#thank you a thousand times over for sharing dear anon this warms my heart

[literaryvein-reblogs]

november feels like

texts unsent, a poem written

in someone else's name,

it feels like

days spent outside your body,

a month which lasts years;

it is

the resting place of

the person we sought to become in january -

why can't we seem to escape the monotony?

i love november:

rain, leaves, and snow -

sometimes, i'm glad it never ends, because

i don't want to die

only to wake up bearing the weight

of another year.

<3

The prompt

[bored-storyteller]

Oh Anon, thanks for the request. I should have waited, but it is a theme that I feel particularly close to now. Obviously, I don't pretend that this meets everyone's sensitivity, but I hope you like it.

Warning: we talk about death and mourning, angst / comfort with Leona

63- Twisted Wonderland, Leona Kingscholar x Reader

“Up on the stars “

That day of the year always comes. It doesn't matter how hard you try to forget it, or to continue your daily life as if nothing had happened. A little cricket in your head would always make you feel that weight in the back of your heart, and today it's the same.

Even if your everyday life has completely changed since you arrived at that school, even if it's all new and all strange to you, the feelings familiar to you have not been buried in your fantasies, unfortunately for you.

You really tried not to focus on that fact, but at the same time the suffering was all you had left.

It was the day of farewells, the day you finally realized how much loss must have frightened you. And today, despite being so far away, the knowledge that no matter how far you have traveled, you could have traveled a thousand worlds, but you could never see their smile again.

Under the transparent roof of the greenhouse, you are alone with yourself. Maybe you shouldn't stay like that, in the loneliness of the night, but it's like you feel out of place among people who you are not sure have the patience to bear your weight.

Your legs tighten to your chest in a feeble attempt to erase the loneliness, to feel at least a little the warmth of someone, of the embrace of those very loving arms towards you.

It's horrible when time takes a beloved voice out of your mind, and you try to remember the tone of it, their whisper and their laugh, but time and pain distort it. And you want to hear it again, to remember it, but you know you can never do it again.

What would you not give to do even one last thing with them? One last walk, one last tea with biscuits shared together, one last movie on the sofa, or even just a last greeting, anything that can transform that "farewell" into a "goodbye".

Affection survives death and turns pain into sweet memories over time, but despite everything it's still too early for you, and that sweet bond that binds you to them for you is just a thread dropped on the horizon, with no one to support him on the other side.

"What are you doing here, herbivore?"

A low but rough voice gives you a shiver down your spine. You don't really know what your stomach turmoil is causing, whether it's being discovered or simply because the pain continues to remain dull and heavy.

Leona's green eyes seem to glow in the night, just like those of felines, and they narrow on you in an act of concentration as she watches you.

"Why are you crying?"

He doesn't mince words, nor does he have sweetness in his voice, but you know him well enough by now to know that it's already kindness of him not to have roared at you to leave him alone.

"I ..." Your voice chokes in your throat. What words could you use? What could your feelings tell you?

Soon his back was turned to you. No wonder he wants to leave, he is not someone who insists or forces. It is the most logical thing to do to leave if you are there to be alone.

Yet, perhaps thanks to the darkness, it does not seem to you that he is just leaving. For a moment he disappears before your eyes. For a moment you imagine the void in his place, a huge void that you will never be able to fill.

"Leona!"

Your anguished voice makes him whirl around. The pain is so evident that not even the hardness of his heart can hide the worry.

He is not immediately by your side, he does not pull you into a warm and comforting embrace, he does not have sweet words of love for you. Yet his firm step approaches, and his gaze scrutinizes you from above.

"What's up?"

This time you can't help but answer his question. You have to tell him something, you have to. Not for him, but for you, you have to say something so that he doesn't leave. You don't want to say goodbye yet, you don't want to be left alone in the cold of the night, you don't want to endure it all alone.

"Today, some time ago, in the other world, a person dear to me died." Your voice came out clear, more than you expected, one last exhalation before the lump in your throat becomes present again.

It hurt to say those words, but with him you wanted to be honest, direct, just like him.

For a moment the silence spreads in the greenhouse, and you almost think you are wrong, to be alone again without you noticing it, but a rustle at your side gives you comfort.

The prince is now sitting next to you, his tail floats lightly behind your back and you can feel the warmth of his body. You always imagined that he was hot, like sand in the rays of the sun.

"How bad does it hurt?"

His question surprises you, but that painful tremor running through your bones is too massive for you to think about.

"As if a piece of my body had been ripped off."

Cruel, bloody, yet it was the most truthful thing. Part of you died that day. It didn't survive, a part of you disappeared and was buried with them. Life goes on, they told you, but you knew it wasn't quite true. Your life went on, but it was only a part of your life, that little part of your journey stopped there, in front of a tombstone. A tombstone that you cannot reach, as far as you are.

"It's normal, almost logical." Leona's response is not charitable, yet you feel it almost gentle, uttered in that low tone. He's not looking at you, his weight is resting on his palms firmly anchored to the ground behind him, and his eyes wander into the sky, beyond the glass surface of the greenhouse.

You don't really care that he pays attention to you, while he's there it means so much to you.

"Hey Herbivore ..." His voice resounds after a few minutes of silence, and despite the disregard of tone and nickname, there is a note unknown to you in it "you know ... it was once said that the great kings of the past look down on us from those stars. "

Your palm slides over your eyes to ward off tears and allow your pupils to reach his, lost in the sky.

"It's not just the great kings up there."

Suddenly, as if a bell had just tinkled next to your ear, the world - so different from yours - comes together, and you remember you are talking to Leona. He is certainly the person sitting next to you.

"Do you really believe this?" Your question is still broken and light, but now your gaze is only for him.

The lion returns it with a fleeting glance which, however, immediately flies up again, among unknown universes: "I never needed to do it."

Your gaze still insists on him, and he notices it, you understand it from that slight annoyed sigh that filters through his fangs: "Listen, I don't think anyone would ever bother to watch over me, but over you ..." The emerald green of his gaze warms you like a hearth "Who could ever stop being next to you?"

Those words pour out on you sweet and powerful alike. A new wave of tears threatens to flow but you don't have time for them, too caught off guard, too enchanted by something so tender and new.

It is not the words, it is that he said them, that suddenly make you feel weak and strong at the same time.

"Leona ..." You would like to talk again, but an extremely familiar touch touches your arm.

It's a fleeting touch, but warm and affectionate, a touch you have long wanted to feel again.

You turn around to meet their loving fingers, but all you see is the lion's tail moving slowly in the darkness. It's not a disappointment for you though.

You are not disappointed even when you notice something known in Leona, something so loved and sought after that for a moment you almost believe that they are really there, in front of you.

They and Leona have nothing to do with each other, they could not even have imagined his existence. Yet the affection for you that navigates his gaze at this moment is the same as they had.

Suddenly you realize that perhaps Leona is right. Maybe they are the only person in your world able to be next to you, placing a little of their love for you in the hearts of those around you.

Slowly you let your eyelids drop as your body bends down. Your head rests in Leona's lap, and he doesn't do anything to push you away.

He does not give you sweet caresses, nor reassure you of his presence, but his tail rests silently on your side, in sweet security.

[the-most-slytherin-hufflepuff]

Chapter 8

Here is your poorly scheduled dose of O’knutzy. As always credit for the characters goes to @lumosinlove. The fic was inspired by @heyitssmiller and her anons :)

Masterlist

TW: mentions of blood and injury

TW: hinted abusive relationship and past abuse

The first thing Leo noticed when he woke up was how warm he felt. There was a comforting weight on either side of him. He sighed contentedly, letting himself melt into the feeling of Logan’s arms and the rhythm of Finn’s even breathing. 

He lifted his hand to trace Finn’s face lightly, a soft smile appearing on his lips when he felt Logan trailing kisses across his shoulders. “Good morning, Le.” 

Leo smiled when Logan came up to kiss him properly. “Morning”. 

“Can I get kisses?” Asked Finn, voice heavy with sleep. 

Leo pretended to think about it making Finn pout. He smiled before kissing them. A goofy smile appearing on Finn’s lips when they parted, “I love my life.” 

Leo did too. It had been two days since they had first kissed him. The best two days of his life. He couldn’t remember a time where he had been so happy, or had felt so loved. 

“Today is my birthday”, he said nonchalantly. “Oh my god today is my birthday.” He said again, this time with more excitement. 

“Happy birthday sweetheart.” Finn said softly, kissing his cheek. 

Logan draped himself over Leo’s back, his arms around his shoulders. “Happy birthday starlight”, he whispered before pressing a kiss to Leo’s jaw and lips. 

“What do you want to do?” 

Leo turned to look at Finn, but didn’t answer. His mind couldn’t concentrate on anything that wasn’t Logan’s lips on his neck. He whined softly making Logan chuckle. “I thought we were going to see the stars.” A kiss to his shoulder. “Isn’t that why you made us bring you here in the first place?” A kiss behind his ear. “It would be a shame if you made the trip and didn’t get to see them.” Logan kissed his lips, Leo’s eyes fluttering shut. The sight of his boys kissing still made Finn’s heart stutter. 

Some incoherent string of yes and sure was the only think Leo managed to say before being kissed by Finn. Their kiss was sweeter, less teasing than Logan, but no less perfect. 

Getting ready was a haze of tender kisses and sweet smiles. Leo was sure he could stay in that morning forever and be completely content. 

The three of them spent the day with June and Heather. Going through the market and visiting some of their favorite places. When night started to set they said goodbye to the girls. Leo promising to help June with one of her projects. 

Logan grabbed one of Leo’s hands, tangling their fingers together and pulling him away from the market and towards the docks. “Where are we going”, Leo asked, giggling at his boyfriend’s antics. 

“It’s a surprise.” 

Leo looked behind him to ask Finn where they were going, but they weren’t there. “Where’s Fish?” Logan just grinned at him. It did absolutely nothing to calm his suspicion. 

When they reached the docks Leo let out a soft gasp. “Get in”, Finn said motioning to the small boat. 

“What is this?” 

Finn smiled softly at Leo, taking his hand to help him get on. “We promised to take you to see the stars. This is our little tradition, and now”, they kissed Leo lightly, “it’s yours too.” 

Leo smiled. He turned to look at Logan who was looking at them with soft eyes. “I-” the words got stuck in his throat, he loved them both so much. He had thought love like this would hurt, but it was as easy as breathing. “Thank you”. The words were barely a whisper. 

Logan smiled brightly, taking one of Leo’s hands in his and kissing his knuckles. “It’s getting dark”, he looked at Finn and nodded slightly. 

The boat started moving towards the center of the lake. Leo looked around the calm surface of the water, the darkening sky making it look all shades of dark blue and purple. He extended an arm to touch the water, the contact sending ripples through the stillness. Finn took a flower out of his hair and placed it on the now calm surface. 

A soft gasp left Leo’s lips when he saw it. The reflection of a small lantern glowing against the dark lake. Logan kissed his temple, arms wrapping around his waist. Leo leaned against him, his eyes trained in the lantern’s reflection as a hundred others joined it. “Look up baby.” Logan said softly. 

Leo did, the sight of a thousand small lanterns floating in the sky taking his breath away. “Leo”, he heard Finn whisper. He turned to look at them, a smile taking over his face when he was what they were holding. 

“When did you get these”, he said pointing to the lanterns in Finn’s arms. 

“Heather got them for me.” They handed one to Leo and the other to Logan. “We thought you would like to join tradition.” 

Leo smiled adoringly at them. “Thank you.” He looked to Logan, placing a soft kiss to his forehead. “Both of you.” 

Now that all three of them had a lantern in their hands they released them into the air gently. They kept floating up, dancing around each other until they joined the others. Illuminating the world around them in soft hues of gold and orange light. 

Leo looked between Logan and Finn, their faces bathed in starlight. Something clicked into place in his heart. I love you, he thought. 

Leo was the first to get out of the boat when they reached the other side of the small lake, helping Logan and Finn so they wouldn’t fall. They walked for a bit, sharing kisses and careless laughter, overwhelming happiness taking over Leo’s senses. 

“Leo, dear”, came a woman’s voice from the shadows, her tone laced with a fake sweetness. “What are you doing so far from home sweetheart.” 

Leo stopped in his tracks, looking around for the woman, the happy feeling he had mere moments ago withering to nothing. He didn’t like the way sweetheart sounded in her voice. That word was Finn’s. He flinched when he felt someone’s hand on his shoulder. He turned to look at who it was, only to be met with Logan’s worried eyes. “Are you okay Le?” 

“Leo”, the woman’s voice said hauntingly. 

Finn came to stand besides Leo, shoulders tense. They laced their fingers with his in silent reassurance. “Who is that?” They whispered into Leo’s ear. 

“Walburga.” Leo said it loud enough so that the woman could hear him. He saw Logan’s eyes widen and turned around to where the other man was staring. Walburga stood in her green long sleeved dress and black cape, a smile on her face. It may have looked welcoming if Leo couldn’t see the rage in her eyes. 

“What are you doing out of the tower, love. You know it’s not safe out here.” The barely suppressed anger in her voice made Leo flinch. 

“How did you find me?” Finn noticed how small Leo made himself sound. This was nothing like the man they had met at the tower or the man they had spent almost a week with. The change in demeanor made them hate Walburga even more. 

“Oh that”, she waved her hand dismissively, “the Carrows are incredibly whiny. And imagine my surprise when they complained about a pair of brats that stole from them with the help of a blonde boy with incredibly long hair.” 

Leo winced. Logan wanted nothing more than to hug him and hide him away from the world. 

“Of course after they mentioned you were heading to Gryffindor I came as soon as I could.” She continued. “Slytherin wasn’t so far away, it seems I got here just in time.” She sent a dark look towards Finn and Logan. 

“What? No warm welcome for your mother?”

Leo didn’t answer, he didn’t meet her gaze. He stood there, looking at the ground, thinking of a way to escape. His mind had gone numb, a blanket of fear falling over him like it always did every time he saw her. 

 She looked disappointed. “It’s alright”, Leo knew it was anything but, “let’s go back home and we can forget you broke my rules.” He knew she wouldn’t forget. 

Finn let go of his hand in favor of stepping in front of Leo. “He isn’t going anywhere with you.” 

Walburga laughed. The sound put Logan on edge. “Is that so.” She began stepping around Finn. Logan saw it too late, the glint of steel that dropped from Walburga’s sleeve into her hand. 

The woman plunged the dagger into the space between Finn’s ribs knocking the breath out of them. A white hot pain spread through their body making them scream. 

Logan caught Finn before they could fall, settling them down on the ground gently, cradling their body against his and taking the knife out, wincing at Finn’s pained scream. When Logan looked back up at Leo he saw Walburga holding him back, her nails digging into his arms. 

“Finn!” Leo screamed, his tone laced with anguish and rage, trying to break away from the woman’s grasp. Walburga’s nails etched half moons into Leo’s arms, almost breaking skin with how much he was struggling. “Let me go.” 

Walburga put a small knife to Leo’s throat, making him freeze. “Stop moving”, she hissed into his ear.

He leaned away from the blade and tried to look her in the eye. “Please let me heal him. Please.” He didn’t care that he was begging. Finn was dying. He had to save them, even if it meant he would lose Finn and Logan. “Let me heal them and I’ll go with you. I won’t struggle and I won’t complain. I swear.” 

She gave him a blank look. He met her dark cold eyes, pleading with her silently. “Very well”, she said coldly, “you can heal the boy.” 

Leo wanted to slap her. For stabbing Finn, for calling them a boy, for every single thing she had done to all three of them in the last few minutes. But he didn’t. The moment he felt the cold of the knife leave his neck he ran to the most important people in his life, kneeling besides Finn, their blood seeping into his pants from where it had started accumulating in the ground. 

“You’ll be ok baby.” Leo felt tears already prickling behind his eyes. “I promise.”

Finn looked down at the dagger on their hand. They looked up at Logan, a question in their eyes. Logan nodded, Walburga wanted Leo for what he could do, for a power he hadn’t chosen to have. She wouldn’t get him, not if Finn and Logan had any say in the matter. 

They lifted their hand to rest at the nape of Leo’s neck, pulling him in for a kiss. Finn could taste the salt of the tears that had started to fall down both their faces. “I’m sorry”, they muttered against Leo’s lips. 

Leo didn’t have time to react. He felt Finn’s hand grab his hair tightly and cut it with the edge of the dagger he was holding. A gasp left Leo’s lips. He watched gold turn a deep shade of brown. “No”, he whispered, realization settling over him and making his blood run cold. “Finn what-”.

Whatever he was about to say got cut off when he heard Walburga scream. A painful ragged scream that made him shiver. Leo watched her look at the now brown hair with a horrified expression, unable to tear his eyes away. Her skin had turned pale and wrinkled, her dark curls became wisps of white. She flipped the hood of her cape over her eyes, an agonizing wail escaping her chapped lips. Her knees gave out, no longer able to hold her up. She was dust before her knees hit the ground. 

Leo turned to look at Logan when he heard him sob. He was hunched over Finn’s frail body, an ocean falling from his eyes. A pained sound tore itself from Leo’s lungs, “Why?” Leo felt like he was drowning. “Finn why?”

“We couldn’t see you get hurt Le.” Leo looked at Logan. “You couldn’t have healed Finn and escaped.” Logan tried to swallow down the tears. “She would have gotten to you.”

“Finn is going to-”, he couldn’t make himself say it. It would make it too real. 

“I would rather die than see you back in her clutches Leo.”

“I can’t lose you Finn.” Leo’s breath stuttered. “I don’t want to live without you. I can’t exist in a world where you aren't by our side.”  

Leo locked eyes with Finn, the tears flowing down his cheeks like twin rivers blurring his vision. “You can’t leave us Finn.” A sob escaped Logan’s lips, his arms tightened around Finn, pulling them closer. “You promised”, Leo could barely speak through the tears, “you promised nothing could take you away.”

Finn placed the hand that wasn’t holding Logan’s on Leo’s flushed cheek. Leo covered it with his own, trying to hold Finn closer, maybe then he could stop them from slipping away. “I love you Leo.” 

A heart-wrenching sob ripped itself from Leo’s chest, he hated Walburga for making those words so heartbreaking. He hated her for making his life miserable. Hated her, because the moment he found a reason to be happy she came and ripped it away from him.

 Leo felt something settle into his heart, into his very soul. 

“I’m not letting her take you away from us”, a determined edge had overtaken the grief in his tone. “I’m not letting her take my happiness away.”

Logan gasped. The air around Leo seemed alight with power. When the other boy looked up his eyes glowed a brilliant gold, the tears flowing down his face reflecting the tendrils of light that were wrapping themselves around Finn. The soft light disappeared slowly, leaving nothing but a silver scar where the wound used to be. “Leo.” Logan couldn’t say much else, couldn’t think about much else. 

Leo looked at Finn, tears of relief rolling down his cheeks. They sat up with a wince, putting a hand on Logan’s shoulder to stabilize themselves. Finn looked between Logan and Leo with a weak smile. They placed a hand on Leo’s cheek, chuckling softly when he leaned into it. “Did I ever tell you guys I’m really into brunettes”, they said tiredly, fingers tangling in Leo’s brown shoulder length hair. 

Logan made a noise, something between a laugh and a sob and tackled Finn. Hugging them tightly and kissing them. Finn’s other arm wrapped around Logan’s waist, a giddy laugh bubbling out of them. 

Leo got closer to them, pressing along their side and hugging them close. He nuzzled his face into Finn’s shoulder, placing soft kisses along their neck and jaw. “I love you too.” He looked at Logan, “I love you both so much.” 

Logan melted a little at that. He detached himself from Finn so he could kiss Leo. “I love you.” Another kiss. “There aren’t enough stars in the sky to measure how much I love you two.” 

They sat there a while longer, tired from the ordeal they had just gone through. Logan was the first to get up, giving his hand to Finn to help them up. Then he helped Leo stand and kissed him softly. Finn hugged them, the warmth from both of them helping the last of the tension melt from Leo’s body. “Come on”, Logan said softly, “let’s go home.” 

Leo nodded. They were going to be ok. Walburga was gone, she couldn’t hurt him anymore. Couldn’t hurt his loves anymore. They were going to be ok.

[cherryjuicegf]

do you have any geraskier fic recs?? I have some time on my hands since it's Christmas and I'm kinda curious to know what fics are you fave and stuff xx

dear anon i have to thank you from the depths of my heart for this cause i've been dying to make a rec list and always put it off so it's finally time. now this got just a bit long, i have about 20 fics that have a special place in my heart under the cut with a sort commentary. sorry if you've read any of them but i will be extremely happy if you find something you like!!! 💜

under 1k

gallery by Naughty-Yorick (@a-kind-of-merry-war), G, 387 words -> modern au, reincarnation, this ficlet although short broke my heart and put it back together, i literally gasped in the end

sip the sunlight from your eyes by troubadore (@geraltofriviasleftbuttcheek), G, 905 words -> the beauty of this fic leaves me stunned, geralt's eyes are gorgeous and the fic describes it perfectly, jaskier knows what he signed up for

1k - 10k

right person in front of them the whole time by lesdemonium(winnerstick) (@lesdemonium), T, 2k -> this fic is a modern au and i just have no words to describe how much i love it. the inherent romance of knowing the other deeply and sharing the same love and also the same one braincell just got to me.

also recommending everything by the same author, M, 8k -> this fic is 40% the reason my relationship standards reach heavens, it's just so tender and the affection between geralt and jaskier just warms my heart

beautiful, he stirs up still things by alittlebitmaybe, T, 2.5k -> this fic?? slow dancing and gentleness and pining, so much pining, it just makes me scream in my pillow every time

another dawn by the same author, T, 8k -> a fic with vivid memories, reading it at 2am and having to wake up early in the morning, the first time loop i read and it had me screaming every. single. time. if you're patient it's worth a thousand rereads

like real people do by julek (@julek), T, 1.5k -> this fic is unbelievably tender, it just has me in tears with all its yearning and not-so-unrequited love, 1000% rec

i wouldn't know what i have lost (i'll be howling for you) by kaffas (hoopoe), T, 3.2k -> epistolary fic, it just makes me scream because of geralt's devotion and the mortifying ordeal of being known etc and the understanding between them just has me in tears

soap suds and capable hands by ivelostmyspectacles, T, 4.3k -> this fic makes me warm and sleepy, it's so sweet and soft, read it before you sleep for sweet dreams

summer sun and solstice shadows by ninemelodies (@ninemelodies), T, 6.2k -> THIS. ONE. FAVE. i first read it in summer and it's my comfort fic, they love each other so much and there's flower symbolism, the perfect amount of angst, pining and love, so much love my heart melts

love on his tongue by kickassfu (@kickassfu), G, 1.8k -> the pining and flirting in this one makes me weak, they dance in a ball as pray for a monster and it makes me grin so hard

a heartbeat in hand by asweetepilogue (@asweetprologue) G, 2.6k words -> this fic is so poetic, so smooth and soft and the ending just kills me, it's perfect

all that was good, all that was fair (all that was me is gone) by xdandelionxbloomx (@xdandelionxbloomx), M, 7.5k -> please mind the warnings in this one, you really need a strong stomach to read it. however, i remember this one and it just makes me gasp, it breaks my heart in a million pieces and the ending is so cathartic. also whenever i listen to the songs in it i think about the scences and. i cry.

kintsukuroi by arsamandi (@love-and-cubs-and-white-wolves), T, 4.2k -> this one was posted today and it had me in awe, it's book!geralt with show!jaskier personalities and has some time of contempt spoilers so i'm sorry if you want to avoid them, however i had to recommend because it's one of the best fics i've read, every single line is exceptionally good and so well-written, it made me cry and laugh and i can read it a thousand times more

over 10k

all the liars in the world by kageygirl (@kageygirl), E, 14k -> i have such vivid memories of this fic, i was returning from a trip and it was 1am, top bunk in the cabin with my parents and sister sleeping, trying not to be heard while i was gasping and crying, it's incredibly sweet and soothing, it fills me with happiness

the power to cancel his captivity by the same author E, 23k -> i'm so soft for this fic, it takes geralt and jaskier's relationship from the start and describes how they settle together during the years, it made it so much easier for me to cherish their relationship and it has a special place in my heart

what you wish for by didoandis, E, 11.1k -> i rarely read body swap fics but this is not really that, it's so interesting and angsty and also funny in many parts, the emotion in this just captivates you and the end left me gaping

multichapters

companionship by ArliaDevi, T, 14k, complete -> this one? excellent. incredible. absolute gold. ciri's pov and geralt and jaskier's awkwardness and attempts at hiding are hilarious, i love it with my whole being

lessons in mortality by Girl_In_Red_Crossing (@girl-in-red-crossing), E, 21k, complete -> ahhh this fic is just so so good, it's angsty at the start and the classical jaskier heals after he's tortured but it's wonderfully written and makes my heart ache just to fill it with more and more love with each chapter

demand an encore by Emamel (@theaceace), M, 51k, unfinished -> maybe you have already read this but i have to express my love for it, i don't read witcher!jaskier fics but this one is just amazing, keeping me on the edge of my seat at all times, each phrase a literal dagger in my heart and i'm dying to see how it ends

[violet-knox]

Severus learns that his girlfriend is related to McGonagall. (Grandmother, great aunt, etc.

Christmas Surprise

Warnings: some naughty touching but no smut 

Word Count: 5627

A/N: I spent a sold minute laughing my ass off imagining Severus’ face when he finds out MC is related to a Gryffindor LOL Thank you so much for the request anon, you made my day

Two hours into the train ride and already you’d begun to feel nostalgia creep its way into your mind. It had barely been five years since you graduated and yet it felt like you were there just yesterday. Of course, owling your boyfriend, reading about all the troublemaking students he taught and the many many lecture outlines he’d gifted you likely took part in your constant attachment to Hogwarts since you left. But when you received that letter from aunt Minvera, well, how could you say no to a surprise visit to your old school during the holidays. The luck you’d been given, holding a ministry position in the Restricted Travels Department had never paid off as much it had now, the familiar sight of the cottage below, all thanks to the strings you pulled for this special trip. No doubt your aunt was just as ecstatic as you, judging by her last, lengthy letter speaking of all the wondrous things she was going to plan for you. 

You weren’t sure what you were looking forward to the most; the look on Severus’ face when he saw you, catching up with your aunt or visiting all your old favourite spots at Hogwarts. You couldn’t even remember the last time you’d spoken with your aunt face to face and you were beyond excited to see if she still had that menacing look on her face when she caught a misbehaving child or if Severus had taken over the role as the school’s scariest Professor. 

He’d told you many tails of his classroom adventures over the few months you’d been dating, each more dramatic than the last and every single one of them ending the same way, with one of his infamous punishments of detention or removal of house points. But every once in a while, his dislike towards Gryffindors would show through when he’d tell you about the empty threats he’d made to jinx one of them if they didn’t stop their foolishness. Little did he know he was speaking to a Gryffindor legacy. Well, that bubble was sure to pop soon now that there was no hiding your family ties to the Head of Gryffindor. 

The closer the train got the more you wanted to jump out and fly there yourself. Has the train always been this slow or did time run faster when you were wasting it away catching up with your friends about what you’d done over the summer? You slowly walked down the corridors of the train, peeking into every empty compartment that looked oddly clean considering the thousands of children it carried to and from Hogwarts every year. You missed the trolley that strolled down this shaggy carpet, offering just a small taste of what Honeydukes had to offer. Oh how you hoped you’d pay Hogsmeade a visit on your trip and perhaps go on a proper date with Severus, conversing in person over dinner or a cup of tea. Anything more than the restricted interaction you’d gotten these last few months would be a blessing, even if it was something as simple roaming down the halls of the castle, hand-in-hand.

Come to think of it, you had never really gone out together since those first two weeks you’d started dating. You’d always be too busy with work and Severus never wishing to do more than have you over, eating dinner and listening to you speak about your day as you cuddled in bed together. It was a wonder he hadn’t asked you to move in yet. Maybe a day in the village, drinking tea and sharing biscuits in Madam Puddifoot’s tea shop would do your relationship some good.

The train vibrated against the tracks below your feet as you closed your eyes, smiling as you recalled all the trips you’d made to Hogwarts, sitting in one of these compartments and dreaming of what new adventure awaited you at the end of the line. This time felt so much different. You were all grown up now; a young and successful Ministry Official, dating an equally talented Wizard and the only thing offered at the end of these tracks now were a simple look into the past, a prowl down memory lane. No new adventure awaited, no classes to look forward to or Professors you dreaded to see, just glee and amity.

Finally, the train began to slow down and you couldn’t stop yourself from pressing your nose to the window, hands against the cold glass, fogging with each breath you exhaled. Your eyes landed on the village first before the train finally stopped and you could see the castle in the far distance. Your heart beat furiously against your chest, your excitement at its peak. Quickly grabbing hold of your luggage, you made your way to the lonesome carriage your aunt had mentioned in her letters would be waiting for you. 

The ride towards the castle was even more torturous than the train as the cold breeze so easily swept from between the cracks of the door and windows. Looking forward, you squinted, unable to believe the carriages had been pulled by Thesterals all those years you were a student at Hogwarts and you just couldn’t help but whisper an empty apology for once trying to charm the carriage to go faster in your fifth year, unaware of the damage it likely caused to the creatures. Your job had truly been a blessing, all the knowledge you’d been given, the responsibility and the pay. Merlin, how generous they were to offer you such a paycheck at such a young age.

“(Y/N)!” Her voice reached your ears before the carriage even began slowing down, but the second you’d passed through those gates, heading straight for the Main Entrance, you could see a tall witch waving at you. Your aunt never was one for subtly, but you’d never seen her so excited before now and it warmed your heart knowing she must have missed you just as much as you had her.  

“Auntie!” You shouted, completely leaving your composure behind as you stepped outside the carriage and began making your way towards her. You both sped towards each other, greeting one another with a tight, long overdue hug.

“Oh, it’s so good to see you dear!” You smiled as you took in the familiar scent of the castle swirling in the air. This felt much more like home than the empty lifeless apartment you’d come back to every night. If only you’d be lucky enough to feel this sense of comfort more often.   

“Likewise! It’s been too long!” You both finally loosened your grip on one another, taking in the very small differences you spotted on your aunt’s face from the last time you’d seen her and oh how unnoticeable they were. She’d aged so well, just like many of her close relatives had and you hoped whatever gene they all shared was passed on to you. Her hair was still as dark as you remembered, not a grey strand in sight and though her eyes weighed heavily on her soul, displaying all the agony and sorrow she’d gone through over the years, she still looked as young as ever.

“Come, you must be exhausted,” Minerva ushered you towards the castle and you looked up at the sky to realize the moon had already proudly displayed itself amongst the sea of darkness. The worst part about winter had to be the shortened days, but at least the castle was kept warm, away from the breeze you felt outside it’s gates. 

“Filch would you please?” You looked back as aunt Minvera gestured towards your luggage asking the caretaker to carry them inside where you were surprised to see a rather shaggy looking cat, protectively standing beside Mr.Filch, eying you like some intruder. The poor man. You’d never paid him much attention in your school days and even now, you’d been so focused on your aunt, you hadn’t realized she’d brought company with her to greet you. You couldn’t believe the same man you always went out of your way to avoid, the man you’d never shown a sliver of respect was now carrying your bags and as your aunt bid you farewell in the Entrance Hall, making her way to retire to her own chambers, leaving you alone with him you felt all the more guilty for the way you’d seen Filch in the past. 

Turning your attention to him, you tried to force a smile on your face, feeling the joy and excitement simmer away the more he and his equally as intimidating cat peered into your eyes.

“Right, this way Ma’am. Professor Sprout was kind enough to find you an empty chamber in the basement,” he said as he gripped onto your bag and turned towards the door leading to the basement.

“Actually,” you stopped him in his tracks, biting your bottom lip. “If you don’t mind, could you help me find Professor Snape’s chambers instead?”

Your request didn’t seem to sit all too well with the caretaker, though judging by the expression on his face, you’d say he looked more so confused than anything else. Finally, you found the strength to offer him the smallest of smiles, hoping it would encourage him to fulfill your request without the need for questions. The last thing you wanted was to tell this man of your relationship when your own aunt likely had no idea you were dating one of her coworkers.

“Er- Of course,” he hesitantly obliged and turned to make his way towards the dungeon instead. You followed shortly after, avoiding his cat’s path as you walked slightly behind him. “I should warn you, Professor Snape doesn’t take kindly to visitors knocking on his door so late at night.”

His tone was serious of course, even holding a little concern for you underneath his words, but you couldn’t help the small chuckle echo through your throat and escape your lips. Severus had been quite the intimidating man himself when you first met, but that hard shell of his had melted away in your eyes long ago and you’d almost forgotten how others must perceived him. 

“Of course he doesn’t,” you responded, more so to yourself than anyone else. 

It wasn’t long before Filch slowed to a complete stop, placing your luggage on the ground in front of the last door at the end of the hallway you’d followed him down. You’d never explored this part of the castle before and it really had you realizing just how large the school was and how much time it was going to take for Severus to show you each and every inch of it. (Oh yes, you were going to make him play tour guide during your visit here, how could you not).

“Thank you,” you said, simply standing there in the hopes he would take the hint and leave before he knocked on the door himself and ruined the surprise you’d been planning for the last two months. Luckily for you, the man’s patience had clearly run out as he went to pick up his cat and walk away, mumbling something about strange behaviour and mannerisms to himself (or the cat, dealers choice really).

You waited until he was completely out of sight before knocking three times on the door in front of you. Your grin widened with anticipation, waiting for that moment the door opened. You could only imagine the look on his face; complete and utter shock followed by a loss of words. He was as predictable as a Muggle children’s book.

Holding your knuckles up to the door, you were about to rap on it again after a moment of silence before you suddenly began to hear some subtle rustling from the other side. Lowering your hand, you leaned your head forward, turning your ear towards the door when the noises stopped and you heard the doorknob turn as a familiar voice seeped right through the wood barrier between you.

“What could possibly be so urgent that-” Severus had begun his scolding before he’d even pulled the door open, but once his eyes met yours, he began wishing he could swallow back those words he let so easily roll off his tongue. “(Y/N)?”

“Hi Sev,” you suppressed a giggle as you watched his eyes widen, his mouth hanging open as he froze there in shock, just as you’d imagined he would. 

“What-what are you doing here?” He managed to stumble out as he finally began to process your presence. It felt like another dream and who knew, perhaps it was all just a dream but Merlin how he prayed it was real. He’d never felt as lonely as he did than in these past few months, owling you yet unable to touch you, feel you, see you. He’d gone to bed every night recalling the feeling of your head laying against his chest, cuddling up to him. He’d retire to his chambers every day, imagining what it would be like to find you sitting there on the couch with a book in hand, waiting to hear how his classes had gone. 

“Don’t tell me you aren’t glad to see me,” you teased. “Do you have someone else in there, a secret lover I don’t know about or-”

Yup this was definitely real, and he was certainly not dreaming. Grabbing your waist, he pulled you in, cutting your words mid-sentence and held you as tightly as he could. All it took was a whiff of your scent for him to push you deeper into him, desperate to satisfy the starved feeling that had grown in his chest the second he’d left you for Hogwarts in September. 

You could hardly breath with the death grip he had around you, but you didn’t care. You’d missed the feeling of his nose brushing against your skin as he buried his face in the crock of your neck. Your arms immediately wrapped themselves around his neck, your fingers finding their place between his locks (that seemed a lot greasier than usual). You didn’t care about the world around you so long as he held you as close as he did now.

“I missed you,” you said, loosening your grip and encouraging him to do the same, just enough to see his face.

“I can’t believe you’re here.” The surprise in his tone remained, even when his voice dropped to an almost near whisper. “But why have you come? Are you here as a Ministry Official?”

“No, Sev.” You giggled at his assumption, cupping his cheek with one hand, looking deep into his eyes to watch them sparkle when you told him your attention for the next two weeks were for him and him alone. “I wanted to surprise you! I’m here for the holidays.”

His lips slowly stretched into a smile as you spoke. Christmas wasn’t for another few days, yet he felt like he was experiencing a miracle right now. He couldn’t believe you were here, that you’d gone out of your way to spend the holidays with him. Hope settled in as he imagined you sitting by his side during meals, spending Christmas together as opposed to all the previous years where he’d spent the day reorganizing the Potions storeroom instead as a distraction for the glee spreading through the castle like an infection. 

He let his hands slide up and down your sides, his eyes roaming the features of your face in admiration. His smile grew wider with each moment that passed and he suddenly became very thankful you’d arrived so late into the night; heaven forbid a student walk passed you right now and witness the joy written all over his face. But he couldn’t help it. He cared for you, he loved your company and your touch even more. 

Unable to hold back his urges any longer, he roughly pressed his lips to yours, desperate for the affection he couldn’t stop craving since your very first kiss. Your taste was a drug he could never get enough of and tonight was no exception. 

You hummed in delight, moving your lips with his as you felt him claw at your jacket. Frustrated with the thick layers between you, he quickly moved one hand to pull on the zipper keeping him from you, giving him room to slip his hand under your jumper and feel the warmth of your skin. Parting for air, he trailed kisses down your jaw, latching himself to the crook of your neck. You could hardly process his movements as he pressed you deeper into him with one hand, the other moving down your side until you felt his thumb begin to rub taunting strokes on your hip. 

“Looks like I’m not getting any sleep tonight am I,” you chuckled, accepting his welcome as you closed your eyes. Your smile only grew wider when he mumbled against your skin and began stepping back into his chambers, pulling you with him.

Somehow, the move from the corridor to his room evaporated what little space was left between you both and you could feel his excitement grow through his trousers. Tugging on his hair, you pulled him from your neck and crashed your lips into his, distracting him enough to slowly trail your fingers down his chest without his notice. The moment he let out a soft moan against your lips, you began to unbuckle his belt, slowly unzipping his trousers, bringing his attention to where your hands had snuck to. 

Severus felt himself leaning into the moment, ready to push you onto the couch and make up for the lack of physical contact these last few months until he felt you suddenly pull away from your kiss and take a step back. He opened his eyes to see his belt in your hands, as you gave him a devious smirk. 

“Mind bringing in my luggage?” You bit on your lip to keep from giggling at the stunned look on his face as you gestured to the abandoned baggage behind the half open door. 

Severus stood there starstruck before letting out a small groan in protest as he went to zip up his trousers and make his way around you to the door. You watched him irately pull at his robes, satisfied with your aim to tease him and quickly made your way to the bedroom as he went to go retrieve your forsaken belongings. His patience completely ran out as he watched you scurry to his bed when he’d turned back around. He dropped your bags the second he stepped an inch back into his chambers, lazily pushing the door closed and ran after you without looking back.  

You woke up the next morning, freezing every inch of your body, but of course, what more would you expect from the chamber hidden in the deepest corner of the Hogwarts dungeon. Rolling over, you let your hand travel through the sheets until you felt the familiar narrow form of your boyfriend, offering you the only bit of warmth in the room.  

“You’re up early,” Severus said, shifting in his place as you comfortably snuggled into his side. He sounded so tired; you could only assume you’d woken him up earlier than what he was used to.

“It’s freezing cold Severus, how do you sleep in here,” you said with sleep still hanging from the edge of your voice as you nuzzled into his neck and closing your eyes. 

Severus snuck a hand under you, pulling you in close as he tugged on the covers so that they were over your bare shoulders. Normally he’d be absolutely enraged at being woken up so early especially after a long night of patrolling the halls, looking for insolent rule breaking students, but he definitely didn’t mind it if it meant waking up to see you. 

“Better?” He asked, smiling down at you as he felt your leg sneak between his, your head placed right over his heart. 

“Yes,” you thanked him and felt him leaving a peek atop your head in return. You both settled into the bed, but neither of you made an effort to fall back asleep, opting to simply lie in one another’s arms, gentle strokes of affection exchanged until the sun came up. 

Time flew by and before you knew it, you were both slowly dressing to head to breakfast and the more you got ready, the more you seriously began to consider Severus’ offer of spending the rest of the day in his chambers, away from the rest of the staff and the few students who stayed behind for the holidays. But you couldn’t bring yourself to hide away like that, besides, your aunt was expecting your presence and you knew how it would look to her if you were absent.

Severus closed the door behind you and you both began making your way to the Great Hall. He felt his usual bitterness seep back in with each step he took towards his colleagues, the joy he felt from last night withering away and if it wasn’t for the fact that you were here, taking a seat beside him, he would have chalked up the entire night as a blissful dream. Watching others steadily join the single breakfast table had Severus indulging himself deeper into your conversation, doing his best to pretend as though he was still back in his private chambers alone with you. It wasn’t until Minerva sat down beside you that he felt pulled away from his fantasy as you began conversing with his the Head of his rival House. 

“Sleep well dear?” Your aunt asked as she took her seat beside you, a glimmer hidden in her eyes.

“It was a bit cold, but I slept well,” you smiled back at her kindly. Severus watched intently as you exchanged words with Minerva, feeling a little discontent at the sudden enthusiasm she showed for you. He’d seen Minerva smile when Gryffindor won the house cup or laugh when they’d joke together about the new Defense professor, but he’d never seen her glow like she did when she spoke with you. Was it your charisma? Your kindness?  

“You both seem quite comfortable with one another. Have you previously met?”

“Of course!” Minerva exclaimed. “Severus, this is my niece, I told you she was coming,” she explained and you watched Severus’ face completely freeze up, stuck in a state of complete and utter shock.

“Your-your what?”

“Well… she’s my great aunt technically,” you quietly intervened, biting your lip, feeling a little guilty for the stiffened air surrounding the three of you. You only prayed it wouldn’t get worse when your aunt found out you were dating Severus.

“Severus, you’re uncharacteristically quiet, is everything alright?” Minerva’s words went straight over his head as he looked back and forth between you and her. All these years working as a spy, he’d learned to anticipate the unexpected, but this was something he didn’t think Merlin himself could have ever predicted.

“I-I…” He stuttered for the first time either of you had known him but as soon as his eyes finally settled on you, your fear for his next words grew. “How could you not tell me Minerva’s your aunt?”

He spoke so fast as he leaned closer to you, like it would somehow prevent the rest of the world from overhearing. Though of course, you could never have been granted such luck and nothing could have prevented you from feeling like you were being scolded like a child in front of a room full of people.

“You never asked!”

“Merlin’s beard! Why on earth would I ask such a specific question when we’ve only been dating for a few months.”

“It’s been a little longer than that Severus,” you said a little hurt he didn’t seem to cherish your relationship as much as you. Honestly, you had half a mind to correct him and ask what these last six months meant to him until your aunt reminded you this was no place to start such a discussion.

“Dating?” She spat out, bringing the eyes of everyone around the table to you. “(Y/N) explain yourself! What is going on?”

Your mouth hung open, taken back by her stern tone. The way she looked at you made you feel like a child hiding your boyfriend after your family had explicitly said dating was off the table. Your heart pounded against your chest as you turned to face her, the anticipation for her reaction weighing you with every second that passed.

“Well auntie, I’ve been dating Severus since July,” you said as gently as possible. You’d known your aunt for as long as you could remember and you’d seen her snap at your cousins for showing the smallest bit of recklessness when they became of age but that couldn’t even compare to the look you saw on her face right now. Looking between your aunt and your boyfriend, you felt your cheeks heat up at the sight of their pale faces and widened eyes, matching those of the bystanders all witnessing the little exchange between all three of you.

“…Surprise,” you said in the smallest, most shriveled voice, hoping the universe would do you a favour and miraculously open a hole in the floor beneath you and swallow you whole.

“I can’t believe- The nerve you both have-” Minerva’s rage radiated off of her, Severus was convinced standing within a three feet radius of her would probably cause more damage than an unforgivable curse. 

“Minerva-” Severus spoke cautiously.

“This is-this is just-” Her obvious fury seemed to prevent her from finishing a sentence and it somehow made her seem all the more terrifying.

“Perhaps we should continue this conversation after breakfast,” you whispered to the both of them before gesturing to the rest of those sitting at the table. 

Their gazes seemed to stick to you like super glue for what felt like an eternity but eventually, by Merlin’s grace, everyone’s attention was torn from you and breakfast went back to normal (as normal as it could get). You sat there in long agonizing silence for the rest of the morning as everyone around you finished their food until you found yourself alone with your aunt sitting on one side of you and your boyfriend on the other. No one spoke a word while the air thickened, waiting for the ticking bomb of rage to explode.

“Auntie, before you say anything, let us explain,” you jumped in and broke the tension before she could speak. “We met in June at the Ministry and at first we’d strike up simple conversations during lunch, but eventually, we began to talk over dinner and well… we just grew closer to one another.”

The longer you spoke, the faster you felt the blood rush to your cheeks and by the time you’d gotten to your last few words, you’d completely forgotten what you’d just said. You went completely stiff as you watched your aunt’s eyes drill into yours, the sharp and alarming look on her face worrying you over what absurd thought was running through her head. You could only pray she wasn’t on the verge of pouncing on Severus in any way. The last thing you wanted was for a wall to form between them. They were already the Heads of the two most opposing Houses at Hogwarts, they surely didn’t need any more reason to clash with one another.  

“Severus, I swear, if you mistreat her-” Those were definitely not the words you’d expected to hear from her, but it was Severus’ response that had your heart skip a beat before almost stopping entirely. 

“I’d never do such a thing! I love her!” He’d blurted out without a second thought. Once again, silence fell and Severus felt the room shrink around him, your eyes widening, looking at him with nothing but shock all over your face and he would have gladly taken facing the Dark Lord over existing in this room any longer if the opportunity arose.

“You what?” you managed to crook out. 

“I-” Severus looked at you and felt the room vanish, leaving him with his heart exposed before you. “I love you.”

Your ears had to have been deceiving you, at least that’s what you’d convinced yourself before he repeated himself, his words clear as day. A smile etched its way to your lips, that sparkle in his eyes melting your heart. His confession couldn’t have been sweeter though you wished the moment was a little more romantic than being stuck in the Great Hall with your protective aunt who probably wasn’t the happiest to hear one of her coworkers profess his love for you.

But you didn’t care. The moment didn’t have to be perfect, it was the man before you that you cared about. He was perfect and you were so happy to hear he too felt that spark that was growing between you both these last few months.  

“I love you too,” you whispered back with words as sweet and full of passion as his and for a moment, just a short moment, you both felt as though you were the only ones left on earth, the world yours for the taking, yours to explore together.

“Well, this has been quite the morning,” Minerva intruded, obviously (and rightfully) feeling a bit intrusive.

“Auntie, I’m sorry. I should have mentioned I was dating Severus when we spoke about my visit,” you said, finally realizing the full extent of your lack of transparency. You felt selfish and curial for putting her through all this, especially now when she’d found herself caught in such a blissful moment between you both. You turned to Severus next, feeling guilty for the sheer amount of shock he’d endured today. “And I’m sorry I didn’t mention my relation to Minerva, Sev.”

Severus gave you the gentlest of smiles, looking as though you could never do wrong in his eyes. He in fact didn’t much care for your relation to Minerva, at least not in this moment, not when he’d begun to realize just how much he cared for you and how special you are to him. He’d learn to deal with the changing relationship between him and Minerva. He’d do anything to keep you happy, even if that meant showing the Head of Gryffindor a little less strife and a little more respect at work. 

“I hope you realize this changes nothing about your visit to Hogwarts.” You turned back to your aunt and saw her settle back into that strict and stern Professor you’d grown to love. “And I request you use the room Pomona so graciously prepared for you!”

“Yes, Auntie,” you nodded in agreement, making note to do your best and divide up your time between the two of them on your stay here, hoping perhaps she’d be willing to spend time with Severus as well, warming up to the idea of accepting him into the family.  

Minerva seemed more or less satisfied, but Severus knew her better than to judge her by the expression she wore on her face. He knew once you left, once he was left alone in this great big castle with her, she would unleash her wrath and pester him on every little thing about you. Privacy was going to be a real concern for him, especially since he’d wished to keep his relationship with you a secret to keep you out of harm’s way. With his position as a spy, he knew the more people that were aware of his feelings towards you, the more dangerous it would be to continue dating, but still, one could hope right? In this moment, all he could do was hang on to that smile you gave him and the warming comfort that came with your support. 

You watched your aunt compose herself before standing from her seat and bid you farewell, instructing you to meet her in her office once you were all settled into the room initially assigned to you for tea. You agreed of course and thanked her before giving her a hug, waiting for the doors to close behind her and finally letting your emotions flourish as you smiled from ear to ear. 

“You don’t really mean that, do you?” Severus had stood as soon as Minerva had left and wrapped his arms around you, his chest pressed tightly against your back. He rested his chin on your shoulder and took in your scent, hoping he wouldn’t have to sneak around the castle, hopping from your room to his like children with something to hide for the next two weeks. He’d gotten so used to waking up next to you over the summer, he couldn’t imagine the agony of being stripped from that privilege right when he’d been regifted it last night.

“Well,” you said as you leaned into his embrace, placing your hands over his. “She said I have to use the room, she didn’t say anything about prohibiting overnight visitors.”

Severus chuckled at your cunning loophole wondering how on earth you were related to a Gryffindor when you so clearly belonged in Slytherin with him.

“You are absolutely brilliant,” he said, silently thanking Merlin for this Christmas miracle he’d been given. 

“Come on,” you said as you spun around, grabbing hold of his hand. “I have a few hours to spare before meeting Minerva. Why don’t we continue ‘catching up’ until then?”

Severus felt enchanted, unable to do anything more than follow you down the halls and back to the dungeons where you both began a long, well needed, holiday together, leaving all your worries and troubles behind.

[am-imagines]

And the Favorite is...- USWNT Imagine.

I got this ask:  Hey I read your fic with R being Krashlyn's kid and it was pretty good. Can you do another one? Where R always shows up in someone's insta story like dancing with Sonnet, scaring someone with Kelly, going out for breakfast with Press or playing some kind of games with Tobin? Like how she interacts with her crazy and overprotective aunts. And I ran with it. I hope you like it, dear anon!

You can find the first part here.

I am totally biased, I hope you don’t mind.

The Olympics inauguration is only a couple of days away. It’s the time when nerves grow before disappearing at the ceremony, but your time is filled with so much activity that you don’t even have time to be nervous.

Your team is great and practice is always fun although you can’t wait for the first game. The excitement grows, the pressure builds, and you’re actually ready for your first Olympics.

In order to keep you distracted, your parents have found a thousand games for you to try. Your family isn’t exactly conventional, and those games are far from being board ones. You have to experience a new city in the company of the USWNT while getting information, playing pranks or doing certain things with them to win the game.

You don’t mind it one bit. You love all your crazy aunts. Hanging out with them is a fun way to discover the magic of a new country. They don’t keep you from getting lost. They just get lost with you. Thank God technology is a thing and the GPS has saved your life.

“Here’s another one!” Ash exclaims. “Who gives the best hugs?”

Currently, you’re sitting in bed between your parents while they livestream. Their fans are happy to see how you interact with them, and they don’t miss the chance to ask you stuff about them and the Krashlyn adventures in Tokyo.

“Ma,” you say pointing at Ali. “Her hugs are warm and soft. But mom’s are great too; rib-wrecking and yet can’t say no to them.”

A chuckle escapes your lips when both of them hug you at the same time. Ash kinda proves your point; making you grunt when she squeezes a little too tight. The smile never leaves your lips; much less when they decide to kiss your cheeks at the same time.

It’s embarrassing, but you do nothing to stop them.

Finally, they settle down and you shake your head in amusement.

They’re supposed to be the parents.

“Oh! I gotta go,” you announce mostly to the camera. “Pinoe must be waiting for me. Please, don’t embarrass yourselves or me more than you’ve done.”

“Can’t promise that, kiddo.“

Maybe it would be easier to leave if your parents didn’t cling to you like koalas while remind you to take care and call them if you need anything. You struggle for another minute before they finally relent. Then, they go back to their livestream while you put on your shoes.

“Here’s another one!” You hear Ash through the door, but don’t stay long enough to discover what is the next question.

Pinoe is waiting for you, and you find her with ease thanks to the pink hair.

Sonny and the others like to tease her about it, but you like her style. Not everyone can rock it like she does, but you’re gonna try to challenge the odds with a crazy hair color as well. Not pink, but probably just as outstanding. Blue, purple, orange, silver...you haven’t decided yet.

However, this day is all about make-overs, courtesy of Megan Rapinoe.

“Sorry I’m late,” you say when you make it to her side,

“I thought those two would keep you forever.”

She shows you her phone where you can see your parents throwing their teammates’ names around to answer God knows what question. You don’t have enough time to figure it out before Pinoe puts her phone in her pocket and offers you a pair of shades.

People assume she isn’t the most affectionate person; usually more compossed than the rest of the USWNT, but that’s not the case. Maybe she’s not as open with physical displays, but she expresses herself in other ways. Spending time around the city always means she spoils you like crazy. And no, that’s not the reason you love spending time with her.

Ash loves her for a reason, and you can see exactly why.

Being around Pinoe means not thinking about the Olympics for a bit, even when you can’t understand a single neon sign around you.  It’s all about fashion in ways other than clothes. Your hair ends up in a crazy color that looks amazing on you. It won’t be that visible under the helmet while you play, but you feel empowered by it.

Then, Pinoe gets you the perfect clears for your first game in a couple of days. You can’t wait to show them off, so both of you take a picture in front of the mirror in true Pinoe style.

A few hours later, when you’re back on your room, the pic comes up on your Instagram with a simple comment: #FavoriteAunt.

It makes you chuckle, but you like the post anyway.

***

“Y/n, Y/n! Come here. Hurry!”

You comply without thinking when Kelley motions for you to hide next to a trash can. She’s already recording, and that can only mean one thing.

“Who’s our victim?”

She’s about to prank someone and you’re always up for it. Mischief is clear on your eyes when you look at her behind the camera.

“Allie is about to come up.”

Of course. It had to be Allie of all people.

You’ve scared her over a hundred times, but it’s always fun to make her jump. Thinking about it, camp wouldn’t be the same without Kelley scaring the ever-loving socks off Allie Long, or any other poor soul she has as a target.

“You want to do it?” She asks although she knows the answer already.

“Hell yeah!”

“Language, kid!” She admonishes just for the show while beaming at you.

It takes barely ten seconds for Allie to walk down the corridor. She’s focused on her phone; giving you the perfect opportunity to strike.

You wait just for another second; letting her get closer before jumping and screaming as loud as you can. She screams back at you in total panic; her phone almost thrown at your face in a defensive reflex. It’s a good thing you have her a new phone case that actually protects her phone or it would be down for the count by now.

Kelley is laughing like crazy behind you, and so are you.

That doesn’t stop you from retrieving the launched phone, handing it over to Allie and pressing a kiss to her cheek.

“Love you,” you say smugly.

“You’re lucky I love you too or I would get you back for this,” she answers while pulling you in for a hug. “Now you, O’Hara, are a different story.”

“You don’t love me?” She asks Allie with that big mocking grin. “I’m the favorite aunt!”

“No, you’re not.” The blonde argues. “I’m the favorite.”

Kelley is still recording, and you’re sure she won’t be able to post all of that at once.

But you don’t know what started the whole favorite aunt debate and by now, you’re afraid to ask. So, while they’re still arguing over it, you make a silent escape.

However, when you see the whole thing posted all over social media later, you can’t help but like it and post a heart emoji directed at both of them. They don’t ask about it directly, so you don’t give an answer either.

The fans are going crazy when the entire soccer National Team jumps into the conversation. Everyone wants to know your answer, but you like to see them fight over that. It’s never too serious, so there’s no shame in enjoying the show.

You don’t make further comments, and all they can do is settle for the night.

It’s a good thing because you have a game to win the next day.

***

Your first victory is exhilarating, but your celebration is quite reserved. You’re on there to win just a game, and although it’s a great feeling to do so, you’re aiming for the gold.

Your nerves were gone as soon as you stepped up to the plate for your first at-bat. Your parents were right about it, and having the entire USWNT cheering for you brought the best out of the entire softball team. The greatest team is there for you; the next generation of golden athletes, and you’re ready to play the part.

After celebrating with ice cold Gatorade, you hang out on your parents’ room.

Playing Smash Bros on your switch with some of your teammates seems like the perfect way to unwind. After a few rounds, you opt to play Mario Kart instead, and you know exactly who would love to join the party.

Tobin calls you after accepting the invite. It’s not that she has a lot to say but because you love hearing her ramble and fight the game when things don’t go her way.

You send a blue shell after her and laugh when she groans in defeat. You don’t have to be in the same room to have a great time with Tobin. She’s amazing.

“You want to have dinner with Chris and me?”

“You getting me ice cream?”

“Fried ice cream if you hurry up.”

“On my way!”

You’d feel bad about ditching your parents, but they have plans with the rest of the team. They’d love it if you’d join them, but there’s no guarantee to make it back before curfew if you go with them. So, after letting them know you’re joining Press and Tobes for dinner, you’re on your merry way.

Dinner is spectacular and Christen smiles the entire time.

It’s not a surprise that the entire world is in love with her. She lets you try from her plate and shares your excitement over dessert while Tobin snaps a thousand pictures of the moment. It’s the perfect way to end the day; with an extra selfie where the three of you smile at the camera.

That’s the picture you post to thank them for an amazing night.

***

The Olympics advance and you try to follow as many events as you can while still being focused on your discipline.

It seems like forever before the USWNT faces their first match.

Your coach gives you permission to go to the match, and the world is ready to see if you’re wearing the jersey of your favorite aunt. You’re not sure why there’s so much expectation considering your parents are also part of the team. In your mind, wearing one of their jerseys is the way to go. And you make your way into the stands wearing the Krieger one.

You wear Ash’s number with your team, and well...you’re Harris too. So, you decided to switch for once. Watching Ali beam makes you happy, and you cheer them on with all your heart. The shouting never stops until your throat is sore and they come on top with their first victory. The atmosphere in the stadium is crazy, and you love every second of it.

It’s hard to tell what happened after that, but you make it to the Olympic Village on JJ’s arms. She’s stronger than anyone could imagine, and it’s shocking when she throws you over to A.D. as if you weighed nothing.

Speaking of strong women…

Every few feet you are in the arms of someone different until you make your way to Naeher. You can see the hint of a smirk on her lips and that makes you smile.

“Thanks for the save,” you say. “Pun totally intended. You were amazing out there.”

A nod is your answer before someone is calling for your attention.

“So,” Mal starts and you know the question before it leaves her lips. “Who’s the favorite aunt?”

“Not you, sorry.” You reply playfully while sticking your tongue out to her. “You’re too young, Rose and T. are the same. You’re more like my cousins.”

Everyone thinks of you as the kids even if you’re not an official part of the team. You’re okay with that, even when they’re overprotective most of the time.

“How did this whole thing start?”

“Livestream,” all of them reply at the same time.

The roll of your eyes is a given. Of course a fan question caused havoc among the USWNT. This has been fun, but they can keep going for ages, and it’s time to stop.

“If it started like that, then maybe it should end with another livestream.”

A deep silence settles over the entire team, and you realize that your inner thoughts were said out loud. It’s too late to backtrack because Kelley, Pinoe and Ash exchange a look before storming out.

“Mom, wait!” You call after Ash, but they’re already gone. “Oh no.”

Alyssa puts you down in case you want to follow them. There’s no real point. You won’t be able to convince them of not doing the livestream right at that moment. Instead, you allow Sonny to guide you through the corridors until you make it to your room.

To no one’s surprise, they already have half the things ready.

With a huff, you take your place in the middle of your bed while every single aunt takes a place wherever they can. Sam ends up on the floor next to Rose. Ali pats your shoulder and takes a seat in the other bed so you can deal with this madness.

Once everyone is seated, Kelley starts the broadcast with: “You know what we’re here for.”

“First of all,” you interrupt before she can say more. “I don’t know who you are, or where are you from, but for the person asking that, you have no idea of the utter chaos you provoked.”

With a glare to the camera, you return your attention to Kelley who only laughs at your words. She’s so damn crazy, and that’s one of the many reasons you love her.

“Come on, Y/n! You’re killing us.” Pinoe says from the corner. “Who’s the favorite aunt?”

“And the favorite aunt is...”

You pause for dramatic effect while you scan the room trying to find her. Then, the moment prolongs because you can’t find her between all the familiar faces.

“Wait, where is she?”

Everyone turns; counting heads and thinking about who is missing. Confusion grows until the door opens and the missing piece enters with a sheepish smile.

“Sorry, I’m late.”

“I knew it!” Kelley exclaims with a triumphant air fistbump.

“Of course you did. I told you before,” Alex says in the most nonchalant tone she can muster. “Y/n said it at her birthday party, remember? You got there late because your plane was delayed, but everyone else was there.”

“I thought it was just because she got you cake!” Sonny exclaims.

“The cake was just a bonus.”

“Why are you late anyway?” JJ asks Alex while the blonde holds you and refuses to let anyone else close to you.

“Well, I went for a blue one.”

“Swap?” You asks excitedly and Alex nods.

You can’t move when JJ holds you so tightly, but that’s okay. Alex takes the empty space between your legs while she puts her jersey over you. Blue is the kit you like the most, and Alex made sure to sign it for you.

In all honesty, you love them all.

They’re your family, weird as they are.

[james-flint]

anon, i’m just gonna go ahead and assume you mean good omens

honestly, i’m not the best person to ask this because even though i read A Lot of fic i always forget to bookmark them. but i’ll try

first of all, if you somehow haven’t read a single fic yet and decide to choose just one from this post please read this one

how big the hourglass, how deep the sand by Handful_of_Silence

After the Apocalypse, and with characteristic slowness, both Crowley and Aziraphale think there might be something they need to sit down and talk about. And then Aziraphale disappears.

i know, it’s a classic. I always enjoy a good angsty fic and this one literally gave me chest pain, like every sentence punched me in the guts. and oh my god…… the Writing….. it’s just so beautifully written. AND it has a happy ending because we don’t read any others in this house. so good time all around

it also has a sequel and it’s equally amazing

other than these, i’m just slowly making my way through sorted by kudos page on ao3 so you might have seen all of these in other people’s recs but i’ll put them here anyway

In the (Second) Beginning by cherryfeather

As their lunch stretches on Aziraphale slowly comes to realize that Crowley is—enjoying him. Enjoying Aziraphale’s conversation, and company, far more openly than he has in most of Aziraphale’s memory. And Aziraphale knows that he himself is just chattering on, letting conversational tangents carry him along, and—it’s definitely relief, for him, knowing for the first time in a long time that they aren’t being watched, that no one is keeping score for now.

such surpassing brightness by Handful_of_Silence

The revelation that Aziraphale might have been in love with him for thousands of years is surprising. The fact that literal books have been written on the subject comes as even more of a shock.

basically all of this author’s works are my favourites

you knew my name on sight by brinnanza

“This wasn’t me, you know,” Crowley says, the words out of his mouth before he’s made the conscious choice to utter them. “Not just the library, but the whole civil war. You know me; I’ve mostly been getting drunk at Bacchanals.” “I know,” says Aziraphale.

and, so on by PaintedVanilla

Crowley doesn’t remember heaven, but Aziraphale remembers him.

uuuuhhhh this one!!! it has a mature rating but if you can maybe skip just one scene it’ll be so worth it i promise. a masterpiece

listen (he’s already told you five times) by darcylindbergh

Not everything Crowley says is said out loud. Aziraphale doesn’t always hear him at first, but he’s learning to stop being surprised.

how to get smote: 101 by ineffablemercury 

He’d made the mistake of kidnapping an angel. And not just any angel, no, but one who apparently had a demon on its side. Dammit.

this has an outside POV and protective crowley. i literally don’t need anythig else

On The Matter Of Touch by Somedrunkpirate

“On the matter of touch,” Crowley begins, waving his teaspoon in what he hopes passes for idle curiosity. “Thoughts?” For two ineffable husbands, they don’t really touch each other much. Here is a story on why that might be.

somebody recommended this fic on a post with my favourite art and want to thank them

a city wall and a trampoline by kafkian

In their cottage in the South Downs, when Crowley eventually succeeds in getting Aziraphale to use a laptop, it takes Aziraphale literal hours to get past the default Windows screensavers of picturesque locations because ‘oh, look, isn’t it lovely, Crowley!’

all i need, darling, is a life in your shape by deadgreeks

After everything, Aziraphale and Crowley, by unspoken agreement, begin sharing their lives.

Four times Crowley called Aziraphale “sweetheart” without noticing (and One time he did) by TheLadyZephyr

“Sweetheart” (1290) - A person who is very dear to another; one who is loved. From sweet (adj.) + heart (n.)

Over the years, Crowley has called Aziraphale “sweetheart” on at least four different occasions. He just hasn’t actually noticed himself saying it.

Any Other Name by mostlyanything19 (halfanapple)

What if Aziraphale’s name was originally “Aziraphael”, in keeping with the conventional spelling and pronunciation of other angel names, but because of its divine nature, Crowley is physically unable to say it out loud.

here i am, leaving you clues by Lvslie

It’s all the same burning bookshop, and I’m always inside shouting your name.

Stars Above You by Demorra (thebibliosphere)

“We can run away together,” he’d said, “Alpha Centauri, lots of space up there, no one would even notice us…”

Show/Tell by walkalittleline

It took Aziraphale approximately five thousand nine hundred and forty-five years—give or take a few months—to fall in love. It didn’t take Crowley nearly as long.

such selfish prayers by Lvslie

Crowley, while still apparently comatose, had somehow managed to wrap himself so thoroughly around Aziraphale on their way up, that any attempt at dropping him onto the mattress without being pulled down as well proved futile. And hence, quite defeated, Aziraphale found himself lying in a warm tangle of Crowley and blankets. He felt a little stunned.

you smiled (and it broke my heart) by TheIndianWinter

Aziraphale attempted a smile for him, but it was too sad to really be a smile.(Over the course of millennia, Crowley had grown quite familiar with the angel’s smiles. From the reluctant ones that tweaked at his lips after an off-colour remark from the demon, to the full-blown beatific expression of pure angelic joy that did strange things somewhere in the vicinity of Crowley’s stomach. He knew Aziraphale’s smiles. This was not one of them.)

“I’m thinking of closing the bookshop,” he said.

good for the soul by singingtomysoul

Aziraphale doesn’t feel guilty, for once, but has some things to confess. Crowley doesn’t think he has guilt, and doesn’t plan to confess anything. On both counts, he’s wrong.

the still point of the turning world by punkfaery

Crowley has an existential crisis. Aziraphale attempts to pick up the pieces.

Everybody Knows but You by writer_zo

Everyone seems to believe that Crowley and Aziraphale are in love. Everyone, however, has to be wrong, because (as Crowley knows) an angel could never love a demon and (as Aziraphale knows) a demon could never love an angel.

Snakes and Stones (Never Broke My Bones) by DeerstalkerDeathFrisbee

“How many people don’t believe I exist?” Crowley asks in the doorway. “I’m sure no – ” Aziraphale begins, only to be cut off by Gabriel and a reluctant Newton. “Everyone.”  

No one wants to say it, but the residents of Dorm A, floor 3, are collectively convinced Aziraphale Fell’s boyfriend does not exist. This is their story.

honestly never would have thought that I would read an au for this pairing and a college one at that but here we are

Inevitable, unavoidable by Lilian

Aziraphale gets amnesia and thinks Crowley is his husband when he sees him.

it’s exactly like that old video but with feelings

there are many more good fics that i forgot to add or haven’t read myself yet but these are the ones that stuck with me

[houkuaichuii]

Could I have something fluffy with Lucien from MLQC? When you have time, thanks!

This took far longer than it really should have because I momentarily lost the writer’s bug for a while, so I!!! Couldn’t!! Words!!!! :( I’m so sorry, my dear anon. But alas, it is here and it is ready to be read! I hope you enjoy c:

Pairing: Lucien/MC(Reader)Word Count: ~830Warnings?: Just attempted fluff and unbeta’d work--

————

When Lucien first met you, he had a plan: he was to put on his charm, play the role of a gentleman, have you open up to him until he had you wrapped around his finger. He had a plan from the very beginning, though despite being a man of research, especially one of science, he failed to consider a very specific variable that changed everything in more ways than one.

He, by complete accident, fell for you. Blindly.

And perhaps he regretted it in the beginning, tried his utmost best to stop it from happening. But when the both of you simply spend the afternoon lounging across his couch, having the warm breeze of spring enter through the open windows, he embraces the situation in its entirety.

You lay on top of him, your head on his chest, undoubtedly listening to the beating of his heart as he has a hand stroking your back in a rhythmic motion. He holds up a book with the other, and in consideration of your silence, he has simply assumed that you have fallen asleep as you often do. Of course he is far from minding the situation, enjoying the closeness that you two share, more so the feeling of your weight and warmth on him. It is a time of utter repose, peace, and even though it could possibly even be a crime for him to say, it all feels far too right.

It is as if this is how he is supposed to spend the rest of his days, his life.

Truth be told, he would if he could.

With a sigh as the thought gnaws on the deepest corners of his mind, he inserts a bookmark in between the pages and places the book down on the floor. He breathes in deeply, wrapping both arms around you in an embrace and finding a sense of contentment in how exactly you fit against him. He feels you move, however, your foot riding up his calf. He hears you hum for a short second, and he tilts his head to the side slightly, at least enough to see the way you scrunch your nose and furrow your brows. Is there something bothering you in your dream?

“‘M hungry…” You mumbled, although clear enough for him to pick up on.

Clear enough for the worries to wane.

“And what would the princess like to eat?” He asks quietly, unsure as to whether you were sleep-talking or have woken up.

It is then when you look up at him with bleary eyes and a small pout, chin on his sternum, “Should we go out on a date for a snack?”

“You mean a date to the convenience store around the corner?” 

“That’s exactly what I mean.” With a twinkle in your gaze, your mouth spreads into a child-like grin; pure and innocent, everything that he is far from.

Everything that drew him to you from the beginning. 

Wordlessly, he stares at you, caressing your cheek with the back of his fingers as he watches you lean into his touch. A thousand thoughts run through his head, although none of them seem to be stopping any time soon for him to truly comprehend what it is that he wants to convey.

You are so beautiful.

I am so sorry for all of the hurt that I have caused you in the past.

I don’t deserve you.

You are everything.

It is silence that envelops the both of you, but with your eyes locked with his, it is easy for him to assume that you are searching for something within. There is that curiosity that underlies beneath those bright brown hues of yours, and although you don’t voice out your question, he knows your need to have answers. You smile at him, however, ever so patient as you curl your fingers around his.

“I love you.” Is what he says, hoping that it is enough.

“I know,” You turn your head to drop a kiss into his palm, “It’s written all over your face.”

“Is that so?” There is no tone of embarrassment in his words; no tentativeness or shyness. In fact, he is far from being surprised of the possibility that he could be showing such an expression. You are, after all, the cause of his unraveling, and he would not have it any other way. If he has a tendency to look at you as if he is drowning in all of the emotions that he holds to you, then so be it; you shouldn’t have any doubts, either. For what his past is worth, it is you who have shown him what it is to live and to love. Only you could have ever found him so open, so human.

“Mhm,” Is your short and simply reply, your smile so soft yet so bright with dimples deepening into the corners of your mouth, “But that date to the convenience store: yes or no?”

[lisinfleur]

Bonita

Author’s Notes | Hey, dear anon! Thank you for the challenge! This is the first time I risked to write for a Hispanic Reader and I really hope it is well written! I would really like to thank my sweet friend @honestsycrets for the help with the details from her beautiful lands! May the gods bless me one day with the sweet chance to know and hug you in person, Bonita... Universe | Vikings Pairing | Hvitserk x Reader Info | Hispanic! Reader, Modern AU, requested by anon for 5CW5 Words | 1699 ⁑ Warnings: None

"What a damn lucky bastard you are!"

Hvitserk knew exactly what Ommar and Knut were talking about with those elbows hitting his ribs.

"She's fucking great, bro. Legit curves from Puerto Rico's fire, man!"

Hvitserk took a sip from his drink; the taste remembering him from the first time he saw her and how he was just as idiot as those two assholes beside him now.

He could remember he sighed at the sight of her curves, thinking she was the sexiest woman he ever saw in his life. Her skin was caressed by the sun and her traces seemed to be hand painted by an artist with his brush sliding in a single line to draw the suavity of those curves and circles and forms of her body. The beautiful lips smiled at his face, colored like the berries of autumn, adorning the face framed by the beautiful dark curls of her hair, cascading through her shoulders, down to her waist. She was the day and the night in a perfect marriage as if the sun had kissed her skin from the morning until the moment the moon decided to embrace her with the cloak of the dark sky, locking stars into the two dark lagoons she had in her eyes. A piece of art he couldn't avoid admiring, stunned by such unique beauty he never saw before in the lands he came from.

He giggled, remembering how innocent and stupid he was. She was so much more... But at that moment, he lost completely the attention to the menu card in his hand, the reason why she had approached him in the first place: He had the biggest number of wrinkles in his forehead she ever saw someone show while reading that thing, so, she thought she could help the foreigner with the obvious confusion about her language.

"May I?" she pointed the card and Hvitserk kinda woke up from his trance, remembering he wanted a drink, looking at the menu once again.

"Ah... Yes... Please... I..." he giggled, remembering how the words simply escaped him completely, despite the fact that there were a bunch of stupid ways to hit on her dancing in his mind.

At least, he had the good sense to avoid all of them. But in the end, he ended up looking even more like a silly tourist, babbling in front of her.

However, she was used to dealing with silly people like him and her smile opened once again, like the sunrise in the sky.

"Here, this one is made of..." she started explaining every single item of the menu for him, translating the words with that beautiful accent in her voice, so melodic.

Hvitserk remembered how he wanted that card to have a thousand items so, he could hear her voice forever.

But the list wasn't that long, and when she finished, he smiled back at her gentleness.

"What would you recommend for me?" he asked, trying to have more of her attention.

And she kindly pointed the number three of his card, smiling.

"Try the Don Q Limon with Cranberry Juice," she said, causing his lips to curve in a smile. "It's a local brand of rum. You may like the experience," she suggested, gentle.

Hvitserk took a new sip from his cup, remembering that moment. The drink became his favorite, just because it tasted like a good memory. One of the best of his life, he had to admit.

At that night, he paid not one, but two cups of that drink, offering a drink to the beautiful girl who was so kind to the foreign stranger. She accepted his drink and his company and the two of them had a long conversation, even laughing together, sharing not one, but various drinks before the night was too high and she said she had to go. And only then, at the time of her departure, the two of them noticed they had forgotten the simplest part of that interaction:

"Sorry..." Hvitserk said when messing with his phone to ask for her number. "But... What is your name?"

The two of them laughed together of that for weeks... And this was the reason why she still called him "Frowny" sometimes, such as he gained the habit to call her with one of the firsts words he discovered from her language... Bonita.

That night, Hvitserk remembers they exchanged messages until the dawn and through the morning on. Laughing emojis had replaced the laughs of the night and he said several times he wanted to see her again. They meet each other dozens of times and she showed him lots of places in her town, always playing about how he looked like a tourist even when he was trying the most to mix with the locals and not to seem so foreign.

He discovered the flavor of coconut water, some steps of her dance and notes of her music; she showed him how to speak some of her words and jokes from her people; stories, traditions, parties, kisses... With Y/N, Hvitserk discovered the magic of that place was too much more than just the beautiful women and beaches.

He discovered she worked on a family shop, selling handmade souvenirs and some dishes from the local cuisine - his absolute favorite kind of store: beautiful things and delicious food. Hvitserk spent hours there with her, learning from the flavors to the histories behind the Vejigante Masks her mother and her produced to sell at the store. He even brought one - red, white and black! - to his mother. He could remember how fascinated she was by the handmade piece that was now exposed in a wall of her corridor, proudly hanging at the wall.

To go back home after the first time was painful. And for a time, Hvitserk remembers he thought his Bonita would forget him. Silly boy... The one who was, at the first moment, planning to have a delicious and lustful night with a woman he would completely leave to his memory in the following morning; was now completely fallen for her sweet words, spoken to his ears at the airport, when they exchanged one last kiss before his departure.

"Vuelve pronto, mi Frowny," she said, nuzzling her nose to his neck, near his ear shell. "I'll miss you."

He came back.

Not one time, but two, three... Whenever he had the chance, he came back to be received by the true fire from Puerto Rico he discovered had nothing to do with the sex appeal of those beautiful women and men from that place.

The true fire was into her heart, enlightening her dark eyes whenever they landed on his image coming from the airport into her arms once again.

Hvitserk could remember lots of things from her. The first time he brought his mother to meet her - and how sweet her family was, receiving them as if they were a part of the house. The way she used to help him with the terrible heat of those lands - and how good it was to share the shower with her, shivering satisfaction under the cold water, against her skin; or simply lay down on her bed, the bare feet touching each other, pretending to fight for the air of the floor fan. He could remember the nights at her balcony, her body sitting in the middle of his legs, her back against his chest and her sweet lips kissing his neck while his eyes were looking at the beautiful sky over them both, full of stars.

However, what he couldn't remember was when his heart changed that way. When she became the blood of his veins or his skin became so addicted to her presence that his homelands weren't attractive anymore. His own apartment was cold, the places were sad, the sky was grey.

Hvitserk wasn't spending his vacations at Puerto Rico with her. He felt like his soul was living with her, in those heated lands, while his body was spending work time in the cold places where he came from.

What was a chance for a one-night stand girl became the reason why he became passionate for planes and never again he spent a single vacation in his home unless he could bring her to stay with him and warm his nights.

"Try not to get burnt on those flames, buddy!" Ommar's voice kinda woke Hvitserk's mind from the memories.

This time, the friends from his land wanted to come with him since he was the one who knew about the customs and language from the place they wanted to know. Hvitserk rolled his eyes. If she was flames, then he was a moth already taken, burnt to ashes long ago. And he liked this way.

He liked the way her spirit was free like the fire he was now so habituated to understand. The fire his foolish friends were too blind to really contemplate.

She was this fire. Her spirit, her curves, her eyes, her smiles, her words...

Her love.

Hvitserk left the empty cup over the table and smiled at his friends.

"I would be happy to burn, my friend," he said, pulling the small velvet box from his pocket, causing Ommar's eyes to become large and Knut to gasp with his drink before Hvitserk could smile.

It was funny to see how foolish he was one day. Good to notice he had grown into someone so better than before.

And it was all because of her.

"But this fire is not for everyone, Ommar. It has to accept you. To want you. And I'll be blessed if those flames decide I'm dignified enough to become one with them".

Holding his velvet box in his hand, he walked towards the dance floor. His precious Y/N so beautifully lost in the music...

"Hey... Mi Bonita!" he called, smiling.

From the iced lands of the Vikings, he came to know her flames. And maybe, if he was really as lucky as Ommar and Knut and many others before then said, then he would be able to play with her a song of ice and fire...

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[padfootagain]

Christmas For A Lifetime

Here we go for another request for my winter event! Thank you for your request, anon, I hope you enjoy this!

The following prompts have been asked for our dear Ben Barnes:

22. "Are you trying to kiss me?"

27. "We should bake more cookies."

43. "Let's spend Christmas together, and New Year's Eve… actually… actually let's spend every single evening together for the rest of our lives."

53. "Can I have a hug? And a cookie? I'd really need a cookie right now."

Hope you all like this little fic! There is nothing but pure fluff in here. So much cute shit, guys, even I am blushing!

Pairing: Ben Barnes x reader

Word count : 1840

Carols were shaking the air around your home in a soft melody. Something sweet and warm that never failed to make you feel peaceful. Next to you, your Christmas tree stood proudly, now fully decorated with garlands and baubles and blinking lights. It was the first time that Ben and you decorated a tree together, and it just felt so good to do so…

Ben and you had met three years before, but at the time he was about to leave for six months to shoot a movie. You had exchanged your phone numbers anyway, but without much hope that two strangers who barely felt attracted to each other would be able to make any kind of feeling grow while thousands of miles separated the them.

You couldn't have been more wrong.

Long conversations through entire nights had become a repetitive pattern that coloured your whole life. You loved to listen to all the stories from the set he told you, you adored the way he listened to you complain about your day or laugh at something good that had happened to you, his humour never failed to make you smile. He was kind and sweet and smart, and all of a sudden, all you could see was how happy you were whenever the two of you talked, and not the many miles that kept you apart.

You had fallen for him way before he was back to your hometown. You had fallen for his sweet nature way before you two shared your first kiss under a lamppost while it rained.

He had fallen for you way before he could hold your hand across that restaurant table. He was already in love with you when that shy smile on your lips had made his heart swell with joy and fondness.

Some of your friends described your relationship with Ben as a 'friends to lovers' kind of relation. But you were not certain that it was true. Yes, you had learnt to know him through a cell phone, but it didn't mean that the feelings you had developed for him during that time had ever been friendly. And he had confessed to you a while back that he had never seen a friend in you either. He had leapt from stranger to love without taking a step through friendship, and you had done just the same.

And now, there you were, decorating your Christmas tree in this flat you both lived in.

You heard Ben humming along to the Christmas song, and you couldn't help but feel tenderness invade your whole body at the sound. His voice was always so warm and soothing…

You saw him take a step back away from the tree, a focused expression upon his face.

"Hmm… I think this tree looks fabulous! Not to over-compliment us but… we did a very good job!" he grinned.

You laughed at him, before joining him further away from the tree. And you had to admit that the colourful tree looked very good.

"It does look quite good," you admitted.

"It's a masterpiece, Y/N!"

"If you say so," you laughed at him again.

"But now, I'm afraid, we'll have to clean up all this mess," he sighed at the sight of all the boxes and other stuff randomly thrown across the room.

You moaned at his remark, wincing.

"No… let's take a break!"

"It isn't going to be more pleasant after a break."

"It can't be less pleasant," you fired back. "I need to find back my strengths anyway after all that energy spent on decorating that tree."

Ben merely laughed at you.

"And what would you need to get your strengths back then?" he inquired.

"Hmm…" you thought for a moment before opening your arms wide. "Can I have a hug? And a cookie? I'd really need a cookie right now."

Ben laughed at you again, before stepping into your embrace and holding you close to him as well.

"I think we still have a couple of cookies in the kitchen," he mumbled, burying his face in the crook of your neck while you ran your fingers through his dark hair.

You took a sharp intake of breath as he dropped sweet kisses up from your neck to your ear, his stubble leaving a tickling feeling all across your skin.

"Sounds good," you breathed, and he chuckled at the low sound of your voice.

"Good to hear that I still make you feel this way," he smirked.

He leaned towards you to drop a kiss on your lips, but you playfully pulled away.

"Are you trying to kiss me?" you teased him, making his eyes turn darker than before.

"I was… but clearly you've decided to torture me."

"Aww… poor Ben…"

You pushed him away, laughing, and walked to the kitchen to eat these cookies you yearned for.

But you found out that there were only two cookies left, one for you, and you gave the second to Ben.

"I want more," you declared, your words distorted as you were still chewing on your food. "We should bake more cookies."

Ben exploded with laughter.

"So, you are too lazy to clean up the mess in our living room for now, but you are up to make a mess in the kitchen as well?"

You shrugged.

"It's easier to make the mess than it is to clean it up," you fought back.

"You do know that we will have to clean everything up after we're done baking, right? So it means more efforts in the end."

"But I want cookies."

And the look you gave him told him that your decision was final. You wanted cookies, and you would have cookies.

He merely laughed, looking at you with amused eyes shining with tenderness, before he would help you to bake. And eventually, after traces of flours decorated both yours and Ben's cheeks and several chocolate chips had been eaten instead of being put in the cookies, you placed your food in the oven.

You cleaned up the living room while the cookies were being cooked, and eventually, you both settled with your freshly baked cookies and some warm tea on the sofa, your Christmas tree shining nearby. The smell of chocolate and sugar filled the room. The shushed melody of Carols was still playing. You cuddled in Ben's arms, your eyes drifting towards the decoration you had scattered across the room to enlighten the furniture. And you smiled at the sight, warmth spreading through your body because of the happiness that oozed from them.

You felt Ben shift under you though, and you recognized the nervous gesture immediately. A frown crossed your brow, and you looked up at him as he lied on the sofa with you.

"Ben? Is everything okay, love?"

He nodded, giving you a smile.

"Of course, why?"

"I don't know… you seem a bit… off…" you answered cautiously, taking care in your choice of words.

"I'm fine. I just… I was just thinking…"

He heaved a frustrated sigh. He wasn't sure how to find the right words, and now he needed them so desperately.

He looked for them, the fickle things, for a moment. But as he could only admit that they seemed to slip through his fingers instead of lingering on his tongue, he decided to speak his mind bluntly. If he couldn't say all that he had to say with delicacy, at least he would do so with honesty.

"What about we celebrate Christmas together?" he asked quietly.

You frowned a little at his question.

"I thought that you were going to your parents' with your brother."

"I'd rather be with you."

You stared in his dark eyes, but could only see truth in these two orbs you adored.

"I just…" he went on, stuttering in this adorable way he always did when he was nervous, and you couldn't refrain a smile at the sight of his cheeks reddening slightly as he blushed. "I love you, you know I do. And I… I want to spend Christmas with the person I love the most on this Earth."

You grinned at his words. You knew that Ben loved you, and you often told him about the way you felt for him as well. But this was another kind of declaration, and you knew it.

"Actually… I've been thinking about us, for a while now and I think… I think what we have is… it's bigger than us. I mean… It's not the kind of thing that we could live without. At least, I couldn’t. And I just want…"

He raised his hand to cup your cheek, his thumb brushing your cheekbone in a soft caress and his eyes intensely staring at you. His gaze was too magnetic for you to have the slightest hope to look away, your very soul seemed trapped into the two brown orbs that were fixed on you.

"I want to spend all my time with you," he went on in a whisper shaken by emotions, tears wetting his eyes." So let's… Let's spend Christmas together, and New Year's Eve… actually… actually let's spend every single evening together for the rest of our lives. What do you say? A lifetime coming home to see me? A lifetime spent cuddling together under the covers after a rough day? A lifetime spent fighting over which Hamilton song is the best. A lifetime spent decorating Christmas trees and getting too lazy to clean up the mess. A lifetime… a lifetime together… Wouldn't you like that?"

He stopped, waiting for a response. But your brain couldn’t fully understand what was going on just yet...

"Are you… what are you asking exactly, Ben?" you asked back in such a fragile whisper that your words barely passed your lips, and Ella Fitzgerald's warm voice singing a merry Christmas almost swallowed them whole.

He reached for something in the back pocket of his black jeans. A tiny velvety box. And you knew what was inside before he opened it to reveal the delicate circle of gold hidden inside.

"Would you marry me?" he whispered in your ear while your eyes couldn’t be torn away from the ring Ben was offering you.

A million emotions coursed through your heart and blood, and a thousand thoughts passed through your mind, but there was only one truth in all of this, and you didn't hesitate when you spoke it out loud.

"Yes, Ben. Yes…"

You both started to cry out of joy, your lips forming grins bright enough to lighten a whole galaxy, and when he slipped the ring around your finger, you realized that he was right.

You knew then, as he pulled you down to him to press his lips against yours, that it would always feel this way… warm, safe, peaceful, happy… you knew that he would make sure that your life would always be that way, for as long as you were with him.

You guessed that it would feel a bit as if Christmas lasted for a lifetime…

******************************

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[sserpente]

A/N: Request from anon. It snowed where I live today! The chances for White Christmas are increasing, yey! Now, this was a request but I’m thinking about permanently adding Thomas Sharpe to the characters I write for. Let me know what you think!

Words: 1727 Warnings: none

“Honestly, Thomas, we really should head back. The snowstorm is getting heavier.” You had been waiting for hours. This shortly before Christmas, the post office was extraordinary busy. Huge piles of parcels and packages surrounded you both as you sat there, waiting to pick up some material for Thomas’ machine, important pieces he couldn’t wait for to receive after the holidays, he had said.

You had left for London two days ago, travelling by horse carriage. It had been marvellous—magical and romantic, watching the snow sugar-coating the vast landscape, the many flakes painting the grey sky all the while wrapped in a warm and soft blanket, sitting so close to Thomas you could feel his body heat radiating off him and warming you like the brightest sun.

He had looked incredibly handsome that day—hell, he always looked unbelievably breath-taking. His black hair and the glasses he wore to protect his eyes from the rather weak sunbeams at this time of the year, along with his dark tailcoat and the black gloves… you could spend hours staring at him intently, mustering his thin lips you wanted to taste and hugging the surely somewhat muscly form he hid beneath those neatly tailored garments.

Technically, you were not allowed to have thoughts like that. They were hazardous—endangering your relationship to him. Thomas was, quite frankly, your boss. You supported him with capital and in return, for a little over a year now, he allowed you to live with him in Allerdale Hall. Ever since his sister had died, he felt lonely, he had told you one night after a few glasses of wine.

You could tell he shared a long and depressing history with her—a history you shouldn’t pry into and yet, the compassion you had felt for him went beyond mere friendliness. You had fallen in love with this man that night, learning he had a good heart and a soft nature.

“I’m so sorry, (Y/N).” His soft voice caressed your ears like earmuffs. It was okay, really. You had nowhere else to be. Your own family lived in Scotland and they had abandoned you after you had refused to marry this disgusting old farmer for money. You were better off here. With Thomas. “I know you want to go home.”

Home. Because Crimson Peak was your home now too. The words he spoke sounded like molten candy, like sweet honey running down your throat as you took them in.

“It’s alright, Thomas, really. I’m just worried about the blizzard, it’s getting worse.”

“Mr Sharpe! I am so sorry to have kept you waiting for so long but I’m afraid I have bad news.”

Sighing, you both stood, staring down the owner of the office. “Our courier got stuck in the snowstorm, there has been an incident. He is currently waiting for transportation in Edinburgh. I doubt he will arrive in time before Christmas in two days, and there will be no service on the day of Christmas Eve.”

Just like that, the whole journey, the money you had spent on the driver and the time you had wasted out in the cold, was all in vain.

Thomas nodded ruefully. “That is quite unfortunate. Is he alright?”

It was one of the many reasons why you loved him so much. Even though he would be relinquishing those machinery parts, he still cared—for a stranger he had never met.

“He will be. But you are not planning to leave now, are you?” The owner continued, his eyes widening as he watched Thomas reach for his hat to put it back on. It made him so much taller than he already was, towering up high next to your own form.

“We should. A Christmas tree awaits us.” You tossed in, smiling sweetly at him. It was a quite useful ability when it came to meetings, banks and money. You were of great help to him, right now, however, it earned you pity.

“Half of the city is snowed in. I doubt you will be able to leave, Mrs Sharpe.”

Your heart skipped a beat, your lips parting to correct him but your opposite was faster yet again and Thomas… Thomas seemed to hide an almost… dreamy smile.

“Perhaps you should consider spending the holidays here in London. There is a hotel right around the corner in Hugh Street. I know the owner, a lovely widow. I am sure she has a room for you two.”

Pressing your lips together, you looked up at the man of your desire, your eyes pronouncing the question you did not speak. Should we stay?

“If that is okay for you,” Thomas stated, smiling ever so slightly the butterflies in your belly went crazy with love.

You nodded. “We have not much of a choice. Staying in a warm hotel room is better than travelling in the cold, after all.”

In the end, it really did not matter, as long as you could spend Christmas with him.

“Alright… I will pay for your hotel room. I asked you to join me, after all. Well, still, thank you for your efforts.” He said to the owner then, nodding courtly.

“Good night, Mr Sharpe. Have a merry Christmas.”

“You too, sir,”

The hotel was in fact not far from the post office. Thomas and you were quick to find it, striding through the snow with your faces down to shut out the cold. Every cell of your being longed for you to take his gloved hand in yours but you resisted the urge, instead sucking in a deep breath when the warmth of the heated hotel wrapped around your bodies. ‘Lucinda’s’ the wooden sign read.

“Can I help you?” It was an elderly woman who spoke, waving from behind an old wooden counter. Piles of paper decorated it and a plate full of homemade cookies invited to steal a treat.

“Yes, Lucinda? I was wondering if you had two rooms for us? I’m afraid we’ll be stranded in London until it stops snowing.”

“Oh dear… I am completely overbooked for the holidays, sir. I have only one room left.”

“Will that do?” Thomas asked, giving you gentle glance.

Sleeping in one bed right next to him… it would be your own personal Christmas miracle.

“Yeah,” you choked out, clearing your throat. “I don’t mind.”

The widow was quick to hand you the keys and lead you upstairs to a small room. It was comfortable—cosy. A huge bed took up most of the space, the thick curtains and carpets drowning the room in warmth. It even had a desk and a small drawer for luggage, next to an old armchair that invited you to peacefully read on it.

“I can sleep on the chair, if you like.” Thomas suggested, walking towards the window to admire the view. Snowflakes blinded him, yet the busy streets of London were still clearly visible.

“Thomas, we live in the same house. I have known you for a little over a year now and I trust you. We can both sleep in the bed, I-I mean, unless of course you don’t wish to sleep next to me, if you are not comfortable—“

The shocked expression on his face startled you. “(Y/N), of course not. I would love to sleep next to you.” Only the fraction of a second after did he realise what he had said. He would love to sleep next to you? Smiling softly, you imagined how he would cuddle up against you, wrapping his strong arms around your body to keep you warm and safe. Perhaps… just maybe… did he feel the same for you?

“Did you hear it?” He went on then, quickly changing the topic. “The owner of the post office thought we were married.”

“I heard,” you giggled. If only it were real though, you added silently.

“I am so sorry we’ll have to spend Christmas Eve here. Perhaps I can ask Lucinda for a small Christmas tree?”

“Thomas… as long as I am with you, there is no need for a tree, no need for a delicious feast or presents…” You trailed off.

“I had a Christmas present for you.” He interrupted you gently, his blue eyes locking with yours. His soft smile—almost cheeky—melted you from the inside out.

Again, your heart skipped a beat, feeling like pink cotton candy wrapped around it.

“Thomas… that is so sweet of you but you knew you didn’t have to get me anything.”

“But I did. I was not sure if…” If what? If what?!

“(Y/N)…” Thomas started, approaching you with two intimidating steps that sent pleasant shivers up and down your spine. He was standing so close now you could feel his hot breath brushing against your skin, his body almost touching yours.

“It was a ring.”

A… a… a ring?! “W-what?”

“I wanted to ask for your hand in marriage, (Y/N). One year ago, when you offered capital to join me, I… it didn’t take me long to fall for you and with every day that passed, my love for you grew. The owner of the post office… my heart jumped when he called you ‘Mrs Sharpe’. This might not be the time, I wanted this to be perfect… but… we don’t seem to be going anywhere soon and… I love you. Will you… will you marry me?”

He loved you? He loved you! Your lips parted, hot tears of joy burning in your eyes. “Thomas… oh Thomas, I love you too! I have for so long, I… I just didn’t know… I never thought… yes!” You breathed out, barely audible. “Yes, I want to marry you!”

“Yes?” He smiled cordially when he lifted you off the ground, pressing his thin lips against yours and igniting a fire deep inside you. His soft mouth burned like a thousand stars, sending jolts of electricity through your whole body and capturing you in a charming curse you never wanted to break free from again as you both stumbled onto the bed, spending the rest of the night appreciating each other’s bodies, talking, kissing, touching. Not sleeping with each other, of course—Thomas was a very traditional man; that he honourably promised he would save for your wedding night. Perhaps in the end, this journey had not been in vain after all.

[prongsno]

Le Château de la Belle au Bois Dormant (The Castle Of Sleeping Beauty)

based off an anon prompt / Sirius has lost his little brother, Regulus, in Disneyland Paris. (2492 words) read on ao3

“They’re going to kill me.”

“I’m sure whatever you’ve done isn’t that bad.”

Sirius rolls his eyes down the phone, making a face at the ever so calm and collected voice of James Potter. He bites his lip, looking behind him again. He’s getting worried, and Sirius Black is hardly ever worried.

“I’ve lost Reg.”

“Lost? Like misplaced? You can’t find him?”

“No, lost as in the other lost. Of course I mean that you moron.”

James is silent for a second. “But, aren’t you in Paris?”

“Yes.”

“In Disneyland?”

Sirius closes his eyes for a second. “Yes.”

“And you’ve just lost your seven year old baby brother?”

Somehow, James has the ability to make things sound ten thousand times worse. Sirius groans, and turns around again, scanning the crowds as if little Regulus will just pop out behind someone.

He’s standing slap, bang in the middle of the pathway right in front of Sleeping Beauty’s palace. Of all places, it would be in one of the busiest parts of the theme park that he loses his brother.

“Go ask a security guard or something, maybe they’ll put an announcement in for him.”

“Mum would find out, they’d want me to call her.”

“Then just ask people around you. You’re fluent, surely someone must have seen him. I would stay and talk but mum’s got me looking after the dinner. Let me know how it goes.”

“A fat load of help you are, I’m not getting you any macaroons now.”

But James has already hung up and Sirius has no choice but to let out an aggravated groan and throw the phone into his pocket. The entrance to the castle is heaving, and he keeps getting pushed around, people send him dirty looks as he takes up the space.

He needs to find Reg. And fast. Before anything happens.

He used to hate travelling to France every year to see his relatives, with a burning passion. But he supposes now, with flipping Mickey ears on his head and Regulus’s Daffy Duck backpack on his shoulders, that being pretty much fluent in the language does have its uses.

He starts off by asking random people who pass by. Have you seen a young boy, with matching mickey ears and a mickey mouse top?

He even gets out his phone, pointing helplessly to the photo they took only minutes before the little scoundrel ran off.

No one seems to have seen him.

One person does say yes, and Sirius has a few seconds of heart pounding relief before he realises that the person has no idea what he’s saying and doesn’t understand French. He asks in English, but they don’t understand that either and so he walks off feeling worse than he did before.

He asks a group of American tourists, who are deeply apologetic and then ask him if he’s from London.

Every person, to his left and right, he asks.

It becomes almost second nature to him, speaking in French and asking, rather politely but also forcefully, if they’ve seen his brother.

He’s always expecting a ‘no’, and so he’s already setting himself up for the bitter disappointment when he taps the girl in front of him, shoves his phone in her face and asks her the same question in French he’s been asking for what feels like a lifetime.

“Er, Jay swiss desu-lay. But, par-lay voo Ang-lay?”

He blinks. The girl stares back.

He’s never heard someone butcher the French language quite like her, it’s actually an achievement and for a second he’s absolutely shocked for words. Then, despite the turmoil he’s been putting himself through and the nerves that are still wrecking at his gut, he laughs.

The poor girls stares at him in horror.

“I’m so sorry,” she cries, placing a hand on his shoulder. “I have no idea what you just said. Desu-lay.”

“It’s okay.”

She looks relieved, but now extremely embarrassed. “You’re English.”

“I am.” For a second, when he stares into her eyes, he forgets everything. He clears his throat and fiddles with the zip on his leather jacket (Regulus had rolled his eyes when Sirius had put it on this morning, saying it looked like he was in the Mafia). “So are you?”

She’s staring back, mouth half open in a daze. Then she blinks and nods her head and tucks her hair back behind her ear.

“Err yeah. English. That’s me.”

She’s got pretty eyes, and the sweetest face he’s ever seen.

God, what’s wrong with him all of a sudden?

He’s never been speechless, James says all the time that he could talk the hind legs off a donkey. So why, in front of this girl he’s literally never seen before, has he suddenly lost all ability to speak?

She reaches out, fingers fluttering against his. He sucks in a breath, he hates people touching him, but with her it’s different somehow? Her hand is warm, and oddly comforting. She takes the phone gently from him, and stares at the photo of Regulus that’s still up on the screen.

“Is this your brother?”

He nods. “Um, yeah. Regulus. I can’t find him.”

He realises with a jolt that they’re standing oddly close together. Her shoulders brush against his chest, she’s a head shorter than him at least, and he can smell the faintest hint of strawberries. What is going on?

“I haven’t seen him, I’m so sorry.” She hands the phone back to him, hands brushing against his again. He’s blushing like a little kid as she pulls her eyes away from his.

Suddenly someone is waving something in his face. “A rose! A rose for you and your girlfriend?”

Sirius takes a step back, jumping at the sudden sound and trips up over the girl’s feet. She stumbles and he has to reach out to grab hold of her shoulder, pulling her back with a grunt as she hits his chest.

“Oh, we’re not -” He starts, words failing when the flower vendor winks at them. He immediately lets go of her shoulder, and the girl is blushing as she takes a step away from him.

“Don’t deny it! You two have such chemistry!” The man, who’s holding a large bucket full of roses, doesn’t look like he’s going to leave unless he’s got a euro in his hand and suddenly he starts monologuing in French about how much the two of them look like they’re in love.

Sirius takes out his wallet immediately, slaps two euros into the man’s hand and takes the rose. Merci’s are exchanged and the flower vendor goes off to look for his next victims.  

“I’m Sirius,” he says, groaning in his head at the complete cliched feel of this whole situation. He numbly hands the rose to her and she takes it with a grin. He’s such an idiot.

“Mary.”

Mary twirls the rose between her fingers, a bashful looking smile on her lips like she’s never been given a flower before. “Thank you, it’s lovely.”

He’s smiling again, like a fool, when his phone starts ringing.

“Mother!” He tries putting on his happiest, I-haven’t-lost-my-brother voice and glances wearily in Mary’s direction. She gives him the thumbs up and it’s strange how she can reassure him so easily. “Yeah, Reg is having loads of fun! You want to talk to him? He’s err, he’s currently on a ride. Yeah. He didn’t want me to go with him, said I’d be too embarrassing. I’ll give you a call back when he’s done. Okay. Bye!”

“She is going to kill me!” He throws his phone rather murderously into Reg’s Daffy Duck bag, and grabs at his hair in mild panic.

“Do you remember where you saw him last?” Her voice sends a shiver up his spine.

“Sleeping Beauty’s castle. I turned away for a second and the little rascal had run off.”

Mary nods her head, rearranges the strap of her bag and sets off walking.

“You don’t have to come, sorry. I shouldn’t have made it your problem too-”

She shakes her head and continues to speed walk past the crowds of people. He has to jog a little to catch up and, when he’s matching her pace, slides her a curious gaze.

“You’re in Disneyland Paris, and you’d rather help a stranger find his little brother than go around on rides? Aren’t you with anyone?”

She smooths her hair back again, dodging out of the way just in time as a group of excited kids barge past them. “I was. Till the knob broke up with me, just as we were about to go on The Little Mermaid.”

“Ouch. That’s low. What a dick.” Then, because he has no idea what else to say, and because he’s extremely aware of her hand brushing against his as they push through the crowds, he apologises.

She laughs, saying he has nothing to be sorry for and he knows because it’s such a pet-peeve of his when people say sorry for something they didn’t do and have no power over anything in the situation.

“I’ve made up my mind, Sirius,” she says, the name rolling off her tongue as if they’ve known each other far longer than just ten minutes. “I might not be much help, but I’m going to help any way I can.”

He thinks, in the least creepiest way possible, he might love her, just a little bit.

Finally they make it back to the castle, where countless couples stand and pose for selfies, sharing kisses and candy-floss alike.

It’s packed, he overhears a group of Parisian teenagers squealing because they’ve just caught a glimpse of Gaston up ahead, and suddenly a whole swarm of giddy fans are rushing past in the hopes of finding him. People are pushing everywhere and he’s not even thinking straight as he grabs hold of Mary’s hand so he can’t lose her in the crowd.

She seems to have the same idea because their fingers meet halfway, immediately latching onto one another for dear life.

He tries to ignore the fluttery feeling in his gut, tries to ignore the fact that he’s still wearing the blasted Mickey ears that Reg forced him to wear and that he, more than likely, looks ridiculous and stupid rather than cool and sophisticated.

But all that matters is that she’s clinging onto him for dear life as the pair of them are swept into the castle.

He barely gave the castle a second glance before, when he was panicking and running around in a daze trying to find Reg. And now, with Mary by his side, their hands locked together, he realises it showcases Princess Aurora and Prince Philip's fairy tale love story.

There’s a flash of a camera, lightning up the darkened room for a second before it vanishes. The crowd’s already been and gone now, in the distance someone yells ‘Gaston!’ and there’s a cheer, but the castle’s not swarming as it once was.

A kid screams in excitement and demands to see the dragon and Sirius, who is getting sweaty palms drops Mary’s hand as casually as he can. It’s too dark in the room to tell, but he thinks he sees her flex her hand, rubbing her thumb against the inside of her fingers.

He shivers.

She stops right by the stained glass windows, the light streaming through and making her face shine with different colours. He looks around the room, forcing himself to stare at something else that’s not her.

“Do you remember anything he said? Something that would help you know where he’s gone?”

He shakes his head at her question, he honestly cannot remember anymore. It’s been almost an hour, he is officially the worst big brother in the world.

“He was just too damn excited about everything. The castle, the dragon. Seeing Goofy. I checked my phone for one second and then he was nowhere.”

“Did you see her?”

“What?”

She smiles. “The dragon. Maleficent. Did you both go to see it?”

He lets out a breath, his lungs are aching. “No.”

They’re grabbing each other’s hands again, racing off towards The Dragon’s Lair. It’s so dark underneath the castle and the two of them take out their phones, activating the torch. He gives Mary a nod and she follows close behind him as he yells out a panicked ‘Reg!’.

A group of five give him a funny look, but Sirius doesn’t care. He barges past them, looking in all of the nooks and crannies where a small boy of seven could fit.

“You don’t have to yell out my name!”

His mouth burns and he lets out a gasp as he turns. There Reg is, leaning against the rails like some model who’s waiting for an assistant to hand him a mocha-decaf-latte with extra cream.

“You little monster!” Sirius grabs him by his top and then pulls him close to give him a tight squeeze. “Where the hell did you run off to?”

Regulus pulls away after a few seconds, finding it highly embarrassing that his older brother is hugging him. “I told you I wanted to see the dragon,” he answers rather calmly.

Sirius blinks. “You’ve been here for the past hour?”

“Yes.” Regulus rolls his eyes. The boy glances towards Mary, who stands a little behind them. “Who’s that?”

“This is Mary-”

“Is she your girlfriend?” Regulus nods, with a wide grin, towards the rose that Mary’s still holding between her fingers. “Sirius’s got a crush. Sirius bought a rose.” The little scoundrel laughs and tugs at his backpack that still hangs from Sirius’s shoulders. He’s glad to get rid of the damn thing, and practically throws it into Regulus’s arms.

“Come on then,” Reg says once he’s reunited with his bag. “I want some candy-floss.” He turns towards the exit and Sirius, who is never letting his younger brother out of his sight again, tugs at Mary’s hand.

“Thank you so much,” he says as they pass the dragon and head towards the exit. “You’re actually a lifesaver.”

Mary laughs, grinning at the hyper sight of Regulus who dances and chants ‘candy-floss’. “He’s adorable. I’m so glad you found him.”

“You found him. I honestly cannot thank you enough.” He scratches his neck, takes off the mickey ears and runs a hand through his hair. “Er, so what were you planning on doing now?”

She shrugs. “Nothing now that my arse of an ex has gone. You?”

“Just going around with Reg.” He swallows hard. “You could, um - you’re welcome to join us. If you wanted to, I mean. I could treat you to a coffee. As a thank you.”

“That’s code for a date,” Regulus pops his head from under Sirius’s arms, giving Mary a grin that’s so similar to his brother’s. “He’s asking you out.”

She smiles, and Sirius feels like he’s floating. “I guess my answer is yes, then.”

[castawxayaway]

no turning back

prompt 98: “I’ve had enough.”

a very lovely reader has requested no. 98 from this prompt list I reblogged with dan. as always, you ask and I deliver. if you want to see the list for yourself and maybe request one *nudge nudge* feel free to! enjoy this, this thing (I haven’t got a lot to say really, lots and lots of angst- which was actually really refreshing to write)

oh, and to the anon who requested a few days ago- if you’re reading this the piece you asked for will be going up tomorrow night! :)

prompt list / collection of my writing / requests open

Unable to control the nerves that arose as I heard the announcement come through the speakers that we would be landing shortly a smile crept up. “Visiting someone special dear?” Turning my head I saw the elderly lady who had been asleep for the duration of the flight, now awake ask me with a sweet look on her face whilst her husband read a book, half asleep still. 

Laughing to myself I could feel my heart beating faster at the idea, of the fact that I was so close to seeing him. “I’m seeing my boyfriend. It’s been five months since I last saw him.” She raised her eyebrows in surprise before settling back into her chair. 

“Well you better enjoy your time with him then, make every moment count.” She placed her hand on mine and I thanked her before she leant on her husband, drifting back off to sleep. 

Watching them together made me feel warm inside, that the removed warmth that has lacked for months will soon return. Just a matter of hours now. Texting Kyle I told him how long I’d be, thankfully he arranged to come and get me so I can surprise Dan. The image of him, surprise etched into his face as I stand there outside of his door makes my heart flutter at the same speed as the butterflies in my stomach. 

As I found Kyle after making my way through the arrivals lounge we talked about tour, about how life has been without seeing any of them. “I’ve missed having you around.” I see the truth in his words, they were written in his smile, the longing kind. 

Seeing the hotel in sight everything was resurfacing, I wanted to suppress it all. I didn’t want Kyle to see my smile faltering as he doesn’t know about the fight we had, the real reason why I haven’t been visiting. “Has Dan mentioned me much, whilst you’ve been on tour?” He hesitates to reply, focusing on the road. “Thought as such.” Sighing to myself I rest my arm against the window, Kyle glancing over when he can. 

“Listen, if things don’t work out between the two of you, we all still miss you. Just because you two are in a rough patch doesn’t mean we can’t spend time together, right?” He pleaded before looking at me with a stupid grin, breaking the tension. “Either way, you’ve got three days with us, so let’s make them count.” 

Before I had the chance to respond he parked the car and all I could hear was the yells the night before he left, how deafening they were becoming. ‘What do you mean, you can’t do this? How the fuck do you think I feel being thousands of miles away all the time?’ His words thump in my ears, aching my brain as well as my heart as the love was draining out of us. 

In silence we walk through the lavish entrance the echoing of shoes against the marble sounded too many times as we both walked towards the lift whilst others hovered in the entrance, watching us go by. Standing in the lift it felt as if I had lost any touch or contact with life, despite Kyle being inches away. The uneasy feeling in my stomach only grew, it never ceases to build up moments before we are reunited. It only causes me unnecessary amounts of grief and consciousness not knowing what to expect from him, regardless of the outcome we’d become nothing more than strangers, but was it really worth it? Or was I merely seeking comfort? 

Now I question my own motives for being here as my eyes wander to Kyle who keeps his eyes locked with his own reflection in the glass whilst I cower from my own. Walking along the never ending corridor I try and shut out the smell of cleaning product, the stale smell that clings to the fibres in the carpet probably older than the cleaners who work here. I focus on the room numbers, wondering how many have passed through here for similar purposes to my own. When I was growing up I’d hate thinking of such a thing, about the invisible dirt they’d leave on the sheets, the act of knowing about others in the rooms either side. Now here I am, being my own worst hypocrite. 

Kyle points to the room three doors down from his own, before giving me a supportive hug and speaking in a low voice. “You know where we are, if you need us.” I thanked him and began to walk away, but he whispered my name causing me to turn around and face him. “Just keep the noise down, alright.” With a wink he chuckled to himself and went back into his room, leaving me alone in the empty corridor where unknown acts hide behind the wooden doors. 

Standing in front of it I lift the key that Kyle slipped into my pocket into the lock, slowly twisting it whilst trying to remain quiet. As it unlocks my heart stops, every feeling stands on edge like the hairs on my arms until I peer through the door whilst my bag remains outside. Smiling to myself I open my mouth to say his name, but before I have the chance do someone else does. 

I freeze as my eyes lock with his body. His body on top of someone else’s. Every worry, every fear I had about him touring rises from the pit of my stomach, I can feel it stabbing my heart repeatedly whilst my brain mutters ‘I told you so’ with too much patronization. Tearing my glossy eyes away I drown out the moans they make as the door shuts. 

Picking my bag up I pause as I collapse to the ground, unable to stop myself from shattering. With such force I stare at his door, wishing the heavy look in my eyes could burn it down, expose him to the truth of his actions, the pain he doesn’t know he has caused. ‘So what, this is it? Doesn’t look like you’ll respond anytime soon so that’s it then.’ The last thing he said to me in person as I went to bed that night, he didn’t join me that night, instead he just left. I always wondered where he went, but maybe now I know. 

Picking myself up I wipe my eyes forcefully with my sleeve, letting my skin burn momentarily as I walk up to Kyle’s door, trying my best to hide my pain. Composing myself I clench my fist as I knock on the door, patiently waiting for him as I take a few deep breaths. Hearing the door open my eyes focus on his colourful socks, the sort that I knew didn’t belong to Kyle. 

Lifting my head back up my eyes locked with the deep concern of green, of Will. He mutters my name and before he can continue I break, the image is burned into my memory and all I can hear is her moaning his name. ‘Dan, I’m sorry. We shouldn’t have ended things the way we did last night. Please, just ring me.’ That was the first of many messages I left him after he left, I couldn’t, I wouldn’t let things end the way they did. But now, now I want nothing more than to look him in the eyes and see how he reacts. Will wraps his arms around me and I fall into them, he helps me into the room identical to the one I had just seen, yet now it was in entirely different circumstances. 

It took them a few hours to get me to speak, to actually get words out of my mouth that weren’t muffled or concealed with sobs or confused remarks to myself. Once I had told them, once my brain allowed me to explain the split second of what I had seen they all remained silent, Kyle clenched his jaw whilst Will tightened his fists. Woody would find out soon enough, he was out having a meal with Chrissy. 

“That piece of shit.” Kyle muttered under his breath as he shook his head. “Piece of fucking shit!” He kicked the bed as his voice rose, and then sat down, holding onto his foot.

Will edges closer towards me as I blankly stare straight at the door as I perch on the very edge of the bed. Despite sitting on the bare minimum of the fabric I can feel the dirt climb and crawl over my skin, the secrets and shame that lies embedded into the sheets now infecting me, affecting my outlook on it all. 

After a while of listening to the two of them discuss what to do, how to react I stand up at the sound of a giggle echoing through the hallway. Walking to the door I peer through the peephole as she glides on by, blowing him a kiss. I can feel my blood boiling yet I feel as if any warmth in my body had been truly drained, wasted by being filled with love for someone as heartless as him. 

My eye remains glued to the glass as I see a figure walk to the door, backing away I stare at the two of them, wide eyed. “It’s Dan.” I mouth and they both stand up, the three of us desperate to find somewhere for me to hide. Kyle opens up the single door wardrobe and helps me climb up onto the suitcases, giving me a small smile before closing it. 

I sit in silence, hidden amongst cloth and denim whilst outside I can hear mumbled conversations spoken in one voice that I once termed as heartwarming, mixed with two cold tones. As I sit still I can feel my heart trying to pick itself back up, trying to mend itself after the unexpected need to shatter at a sight I never thought I’d witness. ‘Please, whatever I said, I didn’t mean. We were both tipsy, things were accused and I take it all back. I could never hate you, Dan. Never.’ I shake my head as I think back to the messages I left to an empty line on the phone, how I told him I’d never hate him. Now that is all I feel with a splash of pain thrown in for good measure. 

After my legs go dead and the smell of Kyle’s aftershave is embedded into my nostrils the door opens, resulting in me ungracefully falling out. With their help I get back to my feet, the shared look on their faces only growing; a pure look of fury. “He was so relaxed, so chirpy.” Will shakes his head and lies down on the bed whilst I stand still on the spot. “How does he think he can get away with this? With hurting you, still?” 

An idea pops to mind as I zone out, focusing on the industrial buildings outside, the never ending sea of brickwork and hard working lives that are being lived just beyond my view. “I think I know what to do,” Speaking up they both focus on me as I take a seat in front of the mirror, not wanting to concentrate on my appearance. Explaining the idea they both smirk to each other, it is a bit dramatic, it’s a bit unexpected from me, but that is why it is genius. 

“I’ll believe it once I see it.” Kyle scoffs lightly and with that I walk over to my bag, picking through the jumpers to find them. Holding them up unashamed their jaws drop whilst I raise an eyebrow. “Yep, I believe you.” He swallows heavily and all I can do is chuckle to myself. 

“He won’t know what’s coming.” Will remarks nodding to me. 

*

Looking at my reflection I turn, checking myself out in the different angles before focusing on the shoes behind me, resting on the toilet seat lid. Picking them up I place the uncomfortable platforms on, magically growing a few inches taller. I proceed to tie the ribbon up at the front, forcing my chest closer, tighter, already knowing he won’t be able to take his eyes off of me. 

Peering my head around the two of them lie on the bed, scrolling through their phones. “Is he in his room?” I call out and the two of them pause and glance my way. 

“Nope, he’s gone to get coffee. He should be back in about ten minutes” Kyle replied and with that I took a deep breath and revealed myself to the two of them. “Holy shit.” 

Glancing up at them they both remained still, silent, but still. “Well if I’ve got that reaction from the two of you then I have high hopes for Dan.” Walking with some difficulty over to my bag I try to bend down, but the lace around my waist constricts me. Will walks over and picks it up for me, trying his best to focus on my eyes and not wander elsewhere. “Be back soon.” I blow a kiss to them as I pull an old jumper dress on, take a smaller bag and shut the door. 

Standing in the hallway I can feel my own words about what I’m doing burning my brain. How I said this was a low blow, that when people did this in films I would feel uncomfortable, looks like I’m my own biggest hypocrite now.  With my body concealed by the front of the door I try my hardest to control my breathing, it gets hitched in my throat as I stand with the key in hand. Slowly I unlock it, moving the key until it clicks.

Walking inside I try not to focus too hard on the bad, on that bed. It’s still stained, covered in his wrongdoings, in his deceit. I start by walking over to the bed, making it a little bit neater. Then, I walk over to the bathroom, checking my appearance in this attire I never thought I’d wear. The black lace bodysuit, how it dips right down into a harsh V nicely paired with some red heels that were so high I could stab his heart until he felt pain like I have done for months. 

Taking a seat in the small chair hidden behind the wardrobe I sit and wait, all whilst trying to keep calm as I keep my bag behind my back, out of sight. As I glance around the room I see some odd things of his, I notice a notebook and pen, something I got him before the last tour- incase he had any ideas, any new inspirations to write down. My eyes trail the desk, his contacts messily piled up, an odd sock followed by a couple of pennies- what else was I meant to expect? 

Sitting still I hear the door unlock and my mind goes into overdrive. Forcing myself to sit upright I try and position myself in a seductive manner, one leg crossed over the other as I twirl my hair, hating myself for it but secretly liking it. He comes closer and glances my way, barely noticing me until he pauses, turns and collapses onto the bed. 

He lowers his glasses as his eyes wander over the sight before him, the left side of his mouth rising. Standing up I kick the heels off, and take slow steps towards him, trying to relive the last time we were in a hotel. Taking his jacket off I let it fall to the ground before kissing his neck, whispering into his ear, “Miss me?” He moans a yes, making me smile to myself as I push him onto the bed. 

Taking his glasses off I climb on over him until I’m straddling him. His hands roam around whilst I take off his jeans, trying not to shake as I undo his belt. “Oh, one second.” I mutter to him as he looks in awe at me, already I know I have him wrapped around my finger. 

Walking to my bag I take out the handcuffs, holding them up to him. Already I can see the hesitation lie heavy in his blue eyes, but I laugh stupidly, “Oh come on, it’s a bit of fun.” I convince him way too easily, he complies and his hands are locked. 

“You sure have changed.” He laughs to me as I lower my head to his.

My lips hover about his, then I make direct eye contact to him, “I know.” A single kiss is all I allow him, knowing he craves more but I lift my head up, enjoying the torment more than I had expected. Moving my head down I pull his trousers down with ease, then giving him an innocent look as I hold onto his underwear. 

“Do it.” He says, licking his lips. Already I can see how desperate he is, which only makes this all the more fun. 

Lifting my hands away I go to my bag, finding the last thing I wanted. Before he has the chance to notice my bag slams down hard onto him, a loud groan of pain spreading through the room- not the sound everyone would expect to here for a change. “That is for being a cheating arsehole.” I can see the veins in his arms popping as he clenches his fists in the cuffs, unable to pull them from the restraint. 

“What’re you talking about?” He speaks through gritted teeth, slowly pulling himself together whilst I sit down next to him, my hand now resting on his cheek. 

Smiling to him he glances up, eyes full of confusion. “I think we both know. I hope you enjoyed it though, as I’ve had enough of trying with you.” Kissing his cheek I can see the red lipstick mark left, standing up I pick my bag and shoes up and head towards the door. 

“Wait! How am I supposed to get out?” He yells out and all I do is pick my coat up and slip it on. 

Wearing a sweet smile and doey eyes I reach into my pocket for the keys. “Oh you mean these?” I can see his face lighting up, the fact that he thinks I’ll release him that easily? Please. Throwing them out of the window I can see any hope fade from his face. “Oops. Have fun explaining this one.” Walking out I can hear him yelling my name, swearing at me but as soon as the door shuts it stops.

Approaching Will and Kyle’s room I can’t help but smirk as I walk inside. The two of them eager to hear. “You might end up having to search for some keys on the side of the road, sorry ‘bout that.” I thank them both for their help and support before taking my long coat and laying it out whilst I put my converse back on. 

“So, what now?” Will asks as he looks at my packed bag. 

Standing up I reach over for my coat, ensuring it is fully wrapped around my body before tying the waist up. Pulling my hair out I contemplate my response, “I’ll probably get some food, have a wander, then see if I can get an earlier flight home.” 

They both exchange a look, “You’re more than welcome to stay for another night. I mean, your flight is tomorrow night.” Kyle suggests and Will agrees. I simply hug both of them, unable to repay them for their generosity. 

“It’s what friends do.” Will states, muffled in my hair. 

“That and you look good in lace.” Kyle remarks as he chuckles to himself. 

Picking my bags up they walk me to the lift, “Oh, one last favour?” I ask them as I wait for the lift to arrive. “Take a picture, can’t have him forgetting the wrong girl to mess with.” They agree to it and I give them one final hug before getting into the lift. 

As the door closes I lean back against the mirror, staring at my reflection rather than avoiding it. The heat of the moment is over and I’m left with the reality; the reality that I am truly alone now. Reaching into my bag I pull out some sunglasses, the sort that are big enough to hide any emotion in my eyes, to disguise tears. 

Walking into the main entrance I may look like I have it all together, but that is the misleading thing about covering half your face; they’ll never see you cry.