#that’s no waves; I’m seeing them this week and it’ll be sick!

[aeolianblues]

You all seemed to like the idea of the weekly poll to take a lesser-known song along with you as you scroll, so here comes the first of these new music Fridays!

Choose songs based on the 30-second Spotify snippets if you don’t know them (I’ve tried to make sure there’s something you won’t know), and if you like them they’re yours* to carry along on your trip!

*as in add them to your library etc., if you like them a lot come ask me and I’ll try and dig up a Bandcamp like for you, hee hee

Poll’s open for a week, so if you miss this one, I’ll hopefully be back with another one by next Friday!

Happy scrolling!

(Edit: yup I scheduled it too early, the poll has the wrong Connie Constance song aaaa. I do mean Kamikaze. Both are great songs)

[raven-at-the-writing-desk]

Floyd Leech: Cinderella Step

GOOD GOD, FLOYD 😭 Put your grippers AWAY, I don’t wanna see those… (flashbacks to the horror of Dorm Uniform Jade groovy)

P.S. You should listen to Cinderella Step by Daoko :)) I enjoy it a lot, and it’s also the song that I named this ficlet after. I feel like that first full line (“Though you are the worst, I can’t help but love you”) is very evocative of the NRC boys 😂

Rise and Shine!

It was easy to tell which side of the room was Floyd's. It always looked like a hurricane had run through, scattering clothes all over every avaliable surface. Snack crumbs are sprinkled like a generous garnish on his desk and shelf. His belongings—interesting odds and ends he had collected over the weeks—were similarly strewn haphazardly, wherever there was free space to be occupied.

There was only one thing that the storm seemed to have missed.

His shoes.

A glossy black--patent leather. Large yet sleek, tapering into pointed toes. It was the same pair he wore every day with his school uniform, yet there was not so much as a scratch or a speck of dirt on them.

Pristine.

The one thing he takes good care of, you thought. Must be magic.

Other shoes sat in neat rows on a rack. Boots, sneakers, sandals, in shapes and colors you've never even imagined. The variety astounded you.

Floyd bounded about the room collecting his things. He hopped around on one leg, slipping on a sock, then alternated to the other leg. Next he slung his blazer, still slightly wrinkled from having been crumpled and tossed over a chair last night, on over his prim grey-lilac vest. His striped tie was forgotten, left forlorn on his bed as he yoinked the patent leather shoes and slipped them on.

“‘K, I’m ready," Floyd announced cheerily. "Let’s get going, koebi-chan~"

You stared at his messy room. "You're not going to tidy up a little before heading out?"

He blinked. "Hmm? Why would I? Stuff's gonna shift around anyway, so there's no point in doing that."

Floyd strolled out, hands casually tucked in his pockets. You followed after him, falling in time with his footsteps. Today, they were long and languid, like waves lazily combing the beach.

You knew what that meant; good mood, best to not disturb it.

"... Right." You offered a small, reassuring smile. “Hey, I noticed that you have a lot of shoes—and you take such good care of them.”

“Yeah. Cuz we don’t really have’m where I come from. Gotta make the most of my human experience and all.”

"You don't exactly dress in a shirt and pants under the sea either," you pointed out with a shrug.

“Shoes are special.” He said it with surprisingly conviction, an uncharacteristic seriousness set in his eyes. "You kinda need them to do the things humans do every day, least without getting nagged at. Jumping, dancing, strolling down the street."

“All this talk about footwear… You sound like Cinderella.”

“Ehh… Do I give you those vibes?” There was a crackle entangled with his words.

“You’re the kind of guy that would sneak out if Azul told you to stay put.” You paused, then added, “just to prove a point.”

He gave a razor-sharp grin in response. “Touché.”

Floyd glanced down at his feet. His eyes barely lingered there for half a second before they flicked to yours. “Glass slippers sound cool though.”

“Glass slippers? Really? You’re not scared they’d break…? I thought you’d be into more durable shoes. Something easy to move around in.”

“I’d try’m on at least once, as long as it’s not lame lookin’. I’ll try anything at least once. Glass slippers, a puss’s boots, ballet flats from twelve dancing princesses, shoes made by elves…”

“Even cursed shoes?” you asked. “Professor Trein was telling us about them the other day. Put them on, and you’re cursed to dance forever and ever—or at least until you collapse from exhaustion.”

Floyd made a face. “Nah. Dancing’s fun, but not if you do it all the time. I’d get sick of it.”

"There’s more than one way of dancing.”

“Duh. I know that. But it’ll still get pretty boring after a while.”

“I don’t think so.” You shook your head, your feet coming to a stop. “Dancing’s a lot like having a conversation, except your mouth doesn’t ever need to move. You just let your body do the talking.”

Your legs criss-crossed in a quick jig. "This is being excited." Standing on your toes, you carefully elevated yourself. "This is whispering." Putting all your weight into your feet, you stomped. "And this is shouting!"

Floyd watched your demonstration in silence. Gold, right. Olive, left. Together, mysterious and mirthful.

“Sounds fun,” he piped up at last. “I want in on this."

Before you had the chance to respond, Floyd's had had already latched onto yours. The other wrapped around your waist, tugging you against his chest. You lurched against him, and the sound of his raspy laughter filling your eardrums.

“You wanna dance? Let’s dance. Then you tell me what my dancing says to you.”

“W-Wait, Floyd…!”

He didn’t.

Floyd strung you along and down the street, swinging you erratically in his arms. With his long limbs swaying, he moved as naturally as a fish amid coral. For a creature of the sea, he had such grace on land that you could never tell his true origins.

He was the wind, a water current, a wayward traveler. Constantly changing and never truly contained.

Your panic and surprise easily melted into light-hearted laughter. And your feet, too, began to weave freely, as if wading on the shoreline, drawing indiscriminate shapes in the sand.

Realization struck you when you looked at him again. Your heart went thump-thump-thump, in a frantic little dance of its own.

What he’s trying to convey is…

Floyd met your gaze, sparks flying. His fingers interlocked with yours, he leaned in and grinned. Cheeks ruddy, eyes shining with exhibition.

“We don’t need words. Just our dancin’ shoes and each other!”

[empress-simps]

For poly!marauders request (I saw you asked for some) could you do one where the reader faints out of nowhere and the boys get all panicked and worried and fret over her? 🌙

Hii! Thank you for the great request🫶🏻 It’ll be the first time I do a Poly!Marauder fic so pls do bear with me, I tweaked it a bit, hope you enjoy!

Worried Sick

Pairings: Poly!Marauders x Reader

CW: Mentions of toxic habits, Sirius being an arse, reader fainting, and language.

To say that you were tired would be an understatement. You were exhausted- mentally, and physically as you were buried in a mountain of books, flipping through almost a hundred pages an hour as you tried to juggle three essays and review for NEWTS all at once.

You were so immersed in your studying, the sound of pages flipping and scratching of the quill against parchment made you slip into a hyper-focused mode that you don’t notice the passage of time making you effectively miss lunch and dinner.

“There’s my smart darling!”

Sirius grins, sneaking up to you and kissing your cheek. You jolted, looking up as you saw him, and your other boyfriends sit next to you in the library.

“Hey guys.” You try your best to muster up a cheery smile for them. Remus, who was seated beside you frowns as he notices your pale and tired face. “We haven’t seen you today, love.” You smiled sheepishly, “I was finishing up the essays we’re assigned this week.” Sirius shakes his head in a disapproving manner. “Darling, you know we could just copy off of Remus’s essay when he does it, right?” A protest from Remus was heard, making you chuckle.

“I don’t think our moony would appreciate that.” You cracked a small smile, “But he lets us copy off of his essays ever since we can remember!” James defended Sirius who nodded agreeingly.

“What we would appreciate though, is you not missing out on dinner.” Remus told you, pulling out an apple and two dishes that the house elves prepared, (bribed by James) placing it in front of you.

“Erm... I don’t really have an appetite right now, love.” You grimaced, seeing the stern expression of the werewolf. “You need to eat, darling.” James pleads, puppy eyes activating. You looked at the other two, they seemed to mirror James. “Please love, you’re making us worried sick.” Remus gently pushed the food in your direction.

“Alright then…” How could you possibly deny your adorable boyfriends?

This continued for a few days or so, each day got the boys increasingly worried than yesterday. Sleeping for four hours (five if you’re lucky) and studying all day became your new routine, you hardly even spend time with the boys anymore, only during breakfast at the great hall since you mostly skip lunch and dinner to study. If it weren’t for your friends and your boyfriends, you would’ve already starved.

You groaned, plopping down in between Remus and James, taking a bite of the toast in front of you, and ignoring the light headedness you were feeling since you woke up. Marlene looked up from her plate and winced as she took in the sight of you.

“Merlin, y/n. You look worse than a dementor.”

“Thanks Marls, appreciate it.” You grumbled, taking a swig of the pumpkin juice, grimacing as you felt that a huge gulp of the beverage and a small bite of toast was too much for your stomach to handle.

“I’m serious, when was the last time you had a good night’s rest?” She frowns, shaking her head as she gave a pointed look at your boyfriends. “There’s already three of you and you can’t even manage to take care of your girl?”

“Not my fault she chooses to stick her nose into books rather than spending time with us.” Sirius huffed, crossing his arms over his chest, his dramatic and petty side surfacing. “Pads.” Remus warns, the light headedness that you’ve felt suddenly worsens as you feel the urge to throw up. Lily seemed to notice, shooting a worried glance on your way as you waved it off.

“What Moony? It’s true! It’s like she forgot she even is in a committed relationship with us.” Sirius spat, getting riled up as James tried to diffuse the situation.  “Sirius, I already said I’m sorry…” She rasped out, trying to reach for his hand but he jerked it away. “Don’t be a knobhead, Pads.” Remus glares at him, irritated by how he’s acting.

Sirius rolled his eyes, it was obvious that he was hurt; You rarely spend time with them anymore, accidentally pushing them away and shutting them out just because of those stupid academics. “Whatever.” He grunts, and stands up, walking away from the table.

You felt yourself get weak; as the great hall spins around you, cold sweat started to form on your temple as spots slowly made it’s wany into your vision. Despite your body practically screaming for you to just sit and stay still, you push yourself from the benches and follow him. “Sirius, love- “He turns to you, frowning. “What now?”

 You opened your mouth, about to say a word when suddenly your legs gave out, the spots grew larger as you tried to look at Sirius before your world suddenly faded to black. You heard screams from the students, the loudest ones you recognized were from your friends, especially Marlene and Lily.

“Shit!” Sirius was thankful for his awfully fast reflexes that he managed to catch you before you hit your head on the cold floor. James and Remus rushed to the both of you. “Bloody hell, Pads!” James kneels in front of you, gently tapping your cheek as a sense of urgency surrounds them. “Darling, please open your eyes, can you hear me?” James asked you, every second that ticks makes the feeling of dread in his stomach grow larger.

“P-prongs, Moony… I promise I didn’t know she was going to faint…” Sirius whimpered as he cradles you, eyes looking frazzled and darting back and forth between his lovers. James felt his breath become faster, as you didn’t respond to any of his attempts. Other students started to gather around to take a peek on what’s happening in the middle of the great hall while Marlene and the other Gryffindor students kept them from nearing. Remus knelt next to James, trying not to freak out like what the other two are already doing. He slowly placed his trembling hand on your forehead. “No fever, but we need to take her to Madame Pomfrey.” He announces, biting his lip as Sirius lifts you up bridal style, the three of them rushing you to the hospital wing.

The bright and harsh light of the hospital wing made you wince, you slowly blink, trying to adjust to the brightness of your surroundings. “Darling! You’re awake!” James tackles you into a hug, almost squeezing out the air from your lungs.

“Prongs! Be careful!” Remus’s tone was harsh, as if scolding James. The boy slowly pulled away, pouting, which Remus had ignored. “How are you, love?” Remus’s gaze softened as he looked in your direction, taking your hand in his as he rubbed circles in the back of your hand.

 “For the most part, I’m fine.” You croaked out, James immediately gave you water. After taking a few sips, you let your eyes wander around, someone was missing- Where’s Sirius?

James seemed to catch on this, “He’s outside, beating himself up for being an arsehole.” You frowned, “Can you please tell him to come in? I want to see him…” You mumbled, James nodded and fetched Sirius outside of the hospital wing.

After a short while, Sirius emerged, darting his eyes anywhere but onto you. “Love…” You gently called out to him; Sirius bit his lip as he finally took in the sight of you. “Darling, I’m sorry. I was such an arse to you.” He sincerely apologized while you shake your head, “I’m sorry too, I was stressing out too much. I barely even managed to take care of myself and spend time with you guys.”

“Just don’t do it again, darling. We almost lost our minds when you fainted.” James told you as he tucks stray hair behind your ear.

“I won’t do that again; I’ll just copy off of Moony’s work.” She chuckled, glancing at the said boy, she saw the twinkle in his eyes as he smiled and rolled his eyes playfully.

The sun’s rays filtered out in the curtains of the hospital wing, encasing the four in a warm glow as they conversed amongst themselves, putting the events behind them; silently promising to love and care for each other, through thick and thin.

[lewisvinga]

the other woman. | charles leclerc x fem! reader

summary: after his engagement party, y/n realizes that she will always be the other woman..

warnings; mentions of cheating, sex, modern family reference

word count; 1.2 k

note; this song has been stuck in my head

‘born to die’ series masterlist !

f1 masterlist !

Y/n couldn’t believe what she had just read with her own eyes. She reread the invitation again in hopes she had misread it.

You’ve been invited to celebrate the engagement of Charles and Alexandra.

She felt sick to her stomach. She felt like she could just throw up. Lando, a close friend of hers, noticed the look on her face. “What’s wrong? You jealous?” He asks in a teasing tone.

“No!” She exclaims, accidentally saying it in a loud tone. “I-I just don’t feel good.” She lied. She quickly hands him the invite with a smile on her face. “I’m happy for them.”

“‘Bout time Charles proposed to her!” The Brit exclaims with a loud laugh, not noticing how tense she became.

Y/n lets out a laugh at some stupid comment Charles made at the sitcom playing on the TV in front of them. They were both underneath her covers, him in just boxers and her in a plain t-shirt.

After spending hours appreciating each other's bodies and Charles seemingly making love to her, they were still restless. Being restless was just a call to watch sitcoms together.

“C’mon, chérie, you’re telling me that Jay managed to get Gloria?” He asks in a shocked tone, watching a scene of the Modern Family characters.

“C’mon, look at those baby blue eyes!” She exclaims in a teasing tone. He playfully rolls his eyes, pulling her closer. She rested her cheek against his naked chest as a comfortable silence fell upon them while they watched the sitcom.

Y/n opens her mouth to say something when Charles’’ phone began to ring. He checks the caller's I.D. and lets out a quiet string of curses. Alexandra, his girlfriend, was calling. He was quick to get up and get dressed. “I have to go, chérie.” He quietly says.

She sits up in disappointment. A pout adorned her lips as she watched him pull on his pants. “You told me you were going to break up with her last week, Cha.” She mumbles.

“It’s complicated.”

“We’ve been sleeping together for weeks?”

“I’m trying, I promise. It’s just complicated.” Charles lets out a sigh as he pulls his polo over his head. He leans over to press a kiss against Y/n’s forehead. “You’re my girl, you know that. Don’t you?”

She glances up at him with a shy smile and nods. “Yeah, ‘m your girl.” She quietly responds, shifting around on the bed to sit up more comfortably. “Wanna come over this Saturday?”

“Can’t, I have an event with Alexandra and Arthur.” His response made her smile immediately drop and her stomach sink.

“Oh.”

“I’ll see when I’m free, okay?” Charles says with a smile. He leaves one last kiss against her lips before grabbing the rest of his belongings. “See you later, chérie.”

“Bye, Cha.”

“Hello? Earth to Y/n?” Lando exclaims as he waves his hands over her face. She glances up at him, his loud voice pulling her from one of the last memories with Charles. “Whatcha’ thinking about? You zoned out after I asked if you were going.” He asks with a laugh.

“Sorry, I’ve been busy.” Y/n nervously laughs, glancing at the white and gold invitation in her hand. “I mean, Charles is one of my closest friends. It’d be rude not to go. Of course, I’m going.” She responds a bitterness laced in her tone that the Brit fortunately didn’t notice.

“I think a lot of the others will go too! It’ll be so fun! I can’t believe it.” Lando seemed excited to see Charles finally engaged. Very much the opposite to Y/n who kept her eyes to the ground with a feeling of remorse filling her mind.

⋆ ˚｡⋆୨♡୧⋆ ˚｡⋆⋆ ˚｡⋆୨♡୧⋆ ˚｡⋆⋆ ˚｡⋆୨♡୧⋆ ˚｡⋆

Y/n didn't know what she was doing as Lando parked his McLaren at the venue for the celebration. She felt sick as she clutched on the black Chanel Kelly bag Charles had gifted her for her birthday. Even the red mid-length Dior gown she wore was gifted by the Monegasque. All of her nice and luxurious things were gifted by him.

The sick feeling became worse as she entered the venue alongside Lando. The venue was decorated in a way that made it seem more heavenly. A large framed picture of Charles and Alexandra stood right at the entrance next to a white floral arch.

"Charles and Alexandra, the newly engaged couple. Cheers to forever!"

Lando read out loud the cursive writing underneath the picture. "Would you look at that!" He laughs, making fun of his fellow driver. He glances back at Y/n, noting her tense posture. "What's been up with you?" He asks, his tone filled with nothing but concern for his close friend. "Is it a boy?"

"It's complicated," Y/n replies, ignoring his confused stare as she makes her way past the picture. "Let's just greet Charles and Alex and then find seats."

They walked further into the venue where a couple of long decorated dining tables sat. There was a large space in the middle where Charles and Alexandra stood as guests greeted and congratulated them. Y/n visibly gulps as Lando dragged her over to the couple.

"Charles!" Lando loudly exclaims, causing the Ferrari driver to turn around with a wide smile. "Congratulations!" He continues, happily wrapping his arms around him.

Y/n makes eye contact with Alexandra who gives her a sweet smile. Y/n smiles back, ignoring the guilt she felt. "Alex, congratulations." She quietly says, "I must say, that ring is gorgeous."

"Y/n! Thank you." Alexandra replies with a smile. "That bag is beautiful. I have the purple one and I love it!"

"Can never go wrong with a Chanel Kelly, right?" Y/n says with a chuckle as Lando interrupts her to talk to Alexandra. Which meant it left Y/n to face Charles. The Monegasque's eyes widened as he recognized her red Dior dress and Chanel bag.

"Y/n, you look spectacular." He quietly says, pulling her into a hug. Y/n hated how such words made her blush and want to giggle. Her heart skipped a beat as she pulled away, now noticing how he was wearing glasses.

"Glasses? I've always loved them on you."

Charles chuckles, taking a glance at her up and down. That glance only meant one thing, that she would be underneath him after the party. She hated being at his engagement party but still felt such a need to be with him.

"I'll see you later, yeah?"

"Always."

The night dragged on and Y/n kept her gaze on Charles and Alexandra. They seemed happy. Everyone seemed happy for them. Her heart hurt knowing that Charles wasn't hers officially.

She felt the same heartbroken feeling as she watched him quickly change back into his clothes late that night. She still was naked underneath the covers, trying to catch her breath but he was rushing to get back to his fiance.

Y/n lets out a deep sigh as she watches him leave after kissing the top of her head. Water filled her eyes, laying her head against her pillow. She felt stupid for ever thinking that Charles would officially be hers. After all, she was the other woman.

[dumpywrites]

Nomenclature - Kim Taehyung / V

Prompt: “Tell me your name.” “No.”

Prompt request: HERE

Genre/tags: Fluff, strangers to lovers, simp! Taehyung, christmas cliche, some mentions of Yeontan passing (RIP Yeontan 🪽)

Pairing: Taehyung x she/her reader

a/n: I was again inspired by their song, winter ahead's music video is just truly beautiful :') Happy holidays everyone!

“Tell me your name.”

“No.”

“But, why???”

You rolled your eyes, simply walked past the guy who had been pestering you for weeks now. 

Allegedly, his name was Kim Taehyung. Ever since he moved to the town and bumped into you that one time at an art exhibition, this was all he ever did. You found out he was a sculptor, and that a few of his pieces were in fact shown that time. No one was supposed to know about this information because he was using an alias called “Vante”, but your friend Namjoon who was the art curator was a bit nosey. That was also probably how this Taehyung guy found out about your workplace. 

To be quite honest, you didn’t know why someone like him would want to move in a small town. He had looks, money, and supposedly fame too. He looked more like a Los Angeles or Paris kind of person. With those wavy black hair, perfect sculpted by the gods face, you would assume he was a model. But instead here he was, disturbing your cleanup duty. 

“Namjoon said that you’re the same age as me.” 

“Namjoon needs to shut the fuck up sometimes.”

“Wow, easy.” He chuckled, slumping down on the table. “I never ask him for your name though. I want to achieve it myself!” 

You looked around your donut shop and sighed. You still needed to clean the tables and it was already half an hour past closing time. 

“I’ll help.” He stood up with a boxy grin, pointing his finger up. 

“You can help me by going home.” You rolled your eyes. 

“Come on… I have no friends here.” He whined. 

“Namjoon is your friend, no?”

“He’s barely in town.” 

“I’m sure you can make friends elsewhere.” You said as you wiped the counter. 

He hummed, puffing his cheeks. “Why don’t you hire me? I can work part time. I’m mostly free! It seems like a lot of work just by yourself here…” 

“It’s only busy on holidays, usually I can manage it very well. And I do have a staff with me, he’s just currently not here since his dad is sick.”

He chewed the inner part of his cheeks, seemingly in thoughts again. He didn’t say anything but you saw him started cleaning the mess from the tables and throwing them to the trash. 

“So, how long have you been running this place?” 

“It’ll be two full years this December.” You said, your voice slowly going far as you moved to the kitchen. 

The man quickly followed you, clearly still wanted the conversation to keep going. You didn’t even bother to tell him away at this point. Maybe the company wasn’t so bad. 

“That’s cool.” He nodded, looking around the kitchen. “Have you always loved baking?”

“What is this, an interview?” You glared. 

“Maybe?” He giggled. 

“As a kid I used to want to study fashion and tailoring, but money was tight and I ended up just going for a normal and boring degree which is, accountancy.” 

He voiced an “ah” and nodded. “If you have the chance, would you still do it? Pursuing fashion and all…”

“I don’t know.” You sighed, hands full with the dishes. “The shop needs me. She doesn’t have anyone else.” 

“She?” He looked at you in amuse. 

“Yeah, it’s a she.” You held down a chuckle. 

He quietly helped you dry the plates and put them on the rack. 

Finally finished with the chores, you turned off the lights and grabbed your jacket. As you moved to the door, the man just followed you around like a puppy. 

“See ya, Taehyung.” You waved blankly and turned away, walking to the opposite direction. 

“Wait!” He called, making you stop in tracks. “Do you want me to drive you home?”

“My home is just a ten minute walk.” 

“Then I’ll walk you!” He smiled happily. 

“I’m not giving away my address to you.” You folded your arms. 

“Uh… text me when you get back home then?”

“I do not have your number.”

“That’s why we need to change that now.”

“It’s fine.” You turned your back again, the disappointed expression in his face went unseen to you. “Thank you for the offer though.” 

He sighed with a smile, but waved his goodbyes to you anyway. There was always a next day, he thought. 

You didn’t see him again until the next three days. This time he dropped by for a coffee, that you had recently noticed was bought for the sake of buying something, and a chocolate donut along with it. It seemed like this time instead of bugging you, he just sat there, sketching on his small sketch book, looking like he was shooting an advertisement for your cafe. 

He never greeted you nor had he said anything to you and he had been sitting there for four hours now. Your staff had offered to talk to him, but it just did not feel right to disturb him while looked so passionate. The shop wasn’t too busy at the moment anyway. 

“You sure he’s not a creep?” Jungkook, your staff said to you in a whisper. 

“Can’t exactly say he’s not one, but he’s harmless.” You told him. 

“He hasn’t touched his coffee.” 

“I don’t think he even likes coffee.”

“Then why even order one?! What a weirdo…” Jungkook looked at the guy with side eye. 

You heard the entrance door opened and saw a costumer. “Kook, handle the register for me, I’ll talk to the guy.”

Jungkook nodded and you went inside the kitchen. Grabbing an empty cup, you filled it with water before heading to the man sitting prettily at the corner. 

Taehyung was quick to put down his pencil and book as soon as he saw you placing down a glass of water. “Oh, hello!” He gave you a warm smile. 

“You need to drink something.” You told him, pointing at the water with your eyes. 

��Thanks, I already have the coffee though…”

“You haven’t even taken a single sip from it, Taehyung.” You folded your arms, leaning slightly at the table. “Why order one when you don’t like it?”

His eyes beamed. “You noticed???”

“You’ve been here for hours and the cup’s still full.”

“Sorry,” He chuckled and then took a full sip from the glass of water. “I wanted to look cool.” 

You rolled your eyes. “I don’t like coffee either. Not by choice cause I have acid reflux.” You told him. 

“We’re bonding already, I see… miss, uh…?” He eyed you. 

“Nice try.” You turned, walking away from him. You hoped he didn’t see the corners of your lips curled up ever so slightly. 

In the next few days he continued to visit your cafe to seemingly work on his sketch, but he did not get any coffee anymore. Instead, he now ordered some lemon tea alongside the chocolate donut. 

Usually, your shop would be closed on Sundays. You needed some time for yourself in order to prioritize your mental and physical health. But with the Christmas and New Year just around the corner, the place had been extra busy so you decided to open half day on Sundays just until the holiday season was over. 

That was why Taehyung looked so excited when he walked past the cafe and saw the lights on. 

“Welcome to Adore, what— oh.” You dropped your greetings as soon as your eyes met. 

“You’re open on Sundays now?” 

“Only during the holidays.” You simply said. “What can I get you?”

“Cherry jam filled donut?” He asked, pointing at the glass display. 

“Yup. It’s a holiday special.” 

“Interesting.” He hummed. “I’ll get one.”

“Alright. Anything else?”

“Nope. Please do print the bill with the cashier name on it this time…” 

“You’re never gonna give it up, huh?”

“You’re so dramatic. We’re basically friends at this point, why can’t I have your name?” He chuckled. 

You shook your head in disbelief. “If there’s nothing else, that would be two—“

“Boba-eyed boy isn’t here today?” He asked while looking around. 

“Jungkook’s shift doesn’t include Sundays.” You sighed. “Can we please proceed? There’s a line behind you.”

“Right, sorry…” He grinned awkwardly and paid the order. He waved you goodbye in a goofy way before exiting through the door. 

A lady who was a returning costumer was next in line. She smiled at you and spoke, “I’ve never seen him around before.”

“He just moved here around a month or so.” You told her. “What can I get you today?”

“Oh, the usual would be great, darling.” She smiled and you quickly typed matcha latte into the order. “I’d like the holiday hamper too, they look adorable.” 

You immediately went to get the donut set. “I know, right?” You smiled at her. 

You quickly typed and tally her order. After she was done with the payment, she spoke up again. “That boy seems nice… and seems into you.” She snickered. 

“Please don’t mind him.” You smiled at her and sighed. “He just has a lot of time in his hands.”

“Don’t be so negative, sweetheart. It’s almost Christmas.” 

She smiled before waving you goodbye, as you did the same to her. 

After the half day, you decided to spend your free time at the mall, window shopping and some actual light shopping too since you were looking for small gifts to give to your friends. On the way home, you were surprised to see Taehyung in front of your shop. He was tiptoeing in cold, hands in his pocket, trying to take a peek inside the closed store. 

“You’re here!” He waved cheerfully. “I didn’t know you closed early?”

“I only open until three on Sundays.” You said, feeling a little nervous seeing him outside work. “Did you wait for me…?”

“I want to give you this!” He quickly handed you a piece of paper, what appeared to be a ticket. “There’s a small art pop up at the town park next week. I have some of my works there and I was wondering if you want to come and see them with me?” He looked at you with hopeful eyes. 

You looked at the ticket and at him back and forth. A small art exhibition wouldn’t hurt anybody. The lady’s words somehow flashed through your mind. Maybe you needed to loosen it up a bit with the negativity. 

“It won’t clash with your work! It’s on Sun—“

“Sure.”

“Aww, man… I was hoping— wait, did you just say yes???” He widened his eyes at you. It was funny how he was already expecting you to reject him. 

“I mean, I’ll probably go either way so…” You shrugged. “I’m surprised Namjoon hasn’t told me anything about it.”

“I told him not to.” He smirked. 

“Well, that explains it.” You broke into a small smile. 

“Wow.” He gasped. “I just made you smile.”

Your expression dropped when you realized. “You’re crazy.”

He giggled, appeared to be very happy with himself. “Wanna take a stroll?”

Both of you ended up sitting down on a random bench across the river. The cold winter air was making you shiver and Taehyung being Taehyung, he quickly removed his coat and draped it across both of you. So now you were sitting shoulder to shoulder, under the moonlight. 

“Oh, I forgot to tell you, the cherry donut tasted great! You should keep it on the menu.” He showed you his thumbs up. 

“Really? I wasn’t so sure with the jam since I made them from scratch…” You thought. “It’s not overly sweet? I was worried the powdered sugar would be too much.”

“Nope.”

“You sure?”

“Why?” He turned to look at you with a mischievous grin. “You don’t trust my opinion?”

“N-No! I’m just making sure…” You looked away. 

Never knew looking at him in such close range would be this… nerve wracking. You never noticed his beautiful lashes, nor how unique his eyes were, one eye with monolid and the other had double. 

You cleared your throat, backing away slightly. You wondered why it suddenly felt hot even though you were out in the cold winter weather. 

“Is there a reason why I can’t know your name?” He suddenly asked. 

You looked around, fidgeting the hem of your sweater. “You’re too positive, too eager… It scares me.”

You were smiling, but Taehyung didn’t like the way your expression looked. The smile looked like it was laced with sadness behind it. 

“What made you decide to move here?” You asked, changing the topic suddenly. 

He looked like he wanted to protest, but chose not to. “I can’t stand the big city. Always thought I was born to live that life, but turns out I hate the crowd.” 

“Did you not have your alias before?”

“I used to star in movies.” 

“Damn, didn’t know you’re THAT famous.” You pouted your lips, impressed. 

“I’m no Ryan Gosling or anything, my thing was only on small movies or series.” He chuckled. 

“Wait, so you quit just like that???”

“My company kept pushing me on projects that don’t represent me. I was so fed up of putting on a facade in front of everyone, including behind cameras when meeting people in parties and whatnot…” He sighed. “And with my dog passing away recently, I thought a fresh start might be good for me. Cutting off all the toxic branches, you know?”

“I’m so sorry for your loss…” You couldn’t help but to feel sad hearing his story. 

“It’s okay. He’s been sick for so long, so he’s happier now somewhere.” He smiled. “Do you wanna see his pictures?”

You widened your eyes in surprise. “I can?”

“Sure. Just a sec…” 

He took out his phone and showed you a few photos from a dedicated album. Your heart melted upon seeing the images of the adorable Pomeranian. There was a few photos showing the dog wearing costumes, some he took with his friends, and even some selfies of him with the late dog. 

“His name was Yeontan.” He said, fingers still scrolling through the phone, letting you see more pictures. 

“I’m sure he was a good boy…” You gave him a smile. 

“The best.” He smiled back, almost teary eyed. 

Maybe it was the festivities around you, making your heart softened, but you finally agreed to him walking you back home. It was almost awkward to say goodbye as deep down you wanted to hug him. Not only as a farewell, but you wanted to comfort him after hearing his story. You were fighting with your inner morals and self respect, then ended up with a simple fist bump. To be fair, that was more you coded anyway. 

He was very sweet, waiting in front of your house, making sure you entered the door before leaving. You had to shoo him away through the window to make him leave. The sound of his laughter as he waved at you, sounded like a soft Christmas song. 

You did not get to see him until the day before the exhibition. You and Jungkook were busy cleaning up the place, and you could hear your staff’s growl when the sound of the door bell could be heard, thinking it was a costumer coming on closing time.

“Oh, it’s the creep.”

“Hello, boba boy.” Taehyung greeted playfully at the guy. 

“I do not like this guy.” Jungkook pointed to him and looked at you. 

You gave Tae a small smile before patting Jungkook’s shoulder. “I don’t either.” You chuckled. 

“Oh, yeah sure!” The younger guy protested, rolling his eyes. 

“I’ll be done in ten minutes.” You looked at the guy who was waiting next to the door. 

“Take your time.” He smiled at you, but earned another glare from the staff boy. 

After you were done and Jungkook went home, subsequent to giving the waiting man a few death stares. You heard Taehyung huffing and puffing, hands inside his pocket, while you were locking your entrance door. 

“What do you wanna talk about?” You asked him. 

“The exhibition is tomorrow…”

“I know.” You giggled. “And?”

“Hey, I don’t have your phone number to just text this thing, okay?” He said in defense, making you laugh. “I have something to give you though…”

“Oh? You don’t have to!”

You backed away one step from him but that did not stop him from taking out something from his pants pocket. He took out a small maroon colored jewelry box, and your heart was racing out because, to random people this might look like he wanted to propose to you.

He opened the box and showed it to you. A beautiful silver-plated Vivienne Westwood necklace was inside of it, you could notice it right away with the iconic Saturn orb. 

“Taehyung, I can’t accept this! I don’t even have anything to give you…” 

“I just think it’d look great with formal looks, for the exhibition and all…” He looked away shyly. “Just take it, please.”

Your hands were slightly trembling as you reached out for the box. “Thank you. It’s really beautiful.” 

“Uh huh.” He grinned, rocking back and forth playfully. “So uh… can I finally have your phone number? I kinda need to know when to pick you up…” He looked at you with hopeful looks. 

“Sure.” You chuckled. 

“Yes!” He threw his fist up, before quickly recollecting himself and cleared his throat. “Uh, here…” He handed you his phone. 

As you typed your number in, he suddenly stopped you. 

“Don’t type your name in!”

You looked at him with crooked head, wondering if he had lost his mind. The fact you were about to do it too. 

“Just tell me tomorrow, if you want to.” He grinned. 

“Okay…?” You chuckled and handed him back the phone. “What’s this all about?”

“Where’s the fun if I tell you.” You could see his cheeks turning a rosy color despite the low light. 

“Suspicious.” You eyed him, couldn’t help a smile. “But I’m intrigued.”

He flashed you his usual boxy grin, hands inside the pocket as he blew a cold smoke. “I’ll take you home?”

You might not realized it, but Taehyung had slowly but surely began to tear down the barrier you built one by one. Whether it was the constant affection, random jokes, or the small details that he would always noticed, whatever it was, his presence made you felt safe. 

Came next day, you had texted Taehyung when to pick you up at your home after work. The struggle and anxiety of choosing the right outfit really joined late. The whole day you thought you had figured it out, but when you finished putting it all together, you started overthinking. Does Taehyung like woman in skirts? Does he prefer woman with hair up or down? Would it be too much if you wear a little bit of makeup?

The choices landed on a simple black mini dress with a white shirt under it. It was the most formal-but-not-try-hard-but-also-still-cute kinda outfit you had. Your red plaid patterned pumps matched the whole theme of the Vivienne necklace that was gifted to you days prior. 

As you take a look at your reflection in the mirror, your phone rang. Expecting it to be Taehyung, you looked up the caller name revealing your friend Namjoon instead. 

“Hello?”

“You’re coming to the exhibition, right?” 

“I am. Why?”

“Tae’s picking you up?”

“Yeah, I think he’ll be here in fifteen.” 

“I’m assuming things are well between you and him?” There was a hint of sneaky teasing in his tone of voice. 

“Didn’t know you were trying to make something happen between us.” You said as you looked at the mirror, applying lipgloss. 

“Wasn’t suppose to, I don’t think that was his initial intention either.” The guy chuckled from the other line. “But I don’t know man… I just think it’s good to see you with someone again, no? You’ve been through so much and I think Taehyung is a good person.”

“Let’s not get ahead of ourselves here, we don’t even know if he’s even thinking that way.” 

“Well, I know.” He emphasized. “Dude wouldn’t even make a move without my permission.”

You broke into a smile. “I didn’t know you’re that protective of me.”

“Hey, ever since what happened with that sick bastard, you had been shutting yourself down. You kept yourself busy with work, you don’t even socialize that much anymore…” He sighed. “And I know you are scared. I know you’re afraid of people that show you so much interest so fast, people who are all sunshine and happiness. But don’t you think it’s about time you try to trust again?”

“I don’t know Joon… to be honest with you, I feel safe with him. He seems like he has the purest intention, and even if he doesn’t even think about this romantically, I still want a friend like him. But…” You paused. “That’s why it’s even scarier. He’s broken all the walls I’ve built. If he hurt me, I’ll be back to ground zero again.” 

“It’s always worth the risk.” Your friend said sternly, assuring you. “And don’t worry, I’ll personally punch him in his goddamn top five most handsome men face if he ever tries to hurt you.” 

You laughed. “Thank you, Joon.” 

“Go get dolled up. I want jaws on the floor when you arrive.” 

“That’s not gonna happen, but whatever.” You laughed again. “See ya.”

“See you, lover girl.”

You had your fair share of Christmas movies. You were also never much of a romantic person yourself, so the Christmas movies dreamy golden retriever boy coming to sweep you off your feet cliche was never your cup of tea. But never say never, people said. 

The sleek back hair, the preppy white button up, the black suit. Who were you kidding, did this person steal his outfit from a movie set or something? You were sure you were getting picked up by a friend, not the prince himself. 

“Hi.” He said, a bit breathless. 

“Hi there.” You said bashfully. “You look great.” 

“Don’t steal my line.” He laughed, pulling his collar slightly. “Oh shit, I forgot.” 

“What is it?”

You saw the man quickly ran to his car and picked up something from the back seat. 

Lord saves us all. He came back with a bouquet. 

“Oh my god.” You rolled your eyes, laughing. “You can’t keep doing this!”

“It’s too much, is it?” He eyed you with a smirk. 

“I like them though.” You smiled as he handed you the flowers. “Although I must admit, red rose is a bit overrated.” 

“It matches your shoes though.” He pointed out. 

“I guess you’re right.” You giggled. “Wait just a sec, I’ll vase them.”You came back a few minutes later after quickly finding a jar for the roses. “Ready?”

“After you.” He playfully said. 

You had the opportunity to bond over music taste through the car ride. You shared your playlist and so did he. You tried your best to not sneak in looks but you caught him doing the same thing a few times, in which both of you just laughed it off. 

“Wow, she’s finally out and about, folks!” Namjoon greeted you as soon as both of you were in sight. 

“I do go out sometimes, you’re exaggerating.” You slapped your friend’s arm jokingly. 

“Buying groceries doesn’t count.” 

You rolled your eyes. “Let’s just leave this guy.”

Taehyung laughed. “Wasn’t planning on letting him trail us anyway.”

“You guys are disgusting. I am busy too, excuse you.” Namjoon shook his head playfully. “Enjoy the show, don’t forget to see the main piece!” He eyed Taehyung, wiggling his eyebrows. 

“We get it. Now shoo.” Taehyung gestured with his hand at the tall guy. Namjoon laughed once again before leaving the two of you. “Shall we?” He asked, gesturing his arm in hopes you would link yours over. 

You nodded and happily obliged. 

He cleared his throat as both of you start walking. “I’m supposed to be your tour guide and I rehearsed my whole opening speech, but now I’m nervous as hell with you being this close to me.”

Your cheeks flushed and you giggled. “It’s okay, let’s just both be visitors today.”

“Alright…” He breathed out. “You can ask questions if you’d like. Not everything here is mine but I know a thing or two about them too.”

Soon your eyes landed on a grayscale painting with random splashes of shapes decorating it. You let go your hand from his arm, stepping closer to the artwork, admiring it from close range. The amount of small details made up for the lack of vibrant colors, the visible brush strokes and different textures made it look very unreal to you. 

“Caught your eye?”

“It must took a lot of time and effort doing all the different textures and details.”

“Yeah, it took me months. Made this while thinking about the last time I fell in love.” He smiled at you. 

You were taken aback. Your eyes went down to the small signature done by the man himself. “One would’ve think being in love involves more bright colors…”

“It was more complicated than that.” He stepped closer and stood next to you, eyes on the painting as well. “There was a mix of emotions in there. Happiness, sadness, the in betweens… But all of that memories belong to my past, hence the gray palette.” 

You were debating if you should ask more about the said past.

“You could ask, you know. If you’re curious…” He said, as if he could read your mind. “It’s okay, we ended on good terms. She just fell out of love. I guess I just bore her.”

“That’s awful. How could someone find you boring?” 

You froze when you realized what you had just said. 

The man chuckled as soon as he heard. “Thank you for the compliment.” 

You turned away, blushing. “Let’s move on.” You walked ahead. 

He followed your pace and walked aside you. “What about you? What’s your past like? If you don’t mind me asking…”

“I don’t really have that much experience.” You said with eyes still roaming the area. “Namjoon didn’t tell you anything?”

“He loves to gossip but he also cares about you very much, so no.” 

You smiled and puffed a sigh. “It might not sound like that much of a big deal, but the last person I dated lovebombed me at the lowest point of my life. I was dealing with the loss of my grandma, moving back to this town to continue her bakery, and he came to me just like that only to leave me for another woman like I was nothing.”

“Hey, that is a big deal what are you even talking about.” He stopped and looked at you, seemingly a bit pissed too after hearing your story. 

“I try not to let it get to me anymore, I guess.” You pulled the hem of his sleeves, signaling him to continue walking further. “It’s getting better now, thank you.”

“Thank you?” He eyed you.

“Yeah, thank you.” You smiled. 

He chose not to question it and just continue the tour with a big grin decorating his face. The two of you continued the tour before Taehyung suddenly stopped you from making a turn to the last room to see. 

“Uh, before you go I need to tell you something… I want you to know that this didn’t happen on purpose.” He plastered a nervous smile. 

“What are you talking about?”

“The inspiration didn’t quite reach me until the very last few days… I was supposed to sculpt a whole different thing, but I ended up with a bust.” 

“Oh? Then I can’t wait to see—“

“Wait,” He grabbed your wrist, stopping you. “I want to let you know that I made this because it’s all that’s been occupying my mind the past few weeks and I don’t mean it in a creepy way… in case you’re offended.” He chuckled nervously again. 

“Why would I get offended?” You looked at him suspiciously. 

He took a deep breath and breathed out heavily. “Let’s go see it.” 

Once you were inside, the first thing that caught your eye was a huge bust sculpture facing back. There was somewhat of a drip effect coming from the neck downwards, huge mess of concrete pooling at the bottom, creating the illusion of an unfinished raw work. From the looks of it, the statue seemed to be of a woman, but you couldn’t judge for sure. As you stepped closer, circling to get a better view, Taehyung quietly followed you from behind. 

You began to notice the ear, the side profile and how oddly familiar looking it was. Once you finally see the full front view, it all made sense to you. 

The sculpture was in fact made to look like you. It had your eyes, nose, lips, everything. It was you, with your hair up like how you would during work hours. 

“T-Tae… is this…”

“Yeah.” He rubbed the back of his neck, looking at you with reddened cheeks. “What do you think?”

You were still in awe, speechless of seeing a literal art piece of yourself, most importantly, presented to the public eye. You weren’t sure if screaming or crying would be the appropriate way to react. 

Seeing you stunned silent, Taehyung began to panic a little. “It’s creepy, isn’t it? I’m sorry…”

“No!” You quickly voiced out. “It’s just… I’m just loss of words. I can’t exactly believe what I see.” 

“I can’t either.” He said, looking uneasy still. “It just happened out of nowhere. I only realized when I was already halfway done with your nose.”

“I…” You took a good look at the piece again, before continuing. “It’s really beautiful. I wasn’t even sure it’s me until I see the full view.”

“Well, that’s how you look in my eyes.” He giggled. 

You blushed. Clearly you didn’t have any comeback ready in you for this. 

“If you look closely, this piece doesn’t have a name yet.” 

You looked down to see the name plate empty, as told. Then something just connected in your head. This cheeky smart bastard. 

“Wanna name it?” He looked at you with a big contagious smile on his lips. 

You nodded, mirroring the smile he had on. Instead of immediately saying your name, you stepped closer and hugged him, in which he instantly returned, resting his head on top of yours. In his embrace you looked up and finally told him your name. 

The expression he had was mixture of joy and surprise. Both of you bursted into laughter in unison. For a moment, the world seemed to have stopped just for you. You even forgot the existence of other visitors wandering around. It was just you and him. 

Taehyung took out something from his side pocket, a black marker, which he wiggled playfully in front of you. He looked left and right, making sure no one would notice, before he quickly wrote something on the golden plate.

“What if someone sees you?!” You whispered. 

“Don’t worry, Namjoon already knows.” 

He chuckled and took your hand in his, intertwining your fingers together as he led you through the exit. You didn’t get to see exactly what he wrote on the plate, safe to assume it was probably just your name. 

Little did you know, Namjoon had reached the room, examining the new named sculpture, with the word “Love” now scribbled on top of its name plate. He couldn’t help but to be happy for his dear friends. 

Thank you for reading! 🎨

[verstappentime]

max revealed this week that he was definitely driving with brain damage after his silverstone crash and struggled to see during his win at the U.S. grand prix that year (3 months later). obviously this yields hurt/comfort maxiel. daniel isn't too happy about all of this. max's poor head hurts.

→ →→ it’s gp who finds daniel, intercepting him as he comes out of his driver’s room. “max needs you, mate,” he says, calm but serious. maybe a little exasperated.

of course daniel goes.

gp presses a water bottle, mixed with some kind of blue powder, into his hand. “he needs to drink this. and tell him we’re having a look at his visor, okay?”

daniel nods, even though that means nothing to him.

he finds max on the floor with all the lights off, almost tripping over him. “baby,” he says, heart already in his throat. “whatcha doing down there?”

max doesn’t say anything. daniel goes for the light switch; max whines straight away, breathing harshly through his nose. “leave them off.” it sounds like he’s gritting his teeth.

fuck. daniel crouches down beside him. “maxy? is it a migraine?” max is all balled up, his forehead against his knees, navy kit making it hard to see him in the dark. daniel sets a hand on the back of his neck – he’s overwarm and still sticky with champagne. he looked okay, after the race. he looked fine. he hasn’t had a migraine in months, after a string of them following silverstone.

max still isn’t talking. daniel’s heart is thumping in his chest. he tries, “gp says they’re looking at your visor?”

max reaches around blindly, finding his phone and holding it out to daniel. “text him and tell him not to do that. say i’m fine.”

“what?”

max waves the phone at him. “tell him good win, thank you, whatever, and there’s no need, and i’m fine. daniel, please text him.”

“max. you’re not–”

“daniel.” max presses the heels of his palms into his eyes. “fuck. just say it. i don’t want anyone staying late.”

“then you’ll tell me what’s wrong?” daniel’s worried enough to resort to bartering.

“yes. sure. whatever.”

it’s enough for daniel to tap out the text, trying to mimic the punctuation max would use. “okay. talk.” max reaches out, and daniel doesn’t realize what he wants until he starts patting the back of daniel’s hand. he links their fingers, squeezing. when max doesn’t start right away, he prompts, “can you tell me why gp is worried about your helmet?”

“on the track. i couldn’t. like. see.” max squeezes his hand harder. “fuck, that hurts.”

“you– what? you couldn’t see what?”

“anything?” max makes a miserable noise. “like, everything was– blurry? is that what you say? and i was trying to focus, it was hurting my head. but i’ll sit here for a while and it’ll be fine. just. probably gp didn’t want to leave me on the floor alone.”

“you– max, what?” daniel worried about this for weeks, after silverstone. he read every pamphlet on what he was supposed to watch for, which symptoms meant max needed to go back to the hospital. watched every meal to make sure max wasn’t nauseous, made him rate every headache out of 10. “you were driving, and you couldn’t see?”

“i was thinking maybe i would stop, but i needed to win this one, and i could, so i did.”

“you were thinking maybe you would stop.” max verstappen was going to pull out of a race. fuckfuckfuck. “max, that really isn’t good. it’s– it didn’t hurt at first? not like a migraine?” they’d explained that in the pamphlet. tunnel vision was a migraine; blurred vision was not.

max gives a little shake of his head.

“that’s. they told us to watch for that, do you remember?” daniel lets go of max’s hand, gripping him at both arms. he wants to fucking shake him, but he’s too afraid of hurting him. “it’s. like. a sign of post concussion syndrome. fuck, max, has this happened before?"

“sometimes in the sim,” max says. “whenever i’m looking at a screen for a long time. i don’t know. it goes away. it’s not– i’m not sick or something.”

daniel wishes he had the fucking pamphlet. “max, it’s been three months since your crash. you shouldn’t be driving, you shouldn’t have been driving, i knew it was worse than you were letting on—”

“daniel, you’re hurting me.” max’s voice shrinking. daniel hadn’t noticed how tight his grip had become.

“fuck. sorry. sorry.” daniel lets go, soothing his hands up max’s arms. “can we go to medical? please?”

“no,” max says emphatically.

“max, i think something’s really wrong.” he thinks of max, woozy on the track, not knowing someone’s coming up on his side. bang. smoke.

“i hit my fucking head at 51G. that is what’s wrong. it will get better.”

max is alive and right in front of him, but he’s thinking of jules, in a coma all those months. “you should have told me. you can’t fuck around with this.” god, he sounds mean, but it’s just that he can feel his pulse up to his ears and he needs max to be alright.

“i just want to go home. it hurts so much, daniel.” max sounds so tired. it’s enough to snap him back. because max actually needs him right now, not in some imaginary future disaster world.

“okay. yeah. i’m sorry, baby. we’ll go home.” he’s giving up too easily, but. max never says anything hurts, unless it’s a papercut or something stupid he can pester daniel about for days. he tries to do some of michael’s stupid box breathing technique. four in. four out. okay. take care of max, idiot.

max lets himself be helped up and settled into a chair. he covers his eyes as daniel turns the lights on. they’ve both long missed their debriefs; daniel doesn’t bother looking at his phone. he assumes someone explained for him somehow.

“there’s medicine in my bag, the headache stuff,” max mumbles.

daniel’s hands feel clumsy as he fishes it the bottle out and opens it, taking out two tablets and pressing them into max’s clammy palm. he hands him the blue concoction gp gave him. “drink that, too, hey?” they’d done this so many times back in july. he’d really thought it was over.

daniel fishes through the bag some more, coming up with max’s sunglasses. max puts them on, looking ridiculous as daniel goes around collecting his stuff. he nurses the blue thing quietly, hugging his backpack to his chest when daniel hands it to him. the only other time daniel’s seen max this quiet was after silverstone, stony-faced and wrung out when they’d finally arrived back to the hotel and max had been cleared to go to sleep.

“okay, baby, i think we have everything,” he says quietly, anxiety starting to fade into guilt. he’s not going to convince max to stay out of the car, and they both know that. if max can survive the next month and a half, he’ll win the world championship and then they can fucking. breathe. daniel will make him rest if he has to.

max lets himself be guided to the car with a gentle hand on the small of his back. daniel does his seatbelt for him like he’s a child. he doesn’t even know why. “are we fighting?” max asks, still hugging his backpack.

“no. no? i don't think so. we can talk later. let’s just. you need a shower and sleep.”

“you think gp got my trophy?”

“i’m sure he did, max.” daniel can’t help the tiniest smile. god, this fucking kid.

[morganski-19]

The One with the Child

Robin and Nancy walk into the café after a long day of work. Stopping when they see Jonathan sitting on the couch reading a book with a toddler sitting next to him, playing with a toy. They share a confused look before walking around the couch.

“Hey Jon,” Nancy leads.

Jonathan looks up from his book. “Oh, hey guys. How was work?”

“Uh, fine,” Nancy says, still confused. “Just one, tiny, quick question.”

“Whose child is that?” Robin points at the toddler looking up at them with big eyes.

“Oh, right, this is Argyle’s niece, Stella. He’s in the bathroom, so I’m watching her for a minute.”

Robin flops on the armchair. “Oh, thank God. I thought that was just a random kid.”

Jonathan gives her a weird look. “Did you think I just stole a child? What gave you the impression that I would do that?”

Robin shrugs. “Someone could have just left the child here. You don’t know. That happens. You would be surprised how many times Steve has had to stay afterschool to sit with a kid whose parent forgot to come pick them up.”

“To be fair, my mom did that a few times when I was a kid.” Nancy pulls one of the other chairs closer. “Only a few times though.”

“My mom did that too. Happens when you’re a single mom.”

Argyle comes back from the bathroom, hair braided down his back. “Hey dudes. You meet Stella?” He sits down on the couch, Stella grabbing his arm and hiding behind it. “She’s a bit shy.”

“Robin thought I stole her.”

Robin makes a high-pitched noise. “I did not. I thought you were picked by a lazy parent to be entrusted with their child. That is far different than stealing.”

“Still doesn’t make it any better.”

Robin rolls her eyes, getting up to go order a coffee at the bar.

“Which sister is Stella’s mom?” Nancy asks, trying to change the conversation.

Argyle tries to get Stella to loosen her grip on his arm but fails. “Julia. She has a job interview in the city today so I’m watching her.”

“And you brought her here?” Robin sits back down with her coffee.

“Hey, this is a family friendly establishment until seven and by then she will be back with her mom. She should be done soon to come pick her up.”

Eddie walks into the café, waving as he orders a coffee at the bar. Doing a double take when he sits down, eyes wide.

“I know I’ve only known you guys for like a year but none of you had a secret kid, right?”

“No, this is my sister’s kid. I’m watching her for a few hours.”

Eddie relaxes in his seat. “Oh, thank God. I could not have dealt with that twice in one week.”

Nancy perks up. “Twice?”

“Yeah, remember my buddy Jeff from high school. Apparently, him and his girl are expecting. Sent me into a whole crisis.”

“Oh, that’s why you were cleaning your room a few days ago.”

“I’m offended that’s why you think I was cleaning, but you’re correct.”

“Why were you having a crisis?” Robin asks over her coffee. “It’s not like we’re not at an age where people we know start having kids.”

Eddie makes a large gesture. “That’s why I was having a crisis. It was the first one of my friends that is taking that next step in life. While I’m still stuck between two jobs, not in a relationship, and a giant fucking mess. Sorry,” he apologizes to Argyle.

“She’s two, she doesn’t know what that word means,” Argyle assures.

Steve comes into the café and sits on the chair next to Eddie. Covering his face in his hands. “If I see another first grader, it’ll be too soon.”

“Bad day.” Robin gives him a sympathetic look.

Steve nods. “Three kids had to be sent to the nurse because they were sick. Three, like visibly sick. They shouldn’t have even been sent in at all. And then the rest were just on edge and didn’t want to settle down after recess. And.” He finally spots Stella on the couch. “One of your sister’s kids?”

Argyle nods. “Yeah. Her mom should be here soon, so don’t worry.”

“I said first graders for a reason. They are monsters. What’s her name?”

“Stella. Do you want to say hi?” he asks her. Stella gives Steve a small wave.

Steve melts a little bit. “You have just made my whole day, Stella.”

A woman who looks a little like Argyle walks into the café. Argyle notices her and stands, picking up Stella from the couch. “Hey, Jules. How was the interview?”

“Pretty good. Thanks for watching her again, I appreciate it.” She takes Stella out of Argyle’s arms. “Did you have a good time with Uncle Argyle?” Stella nods into her mother’s shoulder. “Hope she wasn’t too much trouble.”

Argyle shakes his head. “Not at all. Right Jon?”

“Yeah, not at all.”

Julia nods, finally realizing the rest of the group.

“Oh right, Julie, these are my friends. You’ve met some of them. Dudes, this is my sister Julia.”

The group gives a mix of greetings before going back to separate conversations. Julia says hello back before Argyle walks her out of the café.

“It was seriously no trouble watching her, it was nice to see her. And you.”

“I know. Wish I could stay more, but we got to get back.”

“If you need a place to stay, you can chill at our place. I’ll take the couch so you can have a bed.”

Julia shakes her head. “That sweet but I didn’t pack an overnight bag. If we leave now, we might make it before the next rush hour. I wouldn’t want to inconvenience you and Jon.”

“Nonsense. You know you’re always welcome at our place.”

“When are you two finally going to cut the crap and get together already. The whole family’s been waiting for it.”

Argyle groans. “Tell me there’s not a betting pool.”

“You already know the answer to that.”

“Jesus. I’m not sure we even ever will. He’s like the first best friend I’ve ever had, I don’t want to lose him over some stupid feelings.”

Stella coos, grabbing at her mom’s hair. “We should go before she starts getting fussy. For what it’s worth, I don’t think you will. You might not believe me, but there’s more hope than you think there is. From an outsider’s perspective.”

“So, I can blame you when everything goes up in flames. Nice.” Julie gently slaps his arm. “Call me when you get back, alright.”

“I will. Wave goodbye to Uncle Argyle, Stella.”

“Bye, bye,” Steve whispers with a small wave.

Argyle smiles. “Bye, Stella. Nice seeing you both.”

They walk down the street to where Julia parked as Argyle returns to the café.

Tag list (let me know if you want to be added or taken off) @slowandsteddie, @annieofhearts, @cacdyke, @ubpd, @captain--low, @thespaceantwhowrites, @goodolefashionedloverboi, @anne-bennett-cosplayer, @lunaticparisianlady, @apomaro-mellow, @dolphincliffs, @dragonmama76, @maggiebug417, @stevesbipanic, @fearieshadow, @eightpackdiaz, @au79burger @bookworm0690 , @practicallybegging, @potato-of-the-lord, @autumncrocusandladybug, @estrellami-1

[dearharriet]

Lover's rock by TV girl and Fred please!! Congrats on 150!!

thank you for the request lovely! i only realized after writing that the twins are born in spring, but we can pretend they’re summer babies for my sake ;( (wc: 1.4K)

The twins’ shared apartment is wearing an unusual intimacy tonight, shadowy and warm, with every window open to let the summer breeze drift through. Your friends are in the kitchen, which is a lovely thing to walk in on.

You’re just grabbing another coke to smuggle back to Fred's room, but you linger for a moment by the fridge. It’s the week of the twins' birthday, which will call for riotous celebration later, but for now they both swear they only want a small gathering of all their best mates. Angelina, Lee, Alicia, Katie, Oliver, and you.

Pressing the cool can to your flushed cheeks, you watch them all laugh, a bit faint with how much you want to remember this moment. It’s a testament to your awful crush on Fred that you pull yourself away at all, slinking down the hall into his room again.

“There you are,” says the man himself, bent over his old record machine. “Thought the girls might’ve persuaded you to abandon me.”

“Almost,” you tell him truly. “It’s hard to get us all together like this anymore.”

“It’ll just be a second,” Fred assures you, sifting through stacks of warped vinyls. “I know it’s in here somewhere.”

You take the moment of distraction to lay yourself out atop his cool bedspread, no doubt quilted by his mother.

“No rush.”

Your change of position takes Fred’s attention, and when he finds you, he can only blink. You stare back at him, feeling shy but not quite willing to show it.

“What?”

Fred shakes his head. “Nothing.”

You watch him resume his task, enjoying the way his shoulders fill out the casual tee he’s donned. All of you have known each other for so long, and yet you can’t quite pinpoint when Fred started looking so mature. It’s like it happened under your nose or overnight, a snap of a change just as you blinked your eyes.

“You’re staring.” Fred looks up to catch you, and you can only press your lips together.

“So?”

Neither you nor Fred seem to understand if this is a defense or an admittance, but the air in the room feels all the hotter for it. His eyes flash with a mischievous impulse you’ve seen a thousand times, and you expect some witty comeback. Instead, he just holds up a flimsy yellow square for you to see.

“Found it.”

Just like that, the moment diffuses, your aching chest deflating. You’re not sure if you’re relieved or disappointed.

“Finally,” you sigh. “Put it on, will you?”

He does, gently setting it into its cradle and starting the spin. By the time the song begins, he’s halfway onto the bed.

“Alright, if you don’t like it, you’re not allowed to tell me. It’s my birthday.”

“I like it already.”

Fred sprawls out on his back beside you, a sheen of sweat on his forehead. You can feel the heat radiating off of him in waves. He shoots a smile your way, boyish and sly. “That’s my girl.”

You try not to read too far into that—Fred says it all the time, and that’s just Fred—but it’s hard with the heat and the soft music. When it comes to feigning indifference, you’re something of a professional, except right now you’re hardly maintaining a regular color.

“I got you something really good for your gift,” you choke, desperate to change the subject.

“Did you, now?” Fred is still looking at you strangely, giddy like he’s waiting for a prank to pan out. Your heart is tumbling in your chest.

“Mhm. I think you’re really gonna like it.”

“I’m sure,” he agrees, his tone dulcet. “I’d like anything you gave me.”

“Oh, come off it,” you scoff breathlessly, cracking like an egg under his attention. Fred’s grin spreads wider, his eyes melting impossibly softer.

“What? I can’t say that?”

You shake your head, truly sick of his teasing.

“No. You’re being a tosser.” Fred’s disbelief rings out of him in a belly laugh. It’s stupid to let it hurt your feelings, but your reactions to Fred have never quite been rational.

“I’m complimenting you, pretty girl.”

The nickname sends a shock of heat through you, equal parts excitement and fury. “You’re making fun.”

“No,” Fred says, and though he’s still wearing a ghost of a smile, his voice is sharp and stern. You can’t bear to look at him, painfully aware of the fact that he’s peering right into the soft center you’ve been harboring for years.

The record plays like a drama now, some sort of cruel irony in its sweeping romanticism singing behind the end of a decade-long friendship.

“I can see you creating a tragedy in your head over there.”

Bracing yourself, you chance a look at Fred. He’s pushed onto one elbow, watching you carefully, knowingly.

“Am not,” you insist.

In response, he only chuckles lightly, like it’s fine that you are and it’s fine that you’re lying about it.

“I don’t play with feelings,” Fred says, “you know that. If I call you pretty, it’s ’cause you are.”

Thinking that can’t possibly be true, you argue, “You play with my feelings all the time.”

“Or you misunderstand me,” he implies, raising his brows, “all the time.”

You blink at him, unsure what to think of that. If Fred liked you, he’s not the type to let it go unsaid. You would know. Surely you would know. Unless, of course, you’ve been a complete fool.

“Really?”

Fred nods, exasperated fondness painted over his features. “Really.”

Covering your face with your hands, you ask, “Why didn’t you tell me?”

“Darling, trust me, I tried. You were too cussed to believe me.”

It’s all too much, you can’t believe your own ignorance.

“Fred,” you whine, face flushed for every reason but the heat. He takes your wrists, encouraging your hands down.

“Look, you know now,” he assures you, though he’s still much too amused for your taste, “so you don’t have to worry.”

Your tumultuous heart seems to settle, albeit aching like it’s been mauled by a bear.

“Will you ever forgive me?”

Fred squeezes your wrists as he smiles, and you can’t believe you hadn’t seen it before—the heat in his gaze, the rapt attention. Looking back through years of hazy memories, you realize you can’t pinpoint the beginning of that behavior from him, if there ever was one. Fred has always been Fred, horribly flirty and without boundaries, and you chose to assume he wasn’t serious.

“I’ll forgive you,” he says, “on one condition.”

The pitter-patter of your heart picks up again.

“Yes?”

Leaning close, Fred says, “you have to give me a birthday kiss.”

Your lips twitch with an unbidden smile. “You’re horrible.”

“I’m horrible?” Fred asks, stilling his descent on you. “You won’t do it then?”

“I’ll do it.” As you say so, your hands skirt up Fred’s arms and shoulders to weave into his hair, pulling him closer. “But not because I want to.”

“No,” he breathes, and your senses gather him and only him, “of course not.”

Your lips touch gently, just brushing and feeling against one another. You’re trying very hard not to smile, but it becomes a laborious task when Fred inches deeper, taking your bottom lip between his. After a moment, though, he pulls back.

“One sec,” he says, and slides off the bed.

You watch him move to the record player, which is spinning around the end of the vinyl. You hadn’t even realized it stopped.

“Freddie.”

Both your and Fred’s attention snaps to the door, locking on a very smug looking George. Having no other reference for how you might appear, you look to Fred, and it’s not promising. His lips are smudged pink from your lipstick, and his hair is a mess in the back. It would take an idiot not to know what you two were doing.

Still, George doesn’t object, he just inflates his words with enough self-satisfaction to kill.

“Cake and presents soon. Try to wrap up whatever you’re doing in here.”

Just like that, he’s gone.

Seemingly unfazed, Fred flips the vinyl in his hands and starts it again.

“Shouldn’t we go?” you ask.

Crawling back up the bed, Fred settles into your space again, much closer than before.

“Not yet. Let’s give the b-side a listen.”

+

thank you for reading! xx

masterlist

join the celebration!

[craziness2345]

Chapter 4

So I suck lol I'm sorry this one took so long school and this mixed does not go well at times. I hope you like this chapter and i promise i will bring next chapter out by next week i'm going on vacation and the drive is 16 hours so i'll have time to work on this! let me know how you guys like this chapter please!

_________________________________________________________

It was weird how our dynamic changed within a week. I haven't had a single nightmare since i started staying with Natasha and wanda it still confuses me why they've been so adamant on me staying with them each night there was a few nights in the beginning of the week where i tried to sleep in my own room feeling bad for bothering them but each time they’d just go straight in my roo to lay with me instead.

I gave up after that and kinda just got used to it i liked not having the nightmares and for once in my life since i was younger i felt safe and protected it was nice having that feeling. It also caused us to get a lot closer. I felt like I was always with them. Now one of us was with the other or together all at the same time. 

But that changed when wanda and natasha had to go on a mission but the worst part about this mission was it was no contact nor was there a set day for them to come back either. It was both nerve wracking and I hated how it made me feel knowing I shouldn't be feeling this way. Sighing to myself i see Natasha and wanda head on over to me dressed in there undercover clothes “ Will you be okay? Wanda asks worriedly.

I nod “ Don’t worry i’m a big girl “ I comment reassuringly even though deep down i know i’m struggling i just show  a happy face” be careful please” I say softly worry evident on my face. Natasha smirks “ It’ll be wanda and i and captain america everything will be fine” Natasha says. I roll my eyes “ Okay “ I laugh giving them each a hug “ But seriously i want my two best friends to make sure to be safe” I say not noticing the small frown on the two red heads faces when i had said best friend. By the time I looked up they were back to smiling at me. “ So have a safe trip and be back in time” I say as they nod giving me one last hug before they head out onto the quinjet steve following not long after he gets out of the elevator as he waves at me before leaving. 

I sigh and slouch in my couch “ so you have a thing for my sestra and her girlfriend L/N Y/N “ I jump off the couch meeting yelena's eyes as mine widen “ Wait what!?” I exclaim my eyes bulging as Kate walks in giggling “ Yelena leave her alone” She says sitting on the couch.

“ What? I’m just stating a fact i mean she gets all googly eyed on them” Yelena says as my cheeks redden “ She nots wrong Y/N and you’re even acting all depressed “ kate point out softly causing me to slouch in the couch again my face beat red. I let a loud scoff pass my lips “ I am not acting depressed” I say dismissively. I decide to sit up as Kate snorts “ Okay Y/N “ She says softly. 

I hear yelena snicker “ You’re such a love sick puppy” she comments” You know Y/N L/N you should well tell them” She shrugs as i give her a dirty look “ there’s Nothing to say to them” I snap as yelena raises an eye “ тупица”  ( Dumbass) I give her a dirty look “ I gotta go “ I grumble annoyed as i stand up and leave kate and yelena teasing me as i leave.

I decide to head into the elevator and go up getting off i head straight to furys office barging in as he looks up instantly” Do no- Oh Y/N what is it” He calms instantly as i sit in the chair across from him shrugging” Nothing just wanted to hang with the old man” I tease. 

He gives me an unamused look” I’m not old” HE corrects causing me to smirk “ Oh yeah yeah that’s what old people say” I tease as he gives me another look rolling his eyes he goes back to his paperwork “ what do you actually want ? “ He asks as I go serious. “ I wanted to know if you have any leads on him” I say, sitting straighter, fur humming and pulling out a folder. 

“ Honestly nothing after he left the hospital went dark” he says. I frown at grabbing the folder looking at the medical records. I scan over all the people looking at the picture. My heart was aching at what I was seeing. I close it, the guilt hitting me. 

“ Stop, I know that face, it was an accident. “ HE tries to reassure me as I look away hiding my emotions. “ Right,” I mumble, not believing a word he says, “ Just let me know if you find anything else,” I say standing up.

Fury sighs watching me leave “ You know i will” He says gently a tone he only ever uses for me as i leave his room . The image of my brother still embedded in my skull as I walk down the hall the memories of that night and his and my fathers screams of pain I shut my eyes taking a deep breath to control that memory before heading out needing a coffee.

I head down a street once I leave the avengers tower heading to a small coffee shop. I head inside placing an order for a caramel mocha. Thanking the barista, I sat down at a booth to stare out at all the people walking down the streets. I let my mind wander worried about Natasha and Wanda. I wonder how long they will be gone for. Knowing how no communication missions  go, it could be a few days or weeks. I shudder at hating this already.

I curse myself silently hating how i feel knowing it wasn’t right when they were together as well. I sigh to myself drinking my coffee before doing a double take standing up. I head out of the coffee shop looking through the crowded streets in a hurry. I know he was somewhere. I swear I saw him cursing when I didn't see him. I rubbed my temples, deciding to head back as I thought back to the figure I saw across the street. 

He looked like Jake. I swear that's who I saw the burnt side of his face but maybe I was hallucinating? Yeah I had to be there's no way that was him. I started walking back to the tower, my thoughts jumbled up by what I thought I saw.

______________________________________________________

The two weeks go by as I start to slowly struggle to sleep feeling like someone was watching at times I swore I saw my brother but I try to put that thought at the back of my mind since I've been struggling to sleep. It made more sense. It was my exhaustion fucking with me.

We still had no word from Natasha and Wanda. I did get some words out of fury, finding out that they might be coming back soon from the mission. That did get me a bit more upbeat. I start heading back to the tower as it starts to pour down tremendously. Cursing, I toss my coffee in a nearby trash can as I decide to take a short cut and go pull my hood up over my head. 

As I walk down the alley I feel some type of sharp pain in my shoulder groaning. I move my hand pulling it out of my shoulder. I realized it was what looked to be a tranquilizer dart. Unsure what the liquid was, I started to feel woozy moving my head. I blink seeing a figure walking down with a gun that I assume had the dart in it. I try to furrow my eyes moving to use my invisibility but struggle to.

The dark figure walks closer humming his face completely covered” sorry but you’re powers ain't gonna work i gave you a nice dose that stuns you're powers” The deep distorted voice says stumbling back words i curse before stumbling to run away the figure chuckles deeply “ Who i love a good game of cat and mouse” he starts following me slowly as i pass down another alley stumbling some more i blearily pull out my phone hitting the emergency button that sends to the tower hoping they can get to me in time. 

Everything starts to blur as i end up hitting a dead end i curse to myself turning around to make another run for it i freeze seeing him standing there “ i think this is the end of the game and the line” He says “ that tranquilizer should be doing it’s job by now “ He says coming closer as i start to slide down the wall.

“ Your friends won’t be saving you either they are a little preoccupied with a bomb in downtown “ He chuckles as i completely black out the last thing i remember his him picking me up before everything goes dark.

[donationwayne]

here's my confession (I'm kind of hooked on you)

Pairing: Buddie || 6.5k/109k || Chapter 1/19 ||

Hello, I participated in @118bigbang !! This is the first chapter (I'll be dropping the rest through the month). I'm so excited to finally be sharing this fic with everyone, I've worked so hard!!! Lots of moral support from my friends in the Buddie Enablers Anonymous discord <3

This is also lovingly entitled: DILF EDDIE

Summary:

Buck is forced to go on a temporary medical leave after getting crushed by a flight of stairs. In the meantime, he works at dispatch while he recovers. One evening after work, Buck hooks up with a mysterious, hot, family oriented DILF. The following morning he’s mortified and a little love sick after discovering said hook-up aka Eddie Diaz is the newest (temporary) firefighter liaison--poached from a house in El Paso, Texas. Buck navigates becoming best friends and eventually work partners with his ex-hookup. In the meantime, he desperately tries not to fall in love. He fails.

Cue: An adorable five year old, prank wars, gay offs, break room gossip, a fake dating plot, firefighting shenanigans, a packed summer of PTA responsibilities, karaoke, and copious amounts of cupcakes and thai food

OR

tldr: the hot dilf from the bar is my new work partner ______

SNIP:

“Bobby invited us for lunch. Athena’s getting me out of the apartment and making me walk around like a dog who needs to get its energy out.” Buck explains earning a huff of amusement from Athena. Hen smacks him lightly for his mock petulant tone.

Without being asked, Hen loops her arm around his waist and helps him tackle the stairs. Buck lets out a slow breath, seeing firsthand that absolutely nothing has changed during his month and a half away from the team soothes him. Bobby is in the kitchen with Chimney who is pestering him incessantly. The sight makes his chest ache because he never wants to lose these people. They felt more like family than his own ever had growing up. In such a short amount of time they’d come to know each other so deeply, they've already been through so much—especially after Chimney had his incident with the wreck and the rebar. He was barely back from his own medical leave before Buck had his own incident.

Although Bobby nagged him for weeks, Buck opted for a tiny graduation celebration. At the time, he hadn’t known how to explain to Bobby that there was no one outside of his tiny circle of friends to invite. Now Athena knows though, and he needs to make a mental note to ask if she could keep their conversation between the two of them. He doesn’t want to change the way his friends see him, and he doesn't want pity. He’s worried this new information might be a little too on the nose.

“What’s new with you, Buckley?” Chimney calls across the room, smiling and waving. “How you healing up?” Buck slides into a seat at the dining table, and Bobby, Chim, and Hen turn their full attention onto him.

“I’m healing alright. They’ve still got me on track for a return after six months. I’ll be able to walk without the crutch before too long, my ribs should be healed in a couple of weeks. Then I’ll just have PT to contend with, because of the leg strain and the fracture, my trainer says it might be tenuous, so I have that to look forward to at least.”

“It’ll be here in no time,” Chimney promised. “You just need to get a hobby. You’re lacking in those. Maybe I could make you a list of movies, you’re tragically behind on pop culture.”

“Actually, I've accepted a temporary position at dispatch,” Buck admits. Bobby beams, and Buck barely restrains a groan.

“Yes, I finally caved.” Buck tells him, although he didn’t ask. “Athena took me to visit today.”

___ Reblogs to boost appreciated :)

[thehypnone]

go hypnone, if it's okay could I ask for something with rain and his physical pains? my feet and wrist have flaired up for no real reason this week and it made me think of him.

never gonna say no to some projecting onto rain. also i hope your feet and wrist stop giving you hard time asap :/

580 words, hurt/comfort/fluff

“Did my favorite water ghoul die in his sleep?” Swiss burst through Rain’s door, no regards to anyone’s privacy as usual. He walked over to the bed and the Rain-shaped lump on it. “It’s nearing lunch and you haven’t had breakfast. You love breakfast, raincloud, are you okay?”

“What do you think?” he growled from under all the covers.

“Rain,” Swiss said sternly, in that specific voice that the water ghoul knew all too well. He and Swiss had made an arrangement ages ago, that when Rain acted like an asshole towards someone who didn’t deserve it because of his pain, Swiss would scold him. It worked.

“‘m sorry,” Rain mumbled.

“It’s alright.” The multi ghoul smiled sadly, knowing now that it was indeed a bad day for Rain. He sat by him on the edge of the bed and put a hand over the lump made of Rain and the bedding. “Can I see your pretty face, princess?”

With a loud grumble the lump shifted and Rain’s head poked out, eyes puffy with purple under them. “Hi, Bambi.”

“Hi, Swiss.”

The multi ghoul laid down on his side—as close to Rain as the blankets and comforters he had wrapped around himself would allow—and kissed the tip of his nose. “I’m sorry, princess. It sucks. Anything I can do?”

“No, it’ll pass, just–” the water ghoul sighed. “Just lay with me, okay? Hold me?”

Swiss smiled and leaned in for another kiss, this time to the other’s lips. “Always, raincloud.”

He shucked off his jeans as Rain wiggled an arm out to lift the contents of his nest. Swiss chuckled at that—the reminder about how a nest should look like on the tip of his tongue. The water ghoul was famous for getting under his nest rather than into it.

Swiss crawled back in and laid on his back, letting Rain choose how he wanted to cuddle, also not wanting to jostle his aching vessel by pulling him close. The water ghoul shuffled down a bit and glued himself to the other’s side, laying his head on Swiss’ chest.

“Can you warm me up a bit, too?” Rain asked, looking up at Swiss with his big, cerulean blue eyes. The multi ghoul nodded, leaning down to kiss the water ghoul as he kicked up his temperature. He smuggled a tiny bit of quintessence between the waves of infernal heat. He immediately felt a bit guilty for that, knowing Rain didn’t exactly agree to it, but he couldn’t not do it. 

“I love you, princess,” Swiss muttered quietly into his hair, squeezing him tightly, but carefully. “Every damn day I wish I could just– take it all away from you, you have no idea–”

“Swiss,” Rain said. “It’s not your fault.”

“I know it’s not, but–”

“Baby, you do blame yourself. You stink of it,” the water ghoul chuckled, poking Swiss’ belly under the comforters. 

“Excuse me– I don’t stink!”

“Well, not all the time. Just when you're sick with worry for your… favorite water ghoul? That’s what you said or did I mishear?” Rain threw a leg over the multi ghoul’s thighs and laid himself out on top of him, his chin perched up on his sternum.

“Oh, it’s not like you have a lot of competition… but yeah,” Swiss laughed, “I guess you are. And I guess I may stink sometimes, but it’s the smell of love, Bambi.”

The water ghoul grinned and batted his eyelashes at him. “Sure, sure… I love you, too.”

[lillyspeakz]

fun fairs and copywrites.

a/n: the soothouse video basically. I made it longer though- like 5-6k words. So enjoy!

warnings: some sexual innuendos, fluff, David and George being the classic third wheels, autistic reader basically, anxiety, all over fluff with some mental issues but they’re small.

not proof read at all!

enjoy!

video link.

-

It was the middle of November and knowing the group, they had nothing they had to do besides uni work and recording videos for Wilbur so he could edit them.

Knowing the place like the back of his hand, Wilbur suggested they go to the fair downtown, wanting to get out of the tight space they call an apartment and into the fresh freezing air. George and David agreed to go, wanting to fuck around and escape their problems for a bit, as Wilbur looked at you with hope in his eyes.

“Please come? We can go on as many rides and do as many games as you want. I’ll even let you wear my coat, I know you like it.” He smiled up at you as he crouched down, looking into your eyes as he took your hands in his, playing with the rings adorning your fingers.

You smiled back at him, shaking your head as you leaned down and placed your forehead against his, sighing as your nose touched his. The close intimate space the two of you were in, warmth taking over both your bodies as you hummed out in question.

“Fine. As long as you make me hot chocolate when we get back?” You asked as he chuckled at your response, leaning back as he cupped your face in his hands.

“Always.” He said as he searched your eyes for any hesitation, only finding love and excitement, leaning in with a laugh as he placed his lips on yours. The smiles on your faces interrupted the sweet moment, giggles ringing through the room as footsteps were heard from the hallway.

“Can you two stop being a couple for five minutes and get ready? The fair closes at 10!” George hurriedly said as he got out Wil’s coat and a scarf for you.

-

Wil’s camera hung around his neck as he made sure his SD card was new and working, as well as his lense.

You huddled next to him, trying to find another source of warmth in this weather. You had a long sleeved on as well as one of Wilbur’s hoodies and his winter coat. He forced the scarf on you, not wanting your ears to get cold, no matter how much you complained that you were fine.

“No, you need it. I know you, you’re going to regret not wearing it because the wind will get down your jacket and make you more cold and you’re going to get sick and-“

“Wilbur, baby. I’ll wear it if it’ll make you feel better.” You said softly as he took a deep breath and sighed out in relief.

“Please.” He said while nodding, holding the cloth out for you as you stepped towards him.

“Of course.”

Wilbur had his other winter coat on, yet the old material not doing him any good as it was worn from many years of service. He wore his signature beanie, desperately keeping his ears out of the cold. His nose was strawberry red and his hands turning white and blue.

“Baby, come here.” You took the camera from Wilbur’s hands, placing it down gently against his chest as you took his hands in yours. You kissed his nose gently as you placed his hands around your waist, into the jacket against your warm body, hoping his hands warm up slightly from the new found comfort.

“Thank you. If this camera would work, we would be able to get this over with faster but-“

“Hey! It’s ok. The boys are doing-“ you looked over your shoulder to see David and George waving their hands around in weird gestures, ranting about god knows what. “Whatever they do. And I’m here with you. So take your time.” You whispered to him as he smiled at you, placing his forehead on yours once again.

“Luckily for us I got it to work and I need a video by the end of this week.” Wilbur sighed out as he called George and David over, them both racing to be first.

“I won!” David said while panting, coming in a few seconds behind George as you and Wilbur both laughed, the camera being pointed to the dying man as the blonde scoffed.

“Fucking when? Because from my understanding, you ate my dust so-“ George finished with sticking his tongue out at the man, screaming in fear as David reached out for him.

“Ok! Ok, let’s get going before it gets too late, it’s bloody cold outside.” Wilbur complained while pointing the camera at you than the boys.

“Hey guys, it’s me David from Soothouse. And I’m here to endorse London. This is just an average day at the park, as you can see, they’re all having a lot of fun.” David explained in a monotoned voice as Wilbur zoomed into the fair happening behind them all and onto Dave’s face.

As he walked away, George came up beside Wilbur, watching the event take place as Wilbur turned the camera onto him. “Basically. Yesterday there was a mass panic and-“ before George can finish your laugh broke through the silence as Wilbur and George followed along with you, not being able to handle the serious tone George held.

“Why the fuck- I’m sorry that was so fucking funny…” you said while wiping your eyes of any tears that fell, falling into Wilbur as he laughed along with you.

“It’s very tragic! Someone could’ve died-“

“Oh fuck… wasn’t a false alarm?” You asked Wil as he simply stared at you and raised an eyebrow.

“Oh so now I’m just your personally Google?!” The man joked as you shrugged, and looked away while slowly nodding. Wilbur gasped out in betrayal as you laughed and immediately started denying what you said.

“No no! I love you! And you’re more than a personal google, you just pay attention to things more than I do..” you giggled at him as he shook his head at you and brought you into a soft kiss, fingers gripping your chin as he tilted your head.

“Don’t inflate his ego anymore than it is! We talked about this-“ David groaned as you both pulled away as Wilbur smirked at the two.

“What can I say? I’m simply just so smart to my partner that they can come to me for anything…” Wilbur smiled as the boys groaned and complained how he’s going to brag about this to everyone, as you simply rolled your eyes at them and looked up at Wilbur expectantly. “Yes it was a false alarm, there wasn’t any evidence of shots being fired-“

As Wilbur put the camera back up, George started up once more, the tone coming back as he got close and personally with the camera. “We were all very scared. And- you know life’s about celebrating the good things! And um- that’s why we’re here today. We’re here to walk around the outside of winter wonderland and look in-“ George concluded as you and Wilbur laughed at his words, both freezing your asses off yet not caring enough as you guys were enjoying each others company.

“Would you ever go on that David?”

“Hell no! Look at it- the people on one side, they lose their limbs at the end.”

“Oh don’t say that-“ you whined out as the sight of the ride made you sick to your stomach.

“the sheer terror on their faces! Can you see it from here? Because I can! They’re terrified.” George looked at the ride as you hid into Wilbur’s side, not wanting to look at the ride anymore. You didn’t hate rides, but ones that went too fast, or caused your body to go into positions you didn’t like entirely, made you uneasy. And Wilbur knew this.

“Hey, we all collectively agreed we won’t go near that ride yeah? We can go on all the kid rides if you want, I may not fit, but it’s worth the try if you’ll have fun.” Wilbur put the camera down as he took your hand in his, pressing the cold skin against his lips, somehow warming both parts of the body up as he did.

“I’d like that.” You agreed as you smiled at the man in front of you, kissing his nose once more as you pulled him along, catching up with David and George.

As all four of you walked towards the fair, having to go around the place, you were hanging off of Wilbur’s arm, talking about what you were doing for the holidays coming up and what he should do, knowing how he dealt with them.

“You should come with me! Or even go visit your mom-“

“Wil- look what this fucker is doing!” David interrupted as Wilbur softly apologized and told you he’d be back.

Getting the camera set he pointed it at George as he danced to the music. “This is my jam!” Twisting and twirling as the faint music played, almost falling over himself as he did. David looked around clueless as Wilbur zoomed in onto him, then immediately panning onto you, making you look like a little big.

“Aww wait this is actually so cute- my little bug baby!” Wilbur cooed as you smiled up at him, nose scrunching in embarrassment as his comments continued.

“Stop, I don’t need anymore bad content on me on the channel-“

“Bad? Baby that was adorable! I’m keeping that for myself…” Wilbur whispered to you with a smile as you whined at the confession, never getting used to his way of showing his love for you and his compliments.

“Ok lovebirds- let’s go yeah?”

-

Walking further away from the fair, Wilbur telling the three of you it’s a “short cut”, which you all knew was bullshit.

Finally making it to downtown London, you all sat and looked at the structure in front of you.

“I don’t think it’s an arch-“ you said to George as you turned your head in many different ways, standing in front of Wil who caught the little mannerism on camera.

Laughing, Wilbur zoomed in closer to the structure as George hummed and nodded.

“Looks like an arch to me!”

“Are we- are we in France guys?”

“Yes. This is France.” David answered immediately as you snapped your head back to look at Wilbur with a playful smirk.

“Tu veux que je t'apprenne comment nous, les Français, nous embrassons ? Nous sommes vraiment doués pour ça, nous avons inventé une façon de nous embrasser grâce à ça.” You expressed with a smirk on your face as all three boys looked at you with wide eyes. Yet Wilbur’s weren’t filled with confusion. He knew exactly what you were saying thanks to your late night teachings after long days and activities. He was always curious, and he loved hearing you speak the language.

“What the fuck did you just say-“

“Yes please.” Wilbur and David said at the same time, George and David looking at Wilbur like he’s crazy.

“Did you just say yes to your death?!” George teased as you scoffed at him, gently nudging him as he laughed at you.

“No, let’s just say he has some stuff to learn when he get back home…” you winked at the tall man as his eyes widened and cheeks flushed.

“Did not need to hear that, did not need to hear that at all, we are going!” George said, taking David’s hand in his as you laughed at the pair, taking Wil’s in your own, falling back into step with the duo.

“I’m joking. Unless you do want to-“

“You think I’m passing up such a good opportunity to learn more French?” The smirk placed on his face made it aware that what he was saying had a deeper meaning only meant for you. “Plus it’s with you so please.”

You smiled up at him as he started pulling you faster, closer to George and David as you made it into the city. Buses going by as people crowded the streets, the smell of beer and drugs lingering in the air as you made a distasteful sound and cornered next to Wilbur.

Your anxiety went up when you were in big crowds and loud areas, hating how all the factors were combined at once, especially when you barely knew the area unlike Wilbur. He held the camera with one hand and your own in his other, making sure he knew where you were at all times.

Jazz music played as you all walked passed a saxophone player on the sidewalk, the speakers blaring loudly at you all. Covering your ear closest to the loud music, you wrapped your arms around the man, fear over taking your senses.

“I’m sorry.” You said into his chest and yes squeezing shut as you let him guide you. “I didn’t think it’d be this bad today-“

“Hey, what did I say about the ‘s’ word? It’s not your fault baby, I didn’t either. If I knew I wouldn’t have gone this way.” Wilbur spoke softly to you, camera in his hand still, pointing at the ground as he held you close to him. “Just knows I’m here and I won’t let anything happen to you. If you need we can go into a little shop real quick?” Wilbur asked as you shook your head, yet holding into his arm and hand tighter as he held you through the whole way.

As you all made it to a crosswalk, waiting for the go ahead, Wilbur asked George what their mission was now.

“Looking for a place to shit. That’s really what it’s about. Harder than you think!”

“Have you guys tried any of the corner shops we passed? We’ve passed like 5-“

“That’s how little you think of us? We demand a luxury bathroom with a bidet and a glass of whine on my hand!” Wilbur exclaimed to you as he pointed the camera on your direction as you laughed.

“Well… we do live in London…” you dragged on as Wilbur gave you a playful stink eye, knowing you were right about that statement and how expensive stuff was now for something so simple.

“I’m going to pretend you didn’t say that-“ Wilbur deadpanned as your laugh broke through the air, his tone and glare dropping as he smiled at you.

The camera filmed your shoes as you both took big strides, or you practically ran as Wilbur walked. It took you all about 5 more minutes to get to your destination, your pants being heard as you grabbed onto Wilbur to slow him down.

“I have little legs…”

“Want to hop on my back?” Wilbur asked as he turned around, ready for you to hop on.

“Baby, you won’t be able to film. I’ll be fine- Wilbur!” You screeched as he wrapped your arms around his neck and hoisted you up onto his back, gripping the back of your thighs as he jumped up to get you into place.

“See. Nice and cozy. Now just grab your legs around my waist- yup! And I can film! I’m a man of many wonders love.” Wilbur smirks back at you as you scoff at him, chin resting on his shoulder as he lifted the camera up to David, walking towards the fair as he did.

“where are we, David?”

“Um… think we’re in New Orleans last time I checked.” David told the camera as you all continued to make your way down the path, an automated voice greeting you on your way.

Finally making it to the entrance, you hopped off of Wil’s back as you wrapped yourself up with the coat, the fur of the hood covering your ears and making you nuzzle into the warmth more.

“I like to reconnect with my ears when they’re cold.” George said as he held his hands over his ears, hands not any better than his ears.

-

“Dude! Didn’t we trade mark the word-“

“the word house?” David finished for Wilbur as he repeated the sentence, laughing as they pointed at the fun house, claiming that they could technically sue for copyright.

“Do you think we should sue?”

“Fuck no! We barely have money for it, plus they were the og’s so-“

“She has a point…” Wilbur sighed as David slapped his arm.

“Siding with your partner isn’t always the right way!”

“It’s the only way David. I’m always right.” You finish off for him with a smile, Wilbur laughing at you as he nodded, not putting up a fight with that.

As you continued to walk further into the event, you all stopped at a ticket booth, dragging Wilbur by the arm as George and David followed and laughed as Wil made a face back at them.

“How many?”

“Um, 100 please!” You smiled at the worker as they grabbed a bundle of tickets and handed them to you.

“That’ll be 32 pounds please!” The worker said, exhaustion underlying their tone as Wilbur reached for his wallet, being cut off by your cheery voice, thanking the person as you grabbed the tickets.

“Love, you didn’t have to pay for those. It wasn’t even your idea to go!” Wilbur exclaimed to you as he rushed back to your side.

“Wil, you pay for my stuff all the time, and your still trying to pay for Uni. It’s the least I can do for you guys!” You smiled up at the man as he sighed out, bringing your lips into a sweet kiss as you walked.

“Thank you. I love you.”

“I love you too!” You exclaimed back at the man, both of your eyes practically shaping into hearts as you both looked at each other.

The moment was cut off as you ran into a pair of backs, George and David turning around to look at you too with exasperated looks.

“They were looking at each other again, weren’t they?!” George asked David as he nodded at the question, rolling his eyes jokingly at the pair, grumbling about how sick they made him.

-

As you stood in line for the Ferris Wheel, you all got into one cart, filling up the space as you did. You sat across from Wil, George next to you as David was next to Wilbur.

As the door closed, Wilbur asked if we all thought we could break out and get out of the cart before it started. He reached for the door, making you grab his hand and shake your head.

“Wilbur I swear to the heavens above, you’re lucky you even got me on this thing. If you’re not going to pull a Ryan Gosling by climbing up this torture device and asking me out on a date, don’t think about it.” You said sternly at the man as his eyes widened at you, sitting back in his seat.

“Damn… you’ve watched the notebook too much-“

“Tell him that-“ you pointed at Wilbur as he looked at you with betrayal as George laughed at him.

“You always want to watch it?” David exclaimed as Wilbur shook his head.

“Not always! It’s a good movie and the plot is very interesting-“

“He cries to it every time. He’s a real man. Take some notes.” You said as you looked at the pair next to you.

“Yeah! I’m a real man, fucker.” Wilbur told David as you all laughed.

As the ride slowly went up and the height difference became more apparent, you didn’t pay any mind to look down, knowing if you did, it would be your demise.

George went on about how they couldn’t do content anymore and how you all were going to jump out of the ride, while you looked at your shoes, tapping to a random song that was in your head. More so one Wilbur had gotten stuck in your head.

“And here’s my lovely partner, who is definitely terrified of heights but it’s ok-“

“Hey!” You laughed as you looked up at him to see the camera focused on you, Wilbur looking at what the film was capturing, keeping it in focus the whole time.

As you looked at him, you were making faces and smiling, causing giggles to escape both of you. Finally making eye contact with you, Wilbur silently said a small ‘I love you’ as your cheeks flushed red and your smile turned to one that hurt wearing from how big it was.

‘I love you too.’ You worded back as David asked to sit next to George, causing you to nod immediately and switch seats with the man, huddling next to Wil as you did.

“I prefer this.” You whispered to the man, lying your head on his shoulder as he nodded, agreeing with your statement as the ride continued and slowly came to a stop, letting you all out.

-

“If I die in here I’m blaming you.” You said as you pointed to David who convinced all of you to go into the fun house.

“Why me?!” He questioned as you shrugged at him, trying to come up with a good reason.

“Because. Weren’t you just wanting to sue this place for copyright?”

“No! That was not my idea at all, that was his!” Dave said as he pointed at Wilbur who had a shocked look on his face, almost hurt at the call out.

“You agreed!” Wilbur fired back as you all walked further into the building.

As you continued walking, going through hallways and staircases with various different obstacles, you came across a bridge that went through a spinning tunnel.

“Holy fuck- I think I might actually fall.” You laughed as Wilbur’s free hand came up to your back, guiding you through as he filmed David and George.

As you slowly walked through, your eyes fell onto the wall that was spinning, causing you to slowly trip in front of the man.

“Fucking hell! Do I need to carry you?” He said while laughing as you held onto the railing, laughing your ass off, as Wilbur slowly ushered you off of the platform. “Almost killed us!”

“I even warned you!” You said while walking over to the boys who were equally as giddy as you both from the scene they just witnessed.

“How did that even happen?!” George asked while you wiped away the tears that ran down your cheeks.

“Don’t ask-“ you said as you walked towards the mirror maze, looking back at the guys with a scared look. “I’ll stay back here.”

As George and David walked through, your hands immediately went out, feeling what was around you and what mirror was where, desperately trying to find an open space.

“Baby, you don’t have to do that! I’m in front of you, worse comes to worse I hurt myself ramming into one.”

“And that’s exactly why I’m doing this! To make sure that doesn’t happen..” you retorted back as one of your hands went and held Wilbur’s jacket.

As you both followed George and David, all your trust in them to get out, George and David went separate ways to see which one was the right one, yet failing as they did.

“We already went that!” David exclaimed to George as he turned around and went back the way we just came.

Wilbur continued to walk straight, not paying attention to the reflection of his camera on the material in front of him.

“Wilbur that’s not-“

“Ow!” Wilbur let out as his camera hit the wall, colliding with his chest as he caught himself before face planting.

Your laugh filled the area as you slide down the wall behind you, grabbing onto Wilbur once again as he turned to you, laughing as well.

“You were supposed to be helping me!” He yelled out as he bent over, camera dangling down as he tried to catch his breath.

“I-I’m s-sorry! That was s-so funny!” You barely got out as you also tried to catch your breath, tears once again falling as you did.

“Oh man, thank god the cameras fine, thought I crushed it.” Wilbur said as he examined the device, focusing and turning the lense as he checked.

“Yeah, I tried warning you but- that was worth it-“

“What happened over here?!” George asked as he came back over, leaping over you too as you both shook your heads telling him you’d show him later.

-

You all finally called it a night, the cold getting to you as you all played a couple games and rode some more rides to make the tickets well worth it.

As you stood on the train, one hand holding onto the rail and the other holding Wilbur for balance.

Wilbur stood his ground as he held the camera up to George as he summarized the day they had. Or night.

“It had a beginning. Definitely had a middle. This is the end.” He whispered into the camera as Wilbur laughed, turning off the camera to save the battery as much as he could.

“Fuck I’m tired.” Wilbur mumbled as he rubbed his face, body swaying with the train as it moved.

“We’ll go to bed once we’re home, get all nice and warm.” You whispered to him, your head gently resting on his chest as he wrapped one arm around your shoulder, the other holding onto the handles as well.

“What about the tea?” He questioned, remembering the promise he made to you.

“Hmm you can make it for me when we wake up tomorrow. I can wait, but right now what I want is to just sleep and have you hold me.” You said, your words slurring as sleep washed over you, body falling into Wilbur’s as he caught you into his embrace.

“Ok baby, let’s get off real quick and I’ll carry you the rest of the way, yeah?” As you nodded at him, he gently dragged you with him, telling George and David to go ahead.

As you both made it up to the streets, Wilbur brought you in front of him and gently lifted you up by your thighs, wrapping them around his waist. Your arms automatically found the space around his neck, nuzzling into the cold skin as you fell in and out of the desirable state.

“I love you..” you slurred out as Wilbur chuckled at you, opening the door to the apartment.

“I love you too darling.” He said softly, waving at everyone that he hasn’t seen yet, whispering a small goodnight, the saying being reciprocated back just as softly.

As you heard a door open and shit softly, your back making contact with a plush mattress and hands leave your body, you whined out, looking for that warmth again.

“It’s ok baby. I’m getting you some clothes so I can help you change.” The man said softly, quickly finding a sweater of his once more and your favorite pajama pants, placing them on the bed.

“Ok, come here love. I’ll be quick.” Wil said as he took your shoes off in a swipe of his hand, helping you shuffle and shrug everything off. With you being no help whatsoever in this state, he struggled to get you dressed.

Your hands kept finding his and wanting him in the bed to sleep, complaining of the cold weather and wishing you were back home.

“We are home love, and if you get these pants on, we can go to bed yeah?” That proposition seemed to peek your interested as you helped the man get your pjs on quicker than before, immediately getting under the covers and grabbing for him.

“Wil..” you held out his name until you felt the bed dip from him sitting down.

“Can you move over love? I need to lie down too-“ Wilbur asked as you were currently starfished across the bed.

Scooting over, you curled up in on yourself under the covers, feeling the man curl his arms around you and hold you to his chest.

“Thank you for coming today. I’ll make it up you, promise.” Wilbur whispered as your soft breathes made him smile down at you, pressing a soft kiss to your temple.

“I love you.” You said once more before sleep finally took you on her grasp and whisked you away with her.

As he closed his eyes, Wilbur realized he wasn’t far from sleep either, falling victim to her sweet song.

Holding you closer than before, he sighed out with a smile before the sweet taste of sleep became too much.

“I love you.”

taglist: @number1wilburfan @xxvalentinezxx @evil-peanut-butter-addict-sam @rottenr0ckets @cloverlilly91 @horny-p0et @heartofwritiing @lizziehatters-teacards (if I missed anyone please lmk!)

[parrythisucasual]

Heyaa! How your doing? Can I request how Jax would react to his s/o being just like ENA? When she always swapping personality for being too overwhelmed whit all and then vomiting (just like that scene whit her and Moony, and if you can may add Moony being...Moony? Being mean to her)

I DID MY BEST SORRY SORRY I REALLY AM GETTING TO ALL ASKS I PROMISE!!!!!!

Jax  ENA! Reader

“Wh-where am I? What is this place?” you cry out, grabbing either side of your head in a panic. You grip your oddly-cut hair, clenching it in yur fists and tugging, “Who are you people?! I hate people! I’m allergic!!” you suddenly feel rather calm, that little outburst nothing more than an embarrassing slip of the mind, “So very sorry about that!” You smoot your hair into its original, calm state.

“Uh… wow, what an entrance,” a strange, mix-and-match creature speaks first, “that’s even weirder than half the (DINK!!) that comes out of Kinger’s mouth.” The doll steps closer to you, reaching forward to get your attention, “She’s rather divided anyways, look at her,” she hums, “two entirely different halves, down to the color and texture.”

You glance down at your hands, confused, “I am not two dif-” you stop. You were. You were two separate colors, two opposing textures. It was dizzyingly terrifying.You scream, the sorrow and fear rushing over you once more.

,”No, no! I don’t wanna be like this!” you wail, waving your hands, “I’m so hideous I could-” you retch, liquified censoring spewing from your lips. You hurl your guts at the group’s feet. “Is this a bad time?” A new voice questioned. The doll glanced up, “Oh, Caine, good! Can you do your whole… you know, introduction? It might help?”

“Or it’ll make her have even more of a crisis,” The rabbit pointed out, “I don’t know about you all, but I don’t exactly want to deal with her puking again. “HEY! You leave her alone, only I’M allowed to bully her, you wad!” A floating sphere appeared behind you. 

“Moony!” Thank goodness, I was worried about you!” You chirp, somehow knowing she is your friend. The calmness washed over you once more as you hopped up, smiling at her. You glance at the others once more, “Apologies again, dearest chums! I entirely forgot to introduce myself! I’m (Y/N)!”

~~~~~~~~~~TIMESKIP~~~~~~~~~~~

You’ve been stuck in the circus for a few weeks now. Part of you was used to it now, you resigned yourself to the fact this is how things were now. The other side, however, was the part that kept you thinking you’d wake up, or that you could find an exit soon. It was hard, being so bipolar, but you had gotten used to it.

Recently, you’d noticed Jax had been following you around. Well, more than he used to. He used to follow you occasionally, mostly to make snide comments. That was a pastime of his. But in these recent encounters, some of them you’d never directly interacted with him. You’d just see him at a distance, and he’d look away or leave. 

“Ugh! (Y/N), get your weird, gross boyfriend!” Moony complained loudly, making an exaggerated sick face. She floated around you, now in front of you. You glance up at her, “I don’t have a boyfriend, friend Moony!” you chirp, smiling. She nods her head behind you, “Then what do you call HIM?”

You turn, noticing the lavender rabbit quite a distance behind you. You blink in confusion, squinting at him. Why was he following you? You wave at him, arm making large swipes above your head, “JAX!” -you call- “Over here!”

He makes a face at you, although he quickens his pace. He’s now awkwardly jogging, trying to catch up to you. “EW! (Y/N), no! Don’t call him over! Ugh! It was supposed to be besties night!” Your shoulders droop, suddenly awash in despair, “You’re RIGHT! I’m sorry Moony! I’m such a horrible friend! I ruined everythiiiiiiing!” She rolls her eyes, then unexpectedly perked up.

“Wait, maybe we can hang out with him! He’s a guy, but having another person would make truth or dare funner!” She grinned, looking at you mischievously. You sniffle as Jax finally catches up with the two of you. 

“Half and half, nice to see ya,” his smile was wide, but his voice suggested a casual tone. You rub at your eyes, “It can’t be! I’m no-good! I’ll make you upset!” Your shoulders roll forward suddenly as you stand upright, at a slightly inclined angle.

Jax was unfazed by the sudden change, not sparing more than a bored stare. You smile at him regardless, “Ah! Yes! Come with us! Moony’s room ahead!” He followed behind, groaning, “A weird nonbinary and girl sleepover? No thanks! But fine.” 

The group of you entered Moony’s room. She’d already gotten everything ready. Snacks piled in one corner and a pile of pillows and blankets all over the floor. You clap your hands together happily, “Oh! All set up! How lonely! Deepest gratitude!” You settle yourself on the cat pillow and relax. Moony lays herself in the beanbag chair beside you, and Jax on your other side.

Moony sighed dramatically, “In proper besties night tradition, I will now spill all the latest drama I’ve come across,” she cleared her throat, and delved into a long-winded speech. You glance at Jax midway through her dialog drop. “So! Why were you truly following us?” you question him, “I’m well aware you do it a lot. I didn’t realize others knew as well, or I’d have asked sooner.” 

His cheeks flushed very slightly, barely noticeable, “What are you talking about?” Oh, so thats the direction- playing dumb. You get a wild urge and decide to play with this a bit.

Yeah, I could have sworn I've been seeing you everywhere I go,” you raise a brow playfully, letting him know how long you’ve been aware of it. He scoffs, waving you off, “Why would I do that? You sure you’re not going crazy?”

“Yeah, maybe… why? Why would you?” You turned his denial into a genuine question. Moony’s rambling filled the air between you two for far too long, his deciding on which answer to give taking much longer than it should. He is teetering on the verge of his response, and you sigh and shake your head.

“Its not honest if it's been this long, I don’t wanna hear it. If it’s something dumb like you like me just say it!” He stopped dead, then his face became one of a man about to get his revenge. “Akright,” he agreed, “yeah. I like you. You’re pretty cool. Way cooler than the others. And youre genuine. You get it?”

You’re stunned, the confession was very obviously genuine. You stammer a moment, trying to say something even you didn’t know what it would be. Moony shouted above your thoughts, however, adding only more confusion, “Oh my god, I TOLD you, (Y/N)! He likes you!” Your face flushes, and your friend giggles at you. Your gaze snaps between an eager to watch Moony and a worried about the response Jax.

You blink, mind finally catching up to you, “Y-you do? I… Would you like to… go on a date?” you tested nervously. Jax’s shoulders dipped in relief, “Yeah. Maybe a day at the fairgrounds.” You nod your agreement, scooting closer to him.

Moony puffed up her metaphorical chest, “My plan totally worked!” You glance at her, a disbeleiving frown playing on your lips, “Oh yeah? Plan?” She grinned, “Yeah, I definitely set this up so you two would confess.” You laughed, “Sure you did, Moony.”

As you spoke, Jax set his hand on yours. You respond by tanging your fingers with his, your heart picking up slightly. You weren’t sure, exactly, how it had happened, but you were positive is wasnt Moony. Either way, you were glad it had.

[smilesrobotlover]

Whumptober day 23- Motion Sickness

It’s a bit messy but I had fun :) and I also wrote a day before so hopefully I can get back on schedule! And no waiting!

Warnings for throwing up, the words “throw up” and “vomit” being thrown around, and a mysterious tentacle monster appearing

~~~~~|

“Oh no.”

All the men gathered to where Leon stood, looking at a vast, blue lake. It was huge, with the land across it barely visible.

“Well, this’ll be a long trip,” Benji said, watching the waves gently lap against the shore. “Are we going around?”

Leon shook his head. “No. That’ll take forever. We need to keep moving that way.” He sighed watching the water reflect against the sun. How were they going to get across?

“Hey, I see some people down there,” Linebeck said, pointing to the beach. The rest of the men looked and spotted a group of people next to a big boat huddled far away from them. Leon turned to Linebeck and nodded, walking to where the group was.

“Let’s hope they can take us across.”

The men stumbled through the trees and bushes to reach the group, and when they arrived, some looked their way while others ignored them. But one man marched up to them, a hat on his head, a stick in his hand, and a forced smile on his face.

“Welcome! Are you here to take the ferry across the lake?”

Leon looked between the man and the boat, before nodding. “Will it take us to the other side?”

“He said he’d take us across the lake, Leon,” Linebeck muttered, and Leon gave him a look.

“Yes! Do you folks need a ride? The lake is awfully big and will take you weeks to get around! This will cut your time easily! It’ll only be a few hours!”

Leon nodded, along with the rest of the men. It sure beat traveling for weeks in the woods. They’d like to get away from the mountains anyway.

“Perfect! It’ll be twenty rupees per person!” The sailor said, his hand held out for Leon, but he only stared in shock, realization hitting him.

“Uh, Leon, do we have rupees?” Linebeck asked quietly, and Benji leaned up next to him.

“No, he gave all our money to Shirley, remember?”

“I knew we should’ve saved that money,” Linebeck grumbled, turning to the men who had their pockets empty of all rupees.

“You—you folks do have money, right?” The man asked, and Leon pursed his lips, staring wide-eyed as if a solution would appear out of nowhere.

“I—”

“Not a problem! I take people regardless of money!” The man exclaimed, putting his hand away.

“Oh, well thank you. I’m sorry we—” Leon started, but the man grabbed his arm and started pulling.

“Come now! I’ll seat you first!” The man said, pulling Leon aggressively through the crowd of people. Linebeck latched onto Leon’s arm before he was completely pulled away, with Benji, Rusl, Talon, Kass, and Ammon all trailing behind.

“Well, at least we don’t have to wait to be seated!” Rusl said cherrily.

“I wonder what a boat ride will be, I’ve never been on one,” Talon muttered thoughtfully. “I bet the water would be beautiful and we’d see fish and everything.”

The men wondered as well, imagining a boat ride on the lake. They bet it’d be beautiful and peaceful, with wind blowing through their hair and water splashing on their faces.

But that did not end up happening.

“WHAT THE HECK IS THIS?” Linebeck yelled, staring at the brown wall in front of them. The men were stuck in the storage, where it was dark and damp, with droplets of water landing on each man. The boat had started moving, and the men were all sitting miserably, with Leon, Talon, and Benji in particular bent over, trying not to vomit.

“I would’ve preferred it if we stayed on the dock,” Kass muttered, curled up on himself as he watched the walls with a fearful look in his eyes.

“I guess that’s what we get for not having rupees,” Rusl grumbled, leaning up against a box. He glanced over at the sick men. “Are y’all doing ok?”

“I’m f-fine,” Talon said weakly, his eyes closed and his brows pinched together. Leon grabbed Benji and leaned towards him, his face pale.

“Benji, give me your guitar, I’m gonna throw up.”

“You are not vomiting in my guitar!”

Ammon got up, looking around the storage bins. “Maybe there’s something you can all throw up in if you do?”

“If we were on deck we wouldn’t need anything,” Linebeck sighed, plopping down on the ground. “You all could just vomit in the water.”

“Can we stop sayin’ that word please,” Talon begged, his hand over his mouth.

“What, vomit?”

Talon gagged, and the men silenced themselves, watching Talon in fear as he froze. Benji leaned in, staring wide-eyed at Talon.

“Are you gonna throw up, Talon?”

Talon gagged again and Leon shoved Benji away.

“You’re making it worse!” He scolded, holding Benji back.

“Look I’m just saying that if Talon throws up, I’m gonna throw up too,” he said with a shaky, thick voice.

“Stop saying those words!” Talon yelled as Ammon placed a bucket up next to him.

“Just try to throw up in there,” Ammon said, and Talon shot him a glare. “I—sorry.”

“Ok, guys, let’s calm down,” Rusl started, putting his hands up. “Clearly this is gonna be a long ride so let’s talk about things to distract us from… regurgitation…”

“That doesn’t help, buddy,” Talon mumbled, leaning over the bucket, and Rusl sighed.

“Well I tried.”

“How about we talk about that loud sound coming from in this room that’s making my ears bleed!” Leon grumbled, his hands over his ears. Rusl raised an eyebrow and looked around.

“What noise?”

“That—mechanical noise—agh—” Leon doubled over, hovering near the bucket in Talon’s hands, but luckily did nothing else.

“Mechanical noise,” Linebeck muttered, scrambling to his feet. He walked around the small storage room, listening for the noise. It was quite enough that he thought it was in another room, yet as he searched, it was sounding like it was closer than he originally thought. He stared at the boxes, moving them one by one until he saw a machine pumping and whirring, and he cheered. “This is a mechanical room! This is the ship’s engine!”

“Engine?” Leon asked weakly, and Linebeck frowned.

“Why are all these boxes next to it? Is this guy stupid or something? They could get caught in there!”

Rusl and Ammon walked up to him, staring at the machinery in front of them.

“I’ve never seen machine work like this before,” Ammon muttered under his breath, stroking his beard.

“It’s a steam boat, just like my own ship!” Linebeck explained, stroking his hand against the workings. “Such a beautiful boat. And this moron isn’t taking good care of it!” He spun around, looking at the damp place. “I don’t think he’s ever been down here! It’s disgusting!”

“You take good care of your boat, Linebeck?” Rusl asked with a teasing smile on his face.

“Of course I do! You must always treat your ship with the utmost care if you want her to last forever! Obviously.”

“Linebeck takes care of his boat better than actual people,” Leon mumbled, and Linebeck glared at him, stomping to where he sat.

“And what the heck has gotten into you? This motion sickness has made you insufferable!”

“Why don’t you get closer and I can show you how insufferable I can be,” Leon said in a low voice.

“Are you gonna make out with him or something?” Benji asked.

“I think he’s gonna throw up on him,” Kass corrected, and Talon gagged, finally emptying his stomach into the bucket. The men all yelped in surprise, some moving away, others getting closer to comfort him, and Benji was clinging onto Leon without looking at the mess as if his life depended on it.

“Oh I’m so sorry Talon!” Kass wailed, resting his wing on his back.

Talon swallowed, his face twisting in disgust as he tried to recollect himself. “W-what part… of ‘don’t say those words’… did y’all not understand?”

“I’m so sorry, I don’t know what I was thinking!”

Talon sighed, knuckles white as he clung onto the bucket, until Benji reached for the bucket, wordlessly gesturing for Talon to hand it over. Talon glanced at the bucket, then at Benji, who nodded and waved it over, and Talon pointed at it, making Benji nod again. Talon nodded back and handed Benji the bucket, and the man also emptied his stomach.

“Alright, I can’t do this,” Leon whispered, standing up and walking around. “I’m going to conquer this, I’m going to conquer this, I’m going to conquer this—”

“You think walking is going to make it better?” Linebeck asked, and Leon shot him a dirty look.

“It certainly beats sitting near the vom—the… already eaten food that… they ate,” Leon stammered, wavering slightly and breathing heavily from the rocking boat.

“Well good luck with that,” he said with a smile, and Leon huffed, pacing back and forth against the floor.

“It’ll work, I’m already feeling loads better than before. I just need to stay on my feet the entire time and I’ll be free from this sickness! Just you wait, Linebeck! I’ll prove you wrong and I—”

The boat suddenly heaved, sending Leon landing face-first on the ground. The men all hung tight to each other and to the boxes, and the boat stabilized itself, leaving the men confused.

“Wh-what was that?” Kass asked, hugging himself, and Rusl walked up to Leon, who remained laying on the ground.

“Leon? Are you ok?” He asked, and Leon only groaned in response. Rusl put his hand over his mouth, giving Leon a thumbs-up. “Y-you ok?” Leon groaned again, and Rusl began laughing, giggling hysterically as he nearly toppled over onto Linebeck, who looked unamused.

“What is wrong with you,” he murmured, but Rusl continued laughing.

“You think the fumes from the bodily fluids got to him?” Ammon asked, watching as Rusl held his stomach in laughter.

“Must be a human thing to burst out laughing at bad smells,” Linebeck joked, and Rusl wiped a tear from his eye, panting as the laughing slowed.

“I-I’m sorry that was just so funny—the way he toppled over—” he burst out into hysterics again, sitting on the ground.

“I’m glad my pain is amusing to you Rusl,” Leon grumbled in a monotone voice. Another heave of the boat silenced Rusl though, and the men grew silent as they stared.

“Ok, something’s not right,” Ammon muttered. “Lakes don’t have large enough waves to cause this.”

“Do you think…” Linebeck started, but screaming appearing and getting louder above them gave them the answer they needed. “I think we’re being attacked.”

All the men jumped to their feet, sick or not, and rushed up the stairs to the door. But when they tried to throw it open, it remained closed.

“What the— ARE WE LOCKED IN?” Linebeck yelled, and he let out a string of curse words as he started searching for something near the engine. The men all nearly fell over again with several shoves to the boat, indicating that something was attacking them.

“What is that?” Ammon exclaimed, holding tight to the wall as the boat leaned, and Linebeck cheered, holding up a thin piece of metal.

“Now we can escape this place!” He cheered, but before he could get up to join the others, the walls broke down, water spewing everywhere inside the room as a tentacle slithered around the storage room. The men all yelped in surprise, luckily being too far from it to grab them. Except for Linebeck, who sat paralyzed as he watched the limb.

“Linebeck!” Leon shouted, but the man remained frozen, his face turning paler and paler as he clung onto the pick. The tendril got dangerously close to him, but before Leon could jump down to save him, Benji wordlessly hopped down the steps, running to Linebeck and shoving him out of the way. The tentacle missed Linebeck, but it snaked its way around Benji’s waist, and he was pulled towards the hole and out of the room.

“BENJI!” The men all shouted as the man disappeared beyond the hole, and while the men started to bang on the door, Leon hopped down to Linebeck who remained frozen.

“Linebeck! Get up, we need that pick!” He yelled, trying to drag the man.

“He–he took him—he—I—” Linebeck stammered, his tan skin pale and his eyes wide. But just as Leon got him on his feet, he snapped back into reality, turning to the door and sprinting to it with the pick in hand. “We–we need to save him! Come on!” With one motion, Linebeck shoved the pick in the lock, unlocking the door in seconds and kicking it down. He gestured for the men to follow him, his overcoat flowing with the movement. “COME ON! We gotta kill this thing!”

The men all grunted in response, leaping up the steps and reaching the dock. They didn’t know what they were up against, but it took one of their own, and it was going to pay.

[darth-aces]

Pining For Pineapple

Bella Ramsey x Reader

This is just a short story I wrote that wasn’t meant to be a fanfic, but I’m bored and I don’t know where else to share this story so I decided to nourish the gay Bella army with a new story. Anyway I hope you enjoy.

“Pineapple again?”

Bella asks as they picks up a silver tin wrapped in a bright yellow strip of paper. Before I could answer, their hand and the can make their way toward the basket swaying from their other hand. “I know you like them. We might as well pick some up while we’re here.”

“I’ve got a can or two in the cupboard already so I think I’ll be all right till next week,” I explain as I try to pick the can back up to return it to its original place on the shelf. Before my fingers could reach it in time, Bella moves the basket farther away from me.

“I think we should just grab one, in case you’re craving pineapple this week. Also, it might save us some time from coming back here next week.” Bella protests.

“Why? Are you so sick of me that you’d rather stock up on canned food to avoid hanging out with me?” I say teasingly, knowing full well that I’m the one who wouldn’t be able to go a day without them.

I watched as a grin emerge from their lips before they speak. “Yeah. You’re suffocating me, so I’ll have to buy as many canned pineapples as I can to feed you and keep you satiated while I’m away.”

To this remark, I scold them with a light smack to their arm and say, “You know you love me too much to stay away.”

“I do know that, but do you love me?” They playfully say.

I taunt back, “Not as much as my pineapple.”

We continue our banter with a side of more shopping. By the time we paid for our things and exit the store-the groceries in my hand-I noticed that night was approaching, and the clouds were grey and ominous looking.

We’re walking back to our apartment when Bella gets a text on their phone. I take a glance and it’s a message from a good friend of ours. “Everyone’s hanging out tonight. Wanna go?”

“Sure, but we gotta be quick. It smells like it’ll rain soon.” As if on cue, raindrops lightly fall onto our face.

“I think if we run, we can make it back to the apartment before the rain gets heavier.” My hand holding the grocery bag tightens as I nod, and we both take off.

I’m only a few steps behind them, giving me a chance to get a good look at them.

Hair, eyes, nose.

Then I see their lips. They grew as uncontrollable giggles slip out of their mouth as we run through the rain, and it convinces me that I now have heightened hearing and limitless capacity in my memory just for them.

Suddenly I feel my heart expand, and I am eager to fill it with the thing I’m craving the most. I’ve felt it before. The way my lips purse as I engulf myself in its sweetness, but I have to brace myself every time for the sourness that comes at the end. Despite this pain, I’m craving it more than ever right now.

When we finally get to the main entrance of our apartment, we slow down before getting closer to the door. The giggling had turned into huffs as we try to catch our breaths.

Before they reach the door handle, I say with the little air in my lungs, “Hold on.” They turn around to face me, and our eyes connect. Before I forget why I stopped them in the first place, I lay the groceries down by the door. Then I walk back into the rain just a few steps away under the warm yellow hue of a street light nearby. The rain had started pouring moments before we got here. Despite this, I still waved them to come over.

“In the rain?” They yell over the sound of the sky continues to pour down on us.

“Just for a bit, please,” I say.

They come over grinning, radiating, and ecstatic about whatever plan I have up my sleeve.

“So much for trying to avoid the rain.” They’re still taunting me.

We’re both drenched now, yet they’re still glowing; brighter and yellow now as they enter the light. I extend my hand as they get closer, and they rest their palm against mine, weaving our fingers together. My eyes are on them this whole time, with a grin I can’t seem to shake. Our eyes are still connected until they get close enough to place their other hand gently on my face. Immediately they use their thumb to caress my cheek, and my eyes fall to their lips like it always does.

I’m feeling it again. I’m craving them, and nothing can stop my concentration, not even the rain.

When I move closer, I ask them, “Is this okay?”

Bella nods, and they let out a slight chuckle. This only amplifies my craving. My smile gets wider and my heart beats at a rhythm I can not recognize.

Then we kiss, and I lose myself in the sweetness.

The hand already tangled in theirs, softly squeezes. I do this because I hope it can make the sweetness linger a little longer. It is also to brace myself for the sourness that will follow when it’s over.

When we do pull away, we laugh to ease the tension in the cliche story we’ve curated. It’s time to walk out of the rain, but my concentration stays on them.

I'm doing my best to savor this moment so I can store this memory away for the next time I'm craving pineapple, and I’ll ensure to ask them if they want to share it with me again.

[marthawrites]

The Arbor and the Dragon: Chapter 1, Betrothed

Aemond Targaryen x Redwyne fem reader

word count: 6.4k+

About: A realm upon the brink of war. Alicent reaches out to your father, Lord Redwyne, to marry Aemond Targaryen to you. If the union officiates, the green Targaryens will receive the aid of Lord Redwyne’s fleet. You sail to King’s Landing to meet the young prince, to weigh if this is a marriage you truly want.

Includes: Meeting and first kiss. This is fluff. Allusions to jealousy and possessiveness.

Note: Hello lovely reader! Thanks to randomly thinking of this song I got hit with a wave of inspiration. This story is different than those I’ve shared here in the past, and honestly I’m unsure of how it’ll take with readers. So this is me going out on a limb! In this story, to avoid the use of “Y/N” you are named Emeline. You are also implied to have brown eyes and freckles. Everything else is up to you to fill in however you like! But if you want to replace your own name with Emeline, you are of course more than welcome to! I have a few ideas to continue this story, and with this I’m garnering interest to see if readers would like to have a multi chapter series. At the end, if you would like more, please let me know!

read chapter 2 here

-

As declaration from Queen Mother Alicent, her son, Aemond Targaryen, was to be betrothed. With the events of the latter weeks, it'd become of the utmost importance to come swiftly. Who would be better to receive his hand than, you. Emeline Redwyne. Daughter of the golden island and Lord Redwyne himself: Lord of the Arbor, of whom had the largest fleet in the Seven Kingdoms, and one of the richest places in all of Westeros. Your father declined many Lord's – both young and old alike – proposals, esteeming that none of them were deserving of your hand, much less your bed. When Alicent's offer arrived, however, his mind finally changed. The prince, in spite of his condition, bore the blood of old Valyria and his Targaryen name would forever protect you from any mishaps that might befall, of that he was certain.

In truth, the young prince intimated you. And, quite honestly, terrified you – at least according to the tales of him. You'd never met him, of course, but news of him spread far and wide, and the Arbor knew of them plenty.

Aemond One Eye. Kinslayer. Black hearted. Rider of Vhagar: the largest dragon in the world. How were you to marry such a man when your own demeanor rivaled that of the golden sand you were born to? The wings of a thousand butterflies lived and died in your stomach a hundred times over during your trip to King's Landing.

The trip all together extended over a fortnight by sea. From your home you sailed to Sunspear, and from there, King's Landing. Luckily you'd grown sea legs at a young age, and sea sickness rarely, if ever, plagued you. It was the idle time that bothered you the most.

"This marriage will serve both us and the Targaryen's well, my daughter. You mustn't judge the prince too quickly on tales and rumors. Open him up and see what's on the inside. I think we will all be surprised at what lays beneath his exterior," your father said, picking up on your nerves the closer you came to your destination.

"What if he doesn't like me, or think me pretty enough to wed? He turned all the Baratheon girls down and they are lovely. And what if I cannot stand him? Find him vile and repulsive?" You dared ask, brown eyes glinting with unrestricted provocation.

Your father's hand patted the top of yours. Your eyes were his own, and while you goaded, he softened. "Then I will call it off. I would never give you away unwillingly and you know that."

You did.

During the final night of sailing, you lingered out on the deck longer than normal. Behind, the sea rest inky and smooth, and before you, King's Landing finally came into view with the naked eye. It wouldn't be much longer now. By morning time the journey would end and King Aegon would be welcoming you, your father, and the entourage who traveled beneath the Redwyne banner: an azure backdrop with a ripened burgundy grape cluster. Anxiety bubbled in your stomach and for a moment you thought you might actually become sick.

A roar like thunder cracked through the nightsky and interrupted your train of thought. “Dragon!” Someone yelled, neck craned back as he pointed in the direction of the sound. The gesture was entirely useless, however, for the massive body of Vhagar was impossible to miss; even a blind person could see the shadow she cast. Somewhere on her back you knew the prince sat, scouting and estimating your arrival for the royal welcome.

An entirely new wave of tension bubbled into your throat. You'd never been this far from home, and a yearning for its familiarity weighed on your heart.

You'd be brave; you were scared, and as such it was the only time to be brave.

-

“Welcome, House Redwyne, to King's Landing. Let us extend our arms in graciousness and offer all the comforts of the Red Keep to you,” King Aegon spoke with practiced benevolence, arms open wide to gesture over all the surroundings. His sister and wife, Helaena stood by him, as well as their children. To his other side stood Alicent.

“Thank you, Your Grace,” Lord Redwyne bowed deeply, standing head of the entourage of bannermen, guards, and you. “And thank you for letting us dock here during our stay,” he added. Straightening up he extend his arm to you in silent offering for you to stand beside him. Scanning the faces in front of him, prince Aemond was absent.

“We've been preparing a feast all day for tonight. As you can see, prince Aemond has yet to join us. He's –,” the King paused to clear his throat, glancing to his mother who gave him a look before continuing, “ – getting ready. He's taking your daughter's potential betrothal very seriously and wishes to make his best first impression.” Aegon scanned over you, then, taking in your sail-worn dishevelment. “I suggest the Lady does too, my Lord. There will be time enough to fix up for the first stage of this courtship,” he added, smiling with a little too much amusement behind his eyes.

Did he truly think you ugly? For a moment you wanted nothing more than to throw your shoe at him, and the look your father gave you stopped the dagger you were about to glare at him before it flew. Instead, you curtsied, “thank you, Your Grace. It's been a long trip and I would love nothing more than to clean up properly.” The smile you gave him was well practiced and not at all sarcastic.

“Beautiful!” He said with a single clap of his hands. “The guards will show you the way to your rooms. Supper will be at 6 o'clock tonight. Please, don't be late.” He made to turn, then, before his mother shot him another look. Clearly, King Aegon was still learning these proper welcoming customs. “Ah, yes, Lady Emeline, the Lord Commander of our Kingsguard, Ser Criston Cole, will let you know when prince Aemond is ready. Perhaps another hour or so.”

Alicent took over from there, and things went smoother as all of you were treated as royal guests. Your handmaiden, as well as two of Alicent's joined you in your room to help you bathe, dress, and make your hair. Three sets of hands were much faster than one and you were grateful for the assistance. If the prince really meant to summon you in an hour's time, you needed all the help you could get.

Your outfit for today's first impression was carefully crafted and selected. Donning the colors of your house, and jewelry to match, Alicent's handmaiden's were more than a little impressed by the end result.

Deep purple, the hue so pigmented it could have been black in the shadows, made the majority of your attire. It was a tie style dress secured to your waist by a belt of golden threaded silk, and a well crafted cluster of grapes sat at its center in gold plated metal. Beneath the draped fabric you wore a high waist skirt that brushed your ankles, and a corset which cinched from the back: the skirts were deep purple, and the corset was black with gold thread in the pattern of dragonscales. The way it was tied left the whole center line of your body exposed, concealed because of your skirt and corset, showing off a swath of your bare upper chest and middle abdomen. On your shoulders, to keep your modesty, was a silken mantle which wholly hid your arms when held right. Thick ropes of the same gold threaded silk accented the lines of fabric. A maiden's formal dress.

Your hair was carefully brushed, and at your temples it was twisted and wrapped around to the back of your head. A clip of gold leafy grapes held it in place. Aside from the two simple twists it was left to hang free, accenting your jawline and neck.

On your wrists were thin gold bracelets, and around your neck were three tiered necklaces in the same fashion, topped with a lovely choker of gold around the slim column of your neck. Gold earrings dangled from your ears, and when you got one final look of yourself in the mirror an entirely new type of nausea filled you. Excitement. In that moment you loved everything about yourself. An image of youth and beauty.

“Prince Aemond won't know what to think, or what even to say,” beamed your handmaiden, carefully twirling a lock of your hair into a loose curl along the side of your face. “Good luck, my Lady.”

Anticipation swelled high in your chest.

The last thing to don were your shoes. Simple things. Your skirts trailed all the way down your legs which resulted in them to be less of a statement piece and more of a practicality. Prepared to walk with the prince you'd decided on a heeled black shoe. Your toes were covered and the gold buckles were engraved with delicate grapevines.

As if on queue a knock sounded from the door. “Good afternoon, lady,” Ser Criston Cole said to your handmaiden when she answered, the door half ajar. “Prince Aemond is ready and waiting outside the great hall. At your leisure,” he said with a formal bow.

“Lady Emeline Redwyne is ready now, Ser. Would you show her and her guard, Ser Louis Payton, the way?” Your handmaiden asked politely, swinging the door open wider so you might step in view. Louis was outside in the hall, too, ready and waiting for any instruction.

“Of course. If you would both follow me,” he said, eyeing you. He was handsome, you thought, tall and dark with deep brown eyes. Despite his maintained expression of neutrality you could have sworn his eyes twinkled with more as he looked you over. The King might have thought you ugly upon arrival, but this kingsguard thought well otherwise.

Criston Cole led the way, you followed, and Louis stayed a few paces behind. Small talk was exchanged during the walk, and each step brought you closer to your potential betrothed. You struggled to find something to do with your hands and ended up folding them behind your back, lest nervousness sent you fidgeting.

"My prince. Lady Emeline Redwyne," Ser Criston said in calm commentators voice.

There, standing before you, was Aemond Targaryen. Your heart fluttered so quickly you swore he could see it in your exposed pulse point. Where you wore dragonscale stitching in your corset, he donned burgundy wrist cuffs. He stood tall, still, and perfectly poised in a posture of regale. His single violet eye drank you in, nostrils uncontrollably flaring as he took you in from head to toe; a sweeping scan that made you feel as exposed as if you wore only your chemise. Somehow, his shoulders squared even tighter.

Your dark eyes lowered as you curtsied. You held it for a moment before rising back to your full height, looking up at Aemond in his Targaryen blacks beneath curled lashes. "Prince Aemond. It is a pleasure," you said in a voice that was much too breathy.

It didn't go unnoticed.

He bowed formally in return, eye never leaving yours as he did so. "My Lady Emeline Redwyne. The pleasure is mine, that I promise."

Sparks danced around your person, aura vibrating as the true reality of the situation caught up to you. This place could be your new home. Targaryen could be your new name. A dragon could replace your grape cluster. Perhaps, one day down the road, the prince could be the father of your children. It all hit you so quickly that, briefly, you forgot everything about courting. Your lids fluttered in a series of blinks, mind racing to catch up to the tall, lithe man and his studious, unnerving gaze before you. "Your dragon roar was the first I heard last night. Even in the dark I could see her shape in the clouds. She is... marvelous."

The fine muscles of his brow and cheeks moved the barest fraction, wholly changing his expression. "Indeed. Would you like to see the dragon pit? Vhagar is too large to be held there, but, you could see the rest of the brood."

The natural shape of his mouth made him difficult to read, yet you thought you could see genuine interest on him. "I-I'd like that, yes," you stammered in reply. And, entirely beyond your control, you felt heat grow beneath your cheeks.

Was this his first test? You, a young woman who'd just admitted to never experiencing a real dragon before, being asked to go into a pit of them? His eye bore into you still, and you fought with every ounce of willpower to not fidget your hands.

"There's five or so hours until supper. Plenty of time for you to see a dragon or two up close," he said, turning his body in a gesture for you to join him.

You followed, dress swaying around your legs as you strode to him, beginning the walk shoulder to shoulder. Behind, both guards trailed silently along.

"I saw you last night, my Lady. On the deck of your ship. I've heard tales of the Arbor's maidens and had to see for myself," he spoke lower, now, with your closeness. So close, in fact, he could see every freckle splashed across your face.

Your pulse quickened. How could he see you so far down with his impairment? "I'm afraid I cannot say the same, my prince. My neck couldn't crane so high, nor could my vision make anything out with clarity." Your gaze turned over to him, then, interest sparking. "You must have the sight of a dragon to see so well with only one eye."

"All Targaryens are the blood of the dragon," he replied, shoulders and lips flexing with quiet pride.

Whatever type of test Aemond presented you with, you'd passed.

-

Returning to the Red Keep with thirty minutes to spare barely gave you enough time to freshen up for the feast. You wore only the hint of makeup on your eyes and lips, and that was easy enough to touch up. Same with your hair. The dirt and other gunk that'd settled into your silken dress, however? That would take more time than currently allowed to attend to – nothing your handmaiden couldn't touch up until then, making you as presentable as a midsummer lily.

When King Aegon said they'd been preparing the feast all day, he wasn't lying. The entire meal consisted of multiple courses. Salmon, pike, and oysters were the selection from the sea, and venison, chicken, and pigeon pie was the selection from the land. Fresh breads, various fruits, cheeses, and slow cooked onions rounded the protein. And, perhaps the star of the feast? A barrel of your father's finest reds.

"If this wine continues to be in supply once my brother and your daughter are married, Lord Redwyne, I say we wed them tomorrow," Aegon declared, holding his goblet up in Lord Redwyne's direction, cheeks colored with the stuff and smiling more genuine than this afternoon.

Your father shared a laugh with Alicent at that, their eyes stealing glances to you and Aemond as you sat in quiet conversation together.

Truthfully, you hadn't stopped thinking about the prince since the moment you saw him. The adventure to the dragon pit had been just that, and infatuation had already begun to sink its claws into you. You'd talked off and on the whole way, him showing and explaining things to you from the architecture, to the history, to the people who built it. You were fascinated. That's not even including the dragons!

On the return journey, Aemond offered you his arm to hold. You accepted and dared to trace little circles into his bicep as you walked in silence. It was a tense silence, and you often caught him glancing at your ministration, body tensing as if to keep himself from pulling away. In the back of your mind you wondered how often prince Aemond experienced touches in such a manner – if ever.

“It seems my brother is already in love. He's hardly touched his food nor given any of his family his attention since arriving,” said Aegon, the wine loosening his lips and judgment.

“Not love, brother. Interest. Something you pay your dear wife little of. Our sweet Helaena would probably fall out of her chair if you gave her even half of what I'm conversing with Lady Redwyne,” Aemond replied, eye level on the King who was first his brother.

Helaena sighed, then, pretty eyes far away even as she spoke. “It's true. You're quite lucky, Emeline. I can only hope Aemond will be more fulfilling to you than Aegon to I,” her voice had a sort of etherealness to it, dreamy in the way it rolled off her tongue – haunting, even.

A few quiet laughs broke through the mealtime clatter, and Alicent blinked in a way only a mother who couldn't believe the lawlessness of her children at a feast entertaining royal guests could. “Let us eat and push aside such chatter,” she said, a well aimed glare shot to her sons. “This vintage is lovely, Lord Redwyne. A true gift for tonight.” She paused to beckon a servant over. “Anika, dear, fill Aemond's cup, please. I don't believe he's had any yet.”

At Anika's summoning she strode over on silent feet, readying to obey the Queen Mother. You put your hand over his cup, however, looking to the girl with an apologetic smile. “Allow me to, please. If my father cannot be the one to pour, then I see it only right that I do– since it's a gift from our House. Thank you,” you added the latter as a second thought, prickling at the idea of another woman filling his cup. Grabbing a nearby pitcher you tipped it into the goblet you'd just been covering. Its aromatics wafted up as you did so. “My prince,” you said softly, turning your gaze to his own to find it already on you, unseeing of anyone else around.

Truthfully, Aemond had hardly ate despite some of his favorite foods being served tonight, and hardly drank despite the wine being some of the best in the world, because nerves had been gnawing at him all day. He'd flown out to see you last night because he couldn't settle in the comfort of his own chambers. This morning he couldn't even settle on what to wear. Never in his life had he fought such an inner battle.

Prior to today all he had of you was a painted portrait of you and your father. And, judging on your current appearance, it was perhaps a couple years old. He immediately thought you beautiful. Stunning, even. The portrait didn't capture your freckles nor the shade of your skin beneath purple and gold, and it was the last thing he expected; his palms sweating all day with your closeness. When you traced circles into his arm earlier? He had to will his heart to slow.

Aemond Targaryen was smitten. Nervousness turned to longing, and in that moment he was wholly jealous of everyone else in the great hall. When he heard Aegon laugh that stupid drunken laugh, Aemond felt entirely unworthy of your time. You smiled still, softer this time, eyes searching his, and it was of that smile that a part of him melted. “Thank you,” he said, finally drinking and allowing the flavors of your home to flood his palette.

During dessert, the only reason he ate the sweet, spiced peaches was because he'd been smelling them all day on your skin and in your hair.

-

Rain patterned on your window when you woke, gray sky untelling of the hour. You rolled to your side and snuggled the blankets up beneath your chin, watching the steady fall of rain through the window. It was warm in your little cocoon and you dreaded waking up if only because it was cold.

Somewhere in your mind you wondered if prince Aemond was also cold... or if he kept and slept warm by himself. You could still feel his arm beneath your hand yesterday and he was warm there. You sighed, allowing yourself to feel the fluster of attraction at the white haired prince.

It was then something laying atop an unused pillow caught your eye; that certainly wasn't there last night. You leaned up on your elbows to look, canting your head to read the neat, unfamiliar scrawl on the page.

"Emeline,

I'd hoped to spend the day with you in the gardens, but it seems the Gods have different plans. Meet me in the library. Tea and breakfast will be waiting for your arrival.

Looking forward to seeing you.

Warmest,

Aemond"

A pang of excitement filled your stomach. And, at the same time, so did an inkling. How did he get into your room? He must have seen you sleeping. Did he watch you sleep? Your heart hammered in your chest at the idea, butterflies whispering to life in your core.

Maybe the letter was left outside and either Louis or your handmaiden placed it atop your pillow. That seemed more likely. The cold didn't seem too bad now.

Dressing and braiding your hair, you applied a similar amount of accenting makeup to your eyes and lips. Today your attire was less flashy than yesterday's and consisted of a burgundy casual dress with sheer billowing sleeves. Gold jewelry decorated your ears, fingers, and wrists. You wore the same shoes as yesterday, too. Your belly growled. You hoped breakfast truly was waiting.

The walk to the library wasn't far, and upon arrival Louis stood watch outside. Once inside you carefully latched the door closed behind you, turning your head and allowing your curiosity to pan over the library. Shelves upon shelves lined the walls, as well as throughout the room to create aisles. Parchment, ink, and leather filled your nose, and the subtle musk of dust accentuated it all. Motes danced quietly in the air, the gray sky outside casting pale ambient light to fall through the high windows. Not a single sound could be heard, and for a moment you thought the letter had been a rude jest.

"Prince Aemond?" You asked to nowhere in particular, voice seeming too loud for the quiet space even though it was barely above your normal speaking voice.

"I was beginning to wonder if you'd show up. It's a crime to keep your prince waiting. Surely, you knew?" His voice drawled from somewhere behind you, and you weren't acquainted with him well enough to know if that was the ghost of amusement behind his tone or genuine severity.

He sat in a bench along the wall, one arm draped across the back of it, book in the other, legs outstretched with crossed ankles. How did he get there? You swore you'd just looked over that spot and it was positively empty! "Either you're a master at camouflage or a wraith. There's no way you've been sitting there this whole time," you stammered, jolted and half amused at his appearance.

He smirked. He had dimples at the corners of his mouth. Dimples. How did you not notice those yesterday? "Couldn't see me the night of your arrival, nor here this morning. Are you sure it's not you who needs glasses, my Lady?" he mused aloud, not answering your question.

You rolled your eyes. A playful gesture. "Oh please. My eyes are fine, thank you very much," you crossed your arms beneath your chest, willing yourself to look at anything but Aemond. You'd been staring. He knew it too. "You mentioned breakfast. Where is it exactly? I'm quite hungry this morning."

The prince stood, then, a graceful motion that somehow looked ethereal despite its normalness. "I thought you might be. You barely ate last night." He tucked the book he'd been reading into the crook of his arm, and used his free hand to gently guide you down a nearby aisle. It led to an opened area, study table topped with a breakfast tray.

"If I remember correctly you didn't eat much either," you retorted, angling your jaw just slight at his call out. Why did his guiding touch make your head so dizzy? No other person ever made you feel such a way with so little effort.

He nodded, moving to pull the nearest chair out for you to sit. "I admit I was having conflicting emotions," he replied, body closer now, voice lower so you had to lean in a little to hear him better.

"Does the prince wish to elaborate? I'm afraid I'm not quite following. And, I'd hate to assume the worst," you said, looking at him beneath your lashes. You sat and he helped push you back in.

He smiled again, slight as it was. "If I had it my way last night, my Lady, I'd have dismissed everyone as soon as I saw you make to disobey my mother and pour my wine. I was jealous of every single person in the great hall for being in your presence."

Thank the gods you didn't have anything in your mouth because if you did you'd have choked. "You don't need to flatter me in such ways, my prince, it's unnecessary and quite honestly, shocking," you said, unable to meet his gaze.

"You'll soon learn I mean everything I say."

You blushed, unknowing how to respond to that. To say he was intense was an understatement. You found yourself subtly squirming beneath it through your shared breakfast of boiled eggs, bacon, and fruits, all washed down with a smooth, lively tea.

"Do you believe in merlings, my prince?" You asked once you had your fill, curling your hands beneath your chin as you looked across to Aemond.

He didn't answer for a moment, drinking thoughtfully from his cup. "Well, I can't say I don't believe in them. Merely, I've never seen one with my own eye," he replied, silently drumming his fingers on the tabletop in continued thought; gaze wandering musingly.

Your eyes lit up, smile reaching them as you stood. "Walk with me around the library? There's an island outside the Arbor named Mermaid's Palace. I'd like to tell you the tale of its origin, if you'll hear me."

"I'd love to hear it," he said, standing, holding his arm out to you in a perfect picture of gentlemanliness.

You flashed him a wide, pretty smile; one that had his heart instantly melting. Taking his offered arm, you stood and held to it, rubbing slow, soft circles into his bicep. And, this time, you closed all the distance between your bodies so your soft bosom pressed against his lean form; entirely intentional. You pretended not to notice the catch in his throat at the sensation. "Do you want the long version, or the short?" You asked with an arched brow as you both began an unhurried saunter of the large library.

"Long. I want every detail while you hold onto me like this."

Tension sparked around you both as you pressed a little further into him. "Then you shall have it, my prince."

And so you told him of the legend of the merlings. The merfolk's tale webbed far and wide from the Iron Islands, to Braavos, even into legends of House Velayron, and Blackwater Bay. Humans married, slayed, and chased them off alike. And it's said that the merlings from the Shivering Sea, with their pale skin and black scaled tails, were of the most dangerous kind, moreso than those of the Southern Seas.

-

Much to Aegon and Alicent's annoyance, prince Aemond slacked on his princely duties the following three days. He didn't care, though, all he cared about was you.

Those three days were full of rain and thunderstorms, and you two often snuck off into the library to share tales of childhood; even divulging in a few secrets. What mostly happened, however, was him reading to you from his favorite books – those of historians, philosophers, battles, and dragons – all while you rested your head on his shoulder, traced your fingertips over his hands and wrists, and let him lay his head upon your lap.

Each night you wanted it to last forever. And each night you fell asleep with him in the forefront of your mind, wanting nothing more than to see him again in the morning.

-

"Emeline,

Meet me in the gardens after you finish breakfast. The sun is finally out and I wish to see your eyes in the summerlight.

Don't fret if you cannot find me. I will find you.

Affectionately,

Aemond"

You were more excited to see his letter than you were to see golden light streaming into your room through parted curtains. Or, perhaps it was because of the sun you were so excited. Either way, you got ready as quickly and efficiently as you could.

The sky was already warm, hinting that it would be a beautiful day. You donned a long strapless dress of your usual color, and a sheer silken mantle clasped at the front of your chest by a golden plated brooch of your House's sigil. The shoes you picked for today still had a small heel, though unlike your others these were open. You accessorized with gold as was your favorite, and your hair was in the same twist style of yours and Aemond's first meeting. Carefully applied makeup accentuated the charm of your face.

For your morning meal you chose porridge, fruit, and sausage, and ate it as quickly as could be deemed polite before nearly skipping off to the gardens.

It was lovely this time of the year. Flowers bloomed in every corner, the heady scents of their mixed fragrances created a much different aroma than what you were used to at home. You slowly scanned over the place and took in all that you could see from these parts of the grounds. A few other residents of the Red Keep were out too, and you felt little shame at your curious people watching. Despite the expanse of the garden, there didn't seem to be many people out.

You began to daydream, steps slowing as you lost a bit of yourself to the wandering paths of your mind.

"Have I yet told you how lovely this color is on your skin?" Aemond asked from behind you, tracing the back of his hand along the length of your arm.

Goosebumps erupted on your skin. "Why do you always do that?" You asked, fingertips touching over the center of your chest where he successfully startled you. "Is it so hard to come up from the front?"

He puckered his mouth in an amused grin. "I could, but that takes the fun out of it. Your eyes grow big when you're startled. The pupil opens and gives you this delightful doe look," he replied, brushing so close to you that his breath shuddered the flyaway hairs in front of your ear.

Instead of waiting for him to offer his arm, you took it first and held onto it, using him to steady your already trembling fingers. "I don't think you've told me how you like this color, no. Do you truly? It makes me happy to hear."

"Very much so. I find myself thinking of you the moment you leave, and rarely of anything else while I'm trying to settle down for sleep," he answered in a tone you hadn't experienced from him yet, lacing his fingers in with your own.

Your eyes widened, heart going into overdrive in combination of his words, tone, and touch. "My prince," is all you managed to say, glittering with unsaid words.

He took advantage of the moment and the sun's angle on your features. He studied your eyes, the wholeness of your face, the way your pulse point thumped inside the shallow vein in your neck. You weren't even doing anything, merely looking up at him, and you were driving him wild. "Like pools of honey," he whispered, leaning in closer to you. "Your eyes in the sun." He dared to look down at your mouth, then, willing himself to meet your gaze once more. Slowly, he leaned back from your intoxicating nearness. "There's a wisteria arbor I've been wanting to show you. Come." He tilted his head in gesture to where it was, lingering on you before he turned to lead you both away.

When did the beat of one's pulse become dangerous? Because you were positively sure you were there. You dared not let go of Aemond's hand as he led the way, lacing your fingers between his more securely.

Tension lingered around you like a bubble ready to pop. All you could think about was the handsome prince showing you off to the lovely flowers; mind somehow racing and frozen alike at the memory of his mouth so close to yours.

"Here it is, my Lady. What do you think?"

If you'd been present instead of daydreaming, you'd have noticed it long before now. Wisteria hung down between the overhead lattice in variegated shades of purple and cream. Bees buzzed around, the workers busy collecting and spreading pollen in the morning sun; the sound a gentle low vibration, mirroring how your senses sung for the prince. Privacy surrounded you, the lush vine flowers creating a wall of perfumed seclusion: a secret in the sprawling garden. "This- this is the loveliest thing I've seen since being here," you exhaled, bright with a combination of excitement and wonder.

You instinctively moved half a step into him, and he mimicked the action, bodies magnetic. Lifting your hand up to his mouth, he gently brushed the top of it to his lips. "I thought you might say that, princess," he replied, eye hooded and sly.

It was in that exact moment you realized his eye was the same color of the wisteria. During all your time spent together during the last week, he never called you that. "Princess?"

"Of course. Once we wed that will be your title. My princess," he said, expression a mixture of intensity and mirth. "You're blushing."

"A-am I?" Blood roared behind your ears and up and down your spine.

"You are. Is that still what you desire?" He momentarily held your hand a breath away from his lips before kissing it again. Slower, this time.

You thought you'd actually combust. "Yes, my prince. Very much so." Your hand trembled in his. He noticed.

"Do I make you nervous, my Lady?" He carefully dropped your hand, faces now immeasurably closer without your hand as barrier between.

"Only in good ways. I think," you admitted after a moment, lids fluttering closed.

"Hmm," he hummed beneath his breath, long fingers gently touching your jaw. "You're doing very good for being so nervous," he whispered, breath tickling your lips before he pressed his mouth to them in a delicately needful kiss.

You soared.

Even though you already had him, you desperately wanted him. Blood prickled from your scalp, to your toes, to your fingers, and every single place between.

He still held your jaw with one hand, and the other rose to the side of your neck – scared that you might fade away into dreamdust.

You broke away and looked up at him, pupils wide amidst the affection. "We should have done this a long time ago," you said, breathless, standing up on your tippy toes to meet him again.

Aemond met you, matching your excitement.

The kiss deepened tentatively at first for you were shy in your movements, but once it did he tasted of sweet, tart raspberries, an echo of his last meal. And soon he didn't taste of anything at all, except of you and himself.

After that, time became lost in the gardens. Upon returning to the Red Keep you were both blushed with swollen lips. You searched for your father, eager to find him as the natural high of yours and Aemond's kiss willed your legs to move with extra purpose. Once you did, you grabbed both of his hands in your own. "Father! I will marry prince Aemond," you declared, beaming.

At first he seemed a little surprised by your excitement, gauging you with careful eyes. Then, he too beamed, squeezing your hands with a smile that shone up to his brow. "Wonderful news! Where is he?"

"He went to find the Queen Mother to tell her too! We split up just inside. So we could share the announcement quicker!"

"Let's go wait for them then, shall we?" He asked as he extended his arm to you. You felt like a little girl holding onto your father, practically buzzing with joy. "It's been a grand week all around then, ey?" He asked with a knowingly arched brow.

You only grinned back at him, also knowingly.

"Lord Redwyne! Princess!" Alicent called as soon as the four of you saw each other. "It appears we have a wedding to plan."

Aemond stood by his mother, proud and wistful at seeing her genuinely happy for the first time in... some time.

You and Aemond moved to stand by each other, and you were overcome with a wave of shyness standing before your father and Alicent as your betrothed snaked his arm around your waist, holding you to him.

"Let us join our Houses in the presence of all our Gods. With us dominating the sky, and Lord Redwyne's fleet dominating the sea, we will not fall." Aemond spoke to the trio in turns. "And the sweetest thing of it all? I get to marry the fairest maiden in all the Arbor," he added roguishly, kissing the top of your hand like the finest prince in any tale. "Thank you, my Lord Redwyne, for your daughter's hand."

-

That night Aemond insisted you two eat alone. After dessert he escorted you to your room, and left you with a kiss that warmed you all throughout the night.

"You will be the realm's princess, yes. More importantly, you will be my princess. Good night, my Lady."

-

thank you for reading! if you enjoyed, please consider a follow and reblog as I have plans to create and share more writings. 

as said above, I have a few ideas to continue their tale. if you would like to see more of this story, please let me know! this is my first time doing something like this and I’m feeling a little nervous (the good kind) about it.

here is my masterlist if you’d like to see what else I’ve created!