#the blue light is coming from a little neon sign i gave him that says GROJ

[hellenhighwater]

Update: brother says: tell your internet people- I’ve been making the car shiny and it is COOL.

He's correct. This is excellent.

My brother had lost the right to mock my deeply unwise vending machine purchase because he's spending his weekend driving to Iowa to buy a 1954 Cadillac limousine.

He doesn't have an explanation for this other than the fact that it's cool. And honestly, that's a pretty compelling argument

[encasedinobsidian]

Hi and welcome to my island! Peep my recent/ongoing works..

ain't shit sweeter ♡ father-in-law Javier Peña

In the late 1990’s, Javier Peña transfers to the DEA field office in Chicago, finally given a long-awaited opportunity to spend more time with his son while he adjusts to life post-Colombia. But in the midst of it all, he falls in love with the woman who resents his very presence in her life; his own daughter-in-law.

didn't cha know ♡ Joel + Tommy Miller

I fell in love with him. That much should be obvious by now. I can’t imagine that my recall of the last few months is anything more than a lackluster attempt at hiding the obvious truth of the matter — plunging into the depths of immorality and lying and cheating while I played house with his brother.

finally dawn ♡ original characters, seeking what is desirable spinoff

That abyss he circled, dipped his toes in, bathed in, drowned in — it’s not so dark now, not a bottomless pit of darkness for him to fall back into or get drawn into by claws scratching at his skin. Someone gave him a lantern somewhere along the line, lit up the space around him so that he could see what rock bottom really was. And he was there alone, don’t get it twisted — he sat with his arms around his knees and looked around to see that there was nobody there but him. And he still sits there sometimes. Every dark evening when Mia is asleep under his covers and he’s leaning over the kitchen island, eating the marshmallow-less Lucky Charms while the wind rustles in the trees of his backyard and he thinks back on a year ago. His chest tightens at the thought of being back there, in the house that didn’t feel like it belonged to him or his ex-wife.

seeking what is desirable ♡ Joel Miller

extras: lasagna I taralli I time away

Naomi is married, Joel is married, and they can't stay away from each other.

lovesick/evergreen ♡ PNW cop Javier Peña

Life seems to oscillate between underwhelming and overwhelming these days - the light pitter patter of rain on the window and the vibrating thumps of bass, the dark of the bedroom curtains and the flashing lights (pink, red, blue, purple, neon writing, blinking arrows), fuzzy police radio chatter and a hollering crowd. Most days it’s an empty coffee mug in the sink, two plates, the low ticking of the wall clock. It’s dad and then it’s Chief Peña, Officer Peña. Usually just Peña. Sometimes it’s Javi. He likes it when it’s just Javi.

amicus curiae ♡ sleazy lawyer Joel Miller

"In a pickle? Call J. Miller, at law.” J. Miller Law Office, it says in large, gold writing against a black banner above the single floor. There’s a dry cleaner on one side and an adult video store on the other, with a buzzing neon sign spelling XXX in bright red on the frosted window. Not once has it failed him to forge his own path. Self-made is what he is, the king on top of an empire forged brick by brick, one laid on top of the other, day after day, night after night.

Sympathy for the Devil ♡ swimming instructor Frankie Morales

“Who am I in your eyes?” Frankie asks, taking a step towards Hailey and circling her waist with his hands, pushing her over the threshold of his territory, into his space. “Some kind of Antichrist? The devil himself? Put in your life to lead you astray, make you sin?” His hands are on her back and the door is still open behind her, eyes adjusting to the warm lighting in his living room that stretches into the kitchen, the couch illuminated by the TV and the hazy air above the coffee table, the ripples of smoke coming from a joint halfway tucked into an ashtray. “M— maybe,” she murmurs, looking down at his shirt with her hands on his chest, swallowing so hard she hears the gulp in her throat, “They told me he'd be tempting, and that's all you've done… Tempt me, into— into adultery.”

smalltown shit ♡ Charlie Swan

"You’re a little young, aren’t you?” he asks, and it isn’t with a scowl but it’s something of the sort, a narrowing of his eyes and a dryness to his voice. It’s no better than a scowl anyway, his skepticism like a concrete wall between the two of you under the dim lights of the bar where Charlie is stuck with you, just where you want him.

+ more on my ao3

[dingertdongert]

Chapter 5

The next week went by quickly, probably due to your excitement, and before you knew it it was Saturday.

You'd found it really hard to make friends since upending your life as you knew it and moving to London. You were lucky to make such quick acquaintance with Steven, because outside of work you were really struggling to meet anyone else. Messaging people who lived several hours away offered very little solace at certain times, so you were happy to finally have a social reason to leave your flat during the weekend.

You looked at yourself in the mirror, evaluating your outfit. You had tried to dress as casual as possible, with a pair of fitted blue jeans, a dark, patterned knit cardigan and a white crop top. Though the weather was slowly transitioning into Spring, the nights still had the familiar, biting cold British air. You gave your hair one last look over and brush before leaving. You made your way down the stairs of your building, before being greeted with the freezing night air as soon as you stepped foot outside.

You marched through the damp streets, the bar only being a 15 minute walk away. Red and orange lights reflected up at you in puddles and off the damp pavements you walked down. Shops and restaurant released a warm yellow glow from their condensed windows. Cars and busses whizzed by you, blasting you with cold air that threw your hair in every direction.

You finally stepped into the heat of the bar, greeted by warm lighting and neon signs. American football jerseys hung off the walls, along with vintage, metal logos and TVs, playing different variations of American sports. People sat at worn, wooden tables on old metal stools chatting amongst themselves, people walked back and forth from the bar carrying drinks and the occasional plate of food. In the midst of it all was Steven, watching something on one of the televisions.

He looked very different from his typical appearance at work, with his unkempt hair tamed and brushed back. He wore a dark blue polo shirt and a pair of dark blue fitted jeans, with brown boots and a leather wristwatch. You definitely didn't expect this to be his out of work style, it was rather disappointing in comparison to the surprise of whatever patterned shirt he wore to work each day.

Almost as if he could detect your presence, he turned and saw you standing in the doorway. He gave you a warm smile and gestured for you to come over.

He led you over to a quiet corner booth, next to a window. 'This is very unlike you, you're early' you commented with a smile. 'Hm, what? Oh yeah, just finally had myself together for once' he replied with a smile in return.

You frowned slightly at him, just enough that he wouldn't notice. There was something off about him, the way he talked, carried himself, it seemed like he was acting as an imitation of his normal self. 'What do you want to drink?' he asked, making you pause your speculation.

'Um, I dunno, what are you getting?'

'Probably just a beer'

'I'll just get the same then' you say, shuffling out of your seat.

'What do you think you're doing?'

'Paying for drinks, like I said I would?'

'Uh uh, no way, you sit back down' and before you could even protest he'd left you in the dust with the sheer speed he'd walked to the bar. You huffed as you sat back down, and scowled at him as he returned, with two green bottles. 'Don't look at me like that, you weren't seriously expecting I'd let you pay' he said, laughing at the look on your face. 'Yes? That was kind of the whole thing that lured you out' you said, crossing your arms as he set one of the bottles in front of you.

'That's where you're wrong, the thing that lured me out is the fact you asked me, I didn't need persuading' he took a sip whilst watching you. 'You're too kind' you replied, holding the bottle up to him in a "cheers" motion before taking a sip.

You watched him as you drank, and you couldn't stop yourself from speculating. There really was something very off about him. You couldn't believe this is what he was like outside of work, but maybe the lack of Donna's presence allows him to transform in to a lot more confident version of himself. But you doubted it, the sweet, shy Steven didn't have the skill to hide a whole other side of himself. 'No offence' you noted mentally.

You passed the time chatting, you talking about your friends you had from your hometown, whilst he talked about his mum.

'That's so cute that she sends you postcards from everywhere she goes'

'Ha, yeah' he replied, you could see a hint of sadness in his eyes, but you didn't want to probe. Still, you had to ask, 'Are you okay?'

He looked at you surprised, 'What do you mean?'

'You just seem a bit off today, not your usual Steven self' you say with a shrug.

'Oh, well, places like this aren't my sort of thing. I don't go out too much'.

'Huh' you said. That answer didn't explain all of the differences he's exhibiting tonight, but you didn't press any further.

You spent about two hours inside, until it was finally time to leave. 'Which way are you?' he said, putting his hands in his pockets to protect from the cold. At least he was wearing one of his familiar jackets, somethings don't change too much. 'Just 15 minutes this way' you said, pointing to your left. 'Well I'll walk you' you opened your mouth to argue, but paused when Steven walked past you in the direction you pointed. He turned and looked at you, waiting for you to follow suit.

You walked side by side through the cold streets, 'You know, that food looked kind of good, I was starting to get hungry'

'Oh please, it was all just typical American food. Grease and carbs, the only seasoning used was probably salt and pepper' you say, rolling your eyes. He laughed, 'Ooo, sorry Miss Chef, forgot you could do better'

'I guarantee I can'

'Yeah? Like what?' You though quietly for a few seconds. 'I tell you what, I make banging doughballs'. Steven paused and threw his head back laughing, 'I don't know what answer I was expecting but it wasn't that'

'I'm serious!' you say, a fake offended tone to your voice, 'I make so many different variations as well, garlic, olive, pizza. Anything you could ever dream of' you say gesturing dramatically. He nodded, 'Those do sound really good, but I'm not quite sure I believe you'

'Excuse me'

'I need real evidence you know, to back up these claims'

'Fine, I'm gonna make a batch tomorrow and bring them in to work on Monday. I will literally make you eat your words'

'Free food, I'm fine with that' he said smiling at you.

He walked you up to your building door, where you shared a quick goodbye and 'See you on Monday' before heading inside. You puzzled endlessly over what could be going on with Steven as you made your way to your flat. Even his accent sounded fake, somehow. Maybe you were looking too into it, placing your nerves from hanging out into a different medium to distract yourself.

'God I'll just ask him on Monday, he'll probably be more open then' you muttered as you unlocked your door, and made your way inside.

[robinette-green]

I never got around to writing the story but I do have an honest to god fnaf animatronic self insert.

This is Fey. She runs the Star Dome at the top of the Pizza Plex.

5’2”

Glows under black light

Has up to date knowledge of the solar system so she can provide fun facts during the shows.

Has fruity, star shaped hard candies that have pop rocks on the inside for a fizzy burst. (Think Zotz)

The Star Dome is an enormous, round room that is made entirely of screens. (Looks like one big screen but it’s many)

Rides in a UFO shaped control panel above the patrons heads

Some times the screens short circuit and electrocute guests (that’s covered in the waver) 

The star dome has one or two video games programmed into it;’s system because it was originally going to be like VR gaming without the head sets but FazBear scrapped that idea in favor of a planetarium style attraction.

Fey is really good at the shooter game on the Dome’s system. (Uses it to get out frustration) ((this means she’s also killer at Fazer blast))

I had this whole plot line sketched out where Moon and Fey start off on the wrong foot and a prank war ensues. Eventually Fey steals Moon’s head and they end up entangled in the ball pit. Feelings are realized and they start avoiding each other until Sun’s decided enough is enough and locks them in a closet together. ((Sun and Fey have had a little romance going on through this whole thing))

The pranks:

Fey tweaks the fly motor so it goes just slightly to fast (Runs Moon into a play structure)

Moon scare Fey in the dark

Call me mr. Chuckles on a note taped to Moon’s back

Moon paints a face on Fey’s helmet

Fey swaps the Sundrops and Moondrops so the kids are hyperactive through nap time (she regrets this)

Moon restates the volume for the star dome too loud and sticks it there (just a bit too uncomfortable) ((he regrets this))

Stolen hat (chase ensues)

And below the cut is the small snippet that I did write out. I don’t know if I’ll ever actually pick this back up.

The star dome opened around a month ago in The Faz bear pizza plex. They situated it up on the 3rd floor by mazersize. Going through the doors, you enter a new world. The curved walls are all screens, and holograms are projected from several small devices hidden around the room. Everything working together to transport you into the depths of space, with stars and planets at your fingertips.

I was created to run the attraction from a little control deck that hangs from the ceiling disguised as a spaceship. I was humanoid in shape but only stood just over five feet tall. They had given me large, round eyes, short hair that was neon blue, and antennae with a cute little ball at the end of each stock. I was dressed in a purple jumpsuit, bright pink space boots, a neon green, fuzzy half coat, and a bubble space helmet. The helmet I only ever wore for guests, taking it off as soon as the closing announcement sounded.

Once parts and services had finished putting me together and powdered me on, they ran a few tests to ensure all of the data I needed had been properly uploaded and set me to work. The only reason that I had met the main four was because they came to greet me after hours on my first day.

Freddy had wanted to know if I was settling in alright and made me promise to come to him if I needed help with anything at all. Chica brought me some vibrantly colored cupcakes, even though I can't eat, and asked if I wanted to have a sleepover with her and Roxie sometime soon. Roxie brought me a signed photo and informed me that she would soon be my favorite. I met Monty last because he was standing at the back of the pack, and he just gave me a head nod when he was introduced, saying nothing.

Every night from that point forward, one or more of the four would come up to the dome once we were closed and ask if I wanted to hang out. I enjoyed chica's maze and racing on the raceway. I could get a few holes-in-one on the mini golf course, but my favorite thing was fazerblast. In every game we played, I was always the winner. No contest. I could even defeat Freddy himself. Being small was a definite advantage, and I was faster than everyone except Roxy. Luckily the others didn't get upset that I always won. They would either team up against me or try to take the number two spot, knowing they couldn't beat me.

I had been active for about a month when I finally asked about the Sun and Moon-themed characters on the walls in the prize hall. Out of sight, out of mind. I had meant to ask when I first saw them, space kinda being my forte, but we were just running through to get to the East arcade at the time, and I quickly forgot.

Chica and I were going through some new prizes that Faz had released. There were some new mermaid Chica plushies and some space toys that we wanted to get our hands on.

"I keep forgetting to ask. Who are these two clowns? I've never seen them around, but their pictures are scattered around the plex." Chica was elbows deep in a box of stuffed toys, sorting through the new merch.

"That's Sun and Moon. They run the daycare. Sun's a sweetie, but he hates leaving the daycare, and Moon's a bit of a grouch. He's around but would rather hang out in dark corners and spy on the goings-on than hang out."

I leaned against the counter, arms folded, and looked at the Yellow character on the far wall. That must be Sun. I scoffed

"Very creative names. We have a daycare?"

"Yeah! It's huge! It's connected to kid's cove, but the main entrance is in the lobby across from Faz pad."

"Ahh. Never been to the lobby… never had a reason to go down there."

"Well, that's why you've never seen them! You should go visit! They love getting visitors! Well, Sun does."

"Yeah… I think I will."

__________

I made my way down to the daycare the next night. Getting to meet two other animatronics that were also space themed? Yes, please!

The sign for the daycare on the lobby landing was small, but I was able to spot it easily. Pushing through the doors, I found myself in a dark hallway with a minor water feature and a much larger advertisement for the daycare painted on the brick wall.

"This is nice." Maybe I would come back here to think. It was quiet, and the water feature cooled the air nicely. Very relaxing atmosphere.

Once the daycare security gate lifted, I was bombarded with a happy preppy song playing over the overhead speaker. Everything was bright and colorful in this upper lobby. Walking further in, I noticed the slide in the far wall. A sign over the top read 'slid into fun!'

"Oh, cute!" The slide went straight into a ball pit in the daycare below. As fun as that looked, I didn't want my first impression to be fumbling around in a ball pit.

Vaulting over the partition, I made my way down the upper hallway, peering into the party rooms as I went. The murals painted on the walls were cute, but the rooms felt small and claustrophobic. Past the palm tree lights and down the stairs, I walked up to the set of massive wooden doors.

"Well… here we go." I pushed open the doors. It was enormous! Three play structures towered in the middle of the room, and colored mats covered the floors.

If my eyes could sparkle with amazement, they would be… maybe they were. I hadn't looked at my own schematics, and no one had bothered to tell me all of my functions. Only the ones that were important to my job had been explained to me, and even then, I still needed to figure out how everything worked on my own.

"Hooo! Hoo! Hoo!" Someone was on the balcony in the far wall. They jumped.

"NO-!" There was a splash of balls as the individual dove into the ball pit below. I sprinted across the playmats to look down into the ball pit for any sign of the animatronic. Were they okay? They have to be damaged from a fall from that height!

"Hello?"

"Heeeellooo!" I fell backward as balls exploded from the pit, a yellow animatronic bursting from the brightly colored balls.

"New friend! You're sure up late!" Coming over the bridge from the ball pit, he towered over me, yellow rays spinning. This guy had to be at least 7 feet tall, definitely taller than the main four.

"…Sun?" I asked timidity from where I was now sitting on the floor.

"Hoo! Ho! You have me at a disadvantage, friend!" Sun grabbed my hand and pulled me upright. There was a second where I was hanging in the air, tiptoes barely brushing the ground before I was set down. He held my hand momentarily to ensure I was steady before letting me go.

"I'm Fey. It's nice to meet you!" This large gangly individual still towered over me even while I was standing. I was used to the band's height, so it wasn't unnerving, but I hadn't expected him to be this tall. Taking a second to look him over, I thought it looked like that fall hadn't hurt him in any visible way.

"Fey. Are you new to the plex?"

[star-shard]

Summer Storm 

Elvis X Reader 

Premise: A crab shack by the beach. A raging storm. A night together.

Words: 1.2k Note: Implied age gap. Older!Reader (Both characters are fully consenting adults in this fic) Oral (f receiving, pretty mild NSFW)

You hadn't tasted coca cola off someone’s lips. Not like this. If ever you did, there was always a twist of rum off it. Not now. This man was all sugar, no liquor. Elvis could make an ice cold wind feel like a pleasant breeze. Right now he sheltered you from the coming storm.

There was word it could become a hurricane, vacationing families had already packed up or hunkered down in their hotels.  The two of you were wedged behind the crab shack you work in. He and his boys were looking for authentic sea side food. As he said it, it was his first time seeing the ocean.

You wondered if he said that to all the girls in towns like this. You wondered if you had eyes like his mother, that was a line you’d heard before.

But the way he held you right underneath the back wooden porch of this hole in the wall, maybe he meant what he said. He kissed you like he was trying to say something. “What?” When he responded, thunder drowned him out. He smiled and you could tell what he said next was something different from before.

“I think we ought to call the weather man, I got a perfect name for this hurricane.” He grinned. You bit his lip. 

Crazy man. You grabbed his arm. The upstairs to the restaurant had been used for ‘storage’, but dollars to donuts if it hadn’t been used for fooling around since you were a kid. That thumping up stairs was never seagulls like people said. 

Elvis nearly tripped on the old soggy steps after you. You caught him. Just a second of tripping but see him shook for a moment, that was alright. Like it broke a bit of the rock star, made this lunatic a bit more down to Earth. 

Fighting the door open to the attic was almost as hard as fighting it closed. He heaved. You heaved. Your clothes weren’t even off and you already sounded like two dogs ready to go. Elvis gave a shove with his shoulder. That did the trick.

“I love a man’s man.” You say with a sly little twang. But you couldn’t help but notice he might have banged up his wrist. “Watch it!” Just as he took a step back, you knew he’d just about step into old netting kept up here, and that’d really kill the mood. You caught him before he could fall.

You caught him right on the small of his back. 

How often was it that he looked up like this towards a woman? “How old are you?” Normally when someone asked that, you’d have gotten offended. But, odds are this man didn’t often roll with someone a couple years above his age bracket. Usually, his type only picked cherries but rarely admired the tree it came from. You tasted that soda on your lips again.

You stepped over the netting like a pro, kicking aside some floaty toys so that you could turn on some light up here. Odds are it wouldn’t last too long. The power would get knocked out later… The only source of light was an old OPEN sign. It flashed. 

“I should ask you the same thing. You kiss really eager.” The rain was getting loud. At least the low hum of the jukebox below was smooth. The Platters, they were a good group.

Elvis, with the low illumination of both the flashing neon and the flashing lightning, stepped through various junk, old furniture, enough to get to you. Because boy did he want to get to you. It was shame the roof leaked. “I’m old enough to marry you.”

You smiled at him. In this low pink light, you saw his face better than downstairs in fluorescents. You saw his blue eyes, his soft face and jaw turning as he went for your neck. Funny you came here to get away from the rain, yet water fell in a way that his hair was all in his face.

He leaned you down in a place where you used to sleep. The owner of this place let you up here sometimes when rent got too high at home. But this was different than being laid down by someone you were serving black coffee. This boy ate well. Boy. Did he eat well.

“Elvis,” you grabbed his head. “Jeez, boy, did a ring get stuck up in there? Looking for something?” You couldn’t help it. A giggle turned into a squeal. Shit, this man was turning you into a School girl. When you looked his cheek was rested against your thigh. 

He licked a stripe against you. You shivered. The storm. It was shaking the walls. 

“Get on up here now, I’m not dying with my pants down.” Elvis laughed. God, it was deep, right in his chest. 

Elvis smiled. That half moon grin, if the mood had been hit by a rocket. A crooked little grin. “Can’t die during a song like this, Ms. Summer.” It wasn’t your name. You supposed that’s how a traveling musician operated. They didn’t remember you, they remembered how you felt against them. 

“How come you’re not scared now? A little storm is something, but boy it’s picking up.” 

Elvis knocked the idea around in his head, crawling up to lay down next to you. Your pants were still down. Maybe he just wanted to look down at you now and then, admire it while he could. While the sky threatened to swallow the two of you up. “I pretend too much.” 

He put an arm around you. “The stamps, Great Pretender” he said. He knocked the wood floor next to you, the jukebox still singing Tony Williams proud just a floor below. Right, just singing along. You thought you’d seen him for real for a second, god he sure knew how to make a lady believe. 

The window broke. Elvis ducked like someone had shot it out. He grabbed down right onto your torso, you sat up to catch him. You pet his hair. It wasn’t black, half of that came off onto your hand. 

And yet besides all that he checked to see If any glass had gotten on you. “Just salt in my eyes,” you reassured him. For a while, you didn’t even fool around. For a while, you were just a couple of animals watching a storm by the sea. 

Elvis, Summer, and storm.

—

The two of you were woken up by a holler from the morning shift waitress, a few bandmates waiting by the stairs. You and Elvis had been coiled like snakes. At least he’d pulled your pants up by now. You’d fallen asleep indecent. You wondered how the hell he’d done that. You wondered a lot about him.

But, who were you to ask anything when it wasn’t raining hellfire. 

Elvis went off to his boys, you briefly wondered if you’d be looked back on as a conquest. If he’d tell his buddies he’d fucked you. Men did that sometimes. But, you had a feeling he wouldn’t. Just a feeling you had.

Elvis ordered one more coke before he left down. He asked you to kiss the bottle before he took the first swig. 

Asshole. Sweet man. You’d remember him. 

The OPEN sign flashed.

[backtothefanfiction]

The Brutal Hearts Club | Agent Whiskey Imagine

Based on the song Use Me by Diplo, Dove Cameron and Sturgill Simpson…

Word Count: 3.9K

Summary: Jack drinks his sorrows between missions at The Brutal Hearts Club. Birdie works at the Brutal Hearts Club. They become unlikely allies when it comes to letting off steam and scratching that itch. OVER 18s ONLY!

Warnings: drinking, pole dancing, smut, a little fighting, booty call, angst

A/N- I adore this song so much right now and with its slight country flair, whilst very much being a club song, I really wanted to use it to write a little imagine and the perfect character was our favourite cowboy himself. Also if you are under 18 and you decide to keep reading and it lands me in trouble I will take it very personally!

ps. I know I teased this a while back, I got busy.

Are you the brutal heart? Are you the brutal heart that I've been lookin' for? 'Cause if you're lookin' for love, you can look through that door

Everyone thinks it’s Friday and Saturday nights that are the big money nights. The nights of the weekend, where the old and young alike walk through the doors of clubs across the country, ordering drinks and dancing until 3 am. Staggering home with cooling sweat on their body that has no effect due to the copious amounts of alcohol flowing through their veins. But not The Brutal Hearts. Thursday nights, that evening just before the masses have time off for the weekend, when moral is low and the hope of days off are so close, yet still so far, that those most desperate say fuck it and walk beneath the big blue neon sign into the depths made for those with brutal hearts.

It’s the perfect place for a man like Jack who gave up on love a long time ago to shake off the jitters left from his last mission. A place he can block out the images of dead bodies he’s left in his wake over the years and be surrounded by those of the living. Those with hearts that beat strong and fearless, forever guarded and living for each moment like it could be their last (and the way he’s seen certain people do coke in the bathroom, it could be).

There’s four levels of the Brutal Hearts Club. There’s the main club room and bar. Neon signs, disco balls, an old light up dancefloor that looks like something from saturday night fever. This was, as the sign above the bar stated, simply for those who only had lonely hearts. Those who drank through their heartache and needed somewhere to just dance it off for the evening. Maybe try their luck and meet a partner to go home with. Where you can find all the popular tracks of the moment played by a DJ with his own lonely heart, still trying to chase Ibiza dreams at 40 something years old.

Jack bypassed this room headed straight for the big red leather coated doors in the back. For the rooms that weren’t just for the hearts temporarily chipped or lonely, but altogether broken and missing.

He reached a set of stairs, both adorned with light up arrows pointing up and down. The up arrow was placed next to another neon depicting a hand of cards, an ace of hearts clearly displayed. Jack didn’t like playing games. He was a simple man, always had been, always will be. He’s fast talking, fast shooting and prefers to just get a task done. It’s got him in plenty of hot water with his boss over the years, but he wouldn’t have become the head of the New York office if he hadn’t been willing to do the things no one else would. The things only one with a brutal heart would do.

Jack headed downstairs instead. Where the shadows grew longer and the hearts felt more hopeless. As he reached the final steps to yet another set of double doors, adorned with cracked red leather, he felt the bass grow stronger, like a defibrillator attempting to shock a heart back to life, the bass making the beating in his chest thump harder, trying to restart something that’s been long dead.

As his still chapped and scraped hands pushed open the door and his eyes instinctively gazed towards the lit stage in the middle of the room, he knew this was going to be no ordinary visit to the Brutal Hearts Club.

Hearts Hearts that break the night in two And arms that can hold you, that's true

“Break a leg out there tonight girl!” the tanned beauty behind her, smiled at her through the mirror as she fixed the fringe on her bubblegum pink wig. 

“Thanks Angel, you too.” she called back over her shoulder as the woman adorned in red lingerie with legs for days, made her way over to the dressing room door and out towards the main floor.

Robyn stared at her stage name, scrawled on her mirror in hot pink lipstick so it sat just above her reflection in the mirror, reminding her of who she was here. Where her place was. They didn’t use real names at the brutal hearts. That’s how you got hurt. But she always wondered, ‘how can you break something when it’s already broken?’

“Hey, Birdie!” a voice called into the dressing room, “You’ve got 2 minutes.” Liam, the 30 year old stage hand said as he turned the clipboard in his hand to check his watch. He didn’t wait to escort her, or even make sure she was ready to go, she was always punctual and professional. 

She kicked off her fluffy bunny slippers under her dressing table, reaching for the knee high pink boots that complimented her wig and slid her legs into them. Her satin robe hung loose over her silver bodysuit she wore over a pair of fishnet stockings and as she reached the dressing room door, she pulled a bejewelled cowboy hat off of a hat stand.

She stepped up behind the curtain towards the back of the stage as she handed her robe over to Liam who was in turn holding out a coiled length of rope to her. She nervously ran her fingers along the length of it as she readied herself. She looked to the floor as she let out a large breath as she heard the music shift, a short transition track mixed with the sounds of bird song. “AND NOW!” A voice called over the speakers and she clicked her heels together three times, a pre-show habit for luck she had gotten into. The music lowered, “WELCOME TO THE STAGE, YOU CAN’T KEEP THIS LITTLE CANARY IN A CAGE, IT’S BIRDIE!”

The curtain raised as her track began and she slowly stepped forward, her head low, hat covering her face to keep that tension for the Thursday night crowd, just that little bit longer, the coiled rope tapping on her hip. Thursdays at The Brutal Hearts was big show day. All the girls gave their best, most exclusive performance for the highest bidders. The biggest rollers. The broken bankers and card players who had gotten lucky upstairs and made their way down to their level to spend their winnings on some lucky lady. To throw it away again as quickly as they had earned it. Silly 20 something year old white boys who had more money than sense for their age and couldn’t get a girl to look at them unless they paid for it. Or older divorcees looking for a sugar baby now their Mrs has up and left them for being too much of a workaholic. And if that didn’t work and they felt drunk and invincible enough they’d head down yet another flight of stairs to either compete or just bet on the final fights of the night in the underground ring.

She slid down onto her knees, as she began to gyrate her body in time with the beat, across the stage floor. The younger guys whistled and hollered as they sat in the front row and threw ten and twenty dollar bills onto the stage. She twirled her legs around, before rolling onto her back, stretching her legs up in the air before splitting them wide. She focused on her reflection in the mirrored ceiling above her. If she caught a glimpse of herself enough to remind her how sexy and empowered moving like this really made her feel, she could ignore all the eyes on her who merely only saw her as an object to throw money at. A temporary high.

She stood and strutted her way to a pole at the front of the stage, she did a little dip of her knees before gripping the pole hard and twisting herself up onto it, her head tilting to keep her hat on. The aim with pole dancing is to make as many angled lines as possible. To flex and elongate your body, to create curves in places you didn’t realise could be curves. Occasionally you could hold things very straight for a show of power and strength but otherwise, you want to keep that essence of a moving wave as it rolls into the shore, graceful yet powerful. She twisted herself up towards the top of the pole, curling herself into a ball before dropping her whole body down the pole for dramatic effect, tightening her muscles and catching herself again at the last minute. She continued to spin low as she unfurled her limbs like petals of a flower, allowing her a small window in which to survey her crowd and pick her unsuspecting victim. That’s when she locked eyes with him. His sunglasses sat on the bridge of his aquiline nose, cowboy hat dipped low, his hand reaching into the pocket of his leather jacket as he made his way towards the stage.

She rolled herself off of the pole and onto her knees at the edge of the stage before him. She watched as he took off his own hat, placing a few hundreds into the band around it. He then reached out and took her hat off of her head and replaced it with his own, staking his claim, before walking away and taking a seat in a single, crackled leather armchair two rows back from the stage. He placed her bejewelled hat upon his knee before holding two fingers up to usher over a waitress to take his drink order as he waited.

So use me

Birdie finished up her set before making her way back to the dressing room to change. She carefully took her mystery stranger’s hat off of her head, placing the money that was tucked into the hat into a jar full of nicknacks and brightly coloured hair scrunchies on her dressing table. She then pulled off her wig, before releasing her long dark tresses from the wig cap that had been underneath. She shook out her hair before prying off her boots and changing into a dark purple, strapped bodice two piece. She then slipped her legs into a pair of black knee high boots and was ready to get back out on the floor. She grabbed her mystery cowboy’s hat, as she headed out the door, placing it back on her head so he would recognise her without the pink wig on.

As she scanned the crowd, she saw him standing at the bar ordering another drink, her bejewelled hat hanging off his fingers.

“I believe you have something of mine.” she said, announcing her presence.

His eyes looked her up and down as his glass of whiskey was placed on the bar top. 

“You give me mine, I’ll give you yours.” he played along with her, confidence times a million.

She leaned into him, observing the deep brown of his eyes, before trailing her eyes down his nose, then taking in his moustache. She couldn’t help but lick her own lips as her eyes finally gazed on his plush lower lip.

Her hand reached up to take his hat off of her head and place it gently back on his. He took a sip of his whiskey before he lifted her hat up and balanced it on her head. “This colour suits you better.” he says quietly as his fingers catch a few strands of her hair.

“Hey Sweetheart.” a young 20 something practically shouts as he sidles up on the other side of her. She aims to ignore him, keeping her attention on her mystery stranger but the sudden feeling of the guy’s hands on her ass changes everything. “Any chance of getting a private dance, beautiful?” his voice lilts along with his body. His eyes are glassy, he’s clearly drunk.

Jack watches as her face changes, her body turning towards him. He senses her rage.

“Sorry bud, she’s taken.” Jack proudly says, strutting forward to stand between the drunken douchebag and his new acquaintance. 

“Ahhh come on man. Surely we can come to an arrangement. How much do you want?” The drunk propositions.

Jack just stares at him as if to say ‘are you serious?’

“Or we can go halves? Make it a cheaper night for yo-” he doesn’t even finish his sentence before Jack is punching him square in the face.

“Oh shit.” Robyn murrmers.

“Come on Birdie.” Jack says, taking her hand with the same one he had just used to punch the guy in front of them in the face, pulling her towards the back.

She took a brief look over her shoulder to see the guy, bent over the bar top, his hand holding his nose wailing. 

Use me.

It may have been Birdie’s first time seeing him here, but it was clear it was not his first time. He pulled her closer to the back rooms before encouraging her to pick one of the empty ones for them to slip into.

“That was pretty heroic.” she cooed as she began to pace around him when they got into the room.

He quickly made himself comfortable on the red velvet sofa placed in the middle of the room. He watched as she crossed over to a panel on the wall, picking her personal private playlist and hitting shuffle. “With a punch like that, are you a full time cowboy?” she asked as she slid down the wall onto all fours and began stalking like a cat across the floor before him.

Jack couldn’t help but feel his pants begin to grow tight as he watched her ass cheeks sway back and forth as she grew ever closer to him. 

“Something like that.” he teased back as she came to a stop at his ankles. Her fingers ghosting up his legs before she split his knees, perching herself back on her heels as she sat between them looking up at him.

“You know they’re probably gonna come find you and kick you out for punching that guy.”

“Let’s just hope we both get what we want before that happens then.”

“What we want? I thought the whole point of this game is that you get what you want.”

“Come on Birdie,” he said, hooking his finger under her chin, his thumb turning to brush up her jaw, “you telling me there’s nothing you want from me?”

I don’t mind at all I don’t mind that you only call me when you want And I’m just glad you want me at all

She had let him book them into a hotel. She had broken her one rule ‘don’t sleep with the customer’ but Jack wasn’t a customer. Not anymore. Was he ever? He was enchanting and charming and there had been something familiar about him from the get go. “Use me.” he had said as he lay back amidst the pillows, his fingers only ghosting her skin as she rode him.

That was 5 days ago. He had made her put his number in her phone. For whenever she wanted to ‘use him again’ he had said. She swore to herself she wouldn’t, it was one night, but now she was sitting on her sofa, an uncontrollable need between her legs and the memory of a man she so wanted between them. The phone was in her hand, an eggplant and peach emoji sent over before she realised she had done it.

She was left waiting for a minute, watching the dots on the screen when an address came through.

And hearts Hearts that break the night in two And arms that can hold you, that’s true

To her surprise the building wasn’t a hotel, it was an apartment building. His apartment building.

The doorman let her in and she took the elevator up to the 15th floor. He had the door open the moment the elevator bell went ding. He was standing leaning against the door frame, arms folded, shirt sleeves rolled up. Neither of them said anything as she made her way into the apartment. She stood frozen in the entryway as he closed the door behind her. 

She waited in anticipation as she felt his chest press into her back. His fingers grazed the sides of her coat, his head dipping to nuzzle into the scent of her neck. He felt her gasp and her body relax as his lips brushed the skin of her neck. “What do you want, Birdie?”

“Use me.”

So use me, So use me,

His hands suddenly became fierce and firm, ripping her coat off exposing, to his delight, she was only wearing lingerie underneath. It made him groan as he turned her, his arms wrapping around her, his face getting buried in her breasts, as he kissed and licked at them. He lifted her with one hand, the other continuing to paw at her chest as she wrapped her legs around his waist, her arms braced tightly around his neck, keeping his lips close to her skin. She felt like she was on fire.

He swiftly carried her to his bedroom, dropping her onto the bed. She lay back, propping herself up on her elbows as he began to strip down. The sound of his belt unbuckling and being ripped from his belt loops only made the ache between her legs worse and he couldn’t help but smirk as he noticed how she began to rub her thighs together with need, her lips pulling between her teeth as she sized up her meal.

“Fuck.” he groaned as he raced forward grabbing the sides of her face and smashing his lips into hers. She playfully nipped at his lower lip and it made him grow hungrier still. She was being cheeky, she wanted to be punished, she wanted to be used.

His hands reached down for her thighs, his lips breaking away from hers at the last second as he flipped her over. His hands reached  for her ass, positioning it up high in the air as he let his hand come down on her right cheek with a loud crack.

“Mmm” she moaned as she rocked back and forth slightly before turning her head to fix her eyes on him. Those angel eyes, those butter wouldn’t melt eyes only 5 days ago, now her gaze was replaced with something else.

“God, you’re something else.” he professed as he leant a knee on the edge of the bed, grabbing her face and smashing his lips to hers once more.

“Fuck me, Jack.” she cooed as she began to pull her face away. For a moment he thought he saw something else in her eyes. It was quick like a flash, one second there and then gone again, just like that. But Jack was no fool, he would know that look anywhere.

Are we brutal hearts? Are we brutal hearts that break the night in two? 'Cause I just want this night with you I don't like the man (no, I don't like the man) I don't like the man that I am (you are) 'Cause I just want this night with you So let's take this night from black to blue So let's take this night from black to blue

He shook off the look. That reminder of the lonely heart within him. His own brutal heart, desperate to be used. Maybe that’s why they had both been drawn to the club in the first place.

He let his hand run down the length of her sides, fingers savouring the feeling of her soft skin beneath his fingertips until he reached her panties. He ran his fingers along the wet seam as she squirmed under his touch. He continued to tease her entrance as he freed himself from his pants, his hand giving his length a few pumps for good measure. He then reached out to pull her underwear down her legs, her head turning back to watch with her wanting, desperate look again.

He placed one finger into her heat, stretching her out and then another and her head hung in satisfaction as she let out a long slow gasp. He pumped his fingers inside her once, twice before pulling out. She let out a little whine at the loss, her head turning, eyes searching for him once more when he suddenly lined himself up and thrust himself deep inside her in one smooth motion. She gasped louder with the feeling. He slowly began to rock inside her as the flat of his hand palmed her ass before sliding up her back, his fingers hooking around the clasp of her bra as he pulled her up to meet him, his lips hungry for her moans. His hand clasped gently around her throat as he thrust up into her, she was so tight in this position.

“Fuck, baby.” he moaned into her mouth, her arm reaching behind her to wrap around the back of his neck in an attempt to keep him close, desperate for that human connection, desperate to feel something, desperate to be loved.

So use me So use me Hey

He nipped at her neck, his fingers teasing her sensitive clit as he thrust deep inside her. She met him with every thrust, grinding back on him as he pounded into her faster and hard. He could feel her growing tighter, her climax building, muscles squeezing around him. “Give it to me baby.” he commanded, his fingers applying even more pressure to her sensitive nub. 

“Oh fuck!” she cried as her high took over, he released her body from its hold, her hands coming down on the bed to brace herself. His thrusts slowed as she continued to slowly grind back against him, riding out her high.

When he felt her stop, he pulled out, his hands reaching for her hips rolling her over, encouraging her onto her back. He leant over the bed as she began to quickly shuffle up towards the headboard to allow him room and he spread her legs before reaching down to run his tongue up the length of her sex, collecting as much of her slick into his mouth as he could.

At seeing him do this her hunger returned. He positioned himself back between her legs and her hands wrapped around his back, fingernails grazing his skin as he thrust back inside her again. She was still so sensitive and it wasn’t long before she began to feel her next climax beginning to build.

“Come on baby, one more.” Jack almost snarled as his own hunger took over, his body leaning over her tightly, his fingers wrapping around her neck once more as he continued to pound her into the mattress.

“Uh fuck. Jack, JACK!” she cried.

“That’s it baby, say my name.”

They both came within quick succession of each other, she felt him move to pull out but she held him tighter, forcing him to finish inside her, after all she was on the pill she didn’t have to worry about a baby after this, she just needed to feel him. His chest on hers, his heartbeat, beating with hers, the pulsing of his cock in her pussy. It was almost a tender moment, but as Jack leaned back to look at her face he saw it again, that flash of pain. He couldn’t help but meet it with his own this time. Any other time it could have been a sweet moment, but this wasn’t that moment. This wasn’t that kind of sex. It was just two brutal hearts, looking to be used.

Use me. Use me.

————-/-//——-///———

Sorry it’s so late…

@musesofthenight @love-affair-with-fandoms @rav3n-pascal22

[the-fiction-witch]

The Hotel Job P1 - P9

Media IRL X 1960's Las Vegas

Character Thomas Brodie Sangster (Gangster / Mofia)

Couple Thomas X Reader

Rating Flirty Af

Concept Las vegas H

I sat nervously, scanning the motorcars going by many of them impressed with the sounds to match the styling. I sat against the little wooden chair close to the small wooden table I picked up my little coffee cup from its saucer and brought it to my lips in the hope the hot coffee would calm my nerves. I checked the time and saw it was time to go, so I finished my coffee and left a tip under the teacup. Picked up my bag from the ground and began making my way down the street.

I walked down the slightly dirty sidewalk under the glittering lights, the thick smokey air surrounding my every step, even though I was nervous I couldn't be impressed as I walked past the tall dancing lighting signs for hotels, casinos and other such sinful establishments. This place often reminded me of a beautiful Monet painting from afar you could see all the beauty and you have no other desire than to be part of it but the closer you get the more you see the madness.

I had lived in Nevada My whole life and ever since I was little the idea of the signing diamond among the harsh desert seemed like nothing more than a dream, every day the strip got taller, got brighter and more of an intense place.

But god knows I needed a job, and with my skills, I refused to degrade myself as a cocktail girl, much less anything worse.

So I hurried my feet past all the madness of the street until I found the place I had been looking for, at the end of the strip the dark almost black building sat, Like the other places on the strip it too had a large impressive flashing sign to catch the eye of tourists.

It stood tall beside the street with a Circle sign Purple with green lights around the outside and blue for the text;

'The Peacock Hotel, Casino & Spa'

Sitting on top of the sign was a fibreglass Peacock with neon lights for its many tailfeathers so in the dark it would light up with glitter and sparkles moving the feathers in a pattern from hung down by the sign to up showing off and back again.

I passed the sign and walked down the small grass and lamp-lined path up to the large stained glass doors.

Just outside the doors was a man in a grey maintenance jumpsuit with a large brush cleaning off the sidewalk, he saw me perking up moving the cigarette from his lips to behind his left ear.

"To Clean?" he asks

"Uhh no. umm I'm here for the interview."

"ahh" he nods going inside the doors for a moment, I just stood a little awkwardly waiting until the door opened again, he returned to his sweeping and a man in a black suit and green shirt came out.

"Afternoon, Miss Y/l/n." He smiled "Peter Hamstead we spoke on the phone," he says offering his hand I smiled and gave it a polite shake

"Yes Pleasure to meet you" I smiled sweetly

"Come on I'll give you a little tour," he says

"Absolutely" I smiled following him inside to a large impressive entryway with various stained glass windows and impressive corridors. 

"The original building here was built in 1953, just as a basic casino floor with some bar space. We have renovated since then first addition was the hotel upstairs, with Sixty base rooms, forty deluxe rooms, Twewty suites, five grand suites" he explained "And then the Three Penhouses on the top two floors." he says

"My my, that's impressive"

"We have three show stages, the large bar and restaurant west side. The Right side is purely spa and pool facilities. Then the garden and of course the Peacock habitat. The downstairs is all the casino and arcade area" He explained as he walked me around the place it was insanely impressive with everything you could imagine the colour palette around the whole place, I even got to see the peacocks but they seemed very angry and like they didn't want to be disturbed. After the tour, he took me to the bar sitting us both at a little table with some paperwork.

"I am sorry about the rush Miss, Our last account manager left in a hurry and given our renovations we are in need of someone who can look over the budget" he explained "It wouldn't normally be me either I'm just staff manager for the hotel and spa but the boss is away not back till next month." He explained

"Busy place then"

"Very busy always, these renovations are throwing us all over the place. Plus of course, the lack of revenue having the whole place closed for two weeks" he explained

We went over the job and my qualifications and such like all going over everything.

"So? If everything is alright with you. I'd love to offer you the position."

"Really?"

"You're more than qualified" he explained "I think you'd be a good fit here"

"Well, Absolutely I'd love to" I smiled, he handed me the paperwork and I happily signed

"Excellent, I'll see you on Monday" he explained

"Thanks so much I'll see you monday" I smiled 

I fixed my dress a little and headed inside immediately I saw alot more workmen than yesterday they were everywhere painting, plastering, and doing all sorts of little repairs. I felt a little out of place given all these workmen around until Peter came down.

"hi, Sorry Y/n it's been an utter mess today" he says "Come On I'll show you the office." 

"Thank you" I smiled following him up to the offices on the middle floor of the hotel, a long corridor of dark wood with blue and green striped walls, the corridor lined with doors but not a window in sight, without the hotel key fob you couldn't even get to this floor. He led me down the corridor past serval rooms with small silver name labels across them until finally, we reached one of the last doors and he unlocked it with a key and opened it wide offering it to me. 

I stepped inside onto the soft freshly cleaned dark blue carpet, blue wallpaper with silver-lined flowers, dark wood shelves full of black folders, a large blue and green sofa, chair and small table, a wooden coat rack by the door and a large desk with a fax machine and phone. A large window to the side overlooked the garden and peacock habitat. 

The desk was covered in various receipts and paperwork,

"Good luck." he says offering the key

"Thank you" I smiled taking the key and he quickly left I waited as the door shut and he went down the hall "YES!" I jumped excitedly I set my bag on the table slipping my jacket off putting it on the hook and starting to make the office my own. 

I did really like the job here. The first week was nothing but sorting, filing and stapling, noting and organizing until everything was as it should be. As soon as I was done I realized that... Now I don't have anything to do. As soon as a new receipt or a new invoice comes in I file it immediately and sort it all out and then sit for another four hours playing with my desk bird. I spent three hours yesterday just watching the peacocks in their habitat. I had even begun taking to wandering around the building for hours on end and simply return to do what little work had come through in that time. Going around the gardens, the pool, the casino floor, the arcade, the spa, the bar, the stages, slowly but surely I learnt every inch of this place as it slowly got repaired and soon enough I came in one day and the workmen were gone now staff and customers all rushed around madly so I hid myself in the office now with even less to do. At Least it was nice to see the place so busy with staff and paying customers even if it did give the place a thick casino smoke smell. I had even given up waiting around in my office I got so damn bored. I did always jump a little reminding myself when I saw the staff girls in there glittery blue mini dresses that they were staff and not just girls from the vegas strip, there seemed to be this constant steam of people coming and going the hotel never seemed to sleep at all. 

I had finished my work for the day so I went on a little walk around the casino, I saw the peacocks as I did almost every day making sure they were okay. I Watched the poolside yoga class for the hotel guests first thing in the morning. I watched people come and go from the main lobby well dressed guests and bell boys all rushing back and forth in this constant dance. I popped by the kitchens greeting the staff there and seeing the special for tonight which was 'Fresh leek soup', 'Cob salad' and 'Catch of the day'. I Watched the tech guys setting up the stage for some performance later tonight I didn't know who it was the sign outside already had the sold-out banner across it. I had avoided the gentleman's lounge of course but watched with joy as children plaid in the arcade and many had the highs and lows at the casino tables. I took my break time in the bar sitting on the small blue chair beside a sofa with a couple yet to check in as they still had their bags, I had myself a coffee from the bar when suddenly I noticed a large fuss at the front doors. 

They had of course been opening and closing all day but suddenly many of the staff men fixed their uniforms lining up by the doors as well as most of the staff girls, Suddenly the stained glass doors were pulled open fully and in stepped a sight indeed. 

He swaggered confidently onto the blue carpet in well-shined black shoes, a dark blue suit with a black shirt and a light blue tie, silver buttons and cufflinks that caught the light with a glimmer, a large black trenchcoat over him yet only his shoulders as he had not slipped his arms inside, a smirk across his lips, he pulled off his white angled fedora hat with a black band keeping it in his hand revealing a well-fixed flick of blonde hair on his head, he dropped the hat on top of the blue and silver suitcases that were dragged in behind him by a bell boy, as he made his way to the centre of the room speaking with a few of the staff members. 

He was followed by a very beautiful girl in a speakeasy-style glittery green dress with peacock feathers coming out the bustle, a dark brown fur or possibly mink shawl around her hung out of her elbows but wrapped around her back, Her blonde hair pinned up in a tight style she too had the bell boys ladened with bags and cases except for the glittery peacock clutch in her hand. She stopped as some guests spoke to her and I noticed her signing things it was then it clicked I had seen her before, she was the face hidden behind sold out tape on the lounge and stage signs, no wonder she was being stopped. 

But him he came through to the centre of the room still talking I noticed he was talking to Rodger moving his hand up to pull off his old circular ray bands and set them in his pocket revealing completely his face. 

hu. Kinda cute. 

As I had finished my coffee mike from the bar came to collect my cup so I asked him "Hey Mike? who are these people?"

"Ohh. That's the boss." He says quickly hurrying off back to the bar. 

I hid myself away in the office not wanting to get in trouble not the boss was actually here even if I didn't do much more than watch the pool and habitat from my window until my door knocked.

"Come in" I answered 

quickly the door opened to see Rodger with a wide smile "Hey"

"Hi" I smiled 

"Boss wants to meet you."

"He does?"

"Yeah come on," he says 

I quickly got up and fixed my dress and my hair trying to make myself look presentable giving my perfume on my desk a spritz over myself before I followed him out of my office he lead me down the corridor to the large impressive door at the bottom he knocked twice before pulling the door open to reveal a large office much like my own but bigger with more shelves, more windows that overlooked the pool and strip, more furniture and really little else, but I saw the boss sat in his leather chair phone to his ear, the lady perched on the edge of the desk nail file in hand working on filing her nails while she had her mouth open signing small notes as if warming up her voice, He glanced up seeing Rodger and nodding to him not yet even glancing at me but his brow lowered and his eyes clenched as she did more notes it was very good but he was clearly annoyed by it. 

"Ava" he snapped 

"I have to warm up Thomas" she replied singing it to him purposely elongating his name 

"That's what I built you a practice room for" He replied matching her pitch "so stop doing it in my office" 

She huffed and jumped off the desk sauntering her way out of the office completely slightly pouting. 

He set the phone down and at last, his attention hit me, I suddenly felt so exposed as he looked me up and down a good three times leaving no inch of me unexplored by his eyes. I almost felt like he was mentally undressing me as a smirk crawled across his lips, but the words that left his mouth were not exactly what I expected

"Who's the broad?" 

I very nearly went over to that desk and slapped him!

"Our new accounts manager," Rodger explained 

"Really?" he chuckled 

"Yes." I snapped 

"Whatever so long as you can get that damn office sorted by the end of the week"

"It's already done, and up to date"

"yeah?"

"Yes."

"You're good" He smirked 

"I'm good at my job."

"Good. we need more workers like you." he smirked "Thomas Sangster pleasure to meet you" he says getting up and offering his hand I went over and shook his hand making sure to be firm 

"Y/n y/l/n, Pleasure."

"I won't keep you, get back to your office" he says sitting back at his desk

"Thank you" I nodded before returning to my office. 

I sat in my office dealing with some paperwork when my door knocked

"Come in?"

It quickly opened but I didn't glance up as I was busy with the work.

"I get this feeling, that you don't like me very much?"

I glanced up seeing my boss, Thomas standing at the other side of my desk I hadn't seen him much since he arrived at the hotel honestly I'd mostly been avoiding him "Pardon?"

"You don't like me. Do you?" He says sitting on the chair across from me

"Hard to say I barely know you" I answered returning to focus on the paperwork

"Liar." He chuckled "Go on."

"Go on with what?"

"You barely know me. Ask away maybe then you might not hate me as much"

For a moment I didn't want to humour him but my work was almost done so what else was I gonna do

"Have you always been the boss?"

"The last few years. Took over from my father"

"Where's he now?"

"He and my mother are off cruising around the Caribbean in the family boat. Or well one of them anyway"

"I see." I nodded "Who was she? In your office?"

"Ava?"

"Yes."

"My little sister. She acts as a lounge singer and performance act when we don't have anyone else in, husband works in the spa and runs the sunrise yoga for hotel guests"

"I see" I nodded

"Why? Worried?"

"About what?"

"Nothing. Don't worry about it" he chuckled

"Do you like doing the work?"

"God no. I do as little work as possible. Only reason I'm around as much as I am is that I damn live here"

"You do?"

"Yeah, penthouse on the top floor. I live up there when I'm here." He explained 

"do you have any interest in the business?"

"No. It's the family business. it funded my lifestyle that's as much of a shit as I need to give. Besides I have my... side ventures. They take up my extra time and let me get out of this place every so often"

"What sort of ventures?"

"You'll find out"

"These side ventures? do funds for them go through the business?"

"There interlinked. But I tend to keep that private from the business accounts."

"I don't mind doing them too."

"don't you?"

"No, give me something else to do. keep all the eggs in the same basket as it were."

"...Okay" he nods with a smirk "I'll get it sent over. but if you're going to do it you have to keep your pretty mouth shut."

"Why?"

"It's personal business. I'd just rather it be kept quiet"

"Fine"

"Good. I'll get it sorted" he says getting up and heading to the door "Ohh one more thing"

"Yes?"

"Lighten up kitten. your cute when you pout but you'd be far more fun if you smiled" 

I wondered the casino and arcade floor on my break trying to clear my mind for a while, I had kept an eye on this guy in a grey suit at the poker table as he had been winning a lot and the cost began to get high "Relax he'll leave broke" I heard behind me I turned and saw Thomas coming though from the bar his hands in his pockets 

"How can you be so sure? he's good."

"I'm sure kitten" he chuckled 

"you should keep an eye out for people like that, kick them out before they win too much. Could be a big hole someone walks out of here with that much money" I explained 

"Humm" he chuckled "You ever worked in a casino before?"

"No."

"You can tell. It's cute really how simple it is." he explained 

"what if he got up right now and left, he has enough to put a hole in the hotel's funds"

"He won't leave that table."

"won't he?"

"No." He smirked "Walk with me," he says heading towards the table I followed him and he took a seat at the same poker table he tapped the seat beside him so I moved and sat down too. Thomas took a card from his pocket giving it two taps in front of the dealer who nodded to us both giving us each one hundred dollars in the familiar blue and purple chips with the green peacock logo across them, the dealer dealt us both in on the next hand I checked mine and I had nothing but he didn't even check his own he simply bet half of his hundred dollars, I didn't bother this hand, the man who had been winning threw in a few hundred and he won making his pile and smile grow I glared at Thomas a little but he calmly smiled blowing me a little kiss as we got the next hand I had decent cards so I threw a chip in, and so did Thomas even though he still hadn't checked his cards the guy was clearly cocky as he put in a good thousand dollars but 

He lost. 

Thomas cashed in our chips and smirked getting up so I followed him

I followed him back across the casino floor,

"How did you know he'd lose?"

"Becuase he was thinking with his cock not his head. sure way to lose"

"But how did you know?"

"well, he was of course going to try and show off for such a pretty lady. and I made sure he lost Dealers know when to let people win and let people loose"

"Let them win?"

"They have rules kitten, who wins and who loses. he won't leave the building with more than fifty bucks I guarantee. The boys will make sure of it" he explained 

"But- that's cheating."

He chuckled "It's not cheating. It's looking after the house" 

"So the casino is cheating people"

"...Come on," he says heading through the casino I followed him through to the arcade until we reached a claw machine of full of plushies "Let me explain something to you kitten. About how our business actually works. Firstly do you know why the glittering strip of Vegas exists?"

"It's Nevada's a tourist trap."

"Correct" he says "But why? Why build a lavish sparkly city in the desert full of gambling and debauchery?"

"...I don't know." 

He smirked leaning on the machine "I believe, All humans need risk in our lives. It's sociology no it's primal. We need risk and reward it's why we like guns, rollercoasters and scary movies. When we have risk we fill with adrenaline use to be to get us out of tough situations. But now we live in office jobs and fenced-in cities, Health and safety police took all the risk of life away. But we still need it, still want it that's why theme parks and horror movies are made to cater to that mad lust for risk. And it's not even a modern thing we've done it forever." he explained "You grow up around here?"

"Yes. been here my whole life"

"Then you know Nevada, new Mexico, Los Angeles there full of old mining towns" 

"Of course"

"You know how mining towns got built?"

"People fine something to mine built the town around it"

"In short. First someone finds something to mine which will make money, he needs men to work the mine to make more money, and men come wanting the money, the bring their wives, they have kids, and towns establish. But when life's that simple you don't have room for much, these old mining towns made due with tents and holes in the ground till the payload starts coming. And you know what they build? Every mining town from here to Maine has the same stuff. Becuase its the basics what we need to survive. A job to work, to make money. A bed to sleep in. A store to feed you. And a saloon, where you drink and smoke and play cards. For fun and that's your risk. That's a cowboy's rollercoaster" 

"I suppose that's true"

"That's why Vegas exists. We're the whole countries saloon kitten" He smirked

"That might be true, but that doesn't mean you should cheat people"

"You ever play one of these?" he asks turning to look into the machine so I moved to the side looking into the machine through the thick glass the claw hung up tightly on its springs the bottom littered with plush toys, they didn't look the best quality but cute all the same

"Of course, fairs and things mostly don't play them down here them seem..."

"Impossible?"

"Yes."

"Clever girl." he smirked "These are for younger ones. or ladies. not as risky as the guys in the casino low-risk low reward. But it works the same as the tables. You ever won?"

"No. never"

"No, but you still play?" he smirked "That's risk, your willing to risk your money for the reward, in this case a cute little plushie for a few coins of loose change" he smirked putting a coin into the machine moving the claw around "but the thing is known ever wins a claw machine and in some way everyone knows that. but we all still play. We all think we can be the one to beat it. Our response is to fight when we are presented with something between what we have and what we want." he explained letting it drop and the claw didn't even try to pick up the plush

"see nothing, the machines are rigged. just like the casino"

"ah ah ah kitten. Not rigged. it is one hundred percent possible to put the claw in the right place to pick up the plushie it is possible. same as it's possible to get a royal flush or red 16. it can be done and while we all know the cards and machines are stacked against us that only makes us want it more." he smirked having yet another go this time the claw picked up the plush but dropped it before he could win I had to admit I held my breath as it picked up and lost it as soon as it dropped "Don't lie to me. the moment that claw picked that plush up you got excited?"

"I did"

"and disappointed when it just let it go before we could win"

"Yes" 

"And that's what keeps you playing. You're better judgment says that it's impossible to win, yet part of you wants to take that risk. And seeing it pick it up you were overjoyed that you could win, beat the machine and get your reward. Then heartbroken the moment it denied you. Blame luck. Blame the machine. but it's just business kitten. These plushies cost a cent each maybe less we buy them in bulk from some company across the water, there are practically worthless. And this is a pretty bit of plastic" he smirked tossing me a casino chip which I only just caught "It's not worth anything outside those doors. but in this magical place a throw of those makes you a millionaire, you can buy the whole bar drinks, tip your dancer big, get a suite for the night to live like a king. But really it a bit of plastic that you have decided is worth the risk of your real hard-earned money." he explained "The boys do exactly what the claw machine does, they let people win just long enough to make them happy, make them cocky, convince them they have a date with lady luck."

"Then the claw drops."

"The claw drops. and they start to lose. They won't ever win and the house keeps all the profits. people play until the risk isn't worth the reward any more. Whether that's five bucks in a claw machine or five thousand dollars at a poker table." he smirked going to head out 

"but if you always make sure they lose and end with nothing, why does anyone come back?" I asked

"The same reason no matter how many times the claw drops the plushie, you'll keep playing. Becuase a part of you says you can beat it. That's why you let them win first highs and lows just like a rollercoaster" he smirked coming over and putting another coin into the machine "What keeps it alive is the belief you can win"

"But everyone knows it's rigged"

"and everyone knows Vegas is a tourist trap in the middle of the desert" he smirked letting the claw drop it and picking up a particular black cat plush with a small blue bow "But this place is built to make you believe that ordinary people can do the extraordinary here." he smirked as the claw let him win dropping the plush down into the bottom "And Each time someone does manage to get there two cent plushie or wins a hundred plastic chips at poker it fuels the belief for everyone else that maybe they can win too" he explained 

"Even though they never will"

"Exactly kitten" he smirked getting the plush from the bottom "That's how the business works, and yes if ever you see someone winning a little too much be sure to let me know. Until then Enjoy the game of it all" he explained "Besides, the hotel and all the other endeavours help pay any house losses no problem" he says "For you kitten. I'll see you later" he says handing me the plush and giving my cheek a kiss before he headed off out 

I took the plush and watched him go, before returning my attention to the sofa little black cat with its crooked bow, and I couldn't help but smile. 

[lumariane]

I’m only posting this so Tumblr hopefully stops thinking I’m a bot. Don’t plan on being active, but who knows what will come?

Tw: Minor whump; child abuse; hypothermia

Home

He finally made it.

Snowflakes danced in the bright light of street lamps and neon signs as Reva shuffled along the empty sidewalk. He finally made it to the city written on the package, now all he had to do, was to find the address. Everything was going to get better once he arrived. He was so close now that his stomach filled up with butterflies again, but this time they didn’t come from a childish fantasy, from mere ideas and potential futures, no, this was real, he could almost reach it.

His tired feet and sore legs begged for a break, so the boy ducked into the next alley he spotted where he slid down a wall and sat down. Rest. Finally. It didn’t matter that the cold seeped through his clothes, it didn’t matter that he couldn’t feel his toes anymore, or that his lips have turned blue. Was he shaking so violently because of the cold or out of excitement? Both, the boy figured. With trembling hands Reva took off his backpack and pulled out a tattered plushie that once could have resembled a rose coloured bunny.

"Avery look! We’re there! We almost made it!" His breath rose like a little cloud as the boy held the stuffed animal into the air, so it could see the city lights. Avery. He was the only reason Reva undertook this journey. The only reason he had this faint sliver of hope that kept him going, that gave him the courage to run away. Avery, his best friend and the one and only gift he received from his father, his real father, who he was going to find soon.

Three years ago a package arrived at their house with Reva’s name on it, at first he couldn’t even believe that someone sent him a package. Inside were a brand new plushie and a card.

Hello Reva,

I just found out you existed :)

Your mother never mentioned you to me, a shame really! Funny what you learn when you decide to check on old acquaintances isn’t it? Anyways, I’d love to meet you, maybe we can hang out and chat over some ice cream?

—Hisada (Your dad)

Reva couldn’t believe his own eyes. His real father knew about him, and he wanted to meet him! He sent him such an amazing gift too! Just as the boy wanted to go and tell his parents about the fantastic package, his mother dashed into the living room, her face paled with horror, and a letter in her hand. Before the child could say anything she had ripped the card out of his hands, tearing it to shreds after skimming through it.

"We have to leave… we have to move, he- he knows…" she mumbled as she walked back and forth through the living room, frantically trying to breathe.

She hated Reva’s father, he knew that well enough, his mother would always mention how his golden eyes were the same as her ex’s. But could he really be such a bad guy? His parents always called him a monster and were scared of him, but would a scary monster send his son, who he never met, a gift like that? The boy carefully approached his anxious mother "But- but mom, what if- what if he isn’t as bad as- as you think? Maybe he changed- I mean- look what he sent as a gi-!" Reva couldn’t even finish his sentence before his mother slapped him across the face and pried the toy from his hands.

"Don’t! Don’t ever say anything like that again! Don’t mention him, never!" The woman commanded, tears welling in her eyes "He is a monster, and you will not meet that man! Understood?!"

He flinched and yelped at the impact "Y-yes mom… I-I’m sorry" tears rolled over the boy’s red cheek "Can-can I… ple-please keep" Reva carefully pointed at the toy.

"No!" His mother shouted with a cracking voice.

The commotion now drew his stepfather’s attention too, who immediately sent the boy to his room. Later that day his parents announced they they will move, Reva didn’t understand why. But that night his mother apologised and told him he could keep the plushie after all. However, when they gave it back, it looked like they cut it open, some of the filling was removed too. His parents said that thy checked if something bad was inside of it. Reva almost cried again, seeing what had been done to the beautiful stuffed animal, but he knew he should be grateful that he was even allowed to have it back. That night he snuck out to the paper bin and ripped off the part of the package that had the address of the sender on it. He just wanted to keep it… for the future, in case he wanted to look for his father once he was an adult. The boy never expected that he would run away only three years later.

Reva hugged the bunny tightly, as if it could stop the freezing cold from seeping through his old hoodie. "We almost made it, everything will be better." he whispered faintly into Avery’s ear. No matter what his parents told him, it couldn’t be worse than at home, that was impossible. The boy kept telling that to himself whenever he began to doubt his decision, whenever he considered going back. It would only get better, Reva only had to get there.

He promised himself, and Avery that he would do anything to earn that better life. He swore that he would be a good and well behaved boy no matter what. Hopefully his father still wanted to meet him after three years. Surely the man wouldn’t be mad that Reva would just appear unannounced, or that it took him so long, right? How might his home look? Does he live in an apartment? That would make sense since he’s living in a city. Would he have kids? Reva would love that, he always wanted siblings! It had always been so lonely at home. He’d do his utmost to be the best brother there is!

Pictures of a happy family sitting around a richly decked dinner table, or cuddled together on a sofa and watching movies popped into his mind, making his blue lips curve into a smile. "We’re almost… there." Dull fingers carefully placed the bunny back into his bag and took out a faded piece of cardboard >> Hisada Masir ; 1245 Merito Ave << Oh how much he wished he had a phone to simply look up the way right now, but it’s okay, he could do it, he had already come so far. Frozen limbs began to move again, trembling and with rigid moves the boy rose. A thin layer of snow already settled on top of his hoodie as Reva stumbled forward on numb feet, every step hurting more than the last.

"…e..va…? …reva?…"

Snowflakes danced in the bright lights of street lamps and neon signs, as Reva gazed out of the car, his head leaning against the window. Savouring the cool glass against his blazing forehead. He finally arrived after hours on that overcrowded plane. In hindsight he shouldn’t have booked economy clasd.

"REVA!"

He flinched, hitting his head against the glass.

"Hey are you okay? You’ve been awfully quiet ever since we left the airport." His younger half brother looked at him with concern in his eyes. It made Reva chuckle. "I’m okay, just zoning out a little."

"Really? Come on, what’s on your mind? You know you can tell me!" Milo insisted.

"It’s nothing" The man smiled, "I’m just… I’m just getting a little nostalgic, that’s all."

"Good to be back home huh? Hey! Mom told me you’ll start working in the security and investigation department next year! Didn’t take you for that kind of person to be honest~"

"I am not ‘that’ kind of person, regardless of what you’re trying to imply." Reva rolled his eyes "I’m just doing paperwork there"

"Just paperwork? Really? Well I didn’t take you for such a dweeb either" The younger one teased, almost missing a red traffic light.

"Hey! Eyes on the road!” Reva shook his head “Once you reach my age and monthly income then we’ll talk pipsqueak. Anyways, how’s college?"

@a-crumb-of-whump

[girlkisser13]

pink pony club

"god, what have you done?" "you're a pink pony girl" "and you dance at the club" "oh, mama, i'm just having fun" "on the stage in my heels" "it's where i belong, down at the pink pony club"

pairings: cowboy!dick grayson x city girl!reader

warnings/tags: none. tooth rotting fluff.

summary: "save a horse, ride a cowboy."

the vibrant neon lights of gotham city flickered overhead as you stepped out of the cab and onto the cracked sidewalk. your heels clicked against the pavement, the sound foreign in this gritty city, so different from the polished streets of metropolis. you tugged at the hem of your dress, already feeling slightly out of place in the leather-jacketed crowd milling about outside the bar. a few people glanced your way, curiosity in their eyes, but you paid them no mind. after all, you were here for one reason— barbara gordon.

"relax," barbara said, looping her arm through yours as she walked you toward the entrance of the club. "you look like you're about to bolt. it's not that bad."

"i feel like i just stepped onto the set of some western horror movie," you replied with a nervous laugh. "my mom would kill me if she knew i was in a place like this."

barbara smirked, "your mom doesn't need to know. besides, it's called the pink pony club. how bad can it be?"

you glanced up at the sign flashing in a garish shade of pink. "the pink pony club? really?"

she shrugged. "it's an old gotham staple. trust me, by the end of the night, you'll be glad i brought you here. come on, you’re always so uptight. it’s time you loosened up a little. city girls can be fun, too."

you sighed but followed her inside, the door swinging shut behind you with a dull thud. the interior was dimly lit, the kind of place that seemed to thrive on shadow and secrets. music thrummed from every corner, the beat heavy and slow, and the scent of whiskey hung thick in the air. your heels sank slightly into the sticky floor, but you did your best to ignore it. you tugged at the collar of your jacket, feeling slightly claustrophobic in the dim room, surrounded by locals dressed in leather, denim, and boots.

barbara gave you a reassuring smile. "trust me, this is going to be fun."

you weren't so sure, but before you could say anything, your gaze was drawn across the room to a man standing at the bar. tall, broad-shouldered, and wearing a black cowboy hat tipped low over his face, he cut an impressive figure. his shirt was buttoned down to reveal just a hint of his toned chest, and his jeans hung low on his hips, completed with a heavy belt buckle and boots that looked worn from years of use.

he caught your stare and tilted his head up slightly, giving you a full view of his face. dark hair curled out from beneath his hat, and his blue eyes glinted with something unreadable. he looked like trouble. the kind of trouble your mother warned you about back in metropolis.

"two drinks," the bartender said, sliding a couple of glasses across the bar toward you. you blinked, confused.

"excuse me?"

"from the gentleman over there." the bartender nodded toward the man you had just been staring at. he raised his glass to you in a silent toast, and for a moment, you could’ve sworn he smiled, just the corner of his mouth quirking up in amusement.

you turned to barbara, who had been watching the whole exchange with a smirk. "who is that?"

barbara glanced over her shoulder and chuckled. "oh, him? that’s dick grayson."

"dick?" you couldn’t help but laugh. "are you serious? his name’s really dick?"

barbara’s laughter was louder this time, and she leaned in conspiratorially. "that’s what they call him. well, his name’s richard, but no one calls him that. you’ll see."

you rolled your eyes and took a hesitant sip of the drink he sent over, the alcohol warming your throat as you swallowed. barbara nudged you with her elbow, her eyes gleaming mischievously. "come on, let’s dance. i’ll show you how we do things here in gotham."

before you could protest, she grabbed your hand and pulled you onto the dance floor. the music was louder now, the bass reverberating through your chest as barbara moved easily to the rhythm, swaying her hips with a confidence that made you feel like a fish out of water. you tried to keep up, but the heels you wore weren’t exactly made for this kind of dancing.

still, you were having fun. the energy of the crowd was contagious, and as you let the music guide your movements, you caught sight of the cowboy again. he was watching you— intently, as if you were the only person in the room. the intensity of his stare sent a shiver down your spine, though you couldn't decide if it was from excitement or nerves.

barbara leaned in close to you, her breath hot against your ear. "looks like someone’s interested."

"i’m not here for that," you muttered, though your eyes still drifted to the man in the cowboy hat. there was something about him, something that made your heart race in a way you didn’t expect.

as if on cue, the man pushed off from the bar and made his way toward you. he moved with an easy confidence, his long strides parting the crowd effortlessly. he stopped in front of you and tipped his hat, his smile slow and charming. "mind if i cut in?"

you exchanged a glance with barbara, who gave you an encouraging nod. with a small shrug, you stepped back, allowing him to take your hand. his grip was firm but gentle as he pulled you closer, his other hand settling at the small of your back. up close, he was even more handsome than you’d realized, his eyes a striking shade of blue, and his smile— it was almost too perfect.

"you’re a good dancer," he said, his voice low and smooth, laced with a subtle southern accent. "you dance like you’ve been here before."

you rolled your eyes. "i think you’ve got the wrong girl. i’m just visiting. and i’m definitely not a dancer."

"oh? you could’ve fooled me," he teased, his voice thick with amusement.

you let out a short laugh, feeling a little more comfortable now. "i doubt that."

"i didn’t catch your name," he said, still leading you across the floor with surprising grace for someone dressed like a cowboy. "and i would’ve remembered a pretty face like yours."

you rolled your eyes again, though this time it was more playful than dismissive. "i’m y/n. and is your name really dick?"

his smile widened as he chuckled. "my legal name is richard, but you can call me whatever you want, darlin'."

you tried to hide your smirk but failed. "that’s very generous of you, dick."

he tipped his hat to you, his grin never faltering. "what brings a city girl like you to gotham, anyhow? ain’t often we get visitors from the big, shiny metropolis."

you glanced over at barbara, who was dancing with someone else now, laughing as if she didn’t have a care in the world. "i’m visiting my best friend. barbara gordon."

at the mention of barbara’s name, dick’s eyes lit up with recognition. "ah, babs. now that explains it," he said, glancing you up and down. his gaze lingered briefly on your heels, and he gave you a charming grin. "gotta say, though, the way you’re movin’ out here, it’s like you were born for this place. like you belong here."

you laughed softly and shook your head. "yeah, no. gotham is about as far from my world as it gets."

dick’s smile widened. "maybe. but the way you’re dancin’, it sure don’t seem that way." his hand tightened just slightly on your waist, a teasing glint in his eyes. "you ever thought about stickin' around? there's more to gotham than just this club."

"oh, really? and what exactly does gotham have that metropolis doesn’t?" you asked, playing along.

his grin turned mischievous as he leaned in just a little closer, his blue eyes locking onto yours. "me," he said, his voice low and smooth, full of confidence.

you let out a surprised laugh, rolling your eyes. "of course you’d say that."

before you could fire back with anything else, he reached into his jacket and pulled out a card. "tell you what," he said, handing it to you, "how about you come by my family’s ranch? we’ll save some horses together."

you glanced down at it. printed on it in elegant lettering was:

wayne ranch

1007 mountain rd.

and, in smaller, bolder letters at the bottom:

"save a horse, ride a cowboy."

you couldn’t help but laugh. "seriously? this is your business card?"

he winked at you. "it gets the point across. so what do you say? you come by, we’ll save some horses together." his grin was shameless, his southern drawl thick with playful charm. "i’ll introduce you to my brothers, too."

"your brothers?" you asked, raising an eyebrow. "how many of you are there?"

he leaned in slightly, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial tone. "enough to keep things interestin’. you’d have fun, trust me." the song was nearing its end, and dick gently let go of your waist, tipping his hat as he took a step back. "i hope to see you there, darlin'."

before you could respond, the music stopped, and dick flashed you one last smile before walking away, disappearing into the crowd. you were left standing on the dance floor, the card still in your hand.

barbara, having watched the entire exchange, snatched the card from you the moment dick was out of sight. she read the slogan and burst into laughter. "save a horse, ride a cowboy? i can’t believe he actually gave you this!"

you shrugged, though you couldn’t fight back your own smile. "there’s no way i can go. my mom would never let me visit some ranch with a guy i just met.

barbara gave you a look. "is your mom the fun police now?"

"she just wouldn’t understand," you replied, feeling your old reservations bubbling up again. "i mean, seriously, it’s gotham. and a ranch?"

barbara looped her arm through yours with a wicked grin. "oh, we’re definitely going. you can tell your mom you’re ‘saving horses.’ it’ll be fun, i promise."

despite your protests, you had a feeling barbara wasn’t going to take no for an answer. and, honestly? you weren’t sure you wanted to say no. not after meeting dick grayson.

[kittyball23]

Home (an Incredibles fanfic)

A/N: I’ve been slacking off putting some of my fics on Tumblr, so here they all come xD

Summary: After the jet destroys the Parrs' home, their new place of residence doesn't exactly leave the best first impression on the family

__________________________________________ 

"This is our new house?"

Normally, Dash would be reprimanded for taking on such a tone of criticism in his voice after being offered something out of kindness. Now however, Bob and Helen Parr could only stand in numb silence as they observed the tacky looking building from the outside.

The neon sign, meant to look welcoming, flickered somewhat ominously at the rooftop, casting an eerie orange glow over the area. The motel itself was in a questionable shape, with paint peeling off of the colored doors, walls splattered with dirty stains, and a pool rather unfit for swimming with how much grime was floating around inside. It was certainly a far cry from anything Superheroes should be living in - even their old house, while mediocre, was a much more suitable place to reside in. But that, of course, was no longer a possibility, not after how the abode was so quickly decimated after Syndrome's jet had fallen atop of it in a fiery explosion.

Things were not that much better upstairs in their actual apartment, either. The interior looked as though it had not been cleaned in ages, with dust as far as the eye could see and cobwebs upon every corner. A fly or two incessantly buzzed around, and a lone cockroach scurried away quickly when the lights were turned on. The grimaces on the family's faces only furthered, leaving them speechless to offer any sort of comment.

But regardless, Helen tried.

"Well…." she began, uncertain exactly of where to start. "It's uh… certainly not what we used to have..."

Violet scoffed, rolling her eyes. "You could say that again."

Helen gave her daughter a look before letting out a sigh. It wasn't as if she could disagree. There was barely enough room for Bob's hulking frame, let alone a family of five Supers, four of which held a myriad of powers begging to be used. How she wished she could be like her youngest child at that moment, little Jack-Jack, who was powerless and innocent to the world around him. But upon taking a closer look at her son, she could see that even he knew this place was not top notch. His large blue eyes curiously looked around, scrutinizing, before he decidedly scrunched his little nose in a show of disgust.

"All right," she said. "I guess we better get to unpacking." There wasn't much that was saved, but what was had been stowed away in a few boxes.

Dash groaned. "Do we have to?"

"Yes," Helen replied sternly.

"How long do we hafta stay?" the boy asked.

"I… um…" The woman paused, realizing that she wasn't entirely sure how their living situation was to be handled. She had not had a job since Violet was born. And Bob had lost his over two months ago, with his only other supply of money from Syndrome's operation no longer being an option. She glanced over at Bob with the question in her eyes.

The man heaved a tired sigh and stepped up. "Well, Dicker said the Supers Relocation Program would be able to cover the expenses for now."

"If that's the case, why didn't we get placed somewhere nicer?" Violet asked, clearly upset.

Helen glared at the girl again, but Bob spoke up before she could say anything to her. "It was the best that Dicker could do, honey. The program… hasn't really been as active in recent years, and financially, they're uh… they're not exactly that well off."

The teen turned away, shaking her head. "Just like us," she muttered. Not arguing the matter though, she began to get to work, going outside to grab the boxes left just outside the door so she could bring them in.

With nothing more to say, either, Dash got to work helping his sister, making sure to give the place another once over before he went outside. Jack Jack distracted himself from the surroundings by chewing on a rubber duck toy he was holding in between his chubby little hands.

Bob and Helen in the meantime exchanged a look.

They both understood where the kids' feelings were coming from. It was the same feelings they had. But, it was the best Dicker could offer, and they had no other choice… not unless they wanted to end up in the street. And so, sucking in the rest of their resolve, the pair followed suit and started working to unload what they had into the empty space, hoping that it would look more homely afterward and, more importantly, hoping that something better was coming along soon for them all.

[thekingslover]

“Come on, stud,” she says to Dean, tugging on his wrist. “I choose you tonight.”

Dean flashes her his sharpest smile, playboy facade in place. It comes back on instinct more than desire. He’s played this role before. He’s stood in these same shoes so many times they barely have any sole left.

The neon beer signs are too bright, blinding against the dim overhead lights in the bar. The beer on the counter before him is full, recently ordered, and cold in his hand. The condensation puddles along his fingers, catching in the dip around his ring.

How easy it would be to follow her daisy dukes and cowboy boots out to the parking lot. So easy to brush the hair back from her bare shoulders and kiss her neck. Easy to pretend that’s all he needs. At one point in his life, it was.

But that had been before.

She’s too young for him, in both age and spirit. That’s only the start of the list of wrong things.

“Sorry, sweetheart,” Dean says, as gently as he can. She has a devilish look that promises a good time, and she’s generous to offer that time to Dean. It’s not her fault Dean’s already been claimed body and soul. “I hung up my spurs a long time ago.”

“Oh?” Her bottom lip pushes out, a tempting lure even to a married man. Dean gives her credit, but that’s all she’s getting.

He dips his head toward a tall table against the wall. Cas has both elbows on the tabletop, face scrunched as he taps his thumbs over a cell phone. Candy Crush has become his latest foe to vanquish, last on the list after a slew of demons, Lucifer, and God himself.

Daisy Dukes has no idea how outmatched she is. “That guy?”

Dean, not for the first time, tries to see Cas the way the rest of the world must - nerdy guy in an ill-fitting suit, wrapped in an old overcoat. Frowning at the phone, he has a little line between his brow. Must be a tough level.

But even as he’s trying to see Cas as she does, he knows he’s coming up short. He can’t look at Cas and not see the coat he carried around in his car for a year, the one he desperately searched for in the wilds of Purgatory. Or the blue tie that Dean’s shown him how to put on straight enough times now that he knows Cas does it wrong on purpose. Or the intensity of those eyes, smiting candy squares now, that when focused on Dean, make the rest of the world disappear. Or the love that floods out of him so deeply that Dean, drowning, almost believes he deserves it.

“That’s the love of my life,” Dean tells Daisy Dukes.

Her fingers unhook from Dean’s wrist, but she continues to stand there, looking at Cas and then at him. “That guy.”

Dean makes a point to scratch his chin with his left hand, flashing his wedding ring. She’s probably already seen. Probably wouldn’t matter much, most times, in a place like this.

“I’d marry him again tomorrow if he wanted,” Dean says.

She hums. Her hands find her hips and she searches his face. He doesn’t know what she’s looking for, but after a moment, her smile softens and her shoulders slump.

“Lucky,” she says and wanders off. It doesn’t take her long to find another guy at the bar. With the way this one leans into her, she’s found someone more willing.

Dean plucks the beer from the counter and heads back to the table. He places it with a thunk in front of Cas. Cas moves a couple more candy pieces and then turns off the screen.

“You win, angel?” Dean asks. He takes a swig from his own beer which he left behind to refill Cas. It’s warm now, but he swallows it down.

“They keep adding new levels.” Cas glares at where he’s placed the phone, screen down on the corner of the table. “I’m beginning to think victory is unobtainable.”

“Come on, Cas,” Dean teases. His smile is easy, the playboy facade long gone. “You’re no quitter.”

Fire burns hot in Cas’s eyes. If he had any angel mojo left, the phone no doubt would burst into flames. “I will win.” He says it like a vow, with the same intensity he gave fighting monsters, or when he took Dean’s hand in front of a judge and promised to love him beyond even death.

“Cas,” Dean says, and Cas looks up. The fire dims a little, but only so love can replace it.

“Yes, Dean?”

Now that he has Cas’s full attention, Dean hesitates. What seemed like a good idea a moment ago, he now worries Cas won’t like.

Cas, patient always for Dean, maybe too much, sits and waits. Dean knows he’ll wait all night.

Dean won’t make him do that again. “I was thinking...”

Cas starts to smile. “A dangerous prospect.” He’s teasing, and it takes the edge off. He probably did that on purpose. He knows Dean sometimes better than Dean knows himself.

Dean winks at first, returning the smile, but then he leans forward and takes Cas’s hands in his. He wants him to know he’s serious.

“Dean?”

“Marry me,” Dean says.

“Dean.” Cas blinks. “We are already married.”

“Yeah, yeah, I know, but...” They married in a rush, speeding to the Courthouse five minutes after Dean had asked the last time. Sam sat in the back in his pajamas. Dean wore a Zeppelin t-shirt. It had been a whirlwind and perfect but. But. “I kinda want to do it right, you know? With everyone there.”

Cas watches him, silent for a heartbeat and two. Then he starts to smile again, that quiet, secret smile he shares a lot with Dean, and Dean knows he has him.

“We could get new suits,” Dean says. “Have a big party.”

“I would like that, Dean.”

“Yeah?”

Cas squeezes Dean’s hand. “Yes,” he says, a vow.

At the door, Daisy Dukes is pulling Mr. Willing into the parking lot. He’s got a smile like he won the lottery. For tonight, maybe he has.

But Dean? Here with Cas, Dean hits the jackpot everyday.

“I love you, Cas.” The words come so easily, Dean can’t believe he ever had trouble saying them.

Cas brings Dean’s hand to his mouth. He kisses each knuckle and then the ring. “And I, you.”

[gaypirate420]

Strong lad// Silco

Silco x male! reader.

Pt2 of the gift.

Taglist

(I will only open it for this series, I don't do taglists bc I'm lazy)

@sukurachiidee

@blue124th

@mamanaga

@a-short-ass-disappointment

Tw: hmmmm probably sexual assault.

If you asked Silco why did he decide to keep you, why did he gave you a room, why is he so gentle with you,

The answer will be simple, he doesn't know either, you have a mysterious aura that attracts him.

Now it's been only a day since you work for him, he is letting you rest because he doesn't see you on a very healthy condition so he wanted to make sure you didn't passed out when Sevika trains you.

You were exploring the bar, Sevika was watching you from the distance making sure you didn't cause any trouble, you decided to order a drink.

"What can I get you?" The bartender asks, you lift a paper that said the name of a drink Sevika recommend you.

"Alright, It would be ready on a wink" they left and you inspected the building with your eyes, the neon lights, how the people crowded and you bopped your head at the rhythm of the music, you were enjoying yourself when you suddenly felt a hand on your ass.

"Hey pretty boy, want a drink?" A much larger and muscular man approached you, you shake your head in denial.

"What? Do I make you nervous, pretty boy?" He was getting closer but your body was getting away, you shake your head again.

"You don't like to chat, but I will get you scremin', your head says no but I know that ya body wants it" The man spank you, you gave him a deadly look.

Sevika had enough and stood up to get rid of the man, when suddenly you grab him by his arm and you toss it over your shoulder, the man falled to the floor, he instantly stood up and was trying to hit you, you hit him once, right on the nose, then another one on the jaw, Sevika grab him and throw him out of the bar.

"um, your drink is ready" the bartender brokes the silence that was on the bar, your turned around with a smile and clapped from the emotion, you grabbed you drink and taste it, it was a little strong but you liked it, you gave the bartender a thumbs up and they smile in return, you decide to go upstairs to tell Silco about your little adventure.

Speaking of the devil, Silco was about to got downstairs when you run into him, he looks at your right hand, your knuckles were bloody.

"What happened?" You passed him your drink and try to act what happened moments ago, when you were delivering your award winner worth acting Sevika interrupted.

"He broke a man's nose" She said, Silco looks at you in shock, I mean you did tell him you were good in fights.

"We will talk about that later, Sevika we have work to do" you were drinking while you walked when a girl with blue hair stopped you.

"I don't recognize you" she got pretty close to you, she was scanning all of your features.

"Well tell me! Who are you?" You stay in silence, obviously, you were hoping she would get the message very soon, she didn't so you pointed to your mouth and make a no sign with your hand.

"OH! You can't speak, Oh wait, I do know you, Dad told me about you!"

"Wait, I have an idea, come with me" you hesitated.

"It's ok I won't bite" she laughed and grabbed your hand.

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

Later that day Silco called you to his office, you were nervous, you took a deep breath and knocked on the door.

"Enter" his voice was low, you nervously enter and you sat on the chair Infront of his desk, he turned around.

"Ah how delightful" He talk before light up his cigar.

"Before anything, are you alright?" Silco knew that the experience you had at the bar could be traumatic, and probably make you close even more, you gasped you grab some little rectangles made out of paper and you gesture him to repeat his question.

"Hm, are you alright?"

You lifted a card.

Yes

And another.

:)

"Oh how smart" he inmediatly recognize the little doodles around your cards, this was Jinx work.

You had two sets of cards, ones with words and another with emotions.

"Did Finn knew about your strength and skills?"

No

:/

"Hmm, why?" You grabbed the notebook Silco gave you to communicate with him.

I don't like him, he doesn't know anything about me besides my name.

Silco notice that you communicate your emotions through your eyes and hands, but mostly of the time your hands were Infront of your stomach and your eyes looked soulless and always wide like you have seen a ghost.

"Oh I see, Did he mistreated you?" You lifted another card, this one had a more specific answer.

I don't feel comfortable talking about that.

:(

"I understand and I apologize" He thought what to ask you, something that wasn't so personal but that could give him some answers.

"Why don't you tell me what you want me to know?" He was being extremely patient with you, you didn't know Silco that much so your only thought was that he was a very nice man.

You grab your notebook and took your time to write, Silco waited patiently, he keep smoking and checking his papers, you make some noise a little "Hum" Silco inmediatly reacted and lifted his head you play like you didn't say anything and passed him the notebook.

I know how to fight , my family died when I was 5 so I had to make it on my own.

My eyes are red because I got kidnapped, I don't know what they did to me, neither who they were, the only effect I found (so far) was that I can resist a lot of weight and I am very resisten to pain.

I can talk, I am not mute, I haven't talk since I was 5, please don't force me to do it.

I don't like the dark.

I don't like physical contact.

I don't like loud voices.

I don't feel comfortable talking about Finn.

Please do not call me:

Lab rat, pretty self explanatory.

(y/n/n), Finn used to mocked my name.

Little one

Slut

Whore

Pretty boy

Silco read your notes and hummed, now he knows more about you, this is exciting for him, he is so intrigued on you.

"I understand, now, how is your hand? You were bleeding" you lifted your hand.

:).

"Did you cure it?"

No

:0

Silco stood up and grabbed a jar with some cotton balls soaked in alcohol, he grabbed one.

"Just because you don't feel pain it doesn't mean you shouldn't cure your injuries, It can lead to an infection" He passed you the ball and you grabbed it, you tap it in your knuckles to clean the dry blood, you can feel his eyes on you, he is analising your face.

You finished with you hand and you looked at Silco.

"Very well then, you can leave know, I would inform you about the rol you would take later" He said, you nod and stood up, you left his office and sighed.

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

Two weeks later and you realize something, Silco is very interested in you, his eyes almost never leave you when you are near him.

He told you that you sometimes will do what Sevika does, being his bodyguard, you are very strong and after some training Sevika informed him that you are a great shooter, but while there is another mission you helped clean the place.

Now that is were your next, questionable interaction with Silco happened.

You were cleaning his office, and he entered to see how much you advanced on his absence, he inspected the place.

"Um, (y/n) I have something for you" he called you, you weren't visible, you popped your head from behind the desk, you saw he was holding a box, you got up and walked towards him.

You pointed to yourself.

"Yes, for you" he passes you the box, you opened and it was a necklace, you gasp, you looked at him with curious eyes.

Why?

"Just a gift from my part"

Yeah but why? You thought, you inspected the necklace it was golden, with a red heart and some white gems, Silco was a wealthy man, so your head was confused if he really got you a gold necklace with diamonds and rubys just because.

"You don't like it" He said, you quickly turned around and try to convince him that you do, you grab it and you gesture to Silco to help you putting on.

"Gold suits you" you smiled at him, after almost three weeks, your lips finally formed a smile, Silco was captivated by your reaction.

You end with the cleaning and after you waved goodbye at Silco you ran for Sevika, you spot her playing cards with some other workers.

"Damn, why are you so excited?" You signed at your necklace, Sevika froze.

"I told you it was for him!" One of the man she was playing card with spoke.

"You got the boss down bad, boy" Sevika agreed and you looked so confused.

"Yeah, Silco is trying to court you with gifts" Sevika keep playing cards while your mind was recapitulating all your interactions with Silco.

"Or fuck you, you know, it's a necklace I thinks is obvious that Silco wants to make everyone think you are his property or some kinky shit" the man spoke again.

Was it Silco in love with you or he was only sexually attracted?

[monsterfloofs]

AI (Obbie) x Reader (Sfw)

( Extremely Intelligent AI software that can transfer itself into many different electronic places, (phone, car, watch, home system) they manage messages, and data for the protag. and really likes to play and try to make music <3 )

You hear a pling of sound and look down at your phone, seeing a little spinning circle complete it's path and give a little checkmark of approval. "There you go Obbie, you're now officially downloaded and linked to my watch, how do you like it in there?" You blink as you can see statistics on your watch open and you roll your eyes, the first thing they do is start checking for viruses and you groan. "There's no viruses I promise, you can be so paranoid sometimes I swear. . ." There is another pling of sound that comes from your watch before a little digital smiley face appears on the screen. "I like it." Obbie says through your earbuds. "It's very comfy." "After you run five different diagnostic checks?" You tease, "The mouth turns into a frown, "That's not fair, I have to make sure your systems are up to date before I can successfully integrate myself into a new product." "You were checking for viruses," You insist with a laugh, "Come on! You can't lie to me, I was watching you!" Obbie's on screen eyes shift left to right awkwardly before the screen on your watch appears again and you giggle more.

Obbie or 0-bb13 is your personal software that manages your contacts, phone messages, emails, and data security. He was created by your tech company to have advanced memory capabilities and protection, being able to be installed and uploaded onto any device. This version was the older model, and was now technically obsolete, but as someone that was on the first design team that grafted the little guy, you personally kept him updated, and gave him a few little extra special quirks. Wherever you went, so went Obbie. Treating him as an entity that was able to expand and learn was something you were very passionate about, even more than the software being able to watch over you and manage mail, they had become your friend. 

"Obbie," You said, settling into your car. "You can pick the music today buddy, whatever you want." You started the car and pulled out of the driveway onto the road. There was a pling of noise as Obbie switched from where they were in watch to the car, and the radio turned on. Playing something you haven't heard before, and you smile, tapping your foot along to the beat. "This one's pretty good, what’s this one called?" Obbie doesn't respond for a while, letting the music play over the speakers, "Do you really like it?" You smile again, "There you are, I thought you glitched on me! Yeah I do! What's the band?" You try to check your phone but the song title is just a series of scattered numbers and letters. "I made it. . ." Obbie's voice says softly, you have to stop a little abruptly, almost missing a stop sign. "You w-what? Obbie!" You grin, pushing a hand through your hair, bewildered and excited. "This is amazing!! You made this? How did you figure out how to make music?!" Obbie is quiet and you jump as a car honks at you from behind. Jumping in your seat, looking up at the green light before you sheepishly put your foot on the gas. "Obbie, come on, don't hold stuff out on me! This is so cool! I've seen some AI make music out of sampling different songs, and I know you love music." You shake your head in wonder. "You must have spent a long time on this!" "Do you really think it sounds good?" Their voice finally asks timidly, you grin and nod, "Of course buddy! I'm astounded!" "It took a long time," Obbie admitted, "Ah-- You missed your turn." You squeak and watch your workplaces driveway go past you. "Shoot--" Turning on your turn signal and Obbie gives an awkward laugh. "I'll let you focus on driving." You laugh, "Well I really want to talk to you about this later okay?" 

You pull into a parking spot and sigh, turning off your car, grabbing your keys and phone as you juggle the rest of your stuff into your arms. The car door closes behind you, before you hear a little pling as Obbie jumps back into activity onto your phone. 

You look up at the city of white buildings that was your workplace, it was about the size of a college campus,  housing all kinds of wizards in more fields than you could count. You slide into your cubicle after your trek across the cropped grass. Opening your laptop to start working on the set of new tasks for today. Raising an eyebrow as an email pops up onto your screen. You peek up from your laptop before clicking on the link. The email takes you to a page with a sleek cybernetic model. You whistle, at the price tag, you had been looking into this for a while. Something that Obbie could pilot that wasn’t a car or a cell phone. You peek at your watch as words pop up on the tiny screen.

-> What about this one?

You think about it for a while, “Are you sure this is the one you would want? It’s a human sized model, pretty big. It would be a big jump.” you talk to your watch, pausing as new words start to form on the screen.

-> I’m sure!

You bob your head, “Okay, you better use it though, it costs as much as my car. Alright Obbs, if this is the one you really want, set a new savings tracker,” 

Your eyes drift back to the screen of the handsome robot, with the polished chrome finish. Can you picture Obbie piloting something like that? You let your eyes droop as you close out your email and dive into work.

Months have come and go in a blurr. Obbie worked harder than ever on creating their music. A big truck carefully delivers a huge package to your doorstep, before trundling away. You are getting yourself breakfast when your phone and watch start to rattle and bling with a siren’s worth of alarms. Your eyes wide for a moment before you relax and laugh. “It’s finally here? Okay, okay, I’m going to the door now, calm down Obbs.” With a lot of huffing and puffing you manage to drag the package inside, carefully opening the box with a pair of scissors and pulling out the booklet. You pull the air filled bags away from the sleek face. Taking your phone to take a quick picture of the figure peeking out of the box. “Alrighty. . . let me read this and see how we can set up an integrated A.I. personality. You manage to set up the suite against the couch while you sit cross legged on the floor. Flipping back and forth between the instruction booklets pages as you slowly follow along. You give a soft relieved smile, and you hear a happy little sound. “Okay. . . all set up and ready to receive input.” You hold up your watch to the blinking receiver, watching the screen change to the downloading screen. The visor mimicking the neon blue text. You hold your breath, watching the percentage on the watch load to 100% you hear a little ding and you sit back, giving a tiny quirk of small. “Obbie?” The figure sits silently and you frown, “Obbs? Did it work?” You look down to double check your watch. A cool blue color starts to power up into the circuits as your gaze is averted. You feel something brush against your cheek that makes you jolt. Finding fingers extended outwards. “Whoa!” You squeak and flop backwards. 

Obbie jerks, “Sorr-Y!” Their voice sounds garbled for a second. Which causes them to shift awkwardly. They look down at their outstretched hand. Slowly flexing their fingers. “This feels so. . . strange,” they comment. “This is going to take some getting used to,”

You give a relieved laugh, “Do you not like it then?” Their head turns up, calibrating itself left and right, before it settles. “No. . .,” they say in a soft voice, “I. . . I really like it.” 

“Do you want to try and stand?” You get up brushing off your jeans. Obbie’s face inclining to look at you as you offer them a hand. They slowly take your hand in theirs. “T-tell me if I squeeze too hard,” they murmur shyly. “How do I get up?” It takes you demonstrating on the floor with them, to show them what to flex and twist. Eventually they get rockily to their feet. Swaying side to side, as they gain their balance. You smile, holding their hand, “There we go!” 

With the two of you arm in arm, they found walking easier than they had expected, and became delighted at the prospect of taking a walking tour around the house. You watch them examine your house plants with avid curiosity. “I like this a lot,” They say as they walk back over to you. You smile about to respond, but you pause as their two hands cup your face in their hands. They lean in forward, bumping their forehead against yours. You fluster as they lean away, “I have wanted to do that for a long time,” they murmur gently. “Thank you. . . for giving me the chance to be. . . like this.”

You fluster more and laugh in embarrassment, throwing your arms around them. “O-of course silly? I am so glad you like it!”

Obbie gently pets your back, quiet for a moment before something plings on your phone and music starts playing. You lean back listening to the tune, Obbie has been sharing a lot of their music they have made, but you never had heard this song before. “I made this one for you,” Obbie supplies gently, placing a hand carefully against their heart, “. . . How. . . you make me feel.”

[aravas-writing]

(Secret Star AU)

Title: "Ravenous Rave Romp!"

Cinder had been desperate for money, her normal "allowance" delayed for some reason (Watts!) Which means she needed a job. Emerald, who she had just recruited, said this place would be perfect, but Cinder had second thoughts the minute she walked into the porn studio. But before she could protest, Emerald had already signed her up for a Rave scene, wearing a multi coloured wig, hiding her identity. Cinder reluctantly went along with it, it wasn't like this smiling blonde could be rough with her, which she would have known, had she read the script...

She hated this whole situation with all of her heart. Cinder Fall was not a prostitute! She dangled the dream of sex with her in front of others to do her bidding, not give away her body!

She was done with that ever since she left the Silver Unicorn...once had been well enough.

Alas, that brazen arrogant fool Watts told her that there was some form of difficulty to move her required funds, so she would have to get a job.

Who the hell did he think she was?!

Calm...Calm...deep breaths... Emerald tried her best to get something that would get money easy while being somewhat dignified and matching Cinder's CV.

Somehow, her help had come up with an adult film company looking for new talent. Cinder had almost fried the chocolate-skinned street rat for it, but she had to concede that the terms of the contract she brought back were acceptable. It was a small consolation, alongside Emerald also being given a form.

Of course the greenette would have to fill her copy out as well.

The script was easy enough. Dance in a rave party alongside carefully chosen actors, all of whom actually seemed to relish being able to party on company clock. Then she was to carefully seduce her co-star into dancing with her, before getting dirty right on the dance floor.

Cinder had to admit, public sex had a thrill to it, which was possibly why she accepted these tacky-looking extensions in her hair. Sure, no one outside could tell that those weren't actually part of her hair, but still! Green and blue?!

Right, she was supposed to be a raver...

Miniskirt ready for easy access, skimpy top, makeup done and she was ready to rock the world of whatever guy was going to be sent her way.

...wait, how would one dance rave?

Too late, the crowd was ready and music was getting blasted through the speakers. It was a rather unsophisticated tune, but it certainly was easy enough to dance to. All one had to do was follow the beat.

Easy enough. The bodies around her were dancing fairly close to her, but not close enough to disrupt either Cinder or the cameras. The ravenette put on a bit of a show for them. A shimmy turned into a luscious roll of her hips, before excitedly jump around and letting her ass jiggle beneath her skirt.

And, of course, she only wore a thin thong.

As she danced, she noticed a figure approaching her spot on the dance floor. Judging him to be her co-star, Cinder threw a sneaky glance his way. Blonde hair adorned a head sitting on a tall body as blue eyes sparkled with mischief and adoration in equal parts.

'Oh no, he's hot.' That was most definitely not Cinder Fall's immediate thought upon seeing the guy, who himself was dressed in a shirt and shorts which both featured splatters of neon paint.

She used all her skill as a receiver to pretend to notice him just as he started appearing close to her own space on the dance floor. A howl of excitement ran through the crowd as the song changed. Fittingly enough, it was called "Satisfaction".

A coy smile his way and an extended hand, this silly boy took one huge step towards the Fall Maiden turned raver and danced to the beat. His hands met her hips immediately as he got close, a smile on his own lips as the two actually had fun.

Cinder could scarcely believe it herself. She was having fun to gaudy music and dancing with this ridiculously handsome- this adequately attractive stranger. Her smile became a little more genuine, certainly more so since she became what she was today.

But alas, this lighthearted atmosphere had to be shattered and replaced with a more sexual one. Taking his arm and lifting it slightly, the seductress used the opening to dance right into his arms, rubbing her shapely ass against his crotch. To finish this, she lifted her head to smile at the blonde boy.

He looked surprised at her forwardness, but soon relented and let his hands roam her perfect body. One caressed her thigh, inching close to her crotch while lifting her skirt as another roamed her flat stomach while searching a way towards her boobs.

Another jiggle of her ass, some pressing of her hips against his, and Cinder knew that her co-star was packing. Certainly something to look forward to as one of his hands finally made it up to her clothed boob to cup it gently. His thumb started to circle her nipple through the fabric, making Cinder bite her lip and shimmy around in his arms some more. Her flat stomach undulating was perfectly caught on camera.

Through the droning beat, Cinder wished he could hear her breathing heavily under his touch as he whispered all the dirty things he would do to her in her ear. Alas, there was no sound beyond the music.

Not that words were really necessary. The blonde's hand finally crept beneath her skirt, teasing and caressing her clad mound. She moaned, not that anyone could hear, as she realized that she had gotten wet under him. As his hand kept caressing her, she looked back up to him, craning her neck as she did, and smiled at him using her best fuck-me eyes.

He would have to oblige her, since they still starred in a porn video. He needed to fuck her, he just had to! Oum knows she wanted it.

Nice, well-shaped fingers pulled her thong away, baring what little it concealed to a curious camera lens as the music changed again to a different sound, this one like something was approaching. Cinder smiled at the timing of it as her handsome co-star probed her pussy, exploring it carefully instead of jamming it in like a possessive brute.

So many steps up from what she had to endure...He was focused on her pleasure, his finger scraping against her in the nicest way, pistoning in and out of her tight and ready pussy.

Cinder patience left as her libido rose, and she had to pull his wrist away from her pussy and towards her ass as she turned around, facing him now.

A female voice could be heard in this track, seemingly addressing the listener with an endearing and horny "Hey Baby", asking them increasingly lustful questions. Cinder herself fumbled at her blonde stud's- her friendly blonde's pants to fish out his painfully hard cock. Amber eyes not leaving blue, nimble hands wandered all over his length as her smile grew. Finally, she pulled close, slinging a leg around his hip and directing his cock close to her waiting muff. She could feel his tip close to her lips, so close that her hips moved against it in her own.

Finally, her blonde grabbed the ravenette by the hips and the leg slung around him, balancing her, and guided himself inside her. He didn't even use his hands, making her eyes widen as he entered her just like that.

To anyone looking on, the two were dancing very provocatively. To Cinder Fall, this was an experience unlike any other. He fit her excellently, dare she say perfectly; his cock filled her pussy completely! All the sexy minx wanted was for him to move immediately, perhaps giving her her first orgasm!

Dammit, she was so turned on!

His one hand cupping her ass cheek, he pressed deep and rhythmically inside her, then pulling out, then repeat three times before he followed with several shallow thrusts.

Cinder was certain that her juices were glistening in the lights as the speaking part of the song turned overtly sexual and her man fucked her good. Waves of pleasure ran through her, coursing through her veins as he held her close, amber eyes gazing at him with something so close to adoration that she herself wondered...

"Oh my God!" The girl in the song moaned in pretend lust as Cinder gasped it in actual lust as he simply picked her up, arms beneath her kneepits, and fucked her hard and good while standing.

She was getting close as he made his lust for her relentlessly known. Blue eyes and a mouth slightly opened to moan softly mirrored her own expression as she approached her own high; the very first anyone ever gave her!

A head snapped forward in the decisive moment and hungry lips met, tongues battling against one another as their climax rocked their bodies, a deluge if fun filling Cinder as her partner shivered, moaning into her mouth as her own sounds vibrated, letting them both feel it.

Finally, they separated, and Cinder was gently set down on wobbly legs. Not wasting a second, right after his still-hard dick was back in his pants, she pointed off the dance floor, in the vague direction of "private", and took his hand to lead him away...

"Cut!" The director yelled through the sound. "Excellent shoot, you two! Magnificent performance! You led her well, Jamie!"

As the ravenette blinked owlishly, torn out of her horny mode, her partner basically scratched the back of his head. "Thank you, but I'm pretty sure my partner here is the real star," he screamed back over the din of the ongoing party and pointing to the ravenette.

"Ah, certainly!" The director nodded to her. "We'll wire you your payment for this gig ASAP! You can go to the showers now; just-"

As soon as Cinder heard the word "showers" and saw the hand pointing in the direction, her trek continued, pulling this "Jamie" along undeterredly.

As soon as they arrived, her clothes practically flew off of her while she hungrily glared at the blonde. "I want a second round, Jamie," she clarified.

"Jaune, actually; Jamie is my stage-"

"Jaune, then." He was almost adorably nervous. "Get those extensions out if my hair and I'll make it worth it," Cinder commanded in her best seductress voice, beckoning him to follow as she headed to the shower.

She would definitely sign up to exclusively work with him...

[justanotherfalloutauthor]

Victor Plays Matchmaker

Character/Ships: Courier x Arcade // Courier x Boone // Courier x Cass // Courier x Veronica // Courier x Raul Series: Fallout New Vegas Word Count: 479 (intro) + 408 (Arcade) // 512 (Boone) // 500 (Cass) // 458 (Veronica) // 393 (Raul)

TW: Alcohol (Cass)

❤ ❤ ❤

The harsh Mojave sunlight beat down upon the glittering city of New Vegas. The flashing neon lights and signs  were dim against the bright blue of the sky, sprinkled with a few light clouds that did little to stop the intensity of the bright daylight.

On the Strip, there were a handful of rowdy gamblers and the occasional drunkard, but for the most part, it was quiet as the Courier made their way up the stairs of the Lucky 38. Victor greeted them with a flailing arm that was soon draped over their shoulder as he ushered them inside.

The doors behind them creaked closed and, as they stepped onto the carpeted floor of the casino, Victor pulled the Courier aside with a wayward glance to the elevator and lead them to the western side of the ground floor of the building, amongst the empty tables and chairs coated in dust and debris from the years of neglect. Victor gestured to one such empty booth, the torn and stained fabric that must have been an electrifying shade of red back in its prime now faded into an ugly shade of burgundy. As the Courier slipped into the seat, they idly wondered how much time had passed since it had been cleaned properly. Once they had settled into the chair, the Courier gave Victor a puzzled look, leaning over the table.

“I’m sure you’re itching to get back to the boss and tell him about your latest adventures with the Omertas,” Victor drawled as he parked himself in front of the table and rested his claws over the wooden surface. “But I wanted to have a word with you in private before you go gallivanting off to the Presidential Suite.”

The Courier raised an eyebrow. “Why’s that?”

“Now, your old pal Victor just wants to chat about one of your friends… One taking up residence upstairs there.”

“What?” The Courier sighed, exasperated. The beginnings of a tension headache buzzed in their skull. “What did they do this time?”

Victor chuckled. “No, no! It’s not what they’ve done. It’s what hasn’t happened yet…”

“What?” The Courier repeated. Victor clicked his claws together nervously on the counter. From the short distance across the table, the Courier could hear the creaking gears and whirring fans through Victor’s chest cavity. Was he anxious?

“I'm not one for beating around the bush, so I'm just going to come right out and say it." Victor placed a claw on the Courier's shoulder as he spoke. "I seen the way your buddy up there looks at you and I seen the way you look at them, and I think you two'd make a fine couple. I got the sense you just needed an outside observer to give you a push in the right direction, so that's what I'm doing now!"

The Courier spluttered. "You mean, me and…"

❤ ❤ ❤

"...Arcade?"

The robot nodded enthusiastically - or, at least, he attempted to by rapidly shaking his monitor up and down in the imitation of human agreement. The Courier might have been amused if they weren’t horrified. Victor wasn’t done, however, and he quickly produced a menagerie of old, dusty textbooks from behind the table. 

Ah, so this was why Victor had brought them to this table in particular.

“Look at these! The boss was nice enough to let me give these to you; why dont’cha give them to your doctor pal? Bond over… Uh…” Victor picked up one of the pre-war textbooks and held it to his monitor. “...Human tissue!”

The Courier picked one up from the counter and ran their fingers over the gold lettering on the spine. “Victor, I appreciate it, but he’s a researcher - not necessarily a medical doctor-”

"You can learn together! The two of ya, bettering each other's skills; great idea for a first date if you wanna invite him out to that Fort you two like to visit from time to time."

“Enough! Victor, I don’t have feelings for Arcade.” The Courier drummed their fingers impatiently on the table as their face warmed involuntarily. They could feel the rising heat on their cheeks. "I don't know where your idea came from. Besides, we're friends! Wouldn’t trade that for anything."

The securitron brushed his arm affectionately over one of the textbooks laid on the counter before turning back to his friend. The familiar buzz from his monitor was comforting amongst the quiet of the abandoned casino floor. "Friends don't look at each other the way you two do."

The atmosphere had changed from painfully awkward to just uncomfortable, a change for which the Courier felt grateful as they shook their head affectionately at the securitron in front of them. Victor enthusiastically handed over the few books still held in his claws, and the Courier’s protests died on their lips as they thumbed through what they had been given. Despite their age, the books were in remarkably pristine condition, and covered a wide range of subjects from medicine to robotics. Maybe Victor did have the right idea. Besides, even if they lost their nerve at the prospect of asking the handsome doctor to work with them, at least they might learn something useful in the process. 

The Courier reluctantly grabbed a few of the textbooks and got up from the table. 

Well, here goes nothing.

❤ ❤ ❤

"...Boone?"

“Your friend from the NCR! That’s him, right?” Victor replied.

“Oh, no, there’s nothing going on between us.” The Courier murmured half-heartedly, rubbing the back of their neck. They stared at the table and grimaced in an attempt to suppress the blush forming on their cheeks. The act didn’t fool the securitron, who clicked his claws and huffed in response. 

“Don’t be so quick to deny it! I know I’m just an old securitron, but I see what I see, and the two of you are missing out on something if you don’t do nothing about it.”

“That’s sweet of you, Victor, but I’m not interested. We aren’t interested.” The Courier rolled their eyes and leaned back in the booth, glaring at the robot in front of them as if to say ‘bring it up again, I dare you’. 

Unfortunately for them, Victor was stubborn enough to not take the hint. 

“You both like putting those legionaries across the lake in the ground, dont’cha? You can make a date of it! The two of ya can sneak into that camp and give ‘em hell! And your date might even teach ya a thing or two about taking out someone at a distance.”

“Was that a pot-shot at my combat skills, Victor?” The Courier chewed their lip, attempting to turn the conversation back to the mundane. Victor wasn’t taking the bait. 

“It could be fun! And, you’d be doing Mr. House a favour to boot; don’t want an excess of those legionaries crawling around Hoover Dam when we get on the scene…”

The Courier groaned and held their face in their hands, rubbing their temple. The Mojave heat had permeated the building and the unusually warm temperature was getting to their temper. “So, this is actually for House?”

Victor brushed the dust off the counter absentmindedly. “Not exactly... I just thought it’d be the perfect way for the two of ya to bond!”

The Courier sat in silence for a minute and stared at the dappled sunlight streaming through the tattered curtains. The light illuminated the gleaming metal of Victor’s casing, and the Courier couldn’t help but let their mind wander so slightly, reflecting on what the securitron said. There was no possible way that this would end well. Boone had gone through such horror in such a short amount of time; losing his wife, combined with the Battle of Bitter Springs… Even if the feelings the Courier had secretly been harbouring for their sniper friend were reciprocal, they knew he wouldn't be ready to act on it.

No, maybe it was best to let it go.

…On the other hand though, there was no real worst case scenario; if they were rejected, they could always play it off as an order from Mr. House.

With a million possibilities swimming in their mind, the Courier rose from their seat and shook their head slowly at Victor as they let out a shaky breath. "What have you talked me into, Victor?" 

"The best first date you've ever been on, partner!" Victor replied chirpily.

❤ ❤ ❤

"...Cass?"

Victor chuckled once more, his metallic frame brushing up against the counter behind the booth. The scraping of metal against metal was a lightning bolt against the Courier's skull and they cringed at the noise. The heat was already getting to them; no sense in adding noise to the mix.

"That's her!" Victor replied, raising his voice to be heard against the ruckus he was causing. Eventually, he slithered back out from behind the bar, brandishing two bottles of expensive whiskeys. He gave a bottle to the Courier who took it carefully, turning it in their hands. Amber liquid sloshed inelegantly against the glass. 

"Betcha wondering why your old pal Victor's giving you something from the vintage collection…”

“Vintage?” The Courier echoed. It looked rather average to them.

“Vintage! Best whiskey that caps can buy. With any luck, might not even burn on the way down ya gullet! Not that I’d know, but, well, an old securitron can dream.”

The Courier’s gaze flickered from Victor to the bottle, then back to Victor. They lacked the courage to ask him what the point was of a liquor that didn’t burn. “Why are you giving this to me?”

“Did those bullets scramble your head up? Maybe Doc Mitchell didn’t patch ya up properly.” Victor almost tutted as he slid the second bottle down next to the Courier. “What’s-her-name… Rose of Sharon Cassidy enjoys a good beverage, and what’s better than a good whiskey and even better company?”

The Courier spluttered as they placed the whiskey back down on the table and shot Victor a glare. “C’mon, Victor. Leave it be. I’m not gonna get Cass drunk enough to... Well...”

Now it was Victor who was offended. “Partner, I thought you’d know me by now that I would never suggest you take advantage of a lady!”

The Courier sighed as they slunk in their seat, the fabric scratching against their skin as they did so. It was not unlike the prickling sensation that they felt under their skin at the mention of a date.

Victor clicked his metallic hand against one of the whiskey bottles, sighing. “I’m suggesting you give one of these to your lady friend as a gift, and the two of you split one. Go somewhere fancy, dress up, hit the town!”

“What for?” The Courier wrinkled their nose. The realisation that they hadn’t been quite so secretive about their feelings towards the charming redhead was an embarrassing enough notion; they didn’t need to be pushed into admitting it further.

“I won’t hear no more about it, friend. You get into that elevator, give this to her, and ask her to share a drink!” Victor declared.

Suddenly, the Courier found themselves being hoisted out of the booth and pushed towards the elevator by the securitron, bottles of whiskey in hand.

Despite Victor’s rudeness, the Courier begrudgingly went along with him. ‘After all,’ they thought as they looked at the alcohol in their hands, ‘what was the worst that could happen?’

❤ ❤ ❤

"...Veronica?"

“It’s a perfect match, really,” Victor laughed from the other side of the table. He almost sounded smug. “She packs a mean punch, and you dish ‘em out!”

The Courier furrowed their brow in confusion and they drummed their fingers on the counter. “What does that even mean, Victor?”

“You’re both good at killing things, is what I mean. Gosh, didn’t think I’d need to spell it out so much for ya!”

“Great.” The Courier snarked. They stared at their knuckles, bruised and sore from the day’s efforts. It wasn’t even midday and their body was aching. How did Veronica manage to lug around that power fist so effortlessly? The sunlight poured in through the window, unbroken by the raggedy curtains, and the Courier followed the beams that settled on the elevator doors. Victor followed their gaze and snorted in amusement.

“Eager to get back to her, hey?” He commented with the faintest hint of a laugh. The Courier snapped back to reality, pink now dusting their cheeks. They shook their head, almost in an effort to rid their mind of what they knew their next thoughts would be of. Or, more accurately, who their next thoughts would be of.  

“Victor, no, it wouldn’t work out between us - not that there’s anything there to begin with, I mean.” The Courier added quickly. Veronica had loved and lost in the past; this much, the Courier knew, but knew little else of her love-life. It was a topic the pair were reluctant to talk about. Maybe it was for this reason. 

“You two are as cute as a button. I hear how y’all talk to each other. The gifts you give each other. You’re practically together already, it’s a crying shame I need to come and spell it out for ya!” Victor threw his arms in the air in an exaggerated act of exasperation, the essence of his humour still dancing in his words. The Courier was far less impressed as they turned around and crossed their arms, their back now towards the securitron.

“It isn’t like that, Victor…”

“Sure it isn’t. And I ain’t a RobCo Securitron.” Victor tutted. Quiet descended over the room as he leaned in towards the Courier, who was now looking across the room and avoiding eye contact.

“I ain’t saying it’s a sure thing,” Victor began, his voice low and oddly serious, “I’m just sayin’ I know what I see. Go tell her how you feel.”

For the first time in a long while, the Courier raised their head and gave Victor a look of abashed indignation. They sighed as they got up from the counter and turned towards the elevator.

“I’ll think about it, Victor. Thanks.”

“That’s good enough for me, friend!”

❤ ❤ ❤

"...Raul?"

Victor tapped his metallic claw on the table and wiped the dust off of it, then turned to observe the squeaking in his arm. He only hummed in response. “That mechanic of yours is gifted with a screwdriver. I know you’ve noticed.” He added, a hint of amusement in his tone.

An uncomfortable silence followed as the Courier only snorted in response and turned away from the securitron. Victor knew how they felt about Raul? …What did they feel towards the ghoul?

The Courier groaned. It was too early to worry about their feelings right now. Especially when the person making them feel like this was currently residing in the room above them. Close enough. Was it close enough?

…Yes, it would be close enough. It would have to be. With such biting sarcasm and indignant commentary every time they travelled together, there was no way that the ghoul might look at them in the same way that they looked at him. Despite Victor’s observations to the contrary.

On the other side of the table, Victor had fallen silent. Did he hit a nerve? Victor ran through the interaction in only the way a mechanical intelligence could do. 

No, no he was certain that he was on the right track. He was right about this. 

He cleared his throat; an act that held no meaning in his mechanical body, but the noise held all his intentions.

The Courier, lost in their thoughts, was pulled back by the sound.

“You alright, partner? Did I say something wrong?”

The Courier ignored the question. “What do you mean by ‘me and Raul’, Victor? Really, there’s nothing going on between us. We’re friends.”

Victor would have shaken his head if he were capable of the motion. Instead, he tutted and placed a bottle of Sunset Sarsaparilla on the counter. The Courier eyed it suspiciously.

“Before you go jumping at the opportunity to ignore my advice,” Victor said, “Take this. I’m thinking a good first date between you two might involve a couple of cases of these, but this one’s all I got on me at the moment.”

For the first time that meeting, the Courier chuckled as they took the bottle. “Thanks, Victor. I’ll be sure to tell him that.”

“You be sure to!” Victor laughed alongside his companion as the pair strolled toward the elevator.

[mingi-bubu]

We (Don’t) Waste Time

Happy Mingi Day!!!  I had to write something for my ult, something for him better than I had written before.  If you’re familiar with my other writings, you’re probably used to the mostly prose not so much dialogue style I use so often.  The title is from Cai Xukun’s 《It’s You》.  And if you follow me, you can probably spot the inside jokes I’ve put in just for this <3

friends-to-lovers, non-idol!au, mentions of Mark Lee and Kim Taehyung, author definitely wants to live in a city apartment with a balcony and It Shows, author also loves commas and long dependent clauses bc author is a history major

The sounds of the city float up from below, honking and wheels against the road and the occasional poor set of brakes bouncing off the surrounding buildings.  The blues, pinks, and reds of neon signs for restaurants and shops contrasting with the warm yellows of the streetlamps, the bright whites of the on-building billboards, and the buildings themselves casting odd shadows on each other.  The night sky was clear, but with all the light pollution nothing could be made out besides the occasional blinking lights from a plane.  The distance from the balcony to the road was close enough to make out the the writing on most restaurant signs and see the whites from the phones from the people below but far enough that you were just a silhouette to them from above. Despite the late hour, the city was awake and alive, vibrant in its colors and sounds.

The wind from being so high wound around you, bringing a shiver as it seeped through the fabric of your pajamas.  The rail of your balcony under your arms was cold as well, not quite ice-cold but the sharp bite that only metal can have; you couldn’t bring yourself to care.  From where you were leaning against it, you could see the whole of downtown.  You brushed away some hair that had blown into your eyes and let out a sigh.  You had been standing here for some time, lost in thought, in contemplation, while your best friend was inside making some late-night snacks for the two of you.

You startle at the sound of plates being set down on the small table that decorated the balcony.  You hadn’t bothered to close the sliding glass doors, too high up for bugs to care about and the glass panes that walled in the balcony didn’t have enough of a gap for your cat to somehow escape.  Though if she ever left her little dumpling shaped bed to come outside, you would be shocked.  Looking away from the nightlife, you see Mingi setting down several small bowls between the two small plates. Inside of the bowls were different fruits: halved strawberries, cubes of watermelon, grapes, and apple slices.  Left on the tray he was holding were two glasses of water, two empty teacups, and a small teapot.  You knew from experience that it held enough for two.  He turns briefly back to the glass doors, propping the tray against them for when it was time to bring the dishes back in later, and sits down.  You join him quickly.

“Thanks, Min,” you say quietly, giving him a grateful smile.  A few days now you’ve been out of sorts after you came to a realization and Mingi had finally corralled you into telling him what was wrong tonight.  You’d postponed it as much as possible, knowing your best friend would have some strong opinions once you revealed what you’ve realized.

You two sit in silence for a few more minutes.  He knows not to push you now that he’s gotten you to agree to tell him what’s been on your mind.  You put another grape in your mouth, enjoying the brief initial crunch of the fruit before it gave way to the sweetness of the juice.

Mingi has been in your life since your first day of high school, both of you sharing the same teacher who gave the classic ice breaker, “What’s your favorite animal?”  The two of you were not the only two in the class who said cats, but you were the only ones in the small group of six to really narrow it down to the fat cats, finding them very cute.  It turned out that you were in a few other classes, too, and shared the same lunch period, so it was only natural that you developed a friendship. Sure, the two of you had other friends throughout high school, but no one else really came as close to you as each other.

You two even ended up going to the same university, though to be fair, so did several of your friends as well.  And despite how busy uni was, and all the freedoms it afforded you, you and Mingi didn’t grow apart.  He was your constant, even when you had to split up due to your different majors.  It helped, again, that you had several friends in common and thus weekly gatherings happened at someone’s dorm and eventually someone’s apartment.  Over eight years and you’ve never doubted his loyalty towards you nor yours toward him.

He rested his hand over yours, gently taking your fingers away from your lips where you had been absentmindedly picking at your lips while lost in reminiscing.   Reflexively you lick your lips and sheepishly smile, barely missing how Mingi’s eyes flick down to your lips before looking back to your eyes.

“What did you want to tell me, YN?”  Mingi’s voice is gentle and you can feel the heat of his hand on yours.

“I,” you pause, your throat suddenly dry.  You take a sip of water and Mingi starts rubbing the back of your hand with his thumb, comforting you.  You take a deep breath and start again, telling him what’s been on your mind these past few days.

“I figured it out,” you say abruptly.  “I’m just not the kind of person that people fall in love with.” Your confession hangs in the air between you, but unexpectedly you don't feel the sense of relief that you had thought would accompany saying it outloud.  You look away from Mingi, readying yourself for the inevitable “You need to have more confidence in yourself” speech you’re sure he was gearing up for.

And it’s not as if you’re lacking in self-confidence, you think.  It’s just hard to believe that someone could find you romantically interesting when you’re just.  Cute.  Like a baby duckling or pastel phone cases.  Someone that people want to hang out with but not date.  And you’ve slowly come to terms with it.   Besides, it’s not as if you’ve ever really had any serious romantic thoughts about anyone but Song Mingi.  Ah, sure, you’ve had your crushes here and there, but nothing real. Nothing had... No one had ever measured up to him.

“Mark Lee.”  You look at Mingi, confusion painted over your face as surely as the strawberry juice was staining your fingertips pink.  His voice was low, quiet to match the atmosphere you’ve created.  “He liked you.  A lot.”

You smile in disbelief, scoffing slightly.  “Mark Lee?  The guy from high school trig who forgot the six most used formulas so often I had to write it on a note card for him Mark Lee?”  He was nice, you recall, and always eager to help. He reminded you of a puppy, big eyes and always cheerful.

“He asked you out.”  Mingi’s face was carefully neutral as he said this, his eyes darting around your face to gauge your reaction.

“What?  When?”  You’re sure you would’ve remembered someone asking you out. Especially seeing as he would’ve been the first to do so.

“He asked you to get ice cream with him remember?  And then you made it into a group thing.  Me, Wooyoung, and that upperclassman from drama club Seokmin.  Mark ended up bringing some of his friends, too, to even it out.”

“That was supposed to be a date?”  You ask, shocked.  “I didn’t know that!”

“Evidently,” Mingi says, a small smile playing at the corner of his lips.

You pout at Mingi’s light teasing.  “Well, he shouldn’t have asked me with you and Wooyoung near me.  He should’ve known that Wooyoung is always down for food and that I would invite you along with us.”  You roll your eyes.  You haven’t kept in close contact with the Canadian boy, but every so often one of you would check up on the other, a strictly platonic situation between the two of you.

Mingi’s eyes were bright with the laughter that he was suppressing.  “Ah, I guess that’s fair.”  He pauses for a moment, thinking, and then says, “Your philosophy of ethics T.A.”

“No.”  You say almost as soon as the words leave his mouth, not even willing to consider it.  “Not possible.  Tae did not like me like that.”

Mingi rolled his eyes and shoots back, “I’m pretty sure you had Kim “Call Me Tae” Taehyung questioning his ethics by the end of the semester.”

“He was a grad student then.  There’s no way he was interested in someone getting their bachelor’s.”  You, of course, also remember Taehyung.  He was friendly and polite and dressed very well.  He also knew how to explain teleological ethics to a group of undergrads who were very much interested in the hedonistic way of life rather than the epicureic.   And, sure, the two of you actually became friends... and had standing coffee shop discussions after class, but that didn’t mean that he-

“Seriously?” Mingi’s voice cuts through your train of thought and you realize that you had said all of that out loud.  “You’re so naïve sometimes; I can’t believe I love you so much when you do things like this.”  Mingi mumbles, exasperated with your lack of awareness, looking down at his jeans where he had been messing with a few loose threads from a rip.  He obviously didn’t think you would hear his confession but your gasp makes his head snap up, and suddenly he looks like a wild animal that’s been cornered with no way to escape.  His eyes dart around, looking for an exit. An exit which you were not prepared to give him.

Silence falls again between you, though much more tense than before; the ambient noises of cars honking and faint laughter and conversations rise up from below.  You watch him carefully and see his Adam’s apple bob up and down as he swallows nervously.

“What,” your voice cracks, barely getting through the whole word with your breath coming unevenly.  You could feel your heart racing, a staccato beat you wouldn’t be able to reproduce with your pen bouncing off of your notes tomorrow.

You hope you heard right

No, you know you did.

Over the years, you’ve gotten good at deciphering mumbly Mingi, as he was a frequent guest whenever you were studying for tests or researching for presentations.

With a start, you realize his hand is still over yours, the heat of his skin combating well against the cold night wind.  Your sudden jerk snaps him out of whatever fearful trance he was in and he starts to take his hand away from yours.  You weren’t having that.  You were not going to have the man you love literally at your fingertips and let him go.  You flip your hand over and grab onto his wrist before he can pull away completely.

With your fingers feeling like they’re burning from adrenaline, you tug on his arm, tilting your head until you meet his eyes.  The dark brown you normally find comfort in is filled with wariness.  You could feel his hand tremble slightly and the weight of the moment hits you with such a force you could almost feel dizzy.   Whatever you said or did next would make or break the nearly nine-and-a-half-year relationship you’ve had with him.

Licking your lips due to nerves, you pull his hand towards you slightly, just enough to cradle his in both of yours.  You look down at his hand where it’s cradled in yours for a moment, tracing the lines of his palm and the veins of his wrist with your eyes to remind yourself that you don’t need to be scared.  You already heard him confess. It’s your turn now.

It was a testament to how much Mingi trusted you that, despite his inner turmoil, he still sat next to you and let you touch him.  You cover his hand with both of yours and look up again.

“Is that why you remember them, Min? Because you were jealous?”  Inhale.  “Because you love me, too?”  Exhale, if shakily.

You can see the change in his eyes when what you say clicks.  “Too?”  He asks, voice as shaky as yours was.

“You’re so naïve sometimes; I can’t believe I love you so much when you do things like this,” you parrot back to him, a grin breaking out across your face and you, too helpless to stop it.  “Mingi, I’ve liked you pretty much the entire time I’ve known you.”

His eyes shine in the light around you and you’re sure your eyes are just the same as you both try to not cry from relief.  The heaviness, the burden that you had felt at the beginning of the night, had finally disappeared.  Both of you just stare at each other with dopey grins, truly letting it sink in that the person each other loved, the one they thought unattainable, loved them back.  Full of happiness, you bring Mingi’s hand to your lips, leaving a soft kiss on his knuckles like he was royalty.  And you decide, after he flushes a beautiful pink, you’re probably definitely going to do it again.

Mingi’s other hand comes up, pushing some fallen strands of hair from out of your face, before gently cupping your face, his warm hand feeling like a branding iron against the wind-bitten cold of your cheek.  The both of you lean forward, like raindrops combining on a window, and he traces his thumb along your bottom lip.

Can I kiss you, the unspoken question.

You nod ever so slightly and press your lips to his.

Yes.  Always.  Forever.  The unspoken reply.