#take as much time as you require to reply (I gave you a lot anyway lmfao)

[ybklix]

late night confessions

★ pairing: han jisung x fem!reader

✦summary: It's not a secret that you like your older brother's best friend, but at least you think neither your brother nor his friend knows it, yet after you show up unexpectedly on one of their boys' nights out, Jisung, his best friend, can't control himself and ends up revealing a truth you never thought you'd hear.

♡ genre: smut, friends to lovers kinda, han is your older brother's bff

♡ warnings: MDNI, fingering, clitplay, slight grinding, unprotected sex.

word count: 4.4k

╰ ⋆⭒˚.⋆ masterlist - taglist forms

୧ ‧₊˚request by anon₊ ˚⊹♡

a/n: wait, i had this bro's bff idea with jeongin but made it for jisung heh

divider by fairytopia

It was unbelievable. You gasped in annoyance, unable to believe that this was how your night was ending, you just had a run of bad luck and, to top it all off, after your terrible day at work, your car stopped working, it wouldn't start and you didn't understand why, you were a girl, not a car expert. Plus you had left almost at the end, leaving you all alone in the parking lot, without asking for help.

You had no choice but to call your brother, you were a bit embarrassed to ask strangers for help; but your calls were in vain, Seungmin didn't pick up your call. You were stressed and frustrated, you were supposed to go to sleep at a friend's house and leave Seungmin alone, as you had previously agreed, since you had started living with him a year ago, settling in the city, but sometimes he would require privacy and you understood that perfectly… however tonight was one of those nights when you didn't feel friendly, much less like seeing your friend, you just wanted to go to your bed and cry for no apparent reason and at the same time because of everything.

You tried to find some help on the internet, searching and asking for contacts, but it was Saturday night and no one was available. You looked at your car a bit upset, upset that life was suddenly like this and that the only man you had in your life wasn't answering your call. You had no father to call in a hurry, let alone a boyfriend, you felt alone.

You swallowed your pride and sadness, looking for help, but it really seemed like you had nothing going for you, there was no one to help you, there were shops around, being manned by women with little knowledge of cars, you didn't know whether to feel grateful that suddenly there was no man around, or completely useless and stranded there. You gave up, got a ride home, without even letting Seungmin know you were on your way, he wasn't answering anyway and you weren't going to wait, you'd take care of your car tomorrow, you hoped.

When you arrived, everyone was in for a surprise; you found Seungmin drinking with his best friend, Han Jisung, on the living room floor, around them were bottles and on the small table a box of fried chicken, you were really hungry you would go without shame to have a piece, although Jisung's presence alone intimidated you, when you saw him… your world stopped for a second, you didn't expect to see him, you hadn't seen him for a long time, and for him, the feeling was very mutual, he was drunk, but he could distinguish perfectly that it was you, the girl who had driven him secretly crazy, because you were Seungmin's younger sister. And you stood still, before you could say anything or move forward, Seungmin got up from the floor, with an almost offended expression on his face.

“Hey, hey, what are you doing here?” your brother asked, drawing Jisung's attention.

You grimaced, you knew it wasn't the best time, your brother was kind of drunk with his best friend and you came in unexpectedly, but you were kind of sensitive that it really struck you that that was the first thing he said to you.

“Seungmo, calm down, it's your sister… hey Y/n, do you want fried chicken?” spoke Han, nervous and trying to get closer to you.

“Don't offer her fried chicken…” replied Seungmin, but you didn't really care and approached Jisung to eat some.

Han awkwardly and tenderly patted your head, you looked up at your brother's annoyed expression and put the food down, feeling embarrassed, feeling that Han saw you as a little girl after all this time. You practically knew each other all your lives, Han was the only son of your father's close friend; he was the same age as Seungmin so it made the two of them inseparable, but he couldn't help but feel something for you as you grew up together, he knew every part of you, seeing you with different eyes and, it wasn't until a couple of years ago that your father passed away, so Seungmin really worried, he let you live with him; putting Han at a crossroads, seeing you every time he had to see his best friend.

Han looked at you fondly, wanting to know what you were doing there too, how you got there, why you were there.

“My car broke down, I think,” you replied.

“You think?” your brother replied, raising an eyebrow, slowly returning to being the responsible Seungmin.

“Well, it just wouldn't start no matter how hard I tried and…”

“Where did you leave it?”

“In the car parking lot at work…”

“So did you get it fixed or…? What are you doing here?”

You rolled your eyes in annoyance.

“No… I came here by taxi and…”

“You really didn't ask for help, did you?” claimed Seungmin, knowing that you are shy.

“No it wasn't like... yes I did…”

Seungmin was a little drunk as to process so he simply said:

“I'll go fix it.”

You got up right away, confused.

“No, I'll have it fixed tomorrow, really.”

“I'll go check it out, Han, come with me.”

Han didn't think about it, he really didn't know exactly what was going on, but he tried to stand up, staggering in the process, so you quickly held him tightly so he wouldn't fall, he smiled apologetically and saw you with a deep look as he felt the strong grip of your hand on his arm.

“Shit, Han is drunk, it won't do me any good, I'll go alone.”

Seungmin hurried to the door to grab his car keys to which you also went behind him, confused and to make sure your brother is alright and not merely acting on impulse and in a hopelessly drunk state.

“Seungmin…” you tried to meet his gaze.

“What?”

You looked at him, he looked serious, he was so hard to read, but he towards you was not, “I'm fine” he repeated, “Besides I want some ramen and there's no more here, I'll be back soon, I'll drive you back to your car in the morning so you can have it. Take care of Han in the meanwhile.”

You were about to say something, to stop him since the situation was puzzling you so much… but you noticed a bit of concern in his voice, as if he was really worrying about you and, before you could do anything else, say anything else to him, you heard Han behind you stumble.

“Oops, sorry” he spoke, smiling and unable to keep still.

You sighed and walked back over to him, a bit strange as to what you should do; Han held onto you, dropping his body a bit.

“Mmm, do you think you can give me something comfortable to sleep in? I'll make myself comfortable on the couch” Han tried to say, recognizing that he couldn't be at ease knowing that you were alone with him, his senses slowly returning, it was better that he put himself to sleep before he did something crazy, or so he thought.

You swallowed your saliva nervously, his closeness and his deep voice made you nervous, he really looked handsome today, with his hair slightly fluffed and long, his pretty face with a stubble still maintaining the appearance of his clean and smooth look and his attire of black, perfectly highlighting his nice tanned skin, you felt bad… he was your brother's best friend you had known all your life, but sometimes you wanted him so badly.

“Sure” you replied, taking him a few steps to the couch and leaving him there.

Without thinking you walked to Seungmin's room but stopped at the door, wondering what the fuck you were going to do looking for clothes for Han, who watched you walk away with a smile on his face, thinking mischievously that you really had grown up. You turned around, to tell him that he could go by himself to get the clothes and you realized that Han had already stood up and was walking on his own without help and, without staggering so much, he couldn't help himself and shamelessly walked into your room, sitting on your bed and admiring every part of the space, you rushed in behind him, your shame reflecting on your face, not knowing how to tell him that he should get out of there right now, but you saw him, so happy sitting on your bed, his tender smile lifting his cheeks.

“Your room smells good,” he said.

Han had dreamed of that for a long time, being in every aspect of your life, getting to know you and, he took advantage of the fact that you considered him a drunk acting senseless, to get close to you, he thought it was kind of pathetic, but sober he would never have dared to even talk to you, you really put him in a very bad state and you didn't even know it, you had him in the palm of your hand, at your command, when he didn't see you for a long time he missed you and when he saw you often he felt fulfilled.

“Han… I think you should… you can find something comfortable in Seungmin's room and go to sleep” you answered quickly and nervously, seeing him in your room made your hair stand on end.

“Come here” he replied softly but you remained motionless at your door, “Help me stand up a bit” he lied.

You fell for it, and approached him; Han gasped, unable to bear the thought of having you all to himself and breathed in your scent once you were close to him. He watched you, up and down as you reached out your hand for him to take and lean on, but he, feeling his touch against your sweet, warm skin, took hold of your wrist and pulled, shifting your body and making you fall a little awkwardly into his lap. You were surprised and your mind reacted immediately, telling you that the most appropriate thing to do would be to get up instantly, but your body didn't react, Han placed his face by your neck, feeling his warm breath moving slightly some of your hair, he was breathing heavily, with his hands resting on your thighs, you shouldn't, just because you felt a slight pang of guilt inside you, because he was a couple of years older and he was your brother's best friend… but you couldn't understand that at the same time being in his lap felt so good.

“Let's stay like this for a while,” Han whispered in your ear, making you shiver.

You weren't uncomfortable, all you could think about was how good it felt to have him close like you'd never had him before, the last time you'd felt him with his body so close was maybe the brief little hug on your birthday. Yet everything inside you screamed that this wasn't right, that he was drunk, he didn't know what he was doing and that somehow you'd be betraying Seungmin since Han is the one man he trusts his sister with more than anything else in the world…. but now, Han was betraying his best friend by not keeping his conscience clear and thinking of all the dirty scenarios with you and you were starting to notice it… a strange and increasingly prominent hard feeling crashing against your ass, this time you got nervous, thinking the obvious, Han was starting to get aroused.

Han took a deep breath of the smell of your hair; you wouldn't believe the situation to move on so you whispered almost in a whimper, “Han, please…” you didn't know why you were pleading.

He let out a chuckle, "Please what?" he was starting to get cocky, all his power was travelling to his cock and your frail body trembled slightly at the feel of his cock against your ass. Your body reacted normally, an inevitable tension was beginning to build and you were getting wetter and wetter. Han stroked your thighs, desperate to feel only the denim of your jeans, but glad to have you on top of him, fighting your instincts.

Once again, he got close to your ear, finally telling you what he always wanted after long, agonizing years of keeping his crush a secret, after numerous dates with other girls that made him think none of them were you, after eating and tasting the wrong ones, just to fill the emptiness of not having you, until finally having you.

“Y/n, I like you so much, I really do” your heart raced and your whole system stopped working for a second, “I've liked you for a long time and I was stuck not being able to tell you…”

And there it was, everything you had dreamed of hearing for years, your dream come true, the answer to all your questions. You had the courage to turn to look at him, leaving him breathless in mid-sentence, unable to continue speaking and lost on your lips. You didn't really want to take it as an unconscious act on the part of his drunkenness, you really wanted to believe in him and something in his big, bright eyes that night detonated sincerity, so much so that he could speak, as normally as ever, his voice thick and soft at the same time:

“Can I kiss you?”

That was what he said and that was enough to make you begin to doubt reality… did Han Jisung really want to kiss you? After fantasizing about the perfect moment for both of you, this was how it was going to happen… feeling his erection against your ass. Honestly, you weren't complaining, you were both adults capable of making your own decisions, tonight would be for you and, if you had to enjoy Han you would, you would so for all the nights you spent hours thinking about him and he would, for the one girl who brought out a special side of him, sex with feelings, sex with meaning more than carnal desire.

You turned your body, making him moan softly at the friction against his erection, you admired his face for a few seconds and couldn't resist, bringing your lips to his, joining them in a passionate kiss, bringing together the two incredible desires you both had for each other for a long time. Both felt it unreal, caressing each other's lips, colliding and touching each other at a fiery, slow pace.

As you parted you looked at each other, both of you with incredulous looks, but with high expectations that something else might happen there right now. You kissed again, this time more desperate, his hands gripped your waist tightly and you tasted his tongue this time, feeling his cock throbbing under you, you were so excited, open to anything… you had always dreamed that everything would be romantic, your first date, your first kiss, but if that was how the situation was going to turn out, it really didn't matter much to you, it was with Han, after all, you were his dream girl and vice versa.

You separated again just to catch your breath, but you really wanted to live glued to each other, you bit your lip and noticed how he couldn't speak, he had that expression on him that you knew so well… he was stunned, so, wanting to take the first step, since if the two of you stayed shy it wasn't going to get you anywhere, you said:

“We should…” you couldn't find the right way to tell him that you wanted him to fuck you with all his might.

“Don't think I just want to have sex with you, I want to take you on nice dates and hold your hand and…” he rushed in nervously, interrupting you.

You smiled tenderly, he was back to his old Han self; you gave him a quick kiss, confessing on his lips, your nose brushing his, “I like you too, Jisung.” And you stood up abruptly, again making a moan escape his lips as he no longer felt your body against his cock.

“So you wanna have sex?” you added amused, watching him as you raised your eyebrows.

He didn't answer, he thought too much about it when you were already undressing quickly, you needed him desperately. You left Han dumbfounded and with his cock throbbing more and more. Finally, you were only in your underwear, with your dark gaze, biting your lip and with an intense inner fire, you stripped off the only light garments covering your body, leaving you completely naked.

“Y/n…” whispered Han breathlessly, shyly tracing your body.

It was his darkest fantasy, to fuck you and touch you; most of his thoughts were tender and romantic, but when he felt lonely and needy he fantasized about your body, on you moaning his name.

“Come on, Han, do the same for me.”

You asked so cheerfully, now it was he who thought he had returned the usual you, energetic and vivacious, always telling him anything; Han remembered his childhood, always calling his name 'Han this, Han that…', you really used to be close, but his crush on you distanced you without realizing it, until this very moment, you were sharing a moment again, one that transcended all previous ones, it was about to be such a dirty act, but so intimate.

He watched you, with his kind of innocent countenance, opening his eyes and blinking a few times; still, the first thing he did out of instinct was to direct his hand to his pants and, with some embarrassment, pulled them down with his underwear, exposing his needy, slightly curved cock. You looked at him with desire, you never thought that day would come and there you both were; Han finishing undressing, taking off his shirt and tossing it to the edge of your bed.

Your pussy and heart reacting the same way for a man, for Han Jisung, throbbing hard, your heart pumping blood with intensity, your pussy getting wetter and wetter. You smiled in amusement and bent down a little to stretch his jeans completely, leaving the garments on the floor.

Han looked at you with desire, however this time he felt a bit intimidated and needy… he really didn't know what to do or how to treat you, how was the way you enjoyed being touched, he wanted to be perfect for you and for you to enjoy every second, but he was just overthinking more and more.

“Come on, Han, touch me” you asked sincerely, moving closer to him, putting your whole body at his disposal.

He in that position was almost perfectly in front of the height of your breasts, so he raised his gaze and his hands caressed you, running from your ass, your hip, all the way up to your breasts, making you moan at the sensation of his skin finally touching you, making his cock throb with more intensity, covering its tip with precum.

Han played with your breasts some more, squeezing them and caressing your nipples, bringing shocks of excitement and pleasure to your body that you had never felt before. Slowly and smoothly he positioned himself leaning back against the back of your bed, you looked at him smiling and climbed onto your bed, approaching him on your knees, you were about to stand in front of him, but Han in a thick voice said to you:

“Turn around, dear, please.”

You were surprised at the way he said it and that he suddenly told you a soft command which you obeyed. Han had fantasized about fucking you while your back was to him, one of his dark thoughts when loneliness accompanied him, taking you by your hips as you slid your body onto his cock, he was so hard that the slightest touch from you could make him cum and he moaned, as he felt your back press his cock against his lower abdomen.

“Like this?” you asked, unsure of Han's plans, but highly aroused.

He wanted to check how aroused you were for him, he wanted to caress such a sensitive and private part of you before inserting his member into you. He wanted to fulfill all his perversions, but he wanted to be sweet and initiate lovingly with you, so he would wait, he would wait for you so you could know his deepest desires. Right now, he just wanted his fingers between your wet core.

“Spread your legs, just like this…” he ordered you gently and you did, letting out a soft moan as you felt the wetness of your folds part, Han settled on the side of your neck, “Look at you so wet.”

And the next thing you felt was one of his hands massaging your breasts and the other caressing your clit, you shivered at the sensation, with his heavy, warm breathing next to you; he continued to rub so finely at your vulva that again you shuddered, Han reached your entrance, so dripping begging for action and gave you its due attention, as he ran his two of his fingers, biting his lip and checking how wet you were for him, to finally slowly slide two fingers into your pussy. You moaned in surprise, Han was so focused on satisfying you that his thumb didn't stop attending to your sensitive clit even for a second, his cock was pulsing more every time, he was about to cum just by feeling your walls clinging to his fingers; you stirred your body slightly, enjoying the feeling of your insides being taken up, with his fingers reaching up to a perfect length teasing you to the limit.

“Do you like it?”

Han couldn't help but smirk smugly, your expression was one of pure pleasure, and you could only reply to him in an agitated “Yes,” with a breathless sigh. He moved his fingers slowly in you, enjoying the slick smoothness of your walls soaking his digits as you slowly swooned at his touch, his hard cock against your back, his thumb stroking your clit; you struggled to hold back your moans, but you were enjoying it too much. You could see your naked body, his hand busy on your breasts and the other with his hand buried in your pussy, giving you the most incredible pleasure, he knew how to do it so well that was enough for you to feel your orgasm close, you let yourself lean your body completely back against Han's naked chest, about to cum, sighing loudly and throwing your head back on his shoulder, your back arched a little and he gasped softly as he felt your walls squeeze his fingers tighter, releasing you into them.

Han laughed gently, smug and satisfied that you had cum just by him fucking you with his fingers; but you weren't the least bit tired, you were just getting started, poor Han had held back his orgasm, wanting to unload his entire load inside little pussy, making you his.

“C'mon, baby, let me fuck you.”

His murmur in your ear warmed your body and insides more, you were catching your breath a little but there was nothing to catch, at least you thought so, your friend's cock was so ready to be used that he didn't want to waste another second. You lifted your body a little, turned to see him and noticed how he was stroking his cock, with such a panting expression; the glans of his cock was so pink, slightly covered in white, almost more swollen than the first time you saw it. You without thinking raised your ass, not even bothering about a condom, just giving him free access to your pussy, slightly wiggling your ass as if in heat, waiting for Han to enter your dripping and previously attended pussy, but you sighed as you felt his length sliding down your wet labia, leaving you with his precum on them.

“Agh, fuck, all your pussy feels so good, baby, mmm.”

You looked up at him again, he was so focused, enjoying his cock slip through your vulva, until you finally felt it. His tip stretching your entrance, thrusting in so carefully it drove you crazy.

“Fuck, Han” you babbled, he was so swollen, stretching your walls.

He held you by your hips, pushing you gently until you were fully seated on his cock, your pussy feeling the skin of his balls; you both gasped at the same time, your insides squeezing him exquisitely and his cock filling your entire core to perfection.

“You can move, baby, or do you want me to do it for you?” he said again, excitedly.

You shook senselessly, slowly you were ceasing to think clearly. Your hands dug into his thighs, you stirred on his cock, with all his manhood buried in you and gave your first thrust upward, beginning to move your lower back, enjoying his cock inside you at your pace, as he held you firmly by your hips, supporting your movements and panting steadily. He massaged your ass and returned his hands to your hips, enjoying the close-up view of your entrance using up his cock, so slippery and making it wetter on the spot. You accelerated your movements, starting to jump without stopping, bumping your bodies, making you ecstatic but leaving you tired; Han was about to cum, so well that the moment he felt your body weaken, he did not hesitate to start pounding you deep and hard, causing a muffled moan in you, now resting your hands on the bed, making him stand up a little on his knees, ramming you with intensity until bringing him to his long awaited and great orgasm, squeezing all his juice inside you. You felt his warm cum, your body couldn't take that much either, Han thrust deep into you, pounding you until he even rocked your torso, arching your back, with your nails buried in your sheets, you climaxed for a second time, your insides coating his cock; both of you tired but unbelievably satisfied with each other.

You were returning to your normal state, at least you were more aware of your surroundings and, still with his cock inside you; the noise of the city altered your senses. You didn't live alone and Seungmin might arrive unexpectedly, plus your door was slightly open.

“Han… you have to go” you told him softly, worried that your brother might show up at any moment.

Han whined, being so comfortable with you, your pussy warming his cock. But he knew perfectly well he had to do it. The next morning you really thought he wouldn't remember anything, until that moment of the day, when you sorrowfully went to make yourself breakfast and when Seungmin wasn't around, he approached you and in a slightly seductive whisper said, “And what day does our first date sound good to you?”

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

𐙚TAGLIST: @rylea08 @hann1bee @iovecb97 @armystay89

[junabuggy]

Hi! I love your writing! Would you be up for writing a fic where reader has super bad separation anxiety from Al, but he has to go somewhere without them and either Angel Dust or Husk is in charge of taking care of them/keeping them calm while he’s gone? Thanks a bunch!!! ❤️

Separation anxiety! GN! Reader x Alastor/husker?

A/n: Of course !! Honestly this has been super fun and I’m more than grateful for all the people who seem to enjoy my silly little fanfictions/headcanons, many thanks everybody ♥️♥️

Also, if you couldn’t tell from a lot of my writing, I’ve taken quite a liking to Alastor… So I get it, I love him too y’all ദ്ദി ˉ͈̀꒳ˉ͈́ )✧

Warnings: Mentions of separation anxiety, Mentions of alcohol, Alastor being Alastor so light mentions of blood and cannibalism (doesn’t actually happen)

Fluff✔️ Comfort✔️ Angst❌ Smut❌

Hope yall don’t mind a few headcanons first about this :33

📻𖤐 it’s hard to tell how Alastor would realistically react to someone being attached to him in that way..

📻𖤐 Like do I think it would bother him? No, he wouldn’t mind you tagging along wherever he went as long as you didn’t bother him too much or get in the way of things but there are just times where he requires or wants to be alone. Which is where Husker would come in lol

📻𖤐 He probably wouldn’t leave you with Angel, even if Husk wasn’t available for whatever reason he’d just get Charlie to look after you while he was away.

📻𖤐 I feel like he cares/loves in an odd way.. like he wants to tear you apart and lick up all your delicious, sweet blood but in an affectionate way??? If that makes sense?? Remember that pomegranate cannibalism metaphor that went around on TikTok for a bit there? Think that.

📻𖤐 of course, he wouldn’t do that, he wants to keep you around.

Okok I’m done yapping about silly radio man lol, onto the fic

Unfortunately, today was one of those days you couldn’t tag along with where Alastor went, he was attending an overlord meeting and obviously you not being an overlord it meant that you couldn’t go with him despite all of your protests and begging.

Before his departure, he sat you down at the bar with Husker and gave you a little pat on the head, telling you that he’d be back shortly and walking out of the hotel doors.

The grumpy cat demon poured himself a drink as he stared at you, this wasn’t exactly the first time Alastor had left him on “babysitting” duty with you and he didn’t exactly mind it. You were quite sweet for somebody who landed themselves in a place like hell.

“Where’s he off to this time?” Husker asked before taking a sip of the alcoholic beverage he held in his hand, attempting to make some form of conversation with you.

“Oh.. just some kind of silly overlord meeting…” You mumbled out a short reply whilst looking a bit glum. He simply nodded in response, setting his glass down on the bar countertop to mix you up a little something as well.

Husk didn’t understand your attachment to the Radio Demon to be completely frank with you. He and a lot of others viewed Alastor as something to fear, respect, and try to avoid contact with the best they could… so seeing someone who enjoyed his company was a foreign idea to him. But he wouldn’t judge you for it. It wasn’t exactly his business anyways and at least he seemed to treat you decently.

“Don’t stress it kid, he’ll be back soon. He keeps his promises I’ll give him that much.” Husk attempted to reassure you, giving a slight smile as he slid a drink down to you.

You smiled back weakly and nodded, taking a deep breath as you grabbed the drink he had slid over to you. You took a sip and it tasted like a screwdriver, not too bad of a drink and it would probably take your mind off of things a little bit if you had a few of them. Which was probably the goal Husker was trying to reach.. he couldn’t imagine separation anxiety to be very fun.

Later into the night once you got a few drinks in you, you started to forget all about why you were upset and/or stressed out in the first place. Chatting with Husk about random stuff and occasionally mentioning and talking about a person or two.

Husk wished there were more nights like this, more time spent with you… and who knows? Maybe you’ll be visiting the bar more often for him after tonight if he was lucky. He was pretty good at playing his cards right, after all.

(Sorry this was kinda short !! I wasn’t sure what else to write. Lmk if you guys maybe want a part two with Alastor coming back from his little meeting, I might do that :3)

𝐏𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐝𝐨 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐳𝐞, 𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐦𝐲 𝐰𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 ◟( ˃̶͈◡ ˂̶͈ )◞

ᯓ★ 𝐣𝐮𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐮𝐠𝐠𝐲

[happilysmythe]

hey queen!

you already know what I’m here to request!

could we get some Freddy x photographer action plssss;)

- ❤️ ky

hi queenie!

guys i'm back [proud]. who cheered?

i had the worst writer's block you could imagine and school was kicking my ass.

anyway, i started writing this back in june and i finally finished it tonight, so i hope this is still up to par with the rest of my stories :)

WARNING: smut under the cut!!

- - -

he was a forbidden fruit, and she was eve.

Ah, Sunrise, Florida.

The perfect destination spot for a relaxing vacation. Lots of retirees, warm weather, beautiful scenery—what more could anyone ask for? 

Of course, to your crowd, it was the home of the Florida Panthers. And you were there on a business trip. But unlike most professions that required a trip, being a sports photographer allowed for tons of leisure when traveling.

It was a beautiful night—a crisp 65 degrees in the middle of February, unlike Boston’s whopping 30. You finally had the chance to sit down after the game—not before taking a shower, of course—and had to go through the extensive process of sifting through your photos to determine which would be published. One unique aspect of that process was that you often liked to hear the players' opinions. They were your acquaintances, some even your close friends, and it gave more perspective to your work when the subjects helped publicize it.

So you frequently had the guys moving in and out of your workspaces—whether it be an office at Warrior or the varying hotel rooms across the country—huddling over your computer screen as you showcased and picked through your work.

You plopped down into the desk chair in the corner of the small hotel room and opened up your laptop, pushing the chair in and setting up the space as the screen booted up. You leisurely scrolled through the photos you snapped a few hours earlier, sipping on a late-night refresher and deleting the duds.

Trent Frederic, the feisty 26-year-old forward, dumped the puck in the net twice that particular night. It was safe to say that he was the subject of numerous pictures.

Not that you'd complain, of course.

A telling grin pricked at the corners of your lips when you saw them. Alright, maybe it was slightly unprofessional to look at them that way. You knew that. But what was wrong with having a little bit of a work crush, for lack of a better term? Nothing, as long as you didn’t treat him differently or act on anything. Hell, if you were being honest, at least 80 percent of that team was good-looking—so there was nothing to worry about.

At least, that’s what you told yourself to be able to sleep at night.

Regardless, you’d have to set aside whatever it was because you had pictures to sift through. And with your hands-on way of doing things, he’d be in that very hotel room within the next ten minutes.

in my room looking through pics. stop by and run through them?

You quickly shot him the text and sat back, awaiting his response. You had a system in place—they would have ten minutes to reply, and if they didn't, you would move on to the next or go to sleep yourself. They knew not to show up past the mark.

Then, your phone dinged.

Be there in 5

So you waited again, taking the time to prepare yourself (as you usually did). Although you wouldn’t admit it, you took a few extra seconds to dial in when it was him. And this time? Well, you’d need it. All of those pictures didn’t take themselves.

Especially the one that had been open on your screen for much longer than necessary.

The knock on the door interrupted your witless staring and you quickly minimized your screen. You took a breath and stood up. Opening the door revealed Trent standing behind it, curls still damp from his post-game shower and white shirt hugging his upper body. You swallowed, no doubt offset by the sight, and promptly cleared your throat to disrupt the silence.

“Hey, Fred,” you put on a smile. “Come on in.”

He calmly followed you over to the desk, eyes roaming around the room before focusing back on you—now sitting back in the chair as you were before. “Is there another chair?” he finally spoke.

“Oh, shit. I don’t think so,” you answered, lips flattening into a line. “Here, uh.” You stood up and looked around—there was no good substitute, and likely no room for two people at the desk. “Let’s just sit on the bed instead. More room, anyway.”

“Alright.”

Thankfully, he helped move your computer to the bed and keep the camera on the desk, which sped up the process and made it less stressful. With the laptop at the foot of the bed, you both rested flat on your stomachs. You left some space between, but you were still apprehensive about his proximity. You couldn’t help but feel like a teenage girl with a crush at school.

“So,” you finally began, scrolling through, “there were a lot of throwaways. Just borderline unpublishable.”

He laughed, “As usual.”

“But I think some of the best ones were from the first goal,” you maximized the size to see the array of photos from the goal. “This one,” your cursor hovered above, “—you were in the corner with the celebration. That’s pretty good.” You focused on another, moving the cursor over to it. “Celly line. You had your leg popped. Might be cool for the socials.”

“And in this one, you had Pat there in the hug,” you pointed to another. “He’s become a good fan-favorite, so that could work,” you clarified.

He nodded, listening to your ample breakdown of each shot you decided not to delete before he came. “What’s that one?” his finger pointed.

To your unpleasant surprise, the image was all too familiar. It was the one you stared down earlier until he knocked on the door.

It was between whistles. Late in the second—not that it mattered. He was conversing at the face-off dot and waiting to get into position. From your angle, it seemed as if he were laughing—likely at something a teammate said—and your finger snapped the picture almost subconsciously from the sight of his smile. At that moment, it was nothing—but having him beside you brought forth your underlying embarrassment.

“Oh, it’s just,” you hesitantly clicked on it, “—I took it in between whistles.” You swallowed, discreetly side-eyeing him and trying to gauge his reaction.

“Yeah?”

“…Yeah.”

“Thought it would be cool for one of those ‘post-game smiles’ posts,” you lied. “Sometimes they post ‘em on Twitter and Instagram. They get good traction from the fans,” you began to ramble.

You almost made it through without slipping up.

“—And you looked cute.”

Almost.

He turned to face you. “Looked cute, eh?”

You looked back over. Of course, he was grinning—he was…sort of arrogant sometimes. Not in a way that made him an asshole—you found him to be one of the friendliest on the team—but sometimes, you could just…feel the cockiness radiating off of him. Truthfully, it might have only been when he was with you because you were poor at hiding things.

“Yeah? You know, for the pictures.”

“You lying?”

Silence.

Your focus shifted back and forth between his eyes. Then around the room and back to his face. Your eyes flitted down to his stretched lips and back up, studying his features, hoping to find some sort of belief in his expression. You already knew you were fucked.

But for some reason, you weren’t feeling so rattled anymore.

“Yeah,” was what you decided on.

His eyes narrowed and you felt him drawing closer. The heat from his body radiated onto yours. In a similar manner to yours, his eyes moved down and trailed back up. 

“You’re not slick, you know,” he whispered, lips slightly upturned.

“Never claimed to be,” you retorted. You were moving closer—leaning forward as if your body were in control instead of your head, and maybe it was. Warm breath fanned your lips, his white teeth peeking out, and intruding thoughts of grazing your tongue along them disrupted your already-faltering composure.

“And maybe I wasn’t trying to be.”

His lips finally linked with yours, together moving in a slow, sensual rhythm. He wrapped an arm around your waist and settled his palm in the small of your back, allowing him to effortlessly pull you into his body—turning you on your side in the process. His other arm reached outward and closed the screen of your laptop. The faint thud as it dropped to the floor caused your body to jolt and he tugged you closer.

When you asked him to come down to your room, you didn’t intend to have his tongue in your mouth. But sometimes that’s just how the cards fall, right?

Your fingers weaved into his dark red curls, still damp from his post-game shower. And you couldn’t resist sliding the other hand under his white t-shirt to feel the warm skin beneath it, trailing upward to the chain you knew was concealed by the cotton material; you were present the morning his compression shirt was ripped at the chest and it never quite went unnoticed after that. 

Trent’s hands tenaciously gripped your sides and pulled you on top of him. He rolled onto his back, head at the foot of the bed and hair dangling over the edge. You were then sitting in his lap, his hands keeping you grounded, and although it was wrong—and so jeopardizing to your job—it felt so right to give in to the insatiable need for him that you’d been harboring for far too long.

Contrary to your own beliefs, you were rather good at hiding your attraction to him. He and you had been good friends—similarly to the rest of the team—and he shockingly wasn’t aware of how you felt until you gave yourself away just moments ago. His earlier accusation, in his mind, was baseless.

You bent down and captured his lips in another kiss, tongue slipping past them again as his fingers pressed into your hips. His hands slid under the thin t-shirt you often wore to bed and began to lift it. It remained bunched up at your chest until you lifted your arms and the fabric was no longer on your body, but instead discarded to the floor. A faint hum of approval left his mouth at the sight of your bare torso—of course, you hadn’t worn a bra to bed—and without a second thought his arms crossed over one another and peeled his shirt off his body.

“We shouldn’t be doing this,” he hummed, fingers tracing the waistband of your pajama shorts, eyes drinking in the sight of your body and committing each inch of it to memory.

“I know,” you finally responded softly. “But we’ve already gotten this far.”

Nothing’s wrong with having a dirty little secret, right?

So that’s what you mutually agreed on—it was going to stay a secret. And it was going to be a one-time affair.

Even when he so easily had you wrapped around his finger. Even when you found yourself molded perfectly in his lap like your legs were tailor-made to wrap around his figure. Even when the last remnants of your clothing were removed and the length of his fingers, slick with your arousal, pushed into your core and brought you to your first release.

Even when his fingers were coated in white, it was going to stay a secret.

“Fuck, Trent,” the words tumbled from your mouth like a mantra. It was the first time you'd ever called him by his first name. And it was only ironic that it was through a moan. Your legs trembled and your palms rested flat on his toned stomach. Had you not kept them there for support, you likely wouldn’t have been able to keep yourself up.

With one hand on your hip and the other rising to his lips to clean its fingers with his tongue, Trent felt himself straining beneath you. It was the warmth of your body; your hips that were grinding in his lap just moments ago. If he wasn’t inside you in the next five minutes, he was sure he wouldn’t see the light of day again. And you could feel it, too. So you leaned back and reached for the drawer in the nightstand.

“What,” he half-whispered as he looked over, “what are you—”

Before he could finish his sentence, your hand popped up with a small box—still sealed—between your fingers. “Someone left this here,” you stated before frantically ripping it open and taking out a condom. 

Trent wasted no time forcing his sweatpants down his legs. He couldn’t be bothered to take them off fully.

Dainty fingers tore the foil open and tossed it to the floor before slipping the rubber on him. The moment he was sure it was secure, the pads of his fingers dug into your hips and lifted you.

The next few seconds seemed to pass in a haze, because you barely remembered anything before you were back in his lap with him buried to the hilt. The sting of him stretching you out lasted only for a moment, yet your hands were already grasping at anything they could find; his chest, his biceps, his sides—anything. Your head lulled back and your mouth hung open. Meanwhile, he was holding on by a thread. He made every possible attempt not to focus on how fucking tight you were.

“Jesus Christ,” he finally vocalized, pressing his fingers firmly into your sides. He used his remaining strength to drag you down, leaving you chest-to-chest. Your trembling hands slipped around his neck and found purchase at the nape. Trent took this as his cue and began to move your hips. He gauged what you could take and set the pace.

He felt good. Really good.

In a way that made you aware of all of your senses. The feeling of skin touching skin. The taste of him as his tongue rolled over yours. The sound of his breaths occasionally coming out as a groan. The sight of his tensed-up face, and the smell of his after-shave wafting in the air around you.

As your consciousness slowly came back, you were able to take control of your movements. Your fingertips skimmed his arms and wrapped around his biceps, holding them for stability. It was in a moment like this that you were thankful he played hockey. It was like his body was made for it—his perfectly sculpted muscles, the warmth he radiated, the sheer thickness of his figure—and it was only natural that he could envelop you entirely with his presence.

He was everything you could’ve imagined. And although it would only—could only—be for one night, he was so attentive, as if you were so much more to him than that. And perhaps you were, but all you could be was nothing more than a photographer; his inferior.

Regardless of how much you both wanted that to change.

“Trent,” his name descended from your lips in a whisper. To your surprise, his hands glided up to your cheeks and held them in what could only be described as an intimate gesture. Before he could second-guess it, you pressed your forehead to his, fingertips pushing firmly into the flesh of his arms as your hips rolled in his lap.

Finally, after what seemed like forever, you felt the tension in your stomach. The same tension that made you tighten around his fingers earlier, only this time it was around him. And he could feel it.

His thumbs grazed your cheeks as he pulled you into him, and suddenly he was kissing you again. You could only be thankful for the gesture afterward, recognizing that he was absorbing the sound of your moans as you felt the coil in your stomach snap. Pleasure ripped through you in an exhilarating wave, and the mere sight and sound were enough to pull him over the edge with you.

The intensity forced your body to fall limp atop his. With his remaining strength—which was astoundingly little—his arms wrapped around your midsection and kept you in place. And in response, you found yourself nestling your face into his neck as if you were used to this. Maybe it was just in the heat of the moment (and likely not so), but he didn’t seem to protest it.

Trent finally broke the silence with a quiet sigh. His thumb rubbed your back in little circles, steadying your breaths and soothing your nerves. “You okay?” he half-whispered, and you nodded slowly in response.

“Mhm.”

“Good,” he carefully sat upright and brought you up with him. His arms remained enveloped around you to keep you stable, and he brushed a strand of hair behind your ear. “Am I staying here or leaving?”

It was a simple question. Of course, you wanted him to, but your mind was hazed with what-ifs. What if someone caught him leaving the next morning? What if someone had already heard, and this would only dig you into a deeper hole? But letting him sleep with you? It would be anything but casual. So you took a beat to think about it and gave him your answer.

“Staying.”

You’d deal with the repercussions in the morning. After all, everything was still surreal to you. For so long, that stupid little crush was controlling your life. You hoped this would put it to rest and give it some closure. Just one night to get him out of your system.

What you hadn't known was that that “one night” would continue to control your life, because you’d unknowingly be spending the rest of it with him.

[ryuichirou]

HELLOOO I LOVE YOUR ART AND YOUR HCS CAN I ASK ONE?

If the twst characters ever had an ex or a girlfriend/boyfriend before and what they did with them when they were still together or what you want to add! THANK YOU SO MUCH

Hi, Anon!! Thank you so much for loving my art!! <3 Sorry for the late reply!

This question is tough; characters having exes is also something I never really think about unless a specific scenario requires it… but I’ll share some of my thoughts! Spoiler alert: I thought about all of the boys, but only a handful gave me the vibe of someone who has an ex or any kind of prior romantic/sexual experience… all of them are such virgins 😔

I also know some people like to imagine some of the canon boys being each other’s exes, but I don’t really see them that way, once again, unless we have a very specific scenario on our hands. 🤔

I have to mention Ace, even though I don’t have much to add because the boy said it himself in canon lol Ace used to have a gf for a brief period, but he realised that he was bored around her and started to avoid her, leading to them breaking up… which is pretty typical for someone this young, I think lol the guy didn’t really understand how relationships work. Anyways, I think Ace and that girl kissed once and held hands a couple of times. Ace probably thought about the possibility of them having sex, but didn’t really want to do it so he never even hinted at it – plus he figured that a girl he’d been dating for like a couple of days wouldn’t want to do it anyway. Despite being a hormonal teen, somehow it wasn’t a huge loss to him.

Deuce doesn’t have an ex, but he used to have some tension with one of his senpai from his delinquent days. Deuce didn’t fully understand that it was romantic back then, he probably doesn’t fully get it to this day, but he does think about that one senpai every now and then. Sometimes he remembers how he ruffled his hair and stuff…

Trey also doesn’t really have an ex, but he may or may not be someone who used to have “no strings attached” kind of sex during his freshman year…. we can neither confirm nor deny 👀 Even though he is romantic enough to want to do it with someone he really loves, hopefully his childhood sweetheart. But oh well, what Trey does and what Trey wants are two different things.

Cater has a bunch of exes, but his longest relationship lasted like a couple of months. Because he kept changing schools and stuff he either had to say goodbye, or didn’t want to get attached in the first place. And sometimes he just got dumped! He actually got dumped a lot, I think lol All of it is pretty sad, but hey, he got to experience stuff with a bunch of very different people! He had a lot of partners, and had sex with the majority of them…

Leona wouldn’t call that person an ex himself, but I can imagine him being with an older man at some point… not hinting at twst-fied Zazu btw, just some random man lol Maybe Leona would say “ah yes I used that fool to lose virginity” as if he wasn’t crushing on him or something. What is this Leona-centric fanfic?

Lilia had a lot of affairs, and some of them lasted pretty long time (not as long as his first ever affair though), but Lilia never considered anyone to be his partner. Being in a relationship “officially” has never really been his thing, even though he probably longed for it on some level when he was younger… I think Lilia left a lot of people because they would start taking their thing too seriously, which he isn’t really proud of, but hey, that’s life!

[rayadraws]

Fic authors self rec! When you get this, reply with your favorite five fics that you've written, then pass on to at least five other writers (except me cuz obvs I have already done it). spread the self-love ❤

Oh, thank you for tagging me!

Let's see...

Maybe it's just because I just finished it and it's my current obsession, but I AM very pleased with To Capture A Dragon (DND/OC fic). It's about Sorrel, a young gold dragon (in his human form) who is captured by dragon hunters and his attempts as freeing himself again.

Short excerpt:

“Everyone knows dragons hoard treasure. He’ll bring anything of value back and we’ll split it between us.”

“Do they?” Sorrel feigned ignorance. “But surely they don’t carry it with them? That seems awfully inconvenient to me.”

“She’ll make you talk. You’ll tell her where it is. She has all sorts of magical things with her. Tried and tested on other dragons.”

“I’m talking right now, you don’t need magic for that.”

“You shouldn’t be,” Robin reminded him.

“Sounds to me like you need to make up your mind on whether you want me to talk or not.”

Full work

----

Next one is BG3 FicFeb Challenge, which is BG3 fanfic featuring my Tav, Cirrus the tiefling sorcerer. It's 29 oneshots based on prompts and I have never written so much in such a short period, I had a lot of fun with it.

Short excerpt:

“Darling, I usually have slightly higher requirements than this for my beverages,” Astarion retorted, watching Cirrus lift the bottle to his mouth with raised eyebrows, clearly judging his preferences. Cirrus shrugged, taking another swig of the cheap wine, managing to mostly hide his grimace at its sour taste.

“And you do not, I see. Low standards, I take it?” Astarion continued. Cirrus felt small under that intense red gaze, though the alcohol was helping with that. He’d always felt more confident after a couple of drinks. 

“Let the tiefling drink,” Shadowheart butted in, though she grabbed the bottle from Cirrus to try it for herself. “Oh, that is foul!” she exclaimed, wrinkling her nose at the taste hitting her tongue and near shoving the bottle back into his hand.

Full work (NSFW) (Bonus! Chapter 1 is actually Sorrel's first ever appearance. I developed him as a character after writing this lol)

---

Demon Cyborg's Livestream

This is my most popular OPM/SG fanfic I think, I had a lot of fun writing it too.

Short excerpt:

> iLOVEdc: are u goin to confess

”Confess what?” At that comment he looks up, appearing confused. Or perhaps in denial.

> iLOVEdc: that u

> iLOVEdc: that hr means so much to u

”That’s none of your business.” Genos’ tone is sharp now, and loud. He catches himself, peeking over his shoulder, assuring himself that the lump on the floor remains still. Once confident that he didn’t wake his room mate up, he turns back to the screen, voice softer again.

”That’s between him and me.”

Full work

---

Old Boys

A few oneshot featuring Saitama and Genos as an old married couple. I had a lot of fun writing these too.

Saitama gave him a curious look. He turned to look out the window.

“What is he doing anyway?” Pow asked.

“Stumbling around and looking angry.”

“He’s looking for caterpillars.”

“Come again?”

Pow spoke even louder. “Caterpillars! ”

Saitama snorted, gaze still on his husband outside. 

“You told him there’s caterpillars? This time of year?”

Full work

---

For 5th and final one I'll pick Rewind, which is another SG fanfic. Genos gets amnesia and Saitama has to come to terms with him possibly never getting his memories back - and maybe that's for the best? It'll certainly be safer for Genos, anyway.

”Why am I a cyborg?” Genos asked one day, and Kuseno paused what he was doing, putting his tools down to give him a long, contemplating look.

This was something he’d debated long with himself since Genos woke up that awful day, many nights while Genos slept deeply in the next room. How much would be fair to say to the boy about his old life? His grief and rage had been large parts of his identity for as long as he’d known him. How many times had he seen his boy furious, heartbroken, devastated at the cruel fate he’d been handed? How many times had he woken up from nightmares, screaming, crying, sometimes setting off the fire alarm after attacking the ghosts of his past in his sleep? How many times had Genos told him as the oil streamed down his face that he wished he could forget his past once and for all?

Full work

[megpricephotography]

Out of curiosity, how were your beautiful pups rescued? I’ve always dreamed of having a rescue pup myself but at the moment can’t have my own pet. Thank you!

Hi, thanks for the ask! Barney & Flynn both came to me by chance really & were private adoptions, rather than from a shelter. They have similar backstories. I got them as young adults - Barney at 15 months, Flynn at 20 months, after their respective previous owners couldn’t cope with their behaviour. Both were “reactive” - displaying fear based aggression. Barney had a wider range of things he hated: strangers, dogs, new/unexpected objects & situations but Flynn’s case was much more severe - he was almost untouchable. Both dogs were in imminent danger of being euthanised due to these issues - Barney within hours & Flynn, days. 

By very lucky chance, my dad was there at just the right time & he offered an emergency foster home for Barney. Dad planned to find a new owner, who’d dealt with “difficult” dogs before. I was inexperienced but had wanted a BC for 15 years & when I met Barney, I fell in love & decided we’d make it work, somehow! The early years were tough - I had lots to learn. With Flynn... it turns out, once you’ve helped one nervy border collie, people try to give you more!! I was reluctant to even meet Flynnie - from what I'd been told, he was clearly going be very hard work, which I wasn't keen to take on but I finally gave in & he was a sweet, clever dog who seemed very keen to try. He'd run out of options - it was come to me, or Flynn was going to be put down... I crossed my fingers & said I’d have him. So, yes, I got my dogs because they needed a 2nd chance & I was there & willing to have them. 

Life with Barney & Flynn hasn’t always been easy - but they’re wonderful, loving dogs & seeing their behaviour improve, as they gain confidence & trust, has been an incredible experience. Private adoptions *can* be risky though & there’s often less of a safety net, if you realise it’s not working out. If & when you’re in a position to get a dog, I’d try to adopt via a well-run rescue organisation, to have the best chance of success. Look for an organisation which assesses each dog & can give a bit of info on health, temperament, behaviour & care requirements, & just in case you do run into any problems, check if they offer support after adoption.

There are all kinds of dogs waiting for new owners: some will have had a good family before & will fit in to a new home quite easily, many dogs will need training - to learn basic manners, leash walking, poss how to interact politely with kids/dogs etc... others have behavioural (or health) problems, which will require a great deal of time, effort & poss money, to manage long-term. Any adopted dog will need patience & guidance while they settle in but some are going to be easier than others - it is worth thinking about what you're happy to deal with. Whatever dog you choose, you’ll be helping more than just that one - the space created by their adoption will be now be open to another dog in need of a new family. 

Anyway that turned into a very long reply, sorry for the essay & that I was a bit slow replying! I hope you don’t have to wait too long until you’re in a position where you get a rescue dog of your own & that when you do it's a fun & rewarding experience & you have many happy years of adventures together :) 

[rayraygo1267]

A Gabenath Fanfiction: Admiration in Disguise Chapter Three

Rated: T

Warnings: Minor Languge

Word count: 1,875

Link to Chapter One

Link to Chapter Two

Chapter Three

"What would you like for breakfast Adrien?" Nathalie asked the following morning whilst wiping the tiredness from her eyes, making  her way to the stove. Adrien, who was already perched at the kitchen island, smiled lazily up at her, his arms stretching as he yawned.  

"Can we have French toast?"

"I don't see why not," Nathalie said with a shrug, already cracking an egg into the pan. She was fairly certain that it would be reasonable to say they were both growing tired of Gabriel’s pancakes. In fact, she was herself considering purchasing a cookbook for him, just as a gentle nudge.

As she stirred the mixture of ingredients, her mind began to wander and she started to hum — a melody she didn’t know well but was familiar with — probably one of Adrien’s old piano pieces. Though as the batter began to sizzle, the smell of powdered sugar wafting through the air, the sound of Adrien’s voice snatched her from her thoughts. 

“Hey Nathalie, can I ask you something?” His tone was reluctant which was never a good sign and caused a sense of dread to wash over Nathalie. 

 She had stayed up far too late —  tossing and turning — to think through anything clearly. Her mind felt as if it was in a frazzled mist — her only thoughts being of Gabriel and how she could convince him that she was still a mandatory asset to his goal. Her brain only had room for one pressing matter at a time. 

“Of course Adrien.” She replied anyway, trying her best to mask her exhaustion. 

Adrien perked up, his face brightening, and with as much nonchalance as ever he asked, "So, tonight there's going to be this party with Kitty Section and..."

He didn’t need to finish, his pleading expression was enough to indicate his desire. Nathalie mentally groaned, for she couldn’t deny Adrien when he gave her that look. The look that made her stomach churn with a pungent guilt. The poor boy never got out much due to Gabriel’s rigorous inclinations — and while she found it endearing that Gabriel cared so intently for his son’s safety, she knew that his strict conduct took a toll on Adrien mentally, causing him to feel isolated. 

Nathalie let out a deep rueful sigh, her knuckles turning white as she gripped the handle of the frying pan.

"You may go."

Adrien paused, eyes widening in surprise.

"Really? But what about Father?"

Adrien was right, Gabriel wouldn't be pleased to say the least. Nathalie knew she could convince him though, even if it would require a lot of begging and bargaining on her part. Gabriel was as stubborn as he was dedicated, which to Nathalie was both impressive and infuriating. 

"I'll handle your father," Nathalie placated, sliding a plate of golden-brown French toast his way. Adrien grinned, his green eyes glistening, an uncanny reflection of his mother's. Sometimes when looking at him, all Nathalie could see was Emilie, her eyes, her hair, even her face shape.

He was a spitting image of her — a ghost.

Nathalie could hear the scrape of cutlery as Adrien drenched his French toast in a puddle of syrup. She took hold of her own plate, turning to take a seat across from him. 

Adrien’s gaze was on his food, his eyes unfocused. "Thank you, Mom,” he said with his signature bout of cheeriness as he shoved another bite of French toast into his mouth. 

The dish in Nathalie’s hands nearly slipped from her grasp as Adrien's words registered. Time seemed to warp in that instant as Adrien’s hand flew to his mouth, his fork clattering against the countertop. 

"I—Nathalie, I'm so sorry. I didn't mean..." he trailed off, his cheeks aflame.

"It's alright Adrien." Nathalie muttered quickly, her brain still trying to fight through the cloudy mess that was her own complicated whirlwind of emotions. 

She would be lying if she said she wasn't extremely touched by Adrien's sentiment, even if it were accidental, but she couldn’t say it didn’t stir up an emotional tempest within her. 

Personally, she'd never once thought of herself as any type of mother figure, especially to Adrien — that was Emilie’s job — but that didn't mean she didn't ever want to be one.

All those flashing memories of Adrien’s youth came rushing back to her. She remembered all the times she had held, played, and even soothed the young Agreste. She had done all those motherly pursuits in both Emilie’s and Gabriel’s absences because she refused to have Adrien growing up in a world where he felt alone. 

Nathalie was abruptly jolted from her reverie by the sound of a chair scraping across the floor. Adrien appeared by her side, placing his empty dish in the sink. The atmosphere around them now felt fragile, a suspended moment in time.

"I'm really sorry Nathalie.” Adrien began sincerely, arms pressed against his chest.

“I didn't mean to upset you. I just...well ever since mom...disappeared...I've just felt so alone, almost like there was this void in my heart and with Father being so distant—your presence has been a huge comfort to me,” his face brightened, “You truly do mean a lot to me Nathalie. You always have."

Tears glistened in Adrien’s eyes as he spoke, turning and enveloping Nathalie into a firm hug. Nathalie was momentarily motionless, her heart stuttering, but she seemed to pick back up to speed again when she felt a seed of warmth blossom throughout her chest. 

“I’m truly not upset Adrien,” she murmured.  "Not at all, you know that I love you,” she assured him gently.

Adrien leaned back, his features in jeopardy of crumbling, his eyes springing with a fresh set of tears,“You do?” 

Nathalie smiled tenderly, her affection clear in her gaze, “Of course I do. I made a promise to both your mother and father to look after you and I plan to do just that.” 

Adrien pulled her back into his embrace, his grip on her tightening, a joyful cry escaping his lips as he buried his face deep into her chest.

“I love you Nathalie.” He murmured, voice muffled.

Nathalie chuckled wetly, resting her chin on the crown of Adrien’s head, her arms encircling him, “I love you too Adrien,” she whispered.

“Always.” 

Nathalie sighed as her head hit the pillow, a hint of a soft smile forming on her lips, her gaze following the delicate sway of her bedroom’s ceiling fan.  She still couldn’t fully grasp the day’s events.

Her maternal love for Adrien had taken a secure presence in her mind, throwing her off balance from everything she had thought she knew. For over the past decade the Agreste family has been a key part of her life — a constant. She cared for all of them and although she was bound by the constraints of an employer, she couldn’t deny the connection she felt. She wondered — based on what had occurred if it was possible that they felt the same way. Did they truly consider her as part of the family? And if they did what did that entail for their future?

In the beginning, before she had even started working for the Agreste’s, Emilie had been the one Nathalie confided in. For her, Emilie had been a sister. Her first remnant of anything remotely related to a family. Losing Emilie had torn Nathalie apart, like withered fabric. Yet she saw her everywhere — the whole house, everything was her. The kitchenette, the dining room, Adrien’s room, Gabriel’s room, Gabriel’s office, the atrium, the lair — everywhere. Even so, with her presence so fully embedded into the Agreste household, Nathalie couldn’t hold back her grief, which was all the more reason she needed to help Gabriel. 

Thoughts of Emilie, in turn, always led her mind to Gabriel — a man who’s determination and compassion coursed effortlessly through him, as if instilled in his bloodstream. The qualities of which she was enthralled by, all possessed by one singular person whom she admired wholeheartedly. 

Although, she had to admit that something foreign ignited within her when it came to Gabriel. The small fragments of time in which their eyes met — whether in the concealed shadows of the atrium or in the midst of a battle against Ladybug and Chat Noir — time seemed to cease and she couldn’t help but think that she was more — more than just a measly assistant, perhaps even family. And although she may not be an Agreste that did not diminish the fact that she belonged to them.

Gabriel was so kind to her, in spite of his standoffish nature. He didn’t even argue when she told him of Adrien’s plans to attend his friend's party. He merely gave the boy a curfew and told him to have fun, which was certainly unexpected but kind nonetheless.

And if she were being honest, the more time she spent pondering this, the more she felt other feelings begin to surface, feelings that resided in the nooks and crannies of her brain.

Is it possible that what Duusu had suggested could actually hold some truth? For one thing, it wasn't particularly idealized as normal for one to care for their boss to the extent at which Nathalie did for hers. She had thought it to be due to their long lasting friendship and even now all those emotions that came over her whenever they shared a look, or simply brushed a hand, wasn't that all just her deep admiration for a man who was so fervently devoted to his wife?

Or was it something else? 

What did people call it when they felt like they were constantly on the edge of their seat — waiting to let go? The feeling of butterflies was too light of a term, in fact akuma’s would be better for when she sought out these feelings.  All it brought on her was concentrated ambivalence. 

Her loyalty to Gabriel stemmed farther than she ever thought it would. He was her colleague, yet he was her friend and also he was the one person who made her feel.

All her life she fought for herself — fought to work, fought to thrive — Gabriel had given her a job — a life — and showed her what living looked like. Nathalie. Mayura. She got to experience it all, with him by her side, his once infectious smile there to guide her. 

She wouldn’t risk giving him up for anything — no matter how selfish that desire made her. Her feelings concerning Gabriel were as much a part of her as anything else and at last she finally knew what those feelings meant.

Without any warning, as if jostled from an unsettling dream, Nathalie bolted upright in her bed, a cold sweat intruding down the back of her neck and up the start of her hairline. She could feel the erratic thump of her heart against her ribcage and she knew she could no longer bury it, for hearts did not beat with no purpose. 

Even if Gabriel did not feel for her as she did for him, she knew that she had to try.

She had to try because she was in love with Gabriel Agreste. 

In fact, she was utterly, irrevocably smitten.

A/N: Sorry for any grammatical errors. I edited this late at night, but hopefully it turned out semi-good. Anyways, thank you all for reading! I hope you enjoyed chapter three of Admiration in Disguise! And as always if you have any gabenath fanfic requests let me know!

[ascalonianlightbringer]

Last time on the liveblog, I wrapped up the "Down the Hatch" phase of the Order of Whispers initiation proper/rescue of Demmi Beetlestone. After meeting Demmi at the Order's safehouse, Gwen decided to use the tracking spell on Demmi's necklace to misdirect Demmi's pursuers with a decoy. Demmi's mesmer godmother, a major figure in the Order, declared she'd cast the disguise spell on ... Tybalt.

Next up, we found Gwen and Tybalt in Lion's Arch, and Tybalt saying "Time for me to get pretty."

Tybalt <333

He was a bit taken aback that the spell worked and he had hands and "apples" (lmao, but Charr are so low on sexual dimorphism that it actually makes sense that this would be weird for him). Gwen basically told him to focus and go wander about the city and see if the Ministry guards would take the bait and pursue him. He was ready to do it, though Gwen wanted to make sure he understood the danger; if the guards couldn't capture "Demmi," they'd kill her, meaning Tybalt.

<3

I really enjoy how the Order of Whispers arc mixes comedy, the mechanics of the story, and then more serious character moments like this. I've seen people say that Tybalt is beloved because he's funny, but there's a lot more to him and what makes him so endearing.

Tybalt went on that fighting dragons would require the support of Kryta, which meant keeping Queen Jennah in power, which meant him, a Charr, risking his life to secure the human throne.

Canonically, the PC replies "The world's a funny place, Lightbringer. As long as we keep laughing, I guess we're not dead."

That's not wildly OOC for Gwen or anything—in fact, I can easily see her saying it to evade the human-Charr discussion—but the fact that she's human and Ascalonian makes it very possible for her to respond differently. I can see her response being more uneasy, say, but much less wary/privately hostile as before. It might be a deliberately neutral "It's certainly unusual. Are you sure you're prepared to risk it?"

Or her own distaste for the monarchy might factor in. I suspect that's on the back burner for now, though, and she wouldn't want to betray her own dissent to anyone she doesn't fully trust.

As a bonus, the AU response would fit Tybalt's response really well: "The order gave me a mission, and I'm not turning back now. I can do this. Trust me!"

Again, he has to insist on his trustworthiness. I think even Gwen, for all her biases, has become aware that it's a tender spot and feels some uncomfortable compassion. It's not hard to guess that someone, somewhere—maybe multiple someones—didn't trust him. She could even remember him describing himself as "a broken-down engineer" and wonder if it has to do with that. Maybe he doesn't fully trust himself, but while she doesn't fully trust him ethically, he would strike her as perfectly competent.

Anyway, they started walking through the city. Tybalt was weirded out by not having a tail to balance with, and talked himself up a bit. He told Gwen that if this ever had to happen again, she'd be the one transformed. Fair! And in-story, it would make somewhat more sense for Gwen, a human woman from Divinity's Reach, to pass as Demmi—but it'd be much less funny :P

Tybalt and Gwen were attacked by various Ministry Guards who were definitely deceived by the disguise (as a mesmer main, I do love that everyone in the story seems to perpetually underestimate what we can do!). The fights weren't hard, though, and they reached the docks intact and met with the captain taking "Demmi" away.

He pretty openly hit on "her," to Tybalt's discomfort, though I do appreciate how he put it:

Gwen assured him that he'd be okay despite his concern at being disguised as a human woman and alone at sea with sailors (certainly suggests something about Tyrian gender relations). Both the ferocity and charm options were pretty asinine, so unusually, I went with dignity for her, and Gwen assured him that Demmi is a Krytan noble and her status/reputation would protect him. He agreed to lean into it "and remind them who my daddy is. Heh."

That seemed properly espionage-y, and Gwen told the captain to give Demmi some space.

And that was that phase!

[afishdrowning]

I've noticed lately several follows and mutuals going through some shit, so this is a reply to everyone as much as to OP.

If you don't mind my speaking about any potential intention you may have in a raw manner, you've got millions of years of evolution behind you driving you to keep living as long as you're able, so there's no sense framing the insurmountable wall of "survivor instinct" as something that requires bravery to overcome.

Additionally, most attempts are more likely to maim you than "get the job done" per se; it's statistically better you don't try.

That aside, I'm so sorry you're going through such a time that leads you to say and mean this.

I wish I had good advice. I feel doubly at a loss: first because I want to give you the encouraging words you might need to hear, as anyone would; second—and this is the part that fucks with me—because I remember feeling and saying this—distinctly—and I'm still struggling to know what to say even with that experience behind me.

Maybe because there are no "right words" to unlock the "Give Depressed Person Hope" achievement. I certainly couldn't think of what I wanted to hear from anyone in those moments.

But do know that you are heard. This is SHIT, and I wish you weren't suffering because of it. You are not alone experiencing the miserable bog that is function-destroying depression.

For me, it ended. It took longer than I wished it would, and in my case, it took removing myself from a particular source of pain (a person) that I didn't even realize at the time was such a contributing factor. Mine was largely situational, and it took a long time for that situation to change in a way that was more healthy for me. But I did get through.

Obligatory therapist mention here. I think here on Tumblr, at least in my curated circle, people are generally open to therapy; the paywall tends to be the block. I managed to get professional help by showing up at an emergency intake clinic. The doc recognized that my depression's cause was situational, but she gave me a major depressive disorder diagnosis so she could get me the help she knew I needed and couldn't otherwise afford. (She did end up later diagnosing me with what was then called dysthymia, now called persistent depressive disorder.) It was my first proper introduction into analyzing and adjusting my own thought patterns (which didn't help my situation, of course, but did help me prevent my mind from making it worse than it needed to be by internalizing a lot of shit), and for getting some coping mechanisms for dealing with what I couldn't (at that time) change.

The stupid small things do help: checking in throughout the day to make sure I'm actually taking deep breaths, focusing on physical sensations when my emotions are either overwhelming or nonexistent, stepping outside for even a few minutes, getting out and moving (not exertion, just letting the blood flow a bit), stretching, sleeping, etc.

Freewriting as a brain dump was my hack to be able to fall asleep. It was as if, once my thoughts were all on paper, my brain went, "Oh, that's the paper's job now," and could actually chill out long enough for me to find some rest.

Reading, especially fiction, helped me get out of my own head for a little while. It gave my brain something to chew on in a way that watching video just can't. Even if reality was waiting for my return, the small breaks from thought were a needed rest.

These kinds of things didn't always work every time, but they worked often enough that I'm compelled to recommend them. I don't know if they'll help you specifically, but I want to offer them anyway.

I'm so sorry it's hell. It probably doesn't feel possible now, but things do change.

I don't know what else to say, but...

I hear you.

🫂

Wish I wasn’t such a coward. Wish I was brave enough to just kill myself.

[atticuswritesstuff]

Chrollo with a smarty pants/genius darling who acts out or tries to escape just because they’re bored/understimulated?

Author's note: I actually really fucking love this prompt so I am SUPER excited for this one. I too get very bored/understimulated often. Sorry, I got to it late cuz I just got back from a Montana trip!

Yandere!Chrollo x Bored!Reader

Summary: Chrollo's darling becomes bored being locked up all the time, decides to take yet another unsupervised trip out of the mansion.

Warnings: Anal/Assplay, overstimulation, punishment, spanking, mentions of blood, mentions of murder, yandere themes, BDSM themes, degradation

Character Description: afab, she/her use that's it

Word count: 4.5k

Attempt number seven. Seven times you had slipped through his fingers since the beginning of the year alone, each time becoming more and more elaborate.

Chrollo scoffed, storming through the woods, scanner in hand. It was beeping softly, indicating you weren't far.

It wasn't like you made any attempt to escape discreetly, jamming a fork into the neck of one of Chrollo's guards, puncturing his jugular before you made your way through the garden to the edge of the forest. As Chrollo watched a recording of it from the cameras, he was shocked at how nonchalantly you stabbed him before calmly walking off. If you had intended to run far, you weren't moving very fast.

The tracker started beeping a little faster now. He was getting closer.

The early April air was nipping at his cheeks, he couldn't fathom how you were out here in your pajamas, barefoot at that. Chrollo was more worried about you than just finding you. While your previous attempts had been clever, methodical, and downright genius, this time was very different to him. As far as he knew, you'd never killed anyone, and now you had decided to not only kill someone but patiently wait for him to be unfocused before sneaking upon him. You planned this.

Chrollo walked a couple more meters, finding the tracker was leading him to the nearby lake. When he came to the forest's edge, he could see you sitting at the edge of the dock, staring up at the moon.

You heard him approaching as soon as he broke through the treeline, it took him a bit longer to retrieve you than expected, although you attributed that to him thinking you were going to try and run far. A couple miles from the house wasn't necessarily far for a commoner, but this was farther than you'd ever been allowed.

Chrollo's heavy footsteps walked the length of the dock, stopping right behind you. He knew you would come quietly, after the first few times, you'd stopped escaping to try and get away, instead, you found the chase to be much more thrilling.

"Time to go, darling," He hummed nonchalantly.

"Five more minutes," You replied, swishing your feet through the near-freezing water, "The moon is so pretty tonight, wouldn't you agree?"

Chrollo gazed down at you, you were surprisingly clean considering you'd just stabbed someone. Not a single drop of blood on you anywhere. The only thing shielding you from the cold being a thin cami and a shamefully short pair of shorts.

Chrollo always admired your body, but the pajamas were a nice touch. They were a recent purchase, baby blue fabric with white lace trim, god how he wanted to tear the set off you.

"I didn't think you'd have it in you to take a man's life, darling," Chrollo stated.

"I didn't either," You chuckled, "But it's done now."

"Why not just sneak away?" He replied, sitting on the dock next to you, "He was unfocused, you could've done it easily if this was where you intended to go all along."

"You're right, I didn't have to kill him," You sighed, bringing one of your feet onto the dock, "I just wanted to see if I could. You left an anatomy book on your desk, I found the major arteries of the body to be very interesting."

"Now that I think about it," You continued, "Maybe I should've run farther, seeing you so desperately trying to find me is rather amusing."

“You enjoy being chased like a rabbit?” Chrollo mused.

“Believe it or not the thrill is more exciting than anything you’ve ever gifted to me,” You scoffed, “At least running gave me something to do that required thought. Something you seem to forget to provide.”

Poking at Chrollo’s care tactics wasn’t smart, but you didn’t know how else to get through to him that your current environment was extremely understimulating, and that you needed more. You could tell he was growing upset, but he wouldn’t dare show it outside of the house.

You pulled your knee to your chest, resting your cheek against it, "Do I have to go back?"

"Of course you do, darling," Chrollo replied, a warm hand rubbing up and down your back, "Why wouldn't you?"

You scoffed, "Probably because being a prisoner of marble and glass is dreadfully boring."

Chrollo's hand stopped, "You think the life I've worked so hard to build is boring?"

"Yup," You replied flatly, "Honestly I thought you kidnapping me would be a lot more fun, but it's even more boring than my old life."

Chrollo was becoming angrier with each word that came out of your mouth.

"Don't get me wrong, I know how hard you try, but my god I don't know how you stand it. You're sweet and all, but you're gonna bore me to death sooner or later, escaping actually gives me something to do," You hummed, pulling your other foot out of the water, "Anyways, we can go back now, this chase was more boring than I expected."

You rose from your place, turning to walk back to your cage. It took Chrollo a minute to get up and follow you, partially from the shock of your completely arrogant and nonchalant demeanor. The person you had become over the past two years almost reminded him of a certain magician he once knew.

Chrollo eyed you as your hips swayed, every muscle in your leg flexing and relaxing as you walked. It was something he adored about you, before he took you, you were one of your tribe's best, strongest dancers. The way you swayed and glided while you did the most basic of tasks was alluring to him. Now, he just watched you sit around and observe everything.

The view from walking behind you wasn't necessarily bad, though. Your pajama shorts gave him a nice view of your ass as you walked.

Sauntering through the woods, you could no longer hide how cold you were, the incessant shivering and blue tint to your skin proved that fact. Your feet even more so from being in the water.

You knew Chrollo was upset with what you'd said, you could tell immediately, but keeping the truth from him wasn't an option anymore. You had started to care for him some time ago. You really appreciated him, but god if he didn't allow you to do something you were going to lose your mind.

When you could just barely make out the edges of the garden approaching, you stopped mid-path, "Chrollo?"

He caught up to you in an instant, "Yes, darling?"

"I don't want to go back if I have to live like this," You felt tears well up in your eyes, "Please."

His hands found your hips, "Live like what? Talk to me darling, how can I make it better?"

"I don't want to just sit around and wait for you to come back. I'm tired of you being at my beck and call. O-Or just fucking sitting around waiting for you to come back," You felt a solemn tear roll down your cheek, "It's so fucking boring. Please just take me with you or give me something I can do for you or-"

"Darling," He cut you off with a firm hand over your mouth, the other still settled on your hip. He shushed you softly, lessening the pressure on your mouth, "Don't panic, I'm listening. I promise I'm hearing you, just speak slowly alright?"

You nodded, he took his hand off your mouth slowly, "Keep going, what can I do to help you?"

You thought about it, more tears spilling down your cheeks, "Take me with you. Don't leave me by myself anymore. I just want to be useful."

Scooping you up bridal style as he headed towards the garden, "I understand. Even in your old life, you were always helping others, weren't you?"

You nodded, wrapping your arms around his neck and tucking your head into him. Closing your eyes, you breathed in his scent, trying to commit it to memory.

Chrollo's feet hit the marble floors of the hallway that led into the house, you could feel his warmth returning as he carried you inside.

"While I understand your frustrations, you did try to escape my love," He started, bringing you into your shared bedroom, "And that requires a punishment."

You winced, shaking your head against him, "Please, not again! I'm really sorry Sir I can do better-"

"No," He shushed you, setting you on the foot of the bed, "I have the solution to your problem, but only if you take your punishment, alright?"

You nodded slightly, your tear-stained cheeks slightly puffy and red from the cold.

"Alright," He purred, his hands rubbing up and down your shoulders, "I'll try to make this at least somewhat pleasant for you, ok?"

You nodded once again, finding comfort in the fact that he was at least going to please you.

"Lay back for me," He stated, pushing you back by your shoulders, "I'll be right back."

You stared up at the ceiling in anticipation, the last punishment was hard enough, but you couldn't pass up the opportunity to finally get out of the house. Chrollo had returned from the closet, setting something on the bench at the foot of the bed. He took off his shirt before crawling over you.

"You know what your punishment is, right?" He asked, a face cupping your cheek.

You nodded, "Yes, Sir."

"Good girl," He whispered, leaning down to give you the softest of kisses, just barely ghosting over your lips as he pulled the knife out of his back pocket.

Pressing it to your throat, you froze, knowing it had already begun.

"Just focus on me, darling," Chrollo whispered against your lips, "I won't cut you."

He kissed you once more, harder this time as he slowly dragged the knife down your neck. It was a 50/50 chance he would intentionally cut you, even if he said he wouldn't. It was the only thing he'd ever lied to you about, knowing that made your heart race.

His tongue invaded your mouth as he slid the knife down your chest, coming back up to cut your bralette off in between your breasts. You didn't even register the pain from him grazing you with the knife until it started throbbing.

You looked down, seeing a thin line of blood-forming directly in between your breasts.

"Whoops," he chuckled, gazing down at the same mark you were. He sat up, straddling your hips and now pinning you to the bed by your throat. Your bare chest tempted him to carve his name into your breasts, then you'd really know who you belonged to. Chrollo briefly cut the straps of your bralette, allowing the flimsy fabric to fall away, revealing your breasts to him.

Setting the knife aside, Chrollo dragged his nails down your chest, briefly squeezing your waist before leaning down to press open-mouthed kisses all over your neck. He trailed downwards, backing off the bed as he kissed your waist, your breasts, swirling his tongue around each of your nipples lightly before backing off entirely.

"Turn over," Chrollo demanded.

"No." You said timidly, propping yourself up on your elbows.

"I'm sorry?" Chrollo replied smugly, "Wanna repeat that, darling?"

"I said n-no," You said, now even quieter than before.

"No? You don't want to be punished?" He asked, his hands rubbing up and down your thighs teasingly.

You shook your head to confirm that you indeed did not want to be punished in the way he was thinking.

"Even after killing my guard and escaping? You sure you don't want to be punished?" He asked again, his condescending tone making you whimper as you shook your head again.

Chrollo sighed, "Very well."

What? He's serious?

Untying the bandana from his forehead, he was quick to grab your hands and tie them together, placing them above your head, "I'll please you since I know that's what you really want."

Your heart jumped in your chest, somehow excited at the fact that you had gotten out of it.

Chrollo wasted no time cutting your shorts off, leaving you completely naked and exposed to him. He brought your legs up to the edge of the bed, bending them close to your chest, "Stay like this for a moment, ok?"

You gave him brief 'mhm' before he left, crossing the room to his chest of drawers. You heard him open it, the soft sound of things being moved around before he quickly came back. Craning your neck up to see what had been retrieved, you were quickly thwarted by Chrollo who pushed your head back down.

"Patience," He sighed, "Be a good girl now, hm?"

You grumbled, but let him hold you down. You knew this routine all too well, reminiscing about the fond memories of your legs pulling against the rope he was now starting to tie around your ankles. He took the time to tie up each leg, making sure they would not be able to come out of the bent position he'd placed them in.

"So pretty," Chrollo cooed, rubbing his hands up and down your waist, "Alright darling, eyes closed."

You shut your eyes as he brought a blindfold to your eyes, the soft silk being tied around the back of your head.

"There, now that you can't fight me," He started, using brute force to flip you over so you were bent over the edge of the bed, knees on the bench, "We can begin your punishment."

"That's not fair Si-"

A sharp smack was delivered to your ass, "Hush."

You went quiet, whimpering into the plush comforter.

"You"

Smack.

"Broke"

Smack.

"My"

Smack.

"Rules"

Each word was punctuated by a harsh spanking to one of your ass cheeks. You were only four in and it already stung.

"I'm sorry!" You cried, trying to wriggle away from Chrollo, "Please Sir!"

"Mm, please what darling? Please punish you?" He hummed, rubbing your bottom with smooth circles.

"Nuh!" You whined, your voice becoming whinier under the threat of fully submitting.

"I told you I would please you, but only if you took your punishment like a good girl," Chrollo hummed, leaving a kiss on each cheek, "Do you really expect me to please you when you're not going to comply darling?"

You whined, wiggling a bit more.

"What do good girls say, darling?" Chrollo asked, softly rubbing your arched back.

"P-please," You huffed.

"Please what, love?" He replied, quietly undoing the bottle of lube he had brought to the bed.

"Please punish me," You whispered, "Sir."

"That's my good girl," He hummed.

Chrollo squirted a bit of lube onto his first two fingers, letting it warm a bit before bringing them to your ass. Mewling as Chrollo started rubbing your puckered hole, he wasted no time plunging a digit into your ass.

"Fuck!" You cried out, feeling him slipping in and out up to his first knuckle. You shook against the rope.

"Aww, if I didn't know any better I'd say you were starting to enjoy this." He teased, pushing his finger up to his second knuckle, "You're taking me so well, I can only imagine how well you're going to do later."

You gave him a long, drawn-out moan in response. He wanted you to beg, either for more or for him to stop, either way, he wanted you to be a mess.

The discomfort started to fade as he pushed his two fingers fully into you. Now, you could feel your arousal dripping as he steadily finger-fucked your ass, trying to stretch you out best he could with just two fingers.

"Already taking my fingers so well," Chrollo cooed, picking up the pace, "I think you're ready to be punished, don't you?"

You shook your head, knowing what would come next.

"Oh come now, don't be like that darling." He replied, slowly pulling his fingers from your tight hole.

You whined at the loss of contact, while it wasn't quite the pleasure you wanted, it was starting to feel good. You waited patiently as Chrollo left the bed, finding the necessary tools needed in his bedside drawer before coming back to the bench.

In one hand, he held a set of purple anal beads that gradually got bigger, in the other, a vibrating wand he fully intended on using on you. While the vibrator wasn't ever used during a punishment, Chrollo saw it to be a mercy for your honesty, therefore, he would keep his word, making his punishment at least somewhat pleasurable for you.

"Tonight's going to be a bit different, love," Chrollo started, setting the vibrator on the bench, he began covering the anal beads in a generous amount of lube, "I need you to trust me, ok?"

You didn't know what he meant by different, you assumed more painful, but knew that there would be no pleasure without pain, "I trust you."

"Good," He hummed, rubbing the first ball against your lubed hole, "You ready?"

Your faint 'mhm' had Chrollo pushing the first ball in, earning a whimper from you. It wasn't much bigger than Chrollo's finger, but you could still feel it. Mere seconds later, he was pushing the second ball in, the equivalent to a little more than two of his fingers.

You were quietly whimpering and mewling into the comforter, hoping he wouldn't hear how much you were enjoying the slow stretch.

"I need your hands," Chrollo announced, pulling you firmly upward by your shoulders, "Put them here."

He shoved your arms down toward your pussy before pushing you back down on your chest. Before, your hands had been resting on the comforter above your head. Now, they were firmly squished between your thighs. You felt Chrollo press something round into your hands before tying your wrists up. Mid-tie, he readjusted the foreign object to rest against your clit.

The vibrator.

You began to squirm a little bit, knowing that this is what he meant by tonight being a little different. You waited patiently as he tied the ropes tight, making sure you wouldn't be able to move it away, then he turned it on.

"Ah...oh fuck," You moaned, the vibrator already working to make you come undone, "Sir.."

Your moans were becoming more sultry, needier, you began panting as your legs worked up to a steady shake, he knew he would break you tonight at this rate.

"See? I told you I would please you," Chrollo hummed, pushing the next ball in, you cried out even louder, "You have permission to cum whenever you'd like."

Knowing this was going to make it a lot harder, he wanted you to submit, to break, "D..Da-Ah!"

You were stuttering as the next ball was pushed in, your asshole stretching around it.

"What was that? I don't think I heard you, princess," Chrollo teased.

"Daddy!" You wailed, giving into the submission he so desperately wanted. Your pussy began fluttering around nothing as the vibrator sent deep shock waves through your pussy, "Please!"

"Please what, princess?" He smiled, palming your ass cheeks.

"Please punish me!" You moaned, needing more stimulation, "I'm sorry I tried to escape! I've been a bad girl!"

The sight of you writhing under him was pathetic, you were truly becoming a mess and he hadn't even really touched you. Seeing how hard you were trembling, Chrollo took pity on you. Watching your pretty pussy clench and release, needing some form of stimulation, he decided to at least grant you this mercy.

Plunging two fingers into your dripping hole, he crooked his fingers, quickly finding your g-spot, "Is this what my darling needs?"

"Yes! Oh, fu-fuck please daddy!" You moaned, fucking yourself on his fingers, "Gonna cum!"

"You have permission princess, it's ok," Chrollo reaffirmed, working his fingers inside you.

It only took seconds, the knot that had been building inside you finally burst, causing you to clench around his fingers. The vibrator held firm against your clit after, the pleasure becoming painful. You started to cry through the blindfold.

Chrollo licked the mess off his fingers before slowly starting to pull the anal beads out one by one. You whined and whimpered as he did so, the action only causing you to clench to avoid feeling empty. It did nothing, Chrollo continued to pull the remaining few beads out, your asshole gaping slightly

"Mm, you're doing so well baby," Chrollo sighed, pulling his own pants down. Pumping his cock a few times before rubbing the crown of it up and down your slick.

"Daddy! D-Don't do that!" You whined, trying to pull away from his ministrations.

"What? This?" Chrollo asked innocently, repeating the action.

You lost it, cumming on the spot as the tip ghosted over your pussy, your shame covered your face in a heavy blush. It barely took anything for you to cum with the stupid vibrator continuing to buzz against your clit at the highest setting.

"S-Sorry daddy.." you slurred, still trembling as you felt your mind go blank.

"Aww, is my baby that much of a cock drunk little slut?" Chrollo teased, pressing the tip of his painfully erect cock into your ass, "I know you are, my pretty little darling wanted to be punished this whole time, huh?"

You heard him, but could barely form enough of a sentence to answer.

Chrollo pushed into you slowly, relishing in the tightness of your ass, your gummy walls fluttering around him as you were overstimulated. The feeling of being full had your tongue lolling out of your mouth.

Once fully seated inside you, Chrollo slowly dragged his nails along your back before palming your ass. Pulling your ass cheeks apart with his thumbs, he gave a few long, slow thrusts, watching the way you clenched around his cock.

"Fuck," Chrollo moaned, "I almost don't even want to punish you with the way this tight little ass wraps around my cock."

You could only moan in response, trembling as he continued his tortuously slow pace.

"How many spankings do you think you'll receive from tonight's actions, princess?" Chrollo halted, only halfway inside as his hands trailed upwards along your outer thighs, "I think forty is a good number? What say you, love?"

"Nuh-uh!" You cried, wiggling against his touch as one of his hands left your skin, "Thirty!"

Chrollo chuckled at your offer, "I was originally going to settle for twenty-five, but thirty works for me, darling."

With a crushing force, Chrollo's hand came down.

Smack!

"Count, or I'll start over," Chrollo demanded.

"O-One," You whispered.

His other hand rose while the other soothed the spot he had just spanked.

Smack!

"Two!"

Smack!

"Three," Chrollo's hands were relentless, switching cheeks each time he smacked you in order to give your poor skin a break. He was merciful enough to rub the spot he had spanked before doing it again.

It took minutes to work your way up to the end, you came twice throughout the process as the vibrator held firm against your clit.

Smack!

"Twenty-eight!"

Smack!

"Twenty-nine!"

Smack!

"Th-Thirty!" You were sobbing, shaking uncontrollably under the weight of Chrollo's punishment.

"There we go, all done," Chrollo cooed, softly rubbing your cherry-red ass as he set another slow pace, "You did so well for me, darling."

A warmth grew in your chest, you really did enjoy being praised by Chrollo, even if it was after a punishment with his dick in your ass. He enjoyed it too, loving the way you clenched around his cock each time he spanked you, it took a lot of focus to not cum mid punishment.

You were writhing the pressure in your core already starting to build again, your trembling never stopped, even throughout your punishment. Chrollo kept up his word to please you, but god at what cost?

"I want you to cum for me again, angel," Chrollo hummed, his hands finding your waist as he began picking up the pace, "I want to absolutely ruin you."

"No no no! Daddy, I can't!" You sobbed, knowing you would be doing more than just cumming if this kept up.

"Oh? Is my princess trying to hide the pretty mess I know she can make?" Chrollo asked, knowing what you were implying.

Grabbing the knife, he cut the ropes from your legs. He rolled your limp form over onto your back, yanking the blindfold off so he could watch as you helped overstimulate yourself. With one arm by your head to support himself, he guided his cock back into your ass, resuming the brutal pace he set.

You held Chrollo's gaze as he went absolutely feral, drilling your ass while holding one of your legs up over his shoulder. You could barely conceal your tears at this point, broken moans showing him just how bad you needed a break, but he was intent on making you squirt before he stopped.

"I know you need this," Chrollo purred, pressing his forehead to yours, "Just give in to my love, your body wants this."

You started to shake harder, legs trembling even more aggressively, he was pushing you to the edge.

"Fuck! Da...Daddy," You groaned, knowing you were only seconds away, "Kiss me, p-please."

Pulling you into his lips as you came, your screams and cries muffled against Chrollo's lips as you drenched his cock and thighs with your cum. You barely registered the feeling of his cock throbbing as he filled your ass with cum. It took several seconds for your orgasm to stop before you were finally able to collapse back onto the bed.

Chrollo was quick to shut the vibrator off as he pulled out, knowing your body had enough. He admired the way his cum began slowly trickling out of your ass while he untied your hands.

"You did so well, darling," Chrollo praised, leaving soft kisses on the inside of your calf, "So so good."

His kisses trailed upwards, his lips softly tickling your thighs as he caressed them. He continued upward with his continued praise and love, making sure each part of you had received some form of physical attention before kissing you passionately.

You were still panting, your heart thrumming in your ears as he brushed your hair away from your face. At least he held true to his word.

With your hands now free, you pulled him in for another kiss, wanting to stay enveloped in his warmth forever.

"So, my little brat," He started, interlacing his fingers with yours, "Was this enough of a cure for your boredom?"

You giggled, giving him a weak smile, "It was, but as I recall, you mentioned what sounded like a more long-term solution to this problem."

"Ah, that," Chrollo sighed, rolling over next to you. You turned on your side the best you could as he gazed up at the ceiling, "I was thinking you could officially become a spider."

Your breath hitched in your throat, "You mean like part of the phantom-troupe?"

"Yes," He replied curtly, "You'd be with me all day every day, same rules apply, but it would give you a chance to use that intelligence of yours."

You grinned, thinking it over, "Sure, why not?"

[lavendertales]

Heya luv I know I just sent a request the other day but I’ve been dying to see how you’ll write this.

Frankie x shy!wife!reader doing it for the first time. I don’t see a lot of shy readers and I’d just love to see how Frankie would comfort them and reassure them.

Bonus if Reader is a little insecure about their body.

Thanks <3

Hi, love, don't you worry. I got you 😘

pairing: Frankie Morales x f!reader**

word count: 1.3k

warnings: cunnilingus, soft Frankie & reader (plus insecure!reader), allusions to sexy time implied. 18+ ONLY!!!

gif: @lordsmaxwell 

Going into a full-on committed relationship wasn’t easy, and it required much effort and compromise, but what makes it feel like it’s piece of cake is a partner who’s on the same page as you. And Frankie Morales is one gem of a man.

He’s been through his fair share of heartbreak and pain and so have you, but together you navigated through the ups and downs of newly found partnership and gave each other space and time to adjust to it all. Time flew by and before you knew it, you found yourself ecstatic when Frankie proposed to you. Needless to say, you accepted and began planning your wedding.

All things considered, your relationship with Frankie blossomed into a beautiful, trustworthy one. You knew everything about each other, you were there for each other and loved each other unconditionally.

But there’s one aspect of it that made you restless: being physical.

Early on, you sat Frankie down and began explaining to him how you felt and why it was a touchy subject for you, and he listened and simply sat there with you, cuddling you until you fell asleep. Not once did he push you or pressure you, and he said he’s more than happy to wait until the timing felt right.

The timing couldn’t be more right than your wedding night.

There you are, palms sweaty with nervousness as you browse through your little bag that you packed for the week and select the fanciest and most attractive underwear. Not that it mattered anyway, you figured it would be gone within the first few minutes, but you wanted to do your best to look as good and as confident as possible. That wasn’t always easy

So you put on the lingerie set, took one last look in the mirror – and that’s when it hit you. The more you looked at yourself the tougher it gets to be confident. God, this is the last thing you need right now. It’s your wedding night, the start of your honeymoon and your new life with Frankie, you don’t need this aggravation right now.

But it happens anyway. It unfolds within seconds and soon the only thing you end up liking about yourself is your hair. Not much to go on.

“Wow.”

Frankie’s voice makes you turn around and before you can reply anything, he notices the discontent on your face and instantly gets worried.

“What’s wrong?”

He takes your hands in his, searching your face for an answer. You shake your head, a thousand and one thoughts swimming inside your head and not one positive.

“We don’t have to do anything if you don’t feel like it,” he tells you.

“But it’s our wedding night and – “

“And what? We can… postpone it for another night. We have two weeks to ourselves, there’s no rush.”

You soften upon hearing his words and you realize that it’s probably ridiculous to feel that way when Frankie has always loved you exactly as you are. But you can’t help it.

“It’s not that I don’t want to,” you confess. “I do, I – I really… really do. But I’m feeling… a little too self-conscious to think this night is gonna be the steamiest and sexiest one.”

Frankie looks at you in disbelief, yet you see a spark of determination in his eyes. He pulls you in close and you shiver under his touch.

“Do you trust me?” he asks.

“Yes, of course I do.”

“Then if you are absolutely sure you want to do this, will you let me make you feel good?”

Something about that sentence sparks arousal in you, reignites the flame that had burned inside of you for quite a long time. You nod, excitement prickling at your skin.

Without any further ado, Frankie signals you to get on the bed and he crawls atop of you, kissing you slowly yet deeply. You grant him access to your mouth and soon to your whole body as your legs seem to naturally part to make room for him in between them.

Your body starts to heat up and Frankie’s lips travel to your neck, sucking on a particular spot that makes you tremble and gush beneath him. He likes what he hears, very much so, and he proceeds to move his attention to your breasts, fondling them sweetly.

“I like this color on you,” he murmurs, lips pressing a chaste kiss on your sternum. “And I like this set, too.”

“Y-You do?”

Gosh, you can barely speak and you take that as a great sign of his ministrations over you. His fingers move to your back to unclasp the bra and you wiggle a little to allow it to be removed from your body. You see Frankie downright admiring you and your self-consciousness returns.

“I know it’s tough sometimes, baby,” he whispers, pressing kisses to your breasts, “but you don’t have to worry about that, not with me.”

You can only whimper and tug at Frankie’s hair. “Because you’re gorgeous,” he continues. “Absolutely gorgeous. Amazing, incredible.”

He moves the wet trail of kisses to your abdomen and lower belly and huffs when he reaches your lower half. You see him biting on his lower lip and that awakens something inside you. He goes to pull down the panties, sliding them carefully and tossing them away, and you’re finally revealed wholly before him. Frankie drinks in the sight like a man thirsty for days and you almost cannot believe you got to be so lucky with him.

Your breaths become unsteady when Frankie spreads your thighs and is getting ready to dive right in, but stops and looks up to you, a beautifully messed up and eager expression residing on his face.

“Will you let me taste you?” he asks.

So casually, so simple and yet it nearly makes you explode. You frantically nod and Frankie smiles reassuringly.

“If you don’t like it or want me to stop, say so.”

Again you nod and watch dumbfounded as Frankie first presses kisses on your inner thigh, taking immense pleasure in the huffs you release. You made a mental note to watch him do all those things, soak up the imagery, but all that is gone the moment his mouth comes in contact with your core.

First, he kisses each portion of it; he lays a soft kiss on your clit, then starts properly lapping at your folds. His tongue glides over them, his mouth a hot furnace that gets you wetter and wetter with each flick of the tongue. Your huffs turn into moans and they drive Frankie insane with lust. He picks up the pace, adding his index into the mix; he curls it ever so slightly and yet its impact thrills you all the same. You start to squirm and lose your sanity, hips jerking up to meet with more of Frankie’s mouth. But he holds you in place, gives you exactly what you want, at the pace you desire and in the end it brings him immense pleasure.

He grows harder with each sound and each impatient movement of yours. You try to warn him, to let him know that your own body is plotting against you and it burns you alive but he doesn’t care. When you cum, his name is on your lips just as his mouth is on the other ones, drinking straight from you like a wine treat, worshipping your body like you were made for him.

When he’s done, you catch a glimpse of his bulge and, to your ease, Frankie starts undressing, eyes locked with yours.

“You’re so damn pretty,” he says. “You’re the prettiest, most beautiful.”

“Frankie – “

“Hold on to that thought. I’m kinda hoping you’ll say my name differently in a little bit.”

For the first time that night, you truly smile, as excited and happy as he is. Insecurities and fears can wait; tonight belongs to you and him.

permanent Pedro crew:

@doin-stuff @pedro-pastel @acourtofsnakes @wild-at-heart-kept-in-cage @beskarboobs @rosiefridayrogersunday @boxdyeblonde @imcalledflorence @casssiopeia @sleep-tight1 @pasckles @northernpunk @wantingpedropascal @evelynseventyr @itssmashedavo @phoenixhalliwell @elegantduckturtle @mylifeinthetardisforever @ohhersheybars @kingsqueensandvagabonds @greeneyedblondie44 @sebbys-girl @mrsparknuts @hnt-escape @hayley-the-comet @spideysimpossiblegirl @lsphoenix @kirsteng42 @lunaemss @goldielocks2004 @diogodxlot @queridopascal @gracie7209 @floraandfrost @mejswho @dobbyjen @janebby @what-iwish-you-knew @jedi-jesi @kaqua @datenshi666 @stevie75 @ezras-channel-rat @for-my-satisfaction @quica-quica-quica @mishasminion360 @eri16 @lovesbiggerthanpride @xaestheticalien @grandfanficstation @mrsudontknowme @hello-i-am-daydreaming @mando-s-wife @pastamomma @midwesternwitchery @headinthestarz @drreidsconverse @dindjarinneedsahug @captainjaspenor @pscalwhiskey @1800-fight-me @phandoz @amneris21

requests are open!

[009720kakashi]

shinobinvku

𝐓𝐇𝐄𝐘'𝐑𝐄 𝐁𝐎𝐓𝐇 𝐒𝐈𝐓𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐎𝐍 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐑𝐎𝐎𝐅𝐓𝐎𝐏 𝐎𝐅 𝐒𝐇𝐈𝐍𝐘𝐀'𝐒 𝐀𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐓𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓.His elder half-sister, Haruka, runs the local izakaya on the first floor and happens to be his landlord, which means they have the luxury of bottomless sake and a quiet hangout spot with fantastic views of the Hidden Leaf Village whenever they want.

He’s been trying to invite the Copy Ninja out for sake for a long time but always gets turned down, claiming that he rarely drinks. Shinya usually finds it suspicious when a shinobi refuses to drink socially, as though they have something to hide. What sort of secrets is he holding onto? Shinya wonders.

❝ Aha, but what if I said I preferred you this way? A much more honest version of yourself. ❞ He chuckles, topping off Kakashi’s glass again.

❝ That’s the beauty of alcohol, my friend. It has the capability of revealing the truth. ❞

Shinya isn’t joking! He has a firm belief that alcohol reveals the truth in others. It stifles reasoning skills and contemplating repercussions. As a result, people are more likely to divulge the truth while intoxicated. Without the fear of consequences, alcohol can give people the courage to do or say things they ordinarily wouldn’t entertain.

After pouring himself another glass, Shinya sets the bottle down on the floor with a content sigh, deciding how to phrase his answer.

❝ Nah. She’s not part of your team but she’s someone you’ve gotten better acquainted with recently. Though, if I’m being honest with you, it’s more of a strong hunch I have about them, and I’m hardly ever wrong about those. I’m just trying to help you out, Hatake. You know, because I’m such a good friend and all? You’ve been tense lately. ❞

Actually, he’s always tense. Kakashi just needs to get laid.

He does not really know why he had agreed to come this time. People usually gave up inviting him eventually. Otsuka had not. Not yet anyway. Today he just was lucky. Kakashi had not been in the mood to go home but was too exhausted to visit Rin and Obito as well. That was rare enough. He tended to drag himself to the graveyard and memorial stone no matter what. Guilt and grief are powerful motivators. Today alcohol is good enough though. However he does slow down the drinking. Kakashi has no intention to get wasted with Otsuka. 

Kakashi’s uncovered eye wanders over the rooftops. t is quite a nice view. 

“Then you are still out of luck” he replies, taking a sip and then pulls up the mask again. Kakashi really does not care what people think of him. 

“Also I sure have many flaws Otsuka but I don’t think I’m dishonest. At least that would be a new reproach I have to add to the list then.”

He does not share a lot. That much is true but he is not dishonest.

“Maa aside from the job required dishonesty that is.” 

Revealing the truth? Sure but not always to anyone’s benefit. It also makes people overshare. Kakashi is a very private person. Even his closest friends and there are not many anyway don’t get him to open up. 

“It’s a nice view…honestly” he says, emphasizing the last word, turning to Otsuka, clearly smirking under the mask. 

Arching his eyebrows he turns to look at the other man.

“You cannot be serious” he says. He knows that ANBU naturally is a bit of a …den of iniquity… . These people face life and death situations constantly and their jobs sure do not allow for regular relationships. They of course mingle among each other. Maybe not necessarily out of romance but also to satisfy physical needs. As long as it does not interfere with their performance during a mission Kakashi does not care. Not even if people in his own team get a bit more ‘friendly’ with each other. He has not hooked up with anyone like that since he joined ANBU. 

“Don’t you think there is enough locker room talk about me already? I’m not sure I need to add my bedroom activity to that.” 

After a moment of silence he turns to Otsuka again.

“You do that?” he asks. Otsuka was a fellow Captain. He really is a little curious now. 

shinobinvku

𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐆𝐇𝐎𝐒𝐓 𝐓𝐈𝐆𝐄𝐑 𝐂𝐀𝐍'𝐓 𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐈𝐒𝐓 𝐋𝐀𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐖𝐇𝐎𝐋𝐄𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐑𝐓𝐄𝐃𝐋𝐘 𝐀𝐓 𝐊𝐀𝐊𝐀𝐒𝐇𝐈'𝐒 𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐏𝐎𝐍𝐒𝐄, resting a hand against the pit of his stomach as though his sides were splitting. Don’t be fooled by his overtly friendly demeanor or judge him by the number of drinks he’s already consumed. Shinya is far from reaching his alcoholic limitations, and if anyone asked, he would say he could drink anyone under the table, including the God of Shinobi himself.

❝ Oh please, don’t act so surprised, Hatake, ❞ Shinya muses sarcastically. ❝ Loads of operatives talk shit behind your back in the locker rooms. It doesn’t help when you have a track record of being the coldest captain in ANBU, but Gods know you could be a lot worse. ❞

Truthfully, Shinya doesn’t think the Copy Ninja is all that bad. Maybe a little too serious for his taste, but he doesn’t mind. Through all the perils he has faced in this Hellish line of work, there is no better captain to have at your side than Hatake Kakashi.

Shinya idly swirls the contents of his sake bottle around before pouring himself another cup. Just as he’s about to take a sip, he hears Kakashi ask him a question and nearly chokes. Admittedly, he hadn’t thought Kakashi heard the last thing he said. Shinya chuckles, clearing his throat as he pours another drink for his comrade.

❝ What? You mean you don’t know? No, I don’t suppose you would. You don’t seem like the type to notice when someone’s attracted to you. Let’s just say that I’ve observed a certain kunoichi has their eye on you. ❞

Hatake Kakashi does not drink often but on rare occasions he does. He is feeling the alcohol already and really should stop. He takes another sip instead. 

“Oh I know that” he snorts.

“Some of the braver ones also whisper to their friends when they think I’m standing too far away to hear them, which is true often enough but…I read every word if I take a look” he says, pointing lazily on the scar right under his left eye where the Sharingan lay hidden behind his eyelid. There is more to the Sharingan than fancy jutsu.

“Maa…that’s why I do not go out drinking Otsuka. I’m already spilling Sharingan secrets to you.”

He stays silent for a moment. What is he supposed to say to that!? Curiosity does get the better of him though.

“Your team or mine? Please don’t tell me it’s mine.” They all work so well together and he really does not need one of his operates distracted because she has a thing for her Captain.

“Or do you mean Yūgao? Yūgao just chose me as her role model apparently which I told her already is a bad idea and she should find someone more suitable for that.”

[chai-ssi-latte]

Prompt 16

Chris Evans

About: Just Chris being jealous about the kind neighbor.

Masterlist | Prompt List | Masterlist (Taylor Swift Songfics)

Send a tip here :) | Donations/Tips are not required but is very much appreciated :> It will help me support myself in uni and my studies :)

Gif not mine :)

“Thank you!” You said as you closed the doors and inhale the smell of the fresh flowers you’re holding. The neighbor had collected all the grown flowers in their yard. While some of them were sold in the market, half of it was distributed in the neighborhood. 

Your neighbor has always been a kind woman. Most of the time, she would drop off lunch and snacks at your house, saying that she made too much. You’re not complaining though, she’s a great cook and every food she gave you and Chris had always tasted amazing.

You made your way towards the kitchen, and taking out a vase from one of the cupboards. “It’s so pretty.” You said while laying down the flowers on the table. Cleaning up the vase, you filled it halfway with water then gently putting in the flowers one by one.

You couldn’t help but admire the colors of the fresh roses she gave you. There were pure whites, some with a hint of pink at the bottom, then there’s deep blood red and bright reds. Beautiful, that’s the only word that came to your mind when she handed it to you.

One vase wasn’t enough for the flowers so picked up two more vases, one smaller than the other so you can put it on the coffee table located in the living room. It’d be nice to have the fake succulent there to have a friend, even for just a few days.

~ ~ ~ ~  ~ ~ ~ ~ ~  ~

“Honey, I’m home!” Chris walked in the home, dropping his bag by the door. I’ll clean that up later, he thought. “Honey!” He called out while slipping off his shoes. Weird. You usually answer right away or even run to give him a hug after his second call.

Chris slumped on the couch, seeing a new vase filled with roses on top of the coffee table. 

Helping out our neighbor for a bit.  I made lasagna if you’re hungry. Love you x

The neighbor again, huh? 

“Well, yes, missy. I am indeed hungry.” Chris mumbled. The smell of fresh roses hit Chris as he walked in the kitchen. How many flowers did the neighbor give today? How hard is he trying to woo my girlfriend?

Chris’ hunger seemed to go away. He made a bee line back to the living room, deciding to just watch a show while he wait for his girlfriend. 

He was halfway through a movie that he didn’t even bother paying attention to when you went home. Chris was constantly looking at the clock hanging on the wall. It has been three hours since he arrive home and you’re still outside. It’s almost 6 in the evening and Chris promised that if you don’t go home by 6:30, he’ll be picking you up. It would be nice to see the neighbor that you keep talking about anyway.

Before the clock hits 6, you walked in. 

“Hey!” You gave Chris a peck on the cheek before going to the bathroom. The sound of water running echoed when Chris turned off the TV. 

“What were you watching?” You asked. You were drying your hands and arms as you sat down next to Chris.

“What’s with the flowers?” was what Chris replied.

“Oh!” Your eyes lit up. “Do you like them? Our neighbor dropped it this afternoon. They’re so pretty, aren’t they?” You brought your face close to the roses and smelled them. “Smells good too.”

“I’ve never met this neighbor. Why is he always giving you stuff?”

You missed the word ‘he’ as you snuggled to Chris’ arms. “I miss youuu...”

“You didn’t answer me.”

“Right, what was it again?” You mumbled. Your eyes getting droopy as you hug Chris tighter. You helped Abby a lot, the neighbor that you happened to catch the name just today; from trimming the plants all the way to sowing the land and planting new seeds. It was fun though, you told Abby that you’ll gladly help her again next time.

“The neighbor...”

“Ah yes. We planted new seeds today. I decided to help ‘cause I was bored.” 

“How come I never met this neighbor.” Chris almost rolled his eyes. Is he hiding from him? Does he even know that Chris Evans is his neighbor?

“You’ll meet Abby soon, for sure. Don’t worry, she’s really kind.”

Chris wanted the couch to swallow him whole. What the f-? Our neighbor is a woman? Stupid, Chris, of course she is! Abby was probably the neighbor that you always passed by watering the plants. Chris thanked God for you being clueless about his jealousy. He would’ve added it to the list of embarrassing things he had done while in this relationship.

“Tell Abby to-” Chris stopped talking when he saw your eyes closed. Your peaceful state and light breathing put a smile on his face. It must have been a long day with Abby. Chris gave you a kiss, picking you up. You stirred a little but fall back asleep quickly. 

What did I do to deserve you? Chris thought as he made his way to the bedroom.

Hi :) it’s me again. Enjoy this prompt that I randomly typed down while on a study break. Thanks for all the likes from my latest work! You’re all amazing!!

Stay safe, always

~chai 

[writerbuddha]

Hey

Your blog is interesting. I do see where you're coming from in regards to Buddhism attachment and the Jedi and stuff. I do agree about them having no choice but to enter the war because of the implications. Although the Clones are legally slaves as they are considered possessions of the State. The Jedi might have respected them and not persoanlly enslaved them, but neither fact changes their status. However, I can see the other side as well. I understand why people have an issue with the whole "attachment" thing and how its applied. I mean the Jedi are in the right for joining the Clone Wars, despite the status of Clones, yet Anakin is bad and wicked and selfish and greedy for wanting to help his enslaved mom. The implication that leaving her to rot in slavery or die alone, scared and in agony at the hands of the Tuskens was the more "moral" or Jedi thing to do is very problematic for a lot of people. Or, the idea that he should have left his 14 year old Padawan to suffocate under rubble because rescuing her means he's "selfish and greedy" is similarly problematic. I think that both run contrary to the ethical code that many of us are raised with. The idea that you should help people, especially children, no matter what and never turn your back on a friend.

Sorry if this is a long ask and I don't mean to offend anyone.

Hey!

You said nothing offensive. I hear you.

That’s run contrary to my ethical code as well.

Anakin wasn’t bad, wicked or selfish or greedy for wanting to help his mom, leaving her in slavery wasn’t a moral or a Jedi thing to do at all. Nor that he should have left Ahsoka to die, wanting to rescue he wasn’t made him selfish. What you described is, at full extent, falls into the category of compassion, non-attached love. And that is genuine love, wanting others to be happy and free from suffering, covering what you described, helping people, especially children, no matter what and never turn your back on a friend.

I firmly believe the “attachment” thing is problematic because the majority of fans are not fully aware of the meaning of the concept. Attachment as George Lucas described it is inability to let go, possession, owning, having, getting, grasping, holding on. This is identical to the Buddhist use of the term. Because reality is temporary, things will come, things will go, everything is temporary. People, beauty, youth, money, everything will slide, at one time, they are in your life, and in the other time they move away from you. While they are in your life, love them. But you can’t attach to them in the other meaning of the word: “fastening” and an “external part attached to perform a particular function.” You must learn to let go, because if you can’t do it, you and your loved one both going to suffer. And the problem with attachment is that it’s always about you, it’s more the love of the self than the love of the beloved. You want to keep people around, because they make you happy. You won’t lose them because then you will suffer from you not having them. And this is why it is selfish and greedy. And because we all want everlasting joy, if you are attached, you will become afraid of losing your attachments, and it will lead you on a very dark path, ending in hate. And you will suffer, because you will spend your life being afraid, being angry, hateful. And that’s what Yoda was talking about, and that’s what they sensed in him about Shmi: “You afraid of losing her.” And that’s what Luminara said to him in that Clone Wars episode: “It’s not that I gave up, Skywalker, but unlike you, when the time comes, I am prepared to let my student go. Can you say the same?”

Listen to how Lars and Anakin say their final goodbye to Shmi: Lars last words to her: “Thank you.” Anakin’s last words to her: “I miss you so much.”

Whereas Shmi had non-attached love: her love for Anakin wasn’t how happy he makes her, but how happy Anakin is. And that’s why she was able to let him go. I’m always saying, Shmi is a “lay Jedi”.

Luminara is “at ease” when Barriss life is in danger, but I think it’s very important to notice that she always saying, she didn’t want Barriss to die, or she doesn’t care or she gave up. That’s why I don’t like Dave Filioni’s take on that episode, but he said it’s his personal reading, so I respect it. But I disagree. The problem is that many of us were almost encouraged to panic or fall to atoms in times like this, and the majority of movies and tv shows are outright glorifying hysteria as a measure of love. Ahsoka and Barriss wasn’t saved because Anakin started to run around in full panic mode, but because Ahsoka was able to come up with a plan. Luminara wasn’t giving up, nor she didn’t care that much about Barriss, but she accepted the fact that they might be too late, so she started to prepare herself for the worst. “If my Padawan has perished, I will mourn her, but I will celebrate her as well through her memory.”

The Jedi are trained to love people, but not to get attached to them, which is non-attachment – compassion. When you are compassionate, your love for your loved one, their happiness, their freedom from suffering gives you the feeling of being complete, gives you joy. And this is everlasting, because death can interrupt having, but not love. So it’s saying, I love you, so I want you to be free from suffering and I want you to be happy.” It’s genuine concern for others, manifesting itself in active engagement. But there is no fear of you losing, because you don’t have. When you love people, you won’t be afraid. You will be concerned for them, but that’s entirely focused on them, not on yourself. You can’t fear of the pain you will experience when you losing them. That’s a selfish desire for you keeping things and people who bring you joy. Attachment will make you afraid, what will make you hate and suffer.

And this kind of love can extend to all beings, even to their enemies. "don't lose a thousand lives just to save one" however, doesn't mean you must sacrifice your loved ones for the sake of others. The key is always that you should act out of compassion. Not out of fear of losing, the fear of not having.

Why the Jedi didn’t go to Tatooine to liberate slaves, that’s another question, but not because Anakin wasn’t allowed to care about his mother. A Jedi is a negotiator, ambassador, who is not going to war. They were not going to war until Attack of the Clones, as Lucas said, because they are not aggressive force. I always saw that their logic is that If they would go to Tatooine and liberate all slaves, they would have to fight a war against Jabba, pirates, the hutts, the crime empires etc. That’s not what they do. They did it once with Zygerria, but back then they weren’t alone, the Republic actually wanted to uphold its values, they made Zygerria to comply. But with the Republic corrupted, the Jedi wasn’t enough at all to uphold peace and justice. If the Republic would have function properly, they would enforce their laws on Tatooine, but the Republic didn’t care about them, so they didn’t have the support to function, too. They were overwhelmed, and they are not super people. Without the Republic, they go to Tatooine, defeat Jabba, then leave to help others. When they come back, there is a new Jabba, because free people on Tatooine didn’t really care and the Republic didn’t really care. All what happens is that they lose lives. But with the Clone Wars, all the galaxy caught fire, so they had to go to war anyway.

I am more than willing to accept that the Jedi wasn’t perfect, and I have to admit, I am glad to see that when people believe they advocated abandoning friends or family, they reject them so fiercely. But I can't help but think, their morals, choices and situations are often misunderstood. For example, I can't find any good reason why the Jedi wouldn't want to pursue the Senate to give the clones citizenship when the war was over. On the contrary. Their portrayal requires them to do so. Like Lucas said, they had good intentions, and they are going to war to save as many as they can. In the Clone Wars, you can see they care about clones as much as they care for non-clones.

Sorry for the even longer reply! XD I hope it's useful.

[thrndlngs]

three times shinsou misses the opportunity to kiss you + the one time he seized the moment.

── pairing, shinsou x fem!prohero!reader ── request: x times shinsou wants to kiss fem reader??? pLZ I NEED IT ── author’s note: this was super dope & cute to write. tysm for sending this in. i hope i did this justice and it wasn’t to out of character.  also reader has a water quirk & the two of you are in your early twenties.  ♡ 

i.

     "'toshi,” you whispered, chest against his as the two of you currently hid from the group of villains. your two agencies had partnered up in attempt to take down a new gang of villains who were transporting drugs from the city to the waters, the two of you were partnered because of how the two of you excelled in your respective agencies, shinsou was sent to aid in your patrols of the waters  ──  which is why the two of you are currently hiding in a storage closet on a ship. 

  “shut up.” you don’t take it to heart, you’re sure he means it as nicely as possible - he just lacks a few pages in the ‘vocabulary’ department. 

  “we need to do something.” you tell him, trying your best to meet his gaze in the tight space (which was nearly impossible because he’s towering over you at the moment). he doesn’t reply, not at first at least, if you looked hard enough you would probably see the gears in his head turning. 

  “──stop talking, it’s distracting me.” 

  your mouth quickly shuts, fidgety hands are now at your side, you were starting to get antsy and there was practically little to no room to move around without being heard - or seen for that matter. 

  “they switch the guards every ten minutes, in the middle of the switch, we run.” the purple haired male explained, taking a peak at the time on his cellphone. the two of you had to endure this for three more minutes. just three more minutes and you would be free.

  “three minutes,” you repeated, more to confirm this for yourself. you’re sure you wouldn’t last that long, after all, this was shinsou, the male you’ve had a crush on for quite some time now. how were you expected to last that long?

  “──think of it like seven minutes of heaven.”

  “we haven’t played that since── “

  “yeah, yeah i know, but just think of it like that. don’t think about the closet, just the game.” 

  you nodded quickly, meeting his gaze as the two of you stood there in silence. you’d be lying if you said you weren’t thinking about kissing him. it seemed like the perfect moment - it was just the two of you. if it were the last day on earth, you at least wanted to go out with a bang. you know?

  “let me get comfortable, you can do the same after.” you watched as he places either hands besides your head, slouching a bit against the wall so his back could have some sort of support. he nods to you, signaling for you to do the same. 

  it takes you a moment, the position shinsou is currently in causes your heart to skip just a few beats. were you disappointed in yourself for letting your mind drift.. elsewhere during a mission? for sure. did you care right now? absolutely not.

  you cleared your throat, widening your stance and trying to balance the weight in between your legs to help ease some of the weight  ──  but there wasn’t really much you could do.

  “two minutes.” 

   this had to be the longest three minutes of your life.

   “i think i just tasted my own sweat.” he complained. it feels like he’s sweating in places he shouldn’t produce sweat in.

  “i feel like a fish out of water,” you added.

  “──gonna start passing out if i don’t throw you in the water soon?”

  “says the one whose sweating to death.” 

  “and you’re dehydrated. guess we’re both shit out of luck aren’t we?”

  “yeah, but, i think this isn’t the worst way to die.” 

  he takes another peak at his cellphone, noting that there’s a minute left before the two of you could finally get out of this damn storage closet. “you’ve got a minute to tell me anything worse than dying like this.” 

  in hindsight ── there’s a lot that could happen in a minute, that’s the only reason you said something to begin with. “alone, i could die in this closet, alone and then you know, it would be lonely.” 

 “are you serious?” 

  “oh come on! that’s pretty serious!”

  “it ── it really isn’t,” he’s trying to laugh as quietly as possible and you playfully slapped him in his shoulder. 

 “okay, well, i wouldn’t want to die alone.”

  “mhm, scaredy cat.” his smile is infectious and for a moment, he forgets that the two of you are stuck in a storage closet. maybe now would be the perfect time to kiss you, when it’s just the two of you, waiting to make your grand escape, when the two of your are just centimeters apart. 

  “now’s our chance,” he whispered, straightening himself to get out first just in case. he doesn’t want to act off of impulses. if he kisses you, he wants to make sure it’s because you want him too.

ii.

     “good to see you when you’re not acting like a goldfish who just hopped out of it’s bowl.” the familiar voice teased from behind you, hands folded behind his head. if it were anyone else, you might have tripped them.

  “──don’t you have to go buy hair dye now or something?”

  “no that was after i made sure a fisherman didn’t take you on the way home.”

  “is this what do you do on your spare time? think of jokes that revolve around my quirk?”  

  he rolls his shoulder lazily, leaning against the apartment railing across from your front door. “they come naturally, no extra thinking required.”

  “and here i thought all the hair dye went to your brain.”

   this wasn’t out of the norm for the two of you, he would make the first jab and then you would follow suit. sometimes, the bickering could go on for hours  ──  regardless of task at hand (like the time the two of you were trying to detain a villain and shinsou had told the woman you were a water sprite), it’s an old nickname of yours, he had given it to you back at the sports festival when you were kids. you had earned it when you had almost drown mineta because he wouldn’t stop making inappropriate jokes and you had brought the entire water fountain down on him. 

  as the two of you stood there in silence, you, had your back against your door, hands folded behind you while he stood parallel, arms against his chest he wonders: is this the time he kisses you goodnight? 

  “d’ya want to come inside? i have leftovers? we could pull an all nighter like we used to do back in the dorms?” there’s a hint of hopefulness in your eyes and he would feel like absolute shit if he declined the offer.

  “only because you have food.” 

  he doesn’t kiss you goodnight then. and he doesn’t kiss you goodnight when you fall asleep on his shoulder after the second horror movie either. if you were anyone else, he would’ve left without a care in the world, but it’s you and you are different. 

  so he stays and tells himself that tomorrow will be a new day and tomorrow, he can try again.

iii.

     “i don’t dance,” shinsou tells you as you so desperately tried to bring him onto the dance floor. it’s a hero’s gala, everyone from your respective classes at U.A. were here, pro heroes from all around the world and some of your old instructors as well  ──  these aren’t his thing, you know that. you remember his attitude during the first two hours of the third year’s ‘goodbye party’ - not much had changed. he’s taller, a bit more handsomer and smiles more often. 

  “you do tonight, come on.” while you had dragged him by one hand, the other desperately tried to loosen his tie because it feels like he’s suffocating. 

  “──you’ll be the death of me woman.” he’s mumbling under his breath, one hand resting in yours as the other found its place at your waist.

  “because i asked you to dance? might i say this is on your list of horrible ways to die?” you teased, offering him that infectious smile that makes him go weak in his knees. he hates to admit the pull you have on him  ──  he might even go as far as saying you might have him wrapped around that finger of yours and you don’t even know it yet.

  “if it’s by your hands i would say it’s a merciful death.”

  “a merciful death? i’ll keep that in mind.” 

  “don’t test your luck,” you know he’s only messing with you  ──  

  you’re to busy enjoying the moment to think of some witty comeback. it’s something about the way your hand seems to fit perfectly in his. or how the two of you are able to move in sync without any words spoken in between the two of you that’s driving you insane.

  if you would’ve told your past self that you would be slow dancing with the hitoshi shinsou at a hero’s gala while the world around you disappeared you would’ve laughed at the idea. it would’ve seem silly to you  ──  stupid even. shinsou and you weren’t rivals like you and bakugou were, but, you had always found yourself trying to one up him. 

  yet here you were, swaying to the slow tune as you managed to snake your arms around his midsection and rest a head against his chest. maybe this was his chance: with the little distance in between the two of you, dim lighting and dressed to the nines. surely, this would be a good memory to relive later down the road wouldn’t it? 

  but he wanted to savor the moment. so he decides it against it  ── despite the ache in his chest.

  iv.

     "we did it.” shinsou muses, an awkward hand offered in your direction for you to shake. it’s been six months but your agencies had finally shut down the smuggling operation and you could finally take the break you had so desperately needed. you weren’t sure what to do with the outstretched hand, but, you give in anyways, resting your hand in his as he gave it a firm shake.

  “pleasure doing business with you.” you tell him, lips curving into a bittersweet smile. teasing, bickering and ‘playful’ sparring aside, you were going to miss him. you were used to patrolling and doing missions on your own but this was different. 

  “try not to end up on the other side of fishing hook, yeah?” it’s his way of telling you to be careful in shinsou’s teasing nature.

  “make sure i’m the one to grant you the merciful death.” please be careful, is what you want to say. though you couldn’t bring yourself to say it aloud - if you did, it would only confirm that you care about the purple haired pro hero more than you should. 

  he shakes his head with a laugh, “you’re the only one who gets the satisfaction.” 

  “it better stay that way ‘toshi.” 

  he doesn’t know for certain if your agencies would cross paths again. your agency was closer to the waters and he was closer in the city, the chance that you would run into one another again would be slim to none. 

 he clears his throat for a moment, retreating his hand from yours and placing them at your waist instead. he’s pictured this a thousand times but now that he’s in the moment he couldn’t manage to find the right words. it’s frustrating, really.

  “──hi.” you’re holding your breath in anticipation, was this another one of his games? was he going to kiss you? tell you a secret? use his capture weapon and tell you that he’s not letting you go until you admit something embarrassing?

  he doesn’t care anymore. doesn’t care if it makes him look like a love sick idiot when he kisses you like it’s the last thing he’s about to do before he dies, he doesn’t care if anyone’s watching or for the wrinkles you’ll cause since you’ve got a fistful of his shirt in a desperate attempt to close whatever little distance the two of you had between you. 

  you pull away first causing him to pout (which was actually cute but you’d never give him the satisfaction of knowing that) but you do laugh.

  “you know,” he muses, a hand reaching up to rub at the back of his neck sheepishly, a habit you hadn’t seen in years. “──i didn’t want to let you walk away without something to remember, my little water sprite.” 

  you rolled your eyes at the choice of nickname but were flattered nonetheless, your own arms finding their way around his neck, “who said i was walking away?”

[fragmentedink-archived]

Liminal: Chapter Two: Unexected Item in Bagging Area

​I

cowritten by @lux-scriptum

Sending Eden to pre-school was just as upsetting for Lev as it was for Eden. He hated he couldn’t be the one to take her, to walk her to her classroom on her first day, and promise they’d be back for her in just a few hours. It was only a half day, she was only just turned four and wouldn’t be able to go to kindergarten until next year.

And yet Eden was grey faced in her anger over being forced to go, when Cruz didn’t have to, and Lev was morose in how much he’d miss his bitty girl in the several hours she wouldn’t be home. He held Cruz in his arms, and watched Cameron and Nik drive off, Eden’s angry shrieks only slightly muffled until they were at the treeline that hid the rest of the long driveway.

“She’ll be home soon,” Lev told Cruz, who lifted silver eyes to Lev and sucked on his thumb contentedly.

As he walked back to the playroom, Darius wove in between his legs, his purring filling the silence. The little spotted cat pulled away, tail hooked upright as he led the way. Lev found it hard to bring himself to put Cruz down to play.

The baby seemed content to play, especially with the newfound quiet of not having Eden around to take his toys and bully him in general. That was how Nik and Cameron found him a while later.

“How’d she take it?” Lev asked sadly, looking to Cameron for his answer.

Nik wormed his way around Cameron and beelined for Cruz. “Hello, conejito,” Nik said, fondly, coming in and immediately scooping up Cruz to plant a kiss on his brown cheek.

Cameron seemed less than pleased with his experience of taking Eden to school for the first time. “As well as to be expected,” he replied, neutrally.

“So not well,” Lev said, deflating some. He switched his gaze to Nik holding Cruz, though when Darius climbed in his lap and pushed his golden head against Lev’s chin, whiskers tickling, Lev sighed, running a hand down his back. “She’ll get used to school,” Lev added, more to convince himself than anyone else.

“Not like she has much of a choice,” Cameron said, fixing his cufflink. “From what I understand, you must be schooled until adulthood, whether you like it or not.”

Lev hummed, standing up with Darius and holding him as if he were a baby. “Yeah,” he said, letting Darius reach out with a slender paw and slowly tap his cheek. “Hopefully she learns to like it,” Lev muttered. “It’s not fun to hate school the whole time. And you learn less then.”

“I learned plenty,” Nik said, nibbling on Cruz’s tiny fingers. “I’m sure she’ll figure it out.”

Lev shot Nik a glare, but just shifted so that Darius could sit on his shoulder. “What’s the plan for today?” He asked, trying to force his mood to lift. “I can't imagine your schedule includes standing around all day, and I don’t want to keep you too long.”

Cameron lifted a brow at Lev’s attempt to improve his own spirits. “I have paperwork to do and unless there is something you require of me, I will leave you to babysit Nik and the baby.”

Lev bit his lip to hide a smile at Nik’s offended expression. “It’s not babysitting if it’s my own kid,” Lev said, but he nodded anyway. “Am I in charge of lunch today or is that on your schedule too?’

Cameron seemed to heavily weigh the pros and cons of meal prep or not. “You can make lunch if you wish,” he said, finally. “Perhaps it will lift your… mood with Eden not here.”

Lev grimaced, but all he did was promise, “I’ll clean up after myself. And bring you some, when it’s ready.” Cameron was clearly trying to be delicate about how Lev was feeling, and he appreciated the effort, a lot, as clumsy as Lev considered it.

“Hm.” Cameron gave a curt nod. “Very well, then. I’ll be in my office.” He flicked his cool blue eyes at Nik. “Behave.”

“He’s two,” Nik said, frowning.

“I was talking about you,” he replied, turning on his heel and disappearing from the doorway.

---

A week in and they had a new schedule. It took an hour and a half to wind down for bed, mostly to trick Eden into thinking she’d won not going to bed until she fell asleep herself. And within an hour of the adults piling into their own bed, Eden woke up with nightmares.

Most of the time Lev got up to comfort her. He missed her during the day, so it wasn’t a problem to snuggle to help her sleep the rest of the night through. He hummed little songs half remembered from his own childhood and tried to ignore that he didn't really fit that well on a toddler bed unless he scrunched up.

And then, again, each morning. He’d wake up, never quite fully rested, arms full of toddler and with Cameron giving him that look. It was one of Cameron’s unreadable ones, of which there were many, but Lev was starting to suspect this one was more calculating than anything else. Cameron was doing math in his head. What kind, Lev couldn’t figure out.

“Time to get up,” was all Cameron said, though, before he left.

Right on schedule.

Lev dropped his head back on the pillow, sighing. He gave himself a few seconds, and then sat up, pulling Eden with him. She grumbled at him, tucking her face against him. Still, half the battle was getting her sitting upright, so no matter how she tried to slither out of his lap and under the covers. “Good morning, bitty girl,” Lev said, trying for cheerful.

“Nooooooo.”

Lev chuckled, and scooted to the edge of the bed so he could plant her on her feet. Same tactic he used with Nik. “It’s time to get up, baby.”

Eden, unsurprisingly, melted to the floor, or at least tried to. She whined at him when Lev refused to let her just flounder and held her up. “I’m tired,” she declared. “So I’m going to bed.”

“You have to get ready for school, bitty girl.” He pressed a stubborn kiss to her forehead. “But you can pick out your outfit today.”

She wrinkled her nose. “I don’t want to. They’re boring and mean.”

“Unfortunately you do have to go,” Lev informed her. “It’ll get less boring. Who’s being mean to you, though?”

“Everyone,” she said, firmly and wiggled free. “They blame me for everything.”

“What, baby?” Lev let her go. “What do you mean?”

She splayed her arms and stalked over to her closet, haughtily. “Someone broke the toys but it wasn’t me.” She folded her arms over her chest, eyes glued to her closet with the most pensive look a four year old could muster.

“That’s...” Lev followed her, reaching out and resting his hand on her shoulder. “I’ll have you dad talk to them. If you didn’t do anything, you shouldn’t be getting blamed.” He tucked a lock of silvery white hair behind her ear. “That’s not fair. We’ll take care of it,” he promised. “Now pick something out to wear,” he prompted after, kissing her cheek.

Eden once again scrunched up her face, but started to riffle through her clothes, looking at each piece of clothing before ripping it off the hanger and letting it fall on the floor. Nearly half of her closet ended up in a messy pile before Eden decided on what to wear.

Making a mental note to clean that up later, Lev helped her get dressed, and then offered her his back for a piggyback ride to breakfast. Once she had scrambled up, he hitched her high and jogged down the halls with an exaggerated motion until she giggled. Her mood seemed much improved by the time Lev settled her in her booster seat (she’d eschewed a high chair well over a year ago with many instances she was a big girl.)

Breakfast was as quiet an affair as was normal for Eden, especially since Nik seemed barely awake enough to feed a docile and equally sleepy Cruz. Lev kept up his bouncy attitude until Cameron packed up Eden and Nik and Cruz to take Eden to school. Only then did he shuffle back to his own bed and flop down.

Within a few minutes Darius settled next to him, curling around him in a comforting hug. Lev rested his head on Darius’ shoulder and sighed. “I almost wish we could homeschool her,” Lev mumbled.

Darius played with a few locks of Lev’s hair. “She needs more socialization than we can provide her,” Darius said. “And more time around kids her own age- friends.”

“She doesn’t seem to be making any.” Lev touched Darius’ wrist lightly. “She says they’re blaming her for things happening. I’m going to have to talk to Cameron about it.”

Darius’ brown face smoothed out, thoughtfully, consideringly. “What kinds of things?”

“Toys getting broken was the only example I was given.”

“Children her age have a harder time controlling their strength,” Darius offered. “Perhaps she isn’t the only one struggling to adjust to being around other children, especially at this particular school.”

“I guess,” Lev said. He sighed. “I hope it is a good idea, them opening a school for children from both kingdoms. I want there to be less tension, but if even the little ones are struggling?”

“Even the smallest of us are sensitive to each other's energies,” Darius replied. “Especially when they share homes with those who have been submerged in grief from the war. Pain echoes.”

“True,” Lev admitted. He could see it in every demon he interacted with, even if that number was limited. “I hope she can adjust.”

They stayed like that, foreheads pressed together, until Cameron got home with Nik and Cruz in tow. Again, Cameron had that look on his face. Lev decided to let him do his thinking and calculating and whatever else, and tucked his face against Darius. He couldn’t wait until Eden got home.

---

After Cameron had taken Eden to school, he had them all congregate in the kitchen. Darius waited patiently, in his chair, drinking tea and watching Nik mindlessly play with Cruz’s hair while he slept on Nik’s shoulder. There wasn’t a day Darius could think of since Nik came home with the little one where Nik allowed for him to nap anywhere besides with him.

Lev sat pleasantly on the counter, swinging his legs and drinking the herbal tea Darius supplied him. He’d offered some to Nik, who refused it for the black instant coffee contraband he kept squirreled away somewhere. Though knowing Cameron, Darius was certain Cameron knew of its existence. He supposed Cameron only allowed it since no one thought to bring it to his attention. Then he’d be forced to remove it from the premises. On principle.

Cameron had gone through the trouble of supplying each of them with a three page packet of diagnostics and a very carefully laid out, thorough, three to five year plan for the four of them. Nik was the first to skim through them, his brows raising bit by bit as he skimmed through the paperwork. “Did you make an infographic of something you could have just spent five minutes telling us?”

Cameron seemed to ignore Nik’s question and popped Lev upside the head, telling him to get off his countertop. Lev hopped down and came to take a place next to Darius, thumbing through the papers thoughtfully. He looked up at Cameron. “What is this?”

“That,” Cameron said, “is a three to five year plan I have put together to give you a child of your own. It takes in account fertility issues and complications you may face, especially due to the lands still healing. But I am also tired of seeing your face always looking like that everytime I take Eden to school, so I elected to fix it.”

Lev gave each page a very careful look over, eyebrows raised. “It’s color coded,” Lev said, clearly impressed. After a few seconds, his face fell. “I was that obvious?”

“Never play poker, Levant,” Nik said, still looking through his pack in puzzled amusement.

“It’s very thoughtful,” Darius said to Cameron.

Cameron looked irritably at him. “It really is not.”

“Hmm.”

“I think it is,” Lev said, smiling a little. He carefully set the pages down, smoothing them out before he looked at Cameron. His eyes were big with poorly disguised hope. “Are you sure you’re okay with this?”

“It will get you to stop looking like someone kicked your dog,” Cameron replied.

Darius did note his nonanswer, but elected to not comment on it. He did not think Cameron would appreciate the pushback against something he had spent time building a plan to fit into his life and routine while still managing to take care of and provide for those who lived in his house.

“Not allowed to have a dog,” Lev said, not really seeming to notice he was even talking. He flipped through the pages again. “I- there’s even a good gap already with the little ones...” If his eyes could form hearts, they would have, as he looked back up at Cameron.

“I am aware,” Cameron said. “I wrote it.”

Nik snorted and muttered into his coffee cup.

Lev dragged his attention to Nik. “Are you okay with this?” He looked anxiously at Darius. “Are you? Just- just cus I want- doesn’t mean I need one.”

Nik plopped a hand on Lev’s shoulder, careful to not jossle Cruz. “Levant. Shut up.”

Lev blinked. “Okay.” He smiled, bit his lip. “Okay.”

Cameron merely rolled his eyes. As pragmatic as this was, and as uncaring as Cameron seemed to many people, Darius did not think there was any true selfish desire from Cameron, though Cameron understanding holding space for himself, did seem to be a bit lost on himself still. But again, Darius did not comment on it.

“Any questions or concerns,” Cameron asked.

After starting to shake his head, Lev paused. “When... When could we start trying?” he asked, sounding shy this time.

“If you read the paperwork,” Cameron said, “your next heat should be an optimal time to start trying to procreate.”

“Only you could make clinical terminology sound sexy, Cameron,” Nik crooned.

“I’m on suppressants,” Lev said blankly. It took a few blank stares - tired stares - before he went, “Oh. Ohhh. No suppressants anymore. Right.”

Cameron’s mouth tugged down at Lev’s momentary pause of common sense. “Right,” he deadpanned.

Despite knowing better, Lev bounced to his feet and threw his arms around Cameron. “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome,” he said, stiffly.

---

Lev fiddled with the pillows in his nest. It’d taken a couple of weeks for the suppressants to work their way out of his system, but he was well on his way to his heat. Cameron had set up care for the little ones, and Lev had all the time and space to build his nest while his temperature rose.

Eventually he circled the bed a few times. Satisfied, he found Nik watching from the doorway. He squinted, and then grabbed Nik by the hand. It took little effort to propel Nik onto the bed, and even less to crawl up beside him, burrowing close. “Didn’t smell enough like you,” Lev mumbled.

Nik laughed, though it didn’t feel like it was at him. After receiving a proper kiss from Nik, Lev bit down on Nik’s shoulder. “‘S Cameron coming?” Lev asked, trying to wiggle inside Nik’s shirt.

“He’ll be here,” Nik assured him.

“...Darius?” Lev asked, giving up on getting inside Nik’s shirt and instead pushing it up in hopes of taking it off.

“He’ll be here when he needs to be.” Nik let Lev wiggle them both out of their clothes, kissed him when Lev tilted his head just so, before Lev even had time to pull out the plead-y eyes.

Somehow Lev found himself hovering over Nik, straddling one of Nik’s thighs as he got kiss after kiss, just barely clinging to the ability to think straight. “I-” Lev dropped the train of thought in favor of pressing close, squeezing his eyes shut. It took him a solid minute to find it again, or at least something close enough to it. “I don’t remember it being so strong before.” Nik practically felt cool under his fingers where he splayed them on Nik’s chest.

“That’s what you get for not having a heat in over two years,” Nik said, flicking him on the nose.

“Gone longer,” Lev mumbled. “Never had to-” He paused, stole a kiss. Stole two. “Never had to fight to think before.” Maybe thinking was overrated. He wanted another kiss.

Nik laughed. “You sure about that?”

It took Lev a few seconds. “Hey.” He leaned forward, and nipped Nik’s nose. “Mean.”

“I am mean,” Nik said, solemnly. “Very mean.”

Lev barely gave that commentary the time of day, and instead kissed Nik again, insistent. “Touch me?”

Nik pulled Lev down on top of him, brown fingers trailing along Lev’s body, leaving traces of cool relief in every place he touched. That was enough to tide him over for a bit, enough that Lev tucked his face in Nik’s neck, purring so hard his vision vibrated.

Lev almost didn’t notice Cameron coming. He twisted, trying to keep his skin plastered to Nik as much as he could, locking his eyes on Cameron. The pale alpha was undressing in his usual meticulous way. Nik snagged Lev’s chin, pulling Lev into another kiss. Lev went willingly, pressing close again until Cameron’s hands slid up Lev’s spine.

A kiss pressed against the back of Lev’s neck, and Lev moaned, pressing up against him, even as he whined at the loss of Nik at his front. Wanted his mate close, wanted his alpha close too. His fingers scrabbled for a shirt that wasn’t there to pull Nik against him, but Nik indulged him, and Cameron’s fingers were sliding inside.

“More?” Lev pleaded. Felt himself being opened up proper, pleaded again anyway, “More?”

Despite the firm “Hush,” he got, a hand wrapped around his neck, pulled him up enough Cameron had room to stretch him for his cock. He almost choked on the purrs that combated with the moan that bubbled up. He shoved back, dragging his mate with him.

“Don’t get greedy,” Nik said, a teasing tone.

“My heat,” Lev retorted, stole a kiss to keep his mate from teasing again. “Kiss me.”

Nik’s brows rose. “Make me.”

This time Lev’s tugging didn’t do much, and there was a little smile on Nik’s face. It didn’t help that Cameron had set a steady pace, practically making Lev go cross eyed. After a few seconds Lev bit down on Nik’s shoulder instead, groaning. He hadn’t thought that would do anything, but his mate grabbed him by the hair, jerking him up for a kiss that was almost a mashing of teeth than a proper kiss.

Lev nuzzled down Nik’s neck, leaving little nips and kisses as he went, not even bothering to question what his next move was until he headbutted Nik’s chest lightly. “My heat,” Lev muttered, almost purred when Nik’s hand rested on his hair. “Want you, too.” He nosed down Nik’s abdomen as best he could with Cameron’s thrusts jostling his face against Nik’s stomach.

Right as he managed to get his mouth around Nik, Cameron gave a particularly powerful thrust, shoving Lev down Nik’s cock much sooner than he expected. Lev gagged, got pulled off wheezing, and mashed his face against Nik’s stomach with the next thrust in a matter of seconds. He heard Nik snort, felt a tug on his hair, but all he cared about was trying again.

This attempt was more successful, filled him just right. He dug his fingers into Nik’s thighs, but other than that he let Nik and Cameron set the pace, knew they’d make sure a cock was inside him at all times. And they did.

Each time Cameron pressed deeper, Lev found himself pushed further into his heat. Someone’s hand ran down his side, another squeezed his throat, emphasized the dick in there, and another yanked on his hair. Only after Nik groaned and yanked Lev against him all the way did Lev realize Nik was coming.

Nik pulled out of Lev’s mouth before he was fully done. Despite gasping for breath, Lev leaned after it. He could hear Nik chuckle, but Cameron pulled him back. The distraction was enough Lev arched against him, grinding down. Finally Nik deigned to kiss him, though it was soon proven to be a trap, as Nik immediately followed it with a solid lick to the face. Lev scrunched up his face. When he opened his mouth, he found himself kissing Nik instead of complaining. Cam’s hand squeezed again, making Lev’s breath stutter against the pressure, just as Nik’s found Lev’s cock.

Cameron’s knot was starting to stretch Lev further; soft, gasping moans were interspersed between the desperate kisses Lev demanded from his mate. As Lev’s omega crooned in satisfaction, Cameron bit down on his shoulder, right over the bite he’d left a few years ago after Rem-

A rush of hormones swept those unwanted thoughts away, overwhelmed him, and Nik’s hand brought him over the edge right with Cameron. His cry was muffled by the next harsh kiss Nik gave him. Nik even followed Lev as he slowly melted back against Cameron’s steady strength. If Lev’d been in any state to remember, he knew they’d planned on Cameron giving Lev the mating bite (it was in the packet) but right now all Lev knew was his alpha and his mate and the knot, and the purrs building in his throat.

After a few test swipes of Nik’s thumb over the head of his cock that sent aftershocks shuddering through Lev, both his mate and his alpha ran their hands along his skin until he relaxed. The heat inside eased enough he closed his eyes, relished Nik’s cooling kisses wherever they landed.

By the time Cameron pulled out and started cleaning them up, Lev was more than lulled halfway to sleep. He broke into purrs, nuzzling close to Nik. After a few moments of peace, another cool body pressed against Lev. The familiar scent of Darius further soothed him, but he didn’t have the energy to roll over, so he let himself drift off, his mate on one side, Darius on the other, and a strange but distinct awareness letting him know Cameron was getting the rest of his heat’s necessities set up in the meantime.

---

Even though Lev was beyond excited, sending Eden to school still pulled at Lev’s heart, especially when she didn’t want to go. He did his best to hide it, not wanting to seem ungrateful. He wasn’t. Especially since his heat had worked. Lev was lucky that he had Sazra living in Cameron’s house. She had been able to tell early.

Every time missing Eden caught him unawares, as silly as it was to miss her when she was only gone for a few hours, he found himself seeking out Cruz, as often as Nik let him (not too often), or running his fingers across his still soft tummy.

Still, this was one of the few times Nik had let Lev abscond with Cruz. Even if absconding meant holding while Nik hovered right at his shoulder. Cruz, to his credit, was content to sit on Lev’s hip, kicking his feet and chewing on his little fist, silver eyes crinkled in silent laughter as Nik made faces at him. Lev pressed kisses to Cruz’s cheek, smiled at his silent giggles.

It took ten minutes before Lev realized they’d been standing for much longer than that, Lev swaying back and forth gently. Grabbing Nik’s hand, he pulled them into Cruz's ursery. Lev settled with Cruz on his lap, while Nik grabbed a few toys for Cruz to play with. Always content, Cruz grabbed at whichever toy caught his interest, and Lev wrapped his arms around the baby lightly while he stared contentedly at Nik.

“I want to start planning the nursery,” Lev said, tilting his head a bit.

Nik’s brows lifted in surprise. “I- sure,” he said. “We can do that. But isn’t it a bit… early? For that?”

“I don’t see why,” Lev replied, tucking an errant lock behind Cruz’s ear. “Cameron has his five year plan. I’m perfectly healthy right now. I’m not saying putting it together right now, we can give it a little while, but- plans? Wallpaper and crib styles, that’s all.”

Nik didn’t look completely sold on Lev’s logic, but he still shrugged. “If you want,” he said. “Besides I’m sure Cameron is already ten steps ahead of either of us.”

Lev hummed. “He is,” Lev agreed. “Which is why I'm sure he won’t be surprised by my request.” He looked around the room. “I like the dark woods he got for Cruz’s nursery, but I don’t think I want an ocean theme. That’s yours and Cruz’s.”

“Uh, yeah,” Nik said. “That would be copying.”

“And we wouldn’t want to do that,” Lev agreed, hiding his smile. “Still, I’m- hm. I’m feeling lots of blues and purples maybe? Lots of soft things.”

“That tracks. You are a soft person.”

Lev stuck out his tongue. “And babies need soft in the beginning. Their skulls aren’t even fully formed yet.”

“Wouldn’t want the baby to break their face on Cameron’s cheekbones,” Nik said, in a very serious tone. “That would be bad for everyone.”

“Well we can’t exactly do anything for that,” Lev said thoughtfully. “But we can keep the floor safe for them.” He heaved a sigh. “It’s too early to wonder about gender, for sure.”

“Gender isn’t everything,” Nik said, “But you can always just pile away a bunch of pink and blue shit if you want.”

“I know,” Lev promised. “I don’t really care; whoever they are, they’re mine. Besides, pink doesn’t seem right. Doesn’t fit.”

Nik rolled his eyes, but affectionately. “I’ll make sure to keep a mental note, I guess.”

“Thank you,” Lev said, smiling. “I appreciate it. Now- I’m going to wait a little, definitely, but I think we should explain to the little ones.”

That unsure look flashed across Nik’s face once more, but still, he said, “If you want, sure.”

Lev sighed, looking down. “Not like I have anyone else to tell,” he admitted. “And I don’t want them to be blind sided.”

“Well, you still have the chance to break it to Ash,” Nik said cheerfully.

Lev froze, blinking hard. “No one told Ash?” he squeaked.

“Well it is your business,” Nik said.

“I- I should do that,” Lev mumbled. “The longer we wait, the madder he’ll be we didn’t tell him.”

“Good luck with that,” Nik said with laughter in his voice. “He’s always mad about something or another.”

---

Ash had gotten used to finding his footing within the last several months of being completely blind. However he still wasn’t pleased with requiring assistance with any aspect of his day, especially in regard to his work or his son. But he was still both pleased and surprised that Lev invited him over, but also suspicious, as Lev didn’t seem like the type to strike Ash of all people up for a conversation.

He knocked on the massive front doors of Cameron’s home, resting his weight on his cane, waiting impatiently to be let in. He could tell it was Lev, by the slow, anxious way the door sounded being opened. “This isn’t ominous at all,” Ash remarked. “You going to let me in or stand there a shaking mess?”

“I’m not shaking,” Lev grumped at him, but he backed up to let him in. “Cameron made snacks.”

Ash made his way inside and let Lev lead him towards the kitchen. He planted himself at the table and picked at some fruit while he waited for Lev to spit out whatever it was he was afraid of telling him.

“I’m pregnant,” Lev finally said, sitting down heavily next to him.

Ash stopped. Frowned. And sat the fruit down. “You know,” he said. “I’m trying to decide if I’m more offended that you clearly are so afraid of telling me for whatever warped reason your tiny little brain can come up with, or if I’m offended that you didn’t even think to talk to me about possible pregnancies in the future after you were dead for months and the impact that could have you and your body. But I guess since I don’t have my magic anymore, my opinions don’t really matter to you.”

“It’s not like that,” Lev protested. “I just- once Cameron offered, I didn’t even think it through. And I didn’t think to tell you because I can’t talk to my family at all, so- not that you’re my family, but- you know.”

“No I don’t Lev,” he said, irritably. “I am your doctor. Between you and Amara constantly doing this shit to me I’m quite frankly irritated with the both of you. Did you even stop to think about the risks of being forced to give birth in a land that you poisoned less than five years ago, or?”

Lev hesitated audibly. “No, I didn’t.” He sighed. “There was a packet, a fancy five year plan, and- I’m perfectly healthy. Even if I wasn’t worried about it, Cameron would still shuttle me down stairs every week to Sazra. I’m lucky to have a live in healer, and-”

“Ah, yes, because the agoraphobic demon in your basement and the serial killer you call your boyfriend know everything about curses and magic that’s killed millions of healthy infants,” Ash said. “Did Cameron include all of that in his fancy packet?”

Lev shuffled with something, the packet most likely judging by the sound. “Page two, on the back side,” Lev mumbled. “In the case of miscarriages and complications...”

“That’s rich.”

“I don’t know what else to say,” Lev admitted.

“I’m sure you don’t,” Ash said, sighing sharply. “But if Cameron and his fancy packet of papers can save your ass, then don’t let me stop you. But next time, either tell me about your idiodic plans before you go through with them or don’t tell me at all. I don't need to be an afterthought. Thanks.”

“I’m sorry, I really am,” Lev said softly. “As soon as I realized no one told you, I reached out.”

Ash gave him a thin smile. “Well good on you, then. Did you forget to tell anyone else, or am I just the last person on the stop.” Aside from Lev’s family, that was.

There was an uncomfortable pause, and then a pained gasp. “I forgot to tell Zareth.”

“My condolences,” he deadpanned.

“This is going to hurt him so much,” Lev whispered.

“....what’s going to hurt me?” came a deep male voice from the doorway.

If Ash was a betting man, he’d say that was Zareth.

“Cameron said you had to talk to me about something?”

Ash did not miss the tired, reserved sound in the demon’s voice. Ash did not utter a word and bit into the apple still in his hand, letting Lev dig himself his grave. Again.

Lev’s chair scraped against the floor. “I- he did?” His swallow was audible. “I- oh I didn’t- I didn’t prepare for-” Another small breath. “He didn’t warn me you’d- I’m pregnant.”

The silence in the room was suddenly very heavy. Zareth eventually cleared his throat, and Ash could imagine him shoving his hands in his pants, with how awkward he sounded. “Well. Congratulations,” he said. “I wish you and yours much happiness.”

“Zareth, wait- I’m- I’m sorry. Really, I am.” Unsurprisingly, his voice broke a little.

“No, it’s fine,” Zareth said. “This was something you had been wanting. I’m happy you’re finally able to get something you've been waiting for for a while.”

“Right,” Lev said in a small voice. “I- that’s all the news I have,” he finally said. “It’s really early still.”

“I hope things go well for you and yours,” he said. “If you don’t mind, I think I'm gonna head out, then,”

“Okay,” Lev replied. “Okay. Um. Yeah.”

When Ash was certain Zareth was gone, he cleared his throat. “So, that was kinda painful,” he remarked. “Did you shoot his dog or something?”

“He was trying for a child,” Lev admitted heavily, settling next to Ash. “Long before- before I came back. He and his wife weren’t having any luck before then, and now-”

“And now you shot their chance to hell?” Ash deadpanned.

“A little.” Lev thunked what Ash assumed was his head on the table. “A lot.” He gave a sigh. “I’ll keep you updated, I guess?” He paused again. “Am I allowed to ask how Amara is?”

“Are you?”

“I don’t know, Ash, that’s why I’m asking before I ask,” Lev snipped, an uncharacteristic bit of fire to his muffled voice.

“Why don’t you ask someone else, then” Ash said, irritation inflaming by Lev’s tone. “You don’t get to use me as an afterthought and then ask me about people you’re not even supposed to be talking to. I suggest asking someone else more inclined to hold your hand.”

Ash got up from the table and started his way for the kitchen door.

“Ash, wait-” Lev tried. “Ash- I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have snapped at you.”

“You know,” Ash said, stopping, “your family seems to have an uncanny ability to ask me shit then ignore me and then be assholes to me when I get pissed when I get ignored in the first place. You and Amara are more alike than either of you think. You should work on that.”

“I’m sorry,” Lev repeated, somehow sounding both hurt and very tired. “I will keep you updated, I promise. Unless you don’t want to be.”

“Alright,” Ash sighed. “You do that. Or don’t. Whatever. I don’t care anymore.”

“Okay,” Lev replied.

Ash gave Lev another heartbeat to speak, but when he offered nothing else, Ash found his way back to the car where the driver was waiting for him to take him home, where Ash was decidedly going to take a very long shower.

----

Lev knew it was still early; he was barely showing, could easily hide it with how plump he already was, but he still (after hashing it out with Nik and Cameron) decided to sit Eden and Cruz down to try to explain. He tucked Eden close, pressing a kiss to her head.

“We have some big news for you, bitty girl,” Lev said, trying to fill his voice with nothing but enthusiasm.

Eden seemed enamored with the doll in her hands, but she still seemed to be paying some attention to him, when she said, “Hm?”

“We’re having another baby,” Lev said, anxiously smoothing her hair.

Eden’s head snapped up. “Why?”

Of all the questions, Lev hadn’t expected that one. “Why? Because... because I wanted one?”

“No.” Eden said, firmly, dropping her doll on the ground. “No more.”

“It’s a little late for that, bitty girl,” Lev said gently. He touched his stomach, almost absently. “We’re having a baby.”

“Well I don’t want one,” she said, crossing her arms. “I don’t like Cruz, either.”

“Baby...” He gave her a hug. “Having another baby doesn’t mean you’re any less loved. I have plenty for all of you. Besides, what if it’s a little girl? Wouldn’t you like a little sister?”

Eden wiggled her way out from beneath him. “No!”

“Eden,” Lev tried, letting her go without protest. “Unfortunately no isn’t an option.”

“I don’t like you,” she said, crossly. “I don’t want a baby. You have two!”

Much to Lev's annoyance, Eden’s words triggered his hormonal tears. He fought them as best he could, and said, “And soon I’m going to have a third. It’s okay if you need a bit to think about it, get used to it.”

“And if I don’t?”

“The baby will be here eventually either way, baby.” And he really hoped the time would help.

“Will you make me go away again if I don’t like the baby?”

And oh, that hurt, so much. “No, no, of course not baby.” Hurt worse when she wouldn’t let him hold her again. He didn’t push, though. “You’re not going away again. You don’t have to like the baby. You’ll have to get used to them, but you don’t have to like them. I promise.”

“You’re lying,” she said, sounding accusatory.

“I’m not. I would never lie to you.” He offered her doll to her. Maybe that would comfort her since he wasn’t able to. “I can get your dad to prove it, if you want. He knows when we lie, doesn’t he?”

Eden pursed her lips. “Dad lies too.”

Lev sighed. “Well, I’m not lying. I love you very much, and a new baby isn’t going to change that.”

“Well I don’t believe you,” she said, primly. “And I don’t want a baby.”

“The baby is already on the way,” Lev told her sadly, touching his belly again. “But if I need to I’ll tell you any way you need.”

“Why, you don’t listen,” Eden said. “I’m going to go play with my toys.”

Lev watched her go, pulling one knee close to his chest, or as close as he could anyway. He hadn’t really expected anything else, and yet- it did hurt, a little. Hopefully he could win her over before the baby got here.

---

It had been a bit after taking Eden to school that Nik got Cruz settled on his hip, letting him nap while he had wandered around the manor. It hadn’t taken him long, really, to find Lev, not that he actually needed to go searching for him. Wasn’t like he had many places he could wander off to.

He found Lev cleaning up the zoo that was Eden’s room, though he seemed to be spacing a bit since he was currently folding and refolding the same shirt without even realizing it. He wasn’t sure how to help without sounding like too much of a dickhead. Pregnancies were already precarious with angels and demons, both, and that didn’t even include the weird shit that happened to the demonic territories. Both he and Cameron tried to warn him, in their own way, but Lev seemed inclined to listen to neither of them.

It took Lev a moment to realize he was there. “Oh. Hi,” he said, clearly trying to force his usual wide eyed smile.

Nik tried to not look so pained. “You okay there, bud?”

“Hm?” Lev looked down at the shirt. “Oh. I- yeah.” Even Lev seemed to realize how bad of a lie that was, but all he did was unfold the shirt and start folding it again, smoothing the creases fastidiously.

“Sure about that?”

Lev winced. “I’m fine. I’m- I’m fine.” He finally put the shirt away, and bent to pick up another. “Complications are expected. I’m not an exception.”

“I dunno, you kinda seemed to… be expecting to think you were,” Nik winced. “But that doesn't mean it still doesn’t suck.”

“Right. It... sucks.” Lev swallowed hard. He reached up as if to wipe his eyes, and seemed startled to see he wasn’t crying. “I am- I’ll be okay. I won't just stop functioning because I mis- because I miscarried.”

“Mhmm.”

Nik wasn’t too sure he believed that, considering Lev was… Lev. But he was sure it’d end up fine in the end when he did have a pregnancy that stuck.

---

Lev hadn’t enjoyed telling Eden, or Cruz, but it was a little obvious when his belly never actually grew. Turns out they’d not really understood what all having a baby, making a baby, involved but Cameron had taken over explaining that. Lev didn’t think he liked the way Eden looked at him afterwards. Cruz was Cruz, and Nik seemed more willing to let Lev hold him when he wanted, but that usually meant when Cruz took naps all three of them did, curled up in Cameron’s bed with Cruz tucked between them.

Somehow Lev didn’t think Cameron minded having Nik, Lev, and Cruz out of his hair.

The conversation with Ash about... everything had been strange. As usual, somehow Ash had been quite blunt and more than a little pissy, but overall, helpful. It led to Lev getting a therapist, though Lev was not sure how much he was allowed to tell her. He really needed to message Biela, get confirmation, but- it kept slipping his mind, and so he kept the details to himself.

Nik was still worried about him; that was fair. Lev was not good at lying, and they all knew he was when he said he was okay. He was trying to be okay, though, so that had to count for something.

They weren’t trying, at the moment. Lev didn’t think he could handle it, and for a while he hadn’t wanted them to have sex at all. Hadn’t realized how much of a comfort it brought, at first. Because it did bring comfort.

It was on a night where that comfort was needed that Lev found himself settled on the bed by Cameron. Nik was putting Cruz down; Cruz was extra fussy tonight, and Nik planned to join them later. Lev didn’t mind, and it was rare that he got time with just Cameron like this.

Cameron was always efficient, even when Lev could tell he was putting effort into making it seem less mechanical for Lev’s sake. Lev was quickly stripped, and he wouldn’t have been surprised if the clothes landed folded in a chair. The level of perfection Cameron expected, even of himself, was intimidating most of the time, but when it was turned towards his partners’ pleasure, the results were unparalleled.

It was unclear if Cameron was trying to stall for Nik, or trying to be attentive, but his mouth and hands roamed for longer than was necessary to get Lev going. Lev ate it up, head tilted back, fingers knotting shyly in Cameron’s hair when he nipped a bit too hard. By the time Cameron even got to stretching him out, Lev was fighting the urge to squirm. Experience told him if he wiggled too much he’d find himself pinned down, and he was enjoying this too much to earn that just yet.

When Cameron finally pushed inside, he covered Lev completely, arms braced on either side. The weight of his alpha pressing down and in was exactly what Lev needed, and Cameron’s lips working their way up his neck as Lev groaned in delight was very welcome. He was careful not to pull too hard on Cameron’s hair, to not buck too impatiently against Cameron's methodical strokes; clearly Cameron planned on taking his time.

Broken little purrs escaped Lev as he let Cameron do as he wished. His alpha had years of practice to fine tune his work, but Cameron had known from the beginning how to play Lev like a fiddle. He teased Lev up to the edge and backed off like the ebb and flow of the tide, stringing Lev along until Lev was panting out pleading whimpers. Each desperate grind up against Cameron only earned him a firm push back into the bed. Lev’s soft frame didn’t stand a chance against Cameron’s carefully toned muscle, and he was at Cameron’s mercy.

Just the way Lev liked it.

There was little warning that Cameron was about to come. He didn’t knot Lev this time, instead just picking up his pace as his breaths quickened against Lev’s neck. Lev gave him a few seconds, but when Cameron was clearly just giving his last few thrusts, Lev squirmed, looking for more friction.

Cameron wrapped a hand around him, just tight enough Lev stilled. “Be patient,” Cameron told him, the alpha in his tone sending a shiver through him. “Nikolas is almost here.”

If that wasn’t enough, Cameron then caught Lev off guard by kissing him. Lev’s brain short circuited. In the several years they’d been together by now, Cameron had never kissed Lev. It was an invisible line they never discussed. Even Nik barely got kisses; they could count on one hand how many Nik had received from Cameron.

It took Lev a few seconds to kiss back, and when he did, he held absolutely still, afraid if he moved it’d break the moment. When Cameron pulled back, Lev blinked up at him. Per usual, Lev couldn’t quite interpret Cameron’s expression. The minutia escaped him on a good day, and right now Lev was dazed and turned on and overwhelmed in the best way. Rather than say anything Lev simply slid his hand down from Cameron’s hair to touch his cheek lightly.

For a moment Lev thought Cameron was pulling away, but he just sat them up. Lev only had a moment to mourn the loss of Cameron inside him before he realized Nik had joined them. He was given enough time to rub his cheek against Cameron before he was carefully handed off to Nik, who cheerfully informed him that the party had arrived, or something to that effect.

Nik had clearly been watching for at least a little bit; his erection demanded to be known as Lev settled on his lap. With that in mind, Lev pressed close, delighted to find Nik had already removed his clothes and there was nothing between them.

Someone’s hands lifted him up on his knees long enough they could ease Nik inside him. Once Lev was settled on Nik’s lap again, he wiggled until Cameron forced him down on Nik’s cock again. Nik swallowed his moan before it could escape. Lev deemed that acceptable, and pressed closer.

Between Cameron guiding Lev’s hips and Nik moving up against him, Lev was content to mouth his way up Nik’s neck, only pulling on Nik’s hair when Nik licked him in return. He could hear Nik chuckle at his whine. Someone’s hand wrapped around Lev. Cameron wouldn’t let him buck in encouragement. He had to endure the not-quite-enough strokes until Nik had had his fill, and when he tried to protest that, he found Cameron quite willing to bite down on his mating bite, making him go all weak limbed and all the more turned on.

By the time Nik lost his battle of wills with his own orgasm, Lev was letting out a constant stream of pleading whimpers, cock leaking steadily to emphasize his pleas. Once Nik’s thrusts became more erratic, and his moans metched Lev’s in intensity, the hand that had (up until this point) only been teasing him finally picked up until he came as well.

For a few moments Lev panted against Nik’s shoulder. Cameron slowly let go of the mating bite, but didn’t pull back until Nik and Lev finally stirred. Lev kissed Nik softly once, twice, and then braced his forehead against Nik’s. “Thank you,” he whispered. “Both of you.”

---

Lev still went downstairs to see Sazra, once a week. She was surprisingly patient with him, and he appreciated it. He didn’t need these check ups, not anymore, but she still let him come anyway, and they never took more than fifteen minutes anyway.

This was supposed to be one of those. A simple check in, yep, still healthy, yep, no further complications, and then he’d head upstairs and find something to do until Eden came home. It helped him feel better, having that little routine. Cameron must be rubbing off on him, he thought ruefully as he descended the stairs.

He gave a soft knock on the door to let her know he was there. “Hello?” He added unnecessarily.

“Come in,” she said, sounding as prudent as usual. “Shut the door behind you and sit down.”

Lev eased inside, and sat down obediently, knowing the door clicked shut softly behind him. “Thank you,” he said automatically.

She looked him up and down with those unnerving eyes, and squinted, but offered nothing more than a “Hm.”

Lev fought the urge to squirm, tucking his hands under his thighs. “Um. How was your day?”

“It was fine,” She said, folding her long brown fingers on the table, over her needle-work. “And how was yours?”

Lev gave a pleased hum, surprised she was tolerating his awkward small talk. “Mondays are always hard,” he admitted ruefully. “I miss Eden, but the quiet is nice. And since it’s only preschool, she’ll be home soon anyways.”

“Yes, she is… loud,” Sazra said. “The other one is preferable.”

“Cruz?” Lev blinked. “He is a lot sweeter,” he said, feeling guilty for even saying that. “But I like how much energy she has. It makes me feel younger.”

Sazra arched a brow. “You’re a child,” she said.

“I don’t always feel it,” he replied as a compromise.

“So you require the company of toddlers to feel your age?”

Sometimes she made it very obvious she was the one who raised Cameron. He bit back a sigh. “Not my age, but something closer.” After a short silence, Lev squirmed again. “I’m gonna stop talking. I don’t think I’m making my case very well.”

“Going,” she corrected. “You’re going to stop talking. But yes, I agree. You’d make a very poor lawyer. Best stick to childrearing.”

Lev decided to take that as a compliment of his childcare skills and just dipped his head in a nod. “Yes ma’am.”

After a few heartbeats of silence, Sazra pushed out of her chair and smoothed down her plain grey dress before moving to tie back her long black hair. “Let's get this over with,” she said, gesturing to the worktable for her clients. “Get up. Come.”

Lev trotted after her, getting settled as was their tradition at this point. With the small talk out of the way it was all the same routine that he was used to. Heartbeat, blood pressure, Sazra’s deft fingers checking him over with the same light pressure as always. This he knew what to expect from. All normal, and then he could head upstairs and see if he managed to get to cleaning Eden’s room before Cameron (unlikely).

Except-

Sazra paused, eyeing him with yet another look that reminded him so much of Cameron. “You seem to have a rather uncanny ability to be with child in such short amounts of time. Even for an angel. I assume you know what you should and should not be doing going forward?”

Lev blinked at her. And then blinked again. “I- already?” he blurted. “I haven’t- I haven’t even had another heat.”

Her eyes narrowed. “Are you suggesting you do not know how biology and pregnancy work?” she asked, rather bluntly.

“No, no of course not,” Lev assured her hastily. “I just- it was unexpected.” Even worse, he didn’t know how to feel. This time excitement tangled with dread, which twisted it’s way around hope, damn near strangling it.

“Were you not having unprotected intercourse with at least two different men?”

“Yes,” Lev said sheepishly.

“Well, you stupid boy, I don’t know what else you expected,” Sazra said. “I suggest you go deliver the news and leave me be, unless you have questions that only I can provide answers to.”

“No ma’am,” Lev said, sliding off the table. He headed for the door, pausing only to add, genuinely, “Thank you. I’ll see you next week.” Now he needed to go upstairs and tell the others. And then call Ash.

---

“And, so, yeah,” Lev finished into the phone in an awkward rush. “I thought I’d update you. Since I promised.”

The pause Ash gave made Lev feel even more awkward. “Yeah, no. Cameron called me half an hour ago,” he said, irritably, though it was tinged with amusement.

“I- oh.” Lev almost left it at that, but- “Hey. I was still having my usual check up with Sazra thirty minutes ago.”

“Clearly Cameron can see the future,” Ash deadpanned.

“Cameron always knows more than he should,” Lev grumbled, flopping in a chair. “How involved do you want to be? I didn’t want to assume you’d want to be here the whole time like you were for Nik; that’s a lot.”

“Well how much do you want me involved?”

“I trust you,” Lev said. “But I don’t want Sazra thinking I’d prefer your help over hers. I’d like you involved, but only if you’re able to work with her.”

“I can work with anyone,” Ash said. “Not everyone can work with me.”

“Ash,” Lev said tiredly. “Please?”

“I said what I said,” Ash said. “I can work with her if she can work with me.”

“Then I’ll ask her if she’s okay with it the next time I see you.” Somehow even phone calls seemed draining sometimes when it came to Ash.

“You do that,” Ash said. “Let me know what she says.”

“I’ll, uh. Text you.”

The definitive click told Lev Ash had hung up.

It hadn’t taken much at all before Nik popped his head in. “So… how did Mother Ash take the news?”

“I can’t tell,” Lev confessed. “He always seems cranky. Kinda like Cameron, honestly, but I’m not used to it so it’s a little more... unsettling.”

“Cameron is cranky, Ash is bitchy,” Nik corrected. “There is a difference, no matter how minute.”

“Either way, it wasn’t pleasant.” Lev tucked his phone away and stood up, moving to lean into Nik tiredly. “I think I got too hopeful last time. So- I’m trying to not be just yet.”

“Probably for the best,” Nik said.

Lev sighed, wrapping his arms around Nik. “Yeah.”

---

Despite Lev’s trepidation this pregnancy progressed normally. He couldn’t help how his hope grew with each day. He worked more slowly on picking out things for the nursery and he was quite sure Cameron was keeping notes. Rather than speak and put it into the world, Lev let him, tucking away his hopes and dreams between the sheets of paper.

His weekly checkups with Sazra now included Ash more often than not. That was certainly an interesting combination. He had practically mandatory snuggles after with either Nik or Darius, though. Stress wasn’t good for him, and he insisted they helped.

He was now sitting at one of those appointments, hands braced on the edge of the examination table. It was mostly routine still, and so he stared at the ground, lost in his own thoughts as he kicked his legs a little. “Are you staying for lunch, Ash?” he asked absently.

Ash’s fingers stopped moving across the papers he was reading. “If you want,” he said.

“Well I don’t want you to if you don't want to,” Lev said. “Cameron is making salmon.” And likely something completely different for dinner, too.

“Yeah, I can stay,” Ash said, starting his fingers across the page once more. “As long as he doesn’t, you know, poison me.”

“Well he hasn’t yet,” Sazra said. “If he were going to he’d have done so by now and save the rest of us the headache.”

“You live by yourself in a hole in the basement,” Ash replied, “I doubt you have much exposure to pleasant personalities in the first place.”

“Ash,” Lev scolded without thinking. “Be nice.”

“I’ll get right on that,” Ash said, “right after I get my eyesight back.”

Lev huffed in his direction, before turning to Sazra. “Today’s just a regular check up, right?”

“Yes,” she said. “Shouldn’t take much of either of our times.”

“Alright,” Lev said agreeably, shrugging out of his jacket so she could do as she needed. He scrunched up his nose at the cold of her stethoscope, but held still, letting her get everything checked that she needed to. They’d already checked his weight, and now his blood pressure, though she hadn’t said anything about either just yet.

“Hm.” Ash pursed his lips. “You do seem to have higher hCG levels than would be typical for how far along you are. I’ve seen it in a few other patients, and it’s not necessarily something you should be concerned with.”

Lev stared at him blankly, before looking at Sazra. “What does that mean?” he asked her.

“Possibility of duplicates,” she said, plainly.

“Twins?” Lev asked, just to be sure.

She blinked at him. “Is that not what I just said?”

“I just- just wanted to be sure I heard right,” Lev said faintly. “I- twins? Cameron only agreed to one.”

“Ah yes,” Ash said, “Because Cameron gets to dictate how biology and gestation and fetal development interact, I’ll be sure to make a point of that for reference.”

“Well he’ll damn well try,” Lev mumbled, before addressing Sazra again. “Is- is there anything I need to change to accommodate twins over just one?”

“Just keep doing what you’re doing,” she said. “However there is a bigger likelihood of delivering before your intended due date.”

“Oh. Right.” Lev nodded a little. “Okay.” He couldn’t help but think about Nik, but- Lev wasn’t even sure if he was allowed to leave for the birth. He hadn’t thought to ask. “I should- I should probably tell Cameron.” He paused. “Wait. Is- is it for sure twins or just a possibility?”

“Eh, about an 80/20 possibility,” Ash said.

“Oh. Then I should probably tell Cameron, for sure.” He started to get up, and then paused. “Or- is there anything else we need to check?”

“I think that’s all we’ll need for today,” Sazra said. “Just keep doing what you’re doing and I will see you in one week and not a moment before.”

“Translation: don’t bug her with stupid questions,” Ash said. “That’s clearly what I’m for.”

Lev resisted the urge to stick his tongue out, even if Ash couldn’t see it. “I’ll make sure to direct any other questions at you then,” Lev said instead, keeping his tone perfectly reasonable. “Especially since you’re staying for lunch.” He put on his hoodie, offered Sazra his traditional thanks, and then offered his arm to Ash.

Ash took his arm, and led them both carefully through the halls back upstairs. Cameron was finishing up preparing lunch and had their plates already set at the counter space. Nik was seated, chewing absently on a carrot while scrolling through his phone.

Lev led Ash to the table, waited until he was settled before waffling between sitting next to Nik or stealing a moment against Cameron. In the end he shuffled over to Cameron, leaning into him.

Nik’s head popped up and he reached for another stick of carrot. “So? What’s the verdict? Does it have two heads?”

Lev almost choked on air. He pulled back, flicking Cameron a glance, and then Nik a halfhearted glare. “I- no? I mean, technically- Ash and Sazra said there’s a- a solid chance it might be twins?”

Ash snorted, but offered no input. Nik merely rose a brow. “Oh?”

Lev stuffed his hands in his jacket pockets. “I didn’t expect twins,” he admitted. “I- I know you only agreed to one, but-” He blinked twice. “Other than that I’m still healthy, and Sazra said I could keep doing what I am now.”

“Well you better pick one early then,” Nik said, with severity. “Don’t want to get too attached too soon.”

Lev stared at him blankly. “What- Cameron wouldn’t-” Here he looked up at Cameron, not wanting to pull away any further. “You wouldn’t make me choose.”

Cameron seemed faintly amused at the idea, but just said, “Shut up and eat your food. I’ll make the proper arrangements.”

That was enough. Cameron didn’t lie to him, so he sat down next to Nik and ate as he’d been told. Even if he did kick Nik’s ankle lightly for stressing him out.

Nik hummed and put a cut up blueberry on Cruz’s tray. “He didn’t say no, Levant.”

Lev paused, fork halfway to his mouth. “What?”

The faint amusement on Cameron’s face had turned to irritation, but it was Ash that smacked Nik upside the head. “Will you shut up?”

Nik frowned at him. “Don’t use that kind of language in front of my baby.”

“Shut up isn’t bad language,” Lev muttered.

Nik pointed at him with his fork. “Watch your fucking mouth.”

Cameron rubbed his temples. “Shut up and eat your food, Nikolas.”

Lev smiled into his next bite, and just looked at Cameron. He thought about thanking him, but knowing Cameron that would only annoy him, and Lev rather preferred his annoyance aimed at Nik.

---

Sazra had been right, to say he’d likely go into labor early. Luckily Cameron had a room set up plenty of time in advance for this, as Lev was still on house arrest. And Lev was smart enough to not say he preferred it that way. He was at home in a room that smelled like his mate, his alpha, and himself.

The first baby had come easily, despite the fact that she’d been surprisingly large for a twin. He’d thought, because of that, the other might as well. He thought wrong, and that was how he found himself pacing on wobbly legs, too antsy to sit down even though he was starting to get exhausted.

Nik was watching Lev pace, holding the newborn who had calmed down after the trauma of being birthed, and did not seem to like how much Lev was pacing. Lev finished his circuit at his side, as he had all night. He ran his fingers over her hair, traced a single naked wing folded carefully along her spine.

“She’s so beautiful,” Lev mumbled, eyes watering despite himself. Despite how tired he was, despite how much birth hurt, he was so happy.

“She gets it from me,” Nik said.

Well. Lev had to admit neither he nor Cameron were particularly tan, and even at birth, this little girl had more color than he did. “I hope her sibling hurries along,” he said, dropping his forehead on Nik’s shoulder briefly.

“Well clearly hes busy,” Nik said. “I’ve read that it could take well over a day for a second twin to be born.”

“It’s not good for them if they do, though, is it?” Lev asked, looking to Sazra for confirmation.

“It is not.”

Lev nodded once, brushed a kiss to Nik’s temple, and started his pacing back to Cameron, pausing against furniture whenever a contraction hit him. Darius followed along diligently, a comforting and quiet strength at his side the entire time. He’d go back and forth like that until he needed to rest; he’d already taken several tonight, and that was enough for now.

---

The first had been born in the late afternoon, but it wasn’t until almost five in the morning that Lev had the second, a little boy that was quick to settle in his arms, his cries quieting quickly. Unlike the girl, he had a thick shock of dark hair, and pale skin that was much closer to Lev’s tone. His lack of wings betrayed who his father was quite easily.

Lev had simply been relieved to finally be done, and hold them both. He smiled tiredly at them. “Hi, little ones,” he whispered, not for the first time that night. Without looking up, he asked, “I hadn’t picked names yet. And none of them seem right anymore.”

Nik said, “Did you have any ideas?”

“My mother’s name was Silva,” Lev replied. He let Nik take her, mostly because it was an armful to hold both. “That doesn’t seem quite right.”

“That sounds like the name of a white middle school vice principal.”

Lev gave a wounded sound. “My mom was a good woman. Kind and-” He sighed. “It is kind of dated though.”

“By about two hundred years, at least,” Nik replied.

“More than that,” Lev admitted. “I’m- I’m too tired to think.” Even he could hear the whine in his tone. The little boy in his arms stirred in response, and Lev shushed him gently. Even as Lev soothed the baby, Darius tucked a curl of hair behind Lev’s ear, offering his own quiet comfort.

“I like Maritza,” Nik said. “Mari for short?”

“That’s a pretty name,” Lev said, leaning against Darius’ shoulder where he sat in the bed next to him opposite Nik. “I like it.”

Nik leaned over and looked at Cameron. “Come on, I named three-fourths of them, do your due diligence.”

Cameron’s eyes narrowed ever so slightly, but his attention slid to the babe. “Lonan.”

“Lonan,” Lev said, smiling again. He sniffled a little bit, and then sighed happily. “I like that one too.”

“I have good taste,” was all Cameron said, in a dry tone. Darius chuckled in Lev’s ear. Rather than say anything at all, Lev tugged at Nik until he leaned closer against him, wanting as many of his family close as he could manage. This, he decided, was worth all the heartache he’d been through. All of it.

---

Twins was a lot more work than singletons, Lev was coming to realize. Which isn’t to say he didn’t already know that, but there was a difference from knowing and knowing. Unlike with Cruz (who Nik had insisted on getting up for himself) or Eden (Lev did his best to keep from waking the others) Lev needed help when both of them woke up at the same time. This happened often, unfortunately.

Luckily there were four of them, and at the very least Cameron woke even easier than Lev, so he wasn’t in this alone. Nik sometimes rolled out of bed, but Lev felt bad, especially knowing how late Nik stayed up.

It was one of those nights. Mari had quickly been lulled to sleep by Cameron, but Lonan was content to stare in Cameron’s direction. Lev didn’t think babies could see that far at only a week old, but he didn’t mind. Lev adored staring down at his son’s eyes. They were striking, one the same white-blue of Cameron’s and the other a dark charcoal grey that Lev wasn’t sure where he got from. He could watch Lonan for hours, and Lonan seemed content to lay in his arms, wide awake but quiet, despite the early hour of the morning.

Lev eased into the rocking chair, shifting Lonan up to his shoulder. The baby didn’t seem upset, as he didn’t make a sound, instead snuffling against Lev’s neck and settling again. Lev switched his attention to Cameron, who was still swaying as he held Lonan’s twin. She was sleeping soundly, little wings twitching as she dreamed.

Likely those wings were why she woke herself and Lonan up. They’d started to grow their little down feathers, and that itched. It sent a pang though Lev sometimes, seeing them, but at least the feathers weren’t like his own. Instead, Mari took after Nik in that way as well, with a brilliant red color that immediately drew the eye. Somehow Lev doubted that was going to be the only thing she inherited from her Papi.

Cameron moving to put Mari in her crib dragged Lev from his musings. Lev checked on Lonan, and was surprised to see he was asleep. After a small sigh, Lev heaved himself to his feet, and settled Lonan in his own crib. He lingered long enough to stroke Lonan’s cheek, before turning to Cameron. He leaned into Cameron, not bothering to put his arms around him, just taking comfort from his closeness. After giving Cameron a soft kiss on the cheek, Lev whispered, “Thank you.”

He didn’t expect a response, and he didn’t get one, but Cameron let him take his hand and lead him back to the bedroom. They still had to get up early the next morning and do this day all over again, and any sleep was good at this point.