#the other mouse is shot but this one is quickly just captured

[ceiling-karasu]

Squirrel and Hedgehog Shipping Polls

I’m heading out to the Caribbean this weekend for a family vacation, so this poly ship should make for a warm discussion from the suggestions and prompts in the tags.

The captured Field Mouse from episode two, and his hedgehog Guards.

[aclowntiny]

The Other Members Catch You Two Together- Seventeen

Returning this post fixed & breakdown free 🤙🏻 Warnings: 🤏🏻 suggestive at times, lil language, very minor injury mention

S.Coups

♡ "You have to be more careful, ok?" "I wasn't exactly trying to fall and skin my knee," you giggled at your boyfriend's mother-hen chastising.

♡ Usually you were just as caring, having fawned over other Seventeen members enough times that some of them shot jokingly suggestive glances to Seungcheol about you, not knowing he was already your boyfriend and they had the step-parent they all seemed to desire.

♡ Shaking his head, Seungcheol peeled the little protective tabs off the bandage and stuck it gently to your knee, giving it a cute little pat to stay down.

♡ “Thank you, doctor,” you teased from the counter he’d set you on, looking down at him from your boosted height with fluttering lashes. “Anytime, love. Just be careful, ok?” He asked, hands sliding to your sides. “Ok,” you agreed, a pleasant shiver running up your body, “but I must admit I like my doctor a lot.” “Your doctor likes you,” your boyfriend smiled, pulling you closer by your waist into a lean and pressing his lips to yours.

♡ “Hey, Coups, where’s the- whoa! Seungcheol! (y/n)!” The voice of mock-scandal echoing through the open air of the restroom belonged to Jeonghan, who remained in the doorway smirking at you two. “Don’t worry, I won’t tell.” “Oh, great, that’s kind of-” “I won’t tell if…” “One moment,” your boyfriend squeezed your hand before pulling his bandmate aside, gaze intense.

Jeonghan

♡ "Come on, lazy bones! Get up!" Usually, you were the only one who had much convincing power over Jeonghan. Some of the other members had their suspicions on that, most of them shrugged and accepted Jeonghan for the enigma he was.

♡ Today, though, that power seemed to be waning, as your boyfriend just shook his head, shimmying deeper into the couch cushions if that was possible. All you wanted was to take him on a little outing, but you knew how he got. Shaking your head, you just gave him an exasperated smile and eyeroll. "Alright, if that's how it's going to be..."

♡ You plopped gently on top of him, rolling your eyes again at his smile of victory as his arms wrapped around you. "...then I'm going to squish you!" "Squish away," Jeonghan replied simply, rubbing his cheek lightly against yours. Like it or not, that man was your favorite pillow, your weakness as much as everybody else's, and you caved against his touch instantly, body relaxing atop his warmth.

♡ Sliding his cheeks over a bit, he pressed his lips to yours, pecking you multiple times until you took hold of the back of his head, keeping him still for a real kiss. Because you knew if you were going to up the ante, so was he, and this time was no exception: your slow, sweet kiss quickly turned into parted lips, Jeonghan's tongue darting lightly between them as his hands slid up and down your back. Both of you were smiling into the newfound makeout session, your legs melting down to start wrapping around him...

♡ "Oh my God! Alright, leaving the room, LEAVING!" Jolting upright, you peeked over the back of the couch to see Seungkwan scurrying like a chased mouse back out of the living room, hand clapped over his eyes to avoid even one more look at his roommate. You couldn't help laughing, but you still asked Jeonghan if he should go talk to him. "Hmmm," he pretended to think, tapping his head before slinking his hands about your waist again, "maybe later."

Joshua

♡ You leaned against the side of the bed like a lovestruck cartoon teen as Joshua strummed his guitar, shooting those same heart eyes back to you. All of Seventeen knew you as his good friend, and you guys had yet to break the news that your connection went beyond that. The time to yourselves, though, was absolute bliss.

♡ "Alright, enough practice, I have a song just for you," Joshua spoke softly, strumming momentarily paused as he further captured your attention. Soon, sweet notes started up again, this time accompanied by Joshua's heavenly voice.

♡ It had been a while since you two got time together like that, and maybe Joshua was feeling it too, as he sang you Ed Sheeran's Photograph. Corny, sure, but you didn't care for one moment as he sang about love captured in pictures, keeping him forever close to you in the pocket of your jeans or in a locket by your heart.

♡ "I love you," you whispered as he finished the song, your head spinning and heart swelling with all the sweet words from his lips and stares from his beautiful brown eyes. "I love you, too," he replies, voice still soft as he sets his guitar on the bed, leaning down to place a kiss on your forehead.

♡ "That's so sweet!" Both of you shifted back, jumping to face the doorway where Jun stood, fake sobbing. "I think I might cry." Relief flooded Joshua's expression as he shook his head, but Jun immediately swore secrecy. "You're the best." "Anything for my cute lovebirds!" "He's going to call us that forever, isn't he?"

Jun

♡ You bring out Jun's silly side for sure, but nobody questions your playful behavior as much more than friendship. At least most of the time...

♡ Enamored is the only word you could think of to describe how much you love your new outfit. It fits like a glove, embodies your style, you name it, it has it. You love it so much, in fact, Jun decides it's photoshoot time.

♡ So there he is, bent over at a ridiculous angle because he insists that's how the photographers do it and laughing because you can't take him seriously, striking hilarious over-the-top poses in response. "There we go! Work it, (y/n)!" Jun jokes back, beaming as he takes the opportunity to capture plenty of silly photos of the one he loves most.

♡ It is in the midst of the sweet moment of joy for Jun that Seokmin walks up, giggling at the praise and calls of 'work it' coming from his hyung. "You like (y/n), don't you? That's so cute!" Jun tries not to freeze too hard, fails, glances at you as you exchange a nod.

♡ "It's not just that he likes me," you answer Seokmin with a grin and another pose, this one with a heart, "he's dating me!" The way the singer's jaw dropped was hilarious enough you wish Jun had turned the camera on him to capture it before it melted into a smile, Jun and you getting scooped up in a celebratory hug.

Hoshi

♡ You’re the one more concerned about keeping it from the guys, worried how they would react to you being more than friends with one of the large friend group.

♡ Soonyoung however? Respects you but doesn’t personally give a shit, so pushing the boundaries is fun for him. He just wants to climb a mountain and scream to the world how he feels about you!

♡ Instead of a mountain, though, his climb is into bed with you after a night spent with the guys. Kicking his shoes off, Soonyoung gleefully slides under the sheets of the bed you recline in, laying on his side to face you as close as humanly possible. "Soonyoung, what if someone sees?" You ask between giggles as he pulls you into him. "Is that really so bad? I'm used to the teasing and I can give it right back. Besides, Chan'll do something that has them back to teasing him in no time." Leaning the mere centimeters it takes to close the gap, Soonyoung captures your lips in a short but deep kiss that has your tired heart doing gymnastics. Your eyes soften and he kisses you again and again until all your spinning head can do is agree. "Alright, maybe we should tell them."

♡ The problem here? In the morning, Wonwoo, having passed by that very room after you'd left it, spotted Soonyoung's kicked-off shoes and socks piled suspiciously near your own outerwear, clearly has the wrong impression. It all starts to dawn on you as he avoids your eyes, laughs to himself. You kick Soonyoung under the table, nod Wonwoo's way.

♡ "Uh, Wonwoo? Can I talk to you for a second?" Soonyoung looks to you for approval, and though mentally you're smacking your forehead you just nod him off from your adjacent seat. You can still hear faint traces of the conversation around the corner, yours and Soonyoung's chairs having been nearest the doorway, chuckling as you catch your boyfriend calling his bandmate a pervert before shuffling around the corner with him again, Wonwoo shaking his head as Soonyoung gives you a thumbs-up.

Wonwoo

♡ Private in general, Wonwoo doesn’t struggle to hide his relationship with you and just keep it between you and him. He isn’t crazy for PDA or anything, so you two easily pass as very close friends.

♡ However, you guys got a little too comfortable once and that was your downfall. It all started when you bust out a silly little war simulator game from your childhood, challenging your boyfriend to a round or two which he gladly accepted.

♡ It played on a handheld console, so you two could just sit together and pass the switch at the end of your turn. You started the match at each other’s side, sneaking glances at Wonwoo’s activity as he teasingly held the screen up from you.

♡ Subconsciously, though, you drew closer, knees brushing, thighs overlapping and arms flush, until without even realizing you’d done it you’d made your way into Wonwoo’s lap, your boyfriend opening his posture a bit to hold you more comfortably like the puzzle pieces your bodies were. You played like that with no thoughts save for strategizing about how to advance your units and hints of distraction at the sensation of your back against Wonwoo’s chest.

♡ Thank the stars above, it was Minghao who found you like that, stopping after a small double-take to lean against the doorframe, arms crossed in teasing satisfaction as he nodded your way. "So, when did this happen, hm?"

Woozi

♡ Neither of you were exactly all over each other, so in your minds this was a secret you could practically keep forever if you wanted to.  The special treatment you gave Jihoon was so subtle the guys didn’t really pick up on it, which was part of what made it so fun!

♡ Having an intelligent, practical boyfriend, after all, it wasn’t out of the question that his ideas simply were just frequently good enough for you to agree with.  And it if was a music question?  They already trusted his decision without you liking his version better.  The fact that you wore his favorite color a lot and always seemed to bring by his favorite snacks just went over their heads when they were asking you a thousand other questions about arrangements or even whose joke was better.

♡ Your downfall happened the day you were torn on your decision.  Two of Seventeen’s leaders had come to you with varying song opinions, and as you listened to both Jihoon and Seungcheol’s versions, you really liked them both.  One definitely had a more subtle approach, but did that suit the song’s nature?  After a bit of convincing, you still went with Jihoon’s version, much to Seungcheol’s teasing as he left the studio to get a drink.

♡ “You almost betrayed me!”  Jihoon teased you as you jokingly sidled to his chair.  “His version was good,” you protested, “I had to be honest!  Besides, can’t make it too obvious how much I favor you, right?”  “Fair enough,” Jihoon replied with a small smile, reaching up from his seat to cup your cheek, pulling your lips into his.

♡ A few crackling thuds snapped you out of your warm reverie, the feeling of his soft touch.  Jumping back, you saw Seungcheol standing in the doorway, open hand having clearly dropped his water bottle.  Still sealed, luckily.  Slowly, a devilish knowing smile spread across his face.  “Oh my God.  That makes so much sense, actually.”

DK

♡ Seventeen is confused as all getout watching you two interact because they’re just besties right??? Wait they totally like each other???

♡ You and Seokmin are very close, obviously. He’s always shooting you hearts and you’re always bringing him along on snack runs and laughing uncontrollably over some stupid joke you two made. It definitely comes across as potentially flirty…

♡…probably because you guys have been dating for two whole months without having any direct conversations about it, all the other members too confused by the dynamic to directly ask if the shift they’ve perceived has actually occurred. You guys are shy enough not to kiss in front of the members and show off all the affection Seokmin loves showering you with when it’s just you two.

♡ So by the time you’ve just assumed everyone knew, it’s when that PDA comfort has had a natural unspoken increase and what’s it to you guys or anyone around you if Seokmin puts his arm around you as you sit on the couch, looking at you with the adoring eyes that were nothing new.

♡ “Look guys, look! See, I told you! I knew it!” Gaze swiveling to the other side of the room, you and Seokmin catch Mingyu’s frantic exclamations as he points your way, drawing the equally energetic Soonyoung to laugh and shout too. “You didn’t know?” Seokmin just asks, smiling widely as his protective grip proudly tightens a bit, bringing a wider smile to your own lips at the warmth. “How could we? You two are so confusing!” Soonyoung shoots back. “I dunno,” you shrug, eyes falling back to meet your boyfriend’s with your own glint of pride, “makes sense to me.”

Mingyu

♡ “Here, let me help you.” “Mingyu, I’m washing my hands!” You giggle. “Oh, all right.” The bug had gotten into your head about baking and Mingyu finally caved when you’d been shopping together and found the cutest sprinkles to go with your sugar cookie recipe.

♡ Sticky dough coats your hands and connects your fingers before you put them under the warm running water, feeling the chunks break up and float away from your skin. The cookies are all in the oven now. “Now what should we do while we wait?”

♡ “I can think of a few things,” Mingyu replies mischievously and without hesitation, stepping behind you to snake his arms around your waist. “Honey,” you use the nickname that always makes his beautifully matching skin blush, “aren’t the rest of the guys coming back here?” You are in your boyfriend’s dorms, after all.

♡ “Not for a bit unless anyone’s planning on being early. Knowing Seventeen, not likely,” he says, “so what do you say?” Before you can respond he’s scooping you up in his arms and any protest rising to your lips falls off in favor of a happy squeak as you’re set gingerly upon a clean section of the counter. Your gaze is just about even with Mingyu’s as your hands find his shoulders, his firmly holding your hips as he leans in for a kiss. Giving in as you so often did, you deepened it almost immediately, moving faster before you feel his tongue slide its way between your lips-

♡ “Oh, I’m so sorry, I’ll come back later.” The warmth of Mingyu’s hands leaves your hips as he steps back, chastising mutters immediately leaving his lips. Your eyes fly back open to see poor (and very flustered-looking) Joshua getting chased out of the kitchen by your boyfriend, him whining about the gentleman’s punctuality all the while. Hopping off the counter, you can’t help but chuckle and check the cookies with a fond shake of your head. You knew what you were getting into all along.

The8

♡ oh you KNOW y’all are pros at hiding it you go MONTHS without a hint of suspicion 😌

♡ It literally takes a moment of fate to orchestrate the downfall of your secrecy, all the stars aligning perfectly and imperfectly for one outing.

♡ The two if you had gone to peruse a pop-up gallery while it was in your neck of the woods, taking a stroll through the small room of sculptures brought in for the event. The theme was the sea, many of the pieces perfectly capturing crashing waves, breaching whales, the beautiful glistening arcs and fascinations of earth’s mysterious water.

♡ Never would you have expected to run into any of the guys there until you heard the voices behind you. “This one’s cool, I love how the- hey, wait, isn’t that Minghao and (y/n)?” Minghao wanted to keep moving, but the second voice agreed and at that point you turned around, recognizing them easily as Soonyoung and Jihoon.

♡ “I didn’t know you guys hung out just the two of you!” “Soonyoung,” Jihoon hissed as he elbowed him, “he probably asked (y/n) on a date.” “Why would you assume this is a date?” Minghao shot back. “The way (y/n) was holding your arm,” Soonyoung shrugged before leaning in, challenge glinting in his eyes, “but if it’s not, you’ll be fine if we come with.” Glancing surreptitiously between him and you, Minghao finally sighs. “All right, fine, it’s a date. We’ve been together for almost six months.” “SIX MONTHS? I didn’t even know you liked each other!” Minghao and you can’t help exchanging smirks at that, and you feel his hip bump yours playfully.

Seungkwan

♡ “There’s a little private corner just for us!” You and Seventeen were on a trip, so naturally with such a number of people you guys were staying in a huge-ass house. Unpacking was going to take a while, but hey, who’d miss two out of fourteen people, right? Having scoped out the house, you ran off with Seungkwan down the hall to the furthest spare room.

♡ It was maybe intended as a child or teenager’s room, one corner occupied largely by a massive pile of cushions nearly the size of beanbags. Well, you could work with that. “What’s this?” “It looks comfortable,” you shot back, pulling Seungkwan closer, “doesn’t it?”

♡ The moment he relented you tumbled into the pile and he joined you, giggling and taking hold of each other for stability. That didn’t last long, though, Seungkwan rolling ever-so-slightly on top of you…

♡ Heat radiated from the press of his body to yours, the warm feeling drawing you in like a lifeline until you tugged him forward by his button-up collar, your lips on his. He responded almost immediately, adding to the electricity sparked between you as his arms fell about your waist. Your plush haven, the feeling of Seungkwan’s lips sliding gently over yours, all of it was heaven…

♡…Heaven broken by a scream that had you heaving up into a seated position, Seungkwan himself scrambling off of you to face the doorway, where Chan stood going off like a siren. “Oh God, my eyes! What the hell, you guys! Ugh!” Like a call to action Chan’s shouts drew member after member toward the room to see what was wrong, the maknae spilling the beans anew. Well, so much for who’d catch two out of fourteen.

Vernon

♡ You guys are just grabbing ice cream nbd

♡ Not even super datelike of an activity for someone to catch you guys in honestly because y'all aren't that sappy of a couple. Vernon and you just wanted ice cream, so of course he was gonna treat you!

♡ As if y’all are living in a drama your ice cream developed a mind of its own, completely missing its trajectory as you raised the cone to your lips, a cold vanilla-base droplet spotting your cheek. “Do you have a napkin?” You ask Vernon, letting go of his hoodie edge and extending the newly emptied hand, but his eyes are fixed on the little drip. “Nah,” he chuckled teasingly, pressing his lips to your cheek and bringing a flush to them as you feel his tongue swipe the ice cream off gently beneath the kiss.

♡ “Uhhh, that’s not usually how you get ice cream off of your friends,” jokes a clearly awkward voice at your backs. Turning, you’re faced with Jun and Jeonghan, cones in hand and wince on face in Jun’s case.

♡ “Come on Jun, I told you Hansol was into (y/n) ever since he magically got into Animal Crossing,” Jeonghan shot back, arms crossed, “I’ve never seen him throw himself into anything faster.” He turned his proud gaze back to you guys. “So, what’ll you do to keep this a secret, huh?” For that, Jun elbowed him.

Dino

♡ Chan is DEAD SET on keeping things between you two for at least a little while and you’re not offended because you know the sole reason has nothing to do with you and everything to do with the relentless teasing of his hyungs.

♡ So when you guys get together for a private dance lesson, Chan just plays it off as needing the space to film a danceology.

♡ Instead he’s teaching you how to count steps, the most comfortable way to hold onto him- which you certainly didn’t feign a lack of understanding in to get to touch him that much more. Any wishes in that department, however, are soon granted once music fills the little studio.

♡ Chan is at your back, doing your steps with you as if he had the follow’s feet, gripping first your arms to steady you and then shamelessly sliding down to your waist. Turning your head sideways, you feel the warmth of his breath, take it in yourself as your lips hit his, receiving a forceful response the moment they connect. Before you’ve even begun dancing Chan is spinning you in his arms, this time so you could face him as he tilts your chin up, leans in hungrily for another kiss that you gladly give him, your hips flush against his…

♡ “Oh, I see why you wanted the room.” You step back, using the hands you’d placed on his chest to practically shove Chan off of you, though his hand instinctively took yours, keeping you only the bare minimum below your flush proximity. Vernon is standing there with smug amusement all over his face, corner of his mouth rising further as he glances between you two. “Whoa, it’s not like that!” You protest, heat blooming beneath your own features. “Really? I kind of thought it was.” “Chan! You are not helping our case right now.”

[mischiefmaker615]

Love Me Harder

Inspiration: Love Me Harder by Ariana Grande & The Weekend

Summary: Who will break their stubbornness first to finally say how they feel?

Rating: R

Requester: @queenoffiresign88

Note: pardon for the wait, and this is a rather long one shot Lol this is what my brain honestly came up with when i heard this song request *sweats*

Loki’s grip tightened around the young maiden’s waist, pulling her flush against him as she rested her chin against his shoulder with a gasp. He smirked at the sound, burying his face in her soft hair while he led them both into another spin. his hand gripped hers with dominant pressure, flicking his eyes over to make sure the woman across from him that clung to another man was watching.

The prince of Asgard was not only skilled at making people believe that he could get any woman that breathed, he was also skilled at playing them against each other. Jealousy was one of the most amusing things to watch unfold and it wasn’t uncommon for maidens to get into fights with each other if they thought they were defending his heart.

Not that anyone has even captured it before. Not until.. she came around.

She was of royal blood, often attending these balls whenever Asgard decided to host them, and immediately upon setting eyes upon her he knew.. she was different. She had grace, control and beauty; often shooing away the men that would try to pursue her before her eyes would flick over towards his. His breath would hold, her gaze almost seemed to pierce his as it seemed to be a game at who would turn away first.

She would sometimes play along with these men, flirting back or giving them a dance or two before she would dismiss their existence, always making sure to look his way with any form of contact she would donate here and there. Loki’s heart would tighten, anger would boil his blood before the maiden’s yelp he was with would remind him to lighten his hold.

As they would talk to others, dance and uphold their masks, they would send glances at each other before continuing their activities. Always. A game.. if you will. One Loki was quickly wanting over as soon as she would up the challenge and begin the physical contact. That would be his que to ask another maiden to dance, to flirt with his finger under her chin or to create the delicious illusion that he was taking her to bed with him only to deposit her as soon as they reached the door.

Upon returning to the ballroom, he would steal the quick look of relief before she would resume her fake facade, making him smirk at her jealousy.

A cat and mouse game whose roles would often switch up. Who was she?

It has been at least three months of almost endless festivities and through that time of silently tormenting each other, no one has made the move to speak. Why lose? Give in and submit? That wasn’t Loki’s style and by the surprising amount of time that had passed with still no sign of her making actual contact with him, he figured it wasn’t hers either. Not until.. they bumped into each other.

He had just ended another dance, his mind having been distracted at how many ways he could get her out of that silky, skin tight dress that flowed below her hips when his grip slipped from his dance partners- sending him back to regain his footing before his back pressed lightly against a feminine frame.

Turning around, his eyes failed to hide his surprise when she stood before him, regaining her footing as well as the man behind her stumbled back. Loki didn’t know if he was angry or amused at the fact that they had both played and failed at their own game where they stood to face each other now. Her cheeks reddened at her own realization before she straightened herself and brushed her dress self-consciously. She had even upped the stakes by wearing his colors and his eyes shamelessly took all of her in.

‘’it seems we haven’t been properly acquainted,’’ Loki flashed her his charming smile as he held a hand out to her, the disregarded woman long forgotten as soon as her perfume filled his nostrils. Gods she smelled heavenly.. more than he had thought she would..

She offered him her own casual smile, one that showed how unbothered she was as she placed a hand in his and tilted her head down with a respectful bow. ‘’it would seem so, my Prince, though I would be quite surprised for anyone to not know who you are where they’d need an introduction.’’

Loki smirked and brought her knuckles to his lips, brushing them against her soft skin and lingered, not quite wanting it to end as he held eye contact with her. ‘’my prince? I was unaware I belonged to a beautiful maiden.’’

The blush on her cheeks was enough for him to claim victory as he practically kicked down her proud walls she had forced him to stay behind all these months and lightly tightened his grip on her hand when she tried to retrieve it back. ‘’ah ah darling, I do believe we have some things to talk about..’’ he smirked, moving to rest her hand at his bicep, his hand remaining on hers as he kept her at his side and walked.

He could feel her body tense but the very smell of her arousal was driving him mad, making him walk at a faster pace where she clutched her dress to help her walk with him. it would seem she was just as hot and bothered as he was, feeling the pressure build in his pants as he tried to ignore it for now.

‘’-what is it that you wish to discuss?’’ she asked dumbly and he smirked, knowing she was going to play the denial game while he weaved them through the crowd, ignoring the jealous stares and comments as he passed his previous partners. To her surprise, he moved them off the dance floor and towards the halls.

‘’it’s what we’ve been discussing for quite some time darling, only no one has let it leave their lips.’’ He tsked, taking in a sharp breath as her chest pressed lightly against his arm as she looked at him while they walked.

‘’you’re going to tell me something I need to know..’’ his voice quieted although there was a lot less people around as they entered the garden area, a greenhouse not to far away with roses framing the sidewalks beside them.

‘’and if I don’t?’’ she asked, almost an amused tone in her voice as she flicked her eyes over to him, trying to regain her proud composure but he wasn’t having that.

‘’you will darling, don’t deny yourself the relief you crave..’’ he smirked, his hand abandoning her arm now to move around her waist, holding her body close to his side while they walked.

Her muscles made no move to push him away, her body remaining tense towards the unknown before her but she was more relaxed than he expected. Not that he knew this day would come where they’d finally- properly converse. A game he thought would last forever, with the forever want to actually meet each other.. come to an end.

 Her frame was almost fragile, strong with tone muscles yet soft skin like she hadn’t worked a day as his hand lay against her lower back where the dress ran open. His fingers twitched at remembering the feeling of her hand in his, making him curious as to what other places he could explore that held the same softness of skin besides her back and delicate hands.

‘’relief?’’ she whispered, echoing his previous statement that made him chuckled. She could only fake this for so long before she would give in to what was at hand and he even caught a small tug at her lips as she stopped herself from smiling.

‘’there’s much we wish to get off our chest, like what your name might be? I’ve often wondered..’’ Loki confessed, reaching out his free hand to open the door to the greenhouse and led them both in, closing the door behind them as she took a couple steps further forward.

‘’I wonder if your guesses might be insulting or close to it’s answer,’’ she laughed and turned so she was looking up at him, her hands resting against his chest as his height made him tilt his head down slightly. ‘’my name is Y/N’’ she smiled and his expression softened, practicing the name on his tongue.

‘’Y/N.. quite the beautiful name love.. now..’’ Slowly, he took a step back to gaze upon her with a gently expression, her hands moving to her sides as her own expression became serious. ‘’I know your motives and you know mine..’’

‘’I don’t-‘’

‘’do not lie to me Y/N, you do not want to play that game I assure you..’’ he smirked before looking at serious as she, seeing her drop the fake state she had stayed in and was ready to talk.

‘’within these months of our little game.. using people to make each other jealous,’’ he started carefully, seeing there was no move to deny anything from her. ‘’I have come to realize that no one seems to matter. Frankly, the only reason why I attend those ridiculous festivals is within the hopes upon seeing you there.’’

Her eyes seemed to subtly light up but there was no surprise in them. In fact, her own expression seemed to show she had similar feelings as she shifted in place and captured her bottom lip with her teeth. Loki could tell there was room for doubt by her lingering silence as he inhaled, about to speak until she beat him to it.

‘’you have a representation you know..’’ she said, letting the statement sit as she slowly began walking along the walls of the greenhouse, the moonlight shining through to enhance her beautiful skin while Loki stayed put to watch. The flowers gently brushed against her as she looked around, wanting her eyes elsewhere than on him right now as guilt seemed to tap him on the shoulder.

‘’ The ones that love me, I tend to leave behind.. very rare have I bedded a woman,.. the want only came back when my eyes laid upon you..’’

‘’ah, so it is lust that has you?’’ she asked, a slight bitterness to her tone as she looked over her shoulder at him and he shook his head.

‘’beautiful, yes. But what drew me to you was how you held yourself. You had your head tilted high, showing grace and confidence yet you owned the ability to switch and show politeness and compassion when you saw fit. These women that attend,’’ he waved behind him as he slowly began following her as she proceeded to walk around again. ‘’all wish to bed. All of them. Fuck and leave.’’ His derogatory words had her inhale and slow her walking again. ‘’they are all the same.. you,. Dear Y/N, have personality, uniqueness.. life.. a creature that would never think to look upon one such as me-‘’

‘’but I did..’’ she corrected, turning towards him as they stopped to look at each other with only two strides in front.

‘’I am a monster.. a demon facing an angel.. I cannot change what I am, nor who I am- though on rare occasions I will try. Within these three months, you saw what I was, who I am, and still chose to play this game.’’ He slowly clasped his hands together behind his back, merely leaning forward with a dangerous look in his eyes while she inhaled with no fear.

‘’why?’’

Her eyes were on him, gently and listening. Ot was almost like two friends that knew everything about each other, a comfort environment although they’ve only known each other brief with strict observation only. Why did it feel like they’ve know each other? A strange connection?.. and by her careful breathing, he awaited the truth as her eyes struggled to stay on his.

‘’..words are hard to explain it.. but I grew instantly fond of your presence.. even seeing you with those women i.. I could feel it was all fake, like you searched for something real same as i.. our strange.. relationship we’ve shared at these festivals.. it subtly grew into something.. and although you get off on mild cruelty and chaos towards others, I know I can accept that with what else you have with it.’’

Loki straightened a little, his eyes seeming to search her and found no lies behind her words. A careful step was taken, moving closer as she stood her ground and seemed to welcome his closeness when he stopped just in front of her. A gently hand rested at her chin as he slowly tilted it up so her eyes could look upon him and he was smiling. “Y/N.. If you know about me and choose to stay.. then take this pleasure and take it with the pain”

Her hands slowly rose up, resting at his chest and felt his heart beating just as fast as hers- even though his expression was well at hiding it.

‘’it is clear to me that we both seek a courtship.. a demand to be in each other’s presence, to seek out what secrets and moments we could bring out in each other.. my dear Y/N you’ve toyed with me for far to long and I do not wish to anger you by making the wrong choices..’’ Loki whispered, his hand slowly moving from her chin, his finger tips ghosting over her skin as he seemed to trace her collarbone while his eyes lazily followed and now and again would flick up to hers.

‘’chaos is in my nature, but it will never purposefully be inflicted on you.. although there will be no doubt of you being trapped in the crossfire.. I know that you are willing to accept me, but..’’ his eyes moved to hers and his hand stilled against his skin, having rested just above where her cleavage started. ‘’what will it take to keep you devoted to me? I am the demon but what will keep this angel grounded forever?’’

Her eyes had fluttered closed upon his touch, listening to every word and confession where his voice seemed to envelope her with his warmth. Upon his question, him asking what will basically make her stay, to keep loving him, for there to be no doubt that this game they had played will become real or continue, her eyes opened and her voice spoke with the same hushed tone.

“If you want to keep me, you’ve got to love me harder..”

Loki heard her words and slowly began sinking to his knees before her; him, a prince, a prince in his very own palace now kneeling before her as her eyes followed him down and her eyes widened at the sight. His fingers rested at her ankles, not once breaking eye contact as they slowly caressed up behind her calves and knees.

‘’oh sweet Y/N.. I will love you harder.. try harder.. want you more than any man you have ever known.. tonight I will bestow my devotion on you.. a god begging to worship than be worshipped.. tonight, if you’ll have me.. our courtship begins..’’

Her eyes closed as she exhaled, not realizing she had held it at slightly shaky hands moved to rest upon his armored shoulders. Her finger tips just brushed against where his silk cape connected and her wrists welcomed the softness of his hair. Her legs felt almost weak, feeling his arm, slender hands caress her legs that made their way up and now rested at the back of her thighs, pausing for permission as her eyes fluttered open and she looked down at his eagerness.

‘’I’ll have you Loki..’’ she whispered as a smile tugged at the corner of his lips before his thumbs hooked into her panties before he slowly pulled them down.

He kept his sly comment to himself, making a mental note to compliment her undergarment style later as she used his shoulders for balance and he helped them off. He could lay her down, she was far gone to really be bothered by the dirt but he was kneeled as a symbol. An example. A pledge of devotion that he himself, a royal will bow down before her for her heart; and she was more than willing.

He had been able to smell her arousal all evening yet the sight of her center as he moved her dress aside by the cut openings by her legs to the dress had his pupils blown instantly. His muscles tensed, forcing himself to go slow and savor as he looked up into her eyes one last time, excitement and shyness building before her features and he couldn’t resist giving her a winning smirk.

The blush came to her cheeks and he took a moment to admire it, the moonlight highlighting her perfectly before he dipped his head forward and slowly ran his tongue against her center. His fingers curled against his shoulders while her muscles tensed under his hands. They began tubbing her thighs soothingly, almost in rhythm as he liked in stripes while she moved her legs apart ever so slightly while they shook.

He began suckling on her clit, moving a hand to tease her entrance while he moaned at her very taste. She tasted heavenly, it almost was enough to have him cum as he shifted where he kneeled to rid of some of the pressure. This will be about her, not him right now. His moans sent vibrations to her core, having a gasp leave her mouth as her head leaned back as she looked to the sky with distracted sight.

He lapped at her clit, taking terms sucking and flicking his tongue while his finger ghosted in and out of her. Her hips seemed to move, wanting him to insert but he smirked against her, wanting to tease her a little bit. Her fingers tangled themselves in his hair now, tightening their hold with built up pleasure and frustration that had him groaning in her cunt.

Giving in, he slowly began pumping her, curling as he pulled back just to push back in to his knuckle. Her body shivered, shaking now as her soft moans formulated more into his name until she began panting it. She held him close, not wanting him to stop as his movements quickened, bringing her closer and closer to that beautiful edge until he pulled his hand away and replaced his finger with his tongue.

His hands gripped her thighs, running up to knead her ass while he pulled her closer into his face, tongue fucking her as her mouth opened with a silent gasp before she came. Her body tensed and seized as he kept on lapping her, her fingers gripping his shoulders for balance as she moaned and buckled while her body road it out. Loki helped her, ever so slowly bringing his mouth to a halt before he pulled away, gazing up at her with her essence still on his chin while he grinned.

Her legs were shaky but she slowly sank down to them, leaning forward so she could bury her face in his chest. His arms wrapped around her, holding her close as they caught their breaths and his fingers gently stroked her hair. He rested his chin on top of her head, her scent still caressing his senses as she shifted closer against his lap, his breath sucking in as she brushed up against his strained erection he found difficult to ignore.

Pulling away now yet her hands resting on his knees, she smiled at him with half lidded eyes, the moonlight setting the perfect scene as he rested a hand against her cheek.

‘’your so beautiful..’’ he breathed and her face leaned into his touch.

Her eyes gazed upon him, total surrender and acceptance and looked as if she would be willing to follow him anywhere as her hand rested against his upon her cheek and they could hear distant calls from the palace for his whereabouts. Holding back a rather annoyed look from the callers, he held her gaze and curled his fingers so he held her hand, bringing it against his chest so she could feel his thundering heart beat and offered once again, one of his famous smirks she knew she was bound to see often.

‘’I look forward to this courtship Y/N, and I do believe you owe me a well overdue dance..’’

DM a song for your own Musical Mischief one shot!

Tag List: @foxherder  @asgards-princess-of-mischief @fire-in-her-veinz

[twsted-princess]

Uh Oh.......

So I've been meaning to write this for a while now and this is kinda a new ship..........so yeah. @fumikomiyasaki I wuv you.

Covering up a yawn Leroy's eyes scrunched up as the evening was setting up. His hood was up, hiding his violet locks while he looked around the crowded room. First years were mumbling to themselves, talking about this and that as he leaned against the wall. He saw Henry look down at his watch before letting out a sigh and he couldn't blame him. The headmaster was gone for a while now, something about a new student waking up and it's been about an hour now since the old crow left. The ceremony was just about over too but they were all told to stay put. The chameleon grumbled. The newest episode of Iron Driver KingGunner was gonna be on and he didn't wanna miss it, as he listened in on the other dorm leaders talk among themselves he shuffled around. Maybe he could turn invisible and just leave? No, then Henry would chew him out for it. He could watch it on his phone but the signal in the room was mediocre at best. As his mind wandered off the door suddenly flew open as the headmaster addressed that no, he didn't leave due to a stomach problem. The crowd watched as the tall man walked into the room with a cloaked figure and a weird cat weasel creature. Leroy never saw that kind of beast before, it's mouth was gagged and it was struggling to swipe at Crowley.

The new student's head was down, their ceremonial robes practically dragging on the floor with their hands clasped together. They were scared, Leroy rolled his eyes. Probably a new Ignihyde student from the looks of it as the figure walked slowly towards the mirror. It's face shifting with the smoke as it calls for the new one's name. "M- Maxwell." Maxwell, great so they're two of them now as the taller one stared, aimlessly with the kid perched on his shoulders. The mirror pondered before it spoke. "The color of thy soul is........unknown." Murmurs flooded the crowd, eyes widening as the figure hid into themselves. Now Leroy was curious. This newbie had no magic, their soul is shapeless and grey so there was not a single dorm they belonged to. It's just like a isekai....no that's not possible. But as the commotion bubbled over the cat got out of the metaphorical bag to snatch up the student's spot. And then the fire came, Leroy quickly changed to avoid the blast as the Scarabia leader ran around with his ass on fire as students huddled together, soon enough it was a goose chase trying to get the furball but he noticed the student was trying to get away. To run somewhere and hide but the chaos was too large to escape. Soon the beast decided to take a leap, trying to avoid being captured by the Heartslabyul leader as he smacked the student in the head.

Causing them to let out a rather girlish squeak before the two tumbled to the floor, knocking the hood off as a gasp stopped the panic. Leroy's green eyes widen as he spotted well.......her. Long light brunette hair, the inside locks a rose to almost daisy yellow, one soft blue eye opened and pale pink lips winching in pain as her robe opened to reveal a white nightgown with pink roses scattering the fabric and her feet were bare. The girl then quickly wrapped her black cloak around her, now scared at the eyes on her. She was.......beautiful. Like his favorite magical girl, Strawberry Princess Sugar. It wasn't until a high pitched voice shot him out of his desire to take her hand and guide her away like a prince. "BACK! BACK I SAY!!" A mouse. A talking mouse with a little sewing needle in front of her, swinging it around wildly. "As the royal guard of her Majesty, Queen Melanie Charment of the kingdom of Genovia you will stay back!!!!" The girl quickly grabbed him, bringing him close to her chest and he could hear her call the little rascal Louise. Well.........this is kinda awkward.

[danmainacc]

BABE

Leo gets captured by a Foot Clan member ( you ), but quickly realizes how easily he can fluster you. Flirty and frustrating banter will ensue ;)

Character: Leonardo

Writing-type: One - shot

Warnings: EXTREME INNUENDOS, flirty conversation, leo is a cheeky little shit, reader is easily embarrassed

Author’s note: I FINALLY FINISHED ( and just before you guys came with the torches and pitchforks ) 😅 this was so mindless fr. i don’t think it turned out too great.

...

“You know, the last time someone looked at me like that, we didn’t get out of bed all weekend. Good times,” the turtle smirked, his shit-eating grin making a shiver run down your spine.

“Bravado won’t save you,” you scoffed, ignoring the tinge of red that managed to creep onto your cheeks.

The ninja let out a pleased snicker. “Babe...you’re blushing.”

Your eye made a quick twitch before you angrily grabbed him by the ropes he was tied in, and pulled him up. “You’re in no position to talk so freely, turtle,” you venomously spat, your glare cold, but not without a flicker of warm in it’s depth.

“Keep looking at me like that, and we’ll be in a different position,” he quipped, grinning at the sudden closeness.

Your icy glare turned embarrassed and you let out an aggravated groan, shoving him back into the chair, ignoring the sudden flutter in your stomach....and other region.

‘He is fucking impossible.’

How you got into this sexually tense situation was a long and frustrating story.

But to put it in brass tacks, you had managed to kidnap Leonardo from the turtles’ lair and take him to an abandoned warehouse. You called Casey and the others for backup and they said they would be here shortly.

That was 2 hours ago.

And 2 hours with this pain in the ass of a turtle was making your patience run thin.

“I can’t tell if you’re brave....or just stupid,” you pinched the bridge of your nose, already prepping for his comeback.

“Stupid’s a little harsh, babe, doncha think?” Leo asked with a fake-hurt frown, a ghost of his smirk ever-present.

“You’ve been kidnapped by an enemy, brought to an unknown location, and you haven’t even attempted to escape once. I’d say that’s pretty stupid,” you spelled out, cocking a brow.

He let out a light chuckle, leaning back in the chair and tucking his hands behind his head comfortably, the ropes falling limply to the floor. “Who said I wanted to escape?”

Your eyes practically bugged out your sockets, and you quickly got into a fighting stance. “How the long have you been out?!”

“Babe, I did that 15 minutes in. I’ve been out this whole time. But I enjoy your company so I decided to stay,” he shrugged, his nonchalance poking your last sane nerve.

Without a second thought, you dove for him, knocking the both of you onto the floor. You managed to straddle him and pin his wrists above his head, panting.

“Now it’s a party,” he grinned, shamelessly staring at your breasts.

You turned bright red, quickly slapping a hand over your chest. “Pervert!”

And now he was able to flip the two of you over, him caging you to the floor. “Only for you, babe~.”

The flutter in your stomach...and other region...increased tenfold, making you so bashful that you had to look away from him.

Just then, a wall in the warehouse was blown open, the turtle’s brothers running in through it.

“NARDO! THE CAVALRY HATH ARRI-whoa. Are we interrupting something?” Donnie awkwardly stopped his line upon catching sight of your position.

Leo was straddling you, pinning your hands above your head as his mouth was 2 centimeters away from yours.

You wished the ground would swallow you whole.

“I SWEAR IT’S NOT WHAT IT LOOKS LIKE!” you squeaked, your previously firm tone now that of a mouse.

“I wish it was,” Leo sighed through gritted teeth, slightly annoyed that his brothers interrupted the moment.

“LEO! SHE’S FOOT CLAN!” Raph gasped, disappointed, yet proud of his brother’s rizz.

“Alright, big bro! I see you!” Mikey hyped, giving his blue brother a wink/thumbs up combo.

“This can’t be happening,” you groaned, Leo letting go of your wrists and allowing you to cover your face in embarrassment.

“It’s happening, sweetheart,” Leo groaned as well, more at the fact that his brothers were still interrupting the moment.

“Look, just wrap up whatever,” Raph pinched the bridge of his snout, “this is, and then meet us at the tank. Okay?”

“Will do,” Leo nodded, his happiness returning as his brothers left, Mikey not leaving before giving his brother one more thumbs up.

Leo finally got off you, helping you stand up and dust yourself off, your cheeks still glowing with embarrassment.

“Well it’s clear I have to go now,” he sighed, his thumb pointing to the new hole in the wall.

“Did you mean it?” you thoughtlessly asked, looking him in the eye with a look that, for once, wasn’t angry or cold.

It was....warm....and nervous.

It took him aback for a moment. “Mean what?”

“All the things you said before....or were you just trying to distract me,” the sudden regret began to seep in, and it was making you feel more sheepish by the second.

‘Of course he was trying to distract you, idiot. What kind of question was that? What answer do you even want?!’

And as if he could read your mind, he carefully grabbed you by your waist and pulled you into his plastron. 

He used to fingers to lift your chin, and met your gaze with the most sincere look you had ever seen.

His eyes asked for silent permission, and without even knowing what it was, you nodded, all logic and reason going out the window.

A smile twitched on his lips and he slowly leaned down placing a long peck on the corner of your mouth.

A flurry of emotions raged in your stomach as he did, and while it made you feel lighter than air itself, it also made your heart weight heavy in your chest.

When he pulled away, he held your gaze again, his smile slowly melting into a smirk.

“Babe....I always say what I mean.”

And with that, he let go. Slowly, of course. He wanted to drag out this wonderful moment for as long as he could.

He whipped out his odachi and quickly opened a portal, walking through, but not without shooting you a wink and blowing a goodbye kiss.

And there you stood.

In the middle of a random warehouse. Dumbfounded.

You hand slowly found it’s way to the spot where he kissed, and turned red at the sudden buzz that coursed through your fingertips, the realization finally hitting you.

“He kissed me.”

...

[froggos-are-superior]

Best lines of every death note song and why:

Where is the Justice?

[Light]

What good is law that can’t

Punish those who break it?!

I love this line mainly because of the pure emotion in his voice when he sings it. He sounds so exasperated and tired. Justice was clearly a sore spot for him long before he picked up the Death Note.

They’re Only Human

[Ryuk, Rem]

They don’t see

Who they are is who they’ll always be

This line is great because of how the lyrics are the same but Ryuk and Rem each give them completely different meanings. Ryuk says it as a jest, a mockery of sorts. Rem says it with fascination and maybe a bit of pity. They can share the same beliefs and still view humanity differently.

Change the World

[Light]

But what would happen if it's true?

Imagine all that I could do

Light just picked up the Note and he was already yearning to be the one that made change himself. It makes you wonder how his career in law enforcement would have gone without the Death Note's interference.

Hurricane

[Light]

I am the God of a brave new world

Much better than the last!

well that escalated quickly.

Kira!

[Ryuk]

You think you’re making changes

But the only thing you can change is your name

This is such an underrated line because it's true. No matter how much someone prods at the system, it never seems to do much. I guess it's more like Light stabs the system as opposed to prodding it, but with the same effect. Humanity doesn't change easily.

I'm Ready

[Misa]

And the world may be cold

And the world may be cruel

But this world is all that I've got

I forget sometimes that Misa isn't just a Light Yagami fangirl. She actually truly believes in the systems that Light is trying to implement. She wants to change the world for the better just as much as he does.

We All Need a Hero

[Sayu]

When I get afraid, and all hope is gone

I reach for your hand and I belong

Cause someone like you, who's scared but won't run

Is standing his ground for everyone

These lines are painful for a couple reasons. The most obvious being that she's saying that Kira should be more like her brother, who is actually Kira. The hope and admiration on her face are enough to induce tears. The other reason being that those lyrics actually pertain to Kira for many, not just Light. So many different possible perspectives.

The Game Begins

[L]

The chase is on, the die is cast

I sift a thousand pixels

Until I chase you down at last...

The game begins!

I think this just reinforces the fact that L sees his competition with Kira as an interesting game to play. He sounds entertained.

There are Lines

[Soichiro]

You don't load a gun

[Light]

You don't

[Soichiro, Light]

Close your eyes and shoot!

This is interesting because Light skips that first line entirely and only butts in for the last portion. It's symbolic of the fact that Light disagrees with Soichiro for the first part. His father says don't kill anyone period and Light says don't shoot blindly. kill with purpose.

Secrets and Lies

[L, Light]

The line is quickly blurring between what's right and what is not

I don't care who gets hurt now

As long as I get one more shot!

This is my favorite line in the entire musical. It captures their dynamic perfectly. Neither of them care about anyone but each other and winning their game at this point.

Mortals and Fools

[Rem]

Try as I will, I just don't understand it

Love is for mortals and fools

tHeSe wOrDs wiLL nOt cOme bAcK tO hAuNt mE lAtEr tHiS wEeK

Stalemate

[L]

Just like two actors on a stage

Go through the motions that we both rehearse

Our little new atomic age

Eyeball to eyeball

We'll see who blinks first!

A staring contest is an excellent metaphor for their game of cat and mouse. It's a contest where the slightest upset of any kind can affect the outcome and victor, and it requires you to be completely concentrated on your opponent.

I'll Only Love You More

[Misa]

My restless life is worth so much more

Because of you worth living for

If I find you maybe love me too

I'll only love you more

These lyrics tend to remind me just how much of Misa's will to live is comprised of Light. It certainly explains her actions after his death.

The Way Things Are

[L]

Always only believed what was

Right in front of me

What I could see

Shinigami are real because

It's the only way

The only way

I have no fancy explanation for this one, it just reminds me of the scene where he hears the word shinigami and falls over screaming. Never ceases to make me cackle.

Mortals and Fools (Reprise)

[Rem]

Love makes you break all the--

[Ryuk] (spoken)

Rem

Don't break the rules

The reprise was hauntingly beautiful in which Rem takes up Misa's old lines and sings them, as she finally understands what Misa meant. I also appreciate the little bit of care for Rem that Ryuk shows here. A warning of sorts.

Honor Bound

[Soichiro]

Timelines and coincidences can't replace hard facts

But if what I'm seeing, bends as light refracts

Am I blinded to what my son lacks?

Can we appreciate the Light puns please.

Playing His Game

[L, Light]

I’ll catch him when

I look through his eyes

See what he sees

And then improvise

Until I can learn what puts him at ease

I’ll walk in his shoes

As long as it takes

There is absolutely no heterosexual explanation for this level of obsession.

Borrowed Time

[Misa]

I'm cheating death with every breath

And every song and every sigh

With every day that I don't die

Is borrowed time!

These lines are just so beautiful to me. She sings about how death does not matter to her because she's only alive now on account of Gelus's sacrifice. The vigor she sings with here is also so wonderful.

When Love Comes

[Rem]

When love comes, it takes you by surprise

You see things through someone else's eyes

Rem finally understands love. Also that last line reminds me of a certain line in Playing His Game 🤨

The Way It Ends

[L]

I've seen through you right from the start!

[Light]

I've simply let you play your part!

[L]

You'll never ever get away!

[Light]

Don't you see that you will die today?

I love how even at the end, they're both trying to prove themselves to one another. They're trying to show that they won, that they're the better man/person/detective. That last line of Light's kinda shut L up tho 💀

[beardedmrbean]

Looks like they got el chopos kid at Sinaloa airport, that and Mexico city is under lockdown cause the cartels are out on force. Anyupdats so far?

MEXICO CITY (Reuters) -Nineteen suspected gang members and 10 military personnel were killed in a wave of violence surrounding the arrest of Mexican drug cartel boss Ovidio Guzman in the northern state of Sinaloa, Defense Minister Luis Cresencio Sandoval said on Friday.

Mexican security forces captured Guzman, the 32-year-old son of jailed kingpin Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman, in the early hours of Thursday morning, prompting hours of unrest and shootouts with gang members, the minister said.

Guzman was extracted by helicopter from the house where he was caught and flown to Mexico City, before being taken to a maximum security federal prison, Sandoval added.

The arrest spurred the powerful Sinaloa Cartel - once headed by El Chapo himself - to go on a rampage, setting vehicles on fire, blocking roads, and fighting security forces in and around Culiacan, the capital of Sinaloa.

Twenty-one other people were arrested during Thursday’s operations, Sandoval told a news conference, adding there were no reports of any civilian deaths.

President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said there were no immediate plans to extradite Ovidio to the United States, where his father is in a maximum security prison after being extradited in 2017 and found guilty in a New York court.

“The elements (of the case) have to be presented and the judges in Mexico decide,” the president said. “It is a process...It is not just the request.” No U.S forces had assisted in Ovidio’s capture, Lopez Obrador said.

An enhanced security presence will now remain in place in Sinaloa, on Mexico’s Pacific coast, to protect the public, with an additional 1,000 military personnel traveling to the region today, Sandoval said.

Passengers on an Aeromexico passenger flight at Culiacan airport crouched low below their seats as shots rung out around the runway on Thursday.

“As we were accelerating for take-off, we heard gunshots very close to the plane, and that’s when we all threw ourselves to the floor,” passenger David Tellez said. Aeromexico said one of its plane was hit by gunfire at Culiacan but that no-one was hurt.

The airport was due to reopen later on Friday after being closed due to the violence.

In 2019, a failed operation to arrest Ovidio ended in humiliation for Lopez Obrador’s government. At the time, security forces briefly detained Ovidio, triggering a violent backlash from cartel loyalists and leading authorities to quickly release him to stave off the threat of further retribution from his henchmen.

His latest capture comes before a North American leaders’ summit in Mexico City next week, which U.S. President Joe Biden will attend. Cooperation over security is due to be on the agenda.

THE EXTRADITION QUESTION

The United States has sought Guzman’s extradition for years.

In 2021, the State Department announced a $5 million reward for information leading to his arrest and conviction.

Guzman, known by the nickname “The Mouse,” has been charged in the United States with conspiracy to traffic cocaine, methamphetamine and marijuana into the United States. The State Department said he oversaw methamphetamine labs in Sinaloa responsible for producing “3,000 to 5,000 pounds” of the drug per month.

The State Department also said information indicated he had ordered multiple murders, including that of a popular Mexican singer who had refused to perform at his wedding.

Surging flows of the synthetic opioid fentanyl into the United States, where it has fueled record overdose deaths, have heightened pressure to capture Guzman.

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration considers the Sinaloa Cartel, along with one other gang, to be responsible for most of the fentanyl inside the United Sates. ______________________

Well then, that's a thing there isn't it.

50/50 on this thing kicking off a civil war in the cartel being a good or bad thing.

[baepsaesbae]

Babysitters Club

Pairing— Kim Taehyung x reader    

Genre— SMUT, fluff, babysitting au, strangers to lovers au

Warnings— Dom!Taehyung, roleplaying, face fucking, oral sex (m and f), bondage, explicit rough unprotected sex please stay safe irl, squirting, choking, hickies, a surprise cameo from Spring Will Come Again!Jungkook because I have no self control

Word Count— ~7.6k  

Summary— A generic summer job hunt leads you to babysit rowdy (but still cute) kids alongside the most handsome man you’ve ever seen. What shenanigans will you get into with Taehyung by your side?

A/N— HUGE shoutout to the lovely @kimtaehyunq​​ for making this beautiful banner for me! This was literally the Taehyung I had in mind while writing this uwu. This fic is the epitome of self indulgence but I truly hope you guys like it too! Please let me know what you think! My askbox/inbox is always open, don’t be afraid to come chat with me. Love you all, hope you guys are safe <3

Crumpled up newspapers littered the floor as another ball was apathetically tossed aside. A sigh of defeat escaped your lips as you looked up at the ceiling in desperation.

“Still at it with the job hunt, huh?” your roommate, Hyuna, said when she saw your mess, “I told you to search online. Or try to get a job at a cafe or a boba shop or something.”

“Easy jobs online seem sketchy, and I told you I don’t want to work in the food industry ever again,” you groaned.

“But you’d rather...be a babysitter?” she questioned as she held up an ad, “Wait you could get paid up to $15 an hour? That’s pretty good.”

“I didn’t see that one. Is it an agency or something?”

“Not sure, take a look,” she handed you the paper.

“Oh, it seems like it’s a daycare run out of someone’s house. They’re looking for multiple applicants. You wanna do it with me?! I think it could be fun!” you ask excitedly.

“And spend most of my summer vacation with a bunch of snot nosed brats? I don’t think so. You have fun though!” she blew you a kiss as she walked away.

You whipped your phone out and immediately called the number in the ad. This job was the only one that seemed bearable, and you thought kids were cute for the most part. You’ve had a few babysitting gigs in the past so this shouldn’t be too bad.

“Hello?” a deep voice answered the call.

“Hi, I saw your ad in the paper! I was wondering if there was still a babysitting position open?” you inquired.

“Oh yes! Yeah there’s still a spot open. Um, can you give me a sec?” the man said quickly as you heard wailing kids in the background. After two minutes or so he returned to the phone.

“I’m terribly sorry about that. You don’t have a criminal background or anything right? Gosh, I’m sure this sounds unprofessional but--”

“Nope, I don’t have any charges or anything like that. Should I call back later?” you offered since it seemed like the man was a little preoccupied.

“It’s like this all the time. Why don’t we do a practice run tomorrow? Oh! I mean, whenever you’re available to start. Or technically have an interview? I guess? Hey, don’t put that in your mouth!” the man chastised at someone in the distance.

“I can come in tomorrow!” you said.

“Great! Just use the address in the same ad you got this number from! Oh, and please get here by 9am! See you soon!” the man hung up abruptly.

“That was chaotic…” you said to yourself.

A moment later your phone began to ring. It was from the babysitting guy.

“Hello?” you answered.

“I realized I never got your name! I promise I’m not always this frazzled,” he laughed as rambunctious laughter erupted behind him.

“Oh, I’m ______,” you gave him your first and last name.

“Cool. See you tomorrow Miss ____!” he said before hanging up again.

You were actually excited to babysit. It had been a while since you had done it, and playing with kids was usually fun. Then again, you’ve never had a bad experience with babysitting before. You prayed that this gig would continue the positive trend.

Donning shorts and a simple Mickey Mouse t-shirt, (you figured some kid was bound to like the mousey character) it was time to head off to your potential workplace. The babysitting place was actually fairly close to you, only about a 10 minute drive. It was 8:55am by the time you arrived. A couple of parents walked past your car to drop off their kids. All of the kids seemed to be pretty excited to enter the house, which was definitely a good sign.

You gently knocked on the door at exactly 9am. There was no response as you awkwardly waited for about a minute or so. All you could hear was shrill laughter and thumps that you presumed was the kids running about. You realized there was a doorbell, and sighed at your foolishness.

The door opened seconds after you rang the doorbell. A tall man with dark hair greeted you with a warm smile. You were taken aback by the handsome guy, suddenly questioning whether you were at the right place or not until a child popped up from behind his shoulder and yelled out a loud “Boo!” that caused you to jump.

“Ah, sorry about that! This one is always trying to play pranks,” the man laughed as he playfully jostled the child that was latched onto his back, “You must be ______?”

“That’s me!” you say with a little too much enthusiasm.

“Cool. C’mon in, I’ll introduce you to the kids,” the man led you inside.

The living room was littered with toys, from cars to building blocks to barbies. This place was definitely a kid’s happy place. Four little kids were playing with various things when you walked in. All of the kids there seemed to be between the ages of 4 to 6. At a glance, it seemed like they were all playing house. It took you a few seconds to realize that one of the kids was actually playing by herself; she was just physically close to the other kids.

“Everyone! This is our newest helper! Her name is Miss ____. Let’s all play nicely with her okay?” the man announced.

The kids playing house immediately stopped what they were doing and rushed to you. Two boys began asking you questions in a rapid fire succession, while the little girl merely clung to your leg.

“Those two are Kota and Bel,” the man pointed to the two boys, “The little girl stuck to you like glue is Ava, and the one playing over there is Lucy,” he continued to name each child.

“AND I’M SAM!!” the last boy exclaimed over the man’s shoulder.

“Yes, this troublemaker here is Sam. That’s basically the whole gang! We could get a few more additions as the summer goes on, but these guys are the OG crew. They’re all really sweet kids, once you get to know them. Any questions so far?” your employer asked.

“I don’t think I ever caught your name, sir,” you say politely.

“Oh! No need to call me sir. I think we’re probably around the same age? Not that I’m assuming your age or anything but--”

“He’s my horsey!” Sam interrupted.

“No, he’s the chef!” Kota yelled.

“No, he’s our dad who’s not our dad,” Lucy chimed in.

“My mom told me he was a babysitter?” Bel added, now visibly confused.

“I am all of those things,” the man reassured the children, “But my name is Taehyung. The kids call me Tae or Mr. insert whatever title I have in the game we are playing on that day. Pleasure to meet ya,” Tae extends a hand out to you, “Let’s see how your first day goes.”

The first few hours consisted of a rather intricate game of pretend set up in a fantasy world. You played a princess who was captured by an evil dragon, who was played by Taehyung (you couldn’t help but think about how you wouldn’t mind being his hostage).

The boys were valiant knights on their quest to rescue you. The girls played different creatures that aided the knights as fairies or unicorns or any other things they wanted to be. Most of the game consisted of you and Taehyung sitting together in a corner of the living room. Even though you didn’t have to do anything, it was fun watching the kids play. Their imagination amused you.

“Enjoying yourself, princess?” Taehyung asked as he also watched the children run around.

His deep voice sent chills down your spine. Something about the way the word “princess” rolled off his tongue was so enchanting. You cleared your throat before answering.

“This job has been pretty fun so far, Mr. Evil Dragon,” you smile.

“Hey! I’m not evil, just misunderstood,” he protested.

“Oh no! The dragon is about to eat the princess!” one of the boys cried out.

“What? No, I’m not going to eat her,” Taehyung said defensively.

“You need to pretend to eat the princess so that the knights save her,” Lucy, the quiet one, scuttled over to whisper to the both of you before hurrying back to her spot.

Taehyung turned towards you to appease the kids as they held their breath in anticipation.

“Rawr! I’m going to eat you!” he said in a deep voice.

“Oh no! Somebody save me!” you cried out, playing along.

A few moments passed but none of the kids moved. You both turned your heads towards them in confusion. They stared back at you blankly.

“You need to bite her!” Sam demanded.

“What?” you and Tae said in unison.

“Bite her! Bite her! Bite her!” the boys started to chant.

“But not too hard!” Ava expressed her worry for you, making you smile.

“I…uh…” Taehyung was at a loss for words.

“They’re not gonna stop, are they?” you whispered to him.

He nodded with a sigh as their chanting got louder. You offered him your arm. Kids can be crazy stubborn over silly things. Besides, you’ve done worse for less (college is crazy).

Taehyung shot you an “are you sure about this?” look, to which you just nodded. Once he got the okay, Taehyung grabbed your arm and pulled you harshly, causing your face to be a mere inches away from his.

“Fools! You think you can save the princess? I will devour her before your very eyes!” Taehyung declared with an even deeper voice. He opened his mouth menacingly, as if to show off his fangs. Then, he proceeded to bite your bicep. To be honest, he was being so forceful that you thought he was going to bite you for real, causing you to involuntarily close your eyes.

Instead, he gingerly placed his teeth on your skin so lightly that you could barely feel anything. You opened your eyes to see Taehyung grinning at you with your arm in his mouth.

“Aaaaggghhh GET HIM!!” Sam yelled, leading the other boys straight into Taehyung.

Taehyung quickly let go of you before he rolled out onto the floor. The boys began to pummel Taehyung with their foam swords and pretend bows and arrows. The girls came to your aid to help you escape during the battle.

The little boys triumphantly stood over their defeated babysitter who pretended to be passed out on the floor. You applauded their victory as the girls sat by your side.

“Okay! Good game, it’s almost lunchtime,” Taehyung announced as he quickly popped back up.

“Chef Tae makes the best mac and cheese!” Ava informed you excitedly.

“I wanted dino nuggies!” Sam puffed out his cheeks in disappointment.

“Sam, you know it’s Ava’s day to pick out lunch. It’ll be your turn tomorrow okay? I promise! You guys can stay here and play with Miss ____ till food is ready,” Tae called out as he walked to the kitchen. Lucy silently followed Tae.

“Lucy likes to help out in the kitchen a lot. She sets the table,” Ava explained when she saw you watching Lucy.

“You’re good at being a princess!” Kota butted in as he ran to hug your leg.

“I like your shirt! I like Mickey Mouse too. I saw him in DisneyWorld last year,” Bel said as he clung to your other leg.

The kids took turns holding onto your legs as you tried to walk around. Apparently the thought of making you tumble over was an exciting one, and that kept the kids busy until Taehyung called for everyone.

Five little bowls of mac and cheese were set up on the dining table. The kids took their seats as Taehyung handed out juice boxes. He positioned himself by your side as the little ones began to chow down.

“I normally just eat the rest out of the pot, but since you’re here I can get you a bowl. Sorry about biting you earlier, the kids really like it when I get serious about my roles,” Taehyung chuckled as he scooped out your portion.

“It’s no problem, you’re a great actor. Thank you,” you say politely as he handed you a bowl.

Lunch was spent making small talk with Taehyung. He was a newly graduated college student trying to make extra money before starting a real job hunt.Taehyung had been running this makeshift daycare since he was a senior in highschool.

“Summers are always fun with them,” Taehyung said while smiling fondly at the kids, “How has it been so far?” he asked.

“I’ve been having a good time. The kids are all really sweet! They have so much energy,” you answer.

“They do indeed, which is why playtime is so important in the morning! It makes what comes next easier,” he winked at you before collecting the empty bowls, “Okay kiddos! Who’s ready for nap time?”

Lucy quietly raised her hand while the boys groaned. You figured it would be hard to get those active boys to settle down, let alone to take a nap. You helped Taehyung set up blankets and pillows in the game room. The kids made a beeline to their designated blankets without a fuss.

“Do you sing, Miss _____?” Taehyung asked out of the blue.

“Um, not really?” you say hesitantly.

“Ah, I see. No worries. Everybody ready?” he said.

“Yes!” all the kids replied.

“Alrighty. Do you have any song requests, Miss ____?”

You thought about which songs would make for a decent lullaby, “Do you know Adore You by Harry Styles?”

“I’ll have to look up the lyrics but yeah I like that song! I like his whole album actually,” Taehyung nodded as he pulled out his phone and took a deep breath, “Walk in your rainbow paradise~”

You were shocked by his vocal talent. His voice control was superb and the quality of his voice was downright euphoric. Even though Taehyung’s voice is deeper than Harry Styles’, his range was incredible. He was still able to go as high as Harry without any trouble. All the kids had fallen sound asleep by the time he finished the song.

“This is when I typically have about an hour of free time,” he said after quietly leading you back into the kitchen.

“You have such a beautiful voice! Do you sing to them every day?” you praised him.

“Thanks! Yeah, I sing to them every day. They used to get duets actually,” Taehyung sighed.

“Did you have another coworker before?” you asked.

“Yep. My best friend actually. He’s my roommate too, but he landed an internship this summer so he couldn’t be here. I’m very proud of him! But usually this is a job for two people so I decided to put that ad out. I’m happy you came out! The kids seem to like you,” Taehyung gave you a thumbs up.

“I hope so! Lucy might be scared of me though,” you recalled the way she mostly avoided you all morning.

“Nah, she’s just really shy. She told me that she thought you were really pretty though, so that’s a good sign!” he tried to reassure you.

“I guess it must be true then. Kids are brutally honest,” you smiled.

“She definitely wasn’t lying,” Taehyung smiled back at you.

You had to look away awkwardly to hide your blushed cheeks. There’s no way you could handle a direct smile from this guy. How was it possible for someone to be that handsome without even trying?!

“So what happens after naptime?” you quickly asked to change the subject.

“Basically more playing until their parents come. It honestly just depends on what the kids wanna do. We can play inside, in the backyard, and sometimes we go to the park,” Taehyung answered with an amused smile, “Let’s use this free time to conduct a more formal interview, shall we?”

Taehyung then asked you a series of questions about your summer schedule, if you’re willing to work every day of the week, how you feel about the kids, along with other things. You answered truthfully and kept up a professional demeanor. Taehyung seemed to be satisfied with your answers and leaned back in his chair.

“That all works for me! The people who really need to approve of you are the parents. I’ll introduce you to them later this afternoon. I’m sure they’ll all be fine once I vouch for you,” he nodded.

Soft giggles caught your attention. Taehyung signaled that break time was now over and led the way back to the living room. Kota and Bel were wrestling each other while the others threw pillows at them.  

“Did everyone have a good nap?” Taehyung sing songed.

“Yes!” they replied.

“Can we play house now?” Ava asked.

“Yeah! Miss ____ can be the mommy now!” Sam bounced up in excitement, “Our last mommy used to be a boy.”

“Jimin was a great mommy and I’m sure he misses you all dearly. Jimin is my roommate/best friend/ex-cobabysitter,” Taehyung explained.

The game of house was more hands on from your end. The kids demanded you to carry them and read them stories like a real mommy would. It was mainly the girls who wanted to play with you, while the boys took turns wrestling with Tae or riding on his back. You were braiding Lucy’s hair when the doorbell rang.

“Kota! Your mom is here!” Taehyung called from the front.

All the kids trickled out one by one as their parents arrived. Taehyung introduced you to each parent; their reactions were all positive, especially when their kids raved about you being the new Jimin.

“If she’s anything like Jimin, then I have nothing to worry about. I trust your judgement, Taehyung,” one of the sterner looking parents said (Sam’s father to be exact).

“Congrats! You got the job,” Taehyung congratulated you once all of the children were picked up, “We get paid on Fridays. I’ll basically just split what we earn 50/50, cool?”

“That’s fine by me! I’m looking forward to working with you,” you bow graciously.

“Ah! No need to be so formal. We’re partners now! I’m not your boss or anything,” Taehyung gave you a friendly pat on the shoulder, “See you tomorrow!”

Summer was about to get rather eventful. All of the children warmed up to you surprisngly quickly, even timid Lucy (who had arguably grown the most fond of you). As the days went on, you couldn’t help but admire Taehyung’s kindness and patience when it came to the kids. From firm to understanding, he was everything a caregiver should be. He handled spats between kids with ease, often by making them forgive each other then laugh at some silly joke of his.

One afternoon, the kids voted to watch a Disney movie. All seven of you curled up on the couch together with you and Taehyung in the middle. Lucy sat in your lap while Bel sat in Taehyung’s. Halfway through the movie, Taehyung fell asleep. The kids didn’t notice since they were so engrossed in the movie. You however, DID notice. Mostly because he rolled his sleepy head onto your shoulder.

Your heartbeat quickened as you slowly turned to take a peek at the handsome man sleeping beside you. He looked angelic, and you realized that he smelled pleasant too. He had a sweet scent that was uncharacteristic for a young man. You took a deep breath and pretended not to notice him. He didn’t wake up until the doorbell rang near the end of the movie.

He seemed to be confused and perhaps even slightly flustered when he lifted his head from your shoulder, but quickly shrugged it off to go answer the door. The incident (and the drool on your shoulder) was never mentioned.

It had been a month since you started babysitting with Taehyung, and it honestly had been a lot more fun than you expected. The kids are wonderful silly little beings and Taehyung is...well...Taehyung.

You were cleaning up the living room on a late Friday afternoon after all the kids had been picked up. Taehyung was somewhere splitting up the week’s paycheck. Once all the toys were back in their respective bins, it was time to gather your stuff and go.

“Great work this week,” Taehyung commended as he handed you your cut.

“Thanks! Same to you as always. I’ll see you on Monday,” you wave as you open the front door.

“Actually um--” Taehyung cleared his throat.

“Yes?” you whipped around with almost too much eagerness.

“My friend is part of an art gallery showing tomorrow night and I was wondering if you’d like to go with me? I heard there will be drinks and finger foods…” Taehyung trailed off, presumably due to imagining what kind of snacks will be served.

“I’d love to! I’m not an expert on art or anything, but it sounds cool,” you smile.

“No worries, I’m no expert either. I’m just a guy who appreciates neat expressions of creativity,” he nodded humbly, “I can pick you up at your place, if you’d like.”

“Sure, I’ll text you my address. Oh uh, what’s the dress code like? I don’t really attend these things,” you ask shyly.

“I’d say a step down from formal? Like no t-shirts or jeans. Pretend like you’re going on a date to some restaurant that isn’t a michelin star but is still classier than Olive Garden,” Taehyung tried to explain.

“I’ll do my best,” you smile at his peculiar way of describing the appropriate attire.

A smile never left your face as you drove home. A chance to hangout with Taehyung one on one without any kids around? All of his attention will be on you? Yes please. You love the kids and all, but you finally have a real chance to get closer to Taehyung. To be honest, you might have the teensiest little crush on him, but who could blame you?

The next day was spent preparing for your night out with Taehyung. It probably wasn’t a date (90% sure it’s not), but you wanted to look irresistible anyway. You put on a purple dress with flowy sleeves that made you feel like a princess. It was on the dressier side, but being slightly overdressed never hurt anyone.

You usually only had time to slap on mascara and a lip tint in the mornings before babysitting, but now you had abundant time to play around with your makeup. You settled for a soft yet glamorous look with shimmery eyeshadow and eyeliner. Sparkly lip gloss tied the whole look together and made your lips look tempting (or so you hoped). You decided to leave your hair alone since you were having a miraculously good hair day.

“Wow are you sure this isn’t a date?” Hyuna whistled when she walked into your room.

“It’s not! This is just the first time Taehyung will see me actually trying to look good,” you say defensively.

“You’re cute even in ratty t-shirts, but I get what you mean. Have fun tonight!” your roommate gave you a tight hug.

A strong knock on your front door indicated Taehyung’s arrival. Hyuna tagged along as you went to answer the door; she wanted to see the guy you’ve been gushing over for the past month for herself.

Your mouth hung open in shock for a split second when you opened the door. Taehyung also dressed up. He was wearing a bright sunflower shirt paired with a black blazer that perfectly combined fun with sophistication. He wore a red silky bandana looking belt for an added pop of color with his black pants.

“Hey Taehyung!” you greet him happily.

“Good evening, Miss ____. You look spectacular!” he complimented you immediately.

“So do you! It’s funny seeing you not in a t-shirt, though I’m sure you’re thinking the same thing,” you say.

“You’re charming even in your graphic tees, but this is a nice change of pace too,” Taehyung agreed.

“Hi! I’m Hyuna, ____’s roommate,” Hyuna butted in to shake his hand.

“Hi, I’m Taehyung, ____’s babysitting partner,” he introduced himself.

“We should get going,” you say politely before Hyuna could start to get chatty.

Hyuna mouthed an exaggerated “oh my god” coupled with a double thumbs up as you waved goodbye after Taehyung was already out the door. You playfully rolled your eyes but blew her a kiss anyway.

“I didn’t realize you lived so close to me,” Taehyung said as he pulled away from the curb.

“Yeah, it made the job even more appealing,” you nodded.

“I really am glad that you applied,” Taehyung said softly, as if to himself.

“Sorry, what was that?” you couldn’t hear him properly.

“Nothing! I said I’m glad you agreed to accompany me tonight!” Taehyung quickly stated.

“Thanks for inviting me out! I’m actually pretty excited,” you admitted.

The gallery was somewhere in the swanky part of downtown. You gazed out of the window at all of the high end stores Taehyung drove by. Everyone walking around the stores looked like supermodels, which was actually pretty intimidating. What if the people at the gallery looked like that too?

“We’re here!” Taehyung announced, interrupting your thoughts.

There was a decent amount of people wandering around the venue when you both entered. It was basically one big dimly lit room with spotlights on pieces scattered around on the walls plus some sculptures in the middle. Thankfully, the patrons already inside looked like normal people, most of them probably students like you.

“Taehyung!” someone called from the side of the room.

You both made your way towards the voice, only to find a man who was just as handsome as Taehyung greeting you with a bunny like smile. He had long hair that almost covered up his assorted dangly earrings. He definitely had art student vibes mixed with a dash of bad boy. The boys greeted each other with a ferocious hug, indicating that they’re probably good friends.

“Oh! What’s up, I’m Jungkook,” the boy shook your hand once he noticed you.

“She’s my babysitting partner this summer,” Taehyung said proudly.

“She’s replacing Jimin huh?” Jungkook laughed, “Taehyung and Jimin are like my brothers. We were all pretty close in college and are batchmates, even though I’m younger than them,” he stuck his tongue out at Taehyung.

“Yeah yeah okay whatever. Skipping grades in elementary school and bringing in a ton of transfer credits will help you do that I guess,” Taehyung shook his head even though he was still smiling.

“Are these your pictures?” you asked Jungkook, motioning to the mounted pictures behind him.

“Yeah! I took most of these in Madrid, I’ve been working abroad for my dream company,” Jungkook answered you proudly.

“Who’s this?” Taehyung pointed to a picture of a girl laughing by a giant tree.

“Yeah, she’s gorgeous!” you added.

“She’s um...a good friend. She was the perfect model,” Jungook said with a faraway look in his eyes that told you there was more to the story.

“Tell me more about her on our next phone call. Tonight is for celebrating you!” Taehyung picked up on Jungkook’s sudden change of tone.

You enjoyed listening to their old college stories as the boys reminisced about their past together. Jungkook relished telling you all of Taehyung’s embarrassing moments at various parties. Taehyung returned the favor by recalling Jungkook’s past run-ins with women. Despite his natural charm and god like looks, apparently Jungkook gets really nervous around girls.

You and Taehyung were on your own once Jungkook was flagged down by an older patron interested in purchasing some of his work. Taehyung stayed close to your side as you explored the rest of the gallery. Each artist was so incredibly talented as their pictures told  stories with just a single frame.

“____ look! They have those fancy charcuterie boards!” Taehyung grabbed your hand and excitedly dragged you over to the snack table. You couldn’t help but smile at his childlike elation.

“I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I’ve been getting tired of being force fed fruit snacks every day,” you laughed as you ate the assorted appetizers.

“I completely understand. Unfortunately, the kids are too sweet when they want to share. I don’t have it in me to turn them down,” Taehyung agreed.

Once the food was eaten, you resumed walking through the gallery. It was fun making up stories to go with each picture. Taehyung seemed to gravitate towards adding a romantic twist to each story, while you opted for a bit of mystery. At the end of the event, Taehyung met up with Jungkook once more to say his goodbyes.

“Thanks again for coming with me, I had fun! I hope you enjoyed yourself,” Taehyung said as he drove you back.

“It was really neat! I liked hanging out with you outside of work,” you nodded.

“Would you say it was a successful date then?” Taehyung raised an eyebrow with curiosity. Your heart skipped a beat as your eyes widened with surprise.

“Was...was this a date?” you asked quietly.

“Did you want it to be?” Taehyung teased.

“I wouldn’t have gotten so dressed up otherwise,” you said defensively, taken aback by his sudden cheekiness.

“I realized I should’ve clarified that after you had already left. My bad,” Taehyung shot you a boxy grin, “But then I figured maybe you would be more relaxed if I didn’t mention it.”

“That’s odd logic, but I guess it worked,” you admitted begrudgingly.

Taehyung walked you back up to your house. He sweetly kissed your cheek and bid you goodnight, leaving you frozen in place.

“S-see you on Monday!” was all you were able to stammer out, to which Taehyung just smiled and waved back.

Hyuna happily freaked out with you once you were back inside. She was watching you from the moment Taehyung pulled back up. She shrieked with excitement once you told her that Taehyung confirmed that it was a date. Hyuna didn’t let up with grilling questions about how your night went. She even asked if the Jungkook guy you met was single, to which you truthfully answered that you didn’t know.

“Besides, he told me himself that he’s scared of girls. You’re scary enough as is,” you teased her.

“Oh shut up. So is Taehyung like, your boyfriend now?” Hyuna asked the million dollar question.

“I don’t think so. I think it was just a date, but that’s a good start!” you declared optimistically.

Babysitting on Monday went on like normal. Taehyung didn’t act any differently, which was both concerning and relieving. You were in the backyard pretending to eat whatever dirt concoction the little kids were serving you.

“This one is for you,” Lucy quietly offered Taehyung a clump of dirt sprinkled with blades of grass, topped with a dandelion.

“Oh, how pretty! What is it?” Taehyung played along.

“It’s a love potion. The next person you hug will fall in love with you,” Lucy smiled.

A smirk crept on Taehyung’s face as he pretended to eat Lucy’s love potion. He made a satisfied “Ahh” sound that made Lucy giggle.

“Tae has to hug me now! He loves me the most!” Sam yelled as he ran over to latch onto Taehyung.

“No, Tae loves me!” Bel argued as he pulled on Taehyung’s shirt.

“That’s not how it works!” Lucy huffed as she yelled at the boys.

You watched with delight as the little kids chased Taehyung around the backyard, demanding that he has to hug them. It was easy for him to juke them out as they constantly ran back and forth. You were content with just watching them until Taehyung began to make a beeline for you.

“Oh no no no,” you cried as you got up to run.

Taehyung (and the kids) chased you around for a little bit. The backyard was on the smaller side, so there wasn’t much space to evade all of them coming for you at once. To make matters worse, Taehyung actually started to try and catch you. His speed was no joke; he was much more agile than you gave him credit for.

With one pounce, Taehyung tackled you to the ground. Somehow he managed to whip himself around while you were falling, so you ended up falling on him. Now wrapped up in his arms, Taehyung smiled up at you with a shit eating grin.

“I guess you have to fall in love with me now,” he smirked.

“You wish,” you laughed as you pulled yourself up.

“Aw now he loves Miss _____,” Sam pouted.

“No, now Miss ____ has to fall in love with Tae,” Ava corrected him.

“That’s dumb,” Kota shook his head.

“Tae! Kota said a bad word!” Bel immediately tattled.

“Kota, remember what I said about bad words. No one wants to play with someone who says mean things,” Taehyung chided him.

“Sorry,” Kota mumbled.

“Let’s play go play inside. Who wants juice?” Taehyung patted Kota’s head.

The kids followed Taehyung inside like little ducklings. You loved that sight, you always thought it was the cutest thing. The rest of the day went by without a hitch.

The topic of favorite movies came up during lunchtime the next day.

“I like Frozen 2,” Ava stated, and Lucy nodded furiously in agreement.

“Detective Pikachu was better. Pikachu is funny,” Sam interjected. The other little boys then began to argue about which pokemon was better/stronger.

“I’m not really a big movie watcher,” Taehyung confessed as he took a bite of a dino chicken nugget.

“Have you at least seen the classics? Harry Potter? Lord of the Rings? Star Wars?” you listed with concern.

“I’ve seen Harry Potter and Star Wars. I think I saw the Lord of the Rings? I can’t really remember. I know I wanted to watch the newer Lord of the Rings movies,” he chuckled at your growing disbelief.

“Newer Lord of the Rings? You mean the Hobbit series?” you were disgruntled.

“Yeah those. I didn’t realize you were a nerd,” he nudged you.

“What of it? All of those are great movies. I have copies of the Hobbit series if you ever wanted to watch them,” you offered.

“Do you wanna watch them with me?” he perked up.

“Sure, I love them! You wanna do a marathon? It’ll take up a full day though,” you warned.

“I’m down. Are you free this Sunday?”

“I believe so.”

“Great! I’m excited to see you geek out over hobbits. Okay kids, naptime!”

You drove up to Taehyung’s place Sunday morning, you weren’t kidding when you said it would take all day. Taehyung said to dress comfortably so you showed up in your sweatpants and oversized college tee. He answered the door wearing gray sweatpants and his favorite CELINE shirt. His dark fluffy hair fell over his forehead and was almost long enough to cover his eyes.

“Good morning! I hope you’re hungry. I made some waffles to eat while we watch the first movie,” he greeted you.

His humble abode smelled heavenly as the scent of dough tinged with a hint of cinnamon wafted through the air. The soft belgian waffles were delicious as they practically melted in your mouth. Taehyung asked a ton of questions with nearly every scene, but you didn’t mind. You were happy to flex your knowledge of Tolkien lore.

Hours later, you found yourself cuddled up with Taehyung as the final credits of the Battle of Five Armies began to roll. Taehyung was still trying to process everything that happened as he asked you clarifying questions about each character.

“Well crap, now I’m sad,” he pouted.

“Yeah, the ending is kind of a downer, but that’s what makes it so good! The Lord of the Rings has a happy ending if that makes you feel better,” you look up at him from his chest.

“You look cute like that,” he observed.

“Like what? Tiny from your angle?” you tilted your head.

“I guess so? Tiny, maybe submissive,” Taehyung’s voice lowered with his suggestion.

“Submissive? Is that how you see me?” you sit back up completely with defiance.

“Not at all. You’re pretty feisty, which is why making you be submissive is even more alluring,” he raised his eyebrow in a suggestive manner.

“Do you want me to be a damsel in distress for you? Not happening,” you smirked.

“Pretty princesses are good for one thing,” Taehyung hopped off the couch.

Before you could say anything, he promptly grabbed you and swung you over his shoulder. You were too shocked by his boldness and physical abilities to retaliate.

“They’re perfect for kidnapping!” he let out a dramatic evil laugh as he carried you off to his bedroom.

Once there, he roughly threw you on the bed. You couldn’t help but look around curiously since this was the first time you’ve ever seen his room. It was surprisingly neat; his bed was made and there were no messy clothing piles in sight.

“Are you an evil dragon then? Capturing princesses and such?” you teased.

“Evil dragon, dashing captor, I can be anything you want me to be. Just please not an orc,” he let out a chuckle before getting back into character, “Just know that you’re trapped here with me. No one is going to rescue you.”

“Oh no! What a terrible situation to be in! What on Earth is this extremely handsome dragon going to do with a poor defenseless princess like me?” you taunted.

“Ok this is all very hot but before we go any further, are you okay with this?” Taehyung asked sincerely.

“I can’t think of anything that I’ve wanted more,” you nodded.

“Perfect. Safe word is red,” he winked at you, “Now strip for me, princess.”

“And if I don’t?” you challenged.

Taehyung grabbed a fistful of hair on the back of your head and forcefully brought you up to his face, “I suggest not making me angry,” he sneered.

You didn’t think you were one for being manhandled, but god damn that was hot. There was already a tingle between your legs and he hadn’t even really touched you yet. You complied with his request, and quickly tore off your shirt and pants. Though you weren’t wearing any fancy lingerie, you were wearing a gray bra and gray panties that could pass off as matching.

“Mmm what a pretty treasure. It would be a shame to let it gounappreciated,” Taehyung stretched out that last word as he gently ran his fingers from your torso up to your neck before firmly grasping it.

Taehyung straddled you as his long fingers were wrapped around your neck. Slowly, he leaned down to kiss you. Though apprehensive at first, he gradually got more bold with it. His tongue dipped into your mouth the instant your lips parted. His other hand crept under your bra to fondle your breast.

“You take your clothes off too,” you said as soon as the kiss broke.

“You don’t get to make any demands, silly princess,” Taehyung shook his head.

You pouted and reached out to tug at his pants anyway. Big mistake. Taehyung slapped your hand away and slammed you back onto the bed.

“You don’t listen, huh? I’ll have to do something about that. Stay still or else you’ll make things worse for yourself,” he ordered.

You reluctantly obeyed, partly because you were curious about what he was going to do, and partly because you were actually intimidated by him. He returned back to the bed a few seconds later, but with a familiar silky red belt in hand.

“Give me your hands. Good girl,” he smiled deviously as he bound them together, “Remember the safe word is red, okay?” he gently reminded you.

He looked down at you with a satisfied grin as he began to take off his sweatpants. He had an obvious bulge in his underwear that outlined his massive dick. You were further entranced by his physique when he took off his shirt. He wasn’t ripped, but he was still fit, as you could plainly see when his chest was finally revealed.

“Open wide, princess,” he demanded.

You opened your mouth, and even flattened your tongue out a little bit for him. He pulled his cock out of his underwear, finally exposing his full length. You doubted you could fit even half of him in your mouth, but at this point it wasn’t up to you.

Taehyung lowered himself down to you, and teasingly tapped the tip of his cock on your tongue. He slowly eased himself into your mouth, forcing you to open your mouth even wider to account for his girth. He made his way back out once you gagged. He grabbed your head to hold you steady as he fucked your mouth once more. He got closer and closer to the back of your throat until he finally hit it. All you could focus on was breathing as tears welled up in your eyes. Taehyung thrusted a couple more times before he pulled out completely.

“Good girl indeed. Well done, princess,” he softly stroked your chin before wiping your tears away. All you could do was smile meekly back at him.

“Don’t worry, it’s time for your reward,” Taehyung smiled down at you as his hand slipped under your panties, “Oh you’re so wet. I can’t wait to taste you.”

He positioned himself between your thighs after he tore off your panties. His thumb fiddled with your clit, causing you to squirm. He placed a strong grip on your thigh to hold you down as he circled your clit faster. Your helpless whimpers were music to Taehyung’s ears.

Without warning, he easily stuck two fingers into you. He didn’t even let you adjust as he rapidly fingered you, his fingers curving to graze your g-spot with every stroke. His tongue swirled around your clit, adding even more toe curling sensations.

Him adding a third finger was the catalyst for the strongest orgasm you’ve ever had in your life. There wasn’t even a build up, everything just hit you at once. Suddenly you were crying out even louder as you violently came. Did it occur to you that you were squirting all over Taehyung and his bed? No. Were you doing exactly that? Absolutely.

“Delicious,” Taehyung said as he licked his lips, “Look at the fucking mess you made.”

“I-i’m sorry,” you managed to stutter, you were still recovering from your orgasm.

“It’s only fair that it’s my turn to make a mess now. Do I need to get a condom, princess?” he cooed.

You weakly shook your head. You needed to feel all of him, right now. Taehyung chuckled at your neediness as he aligned himself with your pussy. He slowly inserted his entire length into you until the base of his cock touched your soaked pussy. You moaned together as he stayed still for a second. You looked up to see Taehyung’s face lit up with pure bliss.

“You’re still so fucking wet,” he growled as he began to mercilessly buck his hips into you.

You moaned with every thrust as Taehyung shook the entire bed. Taehyung placed both of your legs on his shoulders, allowing him to hit you even deeper from this new angle. He leaned over to plant his lips on your neck as he fucked you. What started as a gentle peck took a violent turn as he harshly sucked on your neck. He left dark spots wherever his lips touched, and soon you were covered in dark blooms.

“Do you want me to soil your back or your chest?” he asked in a guttural tone.

“Back?” you answer dubiously.

You were immediately flipped over. You were laying flat on your chest waiting for him to prop up your ass, but he never did. Instead, he simply spread your legs wider and fucked you flat against the bed. Taehyung grabbed your ass and spread your cheeks to get a better view of your sopping pussy. You could feel another orgasm brewing as he fucked even deeper into you, and his cock was continuously dragging against your g-spot.

“Taehyung, I--”

“I know, princess. Let it all out. I want to feel you come on my dick,” he demanded.

A few more strong strokes was all it took for you to go limp under him as your orgasm took over. Seconds after you hit your high, Taehyung pulled out and came all over your back.

Once you were all cleaned up, Taehyung untied you and kissed your forehead.

“How was it, princess?” he asked as he stroked your hair.

“I’ve never been fucked by a beast before, but now I don’t want anything else,” you admitted before kissing his neck.

“Good. I was worried about going overboard. As I told you before, I really like getting into character,” he laughed.

“I’ve never been into roleplay but I’m willing to change for you. Oh shit, it’s late already,” you noticed the time on his alarm clock.

“Just stay the night. I don’t think the kids will care if you’re wearing sweatpants or not. I can lend you a turtleneck to cover up those hickies though,” Taehyung yawned.

“Are you sure?” you questioned.

“Yeah, I don’t mind. Be warned, I’m a cuddler,” he pulled you closer to him.

“I guess I can sleep in a little later then,” you reasoned.

“Perfect. Goodnight, princess,” he quickly kissed your lips.

“You’re sleeping like that?”

“Like what?”

“Butt naked?”

“I can put clothes on if it makes you uncomfortable. I just figured it would make things easier for tomorrow morning,” he said sleepily.

“Tomorrow morning?” that got your attention.

“You’ll see! Be patient, princess. Night night.”

Never in a million years would you have guessed that applying for a babysitting job would result in this, but you weren’t complaining.

Published April 17, 2021. No editing, copying, translating, or reposting allowed. All Rights Reserved © 2021 Baepsaesbae.

[mellowyandere]

One Hell of a Logical Ruse Part 1

Reader: F

Characters: Aizawa Shouta (Eraserhead) 

Summary: Shouta loves a good game of cat and mouse, unfortunately for you the game’s a little rigged. This is somewhat of an experiment to try and write a smut scene from the male POV. Disclaimer I am not a man so uh yeah lmao. 

Based off the pre-established fic You’re Ours to Protect. 

Length: 4.5K

Warnings: non-con, yandere themes, vaginal fingering, vaginal sex, praise kink

Aizawa Shouta was a rational man. He did his best to adhere to logic, and to never waste time with unnecessary action. And yet despite this, he absolutely loved watching you try to escape. You were pretty clever, even without him “accidentally” forgetting to lock the second story window that just so happened to be above some forgivingly soft shrubbery. 

You probably would have figured some way out on your own, but something feral inside him didn’t want to wait around for you to act. Normally it was his ever-loud husband Hizashi that fell flat when it came to the notion of patience, but today he would relent to his own selfish desires. 

Toshinori would have been utterly distressed had he been aware of the sleepy pros scheme. The number one was a man of swift action, seemingly never thinking twice before charging fist first into danger. He would not be happy Shouta was playing with you like this, but Toshinori and Hizashi wouldn’t be made aware of his little game with you. After all they had no idea he set this up, so they might genuinely try to punish you. He’d keep it quiet once he caught you and pretend it’s your little secret. Maybe you’d even be a little grateful if you believed he was saving your skin.

He rationalized his behavior by telling himself you seemed so bored, truly this was the perfect way to stimulate your mind and body. So when he heard the telltale sound of a body landing in bushes on the back side of the house he simply started a timer for 20 minutes to give you a bit of a head start. 

Was it cruel to get your hopes up like this? Perhaps, but he’d make sure to fuck you senseless to alleviate the disappointment. After all, if you were a good girl you’d have settled into your life with them already. But you really did enjoy testing them, which brought out the side of him that wanted to put you in your place. 

Giving himself a once over he made sure he had everything he would need for your inevitable return home. Well, now that you were basically quirkiness, all he needed was his capture weapon just in case you put up a struggle. He hadn’t decided yet if he was going to fuck you when he caught you, or if he was going to haul your cute ass home first. 

Thinking about plowing into you with adrenaline still pumping through his veins from the hunt had some blood rushing below his belt. Well he could always just do both.

The shrill ringing of his phones alarm brought him back from his wandering thoughts. With a sadistic grin stretching wide across his face he headed for the front door.

-----

Three weeks. Three fucking weeks trapped inside that house with three insane men. Sure they might not beat you or starve you, but the constant belittling, undermining and infantilizing was about to drive you to insanity yourself. You almost jumped for joy when you noticed an unlocked window on the second floor in Hizashi’s and Shouta’s room. The blond man had a bad habit of using too much cologne, and his dark-haired counterpart was always having to air out the room when the radio star went overboard. 

Eraserhead was normally very diligent about ensuring the window was sealed tight, but last night Toshinori had come home in a flurry of smoke and blood, sending his blond junior into hysterics. It was nothing serious, unfortunately, but Shouta had been the one to calm Hizashi and tend to the number ones injuries. Amidst all the ruckus he had left the window unlocked. 

You knew Shouta would soon realize his mistake and lock the window down tight, leaving you with a small time frame to enact your grand escape. It wasn't ideal, but the best you had been able to do was wait for both blonds to leave, trapping you in the house with Shouta. Normally he let you be during the day, opting to nap and grade what appeared to be homework. Hopefully today would seem like just another day, and he wouldn’t think to check on you until dinner approached. 

You found yourself perched on the window sill, ready to take flight. All you had were the clothes on your back, not wanting to make any suspicious noises that would tip you off. On the count of three you braced yourself and pushed off from the ledge, landing on the bushes below with a thud. 

Fuck, that was a bit louder than you had anticipated. Ignoring your growing anxiety, you made quick work of escaping the clutches of the now flattened bush and took off into the woods on the back half of the house. 

Your heart was hammering like mad in your chest as you sprinted as fast as you could. It was hardly fair that it was your first time outside in three weeks and you couldn’t even slow down to take it all in. Thankfully it was spring, meaning you wouldn’t have to worry about the cold. All you needed to do was find someone to get this stupid quirk canceling collar off and then you could safely recede into the background, making sure the three pros never found you again. 

Easier said than done when one of those pros was All Might, and the other two were just as formidable, but you’d be damned if you didn’t try. You did your best to not leave a trail behind, but knew once Shouta figured out you were gone he’d have no trouble tracing your tracks. It was the unfortunately shitty reality you were dealing with. 

Were you really going to be able to escape? Even now as you ran as fast as you could it felt like a fruitless endeavor. There were too many variables that had to line up perfectly in order for you to pull this off, and as you ran directionless through the woods no viable solutions were coming to you. Hell, even now your lungs were burning from exertion, legs begging you to stop. 

But if there was one thing that you were it was stubborn. Stubborn to a fault sometimes, and so you pushed onwards. After what felt like an eternity of non-stop running you slowed to a walk. The forest seemed never ending, taunting you with its sprawling army of trees and shrubbery. You decided to be more mindful of the tracks you were leaving, veering off course in a way that would hopefully go undetected. 

Now no longer running you simply kept your steps quiet and ears alert in case Shouta had already discovered your absence. He was good at his work, but even he had limitations. 

-----

Shouta had to give credit where credit was due, you were better at this than he thought you’d be. If you were his student he’d be proud, but you were his prey so he was a bit annoyed. At first your tracks had been sloppy, easy to follow and incredibly straight forward. At some point though you had changed your approach, footsteps almost vanishing as you adopted a new tactic. 

He found himself crouching low, inspecting leaves to see which you had accidentally broken. There were no more snapped limbs as you carefully maneuvered through the woods. If he wasn’t a pro at hunting people down you probably would have been able to evade him, but this was his livelihood. 

Ever so carefully he followed your almost invisible trail. He had you beat in endurance so you’d have to settle somewhere eventually, and without food and water you were at a distinct disadvantage. Everything was lining up in his favor as he intended, even if you were making this a little harder than expected. 

The anticipation of catching a glimpse of you, of watching you realize he was there and taking off, made his heart beat faster. The longer you evaded him, the more time he had to come up with a fun punishment for you. 

-----

The sun had been directly overhead at the beginning of your escape, and was now kissing the horizon. Oranges and reds were thrown about the woods as the creatures of the night began to wake from their slumber. You listened to see if you could hear the chirping of frogs to find a water source but no luck. 

There was no doubt in your mind that Shouta was 110% aware of your absence by now and was probably hot on your trail. You were zigzagging a bit, trying your best to not disturb the forest floor while making it harder to track you. Dammit this was the fucking worst, it had to have been at least 6 hours in these woods, and without any food or water you were famished. 

And yet despite wandering about for 6 fucking hours you had yet to see anything besides the woods. Maybe you should just give up, sit down and accept defeat and whatever punishment you had awaiting you. You couldn’t help but shiver a bit at the fear of what that would entail. 

As dusk quickly turned dark you debated on whether or not you were going to rest for the night. Visibility would be lower, giving you a slight edge, but Eraserhead was a night owl meaning you were entering his domain of peak performance. There was also no guessing if he was the only one looking for you. All Might could move faster than you could even comprehend and Present Mic was fine-tuned when it came to noise location. 

Sighing in annoyance as your wayward thoughts shot holes through your confidence you decided to find somewhere to try and lay down for a bit. If all three were out hunting you down they could take turns and overlap the time so you never got to rest. As busy as they should be with hero work they always seemed to find too much time to hover around you. 

Spotting some dense shrubbery, you crossed your fingers that any creepy crawlies would keep to themselves and carefully began to conceal yourself. Perhaps one of them would pass by and you could gain some intel. If you were lucky they’d write this area off after not finding you and search elsewhere. 

Settling as comfortably as one could in a bush you closed your eyes and did your best to focus on the sounds around you. The melodic chirping of crickets was the most overwhelming of all the sounds. Skittering of small forest animals echoing around as well. Your mind began to desensitize to those sounds, the lack of adrenaline that pushed you along at the start of all this causing it to dip into unconsciousness. 

That was until you heard the distinct snap of a branch. Eyes flying open you were on high alert as you kept still. You tried to hear if there would be any follow up sounds, knowing something of a decent size had to have broken the branch. If it had been a deer they would have simply kept moving, which made you all the more anxious. 

“No more tracks kitten, I know you’re here somewhere. This little game dragged on a lot longer than I had anticipated so it seems there won’t be any way to hide this from Zashi and Toshinori.” 

You wanted to scream. Even though you had tried your best it simply wasn’t enough against Eraserhead. 

“If you come out kitten I’ll give you one last shot to run. Those bushes over there look like a mighty fine hiding spot for someone of your size.” His voice was pointed directly towards you.

FUCK. You couldn’t tell if he was bluffing or not at this point but he knew you were here, might as well come out with some dignity before he dragged you out kicking and screaming. 

The bush rustled loudly as you forced your way out. You were tired, famished and most of all so frustrated you wanted to cry. You didn’t even need to look at him to know he had a condescending smirk plastered to his face. 

“There’s my pretty kitty, did you have fun outside?”

Shouta knew just what to say to strike a nerve, but you held your tongue. “One last shot to run. You said so yourself. Ditch the capture weapon and catch me like a man, I mean unless you don’t think you can. I’m already quirkiness which is your gimmick on a regular day, so really you're just beating on someone while they're already down.” You looked up now, glaring at him as his smile grew in amusement. 

“I’m going to have to be a lot more physical without it you know, I’ll have no choice but you manhandle you.”

“I’d rather take my chances.” You knew even without his capture weapon you didn’t stand much of a chance of escape. Your only goal now was to try and see how much he was willing to handicap himself. 

“Gonna give me a head start or are you going to just run as soon as I do?”

At this Shouta had to keep himself from snarking back at you. He had already given you a head start, but if he told you this was all set up you’d probably lose the will to fight on. “Five minutes. I’ll give you five minutes to run as far as you can and then I’ll come after you,” he said while pulling out his phone. 

“What about Toshinori and Hizashi?” 

“At the house. I told them I’d handle this, Toshinori will be coming to get us though once I tell him game over. We’re pretty deep in the woods and I don’t feel like walking back for six hours.”

You nodded at his words. So it was just the two of you then. Your combat skills were nothing to write home about, but maybe if you fought dirty you could gain the upper hand. 

“Alright, tell me when.”

“Oh, I already started it. You have 4 minutes and 17 seconds.”

Fucking asshole. You took off sprinting, running as fast as you could, only opting to slow to a jog once you thought you were out of earshot. You wanted him to believe you’d be trying your damndest to put distance between the two of you. But you knew you’d never outrun him. Instead you were going to continue jogging for a bit, counting down the seconds in your head so you didn’t lose track your timer. 

Once your remaining time was up you were going to lay low and try to ambush him. He wouldn’t be paying as close attention to your trail since he knew he could easily catch up. 

After the remaining 4 minutes had passed you found a decent sized tree to hide behind and worked on slowing down your breathing. It felt like your heart was going to chisel its way straight through your bones, your limbs trembling with anxiety. It wasn’t often you were hunted back when you were an anti-hero. Not many people knew who you were which made it incredibly easy to be looked over. 

Scooping up handfuls of dirt you waited. You heard him before you saw him. He wasn’t bothering to take it slow, seemingly eager to get it over with. He ran right past you, noticing you a second too late as dirt and debris were chucked straight into his face. 

He yelled out in surprise, hands reaching out to grab you but you jumped out of reach. True to his word his capture weapon was nowhere in sight. Screaming in anger you lunged at him, nails attempting to claw his face but his own larger hands were working on wiping off your dirt assault, effectively blocking you.  

He stumbled back a bit, unprepared for your hostility, before steadying himself and turning the tables back on you. In one swift motion his fist collided with your gut, forcing the air from your lungs. Your arms came down to protect where he had hit as you wheezed pathetically. Seconds later his larger frame came crashing into you, easily knocking you to the ground. 

You cried out in pain, head hitting the ground a bit too hard as stars danced behind your eyes.

“Not very smart of you Y/N, I mean it beats trying to outrun me, but really? Dirt? It’s like you want me to punish you or something.”

“GET OFF ME!” 

Placing a hand on the back of your head he pushed you down while his other arm pulled the lower half of your body flush against him. You could feel his erection pressing up against your ass.

You were a snarling sobbing mess at this point. All your emotions crashing down at once as you thrashed below Shouta.

“Easy now easy, calm down kitten. You did really good, better than I thought you were going to. If you calm down I might be willing to reduce your punishment, but you have to stop throwing a fit first.”

Despite his words Shouta was enjoying almost every second of your thrashing. The only thing he didn’t enjoy was knowing how disappointed you were right now. Anyone would be after coming so far. Now was his chance to make it up to you before giving Toshinori the go ahead. 

As your struggles subsided the only movement from your body was from your gentle sobs. Shouta for his part was slowly grinding his hard cock against your ass as he softly shushed you. 

“I know you’re disappointed kitten but I’ll make you feel better. If you’re a good girl for me I’ll be willing to look past that little dirt tactic. You’re such a smart girl though, you really did catch me by surprise.”

Leaning down he began to whisper into your ear, removing the hand from your head and bringing it down to your clothed pussy. 

“You always were resourceful, it’s one of the things I fell in love with about you. If only you were a hero, but then again if you were I wouldn’t have had the fun of hunting you down.”

You felt your stomach drop at his words. All three of them enjoyed reminiscing about how they first saw you and all their subsequent actions that lead to your imprisonment. The effort they had put into bringing you “home”. It was beyond disturbing. 

“Please Shouta, not here. Can we, can we just go home first?”

“Maybe if I had found you 4 hours ago, but right now you’re treading on very thin ice. Be a good girl for me and I’ll make sure Hizashi and Toshinori don’t punish you too harshly when we get back.”

His large hand was pawing at your clothed sex, black hair draping over your own face as his body curled around you. He slowly rutted against you, excited huffs of air ghosting across the side of your face. You could practically feel his heart vibrating against your back he was so worked up. 

He gently rubbed his stubble against the side of your face, composure slipping a bit. While Shouta absolutely loved how feisty you could be, nothing compared to when you submitted to him. He craved the feeling of your tired body giving in to his ministrations, but he needed more. 

His hand quickly slipped between your pants and underwear, index finger eagerly aiming for your folds. He couldn’t care less that you were sweaty and dirty from the hunt. Right now all he could think about was the softness of your exposed flesh, and much to his delight, the slight wetness to your outer lips. 

“Seems like someone likes being caught more than they let on hmm kitten?”

He couldn't help but taunt you a bit, loving the way you sniffled and whimpered beneath him. You knew when to behave yourself, when to be good for him. Arousal was flooding his veins. The way it felt to rub himself against your perfect ass, even through layers of clothes, had his mind blanking out. 

Your core was warm, even without him dipping a finger inside. Gently he began to delve deeper, gathering up your arousal to spread around. Your pants were starting to bother him a bit, retracting his hands he made quick work of not only your bottoms, but his as well. You remained still for him, opting to sulk like a child as he prepared to ravish you. 

You were too cute like this, and with the lower half of your body on full display he couldn't help but groan in delight. Bringing a hand down he slapped your ass hard, mesmerized by the way your flesh gave way. You yelped in surprise, body rutting forward. His cock twitched as he palmed your sore flesh, cooing softly in apology. You glared back at him, pretty little face set in a pout.

As much as he wanted to slap your ass until you cried for him to stop he restrained himself. Although this was a punishment, he had set you up. He would go easy on you, not forgetting his promise to himself to help you forget the frustration you were feeling right now. 

Whenever you got angry you opted to stop talking, instead waiting for a moment of weakness to strike or quietly accept your fate. Judging by your defeated expression he could safely assume the latter 

Folding himself over you he brought his hand back down to your pussy, thumb working slow circles on your clit while he middle finger delved deeper. Your entrance was a bit tight, but with gentle persistence he worked his way inside. 

Your velvety inner walls clamped down on him. He couldn’t help but rut his aching cock against your bare ass as his mind drifted to the feeling of you clamping down on his arousal instead. Your whines of protest only further spurring on his overwhelming need to be inside you. 

Adding a second finger he began to pump into you with a bit more urgency. Your slick was quickly coating his hand as he hit all the spots he knew would work you up to your orgasm. Groaning in delight he brought his lips to your exposed neck, sucking and nipping at your soft flesh. 

He loved when he could tell you were getting close. Your warm walls would clamp down on him, breathy mewls and moans escaping your soft lips. You were rocking back into him, uncaring of the fact that you were grinding against him as you chased your release. In these moments you abandoned your resolve to fight against him, and he happily took advantage of that. After all, if your body knew what you wanted, surely your mind would catch up one day.

Your moans were more audible now, hands grasping at the forest floor. Your back was arched into him, desperate to use him. So close, you were so close he knew it, and right before you could finish he pulled his hand away. He laughed as you huffed in frustration. 

“Shouta pl-please.” Fuck, he loved it when you begged. It didn’t happen often with how stubborn you were but when it did he knew he had to comply. 

Instead of verbally responding he opted to do what he wanted to all night long. Lining up the tip of his cock to your entrance he groaned at the heat radiating off you. Pumping his hand along his length a couple times to lube himself up with your excess fluid he pushed the tip in. You stilled beneath him, and in one swift movement he fully sheathed himself. 

His mind went blank as you cried out in pleasure, wet walls convulsing around him as your orgasm tore through you. He held still, opting to gently pet you while cooing softly down at you. Before he met you, even with Hizashi, he had never been very vocal during sex. But now he couldn’t stop himself from babbling a bit, praising you for being such a good girl. 

As your body stilled in his arms he continued to plant kisses along your delicate neck. Your soft sniffles made his heart clench a bit, how was it possible for you to be so damn cute? 

“Alright kitten now it’s my turn. No pulling anything stupid, I won’t take long.”

This whole hunt had been one giant tease, working him up in a way he normally wouldn’t allow himself. Pulling out he groaned at the feeling of his cock sliding against you. Moving his hands he grabbed your waist, eyes transfixed on where you were joined. Your back was arched as you braced yourself on your elbows, presenting yourself to him. 

His mind clouded over, blood opting to drag his attention elsewhere. He began to push back in, desperate to feel you surrounding him. Setting a tempo he pulled about halfway out before slamming back in, loving the way your body moved as you bounced off him. 

His hands dug into your supple flesh, possibly leaving bruises. He could feel the oncoming of his own orgasm, the muscles in his lower abdomen pulsating. He was panting, heart racing in his rib cage as his eyes rolled back into his head. He didn’t have the patience to edge himself today, he needed this, needed you.

He loved hearing the way your breath was forced from your lungs when he fully sheathed himself inside you. He knew he was overstimulating you a bit, but the part of him that needed to find his own release didn’t pay that fact much mind. All he could think about was the way it felt to be one with you, lost inside your soft warmth.  

After only a couple more minutes of relentlessly pounding into you he couldn’t hold it back any longer. A wave like sensation rushed through his body as his hips stuttered. He folded over you, wrapping his arms around you as he felt his hot cum rush through his cock and fill your body. The emotions rushing through him as he released into you, the woman he loved, were indescribable.

It didn’t take long for his muscles to relax, euphoria swept away by the need to take a nap washing over him. You had long since stopped crying, remaining motionless beneath him. He wondered what was going through your mind as he held you flush against him.

“Sho-Shouta.” So meek, so quiet. His heart fluttered a bit. “Can we go home now... I want to take a shower.”

Chuckling softly he pulled himself out, groaning a bit at the feeling of overstimulation as your warm walls dragged against him. Leaning away he smiled as his cum leaked out your pussy. 

“Yes kitten we can go home. I’ll make sure to clean you up.”

You groaned in protest, hating when they insisted on washing you. He knew you liked your privacy but Hizashi and Toshinori were still going to want to punish you. He’d keep close by to keep them from being too harsh. 

Pulling up his pants he fished his phone out of his pocket, rolling his eyes at the sheer quantity of missed calls from the two aforementioned. Poor little kitten, it didn’t look like you’d be getting off easy. 

[nataliedanovelist]

GF - Starshine o’ Mine

A Drifting Stars AU one-shot, in collaboration with @clownwry​ (who made this GORGEOUS piece of art! PLEASE go follow her and check out her other work!).

1st, 3rd, 4th.

Ford held his knees, curled up into a ball against the wall of his cell. It was quite big, clearly built in case it needed to hold larger prisoners, but it made the human feel more alone than he already did, the large room looming over him like a monster. There was no bed or bench, only a barred window for air at the very top of the cell, that leaked moonlight into the hopeless situation and displayed the stars.

This wasn’t the first time he had been thrown in prison. This was his fifth time being captured.

The first time he had been out in the Multiverse for a year and had been caught by a tribe of hunters in a desert, clearly looking for a large meal, but Ford easily escaped with his ray gun and ran for the next wormhole.

The second time he had accidentally eaten a planet in his fifth year of dimension-hopping, and only managed to escape prison thanks to some mad scientist with blue hair.

The third time he was captured by slave-sellers, and he was lucky enough to be bought by an undercover rebellion, who only bought slaves to free them.

And the fourth time he had been captured Ford dropped his pants because the species were extremely uncomfortable with nudity and he walked out without a struggle.

This time was different than the other times, however. Every other time he had been captured, his mind was only occupied with survival and escape. No sense in panicking, that only clouded his thoughts and made it harder to think of a way out. But this time was different. It was extremely hard to think of a way out. It was nearly impossible not to worry. Because this time he cared about someone. This time he had someone that needed him to escape.

Ford wasn’t just thrown into a cell; He had also been chained around the neck, wrists, and ankles, and the chains were bolted to the wall. There was dry blood in his fluffy gray hair from the blow that had knocked him out. He had burrowed Mabel away just in time and begged her to stay hidden and stay safe. Ford had no idea if she had been caught and didn’t dare ask the guards that had dragged him to his cell; what if they had no idea she was out there and Ford’s questions only informed them of another prize? No news must be good news, but how long could Mabel stay safe without him to protect her?

He had to think of a way out, he had to! But nothing came to mind. He had nothing but the clothes on his back, he was chained and bound. He thought of a dozen escape plans, all of which were futile and doomed to fail. At least…

Ford’s ears detected movement. It resembled a mouse on pavement. Maybe a small rodent was climbing a bricked wall close by. But then he heard a puff of hair that sounded too big to come from tiny lungs. Ford looked up at the barred window and his eyes widened as he saw Mabel climbing up to the window, just the right size so she could balance on her knees and cling to the bars and block the moonlight coming into the cell.

Mabel smiled brightly at him, and Ford happily returned the grin. He instantly stood and forgot his chains, until he nearly choked himself getting to the wall of the window. He looked behind him and saw that he had run out of chain, but he maneuvered and pulled and allowed his throat to become uncomfortably tight, so maybe he could reach her. Ford reached a hand up to her as much as he could, and Mabel met him by leaning against the bars and stretching a hand down to him.

It was just enough. They could hold each other’s hand, Ford safely keeping Mabel’s fingers between his own fingers and his thumb, caressing his thumb over her small joints in the middle of her fingers.

It was miraculous how quickly all of his fear and worry left him at the sight of his niece. Ford was more than happy to see her again and to be holding her hand, but his smile dropped when he saw Mabel’s eyes water, and some tears escaped as she shut her eyes and turned her head away in a sad attempt to hide them.

Ford, surprisingly enough, knew exactly what to say, but he couldn’t risk a guard overhearing him and endangering Mabel, so he settled for squeezing her hand and silently begging her to look at him. The little girl met her eyes with his and he said a million things to her with those brown eyes that matched her own. He smiled kindly, proudly, at her, and Mabel managed to smile weakly with a trembling lip. Ford stretched to try to wipe her cheeks dry, but the chains were too tight and held him back, and the bars of the window stopped Mabel from leaning any closer.

Ford smiled apologetically, but Mabel understood. She wiped her tears away with the sleeve of her coat, and there it was. That smile that coated Ford’s soul in peace. That smile that would drive him to destroy a whole dimension if necessary. That smile that he felt was only worthy for a daughter to give to her father.

Mabel and Ford both heard it. The sounds of casual chatter and bumping armor. Mabel looked to her left and saw the shadows of two guards coming around the corner. She had maybe a minute to get away.

Ford smiled mournfully and let go of Mabel’s hand, gently pushing her limb away, but Mabel was quick and grabbed his hand again, begging not to let go. Though it was hard to keep it together, the old man made himself do it for her. Ford smoothed the little girl’s fingers with his thumb and squeezed her hand goodbye. Mabel bit her lip, and forced a smile. She squeezed him back, and then slowly their hands parted as the uncle lowered his aching arm and the niece backed away, and then climbed down from the window.

Ford had no idea why, but he continued to look out the window, as if somehow he would catch a glimpse of his girl. But all he had was a clear view of the star-filled sky, and was curly blessed with a small shooting star. Ford blinked, and only just now became aware of the tear on his cheek.

He wiped it away stubbornly and cleared his throat. He had to find a way out, he had to! He resumed his spot on the floor, and he buried his twelve fingers into his hair as he combed his mind for a successful idea.

About ten minutes after his last visitor, Ford had a new one. The door for the cells opened and the prisoner watched as two guards came towards him, one wearing a backpack. He scowled, ready for whatever they had planned, and one guard unlocked his door and asked weirdly casually, “How’s it going, eh?”

Ford gave him a suspicious look. “Erm…”

The other guard opened his backpack and Mabel popped out like a happy jack-in-the-box. “Hi, Grunkle Ford!”

“Mabel!” Ford gasped and stood, meanwhile the first guard was detaching the chains from the wall with a small key. “Wh-What is going on?!” He hissed.

“I made some friends!”

“I can see that.”

“G’day, there.” The first guard replied calmly. “Okay, here’s what’s gonna happen, see. We’re gonna pretend we’re movin’ you, but we’re gonna take you to the mouth of the sewers. It’s a clear cut to the woods where you’ll be safe, y’hear?”

“Uh… I hear.”

“Okay, back in you go, Lil’Bit.” The second guard said, and Mabel nodded and hid in the backpack again.

Ford was almost in a daze as he was escorted across the prison in chains. Somehow, Mabel had not only convinced two loyal guards to not turn her in, but to also assist in his escape. How, he has no idea. But maybe he doesn't need to know. Maybe he just needs to trust his niece. He thought he did, but clearly he needed to improve on that. And he fully intended to.

[ginwalt]

woah can you maybe please write a prequel with wanda x r getting together, and maybe carol and nat meeting r for the first time? (in reference to that amazing last post of yours!!)

A/N: Okay soooo this took a little bit longer than expected lol,,, I tried incorporating Wanda and R meeting but it was nearly 7,000 words before I even got to Carol and Nat meeting R. (Also the writing was horrible) so I scrapped that and started over with just Carol and Nat meeting R.

Warnings: gun wounds and blood.

Word Count: 3k

Read the first one here.

--

"Do we have to tell them? I don't see why we can't just live our entire lives without Natasha and Carol knowing."

Wanda looked over at you with a raised brow, "Y/n, you are overreacting. Natasha and Carol can be a bit protective," you shot her an incredulous look.

"A bit?"

"-But, it isn't like they will kill you. Now stop pacing; you are wearing a track into the carpet." You halted your nervous loop and rubbed a hand over our face. Wanda's roommates and self-proclaimed mother figures were on their way back home from a mission. They had been gone for a few weeks, and the job had gone off without a hitch. In an uncharacteristic display of optimism, your girlfriend suggested that this would be the best time to tell them about your relationship. They were bound to be in a great mood from the mission's success so, the chances of them killing you were slimmer. Hopefully.

Outside of missions and monthly SHIELD meetings, you had little to no interaction with the two superheroes. The only one-on-one conversations you have had with Natasha or Carol have crashed and burned with you stammering and avoiding eye contact until awkwardly parting ways.

Wanda, having read your anxious thoughts, cradled your face in her hands and smiled. "Sweetie, I'm sure they will love you. Now, we have a decent amount of time before they get back..." she trailed off and moved her hands so that they looped around your neck. Your girlfriend tilted her head so that her lips were barely grazing your jawline. "We should use that time productively." Shuddering, you scrambled to straddle her lap with your thighs. Wanda chuckled at your eagerness and captured your lips with her own.

You arched your back and leaned further against her as she traced her hands up and down your back. You let out a small gasp as she settled them against your ass. Then, squeezing playfully, she grinned into the kiss and slipped her tongue past your parted lips. You pulled away and let out a breathy, "Cheater."

Wanda nipped lightly at your lower lip before poking out her lip in a fake pout. "Oh, I know. I'm awful."

You scowled and clenched your thighs and fists, using your leverage to switch your positions; you pinned her against the couch cushions. "And mean," you pecked a kiss against her jaw, "and terrible," a harsh bite to her collarbone, "and a bully." Wanda arched her back into your body as you continued to pepper her neck with slow kisses. You wrapped your arms around her back and moved her legs so that they were locked around your waist. Sitting up, you hastily pinned her against the window sill.

Wanda gasped and clutched at the back of your shirt, "Oh, you are going to be in so much trouble after this."

You lapped and sucked at the pale column of her neck for a moment before parting to peer up at her with a smug grin. "Says who?"

Wanda reached up to trail her thumb over the bottom of your lip before leaning in closer to your ear, "Keep kissing me like that, and I might consider not turning that perky little ass black and blue." You smothered your breathy moan in the crook of her neck. Quickly, you grasped at the hem of her shirt and tugged it over her head. Wanda followed suit by returning the favor.

You opened your mouth to say something else when both of you froze. The front door had slammed open. Before either of you could react, there was a sound of tramping boots, and suddenly, you were sent flying across the room by a strong hand. Gasping, you slid across the carpet and landed against the opposite wall. Your vision cleared to reveal Black Widow and Captain Marvel standing over you in a fighting position.

Wanda quickly ran over to the two of them and wedged herself between you and your surprise assailants. "Wait! She's not an attacker, I promise!"

Carol loosened lightly. However, she did not drop her fists, "We saw you struggling through the window and assumed there had been an attack."

You could not see your girlfriend's face from your vantage point on the floor; however, you assumed it was glowing red. The witch sheepishly crossed her arms over her bare stomach. She was wearing nothing but black pajama shorts and a matching bra. In any other situation, that would be enough to have you opening your legs then and there. However, after tonight you had no inclination to have sex ever again. "Natasha, Carol, this is my girlfriend, Y/n," she gestured to you as you scrambled to your feet.

Despite being dressed in a sports bra and sweatpants, you felt naked as two pairs of eyes settled on you. "Hi," you squeaked, offering a small wave.

Carol's eyes lit up in recognition, "You're that nervous little hacker Fury hired awhile back."

You felt your cheeks heat as you looked down at the carpet, "That's me."

Natasha's look of shock slowly morphed into a grin that one could only describe as sadistic. "So, if no one was under attack, that means..."

Wanda buried her face in her hands, "Please do not finish that sentence."

The assassin held her hands up in surrender, the smirk never leaving her face. "I didn't say anything. Now let's sit down- with all of our clothes on- and talk about this." You kept your gaze glued to the floor as you snatched your shirt and pulled it back on. You sat down next to Wanda, careful not to let any of your body touch hers. Glancing up, you saw Carol and Natasha peering down at you like a hawk would a field mouse.

"How did you two meet?" Natasha asked, folding her arms over her chest.

Wanda scratched the back of her neck, "We met in our programming class and then again at an on-campus coffee shop."

"And how did you hide this from a former Kree soldier and an assassin?" Carol asked.

"I would usually invite her over when you and Nat were away on missions," the witch explained.

"So this isn't the first time you have attempted to stain our new sofa?" Natasha asked. You suspected the question was rhetorical.

"Wanda, could you go upstairs for a minute? We would like to have a little chat with miss Y/n alone," the assassin requested, a too-sweet smile on her face.

You looked over at Wanda, silently pleading for her not to leave. Despite being telepathic, Wanda ignored your internal screeching and nodded, "I'll be in my room." As you watched her go, you started praying to whatever deity was up in the sky to keep you safe.

Natasha and Carol sat down on either side of you, shark-like grins on their faces. "So, Y/n, what are your plans for dating Wanda?" Carol asked, peering down her nose at you.

"Uh, what do you mean?" You shrunk further into the crack in the cushions. The back of your neck had started becoming slick and hot with nervous sweat as you looked anywhere but at the two women.

"I'm sure you are aware of Wanda's past and how much she has lost. The last thing we would want is for you to... reopen old wounds," Natasha said. Her voice was like sharpened steel as she stared you down.

Your eyes widened in shock as you looked over at her, "I would never hurt her, miss. Wanda is the first real relationship I have ever had, and I have no intentions of screwing that up."

Carol sighed and rested a hand on your shoulder. You nearly jumped out of your skin at the sudden contact. "You seem like a nice kid, Y/n. But, if you ever have sex in our living room again, knowing we'll be coming home soon. It will be the last thing you ever do."

You nodded and looked down at your lap. "Yes, ma'am."

--

From that day on, your interactions with Natasha and Carol were even more painful than before. Because, now the two had taken to "hazing" you, as Wanda described it. They would walk up behind you as silent as a panther ready to attack before barking an order at you. Every time this happened, you would nearly fall out of your seat, completely messing up whatever work you were doing on your computer. Usually, it would be something as simple as getting them a coffee- a task that was typically reserved for the interns. However, you scampered off without complaint and grabbed them what they needed from the breakroom.

"They will settle down, Y/n," Wanda assured. She was sitting on your desk, completely disrupting the research you were currently doing on one of your monitors. Her chunky combat boots were propped up on the armrest of your desk chair as she used her magic on a pen resting across from her.

"Natasha and Carol hate me, Wan," you groaned.

Wanda snickered and flicked the hovering pen at you with a streak of red magic. You huffed and pushed it away. "They don't hate you. If they really did not like you dating me, you would have been fired from SHIELD already. Nat and Carol can be protective, that's all. I think they are actually quite fond of you."

You scoffed, "That might be pushing it."

"I'm serious. Whenever you come up in conversation, they will always refer to you as my 'little hacker' or 'that cute nerd.'" Wanda hopped off your desk and planted a sweet kiss onto your cheek.

"They will grow to accept you, I promise."

--

That acceptance came on a rather stressful mission. It was your first time out in the field, and you were armed with nothing but a handgun and a taser. Your job was to hack into the terrorist organization's database and steal information about the location of their bombs and alien tech. In addition, Natasha, Carol, and Wanda were sent with you to rescue valuable hostages the terrorists were keeping in the basement of their HQ.

Natasha was sent with you for protection, much to Wanda's displeasure. The idea of leaving you alone in a den of wolves made the witch want to wrap you up in a blanket and run out of there. However, Carol needed Wanda's abilities to get to the hostages. So, that is how you found yourself shimmying through a ventilation shaft behind Black Widow. It was unbearably hot in the vents as you tried to maneuver through in sweat-slicked clothes. Your hair was clinging to your face in wet strands as you backed up to allow Natasha to kick open the slatted hatch below you.

She hopped down and looked around the security room before motioning for you to leap down. With far less grace, you jumped down to the tiled floor with a muffled grunt. Then, sliding into a desk chair that sat in front of over twenty different monitors, you set to work. Your fingers flew over the keys as you glared a the screens in front of you.

"How are we doing, Y/n?" Natasha called over her shoulder. Her gun readied in her hands.

"They have really advanced firewalls," you grunted. "But, I think I can figure a way around them."

"I hear footsteps," the assassin called. "Hurry up back there."

Your hands were cramped painfully as you reached into your pocket to grab a flash drive. Shoving it into the USB port, you fired off the last few commands. As a loading screen popped up, the metal door to the security room boomed open. You leaped out of your chair, hand reaching for your gun immediately. Six armed soldiers charged towards you, and the Black Widow with firearms and other weapons raised.

Natasha pivoted on her feet and kicked one of the men's guns from his hands. The rifle skittered across the tile and landed near the desk. Without looking back, Natasha shouted, "Get the flash drive, and go."

You glanced at the half-complete loading screen that was flashing a 5-minute timer. "What about you?" Natasha didn't reply, instead opting to turn her focus back to the man she was currently wrestling to the floor. Two other soldiers surrounded her while the three remaining ran towards you.

Scrambling to remember any combat you had learned in SHIELD training, you slammed your taser against one of their temples. The man convulsed and fell away from you with a cry of agony. Your hands shook violently as you tripped over the desk chair to recover the now complete flash drive. Another scar-faced man grasped at the back of your neck and pulled you towards him. You grunted and squirmed in his grip as the other one raised a gun to your head.

A loud bang sounded, and the gunman was toppling to the ground, blood leaking from his neck. The man holding you fell to the floor with the sound of another gunshot. You stumbled forward, away from the bodies. Grabbing the flash drive, you turned to face Natasha. Your relief was cut short when you saw a man, seemingly playing dead on the ground as he aimed his gun towards the assassin's head.

Crying out, you lunged into action faster than you could think. Your strides cleared the room in two healthy bounds as you tackled the soldier. You managed to get in two good kicks and a headbutt before another sickening bang echoed through the room. It took you a minute to register that the blow did not come from Natasha. You stumbled back and slowly peered down at your stomach. A stain of crimson was now leaking from a hole in your shirt.

Your vision grew bleary, and your ears were stuffed with cotton. Was that red stain new? You thought dimly as your feet fell from under you. You heard another shot, now much fuzzier and far off. Then, before your body could hit the floor, you felt two strong arms scoop you up. No, you decided, that stain had not always been there. It was blood; you were bleeding.

"Oh," you muttered, looking down at your leaking abdomen. "Thass not good," you slurred, peering up at the person carrying you.

Your brain vaguely registered them as Natasha. She looked down at you with an expression you had never quite seen before. "You have to stay awake for me. Can you do that?" Her request was quiet and strangely shaky.

You furrowed your brows; Natasha was never shaky about anything. You didn't like it. "Iss alrigh' Nat, you aren' hurt. What 'swrong?" If the assassin wasn't injured, then why was she crying? The Black Widow never cried.

"I know I'm not hurt, kid. That isn't the problem," she assured you with a humorless chuckle.

You winced as her running jostled your wound, "I think 'm hurt, Widow. Hurt real bad." Tears gathered in your eyes at the agony radiating from the hole in your abdomen.

"You're going to be alright, sweetie. I promise." Natasha held you closer to her chest.

"I'm glad I got to you, though," you continued. "Cause you and Carol already don' like me so, you definitely wouldn' be happy if I failed you."

You felt Natasha's hand go to cradle the back of your head. A gentle kiss was placed on the crown of your head. "We don't hate you, I promise. You're a really sweet kid. I'm really proud that Wanda found you."

Despite the black dots consuming your vision, you felt your chest explode with joy. "'N Carol too?"

Natasha chuckled, "Yeah, and Carol too." Then, as the last of your vision faded, you felt a smile rest on your face.

--

The first thing you registered when you awoke was the sound of beeping. It was annoying as all hell and caused the pain in your skull to worsen. You were warm, almost to the point of discomfort, and your abdomen was radiating a numb tingling. Almost as if it wasn't there at all.

Cracking your eyes open, you took in the dim room around you. It was a bedroom made up of plain oak furniture and eggshell walls. A guest room, maybe? Beside you was an IV that was hooked up to your forearm and a heartrate monitor. On the bedside table was a vase of expensive-looking flowers and an orange pill bottle.

You peeled back the three blankets that had been stacked on top of you to see a thick layer of gauze wrapped around your stomach. You were dressed in a sports bra and Captain America shield boxer shorts. Where was everyone? Who was everyone? Gritting your teeth, you slid out of bed. Nauseating pangs threatened to buckle you as you gripped at the IV stand next to you. You limped towards the door, the metal stand used as a makeshift cane. You scrambled to open the door with clammy hands. Once you stepped into the hallway, you realized where you were—Wanda's house.

"Wan? Are you here?" You called, your voice hoarse. Down the hall, to your right, you heard two doors fly open. Natasha, Carol, and Wanda came rushing out, eyes wild with concern.

"Babe, what the hell are you doing out of bed," your girlfriend asked, hands hovering around you as if you were a house of cards. You attempted to bat her hands away before stumbling slightly at the effort.

Carol rushed to your side and wrapped an arm around your waist. "Shit, kid, take it easy. Don't want to reopen that bullethole, do we?"

"What happened? Did we get the flash drive," you looked between the three of them.

Wanda shook her head and started leading you back to the guest bed. "Of course, that's the first thing you are worried about after nearly dying." She gently settled you back into bed and pulled the covers back over your body. "But, yes, the flash drive and the hostages are safe in Fury's possession, thanks to you."

You scoffed, "I'm just the techy. I didn't really do anything," you shrugged. "Besides, you three were the muscle."

Natasha scoffed and stepped forward, "You saved my life, Y/n."

Picking at a loose thread on the blanket, you shook your head, "I wouldn't go that far. I'm sure you could have handled it."

The assassin shook her head, "I didn't realize that he was still alive until you were on top of him."

Carol smiled and ruffled your hair, "You did good, kid. Thanks for saving my wife." Your answering grin was nearly blinding.

[mrsgiovanna]

Near misses and first kisses (Don Giorno x Fem!Reader)

As one can see, the naming conventions still leave a lot to be desired. This was a cute request from a nonnie mouse. I hope you enjoy the read my sweet. This takes place in an AU where everyone makes it.

TW: none, just fluff

Word count: 1.2 k

You two were the youngest couple in the room, and yet you had still commanded the attention of the entire ballroom. Well, “couple” was a bit of an overstatement, it was just that you were always the one accompanying the young don Giovanna when there was a formal event to attend and he needed someone elegant on his arm, being one of the few people close to him, it was only natural that you would be the one to go.

Everyone around you always marveled at how elegantly you had carried yourselves, despite your tender ages, you worked the room like seasoned professionals allowing him to seamlessly embody he title of Don of Passione. Tonight’s grand dinner was slightly different though, Giorno had been acting out of sorts for the better part of the evening and your attention had been spread so thinly you barely had a chance to check on your companion. Even the others had noticed the difference in him and looked to you for an explanation, however you were unable to offer one. You and Giorno had always been close. Being the first person he bonded with when joining Passione, most of his free time outside of running the organization would be spent with you. It’s not like you had minded in any case, there was a kinship, or familiarity that you shared with just Giorno, a bond that was unique to just you two.

Watching Giorno from across the room, you saw his strained smile, the slight grimace each time someone beckoned for his attention, you wanted to save him from a few overly eager patrons, when you were dragged away by a few overly eager friends of your own.

“(y/n)! you gotta help us, come on, we’ll explain as we walk there,” said Narancia, perhaps louder than he would have liked to, drawing Giorno’s gaze toward the small commotion.

“Nara, calm down, tell me what happened…” trying to get the full story from your flustered friend. Thankfully, by the time you had gotten to the scene, Bruno had sorted the problem out without as much as breaking a sweat.

“Well, if everything’s okay, I’ll head back… what?” before you could fully turn around to rejoin the party inside, you looked at the former bodyguard squad of Passione, all giving you the same teasing expression they always did before they bombarded you with lighthearted jibes regarding your relationship with the young don of Passione. Your eyes pleaded with them to grant you some respite from their questions, however this was not the case.

“Guys, don’t make her uncomfortable, (y/n) return to Giorno, he’ll be looking for you, the rest of you, go back inside, there’s nothing going on here,” interjected Bucciarati, offering you a chance to escape, which you gladly exploited, mouthing an emphatic thank you to your raven haired savior, the clattering of your designer heels echoing in the foyer as you ran off. Bruno had always had a soft spot for you, treating you more like a younger sister than a soldatessa.

He noticed the gradual change in your interactions with Giorno, and would always smile knowingly when confronted with questions regarding the dons slow burning fascination with you. He was thankful that the risky plan had paid off all those years ago, and felt happy to see you and Giorno finally taking the time to focus on yourselves as opposed to dedicating every moment to the organization. As things began to settle down and Passione was finally the type of organization he could be proud of, he had gradually taken over a few more activities from Giorno, affording the young man some time to make up for the years he had lost in his youth, and fortunately, all of those plans had included you.

From seaside vacations, to trips to snow peaked mountains, you both relished in these novel experiences that were once just a dream, fashioning a bond that grew ever stronger with each shared experience.

“Nara, why are you always messing with her?” quizzed Trish while rolling her eyes as Mista slung an arm around her dainty shoulders.

“I don’t know, it’s fun I guess, (y/n) used to be really close to us before everything got so busy, I guess I just miss those times… don’t you Mista?”

“I guess, a lot has changed… we’ve grown up… we’re responsible for a whole lot more than we once were, it’s only natural that we drift a bit,” reasoned the gunslinger. “That doesn’t mean we aren’t there for each other any longer, come on, lets go back in, the pistols aren’t going to feed themselves,”.

“You’re kidding right? All they do is help themselves to my stuff!” retorted Narancia, walking back with the others to rejoin the festivities of the evening.

As the crowd of bubbly partygoers thinned out, you both decided to escape to the balcony overlooking the stunning Naples skyline. Looking around just once more, you took off the heels that had now become a new-age torture device and shrank a few inches which Giorno found hilarious, letting out a small laugh as he looked down at you.

“Hey! There used to be a time when you couldn’t look down your nose at me like that,”

“I’m sorry, I couldn’t hear you from all the way down there,”

“Oh, so that’s how you’re choosing to play it? I’ll beat you at your own game Gio,”

“Are you testing me, (y/n)?

“Maybe…” you shot Giorno a flirtatious look as you hoisted yourself onto the railing of the balcony, giving yourself the height you needed to get closer to his eyelevel,”

“Eh, I’ve never been phased by tests anyway,” he countered, keeping a watchful eye on you. Despite gripping the railing with both hands, you underestimated the lack of traction your silky outfit offered and began to slip, fortunately for you though, Giorno’s quick reflexes saw to it that you were safely ensconced in his arms.

“Thank you… I… why are you looking at me like that?”

“Oh? So you’ve finally noticed?” Giorno cocked his brow, staring you down again, only this time his face was being drawn closer to yours as if being enacted upon by a magnetism that you both couldn’t counter… not that either of you wanted to. Abandoning your thoughts, you both allowed yourselves to fall gently into the kiss, lips overlapped as he captured your bottom lip between his. Faces moving in sync with each other, you felt as if you would float off if it weren’t for the pair of strong arms holding on to your hips. All too quickly, the magical kiss had ended and you were left yearning for the closeness you both shared just moments ago.

“Listen, (y/n), I’m sorry, this isn’t how I wanted to-”

Silencing him with your thumb brushing against his bottom lip as you held the side of his burning red face, your eyes pleaded with him, but your lips said it out aloud, “Do it again, Gio… kiss me again…”. Not needing a second invitation, the young don honoured your request, weaving his fingers into your hair.

Enraptured by each other, completely oblivious to the tiny audience of your most loved friends watching fondly through the glass door, you and Giorno spent the rest of the night in each other’s warm embrace, relishing the newfound sense of intimacy that was all borne from one impulsive kiss.

[gaiuswrites]

King of Cups || Chapter 5

Chapter 5: The Moon

Archive: ao3 | masterlist | four

Pairing: Din Djarin x fem!Reader

Summary: All relationships are about give and take.

Word count: 7k~

Rating: Explicit (Mature until the last few paragraphs)

Warnings/tags: nightmares, trauma, drinking, fluff and pining, drugs/being drugged (medicinal), wound care, blood, shots/needles, mature themes/language, emo shit, masturbation (f)

Notes: Hi friends. This is broken up in two portions: the first, being in Nevarro, and the second taking place some time later (hopefully that becomes clear when you read it heh). I'm hoping I captured the varying, distinct tones in each of the sections. Please feel free to reach out to me. :) Enjoy x (gif credit: @skyshipper)

They come at night.

The visions.

Your legs are rock, crumbling - eroding - with each weighted step, trudging through the city you once knew, laid bare to waste all around you. The air is grey brown, chalked with dust—with ash. There are bodies lining the road like trimmed hedges, floating by their ankles—ugly, corporal zeppelins. They’re pale. Their eyes are burned to coal and their tongues hang dead and waxy from their mouths.

They begin the same, choreographed like this; you follow the paths your mind has carved out for you, time and time again.

You spot him, plated in silver at the end of the row. Your feet stop. You see him, and he sees you. You feel his eyes - hawkish, piercing - under the murk of his visor. A predator’s gaze. He’s got a man in his fist—you think you recognize him, you might not—held by the scruff of his neck.

Sometimes it’s X’elo, bending to break in his gloved grasp. Other times, a stranger—a half remembered photograph—a memory of a memory of another dream entirely.

And sometimes, it’s you.

You hear the howl of wind scream through your bones—through the bones of the ruins there—but you don’t feel it. There’s only heat—the kind that’s unavoidable and omnipresent, as heavy as guilt. The hunter brings his hands to frame the man’s temples—yours too, sometimes— pebbles and slate trembling off you as you move towards them. You’re running, you realize, immobile but running and you’re not sure how or why—you never get there in time to find out.

He snaps his neck. You hear the crunch in your own ear—inside your own head.

It becomes night—blood moons drip wet from the sky. They splash onto the dirt. It turns to mud, caking the underside of your boots, squelching as you walk. You round a corner and—

You don’t recognize this. This is new. This— no, this is wrong.

A door. Rutted, freestanding—a dark monolith.

You stutter in your sleep, a crease in your brow.

It’s just a door.

No, not here—

A door. Black wood, a brass handle. Just a door, and you’re sweating. Just a door, and you’re suffocating—you’re being smothered—like your outsides are clawing to get back in through your throat and it’s sucking you in—this door, it’s just a door, it’s just a—closer, nearer, looming taller overhead—

You gasp awake, clutching at the scratchy blanket drenched cold with your sweat. Your rasps echo against the hull, sharp pants scraping the hollow metal, and you bring a hand to your chest—steadying, steadying, the fear of your racing heart.

You sit up, throwing your legs over the edge of the cot, and rake a shaky hand through your hair—the damp of the strands sticking to the nape of your neck. Your breathing evens out, tampering, with your forearms braced on the plats of your thighs; the rise and fall of your breasts against your sleep shirt quiet until you’ve stilled.

You roll off the bed, the aluminum frame whining with the shift, and you knock a knee into one of the carbonite pods as you stumble out of the storage room—your bedroom, now.

You couldn’t handle much more of it. You bought a bedroll the first planet you stopped to refuel at after Bajic, hermitting yourself away into the bowels of his ship. It was the only smidgen of untapped real estate left in the Crest, and it was far be it from you to complain about location. You were just thankful to be out of that copilot’s chair—no amount of bacta could unwind the knots in your neck after sleeping there night after restless night.

So you bunked with the bounties Mando had brought in, like one big macabre slumber party—the chrome slabs slotted up - watchful - in their chambers.

You try not to spare it much thought.

Padding through the Crest, soft bare feet leaving crescents on the steel deck, you step into the fresher to splash water on your face, jolting you back into the present and out of the nightmare, out of—

Just a door.

No—

You towel off, patting yourself dry. Inhaling, your lungs expand with the massive rush of air, and you hold it there until it hurts, until it prickles the corners of your eyes, and finally - deliberately - you release.

You look into the mirror.

You blink. She blinks back.

///

You make breakfast now.

It’s not something you both agreed to, it’s just something you do. Funny, how quickly you adapt to new normals, to new routines. You have rituals now—you two. You make breakfast, and you leave a bowl for him out on the counter before you slip into the shower. When you get out, the bowl is empty and the dishes are washed clean, drying face down on a rag. You smile. You never speak of it. Like ivy crawling up cobbled walls towards the sun, it happens— without prompt or feed, it simply is.

///

Nevarro reminds you of Dallenor—the craggy blandness of it, the endless black sands—and you fight the urge to hate it solely based on this principal alone.

You stay on the ship with the little one while Mando goes into town, meeting with some Greef Karga character to sew up Guild business. You have no idea how he ever managed to get any hunting done with the kid always acting up, pulling hijinks and inciting anarchy. He’s nearly torn the whole place to shreds. How such a tiny body can produce such a massive wake of damage is a mystery you will never solve.

You make yourself watch.

You force your jaw, set and held, as Karga’s men haul the quarries out of the ship, hovering eerily down the ramp.

X’elo, the smuggler from Vohai, some two-bit thief, and a woman Mando caught before you met, all parading single file out of the Crest like a funeral procession. They’re criminals, each and every one—they’re violent and they’ve done terrible, irredeemable things—but they’re people, too.

And isn’t that what makes it all so cruel. So sad.

The least you can do is give them an ounce of dignity before they’re subjected to their fate— however harsh, however fair.

So, you watch.

Maybe they don’t deserve it—they’re here by their own hand, after all, a bed of their own making— and maybe they haven’t earned it back any. But perhaps it’s less about what you can offer them and more about what you refuse to let the galaxy take. Because don’t you deserve to stay unfragmented? Complete? Would you rather be robbed of this humanity, your sense of decency—have it stolen from you?

Doesn’t it cost you nothing to be kind?

You pray neither sound nor fury will strip you of this—this open-eyed tenderness. You beg that you remain, undistilled, despite despite despite.

///

You’re so much more relaxed now then when you first came on board. You were as quiet as a church mouse then, tip toeing around the ship like you were afraid you’d ruin her.

Din will never admit it, but you even managed to get the jump on him once or twice—appearing exactly when and where he least expected. And he didn’t - couldn’t have - he didn’t expect you.

This.

And he looks at you now: lit by lamplight—the kerosene filament flickering warm in the dark hull— slotted back and humming to yourself as you swipe a finger over a holopad, feet propped up on a crate by the table, and it all looks organic. Right.

The drink in your hand, sloshing against the amber jug, no doubt eases your mood. You’re drinking it right from the bottle. He thinks it’s fucking charming.

“Enjoying yourself?”

“Maker above,” you hiss, startling a foot out of your seat. You shoot him an accusatory glare, but there’s no malice in it—there’s laughter ringing around your eyes.

Honestly, that man needs a bell on him.

“Don’t let me interrupt you,” he comments dryly, stepping past.

You move your legs from their perch and sit a little straighter. “You- you could join me,” you chime, “if you want.”

His feet slow until he’s stopped completely and he pans over his shoulder to you. You can’t read his expression—it’s steel all the way through— but you think you feel the air around you both quiver - shudder - with something unspoken, something kinetic.

The scrape of the chair as he pulls it out from the table is deafening, the thunk of his metal body sinking into it even louder.

“What are you reading?” Mando asks.

You cast him a sheepish smile. “CoreWorld News.”

“Anything good?”

Your mouth twists, biting the inside of your cheek. “Never.”

He huffs a breathy chuckle.

There didn’t seem to be any good news anymore. You forage for it—scouring the net for just a whiff of it, of something pure. There is plenty of greatness left in the world, but you find that what it lacks most is goodness— humble and precious. More often than not, you come up empty and disappointed—but never so dissuaded that you do not search again the next day, and the day after that, and after that and after that again.

“How’d it go with Karga?” you ask, setting the holopad down and switching off the display.

“Fine. Good.”

“Good,” you smile. He’s terse—sparse. You think it’s endearing now—vexing too, without a doubt, but the two aren’t mutually exclusive anymore.

“Nothing close to Coruscant yet. More outer rim chaavla,” he grits out, swallowing. “I’m sorry.”

There’s a tickle of bemusement in your voice and a quirk to your chin. “What are you apologizing for?”

“I know you want to get back.”

You hope the glow from the lantern in the galley is dim enough to camouflage the tinge sprung on your cheeks. The truth is becoming more and more clear to you, whether you like it or not: with each passing day, you want to go back to Coruscant less and less. You have to—you know you have to. You have your career, your whole life, waiting for you. But—

But.

“You told me it would take a while—longer than I’d like.”

“I know.”

“I’m happy to be here— I-I’m grateful,” you catch yourself.

He clenches his fist under the table, beyond your line of sight, gnarled tight into a ball. It tethers him down, anchoring him in place—because if he weren’t, fuck, he’d fly out of his seat so fast—

“Alright,” he chokes out.

“Alright,” you smile, glassy.

There’s a kind of mist encircling you two, an incense of a sort, intoxicating and sinewy and lulling you into a hushed calm. It’s thick around you - lush - and you can feel it settle like lead behind your eyes.

“Can I pour you a drink—for later?”

It’s late into the evening, well beyond the hour where the lines of decorum blur. You’ve crossed into the Other—that tarred, limber undertow. Dangerously weightless and free. The liminality between here and there— that twilight place.

Shadows bounce along the walls. Your outline—his too.

“I’d like that.”

///

You’re not as tipsy as you could be, but you’re less sober than you’d like.

Subconsciously, buried somewhere deep, you’re aware that Mando is humoring you and that you should let him get on with his night—but you don’t.

You’ll be annoyed at yourself later for this.

“Okay okay, what are your hobbies?”

A deadpan tilt of his helmet. “I—I don’t understand the question.”

You gape at him, your bottom lip glossed as it parts, plush and wet, and you laugh. “Hobbies,” you reiterate. “You know, stuff you like to do? For fun?”

You see the gears under that helm wheel and spin. It shouldn’t take anyone this long. The question is basic and the answer should be relatively immediate—but Mando has to mull it over. In all of his cycles, as hardened as they’ve been, he hasn’t been gifted the luxury of leisure - fun - and he hasn’t been afforded the time to dwell on the lack of it.

Selfless, without a moment of ownership to himself. This is the way.

“I-,” he pauses, mouth clamping shut. “Skip.”

“Fine, fine,” you tut. “What is... your favorite planet?”

Din stretches back, his beskar groaning against the chair.

All the planets he’d visited were out of necessity—out of demand and credit, never because he wanted to be there and certainly never out of favor. They were tainted—made insipid and unremarkable by the quarries he chased to them.

But there is one in particular that stands out; he remembers a planet the kid seemed to like—how he babbled the whole time, slung in the satchel at his hip, entranced and enthralled. He was on his best behavior, too—the little womp rat didn’t even try to stuff his tiny, wrinkled face with anything. Not once.

“Adega.”

“Adega,” you repeat, testing the name. “I don’t think I’ve heard of it. What’s it like?”

He draws in a long breath, his ribs yawning against the corset of his armor.

He should’ve gotten up by now—fuck, he shouldn’t have ever sat down in the first place. It’s not like he didn’t have anything to do; he needs to downshift the Crest’s power converters, switch off the shield projectors, chart a course to his next job, get some damn sleep if he’s lucky…

But you’re here before him. You’re here and he can’t deny you—not when you’re looking at him like that, like the sun shines out from his fucking face—far softer, far kinder than he deserves. Not when you’re here now, and you won’t be for much longer.

He’s racing against the clock—the swinging inevitability of it. Each moment he shares with you, is a moment that brings him closer to taking you back.

Din is a fool. He knows he’ll lose. He races anyways.

“It’s a water planet—mostly ocean,” he begins.

You allow your eyes to dip close, savoring the description, and you tuck your legs up to fold over themselves.

“But there are islands. Some are small, private—with red trees that go all the way to the sand. Others have whole cities on them.”

You remain quiet - patient - like marble, chiseled and sanded as thin as chiffon, veiling over your face in fine, cascading sheets. Transparent - ethereal - you listen to him blind, letting his words guide your sight.

“The kid-"

Your tongue darts out over your lip and he stutters. Din has to shift his hips, relieving the growing heat that’s tightening below his waist.

“T-The uh, the kid loved it. I’d never seen him like that. The bogwing didn’t want to leave,” he chuckles. He conjures the details he thinks you want—the details he thinks you might like most. “The people are honest—generous. The days are long, and the nights are warm.”

He’s no poet, but it doesn’t bother you.

“I can see it,” you say, before blinking your eyes open. "I'll have to go some time." There’s pink on your cheeks, seeping past your jaw and below the neckline of your shirt to the swallow of your breasts.

You look at him— he looks at you.

A noise hums from somewhere inside the ship.

“Are you scared of anything?” you murmur.

Mando lets a beat pass.

“I don’t think so. Not yet.” You smile at that—small, wistful. You’re not even sure why. “You?” he asks.

Your chest rises with a deep inhale. “I used to be scared of dying. I thought I was gonna die young. I was convinced—I had dreams about it all the time as a kid.”

But maybe that’s not it entirely. Maybe it’s not the fear of dying itself, but the dread of living and dying alone. And isn’t that at the heart of it—at all of this?

I just don’t want to do this all on my own.

He’s never been privy to this version of you—this sloping tone, the liquor buzzing through your speech, churning your words to treacle. You sound nonchalant in way that’s jarring, as if you aren’t talking about death— the fear of your own tenuous mortality.

“But I bet everyone does,” you continue dismissively, “just one of those things.”

He’s almost cautious when he replies. “I’m not sure they do.”

Your expression contorts, knotting for an agonizing moment—until the tension all but disappears. “Huh,” you shrug flippantly, and take a swig. That heaviness, that fog, dissipates nearly as soon as it arrived. “Anyways, favorite color?”

He rolls his eyes; you can see it in the way he tilts his head to you. Really, he seems to say, how old are we?

“You’re right, you’re right— that’s low brow. I can do better…” You melodramatically tap your chin, eyeing him pensively.

“Okay. What’s that?”

“What’s what?”

“That,” you nod to his pauldron, “that symbol on your shoulder.”

Tawny fingertips trace absentmindedly over the emblem. “It’s a Mudhorn. It’s-” Mando hesitates, before his hand returns to his lap. “It’s the sigil of my clan.”

You arch your brow. “I didn’t realize you had a clan— is it- is it like, big?” Stars, you sound dumb—and there’s no excuse. You’re not even that drunk. “How- what is a clan, exactly?”

“In Mandalorian culture, your clan is your family. Aliit. Mine, it’s—it’s a clan of two.”

Something in the pit of you stirs, a sickly warmth, pulling at your gut like a rope. You glance over to where the child sleeps, snuggled away in his pram and your lips curl into a smile, hidden behind the bottle you bring to them.

“You’re lucky to have each other,” you say gently, taking another sip.

“We almost didn’t—shouldn’t have.”

His hands tense into his legs—the creak of leather against his thigh plates is audible even from where you sit.

You narrow your eyes curiously. He heaves.

“He was a bounty and I did my job. I turned him in. I went back for him, but—the kid, he saved my life, and I could’ve left him there—I would’ve, before.”

It all comes out like tires grinding through gravel, bruised and roughened. It’s regret, you realize—this is the sound of guilt, frigid and rued, pushing through his modulator. It makes you want to reach out to him, put your hand on his, comfort him, reassure him—something. But you can’t. He’s too far away. He’s on his own sea—untouchable.

You decide it right then and there: you can’t bare that sound, the wracked timbre of it. You hate it. You think you’d do anything to rid the way in constricts his throat—makes him hoarse and clipped, even through the guise of his helmet. It pains you, a visceral stabbing, right to your core. You could go a lifetime without hearing it, and it still wouldn’t be long enough.

“But you didn’t,” you offer.

“No,” he utters. “No, I didn’t.”

Mando gives you these tortuous, beautiful previews of himself. Like light passing through stained glass, you sneak brief glimpses of the paintings there, the stories and fables and the lessons they teach, until some great cloud drifts past, blotting out the sun, and all goes dark again.

You know this is rare. You know you’ll be home soon. You know to cherish it—to relish what he gives, when he gives it, if he gives it at all.

But—you want more. You’re a simple woman, at the end of all things: all you want is to hold him.

“I think you’re a better man than you let on, Mando.” There’s a knowing twinkle in your eye, a coy lilt to your loosened tongue. If you didn’t know any better, you’d think you were flirting.

“You don’t know that,” he huffs, crossing his arms over his chest.

“I have my suspicions." You're smirking something awful - deadly - as it sears into him.

He grunts, flames licking up his chest. Din has to bite back his grin, making careful it doesn’t shape the sound of his vowels; grateful for the helmet that buffers him, the mask that seals him away into anonymity, into apathy.

If he can convince you, maybe he can convince himself too. Maybe.

“Next question, dala.”

If he didn’t know any better, he’d think you were flirting.

///

Your eyes are blown wide, gawking at him.

“I’m not a medic, Mando—I’m not a fucking surgeon!”

Mando crashes through the Razor Crest, red dollops trailing in pools behind him. He grunts, hand pressed to his side, blood pushing out of the gash that’s torn into him— a canyon down his unplated body, spewing angry and insistent with each spasm of his heart.

With a broad stroke, he sweeps the clutter off the table and onto the floor, spraying across the deck.

“Medkit,” he barks, hoisting himself up to lie, hulking and pained, out on the slab. You scamper to it, ripping it off the wall, and return to his lumbering body. His breathing is labored—he’s forcing it, seething it out.

Mando’s legs bend off the table at an uncomfortable angle and he rasps when you crane them up by his booted ankles – fuck, he’s heavy – to situate a small crate under his feet. They drop with a dulled thud— without muscle, without resistance. The languid weight of a dying man.

You’re stationed beside him, medkit spilled open. “W-What now, what do you need?”

“I need you,” you heard him say, deep and bassy, as he ascended the ramp. With a colossal drum of your heart, you spun around - I need you - a blush stippling your jaw. The pregnant expectation built behind weeks and weeks of stalemates and stolen glances - I need you - all rearing to a head here and now and finally, finally something—until you saw him, doubled over, bracing himself on the wall, a line of blood smearing behind his palm.

“Bacta-“ Mando wheezes, “bacta shot.”

You rifle through the supplies, littering them as you dig through the box.

Sure, you had gotten your first aid certification with the Movement—it was required, and you retook the courses every few cycles. But that was gauze wrappings and mouth-to-mouth and anti-inflammatory tablets—that was not this, and this is fucking surgery. You’re out of your depth—and Mando must be out of his damn mind.

“I nee-“ He inhales sharply, and his body spasms, gripping the ledge of the table like a vice. “My chest plate—take it off.”

He’s told you bits and parcels of the Mandalorian way—of his Creed— and you aren’t under the impression that this would be strictly sanctioned.

“M-Mando, I thought— are you sure?”

“Yes I’m kriffing sure—do it. Just do it,” he snaps. He hates this—he fucking hates this. Soft. Weak—weak weak weak, he’s so fucking weak. Laandur.

You fumble over the armor, uncoordinated as you unclasp it from his cuirass and Mando strangles out a sigh as soon as it leaves him. At last, you fish the shot from the medkit and hold it up to the light, the medicine like venom as it whirls in the tube. It’s uncomfortably large—simply holding it makes you squirm.

“W-What is that?”

Your eyes flit over the needle and then back to the bounty hunter. “What do you mean ‘what is that’? It’s a shot.”

“That’s a lance,” he growls.

“It’s ebacta-”

“It’s green!” he hisses out incredulously.

“It’s all they had!” you bite back, panic skipping through your veins.

You’re practically yelling at each other, the tension winding and coiling tighter and higher as the seconds tick by. You feel each one, tapping along your vertebra like a metronome, keeping time, keeping time, wasting time—all this back and forth is a waste of time and—

You’re nervous—you’re fucking terrified—and Mando doesn’t frequent this position either—this vulnerability. He doesn’t know what to do with it, where he belongs in it. I need you, he said. He hadn’t needed anyone before and now look at him, bare breasted before you, wounded and mewling like roadkill.

You rap the needle with a knuckle, banishing the air pocket, and test the plunger. Droplets of liquid spurt from the tip, and he begins to rile.

“Dala,” he warns.

“Mando,” you mimic.

“Nu draar-”

“Do you want my help or not?” you spit out, and he shrinks, visor trained on the jab, that unnatural chartreuse swirling inside the glass vial. “Okay. Okay, on three.”

“Wait, wait-"

“One..." You try to sound firm - competent - but you’re a fucking mess. Your breathing is erratic, tunic soiled with sweat, and you’re trembling.

“You don’t-“

“Two...”

Mando huffs exasperatedly, “Ah, fuck it-”

“Three.”

You drive the syringe down, stabbing into him. His body seizes—flexing rigid—as soon as the viscous gel is injected, oozing oozing oozing until it’s pumped empty and spent.

And then— nothing.

All that whirlwinded frenzy, that raging tempest, and now silence— dead silence. He lays there motionless, fidgeting ceased, that ungodly needle pitched like a flag pole from his chest.

… Shit.

“Hey,” you touch a hand to his shoulder.

The smug bastard could be having a laugh under that helmet and you’d have no idea. That’s what you tell yourself—that’s what you’d prefer to believe anyways; it’s better than the alternative, better than—than than than fuck—

“Hey, this isn’t funny...” A little rougher now, you jostle him. He doesn’t react.

“… Mando?”

His head lolls to the side.

With a whistle, the room goes mute. Sound and oxygen alike, it all gets vacuumed out, and your senses invert. You can hear every tick of your body: the bone of your jaw as your teeth mash together, the pulse at your wrist, your stammering heart beating beating beating in your inner ear, the bob of your trachea as it grates against your neck.

Kriff. You killed him—you killed the Mandalorian.

Oh Maker, oh shit-

You press down around the puncture site with a wide palm before yanking the syringe out, flinging it away. You’re shaking him now, wrestling with his limp body, and you’re shouting—croaked with worry, with fear.

“Fuck, Mando—Mando!"

The sound is like glass shattering.

He gasps wildly, gulping down air as if he’d been drowned, writhing like the undead from your operating table. You buckle over him, fatigued and slumped, and cry out in blessed relief.

Your instincts, those poor frail nerves, tell you to smack him—but given that he’s bleeding out, you refrain.

“Don’t do that to me!” you exclaim, breathy and strained.

“Don’t do that to you?” Mando retorts, panting. You let out a weak crackle of laughter and he moans. It’s like he’s been hit by a speeder - twice - forward and then reversed over again.

“Maker, what did you give to me?”

“I got it on Vohai. They uhm- they said it was good quality-“

“And you believed them?”

Your mouth twists shyly. “I-I wanted to believe them,” you correct him.

It’s his turn to laugh now, tired and raw. Oh, you sweet little thing.

You swallow, saliva coating your ragged windpipe. “I’m sorry—Maker, I’m so sorry, a-are you alright?”

“Yeah,” he scoffs, gargled, “but remind me never to have you save my life again.”

That earns him a light slap to his arm. If he’s well enough to dole cheap shots, you figure he’s fit enough to take yours too. He’s spliced open, whole chunks of him missing, and he still has the wherewithal to be an ass.

“Well, you’re not out of the woods just yet.”

///

Regrettably, Mando might have been spot on about the bacta—in fact, you’re starting to question whether it’s really bacta at all.

A delirious grunt ripples through the bounty hunter’s modulator as you cut open his ripped flight suit, careful not to slice him with the vibroblade. His black undershirt is matted to his gaping wound, the blood bubbled over and through the rough material, and you have to peel the fibers out of his coagulating flesh to get to it. You toss the fabric into the bucket next to you with a sloppy, wet plop.

It didn’t even occur to you. You were so swept away by the state of him—by the dizzying carnival of it all as soon as Mando breached the Crest—you didn’t consider the fact that you’d be seeing him. Touching him.

You have to mask your expression when you meet his skin for the first time. He’s golden—he’s golden everywhere—like desert sand dunes sizzling under ripe, afternoon suns—dappled with memories of violence, branded into him.

You’ve never heard him like this. He keeps noising these feverish little nothings— gasping, moaning in a language you don’t recognize—and you do your best to distract him. It’s one of the tenets you recall from your aid training: keep them talking, keep them sharp—engaged.

“Do each of these have a story?” you ask, eyeing the marks that riddle and pucker him.

“Some of them.”

“What about this one here?” You touch a faded ribbon of scarring. It’s older than the others—paler. Your fingertips are cool and he blazes beneath them.

He tries not to twitch. You try not to notice.

“Fell out of a tree when I was a kid—haven’t thought about that in a while,” Mando pants. “B-Broke my wrist, got scraped to shit— my buir, m-my mother, she chewed my ear off.”

“Mm, I bet she did,” you smirk—you can relate to the feeling.

“I-I remember the lines around her eyes. H-Her eyes— they were green, bright green— jade.”

He lets out a wince as you swipe a disinfectant soaked rag over him. You cringe and flash him an apologetic look.

“Sounds beautiful,” you muse, a quiet smile pulling at you as your deft fingers work. “Did you get her pretty eyes too, Mando?”

Something is caught in his throat— a chuckle, or a cough more likely. “No, they’re brown. Just brown.”

Your whole body locks.

Just brown.

Two words - just brown - and suddenly you’re rich— full to the brim with him.

And fuck, if it doesn't feels like a gift. Like he gathered something precious and laid it in your arms and said here, you can have this now. We can share. Sometimes you forget that there’s a man under all those layers; a man— a warm blooded, tanned skin, brown eyed man. You hadn’t often wondered what the Mandalorian was hiding under his armor—he was so finite, so unmovable, the mask he wore became him. He was beskar - indistinguishably - through and through.

But that was before. And now you’re blinded with him— with all the details you cannot unsee.

“S-She was the last person to take care of me—like this.”

It comes over you so suddenly, you’re taken aback by it: that knee-jerking gut wrench. And not because there’s heartbreak in his voice, but because there isn’t. Because he’s had to be so invulnerable—so unyielding and invincible for so long—that he doesn’t even realize what he’s without.

And you, if only for a silly, naïve moment, wish you could give it back to him. Every little ounce of goodness that he’s been deprived of—to dip into his time stream, and rewrite.

To plant but a seed of it there, even if you don’t stay long enough to see it’s harvest.

“Tell me more about her,” you say.

And beyond expectation, beyond reason, he does.

///|||///

This—this is wrong.

He feels pulpy - soggy - wrong. He’s more liquid than he should be—there’s nothing solid about him now. He’s swept away in the tide of it—this green current charging through him and he let’s go - what is there to hold onto anyways? - floating belly up on his back.

Din spills—like the aperture split into his side, he gushes. Whatever dam he’s forged around himself, the beskar and duracrete there, cracks.

The stream trickles until he floods and like any good story, he starts from the beginning.

He tells you of home—his first home. Aq Vetina.

You’re plucking spikes and nettle from his side, and he barely feels it—all he has is this sinking, unending wet—and they hit the tray with dull plunks, punctuated and staccatoed.

He tells you of the adobe dwellings and the domes and columns. Marketplace canopies and caravan bazaars.

plunk

The oak trees, the willow bark, the spires he’d climb until the sun set.

plunk

The tall mountains and the dry, rubbled earth. Of the nameless neighbor children he played with, kicking a ball through the dirt. Red robes trailing, fraying.

plunk

His mother. The shawl she wore. The copper of his father’s ring. The herbs she grew by the light from their kitchen window. How he held her hand while they sat by the fire.

plunk

His tongue doesn’t belong to him—it wags numb and supple. He’s lost his sense of direction, unbound by north or south, and these words are simply happening to him. They keep happening and happening and escaping and—

It’s not just the off-bacta speaking for him, making him pliant. He wants this. He wants to bend—he wants to bend for you.

And now there’s no stopping it—there’s no breaking this, no halting it's downhill momentum. Din describes the attack, the heat of the fire as his town - his world - burned down, of his parents concealing him—a child, abandoned and bunkered away in a cellar to live or die with or without them— being rescued by the Death Watch and raised as a Mandalorian himself.

Your bandaging has long since finished, but you remain, hovering over him as you listen—listen as the jigsawed shards of his life stitch themselves together. Like a moth to a flame, you are drawn in and in and in, until you’re butted against the wick of it. Inseparable.

When the well of his words runs dry, neither of you go to move. Pin-drop silence envelops you. Your hands still on his chest, palms like a weighted quilt—warming him, securing him. He feels-

He feels safe.

“Mando,” you murmur, and the epithet has never sounded so fucking sacred, whispered from you like a prayer. You cripple him; the web of concern along your brow, the sheen in your eyes, the breathy part of your lips.

His throat has gone dry and he shakes his head left right, beskar grating against the makeshift gurney. Mando. No. No, that’s not right—that’s not who he is, that’s not who he wants you to know.

He draws his hand up—it’s so fucking heavy, he can barely lift it—but he tries, he tries, he wants to. You’re right here, you’re touching his chest and you’re healing his body—his mind too, if he’d only let you—and if he could just get to you. If he could just lace his fingers with yours—would you let him? Should you?

“M-My name-"

A warbled wail from the kid’s alcove rips through the cradling hush, and you both react immediately, lurching up to tend to the child. Din forgets—he hears his foundling and his reason leaves him—and he flinches with a grimace. You urge him down, steadying him with a pointed look.

“Rest.”

It’s a command, there’s no question to it, and it’s teeming with all of these unrecognizable concepts— care and assurance, worry and compassion. So impossible to disobey in the way that gentle things are—too soft and too right to say no to. He relents - gives - helmet thudding when it connects back with the table.

Din, he pleads, desperate for you to read his mind. Like a mantra, his subconscious rambles it on a drug addled figure-eight, coming around only to repeat itself again, infinite and wanting. Din Din Din-

Only when the child’s cries muffle into hiccups and his hiccups slur into coos does he let his exhaustion get the better of him. There was too much—it was an assault from all fronts. The blood loss, the drugs, his life like a monsoon as it crushed him open. And all it took was a wound, a brush with his mortality, for him to surrender it to you.

He turns his head, searching for you through the blur of his vision. You’re there in the doorway, rocking his boy in your arms, haloed with light.

I need you, he said. I need you I need you I need you I need-

Din’s eyes shut.

He doesn’t dream. He sleeps like the dead, blissful and undisturbed.

///

You spend hours scrubbing the deck on all fours, spine hunched and aching, cleaning scarlet off silver steel. It got everywhere, the splatter of it—even on the surfaces Mando didn’t come in contact with. The smell of blood, that nickel musk, it lingers long after its welcome—long after the stain of it, the stain of him, has vanished from the Crest. From your skin.

At some point during the night you nod off next to him, curled over a crate, and when you wake Mando is gone—presumably back to his quarters but gone all the same. All traces of him gone - expunged - and the ship feels hollow and gaping— a sterile Mando shaped hole in his absence. You follow his lead, retreating to your bed for a few more hours of sleep.

The next morning doesn’t go as you’d like.

You weren’t sure if he would remember any of it—of what he confided, of what he almost confessed— but by the way the tension ferments between you, you can only assume he does.

They go through their routines, stilted as they are.

He’s up early— unnecessarily early. Mando goes to the cockpit to rouse the ship, plugging in the coordinates from his tracking fob to chase after the escaped bounty. Thrusters set. Repulorlifts and auxiliary engines engaged. Deflector shield generator on. Weapons check. Atmospheric pressure regulator switched.

He’s slower, you note— his movements are crawled—with only half the feline agility he typically possesses and you want to tell him to sit, to take a break—to get off his damn feet and to let you help him—that it’s okay if he rests. That he can take time for himself. That it doesn’t make him any less of a Mandalorian—any less of a man.

But, you can’t.

And so the day is pulled taut like this—a bowed string ready to snap, chalked full of false starts and tinny stoicism. A sharp, intentional air of avoidance with every action. They were out of step, out of sync, and it reminds you of the first days you’d spent on the Razor Crest, orbiting each other—planets apart.

Because he’s shared too much. You knocked, Din answered. He opened the door and he let you past and now he has nowhere left to go but inwards. He’s cornered with no exit strategy - no option - but to close back up again and furl in on himself like a fern in the dark. Curling - evaporating - until he’s nothing but armor—nothing but mirrored edges and metal plates.

But—

you still made his breakfast and he still washed your dishes—and maybe that is enough.

///

You pass each other in the corridor, as you have done before.

You smile gently—soft as sin— and it breaks him, like it always does.

You have a hand on the rung of the ladder when he calls your name, and you turn to him, bright eyed.

“Thank you,” he rasps, “I never thanked you.”

He’s so strikingly sincere— standing there, arms dangling stiff by his sides. He looks different now, somehow— different, but the same. Fuller, bigger—smaller, too.

Human, you realize.

Your heart flutters in your chest. “Of course, Mando-“

“Din.”

You forget to breath. Time forgets to move.

“My name is Din.”

///

Din. Din Djarin.

It takes you almost a week to say it—to even utter the syllable aloud—and you only ever risk it when he’s gone on a hunt and you know you’re alone.

“You like it when I touch you like this?” you hear him say, the fabricated echo of his voice in your skull. He’s got two fingers in you—you can envision them now, clear and potent, the golden hide of them—and he moves slow as he takes you right to the edge, dancing dastardly along that cliff side before retracting himself and backing off. You can’t see his face, but you know he’s smirking; you can feel it in his fingertips, how they mock you—how they scorch into you and leer.

Even in your fantasy, he’s a prick.

“You like it when I make you cum on this filthy fucking cot?”

You keen into your hand, whimpering into your bitten raw lips. The scene is playing on without you now, writing itself. All you can do is lay here and take it, succumb to it, starved and desperate and vile as you thrash on your bedroll.

You rove your palm over your chest—

He snakes up your shirt, twisting your nipple until it’s peaked and perked under him, until you yelp with that muddled jolt of pleasure and pain. He’s lazy and fitfully unhurried, each movement sauntered and proud. He’s coaxing it out of you, this orgasm, as he kneels over you, your vision flooded with the cold menace of his beskar. Finally, tortuously, he traces his thumb over your clit, toying with you in small circles until you’re shaking—vibrating, every molecule of you—like you’re going to burst, incinerate there in your bed. He’s urgent now, demanding, and thrusting into your swollen cunt and the pressure mounting in your heat swells until, until, oh my st-

You fuck your fingers until they prune, drenched with the thought of him teasing you, stuffing you full with anything he’ll give you; his hands, his cock—Maker, his tongue. You let it roll around your mouth when you touch yourself like this in the dark belly of the ship—heels digging into your thin mattress, knees steepled together—and you’re panting, wanton and velvet, before a fist shoots up to muffle the moaned name wafting from your lips like smoke.

“Din”

@girlimjusttryingtoreadfanfics @pedros-mustache @miranhas-art @djarrex @djarinsbeskar @bookloverfilmoholic @keeper0fthestars @misguidedandbeguiled

[silverflame2724]

A cute prompt for you to make up for the angst: Merman Au. In a world where humans and mer are acquainted communities (trade and navigation partners), Mer-WWX sees human prince Lan Zhan and tried to get his attention! Splashing to draw eyes, making acrobatic jumps to impress, wearing his best jiaro silks, leaving cute trinkets on his windowsill in the hopes that he will like them, and singing enchanting songs for his Prince, all hoping that Lan Zhan will sing back and court him (mermaids court with music and gifts so write a completely smitten WWX and go nuts!)

Oh thank you!! I absolutely adore merman/jiaoren!WWX!! And this prompt is so nice! I really appreciate you giving me such a happy prompt since my grandaunt died two days ago from Covid.

_______________________________

It was a complete coincidence that brought them together. Wei Wuxian swam to the surface, intent on exchanging the jiaoren goods for coin and food, when he noticed the bright decorations around town.

As he handed the stuff over, red tail swishing every now and then, he asked the vendor, “What’s going on? Is there a festival I don’t know about?”

“Ah, Young Master Wei! You’re just in time! The second prince is coming here!”

“Second Prince? Why is he coming here?” 

“It’s just a yearly inspection.”

What? Wei Wuxian hadn’t heard about this in all the years he’d been here!

“Why haven’t I heard about this before?”

“Ah....the Second Prince doesn’t like crowded places or making a big deal about his arrival, so he takes some sort of alternate route to come here. Though, this year, that route was flooded.”

“I see.....”

“Do you want to see him?” The vendor asked upon noticing Wei Wuxian’s thoughtful look. “He’s rumored to be a beautiful person, second only to his brother, the Emperor. We can get a few of my friends to carry a tub over so you can see him!”

“Oh! I couldn’t bother you all that way.” Wei Wuxian politely refused. “I have other errands to do, unfortunately.”

“Oh....”

The real reason he was thoughtful was because of his and his people’s prior horrible experience with royals. They had fled Lanling, where the king had captured many of his people for the pearls they cried in place of tears. Gusu had been reportedly better, its Emperor laying down a law that bans the harm of mythical creatures such as the jiaoren. But Wei Wuxian didn’t want to risk any sort of attention to his people after they had just escaped. 

Wei Wuxian waved goodbye and dove back under the water. When he arrived at his home after going through a series of underwater caves, he found out his parents knew of these yearly visits from the prince and that it was fine to wander around since the prince doesn’t usually stay for long.

Wei Wuxian nodded along and decided to do make sure to distribute the food and coin around his community. 

Before he knew it, the sun had set. Wei Wuxian returned to the surface, considering he wanted to have some spicy human food for dinner. After eating on the edge of the dock, tail partially in to keep himself from drying, he heard music from afar.

Curious as to the owner of such a beautiful sound, he submerges and follows the sound towards a more secluded area of the dock. There, dressed in shades of blue, was a young boy, seemingly around Wei Wuxian’s age, playing the guqin with nary an expression on his face.

Something itched within Wei Wuxian and he had the urge to tease the boy into making a new sort of expression. As quiet as a mouse, he snuck close to the boy and burst out of the water, shouting, “Boo!”

As he expected, the white-clothed human became startled and nearly jumped in shock. Wei Wuxian cackled until he came face with a sword. He held his hands up in surrender even as his heart beat fast.

“Who are you?” The boy demanded.

Wei Wuxian lifted his head from the sword to come face to face with the most beautiful boy he had ever seen. The boy in front of him had the most entrancing pair of golden eyes. The boy narrowed his eyes and repeated his question, though the sword at his neck faltered a little.

Wei Wuxian took the opportunity to swim a little farther from the boy and pouted. “Gege, I just wanted to surprise you! You looked so serious sitting by yourself! You should look happier on such a beautiful night such as this!” The boy didn’t change his expression. “Also! Isn’t it rude to point your sword at a stranger?” 

“You do not know who I am?”

He’s probably some noble considering not many people own swords, but him specifically? “Nope! Should I know who you are?” He’s probably new or something. I haven’t seen him around before and nobles don’t usually come around these parts. ....Hmm, perhaps he’s here to see the prince?

The boy seemed to relax a little and put away his sword. “.....I apologize for pointing my sword at you. I was....unsure if you meant ill.”

“Why would I voluntarily bring harm to a stranger?”

“...” The human turned away and turned to his guqin, checking for damage.

“Hey, hey! Beautiful human with gold eyes! Don’t ignore meeee! Look at me, look at me!!”

The human merely sighed in exasperation.

Wei Wuxian’s pout became more pronounced and his tail splashed in irritation. The human’s eyes went wide with curiosity and shock and Wei Wuxian realized his mistake. “..Uhh....”

“A jiaoren?”

“Yeah! Do you have a problem with that?” Wei Wuxian said, guarded.

“No. I have never seen one before.”

“I see.” 

The atmosphere became awkward with the ensuing silence but Wei Wuxian could never stay quiet for long.

“So what brings you around these parts? I’ve never seen you before!”

“......I came with the prince’s entourage.” There was something odd in his tone.

“I see. You know, I’ve never seen the prince before. Is he as beautiful as the rumors suggest?”

“Vanity is against the rules.”

“Whose rules?”

“The palace’s.”

“Hmph. Well, this isn’t the palace. it’s fine to say something, hm?”

“....Gossiping is against the rules. Talking behind someone’s back is forbidden.”

Wei Wuxian threw his hands up. “Well, if I can’t talk about the prince, then tell me about you! That’s not against the rules, isn’t it?”

“........”

“A name! At least tell me your name! Mine’s Wei Wuxian, but Gege can call me Wei Ying since we’re already so close!”

“Shameless!” The boy hissed, ears red. 

“Oh come on!! I told you my name, it’s only fair that you tell me yours! Don’t be rude, Gege!”

“.....Zhan.”

“Hm?”

“Lan Zhan.” He repeated.

“Lan Zhan?” Wei Wuxian murmured and Lan Zhan nodded. Hmm. It’s a birth name, not a courtesy name. Is he trying to hide his identity? He’s not doing a very good job though, considering ‘Lan’ is the name of the royal family. Perhaps he’s a relative of the prince’s? I wouldn’t expect a prince to be out here by himself without guards so he must be a guard or something. Hmm. It’s something to think about later. It doesn’t seem like he means harm even after knowing what I am. Regardless, it’s not like he could follow me back to my home even if he did mean ill. Humans can’t hold their breath for that long. “Well, Lan Zhan, now that we know each other’s names, you’re now my friend!”

“........We do not know each other.”

“That’s what we’re talking for, silly! We’re getting to know each other, right?”

“Hm.” Lan Zhan packed his guqin away. “I must go. It is late.”

“Late? We’ve hardly talked though! Don’t leave me here, Lan-gege!” Wei Wuxian whined.

“Not.....Not.....gege.”

“Hm?”

“I have an older brother.”

“Hm? Oh.....oh! Okay, I understand! Lan-er-gege!”

Lan Zhan looked away, gripping his sword. “I will come back tomorrow night.”

“Huh?” Then he connected the dots. “Oh! Okay! See you later, Er-gege!”

Lan Zhan nodded and left. It was only when he couldn’t see him anymore did Wei Wuxian realize he could have just asked where Lan Zhan lived. If it was close to the water, he could just swim to him. That might put him close to the prince and other people from the palace which wasn’t a very comforting thought. He still didn’t know whether to trust the Gusu royals, despite possibly conversing with one.

.......................

The next few nights passed by in a similar fashion, with Wei Wuxian trying to get Lan Zhan’s attention and Lan Zhan hardly giving the jiaoren an inch.

Wei Wuxian, however, saw this as a challenge and began to do many things to get Lan Zhan’s attention. The most effective one was splashing him, though it earned him a glare as well as Lan Zhan predicting it and being able to dodge more often than not.

He moved onto trying to impress Lan Zhan by performing difficult acrobatic tricks. Lan Zhan looked amazed at this and Wei Wuxian was extremely smug, quickly turning an embarrassed red when Lan Zhan praised him, with a, “Beautiful.”

Wei Wuxian wailed, hiding his face in his hands, “Lan-er-gege, you can’t just say that!”

“Why?”

“It’s too embarrassing!!”

“Wei Ying calls me beautiful all the time.” Lan Zhan deadpanned.

Wei Wuxian peeked at him from in between his fingers, “You’re enjoying this, aren’t you?” He demanded. “You can’t just tease me like this! Where did the Lan Zhan who got so easily flustered go?” 

Lan Zhan said nothing, but Wei Wuxian could see the faint upturn of his lips that made his overall expression smug.

And Wei Wuxian didn’t know why, but it made his heart beat faster/

.......

It escalated. Because of course it did. Wei Wuxian wanted to hear Lan Zhan praise him again and see that faint smile again - no matter if it was smug or not.

He wore his best jiaoxiao silks - ones he personally weaved -, danced, and....and even sang to him. Lan Zhan even joined him sometimes, playing on the guqin.

He returned every night, sighing into his parents’ embrace about his Lan Zhan and his parents shot him increasingly knowing looks until they laid down the truth. 

“You’re courting him, aren’t you, A’ Ying?” His father asked.

“C-Court?”

“Yes, A’ Ying.” His mother patiently said. “You wore the most beautiful jiaoxiao silks you weaved, danced a well-known courting dance, and even sang for him. If you aren’t courting him, if you aren’t in love with him, then I call bullshit.”

Wei Wuxian clutched his burning cheeks. “Courting?” Am I really courting Lan Zhan? I mean.....I like it when he praises me and calls me beautiful and plays his guqin for me and even plays an accompaniment when I sing!

......Oh god. Oh heavens! I really am courting him!!! How could I not notice???!!!! Ahhhh!!!!

.......................

The nature of Wei Ying’s gifts and music changed, Lan Wangji noted absently. 

When Lan Wangji first met Wei Ying, he was unsure of what to think but was quickly captivated by his smile and intelligence. It made Lan Wangji reluctant to return to the palace. Or maybe even bring Wei Ying with him.

He shook that thought away quickly. He couldn’t just take Wei Ying away from his family!

Back to the point, Lan Wangji noticed the shy looks Wei Ying shot him from time to time and how his songs gained a sort of.....longing tone. The gifts too......they were pearl bracelets and hairpins that had to be made from Wei Ying’s tears. Lan Wangji may be shy but he was not oblivious to what it meant to receive a jiaoren’s personally made songs and pearls. 

Perhaps.....Wei Ying might share his feelings after all?

That thought made his heart beat faster. If he remembered correctly, jiaoren court through songs. And Lan Wangji had the perfect one in mind.

.....................

Lan Zhan had to leave today. He had to leave!!

Wei Wuxian wanted to cry, somehow. He hadn’t finished courting Lan Zhan! 

Fortunately, Lan Zhan seemed reluctant to leave too. “I can ask my brother to send me here soon.”

“Really? Really, Lan Zhan?”

“Mn.”

Wei Wuxian’s tail propelled him out of the water and forward so that he could wrap Lan Zhan into a hug. “I knew you liked me! Oh! Uh-- I mean--!”

Lan Zhan’s arms came around him. “Mn. Like Wei Ying.”

Wei Wuxian squealed happily. Lan Zhan liked him back!! He pulled back to give Lan Zhan a bright smile which, surprisingly, was returned!!

Wei Wuxian’s tail swished happily, “Keep smiling, Lan-er-gege! It’s really pretty!!”

Lan Zhan huffed out a laugh and Wei Wuxian grinned. 

.

.

“Wei Ying, there is something I must tell you.”

“Hm? What is it?”

Lan Zhan hesitated and Wei Wuxian sat up, sensing it was serious. 

“What is it?”

“Wei Ying, I have not been entirely honest with you. My name is Lan Zhan....... courtesy name: Wangji.”

Wei Wuxian took a moment to let that sink in. Where had he heard that courtesy name before?

“Hey, Mom.” Wei Wuxian asked as they crossed the border between Lanling and Gusu. “The Gusu royals. Are they good people?”

His mother nodded. “I was acquainted with the current king’s uncle until we had a.....” She winces. “A fight. They are good people, regardless of our past differences. The current king, Lan Xichen, and his little brother, Lan Wangji, have implemented a law that ensures the safety of creatures like us.”

“Really?”

“Yeah.” 

“You’re the second prince?!” Wei Wuxian gasped, dramatically flopping into the water. The prince?! He was courting the actual prince of Gusu???!!!

“Mn.” Lan Zhan confirmed as soon as he surfaced, shoulders tense.

“Well, shit. I didn’t know, but it’s not like you’re going to punish me for my rather shameless behavior, right? I know humans have different customs for courting.”

“Mn.”

“Okay! Now that that’s out of the way, Lan Zhan - I can still call you Lan Zhan, right?” Lan Zhan nodded. “Then, Lan Zhan, now that I know you’re the prince, I know you must have a lot of business and I can’t push you to come here often. But do try to visit, okay? I’ll miss you a lot!”

“Mn. Will miss Wei Ying too.”

__________________________

Then, a few years down the line, the two of them get together because this is a happy universe and they know how to communicate!

[nad-zeta]

Mitsuhide- The Blind Date

Fandom: Ikesen

Pairings: Mitsuhide x Reader

Genre: Modern Au

Warning: Alcohol

Words: 1800+

Comments: Eeeeep, guess what time it is???? Whooop Whooop! //dances around ❤❤❤😳🥺🥺😳❤🌈 This week gonna be funnnnn!

.*:・’ﾟ:｡.*:ﾟ･’ﾟﾟ:。’ .*:・’ﾟ:｡.*:ﾟ･’ﾟﾟ:。’･ﾟ｡.*:・’ﾟ: ｡.*:・’ﾟ:｡.*:ﾟ･’ﾟﾟ

How in the high heavens did Mitsuhide allow this to happen. Had he truly lost his mind—gone entirely insane— or perhaps he had been drugged, yes, for there was no other logical explanation as to why on earth he would humour his friends so.

Sitting on the high stool at the bar, he checked his phone, 8:53— he would give her seven more minutes and then he was going to yeet out— that way, at least he could tell the other that he ‘tried’. After all, that was all he promised his friends— that he would show up—nothing more, nothing less.

Tracing his finger along the rim of the whiskey glass, Mitsuhide contemplated the events that transpired leading to this rather unfortunate present day.

All his friends were either dating or married—tragic really—and for some or other reason, they felt the need to pry into his personal life. “Don’t you want to share your life with someone,” the mother of the group started, which inevitably only caused the rest of the group to latch onto the idea and turn the once serious board meeting into a game of matchmaking. It certainly didn’t help that he agreed to a blind date willingly— well semi willingly, anything to get them off his back— adding a condition of his own, that the mouse would have to agree to it from her side without intervention from theirs.

He was confident she would refuse, from the words of friends, she certainly sounded like someone of likewise thinking— a fellow workaholic with no time for dating. But she — to his great surprise— accepted.

It made no sense to him. What made even less sense was why his friends thought the two would click, as personalities and hobbies certainly didn't seem to gell well— at least not in his mind.

Not that any of that mattered as time was ticking away, and she had one more minute to show up before he would call it a night.

A myriad of texts illuminated his phone, and Mitsuhide could only release a dejected sigh from the latest of messages plaguing the group chat. “Be nice and behave yourself,” the mother hen had said.

“Don’t do anything I wouldn’t,” came the instigation from Masamune, followed by an array of winking faces and smirk emojis. Now you can only imagine the chaos that unleashed upon the group chat with each member laying their own little egg and nugget of wisdom.

“M-Mitsu?” a soft unsure voice spoke up from beside him, tapping him gently on the shoulder.

Switching his phone off, he plastered a snek-like smile across his features before turning his sharp eyes onto the unfortunate little victim of his company.

“My, you must be the little mouse I’ve heard so much about," came the sly words from his mouth as he gestured for you to take a seat beside him.

With a slight smile shot his way, you took up residence on the tall barstool, “In the flesh,” came your cheeky voice as you shrugged off your jacket and placed both elbows on the table to rest your chin upon your hands.

“And you must be the detective?” you quipped back.

Mitsuhide smiled at that, eyes taking on a mischievous glint as he leaned in closer to drop his voice to a dangerous whisper, “of sorts,” he quickly looked behind him — to add to the suspicion— before returning his attention to you, “and you, my dear, have unfortunately been set up and caught in the foxes trap.”

He kept your gaze in all seriousness.

He was sure you had heard the rumours of his interrogation methods, being no secret at all in the little town you occupied, people, unfortunately, liked to gossip — and whether the rumours of his wicked ways of getting information out of suspects had been spread intentionally or not, people tend to move with caution around him. It was, unfortunately, the nature of his job, and as such, led him down this long lonely road.

You narrowed your eyes at the man, silence befalling the pair of you as you held his gaze before responding in an equally intimidating voice, “have you now, or is it you who has been caught in my trap.”

After another pause, you threw your head back in a burst of laughter without a care in the world. 'He seems fun,' you thought, shooting a wink in the direction of the bartender in thanks for the whiskey on the rocks. You picked up the crystal glass and swirled the liquid around before taking a long sip. It had been a long day, so much so that you almost wanted to stand the poor man up, yet you came anyway, if only for a stiff drink to ease the tension of the day.

“So, Mr fox detective, sir, what’s wrong with you that your friends felt the need to set you up on a blind date, and with me of all people! Do they hate you or something?" you asked, tilting your head to the side in curiosity.

In the dimly lit bar, you gave Mitsuhide a quick once over— he was handsome, in a dangerous, mysterious kind of way. He reminded you of a creature of myths— a kitsune— with his white hair and golden eyes accompanied by that razor-sharp smile. Perhaps that is why the rumours surrounding him were all so believable to the simpletons of the town who had nothing better to do than gossip— cause heaven forbid they do actual work for a change. Relatively speaking, you had not paid the gossip much mind. Instead, you were in the business of judging a book for yourself and not by what others rated it as.

“I could ask the same of you, little one?” he returned the question back to you, resting his chin on his hands.

“Well, to put it simply, my friends don’t know the difference between being alone and being lonely,” you said with a sigh, taking another sip of the drink in front of you.

Mitsuhide nodded in response, long fingers tracing over his glass thoughtfully with a hum of acknowledgement as you continued. “I knew if I refused to come tonight, they would just pester me until I agreed, so, in the name of some peace and quiet, here I am,” you ended off with a laugh and shake of the head.

Perhaps that was not entirely true; sometimes, you wondered what it would be like to find love— to have company to attend the various friend’s weddings with— after all, you were forever the bridesmaid and never the bride.

On the other hand, he knew the struggles of meddling friends all too well, and of course, the endless headache that accompanied the refusal of their ‘help’. He lifted his glass towards you, features softening as eyes crinkled at the seams in a semi genuine smile, “to meddlesome friends.”

You smiled brightly at that, clinking your glass with his as a comfortable silence befell the two of you—it looks like you had more in common than just your workaholic ways.

After a couple of minutes had passed, both your phones lit up at the same time, with an array of nosy friends asking about the ongoing date. And the two of you couldn’t help but burst into laughter and shake your heads in unison, “Unbelievable,” you spoke, taking another sip, an idea forming in your head to get them off your case for a little while longer.

Mitsuhide raised a curious brow at you as you silently lifted your phone, scrolling between the apps before landing on the camera. You shot him a mischievous smile before throwing your arm around his shoulder to pull him closer to you, “What do you think they would say if we sent a selfie,” you said, looking into the camera smiling brightly as finger spammed the little circle capturing a dozen or so photos before Mitsuhide even had time to rebuff. You never did mind creating a bit of chaos, and what better way to do so than, god forbid, you actually hit it off with the man.

“I wonder,” was all he said with a sly smile, and to your surprise, Mitsuhide actually smiled in a handful of the ones captured.

You quickly edited the picture, posting it onto the group with a cheeky caption; however, before locking your phone once more, something in the image caught your attention—a little sticker on Mitsuhide’s trench coat lapel. Your brows furrowed as you zoomed in to inspect it before they lifted to the man beside you, to see it in person. With a curious smile and finger pointed out to the little fox sticker, you couldn’t help but ask, “What’s with the little fox?”

“It’s a long story, my dear,” he said with an air of mystery, but you persisted, leaning closer to get a better look.

“Well, I have time,” the words fell from your mouth, followed by another round of drinks ordered.

“You truly wish to know, little one?” he replied with glowing eyes. And that was the beginning of the end.

The origin story of the fox sticker led to another, that, then led to another and then another. Until a fun game started between the two of you— a story for a story— each new tale accompanied by a new round of drinks ordered.

It was now your turn to tell yet another exciting story, this time about your childhood of all things, however, time had quickly slipped away, and before you knew it, your eyelids started to grow heavy with sleep, words coming out slower and slower until finally your head fell and landed on Mistuhised shoulder.

“My, my little one, you should not let your guard down so easily with a man like me,” the tender words were spoken; it was one of those rare occasions Mitsihide dropped his foxlike mask and wore a genuine smile.

He looked over to see you sound asleep, and it seemed that his fingers moved to their own accord, reaching up to twirl a strand of your hair between his fingertips. After a moment or two, he shrugged off his trench coat and draped it over your shoulders to keep you warm and protected from the cold night’s chill.

“Come along, little mouse; I believe it is time for sleepy mice to go to bed.”

He then proceeded to gently hook his arm around your legs and waist, picking you up bridal style and cradling you to his chest.

“You truly are a troublesome little one, whatever shall I do with you,” he spoke fondly as he carefully loaded you into the passenger seat of his car before securing the seatbelt around you, while you, completely unstirred, remained fast asleep.

You awoke the next day in your own bed, splitting headache nagging at your temples as unfocused gaze locked onto a glass of water and aspirin left by your bedside. Sitting up, you wasted no time taking the hangover cure, memories of the previous night flooding your head.

“Shit shit shit shit,” you curse under your breath, throwing yourself back and covering your head with a pillow— how very uncool of you to just pass out in front of a stranger like that, never mind how unsafe.

Your phone buzzed on the bedside table beside you, cutting your groans of embarrassment and cringe short, replacing it instead with a broad smile upon reading the text from your mysterious date.

[themurphyzone]

PatB Oneshot: Heartbeat

Based on @wimsiecal‘s wonderful Brain Meets Brawn AU...I might have a thing. for monsters...it’s bad...

There are some ideas from @thecutiewhoyaksandsnacks here too, namely Brain holding Pinky’s wrist for his heartbeat. 

Summary: Brain Meets Brawn AU where Pinky drinks Dr. Jekyll’s potion. 

AO3 Link

London was such a fun playground! 

The horse-drawn carriages, the chimney sweepers, the marketplace! 

And there was the lovely silhouette of Big Ben in the distance! Vaguely, he heard a voice call that he was going in the wrong direction, that he was supposed to hold the giant doohickey, that he was supposed to stop dilly-dallying and pay attention-

But why would he wanna do any of that? It all sounded so boring! He just wanted to play!

Bounding into the street on all fours, he took in the gray skies, coughing as a nearby factory spewed smoke from its stacks. No wonder the people all seemed drab and lifeless if all they had were gray skies and smoke. 

They needed some fun fun silly-willy in their lives! 

There was a man with long, funny sideburns walking arm-in-arm with a woman in a big, poofy dress! They were such a lovely couple, and they’d be perfect to play house with! 

He bounded up to the couple, tail wagging in excitement at the very thought of having new playmates. 

“Hellooooooo!” he said, and his voice was a lot hoarser than he thought. It was a lot harder to get the words out of his throat too. “Wannaaaaa plaaay?”  

The woman screamed, and the man threw his arm in front of her. 

Oh, did they want to scream instead? Okay, that was fun too! 

He screamed right back. 

The couple fled across the bridge, towards the other side of London over the Thames, shouting for a constable. Why did they want a constable? Unless...oh, the fashion police probably wanted him cause he wasn’t wearing anything except green fur. 

He could’ve sworn his fur was a different color before this, but he couldn’t quite remember. Oh well! What’s the point in worrying over something like that? 

The voice called again, harsh and scolding in that why-aren’t-you-doing-as-you’re-told sort of way. Too many big words. He didn’t want to hear big words. He only wanted to have fun! 

Further down the road, a horse-drawn carriage rattled down the uneven pavement. The horses moved in sync, their hooves clip-clopping against stone. They were both large brown horses with white stripes on their foreheads, a short man with a pinched face driving them towards the bridge.

Horses were lovely, friendly animals. They’d play with him!  

Clapping his hands with glee, he ran after them, nearly bowling over a group of children in his haste. They immediately scattered, yelling something about green monsters. 

Once he asked the horses to play, maybe he could find that group of children again. He’d never heard of the green monster game before, but he definitely wanted to try it out! 

The pathway was narrow, so he climbed on top of the stone archway that formed the sides of the bridge and switched to all fours. The horses trotted along at a steady pace, and he quickly overtook them, dropping in front of the carriage just as they reached the other side of the bridge. 

He crouched down with his tail wagging, but before he could ask if they wanted to play, the horses reared up and batted the air with their front hooves. The short man screamed as he flicked the reins in an attempt to get the horses under control, but the horses shot forward instead, nearly tipping the carriage on its side. 

He barely leapt out of their way in time, and the horses dragged the carriage past him and through the streets, ignoring the coachman’s shouts for them to slow down.

They didn’t want to play either. 

Nobody did. 

A raw, unfamiliar feeling settled into his stomach. It bubbled up to his chest, his entire body trembling. He didn’t like it. This wasn’t fun. 

Why didn’t anyone want to play with him? 

He screamed, sending an entire crowd scurrying for cover.  

“That’s him! That’s the monster, constable!” a woman yelled before fainting in her husband’s arms. It was the couple who’d fled from him earlier. 

A tall young man in a blue uniform broke free of the crowd, his arm quivering as he raised his billy club. His face was pale as he slowly approached. But he didn’t seem bad. Just looked like he needed to sit down for a bit.

He stretched one long arm and pushed the constable down. The constable’s eyes widened with terror, and he yelped as his bottom hit the pavement hard. 

He hadn’t meant to push the guy down with that much force.  

The crowd shuffled back, their whispers loud and accusing. Many watched him with fear in their eyes. 

He whimpered and carefully held out his clawed fingers to see if the man was hurt. This wasn’t what he wanted. He just wanted someone to play with. 

Before he could touch the man’s shoulder, he heard heavy boots thunder against stone. The constable beside him suddenly shot up, nearly knocking himself in the head with his own club. A red-faced man with an equally red mustache stormed across the bridge. His blue uniform was crisp with hardly a wrinkle. 

He squeezed something small and white in one gloved hand while gripping his billy club with the other hand. 

“OI, GET OFF YOUR LAZY BUM AND DEAL WITH THAT CREATURE ALREADY, HENRY!” the newcomer bellowed. Henry fumbled for his club while trying to stand. As he scolded poor Henry, he lost his grip on the small white thing, who tumbled to the ground in a heap. 

It wasn’t a thing. No, it was a very familiar mouse. 

“Pinky?” he murmured, rubbing his large head as he sat up. 

Though just a tiny voice, the fog in his mind began to clear, and he remembered things like tomorrow nights and worlds and clocks. And with all that was a name. 

His name. 

And another too, one that belonged to his best friend in the whole world. 

“Buh-raaaaaain?” Pinky said, and it was hard to get the word out when it should’ve flowed off his tongue like butter. 

And there was another word too, one that brought him much joy. 

“Naaaaaarrrrf,” Pinky warbled, and it was finally a word that came easy to him. It was simple and right, like a lost friend he was just reconnecting with after being apart for so long. 

Brain sighed, and Pinky giggled at his funny scowl. “Of course you’d retain your nonsensical vocabulary.” 

How he could sound disappointed and relieved at the same time, Pinky didn’t know. But he was here, and that was all that mattered in the end. 

Pinky gently pressed the side of his finger against Brain’s cheek. Even one finger was much bigger than Brain. He was just so itty-bitty, like the spider who climbed up the waterspout! 

Brain’s face turned tomato-red. “Not in public, Pinky!” he hissed, trying to shove Pinky’s finger away from his face, though he was too small to accomplish that. He stumbled with that particular action, wincing as his hand flew to a spot just above his left hip. 

Though Pinky didn’t see why he couldn’t show affection, he removed his finger from Brain’s cheek. Brain quickly glanced at the crowd, but they were much too focused on how the mustached constable was berating the younger one for not doing his job properly. 

The younger constable had gone paler, if that was even possible. 

Brain flicked his finger. Pinky laid his head on the pavement, turning a large ear toward the smaller mouse.

“I would’ve caught up sooner, but that brutish oaf of a constable captured me,” Brain said, gripping the outer edge of Pinky’s ear as he spoke. “He knows we’re...associates, and unsuccessfully tried to interrogate me for any information I knew about you. I, of course, gave nothing away about my plans for Big Ben. Speaking of which, we’ve been delayed for too long. No more...ow, no more distractions, Pinky.” 

There was a tiny hitch in Brain’s voice. The one that always appeared if he was hurt and trying to hide it so he could move on with a plan. 

Pinky stood up so quickly that Brain was left dangling from his ear, feet kicking out in an attempt to find solid ground. Carefully, Pinky brought one hand up to his ear, securing Brain in the palm of his hand before bringing up to eye level. 

“Enough, Pinky. Let’s depart before-what in Ptolemy’s name are you doing?” Brain protested as Pinky gently pushed him down, using his free hand to check Brain over injuries. 

He rolled Brain onto his side. He winced even though Pinky used the lightest of taps above his left hip. 

There was a purple bruise, visible against the white fur. 

Hurt. Brain was hurt. 

Fog clouded his mind once again, and this time, it was red. The city was blanketed in a crimson haze. 

Part of him feared it. It was unlike anything he’d ever felt before, this deep urge to hurt and maim and kill.

It was wrong. It was evil. 

But the urges only grew stronger. 

Hurt Brain. Make man pay. Make man suffer!

He growled and doubled over, and he felt something slip out of his hand. Something important, but he didn’t remember what. 

There were scary noises coming from his throat, loud and ominous and terrifying. 

“He’s dangerous!” 

“Kill him!” 

“No! Can’t you idiots understand you’re only agitating him?” 

That last voice was the loudest and clearest of all, though it was quickly lost in the cacophony.

Something struck his back multiple times. 

“Why isn’t this working?”  the constable screeched. The billy club thumped against thick, green fur. But the blow didn’t hurt at all. His fur was too thick. 

“S-sir, m-maybe the little big-headed guy is right?” Henry stammered. “Wh-what if you make him mad?” 

But the older constable didn’t listen, though he gave up trying to break through the thick fur. His sharp gaze fixated on a small, white-furred mouse. 

“Sympathizer,” he snarled, as the mouse hurled long, big-worded insults at the crowd. He didn’t notice the constable’s heavy footsteps, the raised club, the shadow falling across him-

Hurt Brain! Make man pay! Make man suffer! 

The mantra once again encompassed his mind, his hand striking the pavement behind Brain just in time to block the club with his wrist. Brain leapt back at the noise, clutching his zigzagged tail close to his body to protect it.

His bare wrist throbbed, unprotected by thick fur. 

But he didn’t care. 

Hurt Brain! Make man pay! Make man suffer!

He roared, and the constable’s mouth opened in a soundless scream as he dropped his club. Drawing himself up to full height, he towered over the man and snatched him up by the waist. His hand wrapped around the man’s chest, claws digging into his uniform. 

The man whimpered, frozen to the spot as he stared right into sharp, long fangs.

You hurt Brain! You hurt friend! 

He snarled, claws tightening, pricking the man’s skin. Just a little more...sink the tips in…

The man begged for mercy.

Oh, now he’d beg when it was his own life on the line? He didn’t deserve mercy at all. 

He squeezed. The man’s eyes bugged out of his head, his limbs stiff and useless. 

Stop this! A voice inside pleaded. This isn’t right! 

Shut up! he snarled, and the man made a pathetic, muffled noise. 

He wouldn’t be weak ever again. From this point on, he’d be strong enough to protect Brain from the humans. 

In the corner of his eye, someone moved. He snarled in their direction, warning them to stay back or else. 

The movement stopped. But he was still being watched. 

Irritated, he turned to whoever dared to interrupt. 

And he saw loose, drooping ears. Unsure hands caught between reaching out and protecting a soft, vulnerable body.  

A pair of rose-pink eyes that were round and wide with fear, shining with a sadness from deep within. 

Pinky? A trembling mouth whispered. Nobody else heard.  

The red haze tainting his vision lifted. Within his claws, the man choked for breath. 

Pinky dropped him. 

The man crumpled to the ground, and the crowd fearfully watched Pinky. Henry dragged the man away, several people breaking off the staredown to check the man over for injuries. 

He...he just wanted him to stop hurting Brain. He didn’t mean to almost kill the man!

He tried to apologize, tried to say sorry, but it wouldn’t come out. Why wouldn’t it come out? 

Why was it so hard to say anything?    

Only one thing came to mind. 

He ran. 

All he did was hurt everyone. All he did was hurt Brain. 

o-o-o-o-o

Pinky ran until he was completely out of breath. Maybe it was a cowardly move, maybe he should’ve owned up, but some instinct told him to flee before he was attacked with fire and pitchforks. 

He took all the twists and turns he could, trying not to think about anyone he nearly bowled over in his path. 

What’s one more person? some dark part of him chuckled. 

A howl tore from Pinky’s throat, the only protest he could make from that bad, evil voice. He didn’t want anything to do with it ever again. 

He came across an empty alley, surrounded by tall buildings that blotted out what little natural light trickled into the depths of the city. He could crawl into the darkness and never hurt anyone else. 

It was perfect.  

He collapsed on his stomach, too exhausted to move to the farthest spot in the alley. Then he tucked all his limbs in so he wouldn’t hurt anybody. As he curled his tail around himself, he felt something odd on the tip. 

Did he catch it on something? 

He turned to look, finding Brain balancing on the crook of his elbow, clutching the tip of Pinky’s tail against his chest. They stared at each other for a long moment, Pinky’s tail sliding out of Brain’s grip. 

“Buh-raaaaaaain?” Pinky asked. His words just weren’t coming out right. 

“I grabbed your tail when you fled,” Brain explained, awkwardly shuffling his feet against Pinky’s fur. He winced and rubbed his left side, where the constable had bruised him. “Um, how’s your...condition?” 

“Hurrrrrrts,” Pinky whimpered. It hurt to even force that out. 

Worry flashed in Brain’s eyes, and he patted the thick fur on Pinky’s arm. Pinky couldn’t feel the soothing motion at all. “Pinky, you don’t have to worry about it. Nobody’s dead, so-” 

But they were still hurt because of him!

Pinky couldn’t tell Brain that. It was too long and he could barely say single words. 

He wanted to thrash around, to take it out on everything he could reach, but he dug his claws into the ground underneath himself instead, letting the asphalt take the brunt of the scary anger that overtook him. 

The feeling soon passed. 

Brain’s ears drooped. “That was foolish of me,” he mumbled, not meeting Pinky’s eyes. 

And there was silence. Pinky cried, too afraid to move. What if he hurt Brain? He didn’t bother wiping the tears away. Brain made some odd sounds, like he wanted to speak words of comfort but couldn’t. 

Then he settled for pondering quietly to himself. 

“Show me your injured wrist, Pinky,” Brain said, in a tone that left no room for argument. 

Obediently, Pinky stretched out his arm.   

Through the tears that fell fast and free, Pinky watched Brain crawl down his arm and into his palm. Sitting there like he wasn’t surrounded by claws that could hurt him. 

Brain carefully pushed on the bare skin, watching Pinky as he did so. Truth be told, it didn’t hurt much. Then Brain pressed two fingers on a spot below Pinky’s thumb. 

“Strong beat,” Brain murmured, like he was trying to assure himself along with Pinky. “Means your heart’s good. That you’re here. With me.” 

Brain looked up, and he was crying too. 

Brain truly thought so? After all Pinky did? 

“Heart’s...good?” Pinky repeated, carefully rubbing Brain’s damp cheek with his thumb.  

“In a purely anatomical sense, of course,” Brain coughed. “And what’s more, I...I shouldn’t have put you through this.” 

Brain pushed Pinky’s thumb away and slid off his hand, turning his back to Pinky, afraid to let him see his face. 

“...I’m sorry.” 

With those two simple words, an entire burden lifted off Pinky’s shoulders. Easier to move and breathe and talk. No more worrying about claws and hurting someone with a strength nobody should have. 

Snowy white fur replaced green. No more claws and fangs. A size where he could properly wrap Brain in a hug and tell him everything would be okay. 

Shedding the last of his extra height and muscle, Pinky walked up to Brain, resting his jaw against the top of Brain’s head like he’d done so many times before.

“Poit,” Pinky whispered, wrapping his arms around Brain. He was careful to avoid the bruise. “It’s okay, Brain.” 

Gently, Pinky took Brain’s wrist in his hand. There was a sharp intake of breath from Brain, like he couldn’t believe Pinky was at a normal mouse’s height now. Pinky felt the skin just below Brain’s thumb, resting his fingers just over Brain’s pulse. 

It was a strong, steady heartbeat. 

“Good heart. And you’re here with me too,” Pinky said. 

“...I’ll concoct an antidote when we get back to the lab,” Brain whispered. For once, he didn’t shove Pinky off. Instead, he turned around and nuzzled into Pinky’s chest, clutching his fur tightly like he was afraid Pinky would leave if he let go. 

In the distance, Big Ben chimed four.