Ethan stopped in his tracks, breaking Grayson’s train of thought with a proud smile. “Alright lovebirds, how about here?”

Y/n took in the secluded area- the clear sound of crashing waves mingling with Tame Impala streaming from the speaker in Ethan’s backpack. Scattered rocks and boulders a short distance away led to a towering cliff. The same cliff Grayson had finally convinced her to jump from on their third date. The low sun left the area in a picturesque glow, creating halos around each thing the light graced.

Y/n looked up at Grayson, biting back her gracious smile before turning back to Ethan. She nodded her head eagerly, “it’s perfect E. Right bub?”

“Maybe I should’ve just asked you in the first place,” Grayson chuckled as he finally let go of Y/n- still keeping her within arms distance.

“What can I say I’m pretty great.” Ethan flipped his imaginary hair over his shoulder with an eye roll. “Now say, cheese dorks,” he instructed as he pulled his phone out- circling around the pair as he searched for the best angle.

Y/n stepped further away from Grayson, copying his casual pose- resting her weight on one hip and stuffing her hand in the opposite pocket. It was hard for her to keep a straight cool face, his playful glare melting her where she stood.

She let out a quiet squeak as Grayson stuffed his hand in her back pocket furthest from him. Effortlessly he curled his arm, sending her tumbling back into his hold. “Is that how we’re playing tonight?” His gruff voice was quiet, just barely above a whisper- his soft growl making his words seem louder than in reality.

“What a girl can’t pose for a picture,” Y/n teased with a knowing smirk. She smoothed over the wrinkled fabric over his chest before resting right above his heartbeat. Despite the relaxing setting Grayson’s heart was hammering in his chest. Pounding against her hand in a rhythm that matched her own heart. “Everything okay bub?”

“Just soaking in my princess’s otherworldliness.” He craned his neck down until his lips met with her forehead. “I love you to bits.” Using his free hand he lifted her unto the tip of her toes so their nose would touch. He rubbed his own against the tip of her nose, laughing at the adorable way her’s would scrunch up.

“Stop,” Y/n whined in a giggle. She was hoping Ethan would chalk this all up to them being extra for the pictures. The last thing she wanted was to give him more fuel to his teasing.

“Not until you say it back,” Grayson breathed against her lips. He kissed her tenderly, lengthening the kiss with each word. “Say. it.” She shook her head defiantly, attempting to ignore the way his kiss left her legs weak. “Y/n,” he whined as he scooped her into his arms.

Y/n rolled her eyes at the small pout Grayson gave her. “Really Bailey?” She searched his whiskey eyes, hoping for him to budge, before letting out a sigh. “I love you too,” Y/n grumbled as she wrapped her legs around his waist. She cupped his cheek, his stubble tickling her palms. “I love you tons. You’re my best friend and the best boyfriend I could ever ask for. And most of all,” she paused for dramatic effect- taking the time to plant a kiss on his lips. “You’re a pain in my ass. E can we take group pictures now?” Her body stiffened for a second as Grayson sneakily squeezed her butt once again, huffing in disappointment.  “We still have a few more hours of good light plus I’d love to get my best friend in here.” Y/n hopped down from Grayson’s grasp as she tried to convince Ethan. He maintained his uncertain gaze. Or maybe it was just him trying to say he didn’t want to do it anymore.

“Fine,” he caved, breaking into a smile. He couldn’t bring himself to turn down the girl childishly poking his side and tugging on his shirt. “Only if you pick me up,” he joked as he set up the camera stand.

“It’d be my honor.”

***

Taking pictures together was a total blast. Y/n and Grayson were determined to prevent Ethan from feeling like a third wheel the entire time the three of them goofed off in front of the camera. Which unsurprisingly resulted in an amplification of jokes and teasing. It was like any time they’d invite Y/n to be in one of the videos- with more dorky poses thrown in just because. So much so that it wasn’t until the sun had completely disappeared that they decided to pack up the cameras. Calling an end to the little makeshift photo shoot. And even then their laughter echoed through the beach, rivaling the sound of the more aggressive waves.

Y/n stifled a yawn, dragging her now bare feet through the still warm sand. “Thanks, Bub for making me go through with this.” The cropped top hanging on Grayson made it easy for her to tiredly wrap her arms around his waist- relishing in the warmth. “And thanks E for dealing with us- today and every day. You’re the best,” she mumbled the last few words as the Jeep came into view. A sudden wave of exhaustion washed over her at the sight of Ethan’s Jeep waiting for them.

“What can I say, as annoying as you are together you’ve grown on me.” Ethan turned around in time to catch Grayson plant a lingering kiss on the crown of her head. He couldn’t deny the happiness that radiated off of Grayson whenever she was around. Maybe that’s why he couldn’t bring himself to truly complain other than when they interfered with his sleep. It was clear Grayson was utterly smitten by her and most days the only time he’d get to show that side was at home. He didn’t blame Grayson for trying to keep his relationship with her hidden for so long- there were so many things that could go wrong. But there was only so much hiding one person could do.

“Hey bro,” Grayson called out quietly once they finished loading everything into the car including a half-awake Y/n. “Thank you. I really owe you.”

Ethan shrugged as they both climbed into the Jeep- the little sliver of the sun providing just enough light for them to clearly see each other still. “Just keep it quiet for at least two weeks and we’ll call it even.” He looked over at Grayson’s shocked and displeased face. “Fine one week, and a heads up. As much as you like hearing her moan that’s not- .”

“Deal.” Grayson chuckled as he wrapped his arm around her, allowing her to snuggle into his side as sleep her eyes fluttered sleepily. It didn’t take long for her to fall asleep with her cheek pressed to his chest and an arm slung over him. “She’s gonna hate me for this,” he thought aloud as he pulled his phone out. As stealthily as possible, he opened Snapchat and angled the camera towards her, capturing her content expression. He looked over the photo, unable to resist the urge to swoon over her. His thumbs moved across the screen, typing out ‘best feeling in the world’ followed by multiple hearts as fast as he could before posting it onto his story.

“I swear if you really just posted any kind of hint that you two are dating I’m going to kill you,” Ethan warned. “You could’ve done that earlier without dragging me out here. Or had me post a video of you two.”

“True, but now I can also say we have cheesy couple pics that we can post. Plus I could never have too many pictures of her.”

“Okay Grayson Extra Dolan, but now you definitely owe me two weeks.”

“A week and a half tops. That’s all you’re getting. And I can’t promise those noises won’t be replaced with her laughter.”

“I can handle that.”

[faveficarchive]

The Hitch Hiker

By Bongo Bear

Pairing: AU Xena/Gabrielle

Rating: Mature

Synopsis: AU Xena/Gabrielle meet after an airport an airport snafu, and their past selves are dredged up. CW: dub!con

Personal Note: This right here is the OG Uber-fic for the Xenaverse. Bongo Bear LITERALLY COINED THE TERM UBER for Xena fic, and fanfic in general, so bless her for her contributions. Bongo and Bat Morda paved the way for you to enjoy every Mel/Janice, Xena/Gabrielle uber fic you’ve ever read. You ain’t got nothing on this woman. I don’t usually post ubers that don’t contain 99% pure X/G or M/J in their named glory, but this one has to be preserved, as it was the first. I’ll also be posting a few more of her stories as I can find them.  

I was in a real snit, to put it mildly. I was tired and hungry and still had a long way to go. I had just lost my boarding pass after the bags were already checked in and loaded on the plane. Time was running out and I was desperate enough to call upon a higher power.

So, I supplicated myself to a priestess of air travel at the altar of Customer Service. I begged her to let me join my luggage on the flight that was about to leave in five minutes from the gate a hundred yards away from where I prostrated myself before her. I made offerings of Mastercard, Visa, and American Express to no avail. She looked at me with sympathetic eyes, but no way was she going to violate security protocols and let me on board without the missing pass. I sighed deeply and started to look at the flight schedule to other cities when I heard a voice call out to me.

I turned at the sound and saw a woman sitting in the waiting lounge nearby. She smiled and waved at me. I pointed to my chest, who me? She nodded vigorously, yes you! I walked over to this woman whom I had never set eyes upon before and asked, "Ahh, did you want to say something to me?"

"Yes, I couldn't help but overhear your conversation over there," she pointed to the counter. "I'm going to Vancouver as well and missed the same flight, but for different reasons. Now, I'm on a flight to Bellingham; it's just an hour drive to Vancouver from there. If you get a seat on the Bellingham flight, I'll drive you over. The plane leaves in thirty minutes."

I'm not accustomed to the unexpected generosity of strangers, so I looked her over. Even though she was seated, I could tell that she was tall, taller than me. Her dark hair was gathered in a long ponytail that curled over her shoulder. What really caught my attention were her incredible, deep blue eyes. They matched the indigo denim shirt she wore under her black leather parka. I thought for sure that Mother Nature didn't make eyes like that and that she was wearing contacts. I looked for the tell-tale rings in the corneas, but I couldn't find them.

"Well, are you interested in my offer or not?"

I mentally slapped myself when I realized that I was falling into her eyes. What was she offering me? Oh, yes, a ride. "Yeah, sure. Why not? You don't look like an axe murderer." I grinned at my lame attempt to break the ice.

"That's a relief! I hate to think that people find me threatening. My name is Alexandria, but you can call me Alex," she said as she stood up and extended her hand to me.

"I'm Gwen, short for Guinevere," I said, shaking her hand. A strong grip. I liked that. Some women, when they shake hands, only grasp the fingers and give them a weak wiggle. That always made me feel like they were hiding something because they weren't willing to give all of their hand to me. What else would a person like that hold back? Alex's hand was large enough to encompass all of mine. She shook my hand firmly, yet gently. I could trust her. Completely. What the hell am I thinking, I thought.

"Guinevere is a very old, very auspicious name," Alex observed.

"My mom was a big fan of Le Morte d'Arthur. Now, Alex is an unusual nickname for Alexandria."

"I throw people for a loop whenever they meet me. You know, they're expecting some guy instead of me. Besides, I'm more memorable that way," she said matter-of-factly.

No kidding, I thought. "Hmm, I need to buy my ticket. Will you watch my backpack for me?" I set my heavy pack in the empty seat next to Alex and walked over to the ticket counter. When I returned, she was studying the blueprint tube sticking out of the top of the pack.

"It's a practice sword called a bokuto," I said as I pulled the tube out of the pack and sat down. I removed the protective tube and handed her the wooden sword. "I'm a student of Iaido..."

"The Japanese martial art of drawing a sword and striking down your opponent in a single stroke," she finished. "By the way, where's your live blade?"

I looked at her quizzically, "My sword's at home. Security would get antsy if I carried on three feet of razor sharp steel. How did you know about Iaido?"

"I'm a professor of military history. Actually, my specialty is Greek warfare, but I keep up with other cultures as well," she said as her hand caressed the smooth wood of the sword's blade.

This time, I stopped myself from staring at her graceful hand and said, "I'm an architect. I've just finished a guest lecture on design here in Denver."

"So are you going to Vancouver for another lecture?"

"No, Vancouver's a working vacation; Denver was just work. You promise not to laugh too hard?" Alex nodded. "I like to write on the side. So I'm attending a writers' workshop in Vancouver. When I was in college, I had to decide whenever to major in literature or architecture. I've always had a bent for the written word as well as drafting and design. I chose architecture for the money, but I never gave up writing for the pleasure."

"I understand. It's good to cultivate many talents: public speaking, word smithing, and sword play," she said as she handed my sword back to me. "Boarding call....let's get in line." She put her hand around my upper arm. I let her guide me out of my seat and into the queue.

"'Word smithing' to describe scribbling stories is a bit overly dramatic, isn't it?" I said, a little embarrassed by the flourish she gave that part of my life.

She shrugged her shoulders. "It's part of what you are. That's nothing to be ashamed of. The attendant wants your pass," she said as she directed my gaze to the waiting attendant.

We boarded the plane. It was a lot smaller than I had expected for such a long trip from Denver to near the Canadian border. The plane, being as tiny as it was, transmitted every swoop, turn, and sudden updraft directly to my stomach. I held my head between my knees. I knew I was going to hurl into the barf bag I held to my mouth. Alex, seated next to me, rubbed my neck and my back to try to soothe me. She had me sit up, then she grasped my wrist tightly. Suddenly, my motion sickness faded from the full-blown tempest to a slight churning in my gut.

"What did you do?" I asked Alex. She said, "I've activated a pressure point on your wrist. Like this." She demonstrated again. It was like a toggle switch. Hit the point once the nausea goes away. Hit again and it comes right back at you. "Oh god, I'm gonna be sick." She quickly switched off my stomach. "Thanks, I can relax now," I said.

Feeling a bit conversational, I decided to find out more about my unusual traveling companion. "So, what brought you to Denver?" I asked.

"I did some hiking in the Rocky Mountain National Park. Ever been there, Gwen?" 

I nodded. "It's one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Not too many places have skies as blue, snow caps as white, or lakes as clear." I watched her face intently as she spoke. I could almost see the stormy blue skies over the Rockies reflected in her eyes.

"I assume that you hiked by yourself. Do you like communing with Nature all alone?" I asked.

"I've traveled with a friend in the past, but now I travel alone. I would prefer a companion," she said almost shyly. She looked at me expectantly. I wasn't sure how to respond.

"Please go on. I want to hear about your trip," I said relaxing into my seat. I felt her fingers burning into my hand as she touched me to emphasize a point. Her voice fell into a sing-song that slowly dropped octaves and the volume softened to a low whisper. I stopped hearing any more of her words, as I fell into a light snooze that quickly deepened into REM sleep. I dreamt about Alex, but not Alex.

******

A tall, dark beauty looking amazingly like Alex walks tentatively towards me. She's wearing what looks like a one-piece leather bathing suit with a matching set of breast armor, gauntlets, and arm bands. She smiles brilliantly at me. I approach her, but she won't let me touch her. I can't hear what she's saying. She leans in to kiss me on the lips. I close my eyes and purse my lips in anticipation...

******

"Gwen!" Alex tried to shake me out of the dream. "Wake up!" She shook me hard enough to throw my upper body into the aisle.

"Uuhh, what? Oh, it's you," I said. She said that I was talking some nonsense aloud and she didn't want me to embarrass myself. "What did I say?" I asked warily.

"Nothing intelligible, but the other passengers started to look at you funny," she said.

"Great, thanks for waking me. My ears are killing me. We must be landing." I looked out of the window and saw white. Not just the white of flying through cloud cover, but the white of the ground covered with snow and the white of the sky whose horizon was increasingly indistinguishable as the day came to a close. "Are you sure we can drive through this mess? It looked like it snowed ten feet down there!"

Alex patted my hand, "No, problem. I grew up here and know the area well. Besides, we can rent a four-by-four SUV when we land."

******

We pulled out of the rental car lot and were on the road to Vancouver in no time flat. Alex drove while I rode shotgun. She tuned the radio to a local NPR station that was playing classical music. Soon she was humming softly to the strains of Mozart's Magic Flute. I leaned back against the head rest and squinted my eyes at the setting sun as it outlined Alex's features.

She concentrated all of her attention on the road because of the driving snow. I took the opportunity to look at her, to really see this intriguing woman. The fading sun illuminated the profile of her face. The planes of her high cheek bones complemented her long, straight nose. Her countenance had a classic beauty that the typical Barbie doll beauty queen lacks. Her face projected strength, confidence, and something else that I bet scared the holy shit out of her students when the mood struck her.

She must have felt my stare, for she said, "What are you looking at, Gwen?" She kept her eyes on the road.

"You," I said brazenly, almost wishing I hadn't said anything at all. "I know I've met you before..." She just smiled enigmatically at the windshield.

Alex turned on the headlights. The falling snow sparkled as it fell through the beams. It would have been a lovely sight if the snowfall weren't so heavy. The visibility was reduced to mere feet once the sun went down. "We'll have to pull over. It's too dangerous to drive in these conditions. I'll park away from the road so that we don't have to worry about a car hitting us in the night."

"Where can we stay? I'm not too thrilled about camping out in the SUV tonight," I whined.

"We'll be just fine in the back. I have camping equipment in my luggage."

I looked out at the heavy falling snow. It was wet and stuck to everything. The wind whipped around what didn't stick and obscured everything else but the small space directly in front of the SUV. I blew out a sigh between my lips. The window immediately fogged. "Damn, we're snowbound."

******

Alex put down the back seats of the SUV to form a flat surface and laid her sleeping bag across it. "There's only one bag," I said, pointing out the obvious. "I know. We'll have to share. My bag's big enough," Alex said.

How convenient for you, I thought. "I'm not comfortable with that. Why don't you sleep back there and I'll just curl up in the front seat?"

"Don't be ridiculous. Besides, it's much warmer if we sleep together." She shrugged herself into the bag, looked at me, then patted the empty space next to her. I shook my head no. "Suit yourself."

Thirty minutes later, I was freezing and not getting a wink of sleep. Cold moonlight poured through the windshield, dimly lighting the interior. I looked back and saw her shivering a little in her sleep as well. I crawled back there and gently woke up Alex. She said sleepily, "Changed your mind? Come here and lie down."

I took off my heavy parka and snuggled up inside. I laid the parka over the bag for extra warmth. Alex had done the same with hers. I laid flat on my back and peered straight ahead so I wouldn't have to look at her. Like I could actually ignore her. I felt her body heat radiating into my side.

"Gwen, why were you staring at me earlier?" She propped herself up to face me.

"Umm, no particular reason. You're just interesting to look at." I still stared at the ceiling.

"Uh huh. You said you knew me from somewhere else? Do you remember where?" She caught a lock of my hair and began to twirl it in her fingers.

"Stop that," I said, grabbing her hand. "You just look very familiar; that's all! Is there a point to the twenty questions?" I said impatiently, releasing her hand.

"Maybe..." She put her hand on my stomach and began to rub it in slow circles through the sleeping bag.

"Like you're trying to seduce me?"

"Who me?" she asked as innocently as possible for her.

"I don't see anyone else here." I rolled over and pretended to search around the cramped loading area of the SUV. She caught my hand and placed a fingertip in her mouth. Then she kissed the palm of my hand before nibbling the sensitive spot on the inside of my wrist. Don't...do...that..." I objected weakly.

"Why not?" she said. 

Why not, indeed. I couldn't think of a good reason to refuse her attentions. She was beautiful, aroused, and getting me there, too. I was wondering if her suggestion to travel with her back at the airport was a mere coincidence or if it was somehow fated. Why here, why now, why me?

"I can see the indecision on your face, Gwen. A lot of questions going through that hard head of yours." She quickly closed the distance between our lips. "Have you made up your mind, yet?" I responded by rolling her on top of me. "I'll take that as a 'yes'," she said, looking down at my wide open eyes. Her long hair tickled my neck and my nose. She deliberately moved her head so that the soft strands brushed against my skin, making me laugh.

"You're all flushed. Let's get you out of those clothes." She picked herself up, then pulled me to a sitting position. As she kissed me, she slowly unbuttoned my flannel shirt. She bent down and placed her soft lips on my exposed skin as each unbutton came undone. The wet kisses left a trail of goose bumps. By the time the trail led to my navel, I was ready tear the rest off myself. I kicked away the top of the sleeping bag, then leaned back so I could unzip my jeans. Her hands beat me to the zipper. She pulled the jeans and underwear off in a single motion and was tugging at my socks. "Leave them be," I said panting slightly. She looked at me with a questioning eyebrow. "I don't want to get cold feet."

She smirked at the unexpected humor. "All right. The socks stay put." Her voice grew husky, "Is your foreplay as good as your wordplay?" Before I could answer, she pushed me back into the bag and straddled my hips. Since she was facing the front, the moonlight struck her full in the face. The effect left me breathless. Her brilliant blue eyes, glittering with an internal fire, were set in her pale face like sapphires lying on white satin. She held my gaze and began to murmur softly in a foreign language. Ancient Greek? My lids grew heavy as the rhythm of her voice swept me into delicious unconsciousness. The last thing I remembered were those dazzling eyes.

******

A tall, dark beauty named Xena walks tentatively towards me. She's wearing her usual one-piece leather battle tunic with a matching set of breast armor, gauntlets, and arm bands. She smiles brilliantly at me. I approach her, but she won't let me touch her. I can just barely hear what she's saying. She leans in to kiss me on the lips. I close my eyes and purse my lips in anticipation.....

"Gabrielle, please look at me," Xena said. Gabrielle opened her eyes and saw her lover for the first time in a century. She hugged the warrior tightly and sighed 'Xena' into her shoulder.

"Little one, I'm glad to see you, too! I'm sorry it took so long to make contact, but your host is a little too reserved; repressed even." Xena caressed her bard's hair as she spoke.

"You mean she actually resisted your charms?" Gabrielle asked with a touch of surprise.

"Yeah, can you believe it? I had to seduce then hypnotize her before I could bring you out."

"Are you sure she's a descendant of mine? She seems so different. She doesn't even look that much like me. Her hair is a darker blonde - almost a mousy brown. And she's taller..." Xena stopped her bard before she could tick off any more points.

"Gabrielle, she has your most endearing qualities: propensities for speaking, writing, and whining," Xena said with a very big grin.

"Very funny. But really, she seems a little like you, too. Especially the affinity for swords and a stubborn streak. Could it be that she's a descendant from both of us?"

"Possibly. That could explain why the Fates practically dumped her in my lap. I had almost given up since it had been so long, yet there she was. Just standing there at the airport."

"Hmmm, if she is descended from you as well as me, be careful not to piss her off."

"I don't piss people off any more," Xena said defensively. Gabrielle dropped her chin and cocked her eyes skeptically. "Okay..not as much as I used to."

"Just teasing. Seriously, how do you plan to explain our situation to her? I can take over her body now that she's asleep. But will she share when she's fully awake?"

"Don't know. But for now, let's take full advantage of the situation," Xena said as she bent her head to finish the kiss.

******

The rays of the morning sun reflected off the snow drifts and directly into my face. I tried to pull the sleeping bag over my eyes to block out the light, but there wasn't enough slack. I cracked one bleary eye open, then coaxed the other one awake. Stretching out above my head, I felt the soreness of my arms and legs. I sat up in sleeping bag and looked down at my still sleeping companion. Alex's lips were slightly parted in relaxation. Impulsively, I reached down to caress the side of her face and brush my fingers lightly across her moist lips. She involuntarily closed them on my fingertips. I quickly withdrew them, not wanting to wake her.

I looked around and noted that the snow drifts covered half of the SUV. The doors of only one side could be opened. Fortunately, it was on my side. I fished out my discarded clothing from the corner, dressed, and went outside. Sunlight sparkled on the snow, rendering the landscape an almost blinding white. The pine trees were softly outlined with only a few green branches poking out of the white blanket. I breathed in the cold, sharp air and bent down to wash my face with the clean snow. This isn't so bad, I thought. What am I, nuts? I'm in the middle of the frigging woods! With a very strange, but fascinating woman. Well, I can't do anything about it now.

On a whim, I went back to the SUV and pulled out my sword and a sweatshirt. A few drills would loosen up those sore muscles. I stepped out into a clearing a few yards from the SUV and changed into the sweatshirt. I finished the first seven kata and was meditating about the past day's events when I heard the car door slam shut. I heard Alex's feet crunch through the snow toward me. I felt her arms around my waist as she whispered in my ear, "Good morning, I slept like a rock. How about you?"

As I turned around in her arms, she met me with a brief kiss. I pulled her arms away from me and stepped back a little. She seemed alarmed by my cool reception. "I may as well have slept on a rock; I hurt all over. On top of that, I'm missing out on the workshop, which is already paid for. I'm sleeping in the woods like a goddamned bear. And from the looks of the SUV," pointing to the half-buried vehicle with my chin, "and of the road," pointing in the opposite direction to the non-existent paved surface, "I'm going to have to go through this again!"

"You're certainly acting like a bear. Come on....was last night really so bad?" she asked as she caressed my face. I started to brush her hand aside, but decided to just hold it between us instead.

"Actually, I don't remember very much about it. I just felt unusually sore this morning." I rubbed my lower back to ease a knot.

"At least you can't see the teeth marks on your..." Alex clamped a hand over her mouth to shut herself up.

It was my turn to raise eyebrows. I twisted to glance down at my hip pocket. "On my butt? No, you didn't!" Alex just stood there with a huge toothy grin on her face. "Aah, you did!" I threw up my hands in exasperation.

"Hey, I've been vaccinated!" Alex said defensively, though still smiling. I cocked a skeptical eye at her.

At this point, I was very unhappy camper. I pushed my index finger into Alex's chest, slowly backing her into a tree.

"Whatever possessed you," Poke.

"To bite me," Poke.

"Anywhere?" Poke.

When she couldn't move any further, I looked up into her eyes, "Much less my butt!" Poke.

Looking down at me, she gently pulled my irate finger from her bosom and kissed it. Then she said, "For someone who's not much of a morning person, you're asking very astute questions."

"Huh?" I retrieved my hand to rub the back of my neck, "Things are going on that I don't understand. What exactly happened last night? I feel like I've been through a marathon."

"I'm not surprised considering that Gabrielle and I did give your body quite a workout last night," Alex said carefully, watching my reaction. It was simply, "Who the hell is Gabrielle?"

She sat me down and told me the long sordid tale of her illustrious ancestor, Xena the Warrior Princess and the love of her life, Gabrielle, the famous bard of Potedeia. I never heard of either of them. She explained how their souls were forever intertwined and therefore fated to be together. Throughout the centuries since their deaths, their souls have inhabited the bodies of a select few of their descendants. I'm supposed to be a descendant of Gabrielle for sure and possibly even Xena. Once inhabited, their descendants lived together much as their progenitors did in life. Alex finished her story with a beatific smile. "We're so relieved to have found you, Gwen. You're just perfect. Just perfect."

"Great, I'm perfect for what? Look, I don't share your enthusiasm. I'm not even sure you're completely sane. You're Xena's descendant and she's supposed to be you now? Let's say for the sake of argument, that what you've told me is completely true - "

"It is," Alex interjected.

"And I'm supposed to let Gabrielle take over my body, so you two can live in bliss the rest of my life?"

"That's how it usually works," Alex nodded her head. "You understand now?"

"I understand that neither of you two have considered the rights of the people you inhabited." Alex looked stunned at my words. "When Gabrielle took over, where was I? Where was my soul?"

"Your soul was still there. You were just unconscious for the whole time."

"Do I have to be unconscious for her to take over completely?"

"Yes. But she can keep you conscious. In that case, you would experience everything as if it were happening to someone else," Alex answered.

"Then I might as well be dead! If I let her take me over forever, she'd be living my life. I like my life. She can't just take it over! Both of you lived full lives, fuller than most, centuries ago. I have the right to live my own life."

"But we're destined to be together forever! The gods have ordained it. You can't refuse to let Gabrielle live again through you."

"Oh, yes, I can. Even if she lets me remain conscious, I won't have my own will. She'd still control everything. I'd just be aware of being trapped in my own body."

"Gabrielle should be the one talking to you. She's much more persuasive than I am," Alex said worriedly. "Gwen, I love you. You've got to understand!"

"Alex, Xena, whoever you are... we just met yesterday. You can't possibly love me. You love Gabrielle. You made love to Gabrielle last night, not to me. You've used me for your own selfish pleasure." Alex winced at that comment, but continued to listen.

"You easily seduced me and I probably even let you. I might even come to love you someday," I said as I stroked her hand. "But Gabrielle will always have your heart. Not me, not the person I really am. Remember how you hated how the gods meddled in your life. You're doing the exact same thing to me. You and Gabrielle will just have to work something else out." I turned, grabbed my coat, shirt, and sword, and stomped back to the SUV to get warm again. The look on Alex's face was like I had just killed her best friend. Maybe I just did.

******

Alex followed me back to the SUV. She grabbed my shoulder and spun me around to face her. "I need Gabrielle by my side. I can't go on living alone like this." Alex was practically pleading with me. A tear welled up in her eye and threatened to roll down a perfect cheek. I automatically reached out and brushed away her tears. She caught my hand and held it to her cheek. Oh god, I groaned inwardly. I snatched my hand away before she took anymore liberties.

"All right, don't get all mushy on me. I thought you were the tough one, Alex."

"Actually, that part of my personality has mellowed a lot. Before Xena merged with me, I was a real wuss. You know, a sentimental, simpering romantic. Her darker personality gave me some balance."

"So it is possible to 'merge' the souls in a body rather than have one dominate the other?"

"No, not really. The dominant soul still controls the body. But sharing the body is more like a merger if both souls want it. I wanted and needed it. It's only a problem if the original owner fights the process. Then it becomes possession," Alex's eyes narrowed slightly.

"Are you threatening me?" Rising up to the challenge, "I got news for you, kiddo. If I've inherited bits of both Xena's and Gabrielle's personalities, I'm stronger than either of you individually. Don't misunderstand; I'm sympathetic to your loneliness."

"As I am to yours," Alex said catching me by off-guard. Holding me by my upper arms, she asked gently, "Gwen, you have your life, your career. But who do you have? How do you wake up in the mornings? All cold and alone? Just like your nights?" I opened my mouth to wordlessly respond, how could you know? Her blue eyes shined into mine. "Who is your soulmate?"

I stood there dazed like a deer in headlights. How did she know what I've needed - wanted - all my adult life? Somehow, she knew about the one-night-stands where I sought temporary relief, only to wake up alone in the morning. She knew that sometimes I cried myself to sleep hugging a pillow, wishing it were a lover. I looked down into my heart and found the answer.

I told her the truth in a quiet voice, "No one."

"That's where you're wrong. I'm right here," lifting my chin so she could see my eyes. Alex reached out to touch my chest. The warmth of her fingers seeped through. "I can help fill that emptiness. We're not being selfish at all. What Gabrielle and I had when we were alive is a gift we bestow on our descendants: the gift of eternal love. You'll never be alone again."

Long minutes passed while I considered what she said. Taking a deep breath, I began slowly, "I suppose....we could come.... to a mutual agreement. There are some things about Gabrielle that could bring balance to my life."

"Yeah, like you could use some lightening up," Alex quipped, a smile turning up a corner of her mouth.

"Hmmph," I sniffed. "She could help me with my writing. Yeah, that's it. Make me more empathic. Who knows? Gabrielle may learn a few things from me." This could work, I thought. "Just because she's dead doesn't mean she can't learn new tricks. But I don't want her messing with my swords. Let's make a deal."

"I'm listening."

******

Alex and I dug the SUV out of the snow drift. The highway plows eventually came through and we were able to get back on the road again. Alex dropped me off in Vancouver. When we parted, she gave me a deep kiss that lingered for hours later. I told her that I wanted to see her again, very soon.

I think this compromise will work out just fine. I'll spend time with Alex because I want to. After all, she is hard to resist. Alex will have to learn to love me for who I am, not who she wants me to be.

Gabrielle will live vicariously through me, but without direct control. Her influence will be subtle and only with my approval. Gabrielle will just have to deal with the fact that I'm driving and she's riding shotgun. Good gods, was that noise my stomach? I wonder what passes for nutbread around here.....

Finis

[sevenpabosandabunchoffans]

Movie Night

Group/Member: BTS/Hoseok

Words: 1529

Genre/Warnings: fluff, Jimin being a little shit

Summary: Hoseok and y/n have been avoiding each other, so Jimin decides to step in again

Request: @brittanysvanillapath, continuation of Camping

A/N: The second part to Camping!! I’m so excited to see how you guys like this one, because I loved writing it!! Hope you enjoy!!

It’s been a few weeks since that camping trip. You and Hoseok had spent the rest of the night cuddled up in front of the fire as if it was something the two of you did all the time. There was no awkwardness or shyness, all you felt was content. You began to believe that Hoseok returned your feelings and that that night was the start of something for you guys.

That belief was quickly ripped away when the next morning came and Hoseok didn’t even greet you when you came out of your tent. Thinking he was just tired from it being fairly early, you brushed it off and went about your morning. Throughout the rest of the trip though, you realized that that wasn’t the case, as anytime you tried to start a conversation with him, he would reply with as short of statements as he possibly could and his volume dropped back to how it had been prior to leaving for the trip. Your confidence dropped at the realization that he must not have wanted to interact with you, so you stopped trying. By the end of the trip, your relationship with Hoseok had gone back to the way it was, except even less interaction between the two of you.

When you got back home, you decided that it was time to move on from your crush, as obviously nothing would come of it. In order to do this, you began declining the boys whenever they invited you somewhere. You gave the same excuses every time, that you were busy, you didn’t feel well, you were tired after a long day. Jin, Namjoon, and Yoongi all understood and would say nothing else. The maknaes on the other hand were a different story.

“Please, y/n!!! We all miss you!!” Jimin whines as he lies on you couch. A few minutes earlier, Jimin had shown up at your apartment inviting you to a movie night this weekend. When you told him you were busy, he pushed past you into the apartment and said he refused to leave until you agreed. He sits up to look at you. “Especially Hobi.” He wiggles his eyebrows suggestively.

You feel your breath catch in the back of your throat at the mention of his name, but quickly compose yourself. “I don’t know why you felt the need to add that on, what am I gonna suddenly drop all of my plans because Hoseok misses me?” You say, trying to sound sarcastic, even though before that really would have been all it would take to get you to hang out.

“I mean, you are kind of in love with him, so…” Jimin says, lying back down and crossing his arms behind his head.

“I’m not in love with him!” You defend, voice an octave higher than normal.

“Your voice tells me otherwise~” Jimin sings out, teasing you further.

“Whatever~” You flop down onto the couch next to his feet, and Jimin sits up fully. “Plus, you’re lying, there’s no way he misses me.”

“Oh yes he does.”

“Then why wouldn’t he be the one begging me to come hang out instead of some baby hands?”

He pushes my shoulder playfully at my insult. “Why don’t you ask him?”

You hesitate before answering. “Like I said, I’m not in love with him, so I don’t really care if he wants to hang out or not.” You shrug.

“Why are you so difficult?!” Jimin groans, running his hand through his hair, like he has been nearly the entire time the two of you have been talking. His hand drops to his lap and he looks over at you. “Please come to movie night.”

“I can’t, I have-“

“It’s just gonna be me, Tae, and Jungkook anyway. You know, your three favorite people in the world.” He drops his head onto your shoulder and looks up at you cutely. “All the hyungs are gonna be out, and it would be nice to have someone there that won’t make fun of me for jumping if we watch a horror movie.”

You sigh dramatically, “I guess I can clear my schedule.” Jimin jumps off the couch, cheering in excitement. “But let me get one thing straight.” Jimin pauses in his celebration. “The three of you are nowhere near being my favorite people.”

“Caught in a liiiiiieeeee~” Jimin sings out, running out of your apartment before you can say or do anything.

That Saturday, you find yourself outside their dorm knocking on the door. You feel at ease knowing that it’s just gonna be the maknaes, not having to worry about seeing Hoseok for the first time since the camping trip. That ease goes away when the door opens, revealing a bare torso. Fuck.

“Y/N?” Hoseok asks, stepping slightly behind the door in order to somewhat cover himself. “What are you doing here?”

You quickly snap your gaze away from the part of his chest that’s not hidden by the door. “Oh…uh…Jimin invited me over to have a movie night with him, Taehyung, and Jungkook.”

“Huh, that’s weird.” Hoseok mutters to himself. “Come on in, I’m just gonna go grab a shirt.” He walks away, leaving to door open for you to enter.

He reenters the room, shirt now covering his body, and finds you now sitting on the couch. “So, uh, what did you mean by ‘that’s weird’?” You ask, curious about his reaction.

“Oh, only that Jimin, Tae, and Jungkook are all at the dance studio for the night.”

“That little shit.” You mutter. “Oh, maybe I had the wrong day or something.” You quickly stand up to leave.

“You don’t have to leave.” Hoseok rushes out, which shocks you into stopping. “I mean, I’m sure they’ll be back soon and that’s why they didn’t tell you they’re practicing. They probably didn’t expect you to be here this early.”

You still look at him in confusion, wondering why he’s actually wanting you to stay, then you realize something. “Wait, Jimin told me that you were gonna be at the studio working, so why are you here then?”

Hoseok’s eyes widen and you can see realization cross them as he curses under his breath. “Uh, you know what, I actually do have to be there, I’m running late as it is…” He continues to mumble incoherently as he moves around to gather his things to leave.

“But you looked like you were ready to relax for the night, and now all of a sudden you have to leave?” You question him. “You’re being as confusing right now as the whole HYYH series.”

Hoseok stops and looks at you. “If you want to know the truth, Jimin lied to you. He never planned on being here for a movie night tonight.”

“Yeah, I figured that out when you said ‘that’s weird’.”

“Oh, so we’re on the same page.” Hoseok moves to grab his keys, but you grab them first in a burst of confidence. “Okay, please give me-“

“Not until you tell me what’s going on.”

Hoseok sighs and nods in agreement. “It all started on the camping trip-“

“Oh, you mean the camping trip where you started avoiding me?” You say, suddenly feeling annoyed at the mention of that weekend.

“I haven’t been avoiding you!” Hoseok defends himself. “If anything, you’ve been avoiding me, constantly turning down the guys’ invites. I’m surprised you accepted Jimin’s. Actually, not really.”

“Okay, I only rejected the guys’ invitations because while we were camping I got the vibe that you didn’t necessarily want to be around me, and what do you mean you’re not really surprised?”

“I mean it’s obvious you and Jimin have something going on.”

“What?! Ew!!!” You exclaim, not believing anyone would ever think you would date that little shit.

“You don’t have to lie, he already told me.”

Your eyes widen and you take a deep breath. “What exactly did he tell you and when?”

“The first night of the camping trip, when we were in our tent. We were the only ones awake and he started talking about how pretty you are and how much he likes you and how he was planning to confess to you once the trip was over.”

You scoff in amazement as you finally realize what’s been going on. “I can’t believe him.”

“That he likes you? I can.”

“Not that, how far he’s willing to go to-“ You stop yourself as you finally register Hoseok’s finally statement. “Wait what? You can?”

Hoseok shrugs, looking down at the ground as his cheeks gain a pink tint. “I mean you are really pretty and smart and funny and-“ He stops talking as you press your lips to his cheek, shocking yourself and him.

The two of you stand in silence, avoiding eye contact. “Well, Jimin lied to you. There’s nothing going on between us and he definitely does not like me.” You clear your throat and look up to see Hoseok already looking at you. “Now that that’s cleared up, I’m gonna go now.” You look at him one last time, feeling your face heat up as you quickly leave the dorm.

[krissewrites]

À Triomphe - BTS AU

AU:  Art Thief!Bangtan

Description: You are a curator at one of the many museums in Paris, and have finally earned the bosses trust.  But after a strange meeting with a new coworker and his friends, you begin receiving messages from an unknown party.

Part: Thirteen / Twelve / Eleven / Ten / Nine / Eight / Seven / Six / Five / Four / Three / Two / One

Warnings: Swearing, Violence, Suggestive Situations.

You jolted as a boney finger pressed into your cheek.  Opening you eyes, you looked up at Jin.  He had changed clothes and stood almost innocently before you.

Light blue checkered pajamas draped over his long legs and the waistband of his red briefs shown.  He now donned a pair of black, rimless glasses.  His shoulders were able to breathe as he lacked a tee shirt.  Jin’s face had a few new scratches, and a small bruise on the highlight of his cheek, similar to the wounds he had the day of your date. He crossed his arms over his chest as he watched you slowly wake up, taking in your surroundings.  The collar hurt your neck.  

“Where’s the remote?”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,”

“You can stop acting coy.  I know you hid it.”

Jin sighed, turning on his heel as he walked towards his dresser drawer.  He tugged at the handle, pulling it out as he began to throw clothes over his shoulder.  The floor, already a mess, only became worse.  “I’m tired,” he began his speech, “I’m annoyed.”  He pulled out a small pocket knife, closing the drawer behind him.  “And now, I’m upset.”

You watched as he sauntered across the floor, stopping before you.  He twirled the knife in his hands.  “I just want an answer,” he groaned.  His voice had fallen an octave, and his eyes were narrow.

“I don’t know, Jin—maybe you misplaced it—“

Jin cackled, throwing his head back. His head rolled as he cocked it, glaring at you.  He stabbed the knife into the bedside table, causing you to flinch.  “Maybe you’re right, baby,”  he cooed.

He sighed, sitting on the edge of the bed, leading you to scoot into the corner of it.  He looked over his shoulder to glance at you.  “I’m a sensible man.”

Jin pulled a knee to his chest, the other foot planted on the floor as he turned to you.  He rested his chin on his knee.  “I’m also smart.”

You watched as a child-like grin covered his featured.  “Tell me, baby,” he began.  “Do I look dumb?” You glanced at him as he waited for an answer.  You gently shook your head, not wanting to make the wrong move.  “Well, then why are you acting like I am?”  He hissed.

In a split second, he had moved his position to kneel in front of you.  He had a death grip on your collar, pulling you towards him.  His eyes gleamed with sinister motives.  A chuckle rolled off his tongue as you whimpered, a lump forming in your dry throat.  “I know you hid it, baby,” he growled, licking his lips as his eyes washed over your figure.  His chest rose and fall as his free hand traced up and down your leg.  “Make it easy for daddy—“ his grip on your collar tightened, tugging you closer to him once more.  Every wince and whimper drove him crazy.  “Where did you hide it?”

You gritted your teeth, spitting in his direction.  Jin’s face contorted, the hand grazing your curves instantly reaching to wipe his cheek.  His gaze turned colder than before.  

Jin’s sizeable hands gripped your hair, hitting your head against the wall.  You yelped.  “I should give you to Jeongguk right now! He’ll tear you apart like the rest—“ he hissed.  

He pushed himself back, staggering off the bed as he panted in a fit of anger.  “You see this?” He growled, pointing to his cheek.  “I’m his fucking ragdoll.  You’re lucky to be in here with me!”  Jin’s temper reached a boiling point as his voice echoed through the house. He quickly rammed his fist against the wall, huffing as he turned back to you.  “Hoseok is itching to get his hands on you, you know?”  

Jin sauntered towards you, curling his fingers around the collar choking you.  He jerked you forward, off of the bed and towards the door as he held your wrist behind your back.  He pressed your cheek against the wood as he growled in your ear.  “Do you want to spend the night with Hoseok?”

You eagerly shook your head, begging to catch your breath from the sudden whiplash.  Your entire body hurt. Jin abruptly loosened his grip, walking back from you.  You gasped for air, slinking down the door as you came to a sitting position.  You pressed your shoulder against the wooden panel.  

“I want to be nice, baby, but you’re pushing my buttons.” He mewled, sitting beside his bed, leaning against the frame to stare at you.  He propped an elbow on his knee as he cocked his head, panting. Jin sighed, tossing his head back as he closed his eyes.  He swallowed the lump in his throat.  

Minutes passed before Jin situated on the bed, covering himself in a thin sheet and tossing his glasses to the bedside table.  Stars showed in the dark sky through the window behind you, weaving you into a deep sleep.

“You said you would be okay!”

“I need help! God damn it, please don’t leave me.”

“Help us! She’s dying!”

Jimin’s cowardly screams filled the night air, his lungs bursting with fury and woe. His hair was jet black, and his eyes were younger than before.  He didn’t look like the Jimin you’d come to know. He would turn to glance at you every so often, a whimper quaking from his lips as he held his palm against your cold cheek.  “Please,” He began to beg.

He called you by the wrong name.  Burying his head into your chest, his hands gripping yours as to squeeze life back into you, he called for the wrong woman.  It was the name on the lighter.  “Why’d he do this to you?”

The apartment space around you was cluttered; blood stained the carpet as books and furniture were strewn across the room.  You were looking outside yourself.  Your lifeless body laid on the floor between the couch and coffee table.  Sirens and footsteps clustered around the door as residents filled the halls.  Tires screeched down the block.  

Dear god, what is this.

Where am I?

You scanned the apartment for clues, for anything to give an alarm as to your position.  Foreign words filled the room as three paramedics entered the room.  They began to speak in their own tongue. Jimin returned his responses, weeping as he begged for them to help you in English; yet it wasn’t you.

Your eyes analyzed the body before you; a woman, taller than you, with long black hair and eyes similar to Jimin’s, laid lifeless on the floor.  Blood adorned her pale skin, scratches scarring her pristine body.  She had been fighting off something.

He had a sister.

You, disconnected from the scenario folding out before you, roamed around the room.  You were invisible as if you were cellophane.  No one knew, much less, saw you. You had the free will to pry into the woman’s possessions.

You stopped in front of a small desk hidden in the corner of the studio apartment, consumed by a portrait framed in a white, wooden frame.  The woman and Taehyung smiled, holding each other tightly as Taehyung’s arm extended in the picture. His smile sparkled with the same gleam he showed you. Picture after picture of the couple was strewn across the desk, every other frame smashed to pieces.

“Hey, brat,” a husky voice called.  Your eyes fluttered open, a throbbing pain coming from your neck as you repositioned yourself; you had fallen asleep against the wall.  

Jeongguk stood in front of you, his hands now free from captivity.  He had red rings around his wrist where the tape had been peeled off his bare skin.  Jeongguk wore a black, short sleeve shirt and blue skinny jeans.  He had a navy blue jacket folded over his forearm as he held out a hand to help you up.  “You need to wake up, you’re on duty.”

You took Jeongguk’s helping hand, stretching as he lifted you to your feet with ease.  He tossed the jacket in your direction.  “It’s cold outside, you need to put that on.”

“What do you mean?”

“It’s game day.  Did you forget why Yoongi dropped you off?”

Jeongguk busied himself with Jin’s valuables atop his dresser.  You glanced around the room, noticing Jin wasn’t to be found.  “No,” you muttered, reluctantly tugging your arms through the sleeves of the jacket.  

You had been piled into a van among Jeongguk, Hoseok, and Namjoon.  Jin had driven himself to the Louvre, keeping a watchful eye.  It’d been hours since you had moved, parked three miles from the museum in a dusty, gut-wrenching alley. Dusk had coated the city streets of Paris, night-life dwindling.

Namjoon played with the air vents on the dash, sighing every so often as he had grown bored.  Hoseok sat across from you, tapping his foot as he held back his urge to dig his thumbs into your throat.  He was disgusted with you.

Jeongguk had given you an entire lesson on heist etiquette.  You were to follow only him.  You were not to leave his sight.  You were not to touch anything.

Granted, it would be hard to disobey.  Jeongguk had a pistol clutched in his grip, and didn’t shy from pointing the barrel your direction every time he barked an order.  You complied with everyone, regretfully.

A loud chirping sound filled the small van.  Namjoon quickly reached for his phone, sliding across the screen and pressing it to his ear.

“Yeah, we’re ready. Are you?”

“Did Jin give you the okay?”

You could hear Yoongi raise his voice on the other end of the phone, telling Namjoon that Jin didn’t “have shit to say about the okay.”  Although Namjoon controlled the group as a whole, Yoongi had the clear advantage over him. He dangled Namjoon by a string; what Yoongi says, goes.

Namjoon ended the call, throwing the phone into the passenger's seat. He removed the keys from the van and tucked them in his jacket pocket. He silently exited the van, closing the door behind him.

The doors adjacent to you were pried open, Namjoon standing between them.  He quickly moved to the side.  Without a word, Hoseok jumped from the back of the van, landing on the asphalt without a hitch.  Jeongguk followed behind him.  Both left you in the dust, leaving you to jump to the ground yourself. Their gentleman streaks had reached their course.

Namjoon shut the doors to the van, sauntering back to the driver's seat, opening the door quietly.  He bent over, reaching for various items. As he returned, he held two flashlights and handcuffs.  Namjoon distributed the flashlights to Hoseok and Jeongguk, turning to you with the remaining item dangling from his hooked finger.  He stared impatiently.  

“Is that really necessary?”

“You can walk out in these or with a bullet through your brain,”

“Is neither a choice?”

Hoseok growled, stepping forward just before Namjoon pressed his palm against Hoseok’s chest.  Namjoon glared at Hoseok, nodding for him to move back to his position.  Hoseok, shaking from anger stepped back to his stance beside Jeongguk, who gripped his shoulder.

Namjoon forcefully gripped your wrist, tugging you into him.  You were too close for either of your comforts.  “I hate snappy girls,” he growled.  He tightened the cuffs around your wrist, digging the metal into your skin.  You flinched.

Namjoon pushed you off of him, leading to you stumbling back in Jeongguk.  He held you up by the bends of your elbows. Jeongguk scoffed.  “Have you forgotten how to walk?”

Jeongguk lifted you to your feet, wiping off the front of his tee shirt.  You swallowed the lump in your throat as you realized you were left alone with a man who wanted you dead, and a man who had neurotic tendencies—Namjoon had vacated the scene along with the van.  You watched at Jeongguk and Hoseok began to trek to the destination, tucking their flashlights in between the waist of their jeans and their belts. Praying to keep your balance, you jogged to meet them.  Your hands were trapped in front of you.

After a few minutes, you stood yards from the front entrance to the Louvre.  Jeongguk pressed himself against a wall of an alley, peeking out every second as to watch for the nightguard pacing the entrance; he was built bulkier than Hoseok or Jeongguk, leaving it to Jin to take him out from the inside.

Without Taehyung or Jimin, the plan had become twisted—Jeongguk had taken Jimin’s job, and Jin had taken Taehyungs—which led for them to be overworked.  A mistake was bound to happen.  You prayed for one.

Yet, the scene unfolded before you without a hitch.  Jin had quickly taken the bulky guard into a chokehold.  Because Jin had such broad shoulders, the guard stood no chance.  You winced as you watched him fall limply to the floor.  Jin entered the building once more.

Jeongguk stood in front of the entrance to the Louvre, swallowing his pride as he turned to look at you.  

“Do you remember what I said?”

You nodded.

“Do you understand what will happen?”

You nodded.

“Do you understand the consequences if it doesn’t?”

You nodded, reluctantly.

Namjoon continuously hit bumps in the road, leading you to believe he did it simply for your discomfort.  Every bump made a small tingle in the collar strapped to your neck, causing you to whimper.  You could faintly hear Jeongguk chuckle.

He fiddled with his thumbs, bending over as he propped his elbows on his knees.  He began to lecture you. “Namjoon said you were bait, and only bait,” he began.  Hoseok sneered, rolling his head back as he groaned loudly.  “I hope this goes smoothly,” his head rolled back forward, cocked to the side with a sinister grin, “because then I can kill you.”

Jeongguk ignored Hoseok’s comment, continuing.  “If something goes wrong, we throw you out in exchange for us escaping.”  He turned his gaze to you.  It was the same disgusting look he had when he first met you.  You unknowingly began to rub your hand.  “If nothing goes wrong, Namjoon said we could do whatever we want.”  He grinned.  

“I have no interest in you, but Hoseok does.” 

You were lead down the familiar spiral staircase, Hoseok trailing behind you as Jeongguk led.  His fingers tugged at the chain between your wrists.  

The museum was silent, with the only noise being that of several footsteps.  Two more nightguards laid at the bottom of the staircase, Jin, following not far behind with a prideful smirk.  He was happy of his handiwork.  

The four of you stood at the end of the staircase, each of the boys barking orders at each other.  Jimin had obviously been the leader of the boys who carried out the robberies.  Without his intellect and leadership, it was an all-out brawl on who was correct.

“Something’s not right, Gguk.  I don’t trust this,”

“You say that about everything, shithead.”

“Shut up, Jin.  You’re only a fill in.”

“Oh, I’m sorry—I didn’t realize that I had to answer to the youngest twat.”

As they bickered, you zoned in on the ceiling.  Various camera surrounded the area.  Yoongi was right; they were dumb.

Red lights continued to flash indicating recording was in progress.

Yoongi sat in a swivel chair twice the size of him, his knees to his chin as an endless train of tortilla chips found their way into his mouth.  He wore loose black basketball shorts and an oversized, white, long-sleeved shirt.  He was the epitome of comfort. Yoongi chuckled as he saw your doe-like eyes stare into one of the cameras, a smile tracing over your features.

“I’m right here, baby.”

He shoved another handful into his mouth, stretching his arms.