#the shoes the tie the well fitted suit the hair the everything

[soleilapproves]

Nanami Kento is the type of man to lose his mind if he sees your ankles. In other words, Nanami goes crazy whenever he sees a sliver of your skin.

Notes: pre-relationship, Nanami has a HUGE crush on you and is embarrassed about thirsting over you.

main masterlist

Prim and proper. Two adjectives that described Nanami Kento to the T. The man never came to teach with a hair out of place- everything was held back with the right amount of gel. His tie didn’t move unless it was to be removed for a fight and his suits always fit him just right.

He was a man of consistency and neatness. However, that side of him would only keep up until you were in sight. You with your radiant smile and boisterous laughter that had him turning around and shoving his face into the nearest wall out of pure admiration.

Nanami hated losing his stoic facade in front of you. It was like you turned him into a teenager who had hit puberty and began seeing girls in a new light.

It was just another day at Jujutsu Tech. The teachers were having a meeting in the staff room. Well, it was more of tea time while gossiping about the students. Nanami, as usual, didn’t indulge in the conversation and chose to listen instead.

You however, were not afraid to give in your two cents about Yuuji’s atrocious new shoes.

“It was so funny, he looked like a clown!” Gojo laughed out from the other end of the table. You could feel Nanami rolling his eyes from beside you but you still had a feeling that deep down side, he agreed with Gojo as well.

Gojo pulled out his phone to show you a funny picture of the student and you leaned over the table to see it, making your already tight blouse, ride up.

‘I’m a gentleman.’ Nanami told himself while staring at the translucent brown liquid in his cup. But then again, your ass was right next to him, and you were wearing the pants he liked too. It would be a missed opportunity to not look, especially when you were so up close and personal.

He looked. There it was, your beautiful skin, he couldn’t see much but he could swear it was probably one of the most beautiful things he had seen all week (aside from your face).

He gripped his cup tightly as he imagined himself stroking the soft skin of your back. He averted his gaze when you went to sit back down. However, he didn’t stare at you discretely enough because he had managed to make eye contact with a smug Gojo. The word gentleman did have the word man in it.

Another instance where he almost lost his cool while looking at you was when you both were assigned to fight a curse that had razors for fingers. It was too dangerous for the students to tag along.

You tried your best to dodge the blasted creature but managed to barely get by as one its blades grazed your torso, cutting your shirt in half. This angered Nanami and he quickly finished the curse via his classic 7:3 technique. He turned to look at you hunched over, examining your fresh new wound- a giant paper cut going from between your chest to your belly button. The cut wasn’t deep but it was painful.

Nanami’s blush deepened after reaching towards you. He could see your bra and he felt horrible at that moment. There you were, groaning in pain while he wondered if you’d sound the same under him.

The worst incident in his opinion was when you had invited him over to help you build your bookshelf and you opened the door wearing thigh high socks and shorts. Didn’t you know not to mess with a man’s heart?

Every time, you’d walk by him, he’d try to sneak a peak at your plush thighs. It happened so often that he accidentally hammered his thumb. “Kento!” You rushed towards him and sat down on your calves, taking his hand in your lap.

“This looks painful. Let’s get you some ice before it begins to bruise.” You lightly tug Nanami’s forearms but his eyes are too focused on your expanded thighs, begging to be let out of the confines of your socks. “Kento?” The man was shook out of his trance when you looked up at him with concerned eyes.

Fuck, he couldn’t do this anymore.

“What?”

“Ice? Your thumb is starting to bruise, come on.”

The man silently followed you to your kitchen while you set up an ice pack for him. His eyes tracked along your figure, especially the way your thighs chaffed against one another. Even though he had an ice pack in his hand, his skin felt like it was burning because of the proximity between you two.

You were cooing at the wound, regretting that you made him do all that work just to get hurt.

“I’m so sorry, Kento. Is there anything I can do to make up for it?” you apologetically asked. There you went again, shooting arrows at his heart with every word.

“Let me squeeze your thighs.”

“Huh?”

“Huh.”

“What?”

“What.”

—

I don’t know how to end this. Sue me.

[whimsyfinny]

Pairing: Dean Winchester x Reader

Summary: Charlie discovers the Winchester boys to be struggling with keeping the bunker tidy, looking after themselves and being able to do their job simultaneously. Luckily she has a friend who’s from a Hunter family that is in need of work and can help them with research. Or so she thought that’s what her job would be. When Dean sees your more domesticated side, his head won’t stop swimming with all the wrong ideas.

Slow burn, enemies to lovers, smut

Warnings: SMUT, the forbidden quickie

Chapter Word Count: 3548

—-MDNI—-

A/N: ahhhhhhhh I finally wrote some spice! Sorry it took a while. This is a little tame I guess but we can work up to the extra lewd stuff

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Please read the below first:

Prologue

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

I’m Not Your F*cking Maid

Chapter 6

The following day rolled around quickly and before we knew it there was only an hour remaining until the auction house charity event. The disturbing events of yesterday were pushed to the back of my mind, the boys respecting my wishes on not wanting to talk about it. Sam told us over breakfast that he’d managed to access the auction house database and add our names to the guest list for the party, making it easy for us to attend without getting caught out as uninvited visitors. Now back in my room, I was rummaging through my duffel and pulling out my evening attire: a long black dress made of soft satin that had a slit up to the hip on one side. The neckline was a deep v-plunge and the dress was entirely backless.

“I guess no bra for me tonight then,” I mumbled to myself, also pulling out a clean pair of black lace panties and a pair of closed toe, VERY high black satin heels that had a neat little buckle on the ankle strap. I was already showered and my makeup was already done so I dropped my towel and slipped into the dress, pulling the thin straps over my shoulders. I followed by pulling on my panties, stretching the lace over my hips so it wasn’t visible through the slit in the dress. If you didn’t know any better, it would look like I wasn’t wearing anything at all. I sat on the edge of the bed and put on the heels, securing them in place before standing up and doing a few practice laps of the room - wearing shoes this high was not a common occurrence for me. I finished up by dusting my skin with the same perfume I wore yesterday, breathing in the pleasant smell before tucking the bottle along with my rouge lipstick into my little black clutch. I fussed over myself in the mirror for a few minutes when I heard a knock at the door. Pacing over I flung it open to greet the Winchester boys, and when I did I couldn’t help but do a double take over the oldest brother. I hated to admit it but he looked good. REALLY good. He was dressed head to toe in black: a slim fitted suit, shirt and tie, all of which seemed to flick something on in my brain. His suit jacket hung open and beneath it the shirt was clinging to his well defined torso, the top two buttons straining a little.

“You scrub up well, Dean,” I said to him, trying to sound pleasantly surprised. Instead, I think I sounded incredibly flirtatious. Dean didn’t seem to notice though as I watched his jaw slacken and his eyes flit over my body.

“Uhhh-um yeah, thanks,” he said, clearing his throat a little as he stepped aside to let me out.

“You look great, (Y/n),” Sam said, making such intense eye contact with me like he didn’t know where else to look, his cheeks glowing a little.

“Thanks Sam,” I smiled up at him before locking the motel room door and trying to ignore the fact that Dean didn’t say anything. Back to being an ass I see.

“So (Y/n), you’re with Dean. It should be pretty simple: get in, get the hair pain, get out. With that many people at the event, we don’t want to risk anyone getting hurt so I'll be ready and waiting outside with everything we need to destroy it and put the ghost to rest,” Sam briefed us before carrying on, “I’ll head back to our room to get everything and I’ll meet you there - you guys get going,” he nodded his head to Deans car which was parked out front. Dean said a quick farewell and headed out and I did the same, giving Sam a wave as he turned to leave.

I climbed into the front of the Impala, running my hands over the plush leather seat.

“You really do have great taste in cars Dean,” I said, looking around at the immaculate interior. He hummed in agreement, putting his arm over the back of my seat as he reversed out of the parking spot. Those top two buttons on his shirt were not going to last all night. I crossed my legs, getting comfortable for the short journey into town - the satin of my dress falling open and completely exposing my thigh to Dean. I watched him take his eyes off the road and fixate on my bare skin, his knuckles turning white as he gripped the steering wheel. Returning his eyes to the road I saw his chest rise as he took a deep breath, a small but deep groan emitting from his chest.

“You ok?” I asked, quirking an eyebrow.

“I’m fine,” he rasped.

“Ok… you’re acting strange though,” I said, leaning on the passenger side door to watch the street lamps turn on.

“Can you blame me?”

“What?”

“Nothing.”

There was a few seconds of silence before he flicked on his cassette player and classic rock filled the car, bringing a smile to my ruby lips.

“Good taste in music too? I’ll be damned, you’ve got more of a personality than I thought.”

He scoffed a little before smirking, “there’s more to me than meets the eye sweetheart.” He looked over at me, green eyes piercing into mine with such intensity I suddenly felt a little warm. I looked away, quickly counting my lucky stars when I noticed we’d arrived.

Dean parked up and I reached for the door, however Dean stopped me from opening it.

“Wait,” his tone was authoritative as he reached a hand out to stop me, his rough fingers lightly grazing the soft skin of my thigh. Before I could even respond, he’d hopped out, slamming his door shut before striding around the front of the car to open mine for me. He held his hand out, which I grasped delicately and he pulled me to my feet.

“What was that for?” I asked, puzzled as he closed the passenger side door behind me.

“Just trying to keep up appearances for this shit-show,” he stated bluntly before he walked off ahead of me towards the front door whilst he left me to navigate the uneven cobbles in these death-trap shoes.

“Jerk,” I muttered under my breath, but he must’ve heard me because he turned around, sighed and held out his arm for me to take.

“Just ask if you need help,” he leaned in and said quietly, his face close enough that I could feel his breath on my skin. I sucked in a breath, which was a mistake as he smelt positively divine. He was filling my senses and I didn’t want him to.

We made it into the building with no trouble at all thanks to Sam’s hard work. The inside of the auction house was a grand spectacle indeed; with high ceilings, a chandelier made up of thousands of tiny pieces of crystal and two symmetrical mahogany staircases at the end of the entrance hall. It was busy, lots of people in expensive attire milling about and drinking equally expensive sparkly wine.

“Shall we get some champagne?” I turned and asked Dean, who chuckled slightly.

“You’re already more fun than Sam,” he said before whisking two flute glasses off a passing waiter and handing me one. We chinked glasses, laughing a little at how awkward all of this pomp and ceremony was for us before we both downed the expensive alcohol like shots. Dean winced slightly, handing his now empty flute back to the same waiter who gave him a concerned look.

“Aw damn, those bubbles - that shits wrong.”

“That’s because you’re supposed to sip it,” I laughed at him, placing my empty glass on an old polished oak sideboard.

“Then why did you neck it too if you knew?” He asked, furrowing his eyebrows at me. I shrugged.

“To be honest I don’t know - I guess I wanted to lighten the old-money mood in here.” He nodded, seeming to understand where I was coming from. After that fiasco we made our way towards the immense curved staircases at the end of the room, Deans hand occasionally touching my exposed back as he guided me in front of him, making me shiver involuntarily. We ascended, making our way up and past people who were at the top of the stairs, idly chatting and leaning on the bannister - not paying us any mind as we turned down a quiet corridor. We walked quietly, the hum of chatting remaining behind us as we made our way down the dim corridor, looking out for the room number Sam had given us.

“Room 19, room 19, room 19…” I chanted to myself searching every door until we found the right one. Coming to a stop, Dean quickly knelt down and pulled a lockpick from his pocket. I watched in fascination as he inserted the device, ever so gently manoeuvring it with a look of pure concentration on his face. I couldn’t stop myself from looking over at him whilst he was unaware; looking at those focused and hooded dark green eyes, slightly parted lips that he wet with his tongue and large muscled shoulders that were almost as wide as the doorway. I didn’t want to admit it, but God damn he was attractive. There was a click and he stood up quickly, pocketing the lockpick and opening the door, hurrying me inside. I walked gingerly into the room which looked like a mixture between a study and a museum. There were large bookcases spanning the walls, sideboards boasting an array of intriguing items, all contained in secure glass cabinets, and finally a large leather-topped mahogany desk in the centre of the room. This place smelt old.

I heard Dean close the door behind him as he paced in after me, immediately scanning the room.

“Right,” he said, his tone stern and authoritative, “you take that side and I’ll take this side.” I nodded, immediately scouring every surface for our haunted item.

We must’ve been looking for around ten minutes when Dean called me over.

“Do you think that’s it?” He almost whispered, pointing to an item that I would definitely have described as a jade hairpin.

“Yup,” I whispered back, leaning slightly closer to him so I could get a better look. I felt him draw a sharp breath in before sighing slightly. “Can you pick this lock?” I asked, ignoring his antics and sticking to the business at hand.

“Yeah give me a second and I’ll get it open,” he stepped in front of me. Not wanting to get in his way, I walked into the centre of the room to where the desk was and leant against it, looking around at all of the bizarre items. Surely there are some other haunted things in here other than what we came for. My eyes eventually landed on an old gramophone.

“Oh that bitch is definitely haunted,” I mumbled to myself right as I heard Dean pop the lock on the glass cabinet. I watched as he wrapped the hairpin in a square of fabric before shoving it into his pocket and clicking the cabinet closed.

“Mission complete,” he said, a slight grin on his lips as he walked to stand in front of me. That grin fell from his face though when suddenly there were voices outside the door and keys rattling in the lock. We hadn’t planned for this. He looked at me in a panic.

“Kiss me,” I blurted.

“What?”

“I have a plan: Dean just fucking kiss m-” it was like I didn’t have to tell him twice before he had a hand in my hair and his lips were on mine. My heart started pounding and his mouth was hot against my cool skin. I hummed, sliding my fingers up his chest to grip the lapels on his jacket, pulling him further in towards me. Before I could get sucked into whatever it was that I was feeling, the study door flew open and two older gentlemen in brown tweed suits walked in, stopping in their tracks at the sight of us.

“Good heavens! What are you doing in here?” One of them exclaimed. Dean turned his head to look at the men, a smirk on his face and I couldn’t help but blush furiously at the sight of my lipstick that was now smeared on the corner of his lips.

“So sorry gentlemen, the door was unlocked so we just let ourselves in. I hope you don’t mind…” I watched, my eyes widening a little as he lifted his jacket slightly, showing the gun that was tucked into his belt. The men’s eyes also widened and they backed up towards the door.

“Yes, yes! Of course you did! Please, take your time. Just…” the man paused, his eyes darting to the precious items on his desk, “please try not to make a mess - it’s all I ask.” And with that they both left as quickly as they arrived, closing the door behind them. I let out a sigh of relief, looking up at Dean.

“Thank fuck… Dean I’m so sor-” I didn’t have a chance to think as Deans mouth was back on mine; rough and needy. I sat in shock for a second before being pulled back to reality when Dean held the side of my face, his fingers sliding up to tangle with my hair. I couldn’t stop myself from kissing him back, my mind racing and going blank simultaneously. His free hand ghosted up my exposed leg, touching so gently I could barely feel him. He soon decided though that gentle wasn’t working for him, and he gripped my thigh, his fingers digging into my soft flesh and making me gasp - his hands on my body were already working their magic as I couldn’t stop his name from leaving my lips.

“Dean…” I moaned. I can’t believe it - I had actually moaned his fucking name. He groaned into my mouth, obviously liking the sound of his name rolling off my tongue. Tearing his hand from my hair and gripping my other thigh, without warning and with rushed movements, he lifted me with ease so I was sat atop the desk.

“Wrap your legs around me darlin,” he said with a deep lustful tone against my lips. I whimpered involuntarily as I did as he said. He pried his mouth from mine and started to kiss elsewhere; my cheek, behind my ear… my neck. I ran my hands over his shoulders and up the back of his neck, running my nails over his scalp and making him shiver. I gripped his hair and yanked, forcing his head up. I locked eyes with him, his eyes no longer that brilliant green but now blown and black with lust. My own eyes were probably no different. His gaze fluttered from my eyes to my lips, and before I let him kiss me again I leant forward and pressed my lips to his throat, my tongue on his skin. It was his turn to moan as I reached a hand down and traced a finger up the hard weapon growing in his pants. His large hands moving from my thighs to my ass, gripping tighter than ever before as I seemed to be pushing all the right buttons. He slid me to the edge of the desk so my lace-covered intimates were pressing right against him, friction and pleasure commencing. I pulled my lips from his throat before tugging his face down to mine, instigating the finale. I spoke breathlessly over his lips, already craving the taste of him again.

“Are you gonna fuck me or what, Winchester?”

Dean practically growled, frantically fumbling with moving my dress aside. He hooked a shaky but skilled finger into my underwear, trying to pull it aside but the elastic wouldn’t allow for it. I began to tremble as his digits kept ghosting over my most sensitive area. He soon gave up with his first plan, and his second plan made my eyes roll into the back of my head. Dean pulled a large hunting blade from inside his jacket and slid the flat side against my skin and up my thigh until it was under the lace fabric. The ice cold metal made me shiver before he swiftly sliced the blade up towards him, cutting my panties to shreds as he repeated the motion on the other side.

“Fuck that was hot,” I panted as he put the blade away and captured my lips again, running his tongue over mine. I gasped suddenly when he dipped a finger inside me, curling it and caressing that soft, sensual cushion that was hidden away. When I moaned, he added a second finger, leaning away from me slightly so he could see what a mess I was beneath him. After a few moments of utter bliss, he pulled his fingers out, sticking them straight in his mouth.

“You’re fucking delicious,” he groaned, standing up straight to shimmy out of his jacket. I leant forwards, grasping his belt buckle, undoing it and pulling down his zipper. Slowly I reached in and pulled him out of his boxers, his rock hard manhood hot and heavy in my palm. He closed his eyes as I ran my thumb over the tip, guiding my hand up and down, up and down, again and again until he grabbed my wrist.

“Let go so I can fuck you ‘til you can’t walk,” he practically growled, making me weak. I leant back on my palms, watching as he lined himself up and then disappeared inside me in one earth shattering motion. My eyes rolled back and my lips parted as I locked my ankles instinctively behind his back, my heels catching on the gun still tucked into his pants. He started to set a rhythm as he fucked me into the desk, the wooden structure sliding back with every thrust he made. He had both hands firmly planted on the desk beside me and I gripped his forearms tight, my head starting to spin from the overwhelming pleasure. It didn’t help that Deans head had dropped into the crook of my neck and his heavy breathing was like music to my ears. He kissed the skin there softly, drawing a moan from my lips with the sudden tenderness. The pounding was speeding up, and he suddenly wrapped an arm around my waist, desperately trying to get closer - to get deeper. The need for release was building and I’d lost control of my voice; Deans name tumbling from my lips like a prayer. I pressed his lips to mine feverishly, his breath ragged as he managed to pant out;

“Shit, (Y/n) I’m so close… I’m gonna need you to cum for me…”

I whimpered at the sound of my name on his breathless lips and he let go of my waist, placing his large palm on my stomach and sliding it down until his thumb connected with that bundle of nerves.

“Shit-Dean-,” whining against his mouth I started to feel the tension in the pit of my stomach build - the feeling of him pounding into me and stretching me more than ever before combined with his thumb on the magic button was a recipe for a quick release. And Dean knew that. He was fucking me so hard now that the sound of wet skin on skin echoed around the room and the banging of the desk could surely be heard from out in the corridor- maybe even downstairs. That knot was tightening, and tightening, and tightening until:

“Fuck- Dean I’m gonna cum!”

“Fuck,” was all he managed to groan before I shattered around him, that knot snapping and sending me into probably the best orgasm I’ve ever had. As I tensed up I pulled Dean over the edge with me and he buried his face into my neck, breathing heavily and cursing occasionally.

We stayed like that for a few moments, regaining some clarity and returning to earth. He took a few deep breaths before standing up and pulling out, tucking himself back into his pants and doing up his belt as his cum dripped down my thigh. He couldn't seem to look away, even when he reached for his jacket on the floor and put it back on.

“Stay there,” he said finally, disappearing behind some shelves for a second before returning with a box of tissues. He helped me clean myself up, tossing the tissues in the bin as we attempted to get rid of the evidence.

“Are you ok?” He asked sincerely, concern in his eyes as he offered me his hand. I smiled a little bashfully, placing my palm in his.

“I hate to admit it but I feel great.”

He helped me down off the table, placing a hand on my waist to help steady me on my still trembling legs. We both stood in a comfortable silence for a few moments before realisation hit us both and we looked at each other with wide eyes.

”Oh shit - Sam!”

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Up Next:

Chapter 7

[pia-nor481]

New set

Oscar Piastri x reader smut 18+

3.6k words

Oscar had planned this date for weeks, he knew exactly where to go and what to wear, granted it was a suit and bow tie, he knew she liked it, even though he was slightly strangled from the collar of the shirt. He'd been so busy with racing that they had almost no time together , apart from phone calls and the occasional text, it made racing weeks insuferable for him. All Oscar wanted was his darling girlfriend next to him, he wanted her to kiss him, he wanted her touch, he just wanted to breathe the same air. He'd even spent hours picking out the perfect dress, making sure it was taloired to fit in all the right places. He bought matching shoes and the perfect necklace for the neckline of the dress. The metal sat perfectly on her collar bones, making her neck more attractive to him than it already was. He aided her in the zipping up of her dress, he helped brushing out her hair and styling it, although that only included sectioning it. Oscar would have done her make up, if he was capable. You'd think a formula one driver would have very steady hands and a lot of precision, but not Oscar; he could not get eyeliner wings the same length or width no matter how hard he tried. So he insisted on watching her in the bathroom, he was more than happy to pass each product to her and watched as she applied each one. He was hyper focused on this, until she began to put her things away. He reached for her perfume bottle and sprayed behind her ears, chest and elbows. She quickly followed suit, searching for his new colone, one he'd bought on her request. She sprayed his chest, shoulders and abdomen before reaching for his tie, she had done the bow so perfectly in his eyes, when in fact it was a tad bit crooked.

"You look gorgeous as ever, love" Oscar spoke softly, sliding his hand down her back to guide her towards the front door. Heat rose to her face as she almost shied away from him. He was always quick to give her complements, this made a few think that they were insincere, but no, he was completely obsessed with her. Everything she did was perfect in his eyes and there was good reason for him to think this. They had reached the front door, Oscar immediately dropping to his knees to put her shoes on. "Oscar, baby, you don't need to help me, you've already done so much tonight, plus you have had a very long few weeks with the racing and testing." Little did she know this is how he'd spend every waking moment , with her. "I love you too much to not help, especially when you deserve it. You've been very busy as well, but you insisted on staying up until stupid o'clock to speak to me." He was right, she spent most of her nights talking with him, about racing and her own job. Mostly about Oscar's distain for DRS. But there was the occational phone sex, which both very much enjoyed. Once the pair had reached the car, Oscar had opened her door and done her seatbelt up. "I would kiss you but I dont want to mess up that lip gloss." He breathed out, turning the corner towards the resturant. She slid her hand up his leg a touch before speaking, "I get the feeling it wont last all night anyway." They pulled into the car park quicky, as to not miss the reservation. "Don't tease me, not in these trousers"

Once they had reached the table, he pulled her chair out, always the gentleman. "Thank you." She barely got out once her gaze met his, he offered a sweet smile and sat down. They'd ordered some wine and began to discuss everything imaginable. "So I brought this new camera but I don't really know how to use it, like I understand how to take pictures but not how to make them good." He nodded along , making sure she knew that he was paying attention. "Unfortunately i also am not very good with a camera, but I'm sure you'll get there. You always manage to take good pictures of me." Oscar said, taking a sip of his drink, questioning why he would even ask for a glass; he didn't enjoy wine much, but he knew she did, so he swallowed the liquid with out a complaint. "Unless it's a 0.5" she giggled from behind her glass, knowing he'd shake his head. "Now those, I must admit, are absolutly horrific." He said with a smile, he was never afraid to be himself with her, she always understood him, always taking his jests as jokes; Many did not get his sense of humor, but she did. She always did. They finished up the meal rather quickly. "Did you want dessert before leaving, Love?" He asked, anticipating her to say yes, it was rare for her to deny a sweet treat. Oscar also used this as an excuse to further cheat on his diet. "No, not today. I think there's something at home you'd like more." She said, as a slightly devious look painted her face. "Don't flirt with me too much, Darling, I'm not sure we would make it home if you keep this up."

The walk to the car was fast, Oscar had picked up his pace, wanting to get home as quick as possible, it was becoming almost painful. The whole drive back was rather silent, Her hand rested on his knee as he practically sped home, there was no worry about the speed limits, not that 100mph would have affected him much anyway. His mind however was working overtime, so many thoughts passed through, each one he had to suppress; he could not act on any thought, though he wanted to, so desperately. Oscar wanted to tease her just as much as she'd been doing to him, he wanted to pull her underwear away and slide two fingers inside, and make her cum right then and there. He wanted her to try and keep quiet, stressing about getting caught, but inevitably she'd moan his name loud. "My underwear are so soaked right now Oscar." She whispered out, voice becoming slightly higher. She was edging him on, hoping to rile him up enough to stop the car then. But he didn't, Oscar didn't even reply; so focused on not crashing the car. He needed to fuck her so badly, but she need to wait. She needed to be patient, something she was never good at. Oscar could try and teach her, but it wouldn't last. Plus he'd be lying if he said he didn't enjoy her behaviour the way it was now.

"Get out." He was demanding, but somehow not aggressive or mean. But his chivrealry did fade slightly as he walked straight to the front door, opening it swiftly. She followed as fast as physically possible with her heels on. As soon as she passed the thresh hold of the door he pushed her against it. "How many times do I have to tell you not to tease me? You know I'll just do it back, make you wait longer for what you want." Oscars hands slowly ran up her sides, stopping at her waist to give it a harder than nessecary squeeze. He enjoyed working his way around her body, not that he minded, he loved to simply admire her. Oscar smirked, knowing she was getting angsty, she just wanted to feel good, but he wouldn't let her, not yet anyway. It was very obvious that he liked foreplay just as much as the sex. It wasn't just something he needed to do, but rather something he wanted, something he craved. One of his hands traveled up he neck and reached her jaw agonisingly slow; He grasped it softly and pulled her into a passionate kiss, his other hand groped her ass, pulling her body so her chest was flush with his. He could feel how aroused she was, how hard her nipples were. He briskly decided to toy with them, just to hear her whine, after all, he diserved it. Her mews were muffled into his mouth as the kiss deepened, her hands were quick to snake around his neck, pulling him back towards her. In the mean time he twisted and tugged on her nipples. "Please Oscar, it's not fair." He began to feel slightly guilty hearing her statement, so he slid one of his hands down her abdomen. His hand slipped under her dress, toying with her underwear before letting his fingers touch her clit, only lightly. A sigh of relief slipped from her lips. She was quickly becoming as desperate as him and that only made him smile more. His desires were quickly becoming selfish, even though he began to rub tight circles on her clit, all he wanted was to hear, and see, how good he was making her feel at that moment.

He continued to build her up while his other hand continued to venture over the rest of her body, their lips rejoined but he pushed his tongue into her mouth, Oscar needed to feel every part of her, every part of her that needed him. His hand returned from her underwear as he dropped to his knees once again, bringing his hands over her legs, He lightly kissed her thighs while pushing the dress further up her hips. He tore the lace of her underwear apart, not bothered by her gasps of shock as the cold air touched her skin. His mouth attached to her cunt as quick as she would allow. He sucked and licked without a regard for his breathing, he was using this as a distraction. While pulling her shoes off, Her hands got tangled in his hair rather quickly in an attempt to ride his face. His nose lightly brushed her clit as his tongue slowly darted in and out of her cunt. She craved pleasure, she craved him. He came up from her thighs, looking up at her face immediately, being met with a gaze of lust. Oscar kissed her lips as he picked her up bridal style to carry her up the stairs. In the mean time she insisted on sucking and biting on his neck, even though he had said a few times it was no wise as he would get teased by the other divers about his love life. He carried her up the steps and kicked the bedroom door open, then placed her on the desk opposite the bed. Making sure she was comfortable against the cold surface, he then stood between her legs and kept eye contact as he unzipped the dress leisurely, sliding the shoulders down at a slow place. He like the feel of the fabric on his hands, but he wanted to feel her skin so much more. She closed her eyes and whined again, practically begging him to take her there.

"Wait and you'll get what you want, baby. When have I ever left you unsatisfied?" She let her head fall into is chest lightly, she was defeated because he was right, there was never a time she wasn't pleased; Even over a call where she could only hear his voice, although that was something she found so attractive she could cum just from hearing it.

"That's what I thought." He laughed out, lightly of course, so she didn't feel too disheartened. His fingers slid down and over her slit, her next comment was caught in her throat at the feeling. One thought began to merge with another, soon she couldn't think about anything other than his fingers inside of her. Her vision began to fade as he slipped another inside, just to pull them out again, causing her spine to straighten. She gave him a pointed look at the loss of his fingers, she wanted it so bad, but he denied her pleasure, something he promised . "Oh don't be like that. You know it will feel even better later when you do cum. It always does." Oscar exclaimed with a beautiful smile, which contradicted his almost harsh words laced with a sweet tone.

He reached for his belt, letting her know that she also needed to be bare. Her dress quickly fell to the floor so she helped him undress, pulling the bow tie loose from around his neck and letting it fall to the floor. Her hands slowly reached out for the buttons of his shirt, she decided it was worth giving him a taste of his own medicine. As slow as physically possible, she undid the buttons, Oscar shook his head, trying to be patient. Once his shirt was discarded he began to feel her up again, reaching for her tits again, evidently the bra was in the way. But it looked so amazing on her, everything did. She always brought the most stunning lingerie, it was what she liked to spend her money one. To look and feel good. Wasting no time, he ripped it apart where the fabric met at her cleavage. "Oscar!" was all he heard, picking her up with ease; He gently threw her on the bed and crawled between her legs. She looked at him, almost completely fucked out, yet he barely even touched her. Oscar began to slowly stroke his cock at the sight of her. It was just so arousing, so much blood rushed through his body, making him impossibly harder. He dragged the tip of his cock over her cunt, teasing again, before slowly pushing the head in then pulling it out. He repeated this motion until she wrapped her legs around his waist, urging him to slide all the way in. It was hard to resist so he gave in to her desire. Oscar kept the pace slow, wanting to feel all of her.

One of his hands slid up and down her thigh, it was a comforting act he knew she liked. They had a long talk about what they had experienced and what they wanted from sex when they first got together. Oscar's main points was how he wanted to be in charge, but only when he really knew her and how her body worked. He aimed to learn every little thing that got her hot and bothered, what got her wet and what made her cum the fastest. She said that she was sick of how rough men could be, thinking automatically that's what she wanted.  She loved the romantic aspect of sex, more than just the sensational joys. She wanted to be intimate and to feel loved. It seems as though it was all possible with him. She didn't want to feel used, and he always made sure of it.

Oscar's other hand grazed over her wrist before they interlocked their hands. He was trying not to put too much pressure on her. Ensuring that she only felt good. "That's it, yes, Oscar." She moaned out, mouth falling open. His hands left their current home in order give her a new sensation. They both loved to try new things, to see what could be felt. So Oscar began to rub her clit again, at varying speeds and pressures to find what felt most pleasurable today. Once he found the right pace he continued steadily wanting her to reach the peak like she deserved.

She moaned loud, gasping for air while reaching out for him. "You like that baby? Yea? Feels so good right?" He said, voice dropping an octave, even with the teasing tone. She could only nod, not trusting her voice to fully convey her feelings. She slowly began to pull him closer by his neck, they started to kiss again, though, this time it was a lot more rushed and a lot more needy. Oscar bathed in the feeling of her nails raking down his back as she almost squeezed him for support. Even if he was hovering over her. He grabbed behind her knee, lifting her leg to get a better angle, knowing it would fill them both with bliss. And was he right. "Uh, Oscar, Mh, feels, feels so good baby." With her words slurring together he knew she was getting closer. Her heart was beating loud and her lungs were burning. Something about the glint in his eyes pushed her further towards release, his groaning didn't help either. Her ability to resist was dimmed as Oscars hips started to move a tad bit faster. "There..there you go." He began to praise again, "Always so perfect for me," her face warmed as a response.

The feeling was becoming too much, her mind was too foggy and her body couldn't take anymore. The pleasure was blinding, her voice echoed around the room and her head shook side to side. Her hips came off of the bed as her spine curved. Oscar didn't let up, making sure to let her ride her orgasm out. He didn't want to ruin it after all the teasing. Once she had come down she'd pulled him into a kiss. Her cunt was still twitching, so Oscar pulled out, kissing her back. He moved her further up the bed, to rest her head against the pillows before continuing.

He slid his cock back in with ease, not starting as slow as he did before, he knew she could take it now. His hands rested on the headboard as a form of support, in the mean time, her hand found its way to the back of his head, she began tugging lightly again, a sensation he adored. Any composure they had quickly dissolved as Oscar began to drive in and out of her at a faster pace, chasing his high; his hips rolled rhythmically, she pushed towards him, wanting his cock deeper inside. Oscar's hand pressed down on her abdomen to feel himself, and to make her gasp. He wanted to hear how everything he did affected her, he wanted to see the impact on her, what his control did. It was all becoming too much for Oscar, "Fuck, baby, come with me, I can feel how close you are," He groaned out, pulling her impossibly closer, reaching down for her clit again, not concerned about overstimulating her anymore. The orgasm hit him hard, eyes rolling to the back of his head as his hips stuttered slightly, reducing his speed with out even thinking, no preoccupied with the feeling of her cunt around him. Oscar pulled out just as slow as he first pushed in and reached for her hands, grasping them before pulling them above her head. With her hands pressed down, Oscar had full control, choosing to kiss her, as sloppy as he pleased. Her back arched so gracefully, forcing their chests together. Her orgasm was so powerful all she could think about was him, what he was doing to her. She gazed up at him with glossy eyes, one his hands left hers, travelling past her shoulder blades to aid in the support of her back, he needed her body pressed to him. Oscar pulled away from her lips, a playful smirk on his face; until she used all of her remaining strength to turn him over, pushing his body flush on the bed. As she straddled him, Oscar's hands went straight for her his, keeping her steady all while anticipating her next move. Still in her haze, she ran her hands up his toned abdomen and chests so slow he let out a strained huff, Once she reached his jaw, she grasped it, rather firm, a tad bit aggressive for her. He didn't bother to chastiser her, Oscar new she just wanted to feel him, any way she could. She slipped her tongue into his mouth and he just let her, he gave her everything she wanted and he'd give her everything she could ever ask for. She moaned into his mouth, felling him up, he'd let her do this for as long as she wanted. as long as she could. Simultaneously  he squeezed the plump of her ass and rubbed one hand up and down her thigh, the ghosting touch didn't go unnoticed, she intern decided to bite his lip lightly. Oscar let out a breathy laugh as a response, he looked at her gorgeous eyes, wishing he could stare at them forever. "I love you" they said in unison. 

She began to lie down next to him, not letting go of his hand in the processes. "You are perfect, you know that, right, baby?" Heat crept up her face again and she smiled, leaning further into him. "I think I might have an idea, my boyfriend tells me quite a lot, and I love him dearly, he's rarely wrong." Oscar kissed her cheek as her eyes began to close. They both quickly fell into  a rather deep sleep. 

A few days later, Oscar found himself walking through a shopping centre alone, He planned o buying a few things for her before he had to leave for another race across the world. He walked into a shop and all eyes were on him for a few seconds. Until he began to browsed for her size. Oscar quickly walked towards the till and almost kept his head down before the cashier spoke to him. "I'm sorry but I don't think this is your size." She said, clearly trying to ease his nerves. He smiled lightly before replying. "No? I think I might need to get some work done." The woman behind the till laughed dryly and continued to speak, "So what's the occasion? birthday? Anniversary?" Oscar paused before speaking again, "I broke the last set."

[ashleyfilm]

The First Morning with Dave York

Just a little one shot I felt inspired to write. Hope you all enjoy. ;) 2.3K

Characters: Dave You x Female Reader

Story Warnings: Dom Dave, sub reader, cockwarming, smut. Minors DNI!!!

You wake up on your day off in a bed that’s not yours. You stayed the night with Dave for the first time last night. You started seeing each other two months ago and at first it was purely sexual. He was divorced, raising two daughters with his ex, and he didn’t need a new relationship. You thought that would work for you. You had been on and off with your ex for years now and you needed a distraction so you wouldn’t keep crawling back into their bed anytime you got lonely. 

So, there was Dave, with his dark almost angry eyes, across from you at the bar that fateful night you met. He sent you a drink and before you could look up to catch his eye again, he was next to you. His suit jacket on the back of the chair, his crisp white button-down shirt with the tie and collar pulled open, the perfectly snug fitting black slacks and expensive shoes. He asked your name and told you he liked your eyes. That brought a flush to your cheeks, and he smirked at you, his plush lips pouting under his strong almost villainous looking nose. He was beautiful, a little frightening, intense and stoic. You knew you were in for it as soon as he got you back to his apartment.

His place was like him, dark, clean lines, no clutter, everything had a place and a purpose. He took your coat off with skilled hands, everything he did was swift. His large hands roamed your skin, and he felt you shiver under his touch. Somehow, he read you right then, he knew you wanted to be controlled, led, instructed and cared for. Everything you did that night; you did at his command. He reveled in the control he felt. You in turn, enjoyed the freedom he provided. He was strong but gentle, forceful but safe. He brought you pleasure for hours. His fingers between your legs, his mouth on your breasts, his nose in your hair. His large, stiff cock inside you making you completely turn yourself over to him and utterly fall apart.

You would meet three times a week on the weeks his children were with their mother. He would take you to drinks lasting no longer than 30 minutes for two reasons, he couldn’t wait any longer to get you home and he didn’t want you to know him too well. So, quickly, he would bring you back to his place and make you come over and over and over again.

Lately, things have been changing. You’re making him laugh, he’ll slip up and tell you a story about his childhood or acting a fool in his 20s. And before he could stop it, you’d hold his hand in yours, eyes pleading his to let you in. He started asking about you and your life, listening intently like he wanted to commit it all to memory. And last night, he asked you to stay. You had broken through. And your feelings had grown beyond what you could have imagined. You were truly his now.

You feel around the bed blindly looking to Dave’s warmth, but he’s not there. Soon you find the note on the pillow. You hit the switch to open the blinds and start to make out what it says. “I’ve got a conference call this morning but as soon as I’m done, we can talk. Breakfast is in the kitchen.” – D. A smile creeps on your face, and you find an old university t-shirt and shorts laid out on the dresser next to the bed. You pull them on and smell him so strongly in the clothes, it makes you wet already.

You pad, barefoot down the hall to the kitchen, and find a plate covered, underneath, toast with jam, scrambled eggs with cheese and crispy bacon. And a mini hot sauce bottle next to it. Along with an iced chai latte, which you don’t know how he remembered you saying that’s what you preferred over coffee. He said he couldn’t imagine anyone surviving without coffee. Then you find a still steaming mug of coffee on the counter. After you take a few bites of everything on your plate, you muster up the courage to bring Dave his coffee. Terrified to interrupt but surely, he wants it.

You knock lightly on his office door, which is slightly cracked, when he doesn’t answer you push it open and start to walk in. Dave looks up at you from his desk chair with wide eyes. He’s wearing no shirt and just gray basketball shorts, and his hair is a mess and a slight shadow of a beard forming on his usually clean face. He’s clicking away on his laptop with the phone up to his ear. You clench your teeth together and smile, squinting your eyes trying to be quiet and hold up the mug as an explanation. He smirks softly, waving you over. Taking the mug from you and sipping. He reached over to you and pulls you in by your neck, giving you a chaste peck on the lips that lights your entire body on fire.

He inhales your scents mixed and almost growls but it’s so low you think you might be mistaken. “I understand what you’re asking for Mike, but it’s not that simple,” Dave says sternly into the phone. You mouth a silent sorry and try to step away, but he grabs your wrist as he puts the receiver down, turning the phone on speaker to free his hands. He mutes the call from your end and looks you up and down and then speaks, “Sweetheart, what were you thinking coming in here like that?” The men and women on the call are still speaking as if nothing has changed and you still speak quietly even though you know you’re on mute, “D, I’m sorry, I thought you’d want your coffee, and I put on the clothes I thought you laid out for me.” Dave’s fingers trail up your arm soothingly and he hums, “Well, I do want my coffee, and you did wear the clothes I laid out for you, but I didn’t expect you to look so fuckable in them and here I am on a morning call and you’ve distracted me.” Dave stands and starts to lift the shirt off over your head. You let him, like you let him do anything to you. He then takes your shorts and panties off in one motion, leaving you standing before him fully nude.

Dave hits the unmute button and hold a shushing finger to your lips, never looking away from your eyes as he speaks, “Mike, looks like December 15th is the earliest we can make that shipment and if it’s going to be any earlier it’s going to cost approximately two times as much.” He hits the mute button again and you wonder how he can multitask like this because you can barely hear anything anyone is saying. It’s all drowned out, you can only see, hear and feel Dave. His finger traces down your face, your neck, your breast, your stomach and finally to your folds, “Knew you’d be wet baby, been that way since you woke up, huh? Well, since you distracted me so much from my meeting and you already seem so eager, I’m going to try something with you.” You look at him fully consenting with just your eyes. You know each other’s rules and if you wanted anything different you could stop this with one word or two quick touches.

“You’re gonna sit on my cock while I work at my desk. And you’re not going to move or speak or come until after my call has ended and I allow it. You’re going to sit facing me with your head on my shoulder and your pussy warming my cock,” he instructs, and you stand there until he moves again. He sits at his desk and turns his chair toward you. Without being asked, you lift your leg to straddle him while facing him. Your arms go around his neck and shoulders and your head into the crook of his neck. He lifts you and notches his hard thick cock at your entrance and pulls you slowly back down. You moan into his neck, and he shushes you. “Okay, okay, I know it’s a lot. But you can take it, honey. I’m going to unmute the call now so now more noises. Okay? You’re gonna be my good girl and take it because this is your punishment, and you deserve it for distracting me.”

He takes his hand and smooths it over your hair a few times before unmuting and continuing with his work. Typing at his computer, looking through files, answering and asking questions on the call, looking through printed files on his desk. All while your pussy drips down his cock and onto his balls and thighs. Every time he moves to type or write a note or anything even to raise his voice on the call, you’re in absolute agony, pleasure so intense but no relief. Just a torturously slow build of blinding fucking ecstasy. Your eyes start to fill with tears, then they stream down your face. Your grip on Dave is so tight, whether it’s your pussy or your arms, you hold on for dear life.

He's so strong, he never breaks. He ignores you completely, it’s as if you’re not there. His conference call goes off without a hitch, no one has a clue what he’s doing on the other end of the line. You start to wonder if he’ll ever be done, if he’ll ever give you what you need, or if you’ll be in this limbo of pain and pleasure forever. You know you can just touch him twice on the thigh and it’ll be over, he’ll hang up and you’ll be okay, but you don’t want that. You want this. You begin to wonder if you even deserve it, to be allowed to come and if anything has really changed between you two but then you are brought back to reality when you hear Dave say, “Thank you, everyone. I’m glad we could come to an agreement that I believe will be beneficial for all of us. Let’s follow up in a month and Jessica will contact you all about that follow up. Thanks again. Goodbye.”

He sighs as he hangs up the phone. Coming to hold you in his embrace speaking quietly in your ear, “My girl, my good girl. You did perfect. I can’t believe how incredible you are. I’m so proud of you, you held on for so long and now I’m going to reward you, my baby. Okay?” He pulls you to look into your eyes and sees the tears and the faraway look in your eye. He licks your tears away and kisses over your eyes and nose and mouth. Then he starts to thrust into you. Grinding. The sound of your slick is making the most obscenely beautiful sounds filling Dave’s office and its music to both your ears.

“Let me hear you baby, you can make sounds now, go on. If it feels good, let it out,” he says punctuating words with his harsh thrusts. “Baby, I’m sorry I distracted you. I learned my lesson, I want to be good,” you whimper and moan out the words in a slur. Dave responds immediately, helping lift you and make you bounce on his dick now, “Baby, I know you learned, and you were so good and you’re gonna get your reward, all of it, all my come inside you. That’s what you want, right?”

And just as he says that you start to tense up while bouncing on him with the help of his strong arms, “Fuck, I’m gonna come. I’m fuck- I’m coming, oh god, I can’t control it, oh god fuuuuuck.” And you continue to scream as your come spills out all over Dave’s lap with a splash. You’ve never done that before. You’re about to look at him in horror when Dave says, “Baby, oh my fucking god, you just squirted all, over, me.” Thrusting with every word, “Fuck, take this come, take it all, fuck baby. Ooooohhhhhh,” with that, Dave releases his hot load deep inside you.

He's holding you and kissing you and you come again as he holds you, unable to control it. “Oh my god, baby, have you ever done that before? It was beautiful. God, that’s going to be my mission in life, to make you do that as often as I can, do you hear me?” You’re crying again but it’s with relief and bliss. “Did I do good?” you ask quietly. It sends shivers down his spine. He grabs your face in his hands, and he says, “You did more than I could have dreamed of. How are you, are you okay?” You start to laugh a little and he does too. “Yeah, I’m really fucking good.” Dave responds, stroking your back, “Well, I might have left my coffee in the kitchen on purpose to set this little experiment up.” You gasp, looking at him, “OH MY GOD, you are evil, Dave York.”

He smiles, “Yeah, maybe. I just thought I would make this day special. Your first night over, your first morning with me, your first day as my girlfriend.” He looks at you and your eyes flick up to meet his and he continues, “If that’s what you want, baby.” He starts to look a little worried and you realize the power has been all yours for a while, you decide not to torture him as long as he tortured you and you say, “Yes, Dave, I’ll be yours, if you’ll be mine.” He smiles and kisses your lips with his, “I’ve been yours for a while.” You smile and kiss him until he starts to harden inside you, and you start to fuck all over again.

The End.

[prudentseer]

etho down bad on his knees for joel after initially rejecting him but pride-and-prejudice-enemies-to-lovers-period-drama style

sorry i had to find someone who might(?) share the vision

Hold my hand when I say this anon but never be afraid to drop your takes into my inbox, I love to hear them regardless of whether or not I see the vision.

Fortunately for you however. I SEE THE VISION, I UNDERSTAND YOU.

The "fell first--fell harder" dynamic for boat boys fits SO WELL in my mind because of double life. Etho being wary of Joel, kinda sad that he's teamed with him and by the end he's right there with Joel in chanting "The ship burns everything burns". Also their dynamic in limited life where they were "exes"...they are enemies your honour. I call that character development.

In fact, I see the vision so much that I actually wrote something in a more arranged marriage, period drama-esc style a long while back. It's unfinished (and a bit out of order for context purposes) because historical fiction is not my specialty and I know it's not exactly what you asked for, but it's what I had and I thought I'd share a snippet (it's 1.2k words I don't think I can exactly call it that anymore) of it.

It was odd, really, how much love could feel like an obsession.

He expressed it as quietly as he possibly could in forehead kisses and small gifts; just so it didn't collect in his chest to claw at the confines and suffocate him. And it was probably dramatic to say but with the lack of air he felt around Joel it truly did feel as though if he didn't let some of it out of his heart, he'd explode.

Or even worse, he'd tell Joel how he really felt.

He'd gotten dangerously close on occasion after too many drinks by the fireplace or Joel dancing a step too close. But he didn't.

Because Joel didn't love him back.

And why would he? Etho had all but forbidden him from doing so.

This day had felt equal parts fast and agonizingly slow. But he had a feeling that a marriage he didn't agree to, with someone he barely liked, for power he couldn't have might have something to do with that.

Joel rests on the edge of the bed, one leg up and crossed on the mattress while the other dangled loosely over the edge. His tie hung loose around his neck and his shoes long kicked off but his suit still on. Etho leaned against the dresser across from him, arms folded and mouth pressed into a firm line. The grandfather clock ticking beside them. It had been three minutes and 29 seconds since they've entered their shared room and neither of them had spoken.

It was much easier to watch as time passed silently than it was to look at the person in his bed, the matching ring on his finger.

A heavy sigh startles him from his thoughts. "Listen, could you at least pretend to tolerate me?"

Etho blinks slowly. "I--"

"Don't say you have because how you've been acting like there's been a knife at your throat the entire day." Joel interrupts, running a hand through his hair. A nervous tick, something Etho noticed in the time they've spent together. "I've sent you three letters since we last saw each other; none of which you replied to, you were barely there for any of the planning process and when I see you for our actual wedding, you can't even look me in the eye."

"That's because--"

"Of what? Because I told you that I loved you?" Joel rolls his eyes. "God, excuse me for putting an effort to make it work with the man I've been betrothed to for over a year."

He remembers the day. They'd been exchanging letters weekly for several months at this point but it was only their third official time meeting in person. It was a nice day so they took a walk through Joel's garden and I instead of the flowers Etho noticed that there was this look in Joel's eye, a smile on his face and a certain tone in his voice...Joel didn't even need to tell him. He just knew. It made it extremely uncomfortable to see him again, that they both knew.

He glances down at the ring on his own finger before shaking his head.

"I'm never going to love you like you want me to."

"That's fine." Joel states, a small twitch in his face betraying his words. "I'll...I'll get over it eventually if it means you'll work with me."

Etho tilts his head. "Work with you?"

"You don't have to love me. You don't even have to like me or be friends with me..."

"But...?"

"But we're going to be a team." Joel finishes, pulling off his tie in one swift movement as he does. "This means you're going to sit next to me at gatherings, you're going to dance with me at least once when we're invited to balls, you'll eat one meal a day with me, you'll share a room with me and please for the love of God, at the very least don't look like you're going to throw up when you see me."

A compromise. A reasonable one.

"I can do that." Etho replies, as level as he can, straightening his own tie as he does. "On one condition."

"What?"

"You won't ever expect anything more."

He's being bitter and he knows it. Taking out his anger out on someone who doesn't deserve it, someone who didn't ask for this either. It's unlike him really, that he can't bring himself to care.

"You're not exactly making it difficult lad."

"Joel--"

"You have a deal."

Etho nods. "Then I'll play the part."

"You'll play the part *well*."

"I promise."

Etho didn't remember exactly when it stopped being a show to him.

"Really interesting page?"

Etho blinks himself back into reality, Joel staring at him so intently from his side of the bed that he feels his chest tighten. "What?"

Joel chuckles, rubbing his eyes sleepily before shuffling close enough that Etho can wrap an arm around his shoulder. And he does, squeezing it lightly as his arm curls around.

"You've been staring at this page blankly for the past ten minutes." Etho glances at the grandfather clock in the corner. It's been longer. "You don't have to read the book if you don't like it."

This book was Joel's recommendation and Etho had to admit that it was good, he'd just been...very distracted lately.

"No I like it's just..."

"Yeah?" He smiles, head bumping Etho's shoulder. It burns. Every touch Joel gives him feels like fire has been set to his veins. "What's wrong?"

And his eyes are staring up at him so soft and kind and warm and understanding and it feels like he can tell him anything. Almost anything. The words feel heavy on his tongue, going down like oil as he swallows them.

"Nothing, you should go back to sleep."

He won't be able to resist forever but he buys himself one more day.

Joel's nose wrinkles. "You--"

And Etho is saved by the fact Joel's interrupted by his own yawn.

"You know I'm not stupid right Etho?" Joel states, settling further into Etho's arm as he does. Etho only pulls the sheet tighter. "You've been weirder than usual and if you won't tell me, I'll figure it out myself."

Theoretically, he could tell him but what then? He wouldn't leave, he wouldn't laugh but if Joel knew what Etho felt for him, he would never let him get this close to him again.

And it'd exactly what he deserved.

Karma for being an asshole to someone who just wanted to not be treated like dirt by his husband of circumstance and all he can do is accept it. Accept that he missed his chance.

Maybe one day his heart will catch up with his brain.

"Goodnight Joel."

"I'm serious." He yawns again, head tucked into the crook of Etho neck; breath tickling his clavicle. "I know you better than you like. Just wait."

It's true and it's even scary sometimes. Etho wonders how on earth he got so lucky to have someone that understands him like Joel. Someone who was willing to stick by his side through everything.

Etho waits until Joel is settled, snoring softly again before he places his book down gently on the nightstand, blowing out the table side candle. He tilts his head and presses a soft kiss to the top of Joel's head, waiting in case he stirs.

"I love you." He whispers into his hair, taking a breath when there's no response.

And the part of his chest settles just enough that he feels like he can sleep too.

[tfnonsense]

No Suit

Steve Smith tried not to fidget. He was dressed in business casual clothes, and seated in a plain folding chair in the hallway outside an office.

He wasn’t alone. Several other job candidates were in other chairs, each and every last one of them wearing some form of suit and tie.

Even their haircuts looked more professional. The haircut on the guy across from him probably had its own bachelor’s degree.

Steve didn’t own a suit. He had thought most business people didn’t wear them anymore, and besides which, he couldn’t afford one! He wasn’t at a job interview because he was rolling in cash!

Should he have borrowed one? Would a suit fitted for someone else have been better than none at… AT…

CHOO!

Steve abruptly sneezed, and it was a hell of a thing. At the apex of the sneeze, Steve’s hair exploded into longer, wavy orange hair that framed his now freckled, feminine face. 

The outfit he was so worried about burst into scraps, and reformed as a two piece bikini covering his newly slender, feminine figure.

“Covering”, perhaps, being a generous way of putting it, but more modesty than none was preserved.

A striped orange cat tail with alarmed fur sprouted, a hole in the bikini bottom accommodating it. His ears became big and cat-like with orange fur and black stripes, and were higher on his head than made any sense.

His hands were now covered in over-sized cat paw mittens with stuffing to maintain their big paw shape, and the slippers that had replaced his shoes and socks matched.

Mercifully, no gross remnants from his sneeze seemed to remain.

“NYAH!” Steve the catgirl meowed with alarm in a newly feminine voice, looking down at his new cleavage, tail, and all the rest of it. He pawed awkwardly at the top of his head with mitten-clad hands, confirming the cat ears.

This sort of thing happened to people sometimes, and there were plenty of ways to reverse it later if he liked, but why NOW of all times?!

His competition did their best to remain professional, but even they couldn’t hide snickers and general looks of amusement.

Steve had no idea what to do. Should he prioritize removing the mittens? How would he even do that? With his teeth?

Absentmindedly, his tongue investigated the inside of his mouth. His canines definitely felt bigger now.

The door to the office opened, and a professional-looking woman leaned out, her eyes on a tablet. “Steve Smith?”

“Meow… I mean, here…” Steve replied, a mitten-paw raised awkwardly.

The woman looked at Steve with surprise. “Oh dear. I assume this just happened?”

Steve nodded.

Without hesitation, she replied. “We won’t hold a sudden transformation against you, but if you’d rather reschedule, that would be fine.”

“You… You’re not bothered by…?” Steve, not knowing how to finish that sentence, shook his hands a bit while moving his tail.

She shook her head, smiling. “I get how it is. I turned into a hippo lady in the middle of a presentation last week. I WISH I’d wound up in an outfit that modest.”

Steve blushed a little, then stood, his tail and ears up. Everything seemed a little bigger than before as he looked up at the pleasant woman. “Well, then, I suppose there’s no reason to put it off!”

“Great! We like people who can roll with the punches.” As they entered the office, she added “so what pronouns do you prefer?”

“I… THINK he-him?”

Later, Stephanie the catgirl learned she got the job.

[marcyiyi]

,,Should I wear the red or the black one? I mean, I’ll look like I’m going to a funeral in the black, but isn’t the red a bit too much?” ,,Sirius, sweetheart, both of them are too much. For Merlin’s sake, you don’t need to wear a tie for my mam.” Remus moved to stand behind his boyfriend in front of the mirror, where he was getting ready. ,,Okay then, it’s just that the outfit doesn’t even look good without it.” Sirius whined, turning to their closet. ,,Without the tie, it’s not complete, with it, it’s too formal, I could try a different shirt, but black with black is funeral, black with red is slutty, the others I have are patterned, so too dégagé, I could borrow yours, except that won’t fit me and I’ll look like a scarecrow and-“ he got cut off with Remus’ bear hug from behind. ,,Hey, cariad*. Let’s take a step back.” he turned the nervous man around and brushed his cheek with one hand, the other still keeping him close by the waist. ,,I noticed you’re different today. You’ve put your hair up, into a neat bun, no less. You only do that when you’re too mad to deal with it and you hate when someone sees you like that.” Remus said, hand moving to said neat bun, then dropping lower to Sirius’ ears. ,,You’ve got no earrings on, though you could wear all of your collection with this emmental of an earlobe.” he continued, kissing the bare place, where a sun-shaped jewel normally was. ,,And where’s your makeup? Did your eyeliner dry out? Did you lose your mascara?” he mumbled in a concerned tone. ,,N-no, I just, uhm, didn’t feel like any of that today?” was the answer. ,,Didn’t feel like it? Sweetheart, I noticed you only have our ring on, no painted nails. You’re wearing a damn white shirt with suit paints and planned on adding a tie. You have dress shoes and a coat ready in the hall instead of the heavy combat boots with charms on them and that hot, hot leather jacket. You’re just so not you.” Remus insisted, his eyebrows knitted and gaze moving across his boyfriend’s face. ,,Well I am meeting your mother today, if you forgot.” Sirius snapped. ,,Yeah, is that what brought this on?” Remus asked, voice still calm and hands cupping his lover’s face now. ,,Obviously. I want to make a good first impression.” Sirius admitted. ,,And you think the only way to do that is by censoring your personality and style?” ,,I can’t exactly show up in a mini skirt and a crop top, can I?” he still sounded angry. ,,I’m not asking you to do that.” The taller man chuckled. ,,But you don’t need to hide who you are. My mam loves everything I tell her about you and is always asking how you are, which muggle are you listening to and when are you gonna come over.” he continued more seriously. ,,Really?” Sirius’ eyes widened. ,,Yes, cariad. After she got over not having grand children to spoil, she’s happy that we’re happy. She’s not your mother, she won’t judge you, even with eyeliner, or rings, or a patterned shirt. Hell, the best you could wear is my Beatles t-shirt, she loves them.” Remus smiled and was relieved to see the same on his boyfriend’s face. He gave himself a mental pat on the back for getting Sirius out of his head. He now turned back to the closet and Remus could see the wheels turning, trying to come up with a better outfit. ,,And cariad, don’t you dare pull some hide and seek crap when we’re there. Don’t hide from mam behind that Black mask. She’d know and she’d try to get the real you and believe me, you’d have to put on a hell of a performance, you’d flake out from exhaustion in the middle of dinner. I know she’ll adore you, just like I do.” he assured his no longer freaking out boyfriend and pressed a kiss to his forehead. ,,Oh, Merlin please no, I’d be very disturbed.” Sirius laughed. ,,Hey, that’s my mam you’re talking about.”

@wolfstarmicrofic dec. 14, flake

*cariad=welsh endearment

[ruhitsblog]

Swapped at an old werehouse

My name is Lu Han , a Chinese young man in his 23 years old age I was going to become the successor of a multi billion company at Shanghai . I was working for my company for 4 years now and had the best results ever. It was obvious that I was going to succeed my boss as the next CEO of this company. All the board members and even my boss himself was going to accept it.

I left the company's building after a meeting. It was announced that I was going to take over the company's leadership after the next shareholders meeting in two weeks. It was a huge success for me and I should celebrate it but I needed time to think.

I headed towards the big plaza in the middle of the city. When I arrived I've started leaning against a well as always. I werent hungry but I loved to watch people. To see them talk, walk, eat and laugh. I wanted to know everything. My eyes moved inquisitively from left to right and back. I noticed that many couples walked over the plaza at that time but then something catched my eye. On the opposite side, under the rusty metal stairs that led to the old warehouse, two bright blue eyes were looking at me. I crossed the plaza, walking towards the eyes.

As I came closer I noticed that an old homeless man sat in the shadows beneath the stairs. His crystal blue eyes were hypnotizing. Now standing about 15 feet away from him he said:"You look good young man. I was a good looking man once too..." His voice made my skin crawl. It was a deep, soothing voice that gave me chills. He continued:"Come with me, I want to show you something." He stepped out of the shadows into the sunlight. I started to see the deep wrinkles on his face, the grey stubbles that should become a beard and the bald head with some remaining hairs. I estimate him to be around 78 years old. He wore a worn and worned and torned clothes and old dress shoes with holes that were tried to be plugged with tape. He started to walk up the stairs and as if I couldn't control my body I followed him. Both of us went inside the old warehouse.

He turned towards me and looked me deep into the eyes. At first I felt unsettled and wanted to turn around but his eyes were something special, I couldn't look away.

"You look good young man.", he said again. "Like a nice guy who helps people in need." I started nodding, even though I didn't want to. "Dont you want to help a homeless man who needs warm clothes and a job?", he asked with a smirk. "Of course!", I answered not knowing what is happening. Still confused not being able to control my body, I start to pull off my jacket and handled it to him. He put it on, still looking me into the eyes. Then he continued:"And dont you want to give him a warm shirt too?" I pulled off my white shirt and my tie, handing them over. I looked at him, confused, why he wanted to see me topless.

I felt how he looked at my abs and then at my belt buckle. "Dont you want to give him a pair of trousers too? He would love to wear those." Lu han nodded and pulled off his pants and socks. Now standing in front of him, only wearing my boxers, I was completely confused. He looked at my muscular body, staring at my bulge, before he continued:"How should he wear the suit without any underwear.", he asked while nodding towards my bulge. I stripped out of my boxers and handed them over.

I was standing completely naked in front of him and he was looking me from the tip of my head till my toes. He took of his trashbag, revealing his old, thin and wrinkled body. He put on my suit with a loud moan. He handed me his old shoes and the trashbag:"Dont you want to wear this? It would fit you as a homeless man."

I grabbed it thankfully and put them on.

The man made a step towards me, putting his hands on both of my cheeks. He kissed me heartily and I felt how something is leaving my body, but I didn't care. I felt a weird sensation of something crawling in my body, something that made me feel different. When he finished the kiss I looked into his eyes again and saw a smirk on his face. I saw that his body started to change. The wrinkles were getting less, the beard started to disappear and his muscles got thicker and stronger. His hair started to grow again and his old dress shoes were changing to my expensive leather shoes.

I looked at myself. I had long grey hair now, my eyes were looking like the blue eyes I saw before, I had a grey beard and my skin got wrinkled. I looked down and saw that I was wearing a trash bag, his old dress shoes and my hair grew a long grey beard.

He put his hands on my shoulders:"You are now like me, young man. A homeless who needs help. It was nice to meet you. But it was time for me to go, my time is over now."

He starts to dress up like the real Lu Han , and I couldn't believe it. He was wearing my suit now and it fits perfectly. I looked at him and saw that he had the same muscles, the same shape of the face and even the same brown haircolor. It was as if I was standing in front of a mirror but it wasnt possible. I felt how something was crawling deeper into my body, changing me. My hair turned white and my skin got wrinkled.

The young man that used to be Lu Han was standing in front of me. He looked at me:"Dont you want to go back to your place beneath the stairs?"

Of course I wanted to go back there. I loved sitting there watching happy people on the plaza. The two of us left the warehouse. I sat down beneath the stairs, watching the young man cross the plaza to lean against a well.

I observed him every day since that moment in my life. Every time I saw him, my old wrinkled hands grabbed the air as if you could touch him. It felt as if I knew that guy in thlse expensive looking suits and I wished to know how it would be to live his life.

Every time he took off his jacket, I saw a tattoo on his arm. A symbol of our company.

I smiled at him. He was doing a great job and I knew that he would have a good life. He will be the best CEO our company ever had and he deserved it. I was happy to see him every day.

I thought I could be happy with this life but sometimes I felt sad. I was wondering who the other men were before me and how they ended up like this. But it wasn't important anymore. What's important was that he was living a good life now.

I stood up and started walking towards him. I reached him, sitting beside him at the well and smiled:"You're doing a good job young man. You are living a good life and I'm proud of you."

He looked at me confused and turned towards me. He looked me up and down, looking at my old body and he shook his head:"I'm sorry old man. I don't know what you're talking about but I appreciate your kind words."

He patted on my shoulder and went back to his life. I watched him walking away and smiled.

I sat down beneath the stairs and watched the happy people. It was time to forget. I wasnt Lu Han anymore. I wasnt the CEO of this company. I wasnt the one who lived a life full of wealth. I was nothing but a homeless man. And that's okay.

I started to forget my old life , forgetting my family, my friends and my career. But I never forgot him. I never forgot the young man with the dark brown hair, with the muscles, with the bright blue eyes.

I kept watching him every day. I was watching him eating at restaurants, visiting nightclubs and even going to the gym. Sometimes I saw him with his friends and even with his girlfriend.

If only I could be him. I wished so bad to live his life. But I knew it wasn't possible.

The only thing I could do was watching him, every day and night,

This is a story inspired from some old stories I read in Tumblr

https://www.patreon.com/posts/swapped-at-old-122170587?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link

[svnnyd4ys]

INSIDE THE MYSTERIOUS CUBE x RICHARD SIKEN (except it's just Crush)

some of his quotes that are literally just Inside the Mysterious Cube core (feels very Bubbamiah centric but we love them) (never encourage me to do anything, because I'll never shut up) (would've included his other anthology, War of the Foxes, but Crush fits it so much better anways)

"Do you know how it ends? Do you feel lucky? Do you want to go home now? There's a bottle of whisky in the trunk of the Chevy and a dead man at our feet staring up at us like we're something interesting. This is where the evening splits in half, Henry, love or death."

"You saved my life, he says. I owe you, I owe you everything. You don't, I say, you don't owe me squat, let's just get going, let's just get gone, but he's relentless, keeps saying I owe you, says Your shoes are filling with your own damn blood, you must want something, just tell me and it's yours. But I can't look at him, can hardly speak: I took the bullet for all the wrong reasons." (this feels soooo pre!ITMC idk) (the way i can hear Sam saying "your shoes are filling with your own damn blood")

both from Wishbone in Crush!! more under the cut (not exaggerating, there's a lot, so good luck)

"Imagine my legs crossed, my hair combed, the shine of my boots in the slatted light. I'm thinking My plant, his chair, the ashtray that we bought together. I'm thinking This is where we live."

"We've read the back of the book, we know what's going to happen. The fields burned, the land destroyed, the lovers left broken in the brown dirt. And then it's gone."

"Goodbye. Goodbye. No more tears. I would like to see you all in Heaven." (i can hear AJ the president saying this)

"We are all just trying to be holy. My applejack, my silent night, just mash your lips against me. We are all going forwards. None of us are going back."

(snow and dirty rain)

"You can sleep now, you said. You can sleep now. You said that. I had a dream where you said that. Thanks for saying that. You weren't supposed to."

(straw house, straw dog)

"You're by the side of the road. You're by the side of the road, and you're doing all the talking while I stare at my shoes. They're nice shoes, brown and comfortable, and I like your voice. In the dream, I don't tell anyone, I'm afraid to wake you up."

(i had a dream about you)

"Tonight, by the freeway, a man eating fruit pie with a buckknife carves the likeness of his lover's face into the motel wall. I like him and I want to be like him, my hands no longer an afterthought."

"History is a little man in a brown suit trying to define a room he is outside of. I know history. There are many names in history but none of them are ours."

"It wasn't until we were well past the middle of it that we realised the old dull pain, whose stitched wrists and clammy fingers, far from being subverted, had only slipped underneath us, freshly scrubbed."

"His wounds healed, the skin a bit thicker than before, scars like train tracks on his arms and on his body, underneath his shirt."

(LITTLE BEAST (underrated fave))

"Tell me we're dead and I'll love you even more. I'm surprised I say it with feeling."

"I want to tell you this story without having to say that I ran out into the street to prove something, that he chased after me and threw me into the gravel. And he knew it wasn't going to be okay."

(the torn-up road)

"I will keep watch. I will water the yard. Knot the tie and go to work. Unknot the tie and go to sleep. I sleep. I dream. I make up things I will never say. I say them very quietly."

(meanwhile)

"You have never experienced anything this ferocious or intentional with another person."

"and he's singing to you, even though you don't know who he is."

"The heart is monologing about hesitation and fulfilment while behind the red brocade the heart is drowning."

"This is the essence of love and failure. You see what I mean, but you're happy anyway, and that's okay, it's a love story after all, a lasting love, a wonderful adventure with lots of action,"

"The train station blue, your lips blue, hands cold and the blue wind. Or a horse, your favourite horse raised up out of the mud and galloping galloping always towards you."

"You just wanted to prove there was one safe place, just one safe place where you could love him."

(you are jeff)

"You are going to die in your best friend's arms. And you play along because it's funny, because it's written down, you've memorised it, it's all you know."

(planet of love)

"Kissing degenerates into biting. So you get a kidney punch, a little blood in your urine. It isn't over yet, it's just begun."

(a primer for small weird loves)

[oatstheartificer]

The Blue Dwarf-

Prologue:

A soft, comforting voice broke the eerie silence of the captain's quarters as harsh bright lights flickered to life.

"Captain, it's time to wake up. We are approaching Sarah-5"

John slowly opened his eyes as the lights burst to life, giving a small groan. He sat up in his bunk and slid his legs off to the side, eyes still half closed.

"Annie-"

He mumbled, grabbing at his captain's badge beside him on the steel bed stand and groaning quietly.

"How close are we exactly?"

A small hologram of a woman, clad in what seemed to be medieval clothing appeared before him. Its green eyes and brown hair swaying in a non existent wind as it spread its hand wide, revealing a massive star map that covered his quarters in a pale green sheen.

"Approximately... one earth hour, and five minutes."

The hologram says, closing its palm. With that, the map vanished.

"Ah, good."

Grunting again, John stood up and opened the sliding cupboard he kept his clothes in, pulling out a very nice black suit and tie. He carefully slipped on the silky black pants, the tie, and finally the vest. Smoothing it down, he gave himself a look over. It still fit, even after all this time. Honestly, he was a little surprised with all that had been happening.

"Annie, how do I look?"

The AI- Annie, as it seemed to be called- looked over his suit and gave an approving nod.

"You look quite nice sir."

She said, her voice soft and comforting.

"Perfect. I want to look nice for her."

John patted his pants down before swiping his badge across the scanner. A soft hiss filled his ears as the bulkhead doors slid open to reveal a hallway leading into the rest of the ship. The lights dim, but not enough to hinder his vision. The perfect light level- and her favourite.

"And how is everything doing? Engines? Agricultural department? FTL drive?"

He asked, taking a step out of his cabin and falling into a brisk walk almost immediately. The sound of his shoes echoing down the halls.

Annie seemed to blip out of existence for a moment before returning to his side, walking on air besides him. It was always entertaining to see her mimic whatever he was doing, and somewhat comforting at times like these.

"All Nominal, though the engines seem to be working at 98.6% of their regular output."

John nodded along as he opened another bulkhead casually, continuing his quick pace after opening entirely.

"Well, I'll take a look at it afterwards."

Another hiss, but this time a room of greens and reds and whites, all fruits and vegetables. Well, all but one row of pure white roses, besides which were a colorful array of different flowers, in which John stopped and seemingly hovered his hand over them, deciding which one to pluck. His eyes wandered over all of them, inspecting each one for any flaws.

"Sir, I know today is important. But I also need you to know we cannot continue on our own for much longer. I am barely able to moderate all the systems by myself, and you cannot do every odd job around the ship."

Annie piped up, blinking as he swept his hand down and swiftly plucked one of the roses. Then another. And another.

"Mmm... I'll think about it. You know how I do with teams." He responded a bit gruffly, fixing one of the newly acquired roses onto his chest. The rest, he put together in a bunch and gave them a sniff.

"Though, you are right- how long have we been by ourselves?"

As he spoke, he slowly picked various other flowers, from purple tulips to sunflowers and added them to the small bunch in his hands.

"Approximately three and a half star cycles."

She answered curtly, watching him slowly fill out his hands with flowers.

John clicked his tongue as he tied the bottoms of the flowers together with some spare string he seemingly pulled out of nowhere, deftly tying it into a bow.

"In another time code please, you know I hate galactic standard."

Annie sighed audibly, even if she didn't have to. A habit she was picking up from her traveling companion.

"Seven earth years."

"That's much better. Hmmm. That is quite a long time- maybe you're right. I'll ask her. Do you think she'll like the flowers this year?"

He ponders, almost to himself as he exits the Agricultural gardens, fiddling with the bouquet of flowers.

"I'm sure she'll love them"

she responded softly, placing a non existent hand on his shoulder as they walked.

"I hope so. How much longer until we get to Sarah-5?"

He asked, tugging at his collar.

"About... five earth minutes."

Annie vanished for a moment again before returning, wearing a much more appropriate dress.

"I'll open the bridge viewing port"

John nodded and sat down in his captain’s chair, spinning it around to face the front of his craft as Annie slowly opened the viewing ports. Just outside, almost engulfing the ship in its massive blue halo, was a blue dwarf. It's soft hue coloring the entirety of the bridge blue, white corona's spiraling off into space with a fiery rage. Surrounding the blue dwarf was a harsh purple and red nebula, from which it had formed. The view was- stunning. Always left John speechless at first. But, soon he collects his thoughts and smiles, leaning forward in his chair.

"Hello beautiful. I brought you flowers, do you like them?"

The blue dwarf, of course, had no answer. It just continued to spew blue light and radiation. But John didn't care.

"I know, I know, I missed you too. Did you hear that Annie wants me to get a new crew? On the ship? I wanted to ask your thoughts."

Casually, he let the flowers slip into a small tube, ejecting them out into the cold vacuum of space towards the dwarf. When they made contact, there was a massive corona burst, shaking the ship violently.

"Ah, so you agree huh? Always nice to hear your thoughts. I wore my wedding suit this time. I kept it nice for you."

Again, no answer. But that was all John had to say, and said nothing more. Just sitting there, looking out into the depths of the star.

Hours passed, before Annie gently spoke up.

"Sir, we should head out. She'll go back into her gamma ray storm soon."

John sighed and patted down his suit, small flecks of dust floating to the ground as he did.

"You're right, you're right. Well, where's the nearest station?”,

He asked, turning to the controls.

[flashlight-sticker]

Day 1 - “Have we met before?”

Alistair cleaned the sink, swiping the drops of water off with a rag and sending them back down. The house was spotless today, the way it hasn’t been in a long time. Between his job and the volunteering he hardly found the strength or the will to properly clean up the place. The books laid all around, occasional cardboard boxes forgotten in the corridor, a bunch of documents that was used in the previous week for… some reason, an album on the table with the pictures scattered round after he finished looking through it, unwilling to put it back together.

Yeah, that’s pretty much how his flat looked.

But not today. Today it was licked spotless, meat baking in the oven, a table set.

Plates, knives, champagne glasses, all shining and ready.

He could hear the talking from his living room, his brothers sitting around the coffee table, guessing who is it that Arthur was so excited to bring over.

Well, perhaps “excited” is a strong word when used towards Arthur, but it’s the only fitting one. Arthur Kirkland, THE Arthur Kirkland, who was in his emo (or punk, whatever he called it) era just about last year, who claimed that love “is nothing but a series of chemicals” and “useless” has found someone. That someone, who filled half their conversations over the phone, that someone whom Arthur seemed to find in everything. And that someone was coming today.

Alistair dropped the rag into the sink, his left hand immediately flying up into his hair, rubbing backwards.

He had a bad feeling about all of this. This wasn’t gonna end well.

He let out a sight, closing his eyes for a moment, concentrating on the chatter in the living room.

He should cheer up. Arthur is bringing over a girlfriend… or a boyfriend, or whoever the hell he is dating.

A quick glance at the clock. Half past six. They promised to be here at seven o’clock, but knowing Arthur, they will be here in just about twenty minutes.

He better put on something more presentable.

***

Seamus opened two bottles of beer, handing one over to Alistair.

“They grow up so fast, hmm?” He threw the phrase at him with a knowing grin. Alistair scoffed in return to the century old joke between the two of them.

“Aye…” Alistair raced through his mind, forcing himself to remember some comeback he could possibly give back to his brother to keep the conversation alive “Back in my day lads didn’t have to do the whole ‘meet my family’ thing, because a man—“

Rrring…

The doorbell rung astonishingly loudly. The two exchanged glances and Alistair put his beer down onto the counter, its contents still untouched. He paced down the corridor, towards the door. One final look in the mirror. His shirt was ironed and his hair was laid out neatly (as neatly as he could get it). He absolutely resented the jumper Dylan made him wear, but couldn’t exactly oppose.

The key was turned, he pushed down onto the handle of the door and opened it.

The light from the corridor was partially shaded by Arthur standing in the doorway.

He was also looking prim and proper, his trench-coat finally cleaned, tie in place, shoes shining.

“Hello, Alistair.”

It was just then that he noticed that he froze for a moment. He stepped back, putting his hands into the pockets of his trousers, Seamus standing right next to him.

Alistair put on a smile, the best one he could manage and leaned against the wall in an attempt to seem casual.

“Hiya! Was the way here alright? The roads are awful busy at this time of the night!” he let out a huff that was supposed to be a laugh.

“We were alright” Arthur starting taking off his coat, slipping out of his shoes and then he came in.

Alistair felt his heart sink at the sight of blond wavy hair tied in a neat ponytail, the pastel colours of the shirt and suit, the thin and long fingers, the ever so slightly tanned skin and eyes, those blue eyes, as light as the sky on a sunny day, innocent and peaceful.

Francis.

“Oh, everything was great” he flashed Alistair a smile, his accent as evident as always and more endearing than ever before. “You shouldn’t worry!”

Alistair felt sick.

***

The introductions were over and everyone was sat at the table. Chatter filled the room, Francis being charming enough to fit in. He seemed oblivious. Oblivious to the fact that Arthur was eyeing his brothers with doubt and oblivious to Alistair.

He had barely spoken since the Frenchman came in, his uneasiness only heightening with each passing second. He was right since the very start. This thing wouldn’t end well.

He looked in the general direction where Francis sat, immediately catching his eyes. He smiled at him. At him. And Alistair couldn’t help but immediately hide behind a yet another glass of champagne.

He didn’t plan to get smashed tonight, but it seemed like fate decided differently.

He felt the champagne flowing down his throat, his cheeks heating up slightly.

Did he really not remember him? Did Francis seriously look him in the eyes and not recognise him at all? Did he not remember the time when they were dating? Yes, of course, it’s been almost ten years since then and yeah, Alistair changed quite a bit, but he couldn’t have possibly changed that much!

Alistair tried to imagine himself at the start of his geology course in University. Long hair, he was thinner and the bags under his eyes were much smaller. He didn’t have a beard. His face had much less frown lines.

Ten years… Perhaps it’s much longer than what he thought it was.

Looking at Francis yet again he understood that he didn’t change at all. He looked as young as before, his eyes didn’t loose their sparkle, he didn’t suffer from loneliness or constant fatigue. He didn’t age a day since the moment they parted.

A French exchange student. Half a year. The best half a year in Alistair’s life.

Could he really call it dating, through? Could be really say that they were in a relationship during that time?

No, it was a hookup. It was an affair, a time when they could release their needs, a time when they could simply give in to their desires.

There were no higher feelings in that.

There was no reason for them meeting up, other than letting themselves go for a night.

For Francis.

It didn’t matter for him, it didn’t mean much more than that to him, it wasn’t worth remembering for him.

But it meant the world to Alistair. And that world shattered when Francis promised to call and didn’t, when Francis promised to keep in touch and didn’t, when Francis promised to care and didn’t. When Francis left him without a care in the world.

“Oh, speaking about dessert!” he was suddenly pulled out of his thoughts by Dylan’s happy voice. “I bought a cake, Arthur’s favourite. Sorry, we didn’t know what you liked” he heard Francis hum with a smile on his face and forced himself to stay focused on the dialogue at hand, rather than the other time he heard Francis do that, his hair glowing in the rays of the rising sun, eyes half-lidded and sleepy—

“Oh, yes.” Alistair’s voice was low and he cleared his throat “I’ll go make some tea.”

He heard Dylan say something about him being ‘so considerate’, but it was somewhere far away, his mind filled only with how his numb hands were moving the chair away, pushing the door, grabbing the kettle, putting it on…

He heard the water being slowly heated by the gas stove and leaned against the counter, head in hands.

God, let Arthur break up with him.

God, let them not get along and don’t let this relationship progress any further.

It was a pain having to sit through a two hour dinner with Francis, what will happen if this goes on ? What if they marry ? Invite him to their wedding ? Adopt children ? Bring them over to Alistair’s for Christmas, exchanging pleasantries and be as oblivious to his position as right now ?! What will happen if Francis will be carved into his life, never available, but always torturously close ?!

Alistair wished for nothing but happiness to Arthur (even through it might not seem like it at times). But he wouldn’t be able to handle this.

The lock clicked.

He jumped up, whipping his head towards the door. And there he was. Francis.

“Are you feeling okay ?” He looked the slightest bit concerned, tilting his head to the side a little. Alistair’s right hand started shaking.

“Oh, aye. Aye, just a headache” he cleared his throat once again, wondering if it was suspicious that he did it so often and turned the gas off.

“Hm. Must be all the noise. Your brothers are very loud.” Francis stated with a smile, a soft blush gracing his cheeks.

Alistair scoffed.

“Yea. They tend to be.”

“Um…” he could see Francis shift from one leg to the other uneasily. “I was wondering… Have we met… before?” He could hear how uncomfortable he was, asking this question, his voice unsteady and eyes moved towards the wall in an unsure frown.

Alistair felt bile rise up.

He looked directly in front of himself, mind blank, eyes empty.

‘Have we met before…?’

He looked down onto the tea leaves slowly unwrapping in the kettle and felt bitterness flow through his body, wrapping around his heart.

‘Have we met before?!’

“No.” Alistair moved five cups across the counter, towards Francis “But I would appreciate if you took these to the living room” Francis smiled back to him.

“Anything for my boyfriend’s family to like me”

Clang of tableware, a wink, the door closing. And silence.

[fangirlingfromdownunder]

Creating Comfort From A Shopping Spree

Summary - Part 31 in the Comfort series

Pairing - Dean Winchester x Reader, Reader x Sam (platonic), Reader x Bobby (father-figure), Andre (OG Character) x Reader (best friends)

Series Masterlist | Masterlist 

Both Cas and Sam give you curious looks as you get up and go to your bedroom to get changed and then make your way to the garage. Taking the red car you make your way into town to the closest mall. You navigate your way through the aisles with a few stops in mind. Your first stop is a jewelry store. You look through the glass at the arrangement of fancy diamond rings glittering under the bright fluorescent lights. But you know they’re all too showy, so you go inside to explore their more subtle offerings.

A young saleswoman in a black dress and fancy jewelry comes up beside you. “Can I help you?”

“Yes actually.” You hold up your left hand showing off your engagement ring. “My fiancé and I are gonna elope and he asked me to pick up the rings.”

“Do you have some put aside or?”

“No. He trusts my judgement to pick them out for us.”

“Alrighty then. What style do you have in mind?”

“We’re definitely not showy people, just something plain, preferably pure silver for both of us.”

She pulls out a box full of silver rings, some with engravings and patterns and some plain. You choose a simple silver ring for each of you and Dean. Once you finish paying for them you stash the ring boxes in your pocket and head to the next store: a women’s formal wear store. You make your way through the aisles browsing through their range of white dresses looking for something that you can see yourself in. You brush past floor length gowns, short tight dresses and puffy ball gowns. You give up on the bridal section, finding it too fancy for your blood and start browsing through the bridesmaid and reception dresses instead. Your eyes land on a knee length white dress with a lace overlay, lace sleeves and a high lace neckline. Just to be sure you take it to the fitting room and try it on. As you admire yourself in the mirror you can’t help but smile. The dress itself fits well but your black sports bra ruins the look and you can see the outline of your dark underwear through the light fabric. You make a mental note to add another stop to your journey as you change back into your normal clothes. You pay for the dress and the cashier folds it nicely in tissue paper and packs it into a white paper bag.

You make your way to the next stop on your list: a lingerie store. As you walk through the doors and inspect the skimpy and sexy bras and g-strings you feel so out of place. You push through the feeling and make a bee-line for the selection of white garments. After another tedious deliberation you settle on a lacy white strapless bra and matching lace panties that cover enough for you to still feel comfortable and modest but are also sexy. At the checkout there’s a display with toys and condoms; you take a box of condoms from the display and place it next to the underwear and the cashier rings it up. Once you pay for everything you stuff them into the bag with the dress and head towards your last stop. On the way to the final store a shoe shop catches your eye. Your eyes land on a simple pair of white platform heels with ankle straps adorned with silver buckles. Deciding to go the full mile you ask the cashier to find them in your size and add them to your haul.

With no further distractions you go to a beauty parlour for your final stop. You ask for the full works: hair trim and style, wax legs and brazilian, mani-pedi, eyebrows and subtle make up. You decide if you’re going to do this you want to do it right. Knowing Bobby’s on his way to Dean, you call Bobby and ask him to fake a case and get Dean in a suit and tie. As you get in your car to head back to the bunker the feeling of dread fills your stomach. You know there’s no guarantee he’ll agree to your plan or even want to see you, but you try to push down the feeling and replace it with hope.

Back in your room you change into the new lingerie, put on deodorant and perfume, then the dress and shoes. Then for pockets, comfort and subtlety you slip one of the flannels Dean left behind over the top of your dress. You stow the rings, knife, gun, and a few of the overpriced condoms in the pockets and then walk out into the kitchen in search of Sam. You’re a little unsteady on the heels for a few steps but you eventually get the hang of it, focusing on your balance and executing each step perfectly. Sam hears the clicking of your heels before you even get into the room and meets you halfway with his gun drawn. His jaw drops when he sees you, along with his gun

“Wow!”

“Is that a good wow?” You ask.

“Ye-yeah, of course. I’m just not used to seeing you like this. So, what? You’re gonna try and sneak up on him in disguise?”

“Not exactly … I plan to get married. I’ve had this ring long enough, it’s time to act on the promise we made.”

“You think Dean’ll agree to that?”

“Not really, but I can be pretty persuasive.”

“You gotta let me come with you then. I can’t miss you and my brother’s wedding.”

“Fine, of course I want you there. But you stay back, let me talk to him alone first.”

“Deal.”

You nod. “Okay, Cas, where are you? It’s go time!”

You feel a breeze behind you and then sense his presence. You turn around to face him. He gives you a confused look and then reaches out to touch your forehead but you stop him right before he makes contact.

“Wait. One more question: as an angel of the lord can you marry us?”

He looks between you and Sam, confused. “You and Sam?”

“No. Me and Dean.”

“You’re already soulmates, your souls are tied to each other for eternity.”

“Then just humour me. Can you read the rites and do the ceremony?”

“It seems redundant in the scheme of things, but sure.”

“It’s really just a symbol. I want him back and I figure it's time to go big or go home. I need to show him how serious I am about us despite the new revelations and challenges.”

“Very well. Shall we go?”

Sam cuts in as you nod, “I’m coming too.”

Cas gives him an indignant look but lifts his fingers to his forehead also. A moment later you’re all standing outside a fancy hotel. You smile and shake your head up at the glass covered building.

“Figures. He knows I’d never look for him somewhere like this. Where are we? Hollywood?” You ask.

“Miami, Florida,” Cas says matter-of-factly.

“Definitely never would’ve thought to come here. He’s good, but not good enough. Which room?”

“He’s not here right now, but when I last checked he was in room 314. Third floor,” Cas says.

“Thanks. I’m gonna go in there and wait for him to come back. You guys go somewhere and keep out of sight. You can’t let him know I’m here before I see him.”

“Of course. Go, before he gets back,” Sam says. He gives you a quick hug before lightly pushing you towards the large glass doors.

You walk inside to the service desk. You hold your head high and put your hands on the desk confidently showing off your engagement ring.

“Hi.” You say trying to get the receptionist’s attention. She walks over to you. “Hi, I want to surprise my fiancé, we’re getting married this weekend. He’s in room 314, I’m just hoping to get a key.”

“I can’t give out the keys to any other customer's room.”

You pull out a $50 note and place it on the bench. “I just want to give him a pre-wedding gift. Please.”

She pulls out a key card with the number 314 printed on it and puts one hand on the $50 as she places the card on the bench. You take the card and let go of the note. You make your way up to his room.

Inside it’s exactly as you’d expected: a mess with mostly empty take out containers, pizza boxes, empty bottles, the sheets are strewn around on the bed and his dirty clothes are all over the room. With your anxiety on overdrive thinking about what he’s going to say, you’re unable to sit still. You start tidying up, putting all the clothes in a pile in the bathroom, you make the bed and stack the rubbish in and near the bin. By the time the room is neater you’re starting to sweat and mess up your hair so you turn the AC down and sit on the edge of the bed to cool down.

Eventually you hear the electric lock beep and the door knob click. You sit up straighter on the bed and quickly try to compose yourself.

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───

Tag list: (Leave a like or comment on this post or let me know below if you want to be added to the tag list for this series)

@bitchwitch1981, @muhahaha303, @justrealizedimmascifygurl, @mcdowell-123, @leigh70, @marvelsmarauder, @losa12308, @tapedeck-hearts, @luvjaida, @peachtxa, @ambearsstuff, @shadow-of-a-cloud, @slut-for-buck, @iprobablyshipit91, @sassy-pelican, @fallenlilangel99, @heavenlyhopeful0, @nelachu2423

[theshatteredrose]

Secrets: Best Left Untold? (Chapter 13) - Etrian Odyssey Untold 2 Fanfiction

AN: Sorry about the wait! I’ve been under a bit of stress lately, as you can imagine. I also have an appointment with my neurologist tomorrow, which I’m not really looking forward to T_T Anyway, I hope you enjoy reading!

Ao3 | Wattpad | Inkitt | FFNet

-

Chapter 13:

It took quite some time to calm down from the strange incident in, rather outside the tearoom. A lot of questions were asked, especially about the man’s description. Flavio gave the best answers he could, knowing full well how protective Fafnir could be.

He, of course, did not mention the little fact that the man might be responsible for the flowers or notes he had secretly been receiving. It was not the best time to have that little discussion. Not on the eve of the such an important social event. Truthfully, he was not sure how to bring that up to Fafnir. Wait until the stress he was under eases, that much was sure.

How ever long that could take.

That man had to be responsible for the flowers. Or notes. He had to be. He…could not NOT be, right?

He…did not want consider anything otherwise.

Hana was not happy about the broken window. Of course, she did not blame any of them, but she was displeased nevertheless. It was going to cost her money to fix or replace it, and it was something that needed to be done due to the cold weather.

Normally, Flavio and the others would immediately offer to help, seeing the issue dealt with immediately, but they had to get ready for the dinner.

Fafnir and Bertrand both wanted to find the knife wielding voyeur, but Hana reassured them that she would rouse the interest and protectiveness of other explorers that were residing within the inn. A smart move, honestly. A lot of guild leaders or just explorers in general were very protective of their guildmates, so they were sure to be cautious.

That reassured Fafnir somewhat, so it allowed everyone to take their outfit for the night and make their way to their rooms.

Flavio stepped into his room and instinctively locked the door behind him. He laid the large brown paper parcel holding his new clothes onto the bed. As he peeled back the paper, the clothing was revealed to him. The material was soft, and well-made, and appeared to be a deep midnight blue in colour.

Hm, a jacket, vest, white shirt, pants, a tie, a black belt, and a pair of dress shoes. Oh, and a warm winter jacket! He thought the parcel was heavy. But the jacket was very much appreciated.

As Flavio started to get change, he grew worried that Grisandole had altered his suit a little too closely, overestimating her own assessments. But as he slipped the clothes on, he breathed a sigh of relief when they fitted him perfectly.

Flavio spent a moment or two inspecting himself in the mirror, ensuring that everything was presentable. He did not look too bad, honestly. He was worried that the midnight blue colour would stand out too much, he preferring black to blend in with the others. But it should be fine.

He, however, could not help but frown slightly, noting how tight a cut the alterations were. And yet, he still had room to move. Had he always had such a narrow waist?

…Maybe he was a little bit on the skinny side.

The stress of the last week did not help in the slightest.

Flavio uttered a sigh as he grabbed the winter coat and slipped it on. At least the week of festivities was to end tonight, so he could begin to relax at the restaurant once more and not be rushed off his feet. Huh, now that he thought about it, when he was working, he kinda skipped out on lunch.

Whoops.

A sharp knock at his door pulled him from his musings and he quickly reached over to unlatch the lock, knowing full well that the person on the other side was none other than Fafnir.

Pulling back the door, Flavio’s breath immediately caught in his throat.

Fafnir stood out in the hallway, dressed in his tux, his white hair pulled back from his vivid red eyes. He had a hip cocked to one side as he pulled on a set of leather gloves. The black suit, made of a silky, durable material folded over each curve and muscle of his well-built body. The clothing accentuated his subtle but powerful muscles, but did not appear to hinder his movements.

He…was more handsome than Flavio had anticipated.

It took his breath away.

Fafnir finished fussing with his leather gloves and turned his attention toward Flavio. And his own eyes widened, his lips parting ever so slightly.

Flavio knew that he was blushing; he could feel the heat on his cheeks. No such thing adorned Fafnir’s face. No, the expression that appeared on Fafnir’s face was different. Yet it was similar to the one he wore back at Grisandole’s shop.

He…

Fafnir suddenly moved forward, his hands slipping beneath Flavio’s coat to rest against his sides. Flavio instinctively placed his hands on Fafnir’s arms as he stumbled backwards, his body colliding with Fafnir’s as he continued to move forward and pushed him back into his room.

Flavio stared at him; Fafnir’s eyes far more striking than they had ever been before. Dark, smouldering with an emotion he had not seen from him before.

He…?

Unexpectedly, Fafnir knitted his eyebrows together as he suddenly curled his fingers around Flavio’s waist. “Have you lost weight?”

Flavio squirmed under his hands as he tried to push them away. “Don’t you start.”

“I’m serious,” Fafnir continued, pressing his hands firmly against his sides. “You’ve always been thin, but you’ve definitely lost weight.”

Flavio sighed. Fafnir was not going to let it go. Nor was he going to be happy. “The last week has been very busy.”

“You haven’t been eating?” An accusation.

“I have.” An indignation. Before Flavio smiled sheepishly. “Just not lunch some days.”

Fafnir narrowed his eyes in disapproval.

Flavio raised his hands in a pacifying manner, while Fafnir’s own stayed firmly against his sides. “Hey hey, week of celebrations are over after tonight. I can go back to a normal routine. In fact, I think we can indulge a bit because of Christmas celebrations. What do you think?”

Fafnir leaned his face forward, so they were nose and nose. “Fine. This way I can ensure you eat something. Something more than curry.”

“There’s nothing wrong with curry.”

“There’s nothing wrong with eating, period.”

“I eat!”

“Hey, you two.”

Bertrand’s voice startled both Flavio and Fafnir. The door to his room was still open, allowing for the blond-haired protector to peer into the room with an arched eyebrow. Fafnir pulled his hands back, his fingertips trailing against Flavio’s sides, leaving him shivering and feeling inexplicably cold.

Flavio tried his best to ignore the feeling as he and Fafnir stepped out into the hallway to join their teammate. Idly pressing down his clothing, Flavio spent a moment taking in the sight of Bertrand in his own tuxedo.

In all honesty, he had expected to find the old man rather awkward in such social wear, with his slouchy posture and such. But it seemed he knew, or perhaps remembered how to pull that weary body of his into the best posture to carry a dark blue tux.

“You scrub up well, old man.”

“Yeah, yeah,” Bertrand replied as he rubbed the back of his neck. “Been a few years, but I remember my Ps and Qs. I hope the two of you are prepared to be bored out of your minds.”

Well, that was ominous.

Fafnir fidgeted with his tie. “Are we ready?”

“Just got to wait for the girls,” Bertrand replied and a wryly smile appeared on his lips. “Might have enough time to head to a bar for a drink or two.”

However, just as those words left his lips, the door to Arianna’s room opened. And Arianna swept into the hallway, her hands sophisticatedly holding the skirt of her dress.

In spite of himself, despite knowing just how wrong it was, despite knowing that the two of them were not rivals, were not competitors in any sense of the word, Flavio felt his heart drop when his gaze fell on Arianna.

A dress of rose petal pink, a delicate but warm white shawl to keep the winter wind at bay, her hair adorned with silver and gold accessories.

Elegant and beautiful. A true princess.

“Oh, sir Fafnir!” Arianna beamed and clapped her hands together in front of her, a delicate blush adorning her cheeks. “You look just like a gentleman!”

Fafnir had told him, reassured him several times that Arianna was like a sister to him, and Flavio believed him. But…there was always a chance that could change. Feelings changed all the time, after all.

Sometimes all it took was one conversation.

Or one dance.

“Is Chloe ready?” Bertrand asked.

“Oh yes,” Arianna answered. “We decided to get ready together.” She turned back to her room. “Dame Chloe, everyone is ready.”

Chloe shyly stepped out of Arianna’s room, her hands grasping handfuls of her dress in an anxious manner. Her pink hair, down around her shoulders in waves, was adorned with delicate flowers.

Yellow was a bold colour, but it suited Chloe very well. And melded well with her pink hair. Grisandole certainly knew what she was doing.

“Do I look ok?” Chloe asked bashfully.

“You look beautiful,” Bertrand replied in a fatherly tone, which earned him a blush from the young girl.

“Yes,” Arianna smiled fondly at the young girl. “Just like a Lady-In-Waiting.”

“Are we ready to go?” Fafnir asked.

After he received a chorus of affirmations, Fafnir led the way downstairs. They spent a few moments allowing Hana to fuss over them, acting like the mother figure she truly was. She could not help but focus on Chloe, though, which was only natural. Being close to the same age as her own daughter and with pink hair of her own, there was little doubt that she was envisioning Quinoa being all dressed up and going to a ball.

Outside, a carriage awaited them.

Arianna immediately slipped her arm through Fafnir’s, looking much like the princess and her loyal knight.

Flavio swallowed back a bile of jealousy at the sight. It was only natural. A princess and her knight should stand together. It would draw attention, and perhaps even the ire, of the gentry if they did not.

Right?

It was going to be a long and anxious night.

Steeling himself, Flavio followed everyone as they headed outside and entered their awaiting carriage. As they settled themselves in their seats, Arianna took the time to explain to them the briefs ins and outs of a society dinner.

There…were a lot of rules, but she stated them so fluently. It should not be a surprise. They were, no doubt, drilled into her since birth.

Bertrand accepted the rules, while Fafnir had his nose scrunched up in a sign of disgust. Flavio had to bite back a chuckle. He had better stay on his toes. Fafnir had developed a great dislike toward authority figures and being confined to a very restrictive set of rules. He would not take too kindly to someone chiding him.

The Grand Duchy was far different during the night than it was during the day. That was to be expected, however, with the decorations having been raised in honour of Lady Gadriel’s birthday. The bright, golden lights of lanterns and chandeliers bathed the grand building in an almost ethereal glow.

The excitement, and Flavio’s anxiety, grew as their carriage joined the long line of others on the main road leading into the main hall, where the party was to be held.

Finally, it was their time to step out. Fafnir was the first to slip out and presented their invitation to the attendant. Thankfully, there did not appear to be any issues as the received an immediate welcome.

Fafnir helped Arianna from the carriage while Bertrand helped Chloe. While Flavio hopped out last.

It was naturally that the four would pair up like that. Father figure Bertrand to Chloe and Fafnir for Arianna because he was, after all, her knight. It still made Flavio feel as though he was the fifth wheel out of the group, as it were. The one who was out of place.

Yet, as they moved to join the throngs of other guests, Fafnir purposely turned from Arianna and pressed his hand against the small of Flavio’s back and guided him to join their little group. Ensuring that he joined them and was not left out. As if he had, somehow, read his thoughts and wanted to prove him wrong.

Hm. Or, perhaps, he simply sensed his anxiety.

As the stepped into the large, grand ballroom, Flavio was grateful for the reassuring hand against his back. There were a lot of people. All of the gentry, if he hazard a guess.

Yikes.

The night was quite cold, so Flavio chose to keep on his winter coat. Many others chose to do so, from the look of things. And wisely, both Arianna and Chloe chose to keep their shawls close. With their dresses, as cumbersome as they were, he did not imagine they offered too much warmth.

“Oh, I am ever so glad that you were able to attend.”

The regal and feminine voice immediately drew their attention. From the crowds of now whispering and staring quests, Lady Gadriel and Minster Dubois made their appearance. And soon joined them.

“But of course,” Arianna responded. “We could never miss an opportunity to join you in celebration of your birthday.”

Lady Gadriel laughed softly. “You say such kind words.”

They left it to two ladies to do most of the speaking. They clearly got along far greater than anyone else. Until…

“Excuse me, my lady, we have other guests that require your attention,” Minister Dubois stated.

Lady Gadriel smiled politely, though it was somewhat…strained. Tired even.

She had endured a week of greetings and congratulations. Anyone, princess or duchess, was sure to be tired of the continuous meets and greets. And Lady Gadriel was sure to rather be in her library, researching, than meeting with people she barely knew. Or possibly even liked.

Being a noble or royal was not all it was cracked up to be.

“You have to excuse us,” Lady Gadriel said. “I do hope you enjoy yourselves.”

The two then disappeared within the crowds once more.

It was a shame that the very reason for such a grand party could not actually sit down and enjoy herself. Were all social events the same? Seemed incredibly stressful.

“Oh, Sir Fafnir, your tie is crooked.” Arianna pushed forward and began to straighten and tighten Fafnir’s tie and smoothing down the collar of his jacket.

Fafnir did not look remotely comfortable or pleased. That suit, the situation, the rules of high society – it was just all too restrictive for him.

Luckily it was just for one night.

“Sir Fafnir, as my knight, such events are a part of my everyday life,” Arianna continued. “It is perhaps best you become accustomed to wearing such clothing.”

Flavio hands balled into fists abruptly by his sides. But Fafnir was only to be a knight until they were done with Ginnungagap, right?

Right?

“Why don’t we check out the finger food?” Bertrand suddenly suggested, his arms folded loosely across his chest. “I wouldn’t mind a drink or two. Something to get me through the next few hours.”

Arianna immediately hooked her arm through Fafnir’s once more. “Yes, allow me to show you the proper way to attend to the antipasti, Sir Fafnir.”

She then dragged him off, leaving no room for argument. Bertrand turned to guided Chloe to the same. And Flavio was left to his own devices. Again.

Probably for the best. Maybe he could find a corner to hide in for a while. Until the night was over with.

As he walked through the gatherings of guests and party-goers, Flavio could not help but pick up random pieces of their conversations.

“That is Princess Arianna’s knight? Hardly suitable.”

“A man like that will be tough to tame.”

“Yes, but he’ll be broken in eventually.”

“Indeed. They all are.”

Flavio had to resist the urge to spin around in search for those who uttered those words. They sounded so haughty and ominous. And degrading! They could not possibly be serious!

A hand suddenly grasped his and Flavio found himself pulled to his left abruptly. He almost tripped over his own feet, yet miraculously managed to stay standing. His whole body tensed as he instinctively looked at whoever it was that had snared his hand in a tight, yet not painful grip.

A pair of distinct emerald green eyes stared back at him.

Mandelson.

Flavio…should not be shocked to see him. Mandelson was a Viscount. He would be invited to such a prestigious event. But he stared back at him in shock, nevertheless.

A polite, yet wry smile slipped across Mandelson’s lips, amused by Flavio’s reaction to him. He tightened his grip on his hand and raised it between them. “Dark colours truly suit you.”

He then did something wholly unexpected; he leaned down and pressed his lips against Flavio’s knuckles, effectively kissing the back of his hand.

In spite of himself, Flavio blushed. It was not the first time the man kissed the back of his hand, but did he really just do that at a social event? In front of who knows how many people from the gentry?!

Who saw that?

“I had a feeling that you and your guild would be invited,” Mandelson stated. “You are, after all, the Grand Duchy’s pet guild.”

A frown immediately tugged at Flavio’s lips and he sharply pulled his hand back. “I resent being referred to as ‘pet guild,’ I’ll have you know.”

Mandelson arched an all too amused eyebrow at him. “Resent it as much as you like, but what other title could be given to a guild that has been all but gifted to the granddaughter of the Minster and guests of honour by Lady Gadriel herself?”

Wait, guests of honour? Yikes, more pressure added to the evening, thanks!

“Regardless, we worked hard both in and outside the labyrinth,” Flavio continued, trying to remain firm. “And the restaurant is doing just fine, and will with or without our name attached to it.”

Mandelson almost snorted, which would be wholly undignified, but caught himself at the last second. “So, her earnings are enough to sustain herself?”

“Well, no…”

“Ah,” Mandelson unexpectedly smirked, as if he had scored a point somehow. “So, she’s taking money from your guild to fuel her own ambitions while making you gather all the ingredients, handle the advertising, and public relations?”

…Damn it. Scoring points against Regina, was he? What did he have against her? Did he know her personally or something?

“Do you have a grudge against the Dubois family?” Flavio asked before he had the chance to reconsider.

It was a legitimate question because, sheesh, he held a grudge against someone.

Mandelson tilted his head curiously to the side. “I hold no concerns what that family does.”

“Then why-?”

“I know what families like them are capable of,” Mandelson interrupted, his eyes unexpectedly darkening and his jaw tightening. “Using people as tools, pretending to care to keep the public appearance of benevolence, while repeating the same mistakes. Repeatedly. I have seen it far too much. It is playing on repeat in front of me. With you.”

Flavio fell silent as he looked at the other man, his own curiosity peaking. He had seen that expression, heard words similar to those back at the restaurant only a few days ago.

Anger. Protectiveness. Pain. Frustration.

Something similar had happened to him or someone he loved in the past. Perhaps that someone was his wife. The very one he had lost only recently. Just six months ago. And it was something he did not want to happen again.

He did not want to happen to Flavio.

And that reason? It was all because Flavio looked like his deceased wife.

Flavio must truly looked remarkably like her. But he was not her. As endearing as his protectiveness might be, he was not Mandelson’s wife. He was never to be her replacement. And he was not being used and abused, like he believed or feared. The week of celebrations was over. He could return to his life of an explorer.

His life was nothing like Mandelson was presenting it to be.

“Master Mandelson,” a new voice interjected. “You have matters to attend to.”

Mandelson’s eyes narrowed slightly as they darted quickly to his right and a frown fleetingly appeared on his lips. His expression swiftly smoothed out into one of professionalism as a man, one with salt and pepper hair pulled back into a ponytail held at the back of his neck, a monocle nestled in his left eye, and dressed in duds that were like that of a butler, joined them.

The man, clearly older by a few decades, looked impassively over at Flavio. His eyes wandered over him, lazily looking him up and down. Clearly unimpressed. Or his face habitually stoic. Either way, he simply turned his attention back to Mandelson.

“This way, My Lord.”

“Yes, yes.” Mandelson sighed, annoyed with the other man. But he managed to smile toward nevertheless. “Until we will meet again, Mr Flavio. Perhaps we will share a dance later tonight, hm?”

Flavio felt himself wince. “Perhaps not. Fafnir is protective of me. He’ll make a scene. We do not want this.”

Mandelson did not look pleased. “…Very well.”

He hoped that meant Mandelson would not pursue him anymore that night. “Thank you. Have a good evening.”

Flavio turned on his heel, intent on walking away. Only, Mandelson was not finished speaking with him.

“You are Fafnir’s loyal companion, but that is all you can ever be. With a princess in the picture, no one will allow otherwise. You must accept that. For your own sake.”

What…?

He spun around, not sure why, perhaps wanting to demand what he meant. The words were bait. They had to be. Mandelson and his companion, however, had blended in with the rest of guests of the dinner party. Nowhere to be seen.

Just as he had intended, no doubt.

Mandelson was…a very strange man. He claimed to be protective, but his words…they seemed intend to bring thoughts of indecisiveness and pessimism. To cast doubt upon his choices, and upon the motives of his companions.

He…

“There you are.”

Flavio jumped, startled by Fafnir’s voice. He turned around, half expecting to find him with the rest of their companions. Yet, he stood alone. And did not appear all that happy.

He…did not see him with Mandelson, did he?

[5groomstylingmistakestoavoi]

5 Groom Styling Mistakes to Avoid on Your Wedding Day

One of the most significant days of your life is your wedding, and making the most of it by looking your best is essential. Although the bride usually receives the most of the focus, grooms should also feel fashionable and self-assured. Nonetheless, a few typical styling and grooming errors can ruin your special day. If you stay clear of these mistakes, you'll feel confident and look great as you walk down the aisle.

1. Ignoring the Fit of Your Suit

Wearing a suit that is too small is one of the worst things a groom can do. A poorly fitted suit, whether it's too tight or too loose, might make you feel uneasy and unprofessional. In terms of comfort, self-assurance, and appearance, a well-tailored suit may make all the difference.

Solution: Ensure that the dimensions of your suit are precisely measured. Your jacket, trousers and sleeves can all be adjusted by a skilled tailor to guarantee a flawless fit. Never undervalue the importance of a personalised fit. To make sure everything is perfect, from the shoulders to the cuffs, it's worth spending money on adjustments.

2. Forgetting to Factor in Comfort

Although maintaining a professional appearance is crucial, comfort is as crucial. You'll probably be wearing your suit for hours on end on a wedding day, so make sure it's comfortable for you to move and breathe. Your day can be swiftly transformed from pleasant to dreadful by wearing tight shoes, a collar that is too tight, or clothing that doesn't breathe.

The answer is to put comfort first without compromising flair. Make sure your shoes are broken in before the big day and pick breathable materials like wool or linen mixes. Make sure you can sit, stand, and dance comfortably when trying on suits by moving about. Be sure that the waistband is not too tight and that the collar of your shirt is not too tight.

3. Choosing the Wrong Accessories

Any groom's style is completed with accessories, but if you choose them improperly, they can make or ruin your ensemble. A cluttered look might result from over accessorizing, while an incomplete look can result from under accessorizing. Every element, from your pocket square, watch, and cufflinks to your tie or bow tie, should complement rather than overpower.

Solution: Maintain elegance and simplicity. Typically, all you need are a bow tie or traditional tie, a pocket square that goes well with your suit, and cufflinks that express your personal style. Keep your watch subtle if you're wearing one; after all, your wedding is about you and your partner, not a showy timepiece. Make sure your accessories complement the main ensemble without drawing attention to themselves.

4. Overlooking the Importance of Grooming

You want to look your best from head to toe on your wedding day. But while you're preoccupied with your suit, it's simple to forget about personal grooming. Small grooming aspects, including skin care, haircuts, or facial hair, can significantly affect how you look overall.

The answer is to schedule a grooming appointment well in advance, whether it's for a skincare regimen, beard trim, or new haircut. Before the big day, make sure your facial hair is well-maintained and styled. You should also take care of your skin and nails; moisturise, cut your nails, and hydrate to seem put together and renewed.

5. Choosing a Look That Doesn't Reflect Your Personality

Wedding apparel is heavily influenced by tradition, but it's crucial that your personal style feels true to you. Whether it's due to external pressure or an attempt to fit in with a certain theme, adopting a style that doesn't suit your own tastes is a common mistake. You can feel awkward and out of place as a result.

Remain loyal to who you are. Make sure your wedding dress expresses your individuality, whether you want a traditional black tuxedo or a more laid-back, contemporary style. The goal of your wedding day is to celebrate your individuality and sense of style, therefore there is no one-size-fits-all approach to groom attire. Choose a well-fitting jacket or even a tailored suit if you enjoy a more laid-back style. Think about distinctive accents like a tie clip that reflects your personality or a monogrammed cufflink if you want to add a personal touch.

Conclusion

You deserve to feel fashionable and confident on your wedding day, which is about celebrating love. You'll look and feel your best on your special day if you steer clear of these frequent styling blunders, which include bad fit, uncomfortable fabrics, excessive accessorising, disregarding grooming, and not sticking to your own style. Keep in mind that a well-tailored suit will not only improve your appearance but also provide you with the self-assurance you need to create a memorable big day.

[asmithclothiersusa]

What Are The Essential Items For Formal Mens Wear In Greenville, SC?

Do you know that proper dress-up can make you feel comfortable? It's essential to dress formally and meet the expectations of the occasion. It shows respect for the host and other guests. Do you still think of what to wear in the office or any other party? Or how can you wear formal mens wear in Greenville, SC? Don't worry if you need help deciding what to wear; here are some essential formal wear components for men to invest in and keep in their wardrobe. Here are the five essential items you should consider for any occasion.

Five Essential Items For Formal Mens Wear In Greenville, SC

There are so many options that you can take advantage of. When you get ready for any party or office, here are five essential items you can have when you get ready in formal wear men in Greenville, SC. Still Confused? In this article, we will discuss the five items you can match with your dress and make you comfortable on every occasion. Please continue reading to know more!

1. Footwear

Your shoes play an essential role in your whole dress-up. That's why your dress's first and most essential part is your shoes. Try to buy comfortable and lightweight shoes so that you can feel comfortable. You can select the color according to your dress. For example, if you wear a black suit, black shoes will look so good.

2. Suit Jacket

Nothing is better than the suit jacket or coat you wear. You can have it in any mens formal wear stores in Greenville, SC. It enhances your overall look and personality. If you are going to a very formal party, a dark suit will look so elegant on you. So always try to wear dark suits at formal parties.

3. Long Sleeves Shirts

Choosing a formal shirt is essential but doesn't have to be complicated. Some say it's the most significant part, while others say it's easy to select because it's usually concealed under the suit jacket. You don't have to buy the most costly shirt; confirm you have the right one. Please keep it simple; you need everything with all the fancy parties.

4. Tie

When choosing a tie, check it with your outfit, not the other way. Men should have many ties. Ties come in different colors and designs. For formal mens wear in Greenville, SC, events, stick to neutral colors and avoid weird prints. Make sure the tie fits you well.

5. Hairstyle

Hairstyle is a vital part of your body and can enhance your look. So remember to set your hairstyle because it is the central part of the party's face. If you are bearing a new haircut, it is better to cut your hair 2-3 days before your formal event. It will glance nice.

Follow The Steps And Enhance Your Formal Party Look!

You should follow these steps for formal mens wear in Greenville, SC. It can enhance your style from hair to feet. But that doesn't mean you go and buy expensive clothes. It would help if you only bought things that are in use. You can connect with A. smith clothier for the best collection of formal clothes. Moreover, you also don't need to go anywhere for the accessories; they have everything you need. So visit their website and enhance your look for formal parties.

[ayejayque]

How men should dress up for a corporate setting

Confidence would ooze out of you if you dress wellIn most companies around the world, employers expect their staff to dress according to the established decorum. If one dresses well, his/her pleasing personality will add to the culture within the organization. Expensive suits are not meant to be worn to work every single day.The basic dress of a crisp white shirt and well-stitched black trousers can also work wonders for you. Dressing up according to the culture of the company is referred to as corporate dressing. Casual dressing is highly discouraged. If you are well-dressed and well-groomed, it will reflect your positives on the whole organization.Some basic tips and tricks for men to dress well at the workplaceMen’s color palette vis-à-vis corporate dressing is limited to shades of blue, grey, khaki, white, and black. Do not wear party wear to the workplace. Avoid bright colors or patterns that are two over-powering to the eye. Pastel shades always work well in the office.Plain, solid-color shirts are always encouraged but you can expand into avenues with stripes, checks, or even smaller checks. Very bright shades of red, yellow, purple, orange, etc. are not preferred for the workplace.Polka dots, repeated motifs, and half-sleeve shirts are not advised to be worn to work. Full-sleeved shirts are always formal for the workplace. Your sleeves should not be short or long – they should rest on the base of your arm, where it joins the wrist.Avoid the habit of rolling sleeves to work. The trouser should also fit you perfectly. Too loose and it looks shabby. Too tight and it looks bad to say it mildly. Flat-front pleat-less trousers in the men’s color palette work best in the office. Your shirt should fit you well. Well enough so that you can button the collar without any visible loose gaps. At all times, your attire should be neat, clean, ironed, and preferably wrinkle-free.In one of my earlier blogs, I mentioned that shoes are the second thing a person notices in a man. Face being the first. Never forget to polish your shoes. Also, keep a shoe shiner with you at the workplace. Go for black, brown, or burgundy shoes. Casuals, sandals, and sporty shoes are out of the equation when dressing for work.Very large necklaces or flashy kinds of bracelets are a big no for me at work. There is room to wear only one ring, which is your wedding band. Keep in mind that there is a vast difference between your life as a student and your life as a professional.In your student life almost everything was ok, be it tattered jeans or a t-shirt, or even sporty shoes. The earring has to be removed. If you wear an earring, remove it immediately. Piercings on your body and tattoos are just not adequate in a work setting.If you sport a mustache, trim it neatly. Do not attend office with a beard or stubble of hair on your face. This may be relaxed in case of an emergency.A tie is your personal statement that compliments your overall look. Silk and paisley are preferred materials. Avoid wearing ties with abstracts on them or even with bright loud colors or overpowering patterns. The tip of your tie should reside on the top of your belt buckle.Your hair should be neatly made up for a look that is apt for the workplace. Short and manageable hair is advised at all times.Never wear an overpowering perfume or aftershave. It is no point announcing your arrival at the office with a very strong scent.Don’t chew gum at work. It gives an impression that you are just not too serious about work at all. Secondly, it gives out an unprofessional message to the onlookers.Avoid hippy-style two-tone or flashy belts at the office. The belts should be black or brown simply to go with the color of your shoes. These days it is easy to find a reversible belt that houses both these colors.A fat wallet and your keys create an unwanted bulge that looks unpleasing to the eye. Avoid it. Read the full article