#t’challa fic

[lesbianjackies]

🐈‍⬛t’challa masterlist🐈‍⬛

key: ❤︎︎ - fluff, ☁︎︎ - angst, ★ - smut

coming soon!

[theunsweetenedtruth]

The Unsweet Masterlist

Welcome to "The Unsweetened Truth," a haven for those who crave raw and authentic romance narratives featuring Black protagonists. As the author behind these narratives, I invite you to join me on a journey where the stories reflect my real life with a giant sprinkle of delusion. But be warned: the content found within these pages is intended for mature audiences only, with themes and imagery that reflect the complexities of adult relationships. So, take a seat, immerse yourself in the stories, and discover the unfiltered beauty of romance through the eyes of Black protagonists. And remember, all content is exclusive to this platform, protected under #unsweetimagines—because some truths are meant to be savored, not shared.

* indicates smut

The Adored One (Complete)*

Nereyda is a member of the Doras—a marginalized class whose purpose is solely for pleasure. But Nereyda is no ordinary Dora; she holds a special place as the chosen companion of Prince T'Challa.

The Adored One* | Giving You the Best | Warmth* | What You Won't Do* | On Your Mind | All This Love | Yours*

Who Hurt You (One Shot)*

T'Challa, the esteemed leader of Wakanda, ventures into the dimly lit confines of a hidden establishment, not as a king, but as a man driven by his own desires. There he finds you.

Come Sit On My Lap (One Shot)*

T'Challa isn't paying enough attention to you so you decide to go out without him. You're not ready for the repercussions.

Promises (Complete)*

Erik left more than just his girl behind. It was time to keep some of his promises.

1* | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8* | 9 | 10 | Erik's Packing List

Voyeurism (One Shot)*

Discipline (One Shot)*

Another Again (One Shot)

Kinksize

Happy

The Marriage Pact (In Progress)

Honey and Erik make a pact.

Dec 2020 |

[dontask-idkeither]

Hold me by the heart

Shuri x Black!Fem!Reader

Word count: 1.4k

Summary: When Shuri is at her absolute worst, you were always right there to hold her and comfort her.

Translation: Ungubani -> Who are you?

Note: T’Challa is very heavily involved here and the overall all fic is pretty sad. This also heavy with grief and has a major Wakanda Forever spoiler, just in case you haven’t watched the movie yet.

Y/F/N means your father’s name, I couldn’t really think of a name to put for that so

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

2016

Being an war-dog stationed in Austria was not how you expected to be spending your 18th and 19th years of life. After a year in the Austria, you missed everything about home. The air, the water, the people, the food, your culture, your family, your girlfriend. You were sat on the couch in the apartment that had been given to you, clicking through tv stations.

You got to the news to see that the Vienna International Center had been bombed. You sat up as you listened to the headline. When the broadcaster said that King T’Chaka of Wakanda had been assassinated, your heart stopped.

Images of the building on fire, smoke clouds darkening the sky, flashed on your screen. But they didn’t register. The only thing flooding your mind was that your King was dead. Your countries ruler was gone.

And then your mind drifted to your girlfriend, the princess of Wakanda, Shuri. You hadn’t noticed your tears until heavy knocks came to your door. You wiped the tears and looked through the peephole.

There you saw two members of the Dora Milaje at his side. You immediately opened the door and they glided in.

“Ungubani” “Y/N, daughter of Y/F/N” You pulled your bottom lip down to show your war-dog tattoo to the Dora.

T’Challa walked into the apartment. You didn’t look at him for very long, as you lightly bowed your head, but the devastation was clear as day.

“My Prince.” You said as you bowed lightly. You knew very well you weren’t required to do this, it was more so to please the Dora than because of a distant relationship.

T’Challa just pulled you into a hug which you returned instantly. You stayed there for some time, trying to comfort the man you had known as an older brother for years.

He pulled away but left a hand on your shoulder “It’s time for you to come home.” You nodded and you knew the implications behind it.

You knew T’Challa wouldn’t be returning home for long, he was telling you so you could be there for Shuri.

You packed away your things as fast as possible and hurried to the Royal Talon Fighter. The flight was spent mostly in silence, you leaning on T’Challa’s shoulder as a form of comfort. He greatly appreciated it.

When you landed, you were overcome with nerves. You hadn’t been home in a year and the first time you return, is because the man you viewed as a second father was now with the ancestors.

You stood at the top of the stairs and almost went into a panic. T’Challa’s hand squeezed your shoulder in encouragement, you took a deep breath and descended down the stairs.

You saw your girlfriend and her mother standing side by side in front of the palace. Her red, teary eyes lit up when she saw you. She waited until you were some feet away from the plane before she ran into your arms.

You welcomed her and held the back of her head. The world didn’t matter as you held her, all you wanted was to ease her pain. “Thank you for coming.” She said through her tears.

“Shh, no need to thank me.” You pulled away to hold her face, her hands held your wrists. “I will always be here for you.”

2018

N’Jadaka had killed T’Challa. Right in front of your eyes. Your body and mind had gone numb. You sat in one of Wakanda’s lush forests, and for the first time the scenery of Wakanda didn’t have any effect on your sour mood.

Your heartbroken girlfriend sat between your legs, holding your knee as she cried. You had one hand massaging her scalp. Her mother sat in front of you, holding her hand and yours.

“First Baba, and now my brother. Mama we didn't even get to bury him.” You shushed her. Ramonda wiped her tears.

You wished you could be of more comfort for her, but your own pain was rendering you silent.

In a way though, the severity of your own emotion helped Shuri understand that she was not alone in this. She wouldn’t be missing her brother alone. She had her mother, and she had you.

2024

Shuri had been working around her lab trying to find a cure for her brother. You had gone some time before to say your goodbyes to T’Challa in the event he didn’t make it.

You told him how much he meant to you, as a brother, a friend, and as an overall inspiration. You told him that if he didn’t have any fight left in him, that it was ok. That you would take care of his beloved mother and baby sister, that you would protect them with your life. You told him that you would dedicate your life to protecting his honor and his memory, and to making him proud.

With a final squeeze of his hand, you left the room he was in and ran back to the lab. Over the years, Shuri had taught you a lot about technology and you were ready to offer your help in any way you could.

When you got to the lab, people were rushing out. You walked in confused. You saw Shuri standing alone at one of her tables. You walked over to her and before you could say anything, you saw Ramonda walk in.

You felt nauseous because you knew what this meant. You tried to hold it back, but a sob ripped through your chest and you turned away.

“Griot, whats my brothers heart rate?” Shuri asked, voice thick with fear.

“Your brother, is with the ancestors.”

Shuri slowly walked backwards, all the emotion hitting at once. She only heard a faint ringing in her ears and her head felt as if it would explode. Before she fell to the floor in complete agony, your arms wrapped around her weak body.

You eased her way to the floor and she held your biceps tight as she loudly cried. Seeing her in this much pain only worsened your own, you threw your head back as to not see the hurt. You bit your lip so hard you tasted hints of blood. Ramonda slowly walked over to her grieving girls.

The funeral

You still did not feel worthy to walk alongside the Royal Family through this. Despite all the assurances by Ramonda that you belonged there, and Shuri saying how badly you were needed, you still felt unworthy.

You swallowed those insecurities and walked with your head high, but face riddled with exhaustion and all the overall grief you were facing.

T’Challa’s coffin was placed on the ground and before it was lifted, Shuri placed her body over it. Ramonda went to pull her back, but you lightly put your arm in front of her. She looked at you with confusion but you knew Shuri needed this moment.

She didn’t get to properly say goodbye to her own brother, this was her own way of doing that now. After some time, you moved your arm and nodded. Ramonda lightly pulled a broken Shuri from her brother’s coffin and back to her feet.

Shuri placed her face in your neck and you placed your hand on the back of her head.

2025

After the passing of King T’Chaka, you never thought you would leave Wakanda again. Now after losing T’Challa and Ramonda, and all the death you saw in your country, you couldn’t bear to be there. You needed to be far, in order to heal.

That is how you ended up with Shuri in Haiti. You had burned your funeral garments together on the beach and began to heal together.

Right now you sat in your room, writing in your journal. Writing out every thought and feeling you had throughout the day. Shuri had gone for a walk, she felt she needed to be alone with her thoughts.

You had no clue how long you had been writing when the door to your room creaked open. You looked up with a smile to see your lover, but your smile fell when you saw the state she was in.

Her thoughts had clearly taken her down a dark path. She stood in the doorway pulling at her sleeve as she cried. You almost jumped from your chair to hold her.

She kept her arms where they were but she just cried even harder when you held her. “I’m here love. I’m here.”

To that she pulled you in even closer. “Make it stop…” she begged to no one in particular. Your heart broke even further.

You wished you could. You wished you could take all her pain away. Wished you could take all for yourself. But you couldn’t.

What you could and would do, is hold her. Hold her through it all just as you had always done.

[mythomars]

Something Special

Last mission had been a hard one. Nothing was particularly special about it, just some guy trying to take over the world…again. Clint had already forgotten the name and he didn't really care, all he wanted was to be done with the day. Of course the day seemed to have other plans. Everyone had gathered in the main room of the mansion, relaxing all around each other. It wasn't an awkward silence by any means; it was comfortable. With only the soft scratching of Steve’s pencil while he drew filling the void. The rest of the team was half asleep, still in uniform.

T’challa enters the main room with water and some snacks then disperses them to anyone who wants them before sitting next to Hawkeye. Clint’s heart fluttered a little as he looked over. He had liked the Panther for a while but being that he was a king meanwhile Clint was just some guy he never bothered to say anything. Though it wasn't lost on T’challa how much more time Clint was spending in the lab whenever the Panther was there. Clint however, played it off as wanting to bug Tony and steal the stashes of snacks.

The Panther passes over a water bottle to Clint and he graciously accepts, downing half the bottle as soon as it was in his hands. T’challa takes off his mask then rubs the sleepiness out of his eyes. Clint couldn't help but watch as T’challa also drank a good amount of water. The Panther didn't take his mask off often around the team so Clint took his time noticing how soft and full T’challa’s lips looked or how his eyes glimmered in the setting sunlight. The Panther notices Clint’s staring and he looks back in slight confusion; the Hawk busies himself by inspecting an arrow and adjusting his hood in an attempt to hide the blush creeping onto his face. T’challa continues his look for a moment before coming to a seemingly satisfying conclusion in his mind then too busied himself with his phone.

Clint didn't realize he was falling asleep till his head fell onto T’challa’s shoulder but by then he was too exhausted to move away and Panther didn't seem to mind so he fell asleep right there. If anyone saw T’challa pull Clint a little closer they didn't say anything. Clint also didn't mention that he woke up tucked in his bed with his bow and quiver right by the night stand. He tried not to think about how easy it must've been for T’challa to carry him up here as he walked to the kitchen.

You would think Clint would get used to seeing everyone in domestic regular clothes and for the most part he has but T’challa has to be messing with him at this point. T’challa chose to wear a somewhat tight purple shirt and a pair of black baggy sweatpants. There really was nothing special about the outfit but Clint was captivated. He was so lost staring at the Panther he almost missed Cap making pancakes. Only reason he pulled his eyes away was because he was starving after not taking a snack before passing out.

Clint really tried to keep these thoughts out of his head. He knew Panther only saw him as a friend and nothing more. But it was so hard to do so when T’challa had his big soft hands on Clint’s face, checking for damages after a sparring session. Now Clint wishes he had those hands everywhere on his body. Clint desperately pushes those thoughts away so he doesnt start blushing and melting under T’challa’s gentle and observant gaze.

T’challa knows exactly what he's doing to Clint. He’s known since the near beginning when Clint started to show his interest. Now T’challa is just messing with him but he's also waiting for a good time to actually show his interest in a proper way; he doesn't want any other Avengers present. Despite them all being his friends he wants this to be an intimate moment between him and Clint and not have Tony make comedic quips during the entire thing. Although it is admittedly fun to watch Clint squirm and blush while T’challa waits for the perfect moment.

Eventually T’challa gets his moment. Thor is off in Asgard, Hulk and Wasp are on patrol, Hank is talking with the Fantastic Four and Cap and Iron Man are taking down some rogue Hydra goons. Clint sits in the main room playing some game while T’challa watches as he pretends to read. This is the first time the king has actually felt nervous about this entire thing. He’s certain Clint has more experience than him in the dating field and he wasn't quite sure how to go about this.

T’challa eventually stands up and walks over to Clint, taking the controller out of his hands. Before Clint can protest, T'challa kisses Clint on the lips. Clint freezes for a moment and T’challa worries hes royally fucked up and misread the situation entirely. T’challa begins to pull away but Clint quickly wraps his arms around The Panther and deepens the kiss. T’challa gently pushes his tongue against Clint’s lips and Clint happily obliges and parts his lips enough for T’challa to slip his soft tongue into Clint’s mouth and Clint is thrown into another world of bliss as Panther’s sharp canines scrape his bottom lip. They eventually reluctantly pull apart, the only sound being their soft pants.

“Could you not have waited ‘till I finished my game?” Clint quipped jokingly. T’challa only chuckles in response. They spent the rest of the evening together in the main room, not needing to speak. They both knew something special had formed between them.

[satashiiwrites]

Snippet sunday

Tagged by @monsterrae1 for a seven snippet sunday. Thanks for the tag Rae! I’m pretty sure @outtoshatter also tagged me for a wip whenever earlier this week when I was mostly focusing on surviving the work week (so thanks Gia!).

Low pressure tagging @outtoshatter (you never said no tag backs!) @tkwritesdumbassassins @alyxmastershipper @westernlarch @missanniewhimsy @whimsyswastry @rosieposiepuddingnpie @quietborderline and whoever else wants to play along

From my rough trade project that I’m yeeting tonight.

Title: Scintillation (excerpt from chapter 3)

Fandom: MCU

Pairings: Winteriron, Erik Killmonger/T’Challa, one sided Stucky. Tony Stark & Ho Yinsen.

Tags/warnings: panic attack this chapter. Erik is a warning in and of himself. Deals with canon events with canon level violence + added sex (not this snippet).

Through the bond, Tony can feel that James is… happy. 

He doesn’t know what to do with this feeling and it’s very distracting. 

“How am I not boring you?”  He doesn’t mean for it to sound defensive but it does. 

James is amused instead of offended. “You’re passionate about figuring things out and it animates you.  Why would I not like something that you find interesting?”

Tony is perplexed. “Most people don’t?”

“I am not most people.  I’m your sentinel.”

If he’s telling the truth, Tony’s often been told to get to the point.  He’d been coached on how to make business presentations and had maybe self-medicated with alcohol for years.  Extremis had put a final kibosh on what little drinking he’d done after the whole palladium-poisoning pity party had blown up in his face. 

What was the point of drinking if you couldn’t get drunk unless you actively were trying to poison yourself?  He’d noticed that James didn’t mind a beer or two but otherwise didn’t really touch the stuff. 

“You don’t drink do you?” Tony asks, already onto the next topic. 

“It doesn’t really do much for me and… well….”

“Well what?”

James’ eyes go unfocused, like he’s seeing straight through Tony.  “We used to party when we were on leave—didn’t get too many of them.  One time me and the Howlies were in London and Steve was spending time with his dame, Peggy, and Howard was with us too… it was a bad bombing that night.  I haven’t… I didn’t like those memories and I associate it with being drunk.”

“When exactly did you become a supe?”

“A supe?” James arches an eyebrow playfully and Tony can feel the teasing tug on their bond. 

“A super soldier.  Like Steve.”

James frowns, thinking which feels like an itch at the back of Tony’s brain now that he’s focusing on how the sentinel feels through their bond. “I… things weren’t normal after he rescued me.”

“You mean the first time?”  Tony doesn’t think that James means Steve’s most recent rescue attempt. 

“Yeah. I mean, I could get drunk but it took a lot.  Was told I was being a right unfunny bastard by Dum Dum because I was hogging the liquor and he wanted me to share.”

“So you were showing signs of the serum?”

James shakes his head minutely, rubbing his hands through his hair and tugging on it to show the question was difficult for him to answer. “I… I think I was starting to come online as a sentinel.”

Tony considers this information which is new.  There’d been many failures over the years to reproduce the super soldier serum that had made Steve. Hell, Extremis’ fix had used his dad’s VitaRays as a starting point to solve the energy overload problems. Tony knew the VitaRays weren’t the part that had worked to make Steve into Captain America, despite some other research to the contrary that SHIELD may or may not have funded. 

“Was Steve online before the serum?”

James’ attention refocuses on Tony.  “Yeah.  I’m pretty sure he came online when his mom died.  She was just like him and both of them wouldn’t stand for any sort of thing they thought was wrong.  I spent a lot of time rescuing Steve after he picked a back alley fight with someone twice his size and three times as mean.”

“I’ve seen pictures of what he looked like before the serum.  It really transformed him.”

“I didn’t recognize him at first when he showed up in Austria. He… it wasn’t just how he looked.  He smelled different.”

“Well he’d been running around dodging bullets and bombs so it makes sense that he’d smell like a war.”

“I’m not talking that.  I’m talking… everyone smells slightly different.  It’s… it’s your smell,” James tries to explain, wrinkling his nose and rubbing it. “Steve smelled different after he became a super soldier.”

“Huh.  What do I smell like?”

James’ smile takes on a hungry edge.  “Darling…”

“What do I smell like to a sentinel?”

Instead of answering, James rolls them so that Tony is beneath him.  Closing his eyes, the sentinel breathes in deeply through his nose twice before he lowers himself to settle his weight between Tony’s legs and press his nose to the angle of Tony’s jaw.  It’s not sexual, the bond hums with intense focus and Tony doesn’t feel trapped so he lightly rests his hands on James’ back. 

“Babe?”

James’ inhale in noisy because he does it with his face pressed against Tony’s, eyes fluttering open as he stares right into Tony’s eyes.  “You smell like home.  Like you’re mine,”

The tenderness of his sentinel’s affection laps at the bond like waves breaking on a distant shore. 

Tony’s never been someone somebody permanently wants.  He’s a one-night stand kind of guy because he gets too attached and then relationships implode—for example Pepper.  With Pepper he’s been able to keep their friendship but it’s not the same as it was.  He can tell sometimes that he tries her patience more than he used to, that he scares her when he does what he has to as Iron Man. 

He’s scared to take that final step with James.  To let him in all the way.  Nobody has liked what they’ve seen when they really look at Tony. They like the shiny baubles and the money.  The things he can do for them or give them.

Everyone tires of him eventually. 

“Darling—I don’t know what you’re thinking about right now but stop it,” James growls and it pulls Tony out of the maelstrom of pity and self-hatred he’d been sinking into. 

James’ hold is now claustrophobic and Tony pushes at him. “Can you please…?”

The sentinel rolls away as if burned and sits up next to Tony.  “Tony?”

“Sorry.  I know it’s too much,” Tony has climbed out of bed and is standing awkwardly next to it. James and Elsa—who he’d forgotten—are both watching him with matching expressions of concern. It’d be funny if Tony wasn’t holding on by his fingernails to stop the panic attack threatening to overwhelm him from taking over. 

Before he can completely shatter, T’Challa’s shields cover his, filling in the widening cracks. He hears a snarl of a big cat and Erik’s concerned “Tones?” before he passes out, overwhelmed. 

[songficsbyrissi]

CALLING ALL “THE FIX” READERS!!!! WHERE Y’ALL AT?!?!!?

[chaneajoyyy]

T'Challa doesn't play about her! Gotta make sure her pregnancy is going smoothly! Love this for her!! Oh she was gonna make sure he was thanked for getting her food. I loved this!👍🏾🤌🏾👏🏾💓!

Like a Cream Puff (T’Challa x OC)

Prompt: “You deserve some sex.”

Word Count: 1,072

Warnings: Domestic Fluff & Implied Sexual References

She caught sight of the box from her favourite bakery and sat right up.

“Did you get the one with the —“

“Lychee? Yes.” He replied busying himself around the room and plating the large cream puffs.

His back was turned as he shuffled around the various takeout bags on their chest of drawers.

She caught a glimpse of the Popeyes bag in his hand and bit her lip in anticipation.

“Did you get the chicken mild? Because the spicy one —“

He cut her off. “Gives you heartburn? I know that mama.” He replied in amusement, back still turned.

“And I asked for lemonade. The one from —“

“Burger King? It’s right here.” He continued lifting up the large cup and shaking it lightly.

Perspiration beaded on the exterior of the cup and Corina heard the ice meet the sides rhythmically. It soothed her.

She was probably doing the most but she couldn’t help it.

When he shot her a look over his shoulder she smiled sheepishly.

He walked over with a plate of cream puffs and chicken tenders and placed them on the nightstand, before sitting on the edge of the bed.

He grabbed her hand in his. Admiring the smooth skin

He pinched the inside of her wrist softly and her eyes shot up to meet his.

“I listen to everything you say. I may not say much but I lock it away right up here.” He pointed to his temple with one hand while rubbing circles on her hand in the other.

“I know… thank you. I don’t know what I’d do without you.” She leaned forward and placed a grateful kiss on his cheek.

“Go ahead.” He encouraged her to eat what she had asked him for.

She reached for the plate, settled it on her lap and paused.

Her eyes began to water. What had she done to deserve this man?

It was 8:30pm on a Sunday night and they had just packed in for the night. Corina was 7 months along her second pregnancy but never got less demanding when it came to her cravings.

So when she tried (and failed) to curb her wants she had sheepishly asked her husband for the snacks their baby demanded.

T’challa got up without complaint to get what she wanted even though he had a slew of meetings the next day.

Without question.

“You always take such good care of me”. Before she could stop them tears were rolling down her face, she tried to blink them away rapidly.

Her damn hormones had her crying *all* the time.

He had an almost baffled look on his face.

“Of course I do. You’re my everything. I’ll always take care of you and your needs. You’re my woman. It's my job.”

He brushed away the tears that slid down her face with his fingers.

“No more crying please.” He requested.

She laughed in a watery fashion before quickly wiping away her tears. She sniffed.

“Okay.”

“Now eat your chicken before it gets cold.”

“Yes sir.” She threw up a mock salute.

Ignoring his direct request she went for the cream puffs instead. Grabbing the large pastry with a delicate hand. She lifted it to her mouth and bit into the cream puff and couldn't contain her moan.

The cream had a slight tartness to it and the crisp of the pastry created a melody in her mouth.

She heard him laughing quietly to himself.

“That good huh?”

“Uh huh.” She nodded as she licked some cream from the center of the puff.

He watched as she did a little happy dance before taking a chicken tender in her other hand and biting into it.

She shimmied her shoulders as she chewed.

He loved seeing her like this. Happy. Fulfilled.

“T’challa you deserve some sex. After this I’m going to give you some.” she promised shoulders still moving.

He shook his head at her, adorning eyes admiring her.

“Sounds like a plan.” He said knowing that as soon as his wife finished her food she would knock right out.

When she made it to the end of her tender she did the most pregnant woman thing ever. Almost like she was fighting an urge she dipped the chicken tender in the cream and popped it in her mouth.

T’challa worked hard to school his features, but had to turn his head to the wall to prevent himself from teasing.

“It’s good.” She said defensively.

“I’m sure it is mama.” He pat her leg before standing up and heading to his closet to change back into his sleepwear.

It gave Corina enough time to polish off her snacks and wash her hands.

She had just finished settling into the bed when she saw her man approach.

He was shirtless and wore a pair of sleep shorts that hit his mid thigh. Quite frankly he was dressed like a slut. She wanted some of that.

She stared at his thighs hungrily and he was completely oblivious to her oogling.

When he settled into the bed and reached to turn his lamp off Corina's hand stopped him.

He turned his head slightly.

“What’s up?”

“It’s your turn.”

“Hm?”

She leaned over and slipped what she could of her hand around his torso. Her bump restricted her movements but she was a woman on a mission

He covered her hand with his in comfort.

“It's time for you to fill me up like a cream puff.”

T’Challa gave her a blank stare before cringing.

“That… that was so bad.” He snickered.

“C’mon baby. I want it.” She pouted, sliding her hand over her husband's package.

She rubbed him gently before trying to slip her hand down his shorts.

“Cor —“

He turned around and grabbed her hands, now he was facing her.

“What’re you doing?” He asked esparated.

She looked down. “This one may want some company in there.”

She rubbed her belly looking up at him with wide eyes. She watched him swallow. She decided to press forward.

“You never know.” She shrugged.

Now they both knew that was very impossible. But T'challa's dick liked hearing it anyways.

He groaned.

She knew how much he loved her pregnant and this was all she needed to use to get him right when she wanted him.

Inside her.

___

A/N: Hope you like this one. I have some one shots with Erik on the way :) Not much progress on In Between the Lines but working on it! Always open to requests ✨

[cinelitchick]

New MCU AU on its way

If you like the pairing of T’Challa x Everett Ross and enjoy romantic thrillers, my next one-shot is just for you.

[satashiiwrites]

Scintillation, Chapter 3

First of the month, time to update some fics since NaNo has ended…

Title: Scintillation, Chapter 3

Fandom: MCU

Pairings: Tony Stark/James “Bucky” Barnes, Erik Killmonger/T’Challa, one-sided Steve Rogers/James “Bucky” Barnes

Fic summary:

Everything changed for Tony Stark in a cave in Afghanistan.  For years he’s been dealing with the fallout of the shrapnel imbedded in his chest—both physical and mental—in his own ways. He’s got an arc reactor in his chest and demons that stalk him in his mind as he becomes Iron Man and eventually an accepted part of the Avengers during the attack on New York City.

All he has to do is keep giving people what they want.  That’s the lesson learned. 

Die, resurrect, live as much as you can. Wash, rinse, repeat.  He thought he’d known why he was the way he was… but he and everyone else missed one tiny little detail caused by his repetitive brushes with death. 

Or, a guide coming online as he almost dies yet again at the hand of a friend shatters the controls put upon the Winter Soldier and sends Sentinel James Buchanan Barnes fully online and into a feral rage in the middle of Siberia. 

Steve’s lucky T’Challa’s there to rescue him from his best friend gone feral. 

Tags/warnings: MCU canon levels of violence. Howard Stark’s A++parenting, panic attacks, PTSD, unhealthy coping mechanisms, Denial ain’t just a river in Egypt, will eventually have bonding sex (and other explicit sex acts for enjoyment—no rape), issues of consent with Sentinel bonding with a guide to save their life, Sentinel/Guides are known, spirit animals, Discussions of racism (T’Challa, Erik and Tony have some talking to do), interrelationship and partner violence mentioned, Discussion of child neglect (Tony and Erik) and poverty (Erik, Steve, Bucky), Not Kind to Steve Rogers (eventually he gets better), other tags to be added later—will warn at top of chapter if not listed here although I feel like Erik is his own kind of warning. 

T'Challa wakes before Erik. He exhausted his sentinel last night, pushing them both to the point where there hadn't been any residual resistance in their bond, which hums strongly between them.  

That lingering resistance had been maddening. A constant tug and irritation that he didn't have his sentinel fully because they'd been interrupted before they could complete the bond like they had last night. 

He shouldn't have listened to his mother or Zuri for so long—he'd hurt his sentinel with his reticence. The one thing an orphan from California hadn't needed from his true-match guide was hesitation because he wasn't one of them. 

Read chapter 3 here on AO3

[eternal-ascensionism]

Song Fic maybe???

Hii! I have a request for you, its a Bucky Barnes x avenger!reader idea with the song "Love Again" by Dua Lipa. Where maybe reader has been through some tough/ toxic relationships and swears off of romance once they joined the avengers but then when Bucky returns from Wakanda the reader begins to develope a crush on Bucky as he flirts with them after having a crush on her from the moment he met them. Maybe the reader thoughts align with the lyrics of the song and in the end the reader lets their heart open and starts dating Bucky after he knocks down all of thier walls :) (Also reader can be female or GN and I tried to give you some like guide but didn't want to restrict you!) Hope you have a good day :D

Ok first anon I love you sm for puttin me on this song it BANGS and I love this idea sm!!!

This is technically more like avengers assistant!reader because I suck at finding cohesive ways to fit an original character into the avengers team ((I have tried since I was 16 LMAO)) but hopefully it still works! Hope you enjoy!

Heaven’s Right Here, Baby 

Bucky x Avenger!Reader

Themes: Angst, comfort, fluff

Warnings:Angst; discussions of: war, PTSD, abusive relationships, trauma bonding, etc. (if you pick up on any I’ve missed pleeease let me know!!)

💗

I glance upward as I hear the rumble above, eyes squinting against the sun’s rays. For some unknown reason, I’d been expecting some grand aircraft; a sleek jet or maybe one of the large helicarriers I’d seen in the hangar back at the Avengers’ HQ when I first arrived. What I was met with was a rather modest plane I’d estimate could fit ten passengers at best. It didn’t really matter, I knew the man aboard couldn’t care less about materialism or prestige. Still, he was one of our team’s brightest and most respected members. It simply felt odd to receive him back via such underwhelming conditions. 

Up until this point, I’d only ever worked basic civilian jobs or the occasional temp gig. However after a particularly traumatic breakup, I’d decided that being miserable and barely living above the poverty line wasn’t cutting it anymore. It took a good few years and a considerable amount of ass kissing, but I eventually got offered a role as an assistant of sorts for Nick Fury in New York City.

Natasha was the first person I’d found myself bonding with; the first night I’d spent in the tower was a long one, and she had spent a large chunk of it comforting me by making me laugh with her Captain America impression. Funnily enough, I’d meet Steve Rogers the next morning in the kitchen. He walked into the kitchen and shook my hand, exchanging names and pleasantries with me as the rest of the team filtered in. I watched anxiously as they all began to dig into the food; I couldn’t pinpoint why, but I found myself desperate to impress each of my new coworkers.

Introductions were made, meals were finished, and I beamed at the compliments toward my cooking. To my surprise the conversations seemed to flow naturally. I couldn’t help but linger on one man in particular, though. His metal arm gleamed brilliantly in the lighting of the spacious dining area. He was a man of few words. Bucky, they called him. The next month consisted of me making a fool of myself through several missions, distracted each time by that smolder and the tortured look behind his eyes. It was a look I knew all too well. Still, I didn’t dare approach sergeant Barnes out of fear. Whether it be fear of authority or my lingering fear of men, I wasn’t sure. Didn’t make much difference; the less interactions, the better. The last thing I needed was to get in over my head during what’s meant to be my fresh start.

Today was his return from the last stage of a program for training and rehab that began long before I came into the picture. From what I understood, it all began a few years back when the late King T’Challa harbored Bucky; partly as a favor to Steve, and partly out of respect for the sergeant. He saw James Buchanan Barnes beyond the outgrown hair and the guarded demeanor. He saw someone worth fighting to save. By the time I’d arrived, his reserved nature had let up a bit. We both exhibit similar acts such as hypervigilance, but I suppose that’ll always remain in some small way. We’re part of the team tasked with ensuring the safety of earth, after all.

I wave a hand to Bucky as he steps off the walkway, a bag slung over his shoulder. When he sees me and the team, he shoots us a small grin. It wasn’t until he made it halfway across the asphalt that I registered the changes of his left arm. The once scuffed and faded titanium had been replaced with a new, higher quality gold and silver prosthetic.

“Vibranium,” Bucky offers, having picked up on my stare. “Shuri helped me.”

I felt a pang in my chest as he looked at it proudly. It was the same ache I’d gotten every time I’d bore witness to sergeant Barnes letting pieces of his real self shine through. I could try and lie to myself, but I’m grown. I know what it means to have feelings for someone. As much as I’d fought to stay neutral from the beginning, something about Bucky had always pulled at my heart. I would never let him know, but he’d melted some part of me that I’d spent years freezing out. Still, I’d vowed to keep to the professional relationship I’ve created with the former soldier. I couldn’t risk letting something like random feelings of fondness jeopardize my job. I am here to help others and to run away from my demons, nothing more and nothing less.

-

“I never thought that I would find a way out, I never thought I’d hear my heart beat so loud. I can’t believe there’s something left in my chest anymore”

-

Upon our entry to the tower, we were met by the quiet humming of music. Puzzled, we all made our way to the lounge area where we found Tony behind the bar in the corner. He raised a glass of amber-colored liquid in our direction as a greeting. “Welcome back, Barnes. Dig the new scrap pieces.”

Bucky rolled his eyes and pointed to the speakers built into the tall ceiling overhead. “Thanks. What’s with the music?” Swinging around the bar to stand in front of us, Tony smirked.

“What? Can’t we have a little homecoming celebration? We missed you, bud.” Before he could reply, Natasha interjected, grabbing Tony’s free hand.

“In that case, let’s dance. You’ve only got six months before your wedding and Pepper is gonna kill you if you step on her white heels.”

I watch in glee as Nat drags Tony away to the open space near the couch to practice his moves for the big day. Everyone branched off into pairs, leaving me standing at the bar with a can of soda while Bucky perched on the arm of the recliner. These little moments of joy made being alive less painful each day. I continued observing my teammates for a while before hearing someone clear their throat from beside me. “Wanna dance, doll?”

The low timbre gave him away without so much as a sideways glance. It was sergeant Barnes. Asking me to dance. With him. Ignoring the cold sensation shooting through my veins, I threw him a smile and nodded. Offering me a hand, we make our way over to the spot where the others are swaying to the crooning of an early 1900s love song. With the way Bucky and Steve perked up as it came on, I’d be willing to bet they were grooving to it back in the days of its first release. The thought warms my heart, and I risk placing my head on Bucky’s shoulder as we let the music guide us. Maybe trusting him for one dance wouldn’t hurt. Maybe it’s okay to let my guard down just this once.

-

“I never knew I had it in me to dance anymore, but god damn, you’ve got me in love again.”

-

Love. That’s what it was. I hated to admit it to myself, it scared me to the point of lost sleep and vomiting, quite frankly. But I couldn’t bear pretending any more. Bucky had been back in New York for all of two weeks before we started being sent on missions together to gather intel on a potential threat. I didn’t know the details, they only ever told me what was absolutely necessary to carry out a job. They explained it was so that if I were to be caught, I could play dumb as a simple civilian caught up in bigger matters on accident. You never know what tactics someone may have to pull the truth from you, but there’s nothing to be extracted if I truly know nothing. However, at the current moment, I wished for little more than to be pulled from this room and dragged elsewhere. I tear my eyes from my debrief notes to stare back at the disheveled man sat across from me. I had yet to fully process what he asked.

“What?” His frown deepens, and I almost regret asking him to repeat himself.

“Do you think I’m someone you could love?”

I was completely taken aback. Sure, the sergeant and I had some pretty deep conversations in the past. We weren’t incredibly close before his return, both of us being highly traumatized and reserved people; but pair long missions with hours spent staring off into the night watching for movement and we had begun to fill the void. He relayed stories of war and torture, and I recounted memories of toxic relationships and a traumatic childhood. It only seemed natural that we eventually progressed into becoming each other’s confidant over the last few months. When we accepted the latest task I expected us to exchange banter, maybe make up some new inside jokes. I didn’t expect it to devolve into a raw and emotional conversation about our past hurts and shortcomings. Bucky had opened up about the women he’d met before the war, branching off into a story where he’d tried to make something work with a woman he’d met briefly in Romania before he’d had to go back on the run. I could see the pain in his expression, I could hear the slight waver in his voice as he tried making sense of where he’d gone wrong in life to deserve it all.

Then he looked up at me, those big grey-blue eyes shining with unshed tears, and he asked me the one question that I know will change everything. Is he someone I could love? When he asked, I realized I already know the answer. I already know I love him.

“Yes.” He blinks at me, seemingly in shock, but I just continue. “I don’t have to think about it, Buck. I love you because you are worthy of being loved. I love you because you are inherently lovable. I love how you care about people, I love how you fight fiercely to protect them. I love how intelligent you are, and how you never use that against others. I love how you make me feel safe. I love how you’ve never given me a reason to question your motives like all the other men I’ve let into my life. I love you, and I didn’t even think I could love again.” I dabbed my sleeve over the wetness pooling under my eyes, chuckling at my own intense reaction. Discussing my feelings was never easy, but it just came naturally with Bucky.

Two hands came up to hold my cheeks as Bucky looked at my face, perhaps studying me for any sign of deceit or sarcasm. I meant every word, though. He wrapped me up in a tight hug, and after he pulled back, I felt a sudden confidence. I leaned in and pressed a soft peck to his stubble-covered cheek, delighting in the light red tint that washed over his face.

“I love you too, doll. I didn’t wanna scare you away, you mean the world to me. Just didn’t imagine you’d feel the same. Not that I’d blame you, with what you’ve told me about the others I wouldn’t blame ya if you never spoke to a man again.” Bucky laid a gentle kiss to the back of my hand that still rested in his. “Honored to be the one you trust.”

“Never have I ever met somebody like you, used to be afraid of love and what it might do. But god damn, you’ve got me in love again”

—!—

HELLO I REALLY HOPE THIS WAS WHAT YOU WANTED! I’m sorry it took me so long to finish I kept branching off with different ideas before settling on one cohesive concept and hopefully I did a decent job following your prompt! Thank you sooo much for the request this was super fun to write and honestly kickstarted my productivity which has been in the shitter since like pre 2020 lmao bless you guys <333

[imtryingbuck]

Happy at last

Pairing: Bucky Barnes x fem!Reader

Summary: The team lose their friend (I’m bad at summaries sorry)

Word count: 751

Warnings: fluffy (my attempt at it anyway), mention of suicide. there’s a bit in the fic that is most definitely wrong by law but just go with it okay? Okay. the last chapter

A/N: I’m really sorry this is short. This weekend hasn’t been the greatest so…anyways sorry if it’s shit but I genuinely don’t have the energy to do anymore. I do hope you enjoy it though and thank you to everyone who’s commented, liked and reblogged each chapter it truly means the world🤍

Masterlist   Series Masterlist

It’s been three years since Y/n and Bucky left hand in hand for Wakanda. The first nine months they were there was pretty hectic. 

Shuri got her prepped and ready for the deprogramming, which didn’t take as long as Bucky’s. When she was clear of her trigger words that Bucky had read out, just like she read his all them years ago.

Steve let Bucky know that the President had been arrested for his role at Hydra, just after he was arrested he committed suicide. His name was still tarnished and the whole world knew what he had done.

Y/n made sure that his mistress, the mother of his unborn child, Alisha Grey and Baby Grey’s bodies were found and given a proper burial, right next to where her grave lays.

The new President gave Y/n a full pardon and gave her the Presidential Medal of Freedom medal. Stating on national television that Y/n L/n was never a traitor but a hero. A hero that had been saving people’s lives since she was 16 years old and that’s what she should be always known and remembered for. A hero.

The bosses and agents of SHIELD were all fired for what they did to her. Some were even arrested and sent to prison.

The warden of the Raft was arrested and sent to prison for endangering life that he was in charge of and for abuse and neglect, as well as profiting from assaults. He got 20 years.

Hydra had finally been shut down completely, all agents arrested and charged to with life imprisonment.

Y/n and Bucky’s relationship started. After she was given the all clear Bucky didn’t waste a single millisecond to kiss her. Kissing her like his life depended upon it right in front of T’Challa, Shuri, Nakia and Okoye - who all cheered and clapped.

When the time came for them to go back to their other home, Bucky tried to convince her to stay-

“Doll we have a life here, we’re safe”

“But… then that means we’ll have a normal life”

“And?”

“I-I don’t know how to live a life that’s normal Buck, all my life I’ve been trained to fight from one fight to the next…”

“I know, and my love you’re not alone. I’m right here with you. We’ll do it together I promise living a normal life scares me too but we can continue to be happy here”

She hesitated, what he was saying was true and she knew that. Though she did have to admit she took to farming rather quickly, naming all their goats after members of the team and the bull they had after Fury. She also did enjoy helping out on the markets, bouncing from stall to stall. Loved helping the children with schoolwork and keeping them busy by playing with them when their parents were busy or tired. She especially loved the day she delivered a beautiful baby girl - bless Bucky’s heart he had to hear about it every day for nearly two weeks, in full detail.

She loved the feeling of being free. Free from the pain and suffering she either saw or went through. Free from one order to the next. Free to finally be herself.

But even if she did love that feeling she was terrified off it, what she had told Bucky wasn’t wrong, all of her life the only thing she knew what to do was to fight and to survive.

Wakanda was her home from the minute she stepped foot in the country many years ago, and with Bucky by her side she knew everything was okay, right?

“Okay…”

“Okay?”

“Okay we can stay” Bucky picked her up and spun her around until he lost his footing making them fall to the ground, it didn’t stop him from placing kisses upon kisses to her face.

The team understood when Bucky and Y/n told them that they was retiring, nor was they surprised by the two’s relationship.

One by one the team followed suit and retired too, all being welcomed openly by King T’Challa and the people of Wakanda.

Each and everyone of them had found happiness.

It’s now the 9th of March 2026, time currently is 11:54pm, their whole family is waiting outside the couples home wincing at hearing Y/n’s screams. 

The clock strikes 12:01 and all is heard is the cries of a baby.

Bucky runs out a few minutes later with tears streaming down his face.

“It’s a boy!”

<Previous

Tags: @unaxv @learisa @vicmc624 @bethexo07 @doublebassallie @cyberficlya @elijahssuit @sapphirebarnes @wasffginc @ladyvenera @casa-boiardi @cjand10 @iloveceandsswithallmyheart @violetwinterwidow01 @avocadotoastwithegg

~ banner credit goes to @sweetpeapod ~

[saintwrld]

MONEY AND LOVE 2

pairing: shuri x black fem!reader

summary: in which you and Shuri share a mutual interest between money and love

warnings: slight teasing, t’challa’s here 🥳

translations: sisi omncinci - little sister.

word count: 4.3k (half the size of the first one…)

saints's notes: welcome to saint records! i truly hope you enjoy this one. by FAR one of my fav fics i’ve written. sorrows, sorrows, prayers for taking so long with this one, i was just simpin over a bunch of men (still am) but you know i had to write for bae!

love y’all deep!

taglist: @taiiunknown, @playgurlxoxo, @abenomeiiii, @pinkwright, @verachii , @vampzxi , @izrinmabel1 , @marsology , @inmyheadimobsessed , @heejayy , @venusdusse , @oceean .

money and love pt.1

-

The silence of the store was slowly killing Justine and Leilani as they sat in the comfortable burgundy chairs. Patiently waiting for their friend, they drank the complimentary flutes of strawberry champagne.

"Why the fuck is it so quiet in here? Don't they got some quiet background music or sumn?" Leilani complained and slouched on the chair, hoping for you to come back quickly.

"Already felt some old geezer staring at me when we walked in like do i not look lesbian enough?" Justine expressed and looked at Leilani for an answer to which Lani just shook her head. "I don't?" Justine stressed, taking out her compact mirror from one of her pockets on her denim jacket.

Before Leilani could comment, she heard your voice as you walked closer and closer to where they were sitting. You walked in the room first with the sales associate trailing right behind you, holding two large orange boxes.

"Sorry I took so long guys, the Kelly's were a bit further and your custom scarves were sealed." You smiled at your friends, clasping your hands together, your Patek shining as the sun hit the diamonds.

Leilani stood up to hug you tightly and immediately walked to the sales associate, eagerly waiting for him to open the boxes already. You returned the hug and took a seat next to Justine who immediately held your hand as you sat, squeezing it as a sign that she was grateful. A little code you three made when you were flying into France two days ago.

"Okay ladies. I must admit, I am incredibly excited to reveal your Kellys for you. We'll start with Justine." He smiled at your best friend, putting special gloves on to touch the large box. He took the lid of the box and put it to the side, revealing the famous Hermés logo on the dust bag. He gently opened the dust bag to take out Justine's custom Kelly bag. The silver hardware on the bag had contrasted beautifully with the lilac colour, her name embroidered in the bottom corner of the bag.

Leilani's Kelly was slightly bigger than Justine's however hers had little flowers painted along the bottom, with the bag being the most beautiful shade of blue. Both girls had tears in their eyes as they held their bags, immediately tackling you into a group hug. "As long as you guys are happy, then I am as well."

Leaving the large boutique, you could feel the Dora Milaje's eyes on you three, keeping a close eye on you per Shuri's request. You see, the princess never hid her fondness for you from anyone really. The only one who had no clue what was going on was her older brother, T'Challa.

Reaching the Maybach SUV, you placed the bags in the trunk along with the other luxury bags that had filled the car as the day went by. As you entered the driver's seat, your best friends took their seats. You started the car and you drove to the last of your appointments in luxurious stores, Cartier.

You had planned this specific activity for the three of you very thoroughly as it's usually quite difficult to get appointments with this specific brand but because you are closely connected with Shuri, it was the easiest process. You were getting matching love bracelets with Justine and Leilani with a few customisations and although you already had quite the stack of these bracelets, one more couldn't hurt, right?

Admiring your pricey friendship bracelet, you had waited for your friends in their lounge already cozied up as you had paid before even boarding the private flight to France. It was quite a warm Saturday in Paris, the streets bustling with people walking everywhere. You just wanted to get back to the hotel to at least get a chance to call Shuri. She had excused herself earlier in the day to report to her country's needs and you knew that the time difference would be weird but you just wanted to check in on her.

"Miss Y/N." You were pulled out of your thoughts by Tobi, one of the Dora that was assigned to you. You hummed in response as you looked at her then your friends who were looking around the shop. "The Black Panther would like to inform you that she is okay and will be in contact with you soon." She reported. "Okay, thank you Tobi. Would you like anything here?" You asked and the shock on her face was prevalent, causing you to smile.

"O-oh no Miss, I cannot accept that." She replied and you shook your head, standing up. "I'm ordering you to choose something for yourself and please let the other Dora know. We won't leave until you all have something." You expressed, the smile on your face never leaving. Tobi hesitantly walked away to tell the others who had to come to you for confirmation of your choice. After 30 minutes, everyone walked out of Cartier and all drove to the hotel, exhausted yet delighted with today's activities.

Seeing as you shared the large penthouse on the top floor with Leilani and Justine, all three of you entered the penthouse elevator carrying all your shopping bags and immediately sighing the second the elevator doors closed. "Gahdamn, I haven't had such a workout since that Drake concert last month." Leilani breathed out as she placed the bags on the floor and held her hips.

"You mean the concert or Aubrey himself?" You teased, earning a little push on your arm as you and Justine burst out laughing. "Man, it ain't even like that." Leilani kissed her teeth. "Girl, we all know that man want you. No man just buys a Porsche for a little crush." Justine snickered. Leilani glared at the both of you before smiling a little. "Yeah but I signed up to be in my whorish era and plus he weird as hell."

"You are right about that one but does he know that you're not interested?" You questioned, noticing how slow this elevator was. "I told him but- oh my god, he's gonna write a song about me." Leilani slapped her hand over her mouth and looked visibly stressed. "I don't need bad blood with 21 Savage." She sulked and you both couldn't help but laugh.

The elevator door eventually opened and you were met with a beautiful surprise. Bouquets of white roses were lined up alongside a few candles. You stepped out first, absolutely mesmerised by the sight before you. Justine was about to step out too but Leilani pulled her back into the elevator. "Y/n! We'll be downstairs to check out a few cafés, you have fun now!" She called out to you as she repeatedly pressed the closing button until it finally shut, giving you your privacy.

Taking off your heeled boots, you walked through the penthouse, leaving your shopping bags in the foyer. You couldn't hear anything besides the streets of Paris below. Walking into the living area, you noticed the chocolate cupcakes on the coffee table. With that being your favourite dessert, you immediately reached for one however you felt a sharp tap on your shoulder. Turning around, you tried not to scream but you quickly realised that the stranger was Shuri in her Panther suit that you've never seen her in.

“Oh..my..god.” The only words that could come out spewed out of your mouth as you admired the suit that you had thought was a myth a few months back. The sun reflected on the gold and silver accents of the suit with you desperately wanting to reach your manicured hands onto it. Slowly looking at her face, you saw the shit-eating grin she had displayed on her lips as she watched you gawk over her. She absolutely loved seeing your reaction to the suit, wishing she could’ve recorded it.

“Hello my love.” Shuri rasped out, staring into your eyes as her finger hooked under your chin, her signature scent flooded your nose as she stood ever so close to you. Trying to find the words to say to to the Panther was hard, with you eventually deciding to give your lazy smile, one similar to the type of smile you’d give her after hours of pleasure.

“Hi Shuri.” You managed to get out as you felt her suit-clad arms wrap around your waist, her hands deciding to rest on your lower back, giving you shivers when she let one hand fall down to your ass. “Tell me about your day. I heard you were quite the gift giver.” She smirked as her hand kept rubbing the same spot on your side where you had a surprise for the royal.

“It was a cute day. Finally picked up the bags for the girls and just decided to spoil them today because they deserve it. With the Dora, I wanted everyone to leave Cartier with something so..” you answered, watching her react with an impressed smile on her face, making you feel like you accomplished something that she would be proud of you.

“And did you get yourself something, entle?” She questioned, letting go of your body as she turned to the couches in the living area to take a seat then patting her thigh, making you internally squeal at the thought of you sitting on her lap once again. Ever since that wonderful night, all you ever wanted to do was to recreate that moment but you were way too scared to initiate anything of that sort.

Walking over to her and straddling her as she relaxed her head on the couch as she watched you settle on her lap. “Well, I did get myself something for my graduation soon and a few clothes for that surprise you were talking about.” You replied, playing with your nails, avoiding her eyes completely. “I’m so proud of you, sthandwa. I’m glad that I’m by your side.” She expressed all while slowly sliding her hands on your thighs as she listened to you speak. Shuri absolutely loved these little moments of intimacy between the two of you, be it sexual or non sexual. She had said that she would give you the world and she’s working on making sure you see the appreciation she has for you.

She would pay millions to see your smile every day as the sun would shine on your beautiful brown skin.

-

Laying your head on her lap as she gently stroked your arm, you were completely unaware of where you were travelling to as you slept peacefully from the moment the Royal Talon Fighter took off from the rooftop of the Wakandan Social Centre in California after you dropped off Leilani and Justine, specifically at Drake’s house but that’s a story for another day.

Several minutes later, you felt a hand shake you a little as you stirred out of your sleep, not feeling the aircraft moving anymore. You opened your eyes to the interior of the aircraft, seeing a few of the Dora’s hastily walking out while a few stayed inside waiting for you to exit. You sat up to see Shuri staring at you with a smile on her face and she reached for your hand as she stood up before you. You quickly fixed your Fendi bucket hat along with the wig underneath it before taking her soft hand and standing, holding your phone in the other hand.

Walking down the ship slope, you couldn’t stop your eyes from looking everywhere. Breathing in the extremely clean air, you looked at the different Dora’s who were amused by your widened eyes taking in the space before you. Looking forward, you saw Okoye and Ayo standing at the end of the slope, looking ever so powerful. Beyond them, you saw figures standing in front of this grand building that you had yet to recognise.

Shuri had greeted Okoye and Ayo, along with Aneka who was excited to the young royal after Shuri had said that she has a surprise) and seeing the Dora’s that Shuri had been speaking very fondly about had heightened your anxiety. The three women turned to you with warm smiles on their faces as they observed you standing next to Shuri, sensing your anxiety.

“Hello Miss Y/n. Welcome to Wakanda.” Okoye had greeted and her words had made you stomach drop in excitement. Turning to Shuri with your hand covering your mouth from shock, she chuckled at you before placing her arm around you to bring you closer to her body. “O-oh u-uh um, hello. Um, your country is spectacular.” You managed to stutter out to the women in front of you. All they did was nod their heads with the smae warm smiles they greeted you with.

“Come, I have people I want you to meet.” Shuri leaned down to whisper in your ear as she still kept her arm around your waist as she guided you towards the entrance of the palace.

“And so I see my little sister all happy outside the lab. Bast, if only we knew it would take a beautiful soul next to her to drag her out.” A voice boomed out, heavy footsteps making their way towards the both of you before stopping in front of Shuri. Lifting your head up, you were met with the sight of T’Challa, smiling ever so brightly at the arrival of his younger sister and her guest. The siblings did their handshake, ending with the ‘Wakanda Forever’ gesture.

He then turned to you and you could swear that your soul had left your body for a quick second. You mustered your best smile and held your hand out to which he ignored it and rather open his arms for a hug. Taken aback, you hesitantly walked into the hug, immediately feeling comfortable the moment he reciprocated the hug. After letting go, you stepped back into Shuri’s space who was now behind. Ready to introduce yourself, Shuri decided to do it for you instead whilst placing her hands on your waist. “Brother, I’d like you to meet Y/n Y/l/n. She’s my person.” She smiled, watching her brother take in the information that his sister blessed him with.

Letting the smile take over your face, you were thankful to Shuri for clarifying to her brother your current relationship status with his sister however you weren’t even sure what exactly you were with Shuri as the two of you had gone past the sugar baby/sugar daddy (mommy) stage when you two had met. You weren’t sure what these feelings for Shuri were but they felt good.

“Well, I am T’Challa. It is a great pleasure to meet the person that has stolen my sister’s attention. And this,” he gestured behind him a stunning woman, who walked over to greet Shuri with a hug. “Sisi omncinci” the woman had said as she let go of Shuri and made her way to you. “This is my person, Nakia.” He finished, looking ever so fondly at the woman. “Hello, my name is Nakia and might I say, you are absolutely stunning.” She expressed as she held your hands in hers. The smile never leaving your face, you introduced yourself to her as she studied your face.

“Not to interrupt this adorable moment-” “That’s exactly what you’re doing, brother.” Shuri rolled her eyes with a smile when her brother sent her a look. “Anyway, Y/n. If you don’t mind me asking, is that the Rolex Oyster Perpetual? With diamonds?” T’Challa asked as he studied your hand, admiring your watch.

Looking down at your wrist at the pink watch that Shuri had given you as a gift when you complained about your studies to her, you nodded. “Oh yes it is! Shuri had them put on.” You smiled at him, seeing his face that held impression. “And might I ask if that is the Tiffany Dial addition?” You questioned, excitedly looking at his wrist as you finally were talking to someone about your love of watches.

Both Nakia and Shuri stood back as they watched their people fangirl over each other’s watches, discussing other watches. “I think your brother has made a best friend.” Nakia commented with a chuckle.

-

Walking into Shuri’s large bedroom within the palace, you slowly walked towards the bed, plopping down with exhaustion as she walked in behind you and locking the door. You were too exhausted to even marvel at the intricate details of her grand bedroom, just wanting to get in the bed with her and rest after today’s activities. After lunch with T’Challa and Nakia, Shuri had taken you to the infamous lab, excitedly showing off the place then going into the lively streets of the Golden City which had a street festival in honour of Shuri returning after a while out of Wakanda. Dancing the night away, you both came back into the palace with heavy eyelids.

She sat next to you and placed her hand onto your thigh, rubbing it ever so slightly. With your breathing slightly harbouring from her touch, you could feel your arousal slowly peaking in. She watched as your chest heave up and down and decided to rub her hand a little higher, seeing the reaction on your face. Opening your eyes, you saw her eyes lowering as she took in your body. It had changed the more you spent time in Pilates and from a special thing she would use on you from time to time.

She leaned down to your face, placing a few pecks onto your lips with you chasing her lips after the last kiss but you knew you were too exhausted. Shuri slightly tapped your face with her fingers, waking you up as she could see that you were slipping into sleep. “Come on baby, we need to go change so that we can sleep.” Shuri trailed off, feeling exhaustion take over her body as well.

After a much needed shower, you were both in your sleeping garments, with yours being a large t shirt and cotton shorts with her being boxers and a simple white tank top. Out of nowhere, you suddenly remembered the surprise you had for her. You were certain she hadn’t seen it in the shower so you were excited to show her. “Shuri?” You whispered out to her. She hummed in response as she was getting the bed ready for you two.

“S-so, I did something and I hope you like it as much as I do.” You softly smiled as you lifted up the large shirt to just under your neck, showing her your back. Her eyes went wide and she practically ran to your side to look closer, your giggles filling the room.

You had gotten your first ever tattoo two weeks ago and it looked healed even though you knew it was far from it as it was such a big tattoo. It stretched from just underneath your neck to the end of your lower back and of course it was painful but it’s something you’ve wanted for a while. You see, Shuri hasn’t seen it because the both of you had been busy, you battling your final exams before graduation and her with her Panther duties.

Shuri gawked over it for a while and asked multiple questions as if she hadn’t had her few scattered across her body. “It’s so beautiful, my love.” She commented. Shuri had also wanted to talk about something else and you could see that it had been troubling her the whole day. “Shuri. What’s wrong? Have you been worried the whole day?” You wondered, putting your shirt down and led her to the bed to sit next to her but she put you on her lap once again.

“The introduction I gave to my brother about you. I’ve been thinking about it.” She expressed and you could see the emotion swarming through her eyes. “Oh.” You said. Now that you thought about it, you’ve thought of what title you wanted to give Shuri but could never figure out how to tell her.

“U-um,” you started. “I’d like to say my feelings now because I’ve also been thinking about it as well.” You said and she nodded, wanting you to continue. “Obviously you know that I’ve never been experienced in anything romantic my whole life so you know that I’m new to these sort of conversations. But u-um,” you took a deep breath before continuing. “I like you beyond the agreement and I can’t figure out these emotions that you give to me. It’s a warmth I feel everytime I’m around you and it makes me feel..happy. You’ve treated me so amazing that I think, no, I know I’ve fallen for you.” You finished, absolutely terrified for her next words but glad that you were able to express them to her.

Her hand lifted up to stroke your cheek as she searched your eyes. “My pretty y/n.” She said, making you giggle at the nickname. “I want to wake up next to you and watch as the Wakandan sunrise reflects in your eyes every day. You..you make me extremely happy so would you please do me the honour of being my girl?” She said, holding you so close to her as if you were the most precious cargo to her, to which you were to her.

You nodded, feeling the warmth spread through your body once again. You threw your arms around her neck as she held you for what felt like forever. You slowly let go and held her shoulders for support. “My girlfriend.” She whispered as you leaned in to kiss her once again, only letting go to take breaths before diving into each other’s spaces.

The Wakandan stars shone on the both of you throughout the night as Shuri had wanted to show you that you were her girl and that she was your girl.

-

-

“Miss Y/n Y/l/n, Bachelor of Science with an achievement of a Cum Laude on The Dean’s List.” Professor Danbury called out your name from the podium. You walked onto the stage, carefully walking in your heels while doing your little celebratory dance whilst walking past other professors along with the Dean, giving you the biggest smile and a hug as she handed you the certificate and other documents. The cheers from the crowd had brought a smile onto your face, the loudest coming from Justine, Leilani, T’Challa, M’baku and Shuri. The Dora had called out their celebratory chant for the duration of you on the University stage.

“Once again, congratulations to the class of 2024!” The Dean had cheered, you and the rest of the students from your year had stood up and threw the graduation caps up in the year. After congratulating your college friends once again, you made your way outside where you were greeted with your new found family with Wakanda. You knew that your parents knew of your graduation but they had made no effort which never hurt your feelings so you were more than happy with your life.

Leilani had been the first one to run towards you, giving you a bone crushing hug while crying. “Oh my god! My baby graduated!” She exclaimed. The rest of the crew came to congratulate you, definitely putting attention on all of you as the royal family of Wakanda was there. Shuri had been the last of everyone to come up to you. Cupping your cheeks, she planted a kiss before hugging you and spinning you around.

“Congratulations, my love. I’m so proud of you.” She smiled, kissing you once again. You thanked her and spent time with the crew before Shuri remembered that she had a surprise for you (well more like the surprise texted her). “Oh! Entle, come with me. I have a surprise for you.” She said as she stood up from the benches the crew found on the campus gardens. Everyone followed you as you held Shuri’s hand and walked towards the large parking lot. She had stopped you before walking towards your Rolls Royce.

Looking behind you, all you heard were giggles from your friends and the crew taking out their phones to film your reactions. Along with other people that wanted to see what was happening.

“Shuri, what did you do?” You questioned, worried about the amount of eyes looking at you and your girlfriend. “So,” she started, chuckling ever so lightly. “Last week, you were eagerly talking about something and I knew it would make you happy.” She smirked at the confusion displayed on your face.

Before you could respond, you saw a light blue Ferrari SF90 drive in with a large red bow on top of the hood of the car. You squeezed Shuri’s hand as your dream car drove towards you. Looking at her, the smirk never left her face. “Oh my god! Shuri! You didn’t-” You couldn’t even finish your sentence as the car parked and your celebrity crush and favourite formula 1 driver came out of the driver’s side with a large smile on his face.

“Is that fucking Lewis Hamilton?!”

-

[liyawritesss]

ʏᴏᴜ ᴀʀᴇ ᴍʏ ᴘᴇᴀᴄᴇ ᴏꜰ ᴍɪɴᴅ

Characters: MCU!Shuri Udaku x Black!Fem!Reader

Type: Fic

Word Count: 1.2k

Synopsis: In your embrace, Shuri reflects on how far she’s come, and how your love has helped her through it all.

Warnings: mentions of t’challa and ramonda’s death, slight angst, overall bittersweet fluff, vulnerable!shuri

A/N: this was written as me taking a break from writing the series for a bit due to some blockage. I think it’s pretty cute…we need some vulnerable!shuri in our lives. Suggested Songs: "I Gotta Find Peace of Mind" by Lauryn Hill, "Not Today" by Alessia Cara

Tags: @inmyheadimobsessed @badass-dora-milaje @babyboiboyega @verachii @heartsforjojo @letitias-fav @kingstormpostsshit @shurismainbxtch @zayswriting @rxcently @nzia-writes @writingintheshadowsforever @hufflehans @kokichiis7 @h34rtsformilli @typicalme13 @shuris3leg @generallysapphic @ziayamikaelson @shuriszn @percsane @justariellove @n7cje @mbakuetshurisprincess @mxyx-rx444 @hippiedippyshit @arin-swear-rose @locoforshuri @sinsikoxo @6-noir @naomis-daydream @missdforever

It’s midnight, Shuri is sure of it. She can tell by the height of which the moon hangs in the sky, how brightly it shines into her bedchambers, casting a soft white-ish blue glow into the room. It stretches as far as the the frame of her floor to ceiling windows will allow it, cutting off just as the glow covers her large bed, of which she rests in. She’s propped up against the headboard, the moon’s shine casting an ethereal glow upon her cocoa skin. She sports a simple black sleepshirt, one that belonged to her brother years ago. It used to be a dress on her, swallowing her frame, and while it’s still rather baggy on her, she’s grown into the certain pieces she’s stolen from his closet as a late teenager. They’re part of the last remaining memorabilia of her brother, T’Challa. She doesn’t cry when she wears his clothes anymore. She slips into them, allowing the faint scent of sage and teakwood to envelop her, and she remembers the good days instead.

On her right hand, a ring rests on her thumb. It was her mothers; thick and gold and as shiny as if it were made that day. It is designed to replicate the look of a braid - at least, she has always believed that to be the case - with loops and interlocking of parts of the band that follow around the circumference of it. Shuri can hear her mother’s voice now - perhaps it is her own mind conjuring up the memory of her mother lecturing her on the meaning of it, perhaps it is actually her mother speaking beyond the Ancestral Plane - and she is reminded of it’s meaning; the depiction of infiniteness in any aspect of the wearer’s discretion. In Ramonda’s case, it was made to depict the infiniteness of her love; for her family, for her people, for her country - both maiden and current. 

Love, Shuri thinks; yes, her mother’s love is indeed infinite. She feels her mother’s presence in the moon - soft, regal, and calm, just as it was when she was alive.

Her hand is placed atop yours, and she smiles softly. She is having yours made at this very moment, in the traditional way it was originally created. She thought you’d like it that way. She hopes you do.

It would only be a small token of Shuri’s affections for you, but nonetheless, one with much meaning. She remembers how she was originally apprehensive when meeting you. She was apprehensive about everything back then. Yet now, you’ve secured yourself a place in her bed, and have carved yourself a place in her heart, and Shuri could no longer imagine life without you.

It was a terrifying feeling, Shuri remembers, opening up to someone once more, much less, falling in love. Romance was never intended to be a part of her story, you see. Shuri no more believed in love than she did in the Ancestral Plane, in the traditions of old. She had been married to her occupation as a scientist for the majority of her life, and even after the devastations of war and the death of her family, she never yearned for a romantic partner. And yet, you’d changed her entire perspective on the subject matter in ways even she couldn’t comprehend.

Shuri sighs as she traces your sleeping figure, commemorating your facial features to memory as she had done numerous times before, but always found herself mesmerized time and time again.

Your love was something Shuri could never comprehend. It was an equation she’d become comfortable not being able to solve. She’d come to understand that perhaps there were things in the world that didn’t need to be explained, and if it meant she could experience the love you’d provided for her for the rest of her days, then Shuri would willfully bask in her own ignorance for as long as need be.

Your love was gentle. No matter how harsh her words or standoffish nature was, the feathery touch of your affection always reeled her back into you. 

Your love was deep. She felt it in her core with every kiss, becoming one with her bone marrow and spreading outwards to the rest of her body.

Your love was healing. Shuri had believed herself to be broken beyond repair, and yet, when you came into her life, you helped her pick up the pieces, fitting them back together. You’d cultivated the monarch into a woman who learned from her pain, using it as a guide.

Your love was peaceful. It quelled the darkness in her mind that plagued her existence. On days where it became hard to think, hard to breathe, hard to exist - your tender touch and the beat of your heart gave her peace of mind.

That’s what you are, Shuri thinks, you are my peace of mind.

A hum erupts from your lips, and a small puddle of guilt forms in Shuri’s stomach as you stir awake, believing herself to be the cause of your broken slumber. Your eyes flutter open, and the soft irises that come to meet her own absolutely melts her. It almost pushes away that guilt, and with it, the apology that is ready to spill from her lips. Feeling her gaze soften on you, a small, sleepy smile graces your lips. 

“My love, you’re not supposed to be up,” You murmur, your shoulders shifting, causing the blanket covering them to slip off ever so slightly, “come here, baby.”

Shuri doesn’t even think twice about obeying your request. She’s more than happy to oblige, sliding down the mattress to match your position, facing you. Shifting onto your back, you pull Shuri’s head to rest on your chest, and she wraps her strong arms around your body, allowing the warmth of your body to penetrate her cold skin. She shudders softly, which is soon soothed by your hand caressing her back, smoothing out the fabric of her sleepshirt. She more than welcomes it.

“Thinking too much again?” You hum. Shuri feels the vibrations of your voice through your chest. She nots into your skin, nuzzling deep into the crevice of your neck, finding comfort in your warmth and your scent. 

“Relax, beloved,” you whisper to her, your hand trailing up to the nape of her neck, gently caressing the blunt fuzz that was her undercut, your thumb stroking the space lovingly, “I have you. Let your mind rest.”

Shuri nods into your neck once more. It only takes three deep inhales of your scent for the monarch to feel her mind already slowing to a halt. You continue to whisper sweet nothings into her ear, as her body gradually relaxes into your hold. It takes a few minutes, but soon, Shuri stills, her heart rate leveling out as she falls into slumber, still holding you close. You are just as much of her anchor when she’s asleep as when she’s awake.

And as this nightly ritual comes to an end, with the two of you holding each other impossibly close, basking in your love underneath the moonlight, Shuri’s final thoughts before she gives in to the sleep that begs for her, is she has found her peace of mind; and her peace of mind will forever be you.

[megamindsecretlair]

Ooooooof, so fn hot 🔥🔥🔥🔥

Who Hurt You

Summary: T'Challa, the esteemed leader of Wakanda, ventures into the dimly lit confines of a hidden establishment, not as a king, but as a man driven by his own desires. There he finds you.

Pairing: T'Challa x Black! Exotic Dancer! Reader

Word Count:

Warnings: Smut, Animal instincts, praise kink

A/N: Originally written in 2019 (I think?) This was part of a phrase request, hence the bolded phrases.

He was back in the seedy club, dark with smoke curling around his face, but he kept focused on his task. On stage, he could see the woman performing acrobatics that even the strongest of warriors would be impressed with but King T'Challa would not be swayed from his mission. He'd left the Dora Milaje behind at the hotel, made his excuses to Shuri, and he was hoping not to run into Erik here. He had one thing—person—on his mind. 

"T," he turned at the call of the shortened version of his name. The cute girl behind the bar with the freckles and pigtails grinned at him. "You looking for your girl?" 

He smiled, tapping his fingers against the bar. "Is she available?" 

"Yeah let me get you set up in your usual room and I'll let her know you're here." Bree walked around the bar and led him down a familiar dark hall. The red lights gleamed against her patent leather short shorts and T'Challa absently admired her figure. She led him to what had become "his" room, a private space he'd frequented since first being dragged to the club by Erik six months ago. A bottle of champagne was waiting for him but he was already struggling to keep his head clear with the remnants of her scent swirling in the air.

He absently heard the door shut behind him and his pulse raced as he sat on the bench. Just the thought of almost seeing her after a month of no contact made his palms itch and a rumbling come from somewhere deep in his chest. He'd been forced away from her city for business in other parts of the world, but after spending the day in meetings he half listened to, T'Challa just wanted to feel her against him, hypnotizing and soothing him in a way that only she could. 

He'd tried to get his fix in the various cities that he'd had business in—top strip clubs in Miami and New Orleans, cabaret shows in Las Vegas, even the red light district in Germany—but no one could quite manage him like she did. He'd contemplated keeping her, flying her from city to city with him but he knew she was fiercely independent, a quality he loved about her. She wasn't looking to be saved from the strip club, didn't care that he was a king. And when he was with her, he felt stripped to his baser instincts, primal and just a man. 

He heard the door open and she stood in the doorway, curves outlined by the red lights in the hallway contrasting with the blue lights of the room. T'Challa did his best calm the rumbling in his chest but the Panther wanted out, wanted to claim what it knew belonged to them. She wore a satin robe covering her body but he could see the lace bra peeking from underneath. He licked his lips and watched her track the movements and shiver. 

"You've been away for so long I thought you forgot about me." Her musical voice rang in his ear and the Panther was clawing at the distance between them. 

He spread his legs wider to accommodate for his length pressing against his leg. "Pour me a drink."

He could see the smirk on her face filling with knowledge; there was no way he could've forgotten about her. She'd made sure. 

She walked over to the small end table, a swish in her hips, and T'Challa's mouth watered. She poured him a glass of the bubbly before crossing the room to him. He could feel the desire to snatch her into his arms the minute she was within arm's length but he held himself still. He only extended his arm to reach for the glass in her hand. He gestured with two fingers to the pole in the corner of the room. He wanted to watch her for a moment, give himself time to get under control before he unleashed the side of himself that he felt he constantly restrained. This—with her—was the only place he could be himself. 

She stepped onto the mini stage, grabbing the remote for the music and setting the atmosphere with a slow, sultry tune, a favorite of hers, and subsequently his. She pulled the belt loose on the robe and dropped it to the floor allowing him to see the lace contraption that only seemed to hinder his view of what he really wanted to see. She curled herself around the pole and he watched transfixed as she moved through a series of moves that made his blood boil. Bending at the waist, she widened her legs and shook her behind before straightening up and unfastening her bra. She twirled it for a few moments around her finger, coyly looking over her shoulder at him before throwing it to the end of the stage. She turned and he could he see her breasts, perfectly sized for him, her nipples perked and ready. Her hands went to her hair and she arched back as if offering herself up to him. T'Challa passed a hand across his mouth, he was vibrating with the effort to stay in his seat as he watched her knead her breasts. She turned her back to him again, bending at the waist and sliding her panties down her legs. She was moving through her routine quickly, as if she could sense his waning patience. She tossed her underwear in his direction. T'Challa's hand shot up to grab them out the air, drawing them in for a sniff. He closed his eyes at the scent of her arousal, the dampness serving as evidence of her own impatience. 

"Come here," he demanded. She stepped down from the stage and swaggered over to him. Holding out a hand for her, he pulled her onto his lap. "I think it's playtime" She giggled as she straddled his lap, reaching down to his waist to work on his belt. He caressed her ass, gripping her cheeks and kneading. 

When his dick was free, she took him into her hand, pumping him a few times. The grip of her hand, small in comparison to his own was heaven and he slipped out a growl in response. "Please T'Challa can I have it?" He moaned and did his best to hold back the Panther but he knew his eyes were glowing yellow. She looked him in the eye, a tight grip on his dick still adding a twist of her wrist to the top. "Prove to me that you didn't forget about me." He nodded, panting and trying not to come too quick. It had been a while and she always knew what he liked. 

She raised on her knees before beginning to sink down on him slowly. But the Panther inside wasn't having it. T'Challa grabbed her by the waist and tugged her down on him, slamming himself into her, all the way, until he was balls deep, the only way he wanted to be with her. Deep inside her, buried in her warm walls that hugged him a little too tight, T'Challa pulsed. Her eyes were wide, dark lashes framing the tears that threatened to spill from his force. When he pulled her up, separating himself from her, and then back down, she threw her head back and moaned. T'Challa savored the connection, it had been too long since he'd been able to lose himself in her. He snaked his hand up between them to press a hand against her wind pipe, careful to keep elongating nails away from her skin. Her eyes fluttered closed as she moved back on forth over him. Their lips came together, caressing each other's and T'Challa was forceful in his domination. They bodies moved in a frenzy, never slow but hungry in a way that bellied the truth of their relationship: she was his but he could not keep her. He was hers and he loved the power she had over over him, but it didn't matter when he had obligations that needed his attention. She was a distraction that he let himself have as a reward for hard work, only to get back to work and long for the next time. 

She was coming around him before he knew it but he couldn't stop. He didn't know the next time he'd be able to come see her. T'Challa thought again about flying her to whatever city he'd be in next. When he looked up at her face, she was staring down at him again, the answers to his internal questions in her eyes. She smoothed a shaky hand over his curls before tangling her fingers in them and tugging. It was just the thing he needed to get out of his own head. She bounced her ass up and down on him and he did his best to focus on her face, on her pleasure. His hand came down hard and she let out a moan she'd been holding back and began moving faster. Anyone passing by would know what was happening in that room; T'Challa was pleased. Who cared what anyone would think when you were on the brink of the best pleasure ever experienced? 

"That's right baby. Don't stop," he growled out. "You're so tight baby, I want to feel you like this all night. You're my precious baby girl." He saw her body bow to him in her orgasm, felt her wetness coat his lap, but he held on just a little longer. 

"Challa," she panted out. "I'm so full. It hurts." He kept going, feeling his balls draw up and his breathing increase. 

"I'm going to cum in you and you will take it all."

"Do it. I want to feel everything." She looked him boldly in the eye and he closed his own while his orgasm ripped through him. He clung to her tightly, claws leaving slight indents in her skin but not doing too much damage. They were both breathing hard, panting and limp in the seat. 

"I love you" he heard her whisper. He smoothed a hand over her hair and down her back. It was part of the role she played for him, so in love with him, as if she'd been sitting and waiting for him to return to her. The panther was appeased, if only for the moment. He would have her again before he retired to his hotel room, only to wake up, once again, as the King of Wakanda.

[kamaluhkhan]

maybe it's my fault

pairing: shuri x fem!reader

summary: lately, you've been feeling a ton of pressure, you're way too busy, and you're barely sleeping. life is taking its toll on you, but you drop everything to be with shuri when she needs you most.

warnings: angst! mention of illness and death (t'challa's, mostly). reader has a bit of a saviour complex. lots of plot w/ a little smut ;)

author's note: hi hi it's been too long since i've written a fic, but i just rewatched black panther so i decided to finish one of my drafts. this could be read as a part 3 to my other shuri fics, but it's wayyy more angsty than i usually write. also happy endings.....we don't know her! you've been warned.

you were in the kitchen, chopping up fruit for a smoothie, while sam and bucky were watching the news in the living room. you could only hear muffled sounds from the tv thanks to the lecture you were rewatching through your earphones, hyperfocused on absorbing as much information about genetic coding — the topic of your last exam before spring break — so it was easy to miss sam calling your name until he was practically shouting. you finally removed one earbud.

"yeah?"

“when's the last time you heard from your girlfriend?" 

"i don't know," you answered, still mostly focused on your professor droning on about complex protein structures while you kept cutting up strawberries — and tried to keep your eyes open. you probably hadn't slept in 36 hours. "we've both been busy. why?"

there was no immediate answer, which you didn’t think much of until you looked up and saw what they were watching. in shock, you accidently let the knife slip, and it nicked your thumb instead of the fruit.

"fuck."

blood dripped from your hand, but your eyes stayed glued to the screen.

KING T’CHALLA, RULER OF WAKANDA, DEAD FROM UNKNOWN ILLNESS. COUNTRY IN PERIOD OF MOURNING. 

you could tell from the way bucky and sam were silent that they were also overwhelmed with the news. t’challa was an avenger, a teammate — but he was also a friend. he was compassionate and wise and always made you feel welcomed, even when some of the elders disapproved of shuri dating an outsider. this hurt you, deeply, especially after losing so much of the team in the battle with thanos. but none of that mattered — all you could think about now was shuri….

you instantly pulled out your phone, and tried to call her. 

it’s shuri. i’m probably designing better technology, so i’ll call you back with that. 

you then tried the kimoyo beads on your wrist, but still no answer. 

“i have to go.”

sam nodded. “just let me look after your hand first —”

“i’ll deal with it on the quinjet.” you ran to your room down the hall, and grabbed your overnight bag (thank Gods you hadn’t unpacked yet, even though you’d decided to stay over at Avengers tower this week). “i just finished fixing up the old one, so i’ll take that and you guys can still use the new one for your mission tomorrow. if i leave now, i’ll get to wakanda by morning.” or maybe midnight. or afternoon? there was also a time difference that you couldn’t quite remember. “i’ll call peter on the way, let him know what happened. can you tell the others?” whoever is left, you thought to yourself.

again, sam nodded. bucky mumbled a simple take care as you start to leave for the quinjet.

sam called your name, so you turned around before a few tears could escape. he brought you into a hug. you couldn’t help but stiffen, a reflex because of so many i’m sorry for your loss hugs you’d gotten used to. when sam pulled away, he put his hand on her shoulder, eyes sincere but sad. “it’s gonna be alright, kid.”

you really wanted to believe him.

shuri’s lab was all too familiar to you. there was something perpetually alive about the space: always people talking, inventions being brought to life, loud music blasting. 

but, right now, it was silent. only shuri was there, designing something on the holograms and taking notes. 

you hear her A.I. griot announce that someone had arrived, but shuri doesn't seem to care.

“i told you i did not want to be disturbed,” shuri grumbled.

“he made an exception,” you replied, trying to keep your tone playful.

shuri didn’t say anything and kept working. “did my mother call you?” she finally asked. “i told her not to.”

you moved closer to shuri’s workspace until you were right next to her, leaning backwards against the desk but keeping your eyes on shuri and trying to pull her attention away from whatever she was working on — a suit, you guessed.

“she didn't call me. i came as soon as i heard,” you answered, crossing you arms. “but i did talk to her and she seemed…worried.”

“there’s no need to be,” shuri said. “i’m fine. we had the funeral — it happened, it’s over.”

you uncrossed your arms, sighing deeply. “you know, your brother once told me that in wakandan culture, death isn’t the end. it’s a stepping off point. then, he told me that he believed, even if they’re gone from the physical world, the people we love never leave us. their lives aren’t over if we honor them, keep loving them.”

t'challa's thoughtfulness helped you after losing tony and steve, and it was something you wished you had heard earlier in life. something that gave you hope, made you feel a bit lighter when it felt like the weight of the world was crushing you.

but, hearing this prompted shuri to freeze momentarily, though she couldn’t bring herself to look you in the eye.

"i am not my brother.” she went back to working after that.

for a moment, you simply watched your girlfriend work. shuri’s hair was different — braids gone and shorter than the last time you had seen her. her jawline was also sharper and her eyes a bit more sunken, like she hadn’t slept or eaten in days.

when it became clear that shuri wasn’t going to stop, you turned around and focused your attention to the holograms she was juggling. it wasn’t a panther suit, but what looked like a deconstructed dora milaje armor that shuri was redesigning.

“you want this to fly?” you noted the thrusters placed on the feet of the suit.

shuri glanced at you briefly before enlarging the section in question. “yes.”

you hummed, reaching over to zoom out to a full view of the suit. “if you add small repulsors, the wearer will have more control over how and where they fly.”

 “i was going to add something like that to the back.”

“i’d suggest the shoulders,” you said, tilting your head. “small, triangle shaped — kind of like angel wings. also, if you add reinforced plating to the shoulders and arms, you can redistribute the extra vibranium through the repulsor energy so the wearer can materialize a blade or a laser.”

“brilliant,” shuri mumbled under her breath.

you nudged shuri with your shoulder. “you would have figured it out eventually.”

“i know.” shuri leaned into you, a sign that she was softening. “that’s why it’s brilliant. i wish it'd thought of it sooner." she whispered the last part. there was a faraway sadness to her tone that made your heart ache.

you turned to face shuri, and gently put your hand on her cheek so she met your gaze.

"i think it's a sign that your beautiful brain needs some rest, baby." you knew what shuri was like, and based on your conversation with queen ramonda, shuri had locked herself in the lab for days.

shuri sighed, moving to kiss your palm before realizing the state it was in — freshly wrapped in a thin layer of gauze that you had bled through.

“what happened to your hand?” she questioned urgently.

“oh. nothing serious. just a slip of the knife.”

wordlessly, shuri brought you over to the medical bay and gestured for you to sit down on the table. you did, and shuri settled between your legs, using vibranium to heal your cut.

"shuri," you called after a few moments of silence, leaning your head down slightly to try and catch her eye. "you know i'm here for you, right?"

"i know." she finished cleaning the wound and wrapped your hand in a fresh vibranium-woven bandage. you wanted so badly to do the same — to wrap up shuri's grief, to protect her from pain, to help her heal.

"i mean that you don't have to, i don't know, act like everything is fine. we can talk about what happened — we can talk about t'challa."

"i know," she repeated, eyes finally meeting yours as she rested her hand on your knee. "i just....i can't. it's either i shut myself in the lab for hours or i think about my brother and want to burn the world down. and i can't...." shuri choked back a sob and her grip on your knee tightened.

you brought your hand up to her cheek, gently tracing the dark circles under her eyes with your thumb.

"well, what if we try another option?"

you spent the next few days in wakanda with shuri, ignoring your responsibilities in new york. most of the time was spent lazing around the royal palace, but with you shuri at least got enough sleep and food, even if you barely left her room at first. eventually, the two of you actually ate in the formal dining room. you could have sworn queen ramonda teared up when her daughter showed up again to share a meal since t'challa's passing. queen ramonda gave you a warm smile before the feast was served.

as you were walking back to shuri's room, stomachs full from a delicious dinner, your phone vibrated. you checked to see who it was: peter, texting to remind you of a lab assignment you had slipped your mind.

"oh shit," you groaned.

"what is it?"

"an assignment for my genetics class that i completely forgot about," you explained, rushing to open your laptop, which you'd left on shuri's nightstand after the two of you binged a few episodes of star trek (the original series). "one of our lab partners fucked up the results, so pete and i had to sort things out, but we've both been so busy...."

your phone vibrated once more, this time displaying an incoming call from jimmy neutron, your affectionate contact name for peter parker.

"i should take this."

shuri nodded. "let me help, yeah?"

considering how brilliant shuri was, you offered her your laptop without question. you paced back and forth, talking with peter over whether or not failing this assignment would mean you both failed the class, until shuri's voice cut through your conversation.

"why do you have a file with my brother's dna?"

you know exactly the file she was talking about, and it made you stop in your tracks to face shuri. you thought you were being too careful when you didn't attach his name to the file — but, apparently, you weren't careful enough.

shuri was sitting upright on the bed now, practically glaring at you as she waited for your answer. you tried to ignore your increasing heart-rate.

"pete, i have to go." you could hear him start to protest on the other end of the line, but you quickly ended the call. "well, we keep blood samples from every team member in case something happens."

hopefully your answer satisfied shuri.

it didn't.

"this isn't with your avengers files, though," shuri pointed out. you tried to grab the laptop back from her, but she moved it out of your reach. "and even if it was, you would have noticed something wrong."

"shuri," you warned, finding it harder to not let your voice waver.

"did you know my brother was sick?" her tone was harsher than before.

"shuri —"

"the samples show abnormal cell growth at an earlier stage than when i was working on a cure for him," shuri noted, turning the laptop screen towards you. like you, she must have spent hours looking at t'challa's dna to the point of memorizing its sequence. "so either you didn't notice that something was wrong, and we both know you're too smart enough to miss something that obvious, or — "

"shuri." this time, when you said her name, it was less of a warning and more of a plea. you did not want to go down this road. frankly, you were hoping you never had to.

"you knew my brother was sick and didn't tell me," she finished. shuri handed you the laptop and you closed it slowly, watching as she walked to the other side of the room before facing you again. "tell me that isn't true."

all you could do was bite back tears and hope the floor swallowed you whole. when it didn't, you took a deep breath and stood up.

"i can explain." you approached her, but she took a step away from you and scoffed.

"what's there to explain?"

"just....please." you walked back to the bed and took a seat. "let me explain."

t'challa intercepted you at your favourite coffee shop about four weeks ago.

it was march in new york, so hints of spring were starting to peak through the winter snow. you had back to back classes, but you always had time for a coffee in between.

the cold air hit you as you exited the shop, a drink warming your hand. you noticed him standing there: no dora milaje, no fancy suit, just t'challa. he wore sunglasses and a sleek black trench coat with a purple scarf, his silver necklace peaking out from the collar.

"t'challa?" you called, almost doing a double take. the two of you were friends, sure, and probably future in-laws, but the image of him waiting for you outside a student-run cafe felt too out of the ordinary. "is everything okay?"

he smiled softly, taking off his sunglasses. "of course," he said. then, t'challa did something that surprised you even more: he greeted you with a hug. as he pulled away, he added: "just in town and thought we could catch up. shuri said this was your favourite place for cinnamon lattes."

you shrugged. "my girl knows me well. could we catch up later, though? i have a class in...." you glanced at your phone. "right now, actually." you looked back up at t'challa, and something about how his smile faded away made you feel like this was more important. "you know what, i can get notes later. come on."

t'challa followed you to a bench nearby, scanning the area as you made the short walk. the two of you sat in silence for a few moments before you broke it.

"so, is everything okay?" you asked again, taking a sip of your drink.

"actually, no." he paused, voice low. you waited for him to continue, your heart beating fast as you tried not to expect the worst. "i'm sick, y/n."

"you're sick," you repeated slowly, letting the words sink in. "i'm....i'm sorry." you reached over and squeezed t'challa's hand. he gave you a sad smile in return. that was the thing about t'challa: he was always trying to put on a brave face.

"i need you to help me find a cure."

"of course," you answered instantly. you loved t'challa like he was family; you would do anything for him. but, something felt a bit strange about his request. "why not go to wakanda, though? i mean, i'd be happy to help, but the technology there is way more advanced than anything i could do in new york. shuri's lab has all the resources we would need."

t'challa shifted in his seat, breaking eye contact.

then, it hit you. the impromptu meeting, the uneasiness of t'challa's demeanor, the whispers as he explained the situation.

"she doesn't know, does she?"

t'challa shook his head. "she doesn't even know i'm in new york."

suddenly, you throat tightened and it felt difficult to swallow your coffee.

"am i the only one that knows?"

"you and nakia," he said. "i'd like for it to stay that way."

"but — but it's shuri. you're her brother and — and she can help us find a cure."

"so can you," t'challa countered. compared to your nervous stuttering, he kept his voice clear, measured. "you're studying biochemistry and cellular biology, correct? top of your class? my sister says you are almost as brilliant as her."

"almost," you laughed, allowing yourself a moment of reprieve before returning to your conversation. "t'challa, why not just tell her?"

t'challa reflected before responding, his eyes following a couple holding hand as they walked past you.

"my sister is happy," he finally said, turning to you. "i wish for her to stay like that for as long as possible. i believe this is the only way."

it broke your heart to know that, even as he was suffering, t'challa would do anything to protect shuri. you both knew what shuri was like: she would drop everything, go back to wakanda, spend many sleepless nights trying to solve this problem, to save her brother.

"are you sure?" you practically whispered the question.

"yes. i trust you can take care of this. in fact, i know you can. please, y/n."

his urgent tone, the sincerity in his eyes; t'challa was desperate, you could tell. this wasn't a decision he made lightly, to keep such information from everyone, including shuri. if you were the one he came to for help, help you would.

so, you promised keep his secret, to handle it yourself and carry on as normal. t'challa would return to his normal duties as king for as long as he could hide his illness. but, you set a term as well: if you couldn't find a cure within two weeks, when shuri went back to visit wakanda at the end of the month, t'challa would tell her and let her work to find a cure.

"one more thing," t'challa said after you had discussed your agreement. you were about to part ways, but you turned around when you heard him speak again. "shuri can never know that i came to you first. she's proud, my sister. if she finds out, she'd never forgive either of us."

you nodded firmly, but as t'challa turned to walk away, you called his name once more. you ran towards him and hugged him, tight. it startled him at first, just as you were when he greeted you, but he hugged back.

if you knew that was the last time you'd see him, you'd have held on longer.

over the next week or so, you worked relentlessly. you would've worked at the lab in avengers tower, but you knew you had more privacy at oscorp. occasionally, you went to class or had avengers business to take care of, but otherwise this was your life: rearranging dna sequences, examining blood samples, and mixing chemicals to try and find a cure for t'challa.

you came home one night, after hours in the lab. your only break was a brief stint stopping doc ock from robbing a bank. she'd managed to throw you around pretty hard — sleep deprivation made you an easier target, apparently — leaving you with a nasty bruise on your side. peter arrived to the scene just in time, and suggested the two of you celebrate with sandwiches as delmar's (where spider-man got a discount), but you made up an excuse so that you could return to the lab.

the apartment was dark when you entered, with only the kitchen light on, so you figured you were the only one home. you dragged yourself over to the sink to get a cup of water. you drank it in three gulps, and were reaching for another when you felt someone grab your side.

"fuck!" the cup fell from your grasp as you winced in pain. you turned around, too tired to even wonder if there was an intruder in your home, but met shuri's gaze instead. she was wearing boxer shorts and an oversized i ♡ wakanda shirt she'd gotten for you as a joke.

"shit. sorry." she knelt down to pick up the broken glass. you tried to follow, but winced again at the sharp pain in your side that prevented you from bending over. "don't worry. i've got it," she reassured, standing back up. "you've been busy lately. and pete told me about the fight with doc ock. you should rest."

you ignored her last comment. "i thought you were coming home late tonight."

shuri raised an eyebrow. "i'd say it's well past late." she gestured towards the clock on the stove. it read 2:27 am.

"right." between hours in the lab, with no cure in sight, and being thrown around by a scientist with metal tentacles, you were exhausted. it was the kind of exhaustion that settled into your bones, made everything feel heavier. not to mention the weight of the very big, life changing secret you were keeping from shuri....yeah, you weren't particularly in the mood to chat with your girlfriend in a dimly lit kitchen with broken glass at your feet.

before shuri could ask more about your day, you excused yourself to take a shower. you closed the bathroom door behind you, stripped yourself of your clothes, and hopped in the shower. you stood there for a few seconds, letting the warm water wash over you, until you were startled by the shower curtain opening.

"sithandwa, are you okay?"

"other than the minor heart attack you just gave me, yeah," you huffed.

shuri tilted her head and narrowed her eyes. "are you sure?"

"i'm fine," you snapped. noticing how shuri's eyes widened slightly at your outburst, you tried again, your voice softer. "i'm fine."

you lifted your arm to close the shower curtain, but let out a strangled moan when the sharp pain in your side returned. shuri furrowed her brow at your reaction, until her eyes landed on the dark bruise forming under your left ribs. instantly, shuri joined you in the shower, fully clothed.

"you're not fine," shuri decided, placing her hand gently on your skin. "why didn't you go back to the med bay to have this taken care of?"

peter asked you the same thing when you parted ways earlier, but it was easier then to shrug off the severity of your injury. besides, you had to finish up some work at the lab. but here you were in front of shuri, completely exposed, no where to run.

"i...didn't have time. you can scold me later, okay? right now, i just want to relax."

you exhaled as shuri's fingers grazed your skin. with how preoccupied you had been — along with the guilt at hiding t'challa's illness from her — you and shuri hadn't been intimate in what felt like forever. it felt good to be close to her, for her to touch you again.

by then, shuri's clothes were soaked through, the white fabric of her shirt clinging to her skin, transparent enough to reveal her dark nipples underneath. you couldn't help but stare.

"like what you see?" shuri smirked. her fingers started trailing south, reaching your hips.

this made you roll your eyes, and you just had to smile at how cheeky your girlfriend was being.

"you know i do, pretty girl."

"hm. you said you wanted to relax?"

you nodded, and not even a second later shuri had her body pressed against yours. it sent a shiver through you, despite the warm water from the shower. she brought a tattoed hand up to your face, craddling your jaw.

"then relax," shuri whispered. she started placing kisses up your neck, and when she reached just below your ear, she added: "let me take care of you."

shuri gently pushed you against the wall, the ceramic tiles cool on your back. to your annoyance, she took her sweet time leaving kisses down your body.

"shuri," you whined when you felt her teeth graze one nipple while she pinched the other between her fingers.

"what is it, my love?" shuri pulled away from your chest. you knew she loved teasing you - something you mostly loved to hate. sex with shuri sometimes took hours: it was slow, deliberate, accompanied by an orchestra of laughter and moans and pleading (lots of pleading).

this time, though, she didn't even give you time to beg. shuri simply got on her knees in front of you. she briefly ran her tongue through your folds before tilting her head back to meet your gaze. "is this what you wanted?" shuri smirked when you moaned as she slid a finger into your cunt.

the shower went cold by the time you two were done.

you started drying off, carefully as to not further your injury. shuri left to put on fresh, dry clothes, leaving the ones she had soaked through in a wet heap on the floor. you were just slipping on your underwear when shuri returned, catching your eye in the mirror.

"what?" you chuckled at how coy she was being, hands behind her back as she rocked back and forth on her heels.

"i have a surprise for you," shuri sang. she moved from the doorway to standing behind you, the two of you looking at the mirror. "close your eyes." you complied and felt a coolness surround your neck. shuri placed a kiss on your jaw, which made you smile. "open them."

you were met with the sight of yourself, top half completely bare except for a deep purple pendant around your neck.

"do you like it?" shuri gently wrapped her arms around your waist, eyes never leaving your body in the mirror, and you allowed yourself to melt into her. "it reminded me of the sky on our first date, and how beautiful you looked." she reached a hand up to trace the silver chain. "i was thinking i'd remake this with vibranium, maybe make it so the necklace holds your suit like t'challa's. you'll have to wait until i get back to wakanda to make the upgrade, of course."

at the mention of her brother and her home country, you stiffened.

"shuri." you exhaled and you turned to face her. "are you sure that you don't want to go back to wakanda sooner?"

shuri tilted her head. "why would i do that?"

"i don't know. more time with your family...."

"i've spent my whole life with them," shuri countered. "i'm moving to new york so that we can start our life together."

"i didn't ask you to do that — "

"don't push me away, okay?" she interrupted, wrapping her arms around your waist once more as though they would keep you in place forever. "you've been doing that lately, and i know you're busy, we both are. but, life is crazy and scary and unpredictable, and all i know for sure is that i love you. and i need you."

you wished you could return her words, as you have many times before, but the sentiment now felt empty.

it felt wrong for you to let shuri love you passionately, when you were being so careless with her heart.

you tried to shake away that feeling, telling yourself that keeping t'challa's secret was the best situation to keep him healthy and shuri happy - to protect both of them from any pain or suffering.

you told yourself that enough times, you almost believed it was true.

shuri looked at you now, and for the first time, you felt the heat of her anger targeted towards you.

"how long? how long did you know my brother was dying and let me believe everything was okay? how long did you lie to me?"

you took a ragged breath. "two weeks."

"two weeks?" shuri shouted. "i couldn't save him because i didn't have enough time to find a cure. you took that from me."

"i spent that time trying to find a cure, but....but i wanted to protect you, at least for a little while."

"no one asked you to protect me!"

internally, you kept replaying what t'challa had said: he wanted shuri to be happy, yes, but she could never know that he came to you himself and told you he was sick weeks before he told her. you wanted to honor the promise you made him, even as you now felt shuri slipping through your fingers.

you were never a quitter, though. it was your best — and possibly most self-destructive — trait. you tried to approach shuri, to grab her hand, but the second you made contact, she jolted away.

"my brother is dead because of you."

her words felt like a knife. you felt dizzy — there was no way to stop the bleeding, so you sat back down on the bed to ground yourself.

"i....i tried to save him," you defended. "after i first found out, i tried to find a cure myself."

shuri scoffed, shaking her head and narrowing her eyes at you. "you just had to be the hero, didn't you? running around, wanting to save everyone. like you're the only one who can."

"i really tried," you choked. by now, you were holding back tears, feeling your head start to ache. you started massaging you temple to relieve some pressure, but it didn't work.

"and what kind of sick game are you playing, coming here pretending to be supportive? you're just feeling guilty."

guilty was definitely something you felt, but it wasn't why you came here.

you got back up and tried to approach shuri one more time, walking over to her slowly.

"i came here because i love you, shuri." your voice was softer than it had been before. "i loved t'challa, too -"

"don't you dare say his name," she growled, once again moving away from you briskly. "and i don't care if you love me, because i can never look at you the same way. we're done."

hands by your side, staring at shuri from the opposite side of the room, you almost couldn't process what she had said. she repeated her last sentence, this time a bit louder, and you shook your head as though to wake yourself up.

"shuri, please, don't do this. we're both in pain — "

"you have no idea the pain i'm in," shuri interrupted, and you noticed how she choked back a sob. "you can stop trying to be a hero for me. i don't want you. i don't need you." she paused. "not anymore."

to prove her point, shuri finally approached you. she tugged your necklace — the one she had so lovingly given you — hard enough for the clasp to break.

both of you were startled by the severity of her actions, how final it all felt. shuri looked, almost regretfully, at the purple pendant in her hand, but never met your gaze. she then turned away from you, the room settling into an uncomfortable silence as she waited for you to leave.

and you did, a few moments later.

[ventingfanfics]

an angsty to fluff fic where shuri is a known player in the royal family but the reader is a sweetheart and then shuri falls for her and tried to win her over but reader cannot believe it or is flabbergasted?? happy ending tho pls <3

First of all, many of you are so cute with your little requests. So many of you are creative! Okay, this one is LONG. I hope you enjoy it. Feel free to leave comments. It probably will have a second part.

Don't Wanna be a Player No More

The meeting at the palace finished, but M’Baku stuck around, joining Shuri for lunch. Together they walked into the cafe. 

In time, they had grown closer with the Jabari leader taking on the role of a big brother. He would never replace T’Challa nor was he trying to. He simply cared about Shuri and felt she’d been dealt extremely cruel hands. He wanted to be of support to her. Plus, they found that they enjoyed the other’s company. 

“Bast, I’m starving,” Shuri said, approaching the food court.

“I could eat multiple feasts right now,” M’Baku agreed.

“That’s you on the daily.”

“And what about it? A king has to eat. Do you see my stature? I can’t afford to play small.” Just as he said that, his eyes landed on one of the servers. He offered his best smile. “See, Hadiza here knows just what I’m talking about.”

“Why must you bring Hadiza into it? She’s here to feed your belly not your ego.” Shuri cracked a smile at the pretty worker who softly laughed. 

“I come in peace,” Hadiza said, piling food onto their plates and earning laughter from them. 

“Ah, here’s Riri. Someone with respect,” M’Baku called, seeing the science genius enter the premises. She was not alone. Another woman accompanied her.    You. 

Shuri, who sat her plate down at a table, followed M’Baku’s gaze. 

“Goodness, could you stare any harder?” He said rather than asked Shuri, who nodded in greeting at Riri. 

“For your information, she looks familiar.” As Shuri watched you taking your turn to get your food, she tried to place you, but to no avail. 

“She also looks like your next victim,” M’Baku said, amused by his own joke. 

Shuri threw a crumb at him. “Hush up. I’m a single woman.”

You walked with Riri over to them, feeling a little nervous about meeting Wakanda’s new Queen. You knew this day would come considering your opportunity.

“Hey y’all.” Riri smiled. “Shuri, I’m sure you know Y/N. M’Baku, this is Y/N.”

You wanted to shake Shuri’s hand but it seemed like bad timing with it being lunch and all.

“How are you?” M’Baku cordially greeted you, slyly taking you in. 

“He’s the leader of the Jabari tribe,” Riri explained to you. 

You laughed a bit and nodded because you were well aware. “And this must be Queen Shuri,” You said, successfully making the others laugh. “It’s a pleasure to meet you both.” You bowed.

Riri’s smile faded as she sat down. She had told you it was unnecessary to do that yet it did in fact feel necessary. First impressions were everything and you were raised to respect people and if bowing was a royal custom, so be it.

There was a mysterious small groan that could be heard. 

“You don’t have to do that,” Shuri said, to which M’Baku agreed.

“Told you,” Riri muttered before eating her baked potatoes.

“I’m sorry,” You said, feeling your skin heat up.

Shuri waved it off with a smile. “All good. Just promise me that’ll be the first and last time you do that. Deal?”

“Deal.”

You were relieved that things were going well so far on your first day at the palace. 

“So Y/N, do you work with Riri?” M’Baku asked, making conversation.

“I do, only for two hours, though. I’m mainly here to do outreach work.” You ignored the fact that Shuri was staring at you. Of course she’d be interested in this conversation. It was her business.

“Ah, that’s how I know you,” the Queen said, holding her fork. “Nakia referred you.”

You smiled. “Yes.”

“That’s impressive ‘cause Nakia wouldn’t just send over anyone.”

“Duh,” Riri said, making M’Baku laugh. She grinned at the look Shuri gave her. “Nah, but I just have a good feeling about Y/N being here. She’s dope.”

“Aww, thank you! The feeling is mutual. It’s an honor to be surrounded by greatness,” You said, looking at the three of them. 

“You belong here,” Shuri said to you.

You repeated the statement to yourself, knowing you’d never forget it.

~

You were focused on your data work. It consisted of the different organizations you’d been in contact with. In just your first week, you’d connected with hundreds of individuals. The doors opened, but you remained focused. 

“Hey,” You heard Shuri say, causing you to acknowledge her. “Where’s Riri?”

“I think she’s at the cafe with Kenya,” You answered, referring to the genius scientist’s girlfriend. 

Shuri nodded. “Are you coming with us tonight?”

Some of the team was having an outing this evening. Of course you’d been invited and didn’t mind the idea of attending. You liked your colleagues thus far and wanted to make another good impression by showing up.

“Yep, even though I don’t drink…” 

“Neither do I. And I still know how to have fun.” She shrugged a shoulder and came closer, observing your screen. “I really hope you have fun tonight, you deserve it.”

You smiled. “I’m sure I will. You all seem like a good time.”

“What about you?”

“What about me?”

“Are you a good time?” 

You chuckled at her sheer curiosity, tilting your head to the side thoughtfully. “I mean, I wouldn’t say I’m the life of the party, but I vibe off good energy.” 

Shuri smiled, her beauty on constant display. “I know just what you mean.” She rested her hand on your desk. “I promise I have good energy.” She was staring at you while you were entranced by her tattoo.

“Cool tat.”

She laughed softly. “Thank you! Do you have any tattoos?”

Before you could answer, you both heard Riri come in, declaring, “Alright, we out!”

“Hold on,” Shuri called, turning back to you. “Y/N, are you good to go straight there? Or did you need to stop home first?”

“I think I’m good, I have everything I need.”

“But a ride,” Riri said. “C’mon, Kenya’s waiting.”

“Can she at least use the bathroom first?” Shuri said back, pulling a face at you, as if to say “can you believe this girl?”

“You didn't go already? Never mind, it’s cool. I’ll wait.”

“Or you can ride with me,” Shuri mentioned to you.

Riri smirked at the Queen. 

You lifted your hands in surrender. “Okay, okay, I do need to go to the bathroom, but I won’t be long. Riri, I don’t want to keep you and Kenya waiting, though.”

“Nah, it’s fine. Let me go with you.” She waited for you to grab your stuff. 

Unbeknownst to you, Shuri admired the view of you as you walked towards Riri. 

“Thanks for offering though, I appreciate it,” You called over your shoulder, smiling at Shuri, who quickly brought her eyes back to your face and matched your expression.

Shuri did her nightly check-in of the lab before leaving. When she went to the bathroom, you were exiting it. You held the door open for her with your usual kind smile. 

“Thank you, usana,” the royal said. “That’s a nice dress, by the way.”

~

After debating, Okoye got involved in this heated exchange that consisted of a female letting Shuri have it. “Excuse me, what seems to be the trouble here?” 

The girl’s eyes widened before she glowered and pointed at Shuri. “So you do have a girlfriend!”

Okoye rolled her eyes to the high heavens. 

“Yes, this is my girlfriend,” Shuri deadpanned, and shooting Okoye a look that said “just go with it.” 

Okoye had other plans. “I am the general, thank you very much.” 

“You’re fucking your general?” 

“For Bast’s sake,” Okoye said as Shuri stifled a laugh.

“Walk away,” Shuri said, steering Okoye away from the infuriated young woman. Okoye of course stayed behind to make sure the stranger left. 

Shuri finally released her laugh as Okoye wore the ultimate look of disgust. 

“You have got to be more selective, your highness.”

“Hey, what’d I say about formality after hours?”

Okoye shook her head. “I thought I was going to have to hurt her, but she’s just an idiot. Why can’t you get involved with one girl? Preferably a decent one with a working brain.” 

Shuri smirked as she eyed you across the room. “Funny you say that because I know someone.”

Okoye followed her vision. “Is that the new girl Y/N?”

“Yes, ma’am.”

“Maybe I should retract my statement. She seems too good for you.”

“I’m sorry, how did you say you know her again?” Shuri narrowed her eyes at her. 

Okoye smirked. “You know I’m right.”

Shuri tuned Okoye out as you and her made eye contact. You both smiled. Shuri made her way towards you as you finished your plastic cup of soda. 

“The vibes must be off,” said Shuri, speaking down into your ear so you could hear her. She could have sworn she saw you shiver. “Are you cold?” She pulled away and unzipped her royal green Adidas Ivy Park tracksuit. 

“Oh, no, no, you don’t have to do that,” You replied, though the royal was now clad in just a tank top that showed off her fit form. You forced your eyes on her face.

“You sure? It’s not a problem, Y/N.”

“I don’t want you to be cold.”

She chuckled inwardly. “You’re so cute. Tell you what, if I do get cold, you can help warm me up.” She studied your reaction, only getting a little laugh. You were very oblivious.

“Is that your way of saying you want to dance?” You asked her.

“Actually, yeah. I’d like that.” She took your hand, leading you to the dance floor. 

It just so happened they were playing one of your new favorite songs. When that song came on, you didn’t care who was around. 

Shuri and others gassed you up as you moved. But when it was all over, you suddenly turned shy. You looked around and saw two chicks staring you down—but bitterly. 

“Well, damn, what did I do?” You thought aloud.

“Hmm?” Shuri looked at you, listening attentively as you cupped your hand around her ear, informing her of the two strange women. Shuri found the culprits and glared daggers at them until they averted their gazes.

“Do you know them?” You asked. “‘Cause I don’t. Never seen ‘em a day in my life.”

“Don’t pay them no mind, they’re just jealous,” Shuri said, pulling your back against her front. She felt warm, soft, and firm all at once. And she smelled divine. She must have wanted to comfort you because she was stroking your arms. 

Clearly you weren’t the only sweet one.

You leaned into her, which made her smile yet again. “Can we keep dancing? You’re so good at it,” she asked. You laughed and nodded, feeling boosted by her compliment. The next grind-inducing song came on causing you to whine your hips. Fueled by the music, you even dropped it low, backing it up against Shuri, who gripped your hips and moved with you. 

“Damn, Y/N! Okay!” You heard Riri say. “She said I’m not a wallflower no more!”

You and Shuri had a good laugh.

The royal noticed you seemed slightly out of it; she deduced it to her jacket and all the dancing and excitement. She gently removed the jacket from you and held it. “Let’s get you some water, party girl.”

She held your hand and you felt protected as you trekked to the bar. 

“I’m getting ready to head out,” Shuri said. She never liked to stay out too long. 

“Oh, okay,” You looked at her nodding. You weren’t quite ready to leave yourself but if Shuri was leaving, you didn’t care to stay either.

“I can give you a ride,” She offered, to which you accepted. 

Shortly after, you said goodbye to everyone. Kenya was the designated driver for Riri. 

“Bye girl, see you Monday!” Riri hugged you. “Bye, Shuri.” The Queen gave her a side-hug and nodded at Kenya before resting her hand on the small of your back, escorting you out of the club with Okoye and Aneka in tow.

Shuri programmed your address into her car. It smelled as good as she did. 

“I hope you don’t mind, but Okoye and Aneka are gonna follow us,” she mentioned to you before starting the car.

“No, I know. It’s cool. That’s their job.” You got comfy in the chair, leaning back.

“Oh, you’re going to sleep on me?” Shuri asked, starting the car. She jokingly sucked her teeth. “Damn, Y/N.”

“Noo, I’mma keep you company.”

She chuckled and turned on her music at a comfortable volume. “Nah, it’s okay. I’ll wake you up when we’re there.” Although you were close to dozing off, you fought to stay up with Shuri. You felt bad about sleeping when she was giving you a ride. 

She was a little worried that you might fall out, so she walked you to your door. 

“Thank you, Shuri. I had fun tonight,” You spoke as you used your keys.

Your words lit her up. “My pleasure, and you most definitely are a good time.”

You could only yawn in response.

Shuri chuckled. “Have a good sleep, okay?”

You gave her a hug and she gladly accepted, squeezing you. “You too. Get home safe.”

“I will, babe.”

Whenever she called you a pet name, it made you feel gooey inside, but you always pushed it out of your head believing it meant little if anything at all. 

All you could think that besides the ones your grandmother gave, that was one of the best hugs you ever had. 

Shuri waited until you were inside with the door shut before taking her leave. You were surprised when you awoke in the morning to see a text from her: Made it home safely. Enjoy your weekend! x

~

“You texting somebody?” 

Shuri’s smile faded. She was responding to your reply about her making it home safely. You had wished her a happy, restful weekend. “Yes, Imani. Why?”

“Just trying to figure out who with that Kool-aid smile. They gave you good news or something?” 

Shuri stared at her and the woman stared back, arching an eyebrow.

“How’s your food?” Shuri changed the subject. She had taken one of her lady friends out for breakfast.

“It’s good,” her companion admitted, flipping her locs over her shoulder. “I’m not done either.”

“I said you could have whatever you want,” Shuri dryly reminded her. 

“I know. Excuse me, waiter? Yes, I would like try your international omelette next.”

“Okay, and for you, miss?” He addressed Shuri.

“I’m good, thank you.” 

After breakfast, Shuri took Imani to the mall. She was losing patience because unlike herself, Imani was no fast shopper. To say she was taking her precious time was an understatement. Shuri knew it was intentional. Imani felt like she was entitled to get under her skin. 

She was about to just tell Imani to call her when she was done and she’d pick her up. Until she saw you. You were looking at dresses. And just like that, Shuri’s irritation melted away. 

She snuck up behind you, covering your eyes. “You didn’t tell me you were coming to the mall.”

A puff of surprise left your throat. “Shuri?” 

“The one and only.”

You turned around, revealing your bright smile. “You didn’t tell me either, miss thang.”

Shuri motioned to the clothes. “I see you’re looking at dresses, what’s the occasion?”

Her eyes bored into you as you shared that you were buying some work attire.

“Ah, I see…you sure none of these are for a date?” 

You chuckled. “I mean, I guess they could be…” The two of you kept your smiles. “So, what brings you here?”

Shuri’s visage dulled. “I’m here with a friend.”

“Oh, that’s cool.”

“What are you doing after this?”

“Well, actually, I was planning to get a tattoo. Remember you asked me if I had any? This will be my first one.”

Shuri was so interested, firing off questions about what and where and when you planned to get the ink. And then someone shouted her name.

You, Shuri, and other patrons whipped their heads to look at Imani.

“I’m ready,” she announced.

“What did I tell you about screaming my name like that?” Shuri asked after a beat.

“You don’t mind it any other time,” Imani shot back. 

You could feel the tension. But what mainly captivated you was the fact that this chick looked awfully familiar. She looked exactly like one of those women who seemed like they wanted to shank you at the club the other night. 

“It’s rude to stare,” Imani said to you.

“That’s funny, weren’t you staring last night?” You blurted. 

Imani pursed her lips smugly but you just walked alway. You didn't want any trouble. And now it was making sense as to why she’d had a problem with you. 

“Looks like your little girlfriend is upset,” Imani commented to Shuri sarcastically.

~

M’Baku watched as you entered the cafe and took your plate before leaving. 

“The first time I see her all week and she disappears,” he said. “Do I even need to ask what happened?” 

“She probably just doesn’t like you,” Shuri said.

He was unamused. “Ha-ha-ha. Shuri, did you do something to that girl?”

“Her name is Y/N, and, no, but I know you love to think that.” She took a long sip from her water jug

“Then why doesn’t she come around anymore? Even with Riri being out sick today, you would think she would feel welcomed to sit with us.”

“She’s been eating as she works.”

The silence was deafening.

Shuri sighed and looked at M’Baku’s knowing expression. “Ever since she found out about Imani, she’s been keeping a distance,” she quietly relayed. 

His eyebrows went up and he nodded. “And why do you think that is?”

Shuri was exasperated. “I don’t know, maybe she liked me?”

“So, you didn’t lead her on?”

“No!” 

M’Baku took Shuri in, but without judgement this time. “Okay, sis.”

Shuri stabbed at her food. “It shouldn’t matter anyway. She’s my employee for Bast’s sake.”

After lunch, Shuri returned to the lab. A week ago you’d worked in pure silence, but now you had taken her invitation to listen to music. It sounded like a movie score that you were listening to. She watched you bob your head as you worked with concentration etched onto your side profile. 

You sensed someone watching you so you turned your back to find the gaze belonged to Shuri. You offered the weakest smile she’d ever seen and redirected your attention to your device. 

Shuri decided to let you be for now. About forty-five minutes later, The Griot alerted there was a visitor on the premises named Zen-daya. Shuri pulled a face in confusion as she saw her information. “I have no idea who this is—“

“It’s for me,” You clarified. 

Shuri noticeably calmed down. “Oh. Who is she?”

You chuckled. “Don’t worry, she’s safe. I told her to meet me here.”

“That doesn’t answer my question.”

“If you must know, she’s my date.”

The room fell silent and thick once more. You packed your things and used the Kimoyo beads you’d been given to confirm with Zen-daya that you were on your way outside. 

As you proceeded to leave, you looked at Shuri—really looked at her for the first time in a week. Although most probably wouldn’t have noticed it, you could tell something was bothering her. You didn’t need to know her long to know she was possibly affected by your obvious detachment. You had gone from warm and engaging to polite and short with her. Although you were doing it for the right reasons, you sympathized with her. 

“Have a good weekend, Shuri,” You said, holding your bag over your shoulder.

She turned her head to eye you. “Y/N.”

You slowed down and faced her with a questioning gaze.

She looked serious. “It won’t take long. I wanted to check-in with you.” You nodded and she continued. 

“If you want to keep things strictly professional between us, I understand. I just hope I haven’t made you uncomfortable.”

You thought of what to say. “You haven’t made me uncomfortable.”

She stood up. “Then why the sudden change? Why don’t you speak anymore?”

“I say good morn—“

“That’s all you say. You stay in here for lunch, avoiding me—even M’Baku has been asking about you. What’s going on? Is everything okay?” 

You were right. She was absolutely affected.

“Is this about Imani—the girl you saw me with at the mall that day?”

A look and feeling of revulsion washed over you at the reminder. The truth was, you’d developed a crush on Shuri following your time at the club together. And you felt foolish when you realized she was involved with someone else—someone she had pretended not to know. Furthermore, Riri had warned you to watch out for Shuri because “she had heartbreaker tendencies.” Overall, keeping things professional seemed for the best.

“No, it’s about me doing what I feel is best.” You mentally high-fived yourself for the mature response. 

Shuri’s frown deepened. She reluctantly nodded and turned away. 

All you could think about was how sad she looked and how you wanted to give her a big hug. But you didn’t dare. 

~

Riri had enough. She pulled Shuri out of the lab. Shuri looked puzzled at Riri’s shrewd countenance. “Yes?”

“Cutting the formalities, you’ve been acting like an ass this whole week, what’s up?” Riri confronted using her hands as she spoke. 

Shuri scoffed.

“No, you have been, ask everyone!” Riri then looked around and lowered her tone, “We can all feel and see how snappy you are.”

Deep down, Shuri knew that for Riri to pull her aside, it was serious. 

“Thank you,” she said, just as earnest. 

Riri softened a tad. “You welcome. Now tell me what’s wrong.”

“Just some personal stuff, it was inappropriate of me to bring it into work. I will apologize.” Without another word, Shuri returned to the lab. She clasped her hands, looking around and soon getting her staff’s attention. “Everyone, a word. This week I’m sure you all noticed a change in my behavior, and for that I sincerely apologize. I have been dealing with some personal matters, but that is not an excuse to mistreat my team. I hope you can forgive me.”

“We know you’re still grieving,” someone called. 

It was time for your shift in the lab. You saw Riri standing just outside the doors, watching what was happening inside. You greeted each other, though you could immediately tell something was off.

“Shuri just apologized to the team,” She filled you in.

“Oh, really? That’s good.”

Riri didn’t react. She looked contemplative. Almost reluctantly, she moved towards you. “Why do I get the feeling some shit went down between you?” She whispered. 

“What do you mean?”

“She hasn’t been the only one acting off. You’ve been strange, too, acting distant.”

“Distant or professional?” You defended. 

Riri  heaved a sigh. “Y/N, just answer the question.”

You checked your surroundings and whispered defensively. “For my own sanity, I had to fall back—you even told me to!” 

Riri just listened. 

“Nothing happened beyond what you saw at the club,” You added. “We didn’t kiss, sleep together, none of that…” 

Suddenly the doors parted, making room for Shuri, and silencing you and Riri. 

“Y’all need to talk,” Riri insisted, eyes darting between you and Shuri. “Let me get back to work.”

“I have to work, too,” You said, shaking your head. “Did you want to talk to me?” You looked at Shuri searchingly, who wore a stoic expression. 

She looked at you for a moment. Then, she shook her head. “No, you can go in.”

~

To make up for her moodiness, Shuri treated her team out that same night. She mingled with her staff—except for you. Though beneath her shades, she kept a watchful eye on you. There was something about you that warranted her protection. She knew how the club and how people could be. 

She was surprised to see you drinking. Though, your reaction to the liquor was comical. You spit it out just as fast as you’d sipped it. This caused you to stain your clothes. Riri was hysterical. Fortunately, as Shuri presumed, Riri accompanied you to the bathroom.

Suddenly, a manicured hand reached for Shuri’s tapered cut but was intercepted by Okoye. 

“Sorry, general, I just wanted to dance with the Queen, is that okay?” The woman responded mildly exasperated. Okoye looked at Shuri, who nodded. Okoye moved back to her position on the side but kept her eye on the woman. 

Shuri’s shielded eyes traveled up the woman’s curvaceous frame. She allowed the woman to wrap her arms around her neck. The intensity of the woman’s perfume practically burned Shuri’s nose. Shuri turned her face, wincing, and gently holding the woman’s waist. 

“I’m sorry,” Shuri told the woman before excusing herself. Okoye and Aneka following her. 

Shuri went to the ladies’ room where you and Riri still were.

“Just take it to the cleaner’s, it’ll be alright,” Riri was saying as you furiously attempted to rid the purple stain from your cream-colored number.

“Hey Shuri,” Riri said in between a chortle. “Do you see this?”

Shuri gave a half-smile. “I don’t know why you were drinking to begin with.”

You looked at her through the mirror. “Because I can.”

Shuri just smirked and you watched as she splashed some cold water on her face.

“Don’t ask,” she said, knowing she had yours and Riri’s attention.

“Oooh, they’re playing my song!” Riri exclaimed. “I’m sorry, Y/N, Shuri is gonna have to take over, I’ve been in here long enough.” She rushed out the door.

“I might as well just suck it up,” You sighed, defeated. 

Shuri removed her leather jacket and held it out to you. Looking at it and then her, you softly declined. 

“Suit yourself,” she said, sniffing into a paper towel.

“What happened to you?” 

Shuri finished with the paper towel, her nose reddening. “This woman, her perfume was overpowering.”

You burst into giggles.

“You’re laughing, but it made my nose hurt,” Shuri said, smiling small. You laughed harder when she started sneezing. 

“Okay, that’s enough,” she said, rolling her eyes playfully after wiping her nose once more. 

“Yeah, you better keep your jacket, girl.”

“Hush.” 

“Make me.” You then chuckled. Shuri cornered you and you quickly grabbed her hands. You held up her tattooed hand and admired it again. “I was supposed to get mine.”

“Oh, you didn’t get it?” You shook your head. “I can take you.”

Shuri was amused and moved by you analyzing and tracing her tattoo. She also secretly enjoyed your touch. “You’re just trying to get out of being tickled,” she said. 

You tightened your hold on her hands even more making her cackle. 

“I love your hands,” You blurted.

For the first time you saw her blush. “Yeah? What do you love about them?”

“They’re strong yet delicate. Just like you.” You smiled. 

“You’re so corny, Y/N.” 

“Yeah, whatever, I told no lies.” You turned away from her. 

Shuri backed you against the counter, making you yelp. She learned it was because you got some water on you. Her mouth was covered by her own hand in shock. You pushed her away from you.

“I am so sorry!”

You grumbled and went towards the door, Shuri fast on your tail. 

“Come on, I have clothes in my car,” she said. 

“Y/N, what happened now?” Riri questioned when Shuri announced that you were leaving. 

“This one got me wet,” You said, sternly pointing at Shuri. 

“In what way?” Riri wriggled her eyebrows.

“Riri, don’t start, I’m embarrassed as it is,” You retorted. “Shuri, let’s go.”

Riri smiled. “I’m just glad to see y’all like this again.”

“How are you getting home?” Shuri asked her. “You should come with us.”

“Kenya is meeting me here.”

“Let’s just wait until she gets here,” Shuri suggested to you, to which you readily agreed. You both went outside and she fetched a pair of basketball shorts and a sports bra for you to change into in the backseat. Shuri, Okoye, and Aneka waited outside.

When you’d already finished, moments later, Shuri opened the car door.  “I just met Kenya at the door. We’re good to go.” She looked you and up and down and smiled. “Don’t you look cute.”

Shuri took you home, but didn’t let you get out of the car just yet. Instead of discussing what she wanted to with you during the ride, she chose to bring it up now. 

“I’m just gonna come right out and say it…I’ve fallen for you. I know it’s only been going on three weeks, but not a day goes by that I don’t think of you and wish I could be right there. It was torture when you pulled back, then to top it off, you were dating that Zen-daya girl. I was miserable, angry, and confused, and taking it out on my team, which wasn’t cool. I never expected to fall for you let alone anyone. Not so fast, not like this. But here I am…not wanting or thinking about anyone but you.” 

Your mouth was ajar. This time you’d gasped albeit quietly. 

“True story,” Shuri confirmed. 

“…I was not expecting that!”

“Hmm.” She smiled to herself. 

You were truly flabbergasted. You had heard that Shuri was a player, plus you were her employee—you didn’t imagine she only wanted you and all to herself.

As if reading your mind, she continued, “I know you’ve heard…bad things about me when it comes to my dating life, and I want you to know I will prove to you that none of this is a game to me.” Her eyes held yours in earnest. After a beat, she laughed some, grasping your chin. “You should really close your mouth before something goes in it.”

“I’m truly flabbergasted…”

Shuri nodded. “This is a lot to take in, so I’ll give you as much time as you need. I promise I’ll be patient.” She leaned over the console and pressed a kiss to your forehead. “Let’s get you inside, yeah?”

Part 2