#the sweetest beat

[cocomanga]

The Sweetest Beat - Set 4

Pairing: Megumi Fushiguro x Fem!Reader,

CW: Daddy Kink, Praise Kink, Size Kink, Oral, BDSM, Unprotected Sex, Edging, Drunk Sex, Aggressive Sex, Overstimulation, NPD Abuse/Trauma, Intense Feral Megumi.

READER DISCRETION ADVISED: HEAVY Noncon/Dubcon Please DO NOT proceed if that triggers you. Yes, I'm so extra. Ha! This is the Megumi I want to royally f*ck up my life honey. I couldn't find him in fics so I created him myself. Brace yourself.

Note: please block me if my work is not your cup-o-tea. I do not own any of the character art Please respect my blog art.

Reader is encouraged to listen to music mentioned for context :)

Total WC : 15K

Wanna take it from the top? Start at Set 1🎶;)

<< The Sweetest Beat - Set 3

The Sweetest Beat - Set 5 >>

TSB - Masterlist ~ AO3 | Wattpad | Playlist

Synopsis: Megumi Fushiguro is the leader of a fresh new rock band. They're currently playing covers and gaining a following at an alarming rate, skyrocketing his career as an indie artist. But when his best friend introduces him to a beautiful someone and sparks fly, he's challenged to navigate her fear of loving freely.

..... Minors: You have no business here. Love you, but please don't ....

▶ SET 4 Your Interlude – Sabrina Claudio Lung - Vancouver Sleep ClinicPrototype – Andre 3000 Lippincott - Animals As Leaders The Pretender - Foo Fighters Smile Like that – Esperanza Spalding Closer To Me – H.E.R. Double Back – Coco Jones I’m not OK – H.E.R. Thinkin Bout You - Frank Ocean Love You Like I Do – Vancouver Sleep Clinic Fall In - Esperanza Spalding

The office gave off a bit of a chill, with the exception of the body heat between Megumi and you. Most of the time no one was present there at this hour. The atmosphere was tranquil. Still and quiet, pierced through by the sound of the radio he always kept on in his office, the volume turned down extremely low for white noise, playing a familiar song:

Your Interlude - Sabrina Claudio.

The two of you rested peacefully together in these early hours of the morning, in one of his most precious spaces, somewhere important to him.

Megumi had awakened just before dawn, gently tugged out of the depths of his slumber by his consistently wandering mind. Even as he rested in his subconscious, his body, delightfully disoriented, reminded him that things were somehow not the same today.

Today, there was something very different. Something special.

You were there with him. Lying peacefully next to him. The warmth he felt was reminiscent of his childhood, waking up to a gift on Christmas morning. Your beautiful presence by his side.

You were his. And finally, in the most intimate way, completely relaxed and perfectly … vulnerable.

There was no denying how much he liked you. And yet, as of right now, unfortunately, this is a complicated position for the both of you to be in. On mornings like this, Megumi had a hard time.

His body seemed to have a mind of it's own and, of course, he preferred to tame it by something much warmer and softer than what he alone possessed.

Now, this time, he finally had someone. Someone soft. Someone sweet. Someone nice, warm, and cozy. Comfortable. Safe. Someone he truly not only wanted, but needed.

And it’s you. You’re his.

As he peered toward you, and his eyes adjusted to the dark, the shape of your face slowly came into view as slivers of light peeked through tiny openings in the thick drawn curtains. He turned his body toward you, on his soft, comfortable sleeper. It had been about six hours since you both passed out, and he couldn’t be happier to see you here, still next to him.

It felt as if it had taken so long to get you here. You are so beautiful to him. And somehow he could never get enough of you.

I knew I’d always want her. From the moment I saw her.

As relaxed as he is, Megumi’s a special type. The passionate type. The dominant type. The … insatiable type.

After taking time away from you, after getting a taste of you and you disappearing the way you did… last night? That wasn’t enough. Not even close. And seeing you like this? It was only a trigger. A trigger that quickly fired off another round in the barrel of his ravenous nature.

His heart beat heavily in his chest as his gaze rested on your sleeping face. His blood quickly warming in his veins as he took in the perfect image before him that he was sure to record in his mind. He wanted to always remember you like this. And the way he fiercely desired you. He hadn't quite told you. He wanted to show you.

I hope she knows what she’s gotten herself into…

Lung - Vancouver Sleep Clinic

began to play as you lay there, quiet and pretty, the blanket pulled over your back, your hair in a ruffled mess, strands twisted softly in random directions across your face and his arm as he lay next to you.

Your lips slightly parted, your breaths soft and slow, interrupted by tiny murmurs as your head rested comfortably on your forearm.

Megumi’s gaze hovered at your face, his desire stirring inside him, the desire to feel you all over again. To touch more. To taste more.

He gently pinched the blanket and pulled it down slowly, sliding it off of your back as he watched the fabric rise and fall over the outline of your body, unveiling your beautifully smooth skin, the side of your bare breast just barely revealing your nipple as you lay on your belly, his eyes riding each and every one of your curves like waves as they traveled up and down your body.

So fucking pretty.

He reached his large, calloused hand over toward you, his fingertips grazing across your supple skin, it's texture soft and smooth. Your tiny flinch and sleepy moan at his touch, and the contrast against his hand arousing him all the more.

His lids fell halfway over his eyes as he took in the sight of you. He couldn’t help but lean in and kiss your soft shoulder which curved upward into your arm as it supported your head.

She still smells so good.

He inhaled deeply as he pulled the blankets down more, his temperature rising steadily with every extra inch of your body that his eyes could see, until the blanket was completely removed, revealing you in all your beautiful splendor.

Megumi had a tendency to get what he wanted. He never felt the need to speak much, because he’s confident in his value. Not overly confident, but… content. If he ever had something to prove, he had no issue doing so, simply by existing at his best, which was usually excellence. That consistently got him where he needed to be.

Anything it seemed he couldn’t get, he accepted as just not being meant for him. It was what he believed in. Getting shit done meant not being complacent, not settling. Doing what’s required.

He always felt that obtaining something truly meant to be, something he needed, was a sustainable responsibility. And you, you were absolutely something… no… some one he needed.

You were his next greatest accomplishment. Not only an attained goal, but him reaching yet another level of greatness in his life. He recognized greatness. And YOU were it. Precious. Amazing. He had no reason to desire less. He wanted someone as great as you.

Many of the people he regularly met were … abrasive to say the least. Personalities riddled with anger, disregard and ulterior motives, with the exception of his band and his best friend of course. The people that seemed to travel through his life always just wanted something. To attach themselves to him, or to somehow control him to get what they felt they needed.

But not you.

From the very beginning, your frequency was high. A genuine disposition on a wavelength of kindness, your voice a gentle vibration, and a level of humility that he rarely ever saw.

Your sweetness was like an addiction to him. It dripped from you like honey, and he could smell it on you like a starved grizzly.

Ever since the first night the saw you, He craved you. Constantly.

I need more. Right now.

You stirred as he carefully lifted your hips, pushing a pillow underneath you, just enough for him to gain access.

One more should do it.

Your body was completely limp as you lay there, unconscious.

He positioned himself behind you as he sat on his knees between your thighs, one of your knees propped up around the pillows, the other leg straight. He could see between them, but only just a little. He was unable to view your entrance clearly, let alone get inside without moving you a bit more.

His heart thumped faster each second as his hooded dark blues traversed up and down your legs. Your smooth, beautiful legs, leading up to that pretty round ass.

Megumi hovered his entire body over yours, leaning into you, his hands resting on each side of you in the position of a push up, his face nestled into the crook of your neck, pressing his chest softly into your back. His arms held him up as he inhaled your scent, nuzzling into your neck with his eyes closed, planting soft kisses in different areas of your nape and shoulders.

Haah… she drives me fucking crazy.

His hardness pressed firmly between the soft cheeks of the tops of your legs as he exhaled. His face and lips followed the curves of your back as he slid down lower, lifting a hand to slowly trace the outline of your body, pressing lightly against the sides of your breasts, gliding down to your waist as he peppered your back with kisses, strands of his hair following the patterns his lips left behind.

He reached your thighs, leaning his face in between your legs, dark blues staring into your center … that sweet peach that he gets to taste, hopefully now, as often as he wants.

Megumi began to recall that night he sat in this very room, gawking into his computer at you as you were in an entirely different country, slinking around on a bed that he couldn’t join you in.

How many times had he replayed those images in his mind? The sound of the moans you made echoing in his head, torturously audible as he visualized you touching yourself, calling out his name.

How many times had he revisited that moment in his mind as he lay alone in his bed, his cock pressing against the fabric of his boxers, swelling and aching for you to the point he had to free himself of the strain, the pain of it swelling, begging desperately for release that he had no choice but to grant himself?

How many times did he need to stroke it hard to make it soft? To tame it as it’s stiff, angry head leaked when he thought of you, that sweetness that dripped from you like honey, your beautiful body. Your sensual voice. Your big pretty eyes.

You seemed so untouchable then. So far away. He wondered when, or if he’d ever get the chance to see you like this again.

And here you are.

He won't let you go again. You tried it.

And if you try again, he'll stop you.

He'll stop you every time.

… she’s mine.

He gripped your thighs, spreading them apart as you laid there, unconscious. His dick twitching at the sight, his bottom lip disappearing into his mouth.

I want… just a little taste…

Megumi slid his hands upward from the middle of your thighs to your ass. He squeezed, eyes filled with lust, observing how the stretch of your skin caused your entrance to spread open just a bit, your pretty folds blossoming like a flower. He leaned in squeezing a bit more, biting his lip, gawking at your tiny hole, wondering how he ever fit inside.

His breathing became heavier, his body tingling as a hard line formed between his eyebrows. He was growing more ravenous.

She's so fucking hot.

His eyes dart up toward you, checking to see if you’re awake.

He hissed, feeling his dick pulse, begging for entry. His brows wrinkling more as he gripped your thighs, pressing your legs open and his thumbs in, pushing outward, spreading you even wider.

He flicked out his tongue, pressing it between your folds, dipping it into your hole softly as to not startle you awake, rotating it in tiny circles as it inched further inside with each small circle, then closing his lips around it with soft kisses.

As you lay on your belly, he kissed your clit, then slid his tongue up to your entrance, pressing it deeper inside your heat, then trapping the fleshy layers between the tender part of his lips as he sucked.

He repeated each pass again, kissing your clit, licking up to your hole, plunging it inside, sucking your flesh. Again and again, opening you wider each time. Your taste driving him nearly mad.

He remembered how that night, the first time he touched his tongue to your lower lips, how sweet you were. He couldn’t wait to taste you again. He could devour you every day and never get tired.

He remembered how he damn near desperately wanted to submerge his entire body inside you and bathe in your nectar. His cock throbbed almost painfully at the thought.

Megumi moaned against your core, his pulse quickening, his thoughts growing foggy from your intoxicating scent as he licked you like candy.

He used his thumbs to widen you even more, bringing your opening more clearly into view. He was now rutting his tongue inside, thrusting, pushing harder, desperate to go in as deep as possible.

He flicked it against your gummy walls, blissed out on your flavor.

His dick jolted eagerly, calling out to you. He reached down, holding it in a tight grip, as if telling it to wait its turn while he lapped up your juices with his tongue.

You stirred from the commotion, feeling strange sensations in your sleep. Your body tingling, tremors starting and stopping in intervals.

“Mgh!..” … Is it a dream?

You thought

She’s gonna wake up

He thought

Ah … she’s fucking delicious. “Mmgh” N-Need to get inside...

“Mmmh!”... you moaned, stirring even more, half asleep.

Your eyes rolled around behind your lids, tiny moans escaping your lips as Megumi continued, keeping his screaming cock at bay as his mouth fucked and sucked on your sex.

He noticed your squirming, your hair tossing around as you writhed.

He kissed you one last time on your glistening pussy, then hovered his face up over it. He held you open with a semi-strong grip, he coated his tongue with saliva, opened his mouth and watched it fall, glazing your opening.

“Haaah fuck”

He leaned into you, his hard body over yours, his solid muscles flexing as he propped himself up with his arm, his hair falling over his fiery eyes as he looked down at your face, your eyes still closed.

He reached down, gripping his thick, hot, angry cock in his hand, pressing the tip into the wet mess he'd made.

He pressed in a little harder... his eyes fluttering, then flicking up toward your face as he waited for your reaction.

"Mmm… So tight…"

You moaned, and whimpered… a little louder than before.

He pressed in harder. Slowly…

You stirred more. Your eyebrows scrunched, “mmhh!”

what… “ahh”... what’s happening?

Harder still, halfway in, he let go of his throbbing cock, rock solid, and needing very little assistance going forward. He gripped your inner thigh, opening you up even more.

His darkened eyes watched you move around, his other arm gripping the sheets against the mattress next to your head for more leverage as he rocked his hips, thrusting his big dick further inside you, your gummy walls clenching around him.

Pressing deeper still... Megumi couldn’t contain his own whimper as he sank into your tight, hot, wet, cunt.

“mmmhh.... ~Megumi!”

Oh my god… He feels so good! “Ha-ah…”

He’s … so fucking big.

You could feel him shudder with every stroke, your voice riling him up even more, his steady rhythm wavering as he fought the urge to go over the edge, dying to cum inside you and fill you to the brim with his seed. He gripped your hips with a constraining hold so tight you’d think he was afraid you’d get away.

He’s so strong… that will... leave a mark...

He leaned in further, pressing his chest against your back, sucking hot pink blotches onto your neck and back as he continued to slide his length slowly in and out of your slick heat.

He’s… marking me… branding me.

Megumi propped himself up by his elbows as he grinded his hips slowly into you, savoring every inch of your passage that his length covered, his hands fisting into your hair after gently brushing it up off of your back and neck with his fingers.

His tongue feather-light as it glided along the line of your neck behind his wet kisses, sending shivers up your spine.

He groaned as his long shaft pumped slowly in and out, your bodies flush against each other, while he continued to color the skin on your nape with soft sucking motions, realizing you were fully awake by now.

“Can’t run from me anymore...” he hissed into your ear.

He was completely drunk on your pussy, steadily growing more feral. His body trembled, goosebumps pressing out against his skin as his dick dragged along the gummy walls of your tight heat.

More… fuck, I need more of her.

His hitched breaths wafted over your neck as he thrusted, his shaft disappearing even deeper into your core, reaching desperately for your sweet spot. “ha-ah wake up pretty girl.” his deep, raspy voice cooing directly into your ear, the warmth of his breath wafting down your neck, his jet-black hair tickling the side of your face.

“Ngh! … Me—gumi! You… you feel so good baby.” You whimpered into the pillow as your body trembled beneath him.

The feeling of him exploring you, his hands, his soft hair, his beautiful face, his deep dark blue eyes gazing over every part of your body in every secret place, his long, hot cock filling your insides, his deep sexy voice… every touch, look, or piece of attention you receive from him never failed to have you melting into slick hot puddles.

His words, and at the pace he was moving, felt so amazing, tears pricked at the corners of your eyes as you relaxed, your combined vibrations gliding beautifully along the same wavelength.

“That’s my girl”. He purred, still holding you tightly in his grasp.

You lifted your waist up a bit from the pillows, granting him easier access to you as your face mushed back and forth, your lips parting as you gasped, eyes still closed, letting him do whatever he wanted with you.

Megumi responded, releasing your head, snaking his hand down curving it around your thigh toward the front, pausing his thrusts as he began massaging your clit with his middle fingers, the sharp sensations causing you to jerk his length even deeper inside you.

Your moans became even louder, your body entranced by the feeling of this man’s meticulous ministrations.

Megumi’s thick hardness throbbed deep inside your sweltering heat as it jerked and pulsed into you all on its own. The weight of his body held you still, forcing you to take everything he gave you.

Megumi pushed out a low grunt, then hissed softly into your ear. He pulled out slowly, just a bit, then pushed back in to the hilt. “Haah... fuck, you feel so good.”

You couldn’t help but moan his name. “M~Megumi!” as you held in your release.

“Who's pussy is this, love?”

“Megumi's.”

“Ngh…” he buried his face in your neck. “that’s right… Now, I need you to go ahead and cum on daddy’s dick.”

He pressed in one last time before lifting the weight of his torso off of you, pulling you by our waist from the pillows, spreading your thighs wider with his knees.

He tightened his grip on your hips as he flattened one of his hands against the small of your back, sliding it up to the middle, pressing it down.

You responded with a deep arch, feeling his length press inside you, impossibly deeper.

Your belly felt it’s absence as his heavy shaft pulled slightly out of you, then back in, over and over as he began to move faster, thrusting and squelching and pumping in and out of your soft hole.

His mind went dumb and his mouth gaped open as he rutted into your sex, sweat dripping, muscles spasming, blissed out as he ravished you, hitting your sweet spot with every thrust, beating and beating as your soft walls massaged his length.

Your chest and head pressed deeper into the mattress as Megumi’s hands firmly grasped your hips, drilling himself into your core.

His eyes rolled back with his head as his face turned toward the heavens, the euphoria of being inside you taking over his being. “Haaah…so wet … aaah! … you make … me … fucking… crazy” he beat harder, deeper, pounding relentlessly as he felt himself peak…

You whimpered as your arms stretched out wide, your hands tightly gripping the sheets around you, “Nghaaa! … I’m.. Ugh! I'm cumming baby! …” your entire body convulsed even as you climaxed, clutching him fiercely, the sound of skin on skin slapping, echoing throughout he room.

As Megumi felt you coat him, soaking his cock in your sweet cream, he doubled over, continued to fuck himself into your messy center, his tip kissing your cervix until every drop of his hot cum was milked from him, filling your hole to the brim.

You both rode out the high, moaning together, his chest rising and falling as it pressed into your back, his hot tongue making more long strokes across the back of your neck and shoulders.

Megumi had seared himself into your body.

And god, you loved how it burned.

*~*~*~*~*

Work was tedious, and as demanding as usual.

Mr. Geto took full advantage of your abilities, as well he should, since you had more than proven your worth at this gig. However, after that last work trip you took, it seemed to be much easier for you to work up the courage to ask for compensation whenever you were expected to stretch your self thinner.

“Would you be willing to go on another one?” Mr. Geto asked as he walked into the breakroom where you were filling your mug up with your 3rd cup of coffee.

“Another… What?” you asked, pouring in cream and sugar.

He closed his eyes and flashed you a huge fake smile, jokingly. “Another work trip of course.”

“Oof…” you said, raising your eyebrows as you nearly burned your mouth on the scorching hot coffee. “Maybe hire some more help?”

“I could do that… or you could get that bag” he quipped.

You chuckled, “Touché sir. Tch”.

“Hey, look, why should I train another group right away when I have one that’s more than capable right here.” He held out his hands, shrugging his shoulders.

“I get it, but the few of us can only do so much. Have you had any other employees train for this position?”

“I have, actually. We worked together for a while just before I transferred here. His name’s Sukuna. He’s a powerhouse. Great work ethic but kind of a hard ass. He’ll be coming by this office next week.”

“Well that’s a relief. Hopefully he’ll work well with our team.” You said, with a slightly concerned look in your eyes.

“I’m sure he will. I’ll keep you updated on the details. See you later.” Geto waved as he walked out of the breakroom back to his office.

You waved back, relieved that you’ll get a break from his overwhelming expectations, but hoped a brand new leader in your department wouldn’t cause any issues.

You decided not to worry too much about it, especially since you were able to trust Geto to take care of his team.

“Three hours left” you sighed, on your way to your desk. “I’ll be glad to get back home.”

*~*~*~*~*

You walked about two blocks from your work to the train station.

The air was crisp outside, as the temperature began to fall slightly below usual. You could feel the chill just underneath the breeze, welcoming Autumn, your favorite time of year where the leaves graced the ground in their fiery shades and tints of reds and yellows.

You stood at the edge of the platform as you watched your train approach. You took out your earbuds and popped them in, playing

Prototype – Andre 3000

Thoughts of Megumi began swirling around in your head. You never seemed to have to wait too long before your mind was filled with him. Your life, and everything in it seemed easier to manage now that he was a part of it. That was a warm feeling, but one you had strangely never known before.

The way he seems to lift the weight of the world from your shoulders was far too easy to become addicted to.

It was as if you had drifted off into an alternate universe. A universe where the people who made you happiest existed.

This wonderful, adventurous life, this one, is the one you had been looking for. The one you had been longing for.

After all, it was a life you were building for yourself. You had Nobara, Yuji, and now, you could say you had him. He had practically shown up out of nowhere. Unexpectedly, and spectacularly.

Your warm heart skipped a beat in your chest as you relaxed into your seat. You held your head down, the metal grinding against the tracks piercing through to your ears past your music, while flashes of Megumi's dark blues burning through your eyes sparked into your head.

Neurons fired in your brain, triggering a tingling sensation that spread throughout your body to your core as you blushed, recalling his touch, his intensity, and the way he just took you.

You periodically snuck quick glances up at the strangers’ faces on the train, hoping no one had noticed that deep blush on your cheeks as goosebumps peaked on your skin, and you pressed your knees together.

Everything Megumi was made him unbelievably desirable, especially to someone like you. Someone who desired to be taken.

You knew that this environment, this … atmosphere, between you and him, especially considering what has already happened, was like fertile ground. Fertile enough to cultivate whatever brooding emotions were lying dormant in your soul.

What better companion to share them, to nurture them with than him? Someone like-minded, who shared your interests, desires, and tastes... someone extremely compatible with you.

The train screeched to a halt, snapping you out of your daze as you smirked to yourself while rising from your seat. You jostled through the heard of people leaving the train, headed up the stairs, emerging out of the hole in the ground and started on your journey a couple blocks from the station back home.

Megumi had taken you home that morning, waited for you while you got ready for work, and had given you a ride there, considering how much energy he'd drained from you the night AND morning before.

“It’s the very least I can do” he said, with that cute smirk. He had come up for just a second without coming inside, to grab a copy of your track so he could listen in the car while you got ready.

You can still remember how you felt as he gazed at you, leaning his head on the back of his seat while he assured you he’d be there waiting for you when you’re done.

He was all over you now. In your life, in your head, and in your heart, and you welcomed him.

As amazing as it was, It still felt strange to think you were so much closer to being an item. And even more strange to know that your feelings for him had been turned up to a level you’d never experienced before.

With this knowledge, there was one thing for absolute certain. You needed to maintain a distraction to keep your anxious attachment at bay. This was yet another “thing” for you.

Thanks a lot dad.

Trusting yourself to keep a healthy distance was a tall order, unfortunately. Needless to say, your past relationships had more than reflected that. It wasn’t something new.

Of course, you were talented and pretty, so it wasn’t like you couldn’t have ended up with a guy at some point if you really wanted to. A guy isn’t the same as your guy though.

It’s this one. He is the one you want.

Unfortunately, it was that part that scared you the most. It often felt like the one you want always got away somehow. Your clingy nature had betrayed you more than once, and you refused to allow it to fuck you over again. You had worked out a way to fight this. Kinda.

You’d decided to take your time, to relish him, living in the moment, enjoying him for who he is right now, staying as grounded as possible. That’s as good as it gets for now. Nothing is set in stone, so it’s best to relax and just be mindful.

Megumi’s beauty, his inner beauty and outer beauty was as clear as crystal. Yet it was also quite obvious that thinking he was perfect was far from reasonable.

Life is life, and you’re only human. It was only a matter of moments, minutes, seconds, before you crashed headlong into one or more of those things that make him tick, those things that you have no idea are there until they show up. Inevitably present in either him, or you.

It was great and all to run into someone who seemed to be a perfect match, but you understood that you were just as deserving of greatness as he is, so you vowed to yourself to maintain your grip, but a loose one.

As you reached the door of your apartment, a vibration rattled inside your bag as you shuffled through all the junk in it to find your phone.

“Hey girl!” Nobara’s bright, cheerful voice was a refreshing welcome, blossoming through your heavy thoughts.

“Hey! What’s up girl?”

“Where you at?” she asked.

“Literally just making it home from work.” you opened your door to your quite messy place, things strewn about everywhere from this morning as you hurried, trying not to force Megumi to wait forever for you to get ready.

“It’s been a few days since we talked. How did everything go with Megumi that night? Are you guys, ok?”

You took a deep breath, plopping down on the sofa. “More than ok. He’s…” you looked up toward the ceiling, closing your eyes as you searched your mind for the right word to describe exactly what you were feeling about him. “…satisfying”.

Nobara’s smile slowly spread across her face. Genuinely happy to hear the contentment in your voice. “Wow.” She chuckled, “Glad to hear it honey.”

“Yeah. Thank you so much. For everything.” You said to her, loving the fullness and warmth in your heart.

“Of course. You know I love you. I’m here for you girl. I really am happy for you. You deserve this.”

Your smile seemed to spread even wider at her kind words. “The vibe is just so... nice. I really don’t wanna screw this up.”

“You won’t. I’m willing to bet that you can’t even if you tried.”

Your brow furrowed a bit as you processed what she said. “What do you mean by that?”

Nobara huffed, “Well, I don’t think that would be the case if you were someone else… Someone with low morals, or if you were a jerk or something. But you’re a sweet person.”

She continued, “What do you think I could do, as a real friend, that would cause you to never speak to me again?”

You squinted a bit, pondering. “Um… nothing really... outside of killing me. Which would suck.” You chuckled.

“Uh yeah! See?” She said. “If he’s yours, he’s yours.”

You giggled “so profound, professor!”

“Hey, I’m just saying.”

“Nah, I get you.” You smiled, “I suppose you’re right.”

“So… on another note, I wanted to let you know, someone texted me, asking where you were after you left me.”

“Who?”

“Your dad.” She replied with a snarky tone.

The heavy sigh you released seemed a little too loud. “What did he say?”

“He just asked where you were. Said you didn’t answer when he called. I assume he might've had something important to talk about since he called me. You might wanna ask.”

“Hmmm…” you frowned, “That’s weird. I didn’t see a call or text from him. Okay, I’ll reach out. Thanks for letting me know. How is Yuji doing?”

“Tch. As sweet as ever. I’ll be seeing him a little later. Probably you, too right?”

“Um… Yeah, sure?” You didn’t know what she meant by that, since you hadn’t planned anything but figured it was a general statement.

“OK cool. I’ll call you later.”

“Okay!”

“Byeeee!”

*~*~*~*~*

You hopped out of the shower feeling refreshed, having had a small meal since you weren’t that hungry. You decided to text your dad to see what he wanted, opting not to call. If you did, it was highly likely you’d end up listening to him talk for hours.

You: Hey dad. Nobara told me you were looking for me?

Dad: Oh hey daughter! I couldn’t get a hold of you at the time so I thought maybe you were with her.

You: Oh, ok. Whats up?

Dad: I have a show to do, I wondered if you had some free time to sing backup for me.

You: I’m not sure. Can you send me the details for the event?

Dad: Ok I will!

You: Ttyl!

You set the phone down on the couch next to you, slightly confused at the sudden request. It was really strange for him to ask this now, since it had been so long since you’d worked with him. The first thing you thought was that he must have had a contact fall through, or someone quit.

That was typical.

He wasn’t exactly kind to his singers. Not all of the time. Especially if he was comfortable with them or under stress. Whenever something was off, or if they got a note or understanding of something wrong, he could be pretty mean.

You figured it was a good chance for you to get your feet back into the water though. Of course Megumi is guilty of inspiring that in you. Maybe you should just warm up the old chords again.

Just then, your phone vibrated again. Speak of the hottie.

Megz: wya

You: Hey. Home. Whats up?

Megz: Come to rehearsal.

You: Really? What time?

Megz: About 6?

You: At the studio?

Megz: Yup.

You: K… See you there.

Wow. You could feel your entire body beam. A rehearsal?

So exciting. You wondered what he's like in his element, what he’d look and sound like bossing around his band mates, and now you get to see what could be an entirely different side of him.

This is his work. His livelihood. And he’s sharing it with you. Just as before, you felt like he was opening up his world to you. Inviting you to be a part of it with no hesitation. It was nice.

But what about Maki and the guys? You wondered if they’d be just as comfortable with you all up in their space like that.

Not to mention how ridiculously nervous you were about letting him hear your track. You’d talked about it before, briefly, but you were thinking since he’d played it in his car, he could just give you a quick, useful critique or something. But he hadn't mentioned it.

God forbid he plays it in front of anyone else.

Oh my god, I’ll die… he wouldn’t do that.

You couldn't help but feel a bit uneasy since, in your experience, studios are obviously the place where new music is heard, rehearsed and perfected.

He’d better not. Seriously, Megumi. Please don’t.

You mumbled to yourself as you plugged in an Uber ride and got ready to go.

*~*~*~*~*

You arrived at the studio around a quarter after, hoping you wouldn’t walk in on an important part of a song and interrupt something.

Your body was filled with curiosity and nervousness, especially considering the last time you were here, Megumi was fucking the life out of you. In his office no less. Your eyebrows wrinkled as a shudder went through you at the thought of it.

Embarrassment also crept through each of your nerves as you approached, the sound of their loud instruments and Choso’s voice vibrating in a muffled cadence against the windows and door as they played

The Pretender - Foo Fighters

Which would be performed at their next show.

You grabbed the handle pulling it open, and to your surprise, Yuji and Nobara were standing in the doorway to the control room from the foyer, hanging out as the band played behind the glass shield in the live room.

Your eyes brightened, your nerves relaxing a bit as you approached them with a smile and an excited gleam in your eyes. “Heeeey!”

“Told you I’d see you later.” Nobara beamed back at you as you sauntered over toward her and Itadori.

“I had no idea until Megz invited me! I’m so glad to see you guys!”

“Ah I see.” Nobara giggled. “Made it a surprise huh?”

Your smile lit up the room. “Hey Yuji!”

“Hey sweetheart. How’ve you been? You’re glowing like a new moon!” He replied.

“Oh my god… Am I?” You questioned with a frown, rolling your eyes, your hands swiftly moving to cover your face.

“Uh… yeah?” Nobara added, the contagion of your smile reaching her first. “It’s a good look on you.”

Itadori huffed, “Yeah, you look pretty happy”.

You nodded, your lips pressing into a thin line as you blushed toward the floor.

Itadori’s smile also widened as he observed you attempting to hide the heavy pink in your cheeks.

You elbowed him as you leaned in, pushing his arm playfully. “Gimme a break, guys.” You murmured.

Yuji wrapped an arm around your shoulder, squeezing you close to him as he kissed you on your head. “I’m happy for you, babe.”

You caught a glimpse of Megumi watching you interact with your friends as you turned toward the glass window that allowed a clear view into the opposite room where the band played.

Your lips disappeared into your mouth as you made eye contact with him, and quickly averted your gaze as the pink filled your cheeks even deeper than they had a moment before.

As usual, Megumi’s eyes remained locked on to you, staring for what felt like far too long, smirking at your adorable shy face, granting you a quick upward nod before finally drawing his attention back to the guy next to him, who was apparently directing him.

Your heart thumped heavily in your chest. He made you feel like a love crazed schoolgirl. You continued to peek into the room where he sat at his kit as the guy you didn’t know talked to him, then turned to look at you, smiled, then turned his attention back to Megumi.

You were struck with curiosity and overwhelm as you observed the atmosphere, which felt was completely different compared to the last time you were there.

Obviously, more people and instruments were present, and the entire place, was lit up. Apparently Megumi had two kits here, one in the large main area of the studio, and one behind the glass where they recorded.

The band was back there with him going over their process, deciding which parts to replay. The director was apparently a guest producer that Megumi used as a neutral party to help him get everything recorded since he spent most of his time on that side of the window with the band.

Considering Megumi’s level of talent, and his high standards, the guy had to be just as excellent at his job, if not, better.

They all played their hearts out, as per usual, while you, Itadori, and Nobara sat quietly on the couch in the “control room”. The place looked beautifully professional. And … expensive.

You’d had plenty of experience working in different studios across the city, and understood many of the nuanced practices of performing, laying down, and mixing tracks in ones similar to this, but you could tell that Megumi and his family put a lot of time, energy, and money into this place.

You remembered what he’d mentioned before about bringing people here. You couldn’t imagine not monitoring and/or scrutinizing every soul that set foot into these rooms, let alone trusting them to begin with on the outset of inviting them here.

There were multiple mixing boards in the control room, computers, a couple guitars, and two keyboards. In the live room was several electric guitars, two acoustic electrics, two electric bass’ AND every band member was inside the “live room” holding an instrument.

There were multiple professional microphones including the ones in the isolation booths, as well as foot pedals, speakers, amps … you could go on. It was nuts.

There was money everywhere in here, and it was clear that every instrument was obviously used, yet close to pristine.

The room you sat in was comfy, which had a couple couches and a coffee table for guests, away from the music as to keep you from disrupting the recording.

It was amazing. You felt so special, being granted the opportunity to see this amazing band’s process, like being let in on exclusive content. It was only a matter of time, only a little time too, until they hit it big, and you could say you were here, at their beginning, witnessing even the hiccups and re-dos, and all the times they created something spectacular right on the spot.

The guy Megumi talked to was on his way out of an isolation booth, which was attached to the control room you were in. He was handsome, had a great vibe, and a warm smile. They seemed to get along really well. Megumi even smiled a lot more with him.

“Who is that guy?” you wondered, whispering to Yuji as you watched their interactions.

“That’s another one of Megumi’s good friends, Ino.” Yuji answered. “He also went to school with them, but graduated a year before Megumi left. He studied music production there and has a studio there also.”

“Wow.” You huffed, “No wonder”.

“No wonder what?” Yuji asked, hearing you thinking aloud.

“Oh, um, I was just thinking, ‘no wonder Megumi works with him’. He must really know his stuff.”

“Yeah for sure.” Itudori agreed. “You already know. Megz doesn’t play games when it comes to his work. Ino’s the same way.”

You couldn’t help but smile, watching him direct his attention to Maki and the others while twirling his sticks around between his fingers, as Ino now addressed the entire band.

He’s such a fucking badass.

… “God he’s hot.”…

Nobara’s eyes grew wide as she turned over to you, her mouth gaping open as she started to laugh.

“Oh, shit did I say that out loud?” you gasped as you covered your mouth with your hand, giggling.

“Girl, you are so funny!” She chuckled, rolling her eyes.

“My bad, I was just thinking and it slipped out!” You smirked. “He IS though… shit! I can't fucking contain myself!” you whispered, biting your lip.

Just then, Ino sauntered over to the mixing board interrupting your girl’s moment with the most serious, yet confident look on his face. “Hey there” he smiled, looking directly at you as he sat in the fancy swivel chair in front of the soundboard.

“Hey” you said, still giggling a little.

“I’m Ino.” He held his hand out to shake yours.

You shook his hand, gladly introducing yourself, excited to meet yet another extraordinary person, courtesy of Megumi.

“You’re coming out after this right?” he asked, turning toward the board as he tweaked a few knobs.

“Out?” Experiencing a little déjà vu, you asked, “out where?”

“Yeah,” Nobara agreed. “Time for another gathering” she expressed with a jump of her eyebrows. “Aaaand this time, I’m not wasted.”

“Yet.” Itadori interjected.

You let out a quick chuckle. “So where’s the meet-up this time?”

“Of course you don’t know.” Nobara added. “We’re going to Megumi’s”.

Your heart just about jumped out of your chest. All this time, you and Megumi had still not seen each other’s places.

Well, he saw the outside of yours that morning he walked you out of here and drove you home so that he could take you to work, but he didn’t come in. He said something about it being your personal space and he didn’t want to invade it until you were ready.

Damn charmer, right?

You’ll see his personal space now. Yet another one of his personal spaces. But with your friends… and his band… so… it wasn’t like… he was making it personal for you.

Your mouth hung open a bit as you processed the idea of being in Megumi’s home. Where he sleeps every night. Where he rests his head. I mean, you definitely didn’t want just anyone wandering around in your personal space, and knowing Megumi, he didn’t decide to invite just anyone over on a whim.

His selection is always curated. Just as it is for you. And it wouldn’t be a far fetched notion to presume he had instruments there, too.

You now understood how he felt about coming into your place. But this was … fun. Exciting.

You glanced over at the clear window into the next room where he sat, only to see him, yet again, staring over in your direction. It was as if he was waiting for your reaction to the invite.

Maki called him after a few moments, ripping his gaze from you. He looked over to see what he needed just as Ino was instructing them to finish the last song.

“Ok one more and then we’ll hear the new song.”

“New song? They’re doing another one?” you asked, curious.

“I dunno.” Nobara answered.

You were actually pretty excited to hear it, hoping it was one of the originals they've been doing. It was, the one you walked in on Megumi playing the last time you came here.

Lippincott - Animals As Leaders

They all laid it down perfectly, even Choso took part even though it was an instrumental, wrapping up that ridiculously complicated song.

“Okay, you’re up”. Ino said.

You looked at him, then looked around as if there ware another person near you that you didn’t realize was there.

“Excuse me? Are –” you looked over at Yuji then at Nobara, “are you talking to me?”

“Yup” Ino said with a little smirk.

“Up?” You squinted, “Up for – what exactly?”

“Why don’t you go talk to Megz for a sec?” he replied.

You looked over to Megumi as he simpered toward you.

You’ve got to be kidding me…

All you could think was ‘this sure as hell better not be what I think it is’. He wouldn’t do that, right? Reality hitting you as you got up to go talk to him.

What the hell were you feeling? You decided it was definitely fear, mixed with some other things… you looked over to Nobara for some understanding, mouthing the words “what the hell is going on?” confusion showing up all over your face.

Yeah, that’s what it was. The extra feeling was frustration. Maybe even anger. But you weren’t sure how to place it yet so you decided not to panic.

Though that was crazy, since you were walking into a live studio with a boatload of professional performers in the middle of a place you’ve only been in once to fuck the greatest man you’d ever known.

What the hell?

You creeped over toward the door, Megumi sitting at his kit behind a shield. Maki, Toge, Yuta and Choso were all in this room as well, chatting amongst themselves while you nervously approached Megumi, freaking out.

“What is going on?” you whispered to him, genuinely confused, but also scared as hell.

“Don’t be mad.” Megumi said as you approached him.

“What?” You replied, looking around feeling like you were the last person to know what was happening.

“I just… I let Inumaki hear your track, and he agreed to play it for you. I was hoping you’d sing it while we’re here.”

“What?! Are you kidding me?” your eyes were like a deer's in headlights.

“You can say no. I promise, its ok… I just … I was hoping you’d just let me master it for you.”

You hid your face in your hand, hoping the gesture would make you completely invisible. “Yeah. I’m gonna have to pass.”

“Please… let me take care of it for you?” His voice and expression was so sincere it almost pissed you off.

“Megumi…” you whispered, a little louder than necessary, but with a nervous smile. “Out of nowhere like this? You didn’t give me time to prepare or anything. I didn’t even know you were having rehearsal today until last minute!” You finished with a grimace as you turned your face toward him so only he could see it.

“Are you sure? I mean, Ino can just…”

“No Megumi.” you interrupted. “You said I can say no,” your eyebrows raised as you looked around the room, leaning further in to him, whispering, hoping no one could hear you. “… so I’m saying ‘no’. this feels too forced. I don’t like it.”

Megumi’s big dark blues looked down quickly at his sticks, then back up at you as they squinted slightly, a small grimace forming on his lips. “Okay.’

“Can we please talk about this later?” It was as if you could feel all of the eyes in the rooms on you and him.

“Of course.” He answered, his voice barely above a whisper.

You turned on your heels, and walked back to the other room, to your spot next to Nobara, your lips pressing into a straight line as you approached the couch, sitting down slowly and leaning in to her, extremely embarrassed by that interaction.

“Is everything ok?” Nobara asked, a troubled look on her face.

“I think so… I’m not sure.” You answered with a small frown, feeling as if the room was closing in on you.

Ino looked over to Megumi who actually, for the first time, appeared embarrassed himself. His face taking on the appearance of a child who had just been scolded. He maintained that look of serious thought as he stared down at his sticks for a moment, his brow furrowing a bit.

He glanced up at Toge, who appeared to be waiting for his queue from him. Megumi quickly, almost unnoticeably shook his head, then turned his attention to Ino, who apparently understood.

“Well, um… Okay then.” Ino continued. “Let’s listen to the last take of the first song again, see if you guys are ok with it, and I think we’re done.”

*~*~*~*~*

As you sat, processing what had just happened, you remembered you had to find out from your dad about his event.

Happy to have an excuse to escape from the tense environment, you excused yourself from the room to call. You noticed there was poor reception on the phone inside the studio. Only one bar displaying the closer you moved toward the front door.

It now made sense that your dad couldn’t reach you before, since you came here after meeting with Nobara that night when you missed his call.

You gave him a call, tapping the green button just as you reached the front door. It was fine though, as you had no desire to cause any interruptions in their performance.

“Hello, Daughter.” Your dad chimes in, sounding quite cheerful.”

“Hey. How’s it going?”

“Do you have time to chat?”

“Sure.”

“Thanks for calling. Our performance is this Saturday. I was hoping you could perform your song with us as well as background on songs you already know. We’re having a quick rehearsal with the band tomorrow night.”

“Saturday? And tomorrow? So soon...”

“Well, you might have guessed, someone quit on me.” He ended his statement with a loud hearty laugh.

“Oh. Uh… Well… I have a show that I’d already planned to go to this Saturday.”

“Our performance is early in the day. It’s for a wedding, so I can’t delay it or find anyone else soon enough to replace them.”

“Oh… well… okay. I think I can manage that, as long as it’s ok that I leave by 5.”

“Yeah! I’m doing the reception also that evening, but you don’t have to be there for that. Just the wedding, since they requested that one specifically.”

“Sounds good. Where is the rehearsal going to be tomorrow?”

“It’ll be at my house. And you may not need to stay for more than an hour or so.”

“Okay”

“Are you at a show now? I can hear music…”

“Well, I’m actually at a friend’s studio right now.”

“Really? What friend?”

“You don’t know him. I met him a few months ago. He’s a great a–”

“Hey I’m gonna have to go I’m sorry, I was supposed to be back thirty minutes ago. I’ll talk to you later, ok?”

Figures.

“That’s fine. I’ll talk to you tomorrow.”

As you gripped the phone in your hand, you lowered your arm to your side as it swung like a pendulum. You rolled your eyes, taking a deep breath then closing them, turning your face up toward the ceiling.

Par for the course with him. The second you begin speaking about anything that doesn’t revolve around him, he’s completely uninterested, or has no time for it. It would be so nice if he’d care about or get involved in your life. Just a little.

You noticed the sound system on low as usual in this main room, the foyer of this studio as it played

Smile Like That – Esperanza Spalding

You suddenly hear the door open. Nobara walks over to you quietly, with an odd sense of urgency. She grabbed your hand, turning you toward the door.

“It’s time for you to come back inside” she said, as she let go of your hand while simultaneously turning the knob.

You entered the room, noticing Toge, Yuta, and Maki talking with Yuji, while Choso chatted at the soundboard next to Ino.

Megumi, however, still sat at his kit on the phone, smiling from ear to ear. You looked at him with a squint, tilting your head, then turned back to Nobara.

She looked back at you with a straight face, one of her eyebrows raised and whispered, “He said ‘what is it Nanako’, when he answered.” She crossed her arms, looking back through the window at him. “look, it might be nothing, but … I just thought you should be aware.”

He was sitting, slightly hunched at his kit, with one of the biggest smiles on his face that you’ve seen in a while.

What the hell is happening? Is he serious right now? What the fuck could be so funny if he’s talking to his ex?

You felt your stomach begin to turn. Along with the trajectory of this whole night apparently. You were beginning to feel a pretty ugly emotion take over. One that made you considerably uncomfortable.

You looked away from him, inexplicably disgusted for a second, down to the floor as you bit the inside of your jaw, and as your eyes made their way back up, they happened to land on Choso’s face.

“Hey singer!” he joked, as a huge smile spread across his lips.

You took a deep breath, licked your lips glanced back over at Megumi, then back down to the floor as you contemplated what your next move should be.

Choso glanced over at Megumi, then back at you, as his smile faded. He slowly stood up from his chair and walked over to you, “Hey. Everything ok?” he asked with a tiny wrinkle between his brows, His voice much kinder than you’d probably ever heard it since you met him.

Your breath hitched in your throat as you swallowed hard, taking another deep breath before answering, worried that the sound may not carry the way you needed it to.

“Uh… You know…” you looked up at Choso’s surprisingly concerned face as you smirked nervously. “I’m not sure. I think I’ll head home.”

“Do you need a ride?” He asked, a tiny frown on his face.

“Yeah, there are a couple cars here that can get you where you need to go.” Nobara offered.

“No, sweetie it’s fine. You stay with Yuji, k? I want you to have fun”. You turned to Choso. “Hey, are you having company? I don’t want to cause you trouble, too.”

“No, I’m not. And it’s nothing, don’t worry. Just let me know when you’re ready. Ok?”

You nodded a couple times, flashed him a smile, and he wandered back over to sit next to Ino.

You were pleasantly surprised at his behavior, especially his consideration toward you. It seems Yuji was right about him.

Megumi was apparently having an interesting conversation. He barely looked up from the phone. Whatever, or whoever it was damn sure had him pretty enamored.

You found yourself in the same place as in the beginning. A spot where you didn’t wanna make “it” your business. It was time to go.

You took a few slow steps over to the window where he sat and knocked twice. He looked up, his smile fading almost immediately as he caught the not-so-happy expression on your face.

You flashed him a quick peace sign. And turned around to leave, motioning to Choso that you were ready with a quick upward nod.

“Love you. I’ll call you tomorrow” Nobara said with disquieted eyes as she held out her arms to hug you goodbye.

“K.” you felt her warmth in the hug.

She squeezed you extra hard, “It’ll work itself out. Don’t worry, ok? Just trust yourself.” She whispered as Choso walked over to open the door to the main room for you.

You stepped through after waving goodbye to Itadori and the others.

Closer To Me – H.E.R.

was now playing on the system. Just as you and Choso made it to the middle of the main room, Megumi reached you. The door to the control room closing behind him.

“Hey! You’re leaving?” he asked, apparently genuinely confused.

“Yeah” you huffed softly. “I have to get up early and I uh, I have a commitment that I have to keep for tomorrow night, so…” you said as you nodded toward the door, avoiding his gaze.

Megumi glanced toward Choso, squinting as he addressed you. “I can take you if you really need to leave now.”

“Well,” you looked up at him square in the eyes. “you seem a little… preoccupied. I’d hate to be a distraction.”

Choso’s eyes dropped to the floor, then back up at Megumi, then you. “I’ll give you guys a minute.” He said, as he made his way back into the control room.

The vibe was so awkward. It was starting to annoy you.

Still, you didn’t know exactly what to say. Why would he be talking to his ex while you’re waiting for him? How could he do that while you were there, kekeing in your face with another chick?

It was … disrespectful to say the least. And flat out made you uncomfortable.

“What’s going on?” He asked.

“You looked away, your lips disappearing into your mouth as you inhaled, then exhaled.”

“Please look at me.”

You turned your hesitant gaze toward him.

“If something’s on your mind, I really wish you’d say so.” He said, quite nonchalantly.

“I don’t like drama, Megumi.” It felt as if your breath was leaving your body faster than you could use it to form your words.

It was like anything you said to him would sound like a complaint. You didn’t wanna speak. Not because you didn’t have anything to say, but expending the energy to do so seemed like … too much. The thought of it was exhausting.

You stood there, arms crossed around the strap of your bag and your jacket, staring into his eyes.

He stood before you, frozen, his expression blank. His hands stuffed in the pockets of his oversized grey sweatpants, the ankles at the hem almost swallowing his black and white converse, the waistline covered by the hem of his thick black hoodie.

He seemed to have all the time in the world as he waited patiently for you to say what was on your mind.

“Why … did you invite me here?” you asked, bluntly. You figured getting this over with quickly would be the least tiring route.

“Because I wanted you here.”

“To see you flirting on the phone?”

“I wasn’t flirting.”

You rolled your eyes, pausing for a moment, taking another deep breath. “Look. I’m not your boss.”

“Yes, you are.”

“What?” you huffed.

“Tell me what you need.”

“I need a ride home.”

“I’ll take you. What else?”

“I need you to not embarrass me in front of your friends, by forcing me to do something important without discussing it with me.”

“Done. He frowned. And I’m sorry. I really didn’t mean to upset you.”

“Who were you talking to?”

“Nanako.”

“Why?”

“She called, asking about Ino, and whether he would be staying here overnight.”

“Is that what was so funny?”

“Were you upset that I was laughing?”

“At her? Yeah.”

“Why?”

“Because if you’re mine, you’re mine.”

You could see Megumi forcing back a smile, as he blushed ever so slightly down toward the floor.

“…it won’t happen again.” he smirked, looking back up at you.

“Are you going to answer my question?” you asked, pointedly.

“Of course. Her sister jumped on the line in an attempt to convince me to not be too hard on her, while also mocking her. I thought it was funny. I wasn’t talking to Nanako at that point.”

“Fine. But if she wants to talk to Ino, what is she calling you for?”

“To be honest, I don’t know. I’ll address that, too.”

You looked away.

Megumi’s eyes grew smaller as he gazed at your pouty face, his bottom lip disappearing into his mouth.

“Come home with me.” He asked, a tiny smile tugging at the corner of his lips.

“Maybe another time.”

“Please?”

“No.”

His tangible gaze never left your face as he smirked. “Okay. I’ll take you to your place … for now.”

You cut your eyes at him slightly. “Thank you.”

*~*~*~*~*

The ride home was pretty quiet. The deep blue console of his quite beautiful sleek black ride lit up your faces in the night as

Coco Jones – Double Back

played on his system. You worked hard to keep your eyes on the road, or at least on the dark features of the different people of all shapes and sizes whooshing by, along with the nightlife lights, casting various shadows as you stared out the window. The cool evening breeze glided across your skin, gently tousling your hair.

As you stole glances over at Megumi, you couldn’t help but notice how amazing he looked just driving. His long legs stretching out from under the steering wheel, his thighs resting far apart, surely providing “him” some breathing room for that beautiful bulge peeking out from under his thick grey sweatpants.

His full, long, veiny hands rested on the steering wheel as he drove you safely where you needed to go. As you approached a stop light, your eyes traveled up from his legs, to his hands, up his arms, to his face, only to find him staring back at you. As he propped his elbow up on the window, turned toward you, his body mimicked the same position he had that first night backstage after his show, when he sat next to you on the couch.

Your gaze lingered a couple seconds longer than necessary, as you pressed your knees together, rubbing the side of your neck as you turned to look out the window.

It’s so hard with him. It felt nearly impossible to rip your mind away from him. But you had to get back. Tonight was … different. And you needed some space for now.

As disappointing it was to realize, apparently Nanako is still a factor somehow, and you were going to find out exactly how much of a factor she is. Lingering exes is a “no” for you. Megumi pulled up to your door, parked the car, and got out.

What is he doing?

You were surprised to find that he was making his way over to open your door for you.

“Thank you” you said, as you stepped out onto the pavement, the cool air hitting you a little harder than expected. You hadn’t realized how hot your body was becoming, sitting next to him in the car.

He closed the door as you stepped out, looking down at you, a tiny smile playing at his lips. “Will you be at the show on Saturday night?”

“Mhm. I’ll see you there.”

“Okay. Goodnight”.

“Goodnight Megumi.”

His eyes followed your figure as you walked up to your apartment door. You fumbled for your keys for a moment, finally finding them and unlocking it.

You turned to see Megumi leaning against his car, hands in his pockets, waiting for you to get safely into your house before he got back in and pulled away.

*~*~*~*~*

You rolled around on your bed, having kicked off your thick blankets. Your mind reeling.

Ugh, what is my problem?

You turned over toward your bedside table, the small light brightly illuminated on your clock, which displayed four am.

You remembered that your bestie spent last night at Megumi’s. You wondered if she and Itadori had stayed over. Your mind wandered to what Megumi was doing, and if Nanako had called him again.

It was so irritating to not be able to keep him off of your mind. You turned to lay on your back, your eyes fixed onto the ceiling, your fan whirring slowly above you. You tossed your arm over your eyes as your Bluetooth played

I’m Not OK – H.E.R.

quietly. You sat up and slid your bunny slippers on in one quick motion to grab some water from the kitchen. Suddenly the room felt extra cold for some reason. Your hand gripped the edge of the counter, the cold sending a chill up your spine. You gulped down your water, placed your glass in the sink, and headed back to the bed. You lay there, sprawled out, facing the ceiling.

As your lids lowered back over your eyes, Megumi’s face flashed into your memory. His eyes gazing intently at you as you confronted him about his behavior. How can he be so beautiful while pissing you off? He’s always so goddamned chill.

You recalled his body as he drove you here in his sleek black car. The way he stared back at you, the feelings that rushed through you as you made eye contact.

Your hands made their way down between your inner thighs. You realized your body was hot. Your thoughts, full of him. Your hand continued to rub the inside of your legs, sliding up toward your clothed center. You slid your fingers up and down your slit, grazing across, slightly teasing your clit. You flinched, as a visual of Megumi’s long fingers and his sexy smirk crossed your mind.

Your eyes fluttered shut, your brow furrowing as you squeezed your legs closed over your hand, trapping it between your thighs.

Ugh… stop it.

You said to yourself, Go to sleep. Please.

You hand reached up to grab the side of your neck, as you thought of how thick his bulge looked under his pants. You recalled the feeling of his long fingers wrapped around your neck. Chills covered your body, your hand gliding down toward your chest as you gripped your breast, a moan escaping your lips before you bit it.

Your other hand reached up to grab the other breast, as your fingers pinched the hardened buds. An image of him looking up at you from between your legs flashed into your head. Your body trembled as your breathing hitched, your thighs rubbing together as your core clenched.

No, girl.

You moaned as your clit seemed to get more sensitive by the second, your thighs pressing against it making you flinch.

Not now. Just go to sleep already!

You peeled your hands away, curling up into the fetal position, locking your hands under your cheek. You let out a big sigh, you asked yourself why you were so uneasy. Yes, you wanted Megumi. You always wanted him.

But you didn't need to be so … anxious though. Why are you like this? You really only had one answer.

Your family had worked so much of that shit into you, it was really hard to break away from. And you could only do so much on your own. The fastest way you could think of to get past it is to dive in and face it all head on.

What you really didn’t want, is to hurt anyone in the process of you figuring things out. You cared so much about your friends that you truly didn’t want them caught in the crossfire. But what could you do?

They had already scolded you before for backtracking. “Trust yourself” that’s what Nobara said. But how, when you feel you’ve betrayed your own best interest so many times?

It was so scary thinking you’d have to sing in that environment, directly in front of such professionals when you really hadn’t even rehearsed, and wasn’t even told about it. You weren’t even sure you wanted to sing that one if at all. It really was that part that bothered you the most. Not so much Megumi asking you to do it, but how you felt doing it at all.

Did I overreact?

Maybe, but… it’s easy to apologize. And Megumi seems to be a reasonable guy. He still should have told you first, though. Your brain was turning thoughts of these things over and over in your head.

You picked up your phone, thinking you should text something to him, only to find that he had texted you at two thirty-seven a.m.

Megumi: I really am sorry for upsetting you. Forgive me.

You sigh to yourself in an attempt to calm the obvious fire in your damn loins, rolling your eyes and shaking your head to yourself as you drift back into sleep.

*~*~*~*~*

“So, how was everything last night?” You asked.

“It was amazing, actually.” Nobara replied, chomping on her snack she was having in the middle of her lunch break at work. “Well, Dori and I had a great time. Megumi is super hospitable. Had food there for us and everything. It was nice… sorry.”

You giggled “Why are you apologizing?”

She whined “I’m sorry about what happened! I didn’t mean to cause trouble. I admit, I felt some kinda way about him being on the phone with Nanako too, but it wasn’t my place to stir anything up.”

You smiled, “Its ok. Thank you for saying that, but it was my responsibility to stay cool. You know you’re my girl, and I love you. I appreciate you looking out for me.”

“Yeah, but … you know me!” She continued, “I got ahead of myself. I had to apologize to Megumi, too by the way. I felt so bad for getting up in your business.”

“Yes, I do know you, and that’s exactly why its ok. Really.”

“He said that, too.” She huffed. “Are you on your way to your dads?”

“Yeah. It won’t take long. I already know the songs we’re doing, and there aren’t many. I have to sing one solo. I practiced a bit before work. Been drinking warm water all day and doing warmups.”

“Mmm. … Can I ask you something?”

“Sure, whats up?”

“Why didn’t you wanna sing last night? Megumi told me.”

You paused for a minute while considering it. “Scared.” You huffed. “That’s basically it. Plain old fear.” You uttered as you rolled your eyes. “Part of me was annoyed and upset at Megumi for putting me on the spot like that, but mostly it was just me freaking out. I didn’t wanna screw up too bad in front of everyone.”

“Why so worried, though? You’ve done this like a million times.”

“I know. I just… I think I’m also like, putting him on a pedestal. It sucks. I’m fucking irritating myself.”

Nobara giggled, “I totally get it. I felt like that around Yuji when I first met him. I ran from the bar every time I ordered from him, freaking out about how hot he is like some teenager.”

You chuckled, “He’s is super adorable. Can’t blame you for that.”

“You just need an icebreaker or something to help you get over it. Even though you guys have already slept together…”

“Yeah, I know. They’re just so good at what they do. I’d want to make the best impression.”

“I have an idea.” Nobara chuckled to herself, “sorry, I just said I didn’t wanna stir anything up and here I go again!”

“What? tell me.”

"Why don’t you ask him to come to the wedding?”

You pondered the idea for a second. And of course it made you nervous. “You think I should?”

“Well, you’ll already be singing, mostly in your comfort zone with your dad’s band, and if he comes, it’ll just be him and not his whole group.”

“Hmmm,” you giggled. “Really?”

“Do it. Seems like a chance for you to break the ice a bit more and relax around him. Especially while you’re essentially in the middle of doing something you love.”

“Yeah. It definitely still makes me nervous. But its worth a try for sure.” You smirked for just a second as you thought about something. “Not you and Itadori being my relationship coaches lately…”

“Girl, look!” Nobara chuckled, “Whatever works, ok? I’m here for you, and I’m sure he is, too! Go for it. We’re rooting for you guys.”

“Thank you, love. I really appreciate you guys, too.” You replied.

“I’m gonna get back to work.” Nobara grunted. “Weekend’s almost here! I’ll see you Saturday night?”

“Yup!”

“Talk to you later.”

“K!”

*~*~*~*~*

You arrived at your dads home, and as you approached the door, you could hear music thrumming from inside. You walked right in, since he usually kept the door unlocked for artists as they arrived. It was likely a knock wouldn’t be heard over the music.

Upon entry, you waved at everyone, saying hello as you looked around for a place to sit. His full 5 piece band was present, and 3 backup singers, only one of which you knew.

“Hey! How are you?” your dad asked, as he saw you come in.

The drummer, bass and guitar players were rehearsing a specific part. You found a seat, and waited patiently for them to finish as you spoke to the singer you knew.

You’d forgotten how much you loved the smell of instruments collected in a space, and the feeling of accomplishment you got, from even arriving at a rehearsal.

Being part of a group that has a similar goal, knowing you had a performance to do, and that people would be waiting to see you was always a satisfying thrill to you.

You wondered why you didn’t feel this right away when you arrived at Megumi’s studio. It’s almost as if you forget yourself when you’re around him. He’d drawn you in so much, that you forgot to relax.

The rehearsal went smoothly for the most part, you laughed and joked around with the girls, even at some of the jokes that were made by some of the band members at your dad’s expense.

Then it was time for him to teach the girls a part for one of the songs. You knew your dad had a tendency to forget things sometimes as he played. It might have simply been his old age, but he’d often play something, ask the group to execute it, change it, then get angry when it was done the original way.

It happened on several occasions, and each time, he’d take his frustration out on the musicians. Yet another reason you didn’t care much to work with him.

He taught the part he wanted you all to learn, played in C, but then changed it to C#. They didn’t quite understand how to execute it and kept singing it in C when the chord progression changed.

It was a common mistake for many singers to make, especially when one of them was consistently louder than the others, and inadvertently caused confusion.

However, the way your dad handled it was less than desirable. “Whats goin’ on here?” he asked with a frown, pacing back and forth in front of the group. “How are you not getting this?”

The girl you knew, Joy, answered, “I feel like we get it, we just have a habit of singing it a certain way and need a minute to learn the new way.”

“Yeah, but” your dad continued, “Y'all sang it once correctly but you keep reverting back to the original key! Its not that hard.” He turned to you, and asked you to do it as he sat at his keyboard.

He played the progression, and you sang it in C#. He still managed to get upset. “Why are you singing it like that?”

“What?” you looked at him in confusion. “That’s the way you just told us to do it.”

He stood there for a moment, cutting his eyes at you. “No – are you kidding me?! Y'all ain't gon’ make a fool out of me on MY stage. People are coming to see me, not y’all messing up.”

Joy looked at you, as she was the only other person singing it correctly, and all you could do was nod to her in agreement and roll your eyes at the way he was treating you all. The tension in the air was thick, and exhausting.

The entire band could see how erroneous his behavior was, and you were honestly glad that you weren’t the only one to witness it this time. When it was time to go, you were more than happy to leave.

*~*~*~*~*

Thinkin Bout You - Frank Ocean

played as you sat on your bed, exhausted after having your shower, ready to go to sleep. You thought about Megumi. He’d danced around in your head the entire time you were at the rehearsal. The difference between his methods of teaching and your dad’s were like night and day.

You decided to call him this time.

“Hello?”

The sound of his voice was like music to your ears. It was like your heart lit up, and illuminated your entire body. “Hey. You busy?”

“Hey there.” He sounded happy to hear from you. “not for you. How are you?”

“I’m actually pretty exhausted to be honest.” You said with a sigh.

“Oh yeah? Your hot date not go well?”

“What?”

He chuckled softly. “You said you had a commitment to keep tonight, right?”

“Oh, yes. But it definitely wasn’t that.” You retorted with a huff.

“That’s good to know. So, what happened?”

“I just had a rehearsal with my father.”

“Oh wow… How did that go?”

“It was … a lot” you sighed again. I’m glad to be home. And so happy to hear your voice.”

“Hmmm… well, I’m sorry to hear you had a hard time. But I’m glad to hear yours too.”

“I wanted to ask you something.”

“Sure.”

“Would you be willing to come to a wedding tomorrow?”

“Wow. This is so sudden. But my answer is still ‘yes’”

You laughed at his joke. “Not mine, silly. I have to sing a solo there, and I wanted to ask you if you’d like to come”.

He paused, for what felt like a full minute. “Really?”

“Yes, really.” You smiled. “I’d actually love for you to come if you can. I know you have your show tomo –”

“I’d love to come. Thank you for inviting me. Sounds exciting.”

“Exciting? It’s a stuffy wedding.”

“Yeah, but I get to hear you sing. LIVE. I can’t wait.”

You blushed so hard you could swear he’d see it over the phone. “It starts at 11am.”

“Can I drive you?”

“You’d do that?”

“You have no idea what I’d do for you.”

“Okay. It’s a date.” You sat in silence for a moment, feeling his presence over the phone. “And then I get to see you perform.”

“Yes. So we’ll be together all day?” He asked, excitedly.

“Is that what you want?”

“That’s what I want.”

“Okay. Let’s do it.” You agreed. “I also, would like to apologize.”

“For what?”

“I feel like I… overreacted a little last night. I still wanted you to talk to me first, but I got scared and freaked out. I’m sorry for that.”

“You don’t have to apologize. I should have asked first.”

“I also… miss you” you felt your heart skip a beat at your own admission. You both sat with the phone between you, listening to the silence on the other end as you relaxed in that moment. You were happy to have let him know how you truly feel.

Megumi took a deep breath over the phone, intentionally, it seemed, as if he wanted you to hear it. … “I miss you, too.” He replied, softly.

“Come and get me at ten, okay?”

“Sharp.”

*~*~*~*~*

You were ready by nine thirty.

Finally, your weekend was here.

You were so tempted to have a mimosa with your one waffle and one egg you ate for breakfast. God forbid you ate too much, ridding yourself of space in your belly for “air” you’d need while singing, and you didn’t want to hurl from freaking out.

You had some “Throat Coat” tea, warm but not hot, and sipped plenty of water. Hopefully not too much, since you’d end spending more time in the bathroom than you would at the microphone.

The butterflies fluttered in your belly, relentlessly tickling your insides, keeping you from settling down.

Megumi would be there any minute, and you couldn’t be more nervous. So much happening at once, a performance, a solo, one you had to do with your dad no less, it had been a while for you, and you were doing this in front of your new guy, someone you respected as a talented artist.

If you were honest, what you felt was a blend of excitement and pure nerves. It was practically like an official date, and you really missed hanging out with him, but it was all so overwhelming.

Your dress was simple, sleek and form fitting, a bodycon, black, asymmetrical neckline, while your hair was pulled back in a beautiful messy braid, the tail of it traveling down toward the middle of your back. You had all of your earrings in, four up one ear and five up the other, with a chain linking from your helix to your lobe.

Then, finally, a knock at the door.

You clicked over to it in your black 4.5” open toe stiletto’s, stood there for a moment, took a deep breath, and opened it.

You stood there, holding your breath for a minute, as a hard line formed between Megumi’s brows as he took in the sight of you.

You released your breath, a smile spreading across your face. “Hey.”

“Wow.” He stood in the doorway, gazing, his eyes traveling up and down your form as his lips parted.

As you motioned for him to come in, he covered his mouth with his hand. And turned his head to the right, grabbing his lips. He stuffed both of his hands in his pockets as he hung his head low.

You closed the door as he walked in, flattening out any wrinkles in your dress with your hands.

With his head in that position, he licked his lips and looked up at you with a smirk. “You look absolutely ravishing”.

His smile was breathtaking.

He was wearing a slightly oversized black v-neck cashmere sweater, the fabric settling beautifully on the curves of his chest, relaxed at the hem, scrunched up in the middle of his forearms. His pants were a slim fit, black, and tapered at the ankle, not his usual baggy attire, but still his style, and fit him beautifully.

His Doc. Martens were perfectly black, as was his hair, sleek and still spikey, but styled a little differently, concentrated to the left, shorter spiked strands reaching for his face on the right side, contrasting against his slightly pale skin and beautiful dark blue eyes. He looked as hot as he did the very first time you saw him. Only a little more … shiny.

“And you look… like…” you bit your bottom lip as you looked him up and down.

Megumi walked over to you slowly, his chest stopping less than an inch from your face. He looked down into your eyes. “What do I look like?”

“Like, uh…” you shook your head, at a loss for words.

His hands reached up to your neck, his fingers snaking around to your nape, his thumb pressing your chin up. His lips hovered close enough to steal breath from between yours. You leaned in, pressing your lips against his. The sensation piercing straight to your core.

It felt like it had been an eternity since you’d kissed him. It was as if you could finally breathe again.

His lips were soft and warm as they pressed gently and sensually against you, landing several kisses before parting yours slightly, his tongue requesting entry. You were more than happy to invite him inside. He slipped his tongue in, sliding it across yours.

The taste of his kiss was like receiving drops of cool water after nearly dying of thirst. Every stroke of his tongue left you wanting more, you opened your mouth wider, tilting your head back, melting into his arms as he pressed forward granting your wish.

His hand remained around your neck, as you always loved it to be, as his other hand curved around your waist, pulling you even closer. Feeling his body against yours made you weak, his stiff member pressing against the curves of your belly.

You wanted nothing more in this moment than to open up to him completely as his strong arms maintained their firm hold your body.

But he broke the kiss, trailing them along your jaw as his lips reached your earlobe where he planted a single kiss. His arm wrapped around you tighter, as his hand gripped you at your waist, fingers digging in, tickling your side. “We’d better go… before I lose control and devour you right here”.

Your heart skipped a beat, electricity surging through your veins as he spoke. What this man does to your body is sometimes inexplicable. But he was right. It’s time to go, or you’ll become extremely irresponsible in this moment.

You let out a heavy sigh, lifting your head up as he held you, looking into his eyes with a sultry gaze, suddenly feeling a surge of confidence. “Then let’s go, baby.” You whispered. Then leaned over to the couch, grabbing your bag and jacket.

*~*~*~*~*

The building was filled to capacity, the low hum of individual conversations floating throughout the beautiful, bright space. The wedding was being held in a large church, majestic and pretty, decorated with the couple’s chosen themed colors, florals and fabrics.

Love You Like I Do – Vancouver Sleep Clinic

played in the background.

The platform you were positioned on was set up high in the back of the building. The band was on the right side of the platform. Your dad at the grand piano to the left of you, the band to the left of him while the other singers were slightly behind you to the right.

Megumi was in the audience, surprisingly close to the front, having taken the seat of someone who conveniently didn’t show up. An enormous grin plastered across his face the entire time as he sat wide-eyed, watching your every move.

Every few minutes or so, you’d see him chatting with the elderly woman sitting next to him, her smile clear evidence of his charming nature. He’d look up periodically, lock eyes with you, smirk, and flash his teeth. You’d chuckle each time, rolling your eyes.

Nobara was right. You could feel some of the disconcerting tension melting away the longer he spent in your presence.

Suddenly you hear your dad, snapping at one of the helpers for not getting him a water when he’d asked. Your smile slowly fading as you saw the frustration on the face of the person he’d yelled at.

“Y/N! Can you get me one of the waters I asked for? PLEASE!” he practically screamed across the stage.

Your eyes flicked over to Megumi, who was watching you intently, his eyebrows wrinkled, and a squint in his eyes.

You looked down toward the floor in embarrassment as you got up from your seat, walking off of the stage to help them grab the waters. “I’m sorry about this” you whispered to the helper, resting your hand on their shoulder.

“Don’t apologize to them! That’s their job! They should have this stuff ready for me!” your dad yelled down from the stage.

The helper looked at you, “We had to wait until they brought them back from the grocery store. There was someone assigned to bring them, and they forgot. I’m sorry” he uttered.

“It’s okay, don’t worry. We have them now. It’s not a big deal. Thank you so much for providing them for us.” You whispered to him. You took a deep breath, and the waters, and walked them back up to the stage, passing them out to each of the band members, your dad snatching one from your hand.

You sat back down in your stool, waiting for the announcement of the bride. I just wanna get this over with. Is all you could think, as you squeezed your hands together, and slowly breathed in and out, working to relax your mind again.

You glanced out toward Megumi. He was now sitting back against his seat, arms crossed, his eyes locked on you. A frown in his forehead and his lips scrunched up in the corner of his mouth.

Your lids fell over your eyes a bit as you observed his obvious concern. You mouthed the words “Don't worry. It's okay.” a smile tugging at your lips.

Finally, the announcer said, “May I ask everyone to please stand for the bride?”

Butterflies tickled your belly as you stood, locking eyes with Megumi again as you approached the microphone, your smile now spreading wider. It was a beautiful thing; his presence alone, knowing he was there for you, made this experience exponentially more tolerable.

Everyone turned toward the front of the church as the doors opened for the beautiful bride, Megumi being one of the only people still facing the stage, his dark blues glued to your face. Your father played the intro, you took a breath, closed your eyes, and began singing:

Fall In – Esperanza Spalding

After singing your first line, your eyes opened slowly to the very spot Megumi stood. You maintained fierce eye contact with him as his widened. Your beautiful notes filled the room, echoing off of the walls, rounding out the sounds of the notes flowing from the piano.

Megumi's face dropped toward the floor, looking back up toward you with a beautiful blush as you continued to sing to him.

Your hands reached up toward the handle of the microphone, sliding up and down the stand as you became more engulfed in the song, your chest rising and falling with your breaths. Your eyes never left his, even for a second as you sang from the depths of your heart.

As the bride made her way to her beloved, Megumi's blue eyes came more clearly into view as he stood frozen in place, his gaze growing more intense. You leaned into this moment, enjoying the effect you and your beautiful song had on him.

You felt completely in sync with him again. Your connection had always been empowering, with him always being an inspiration. But today, the feelings rooted in your heart for him seemed to dig themselves deeper, spreading out further, finding new places to settle in it’s recesses.

The intense desire to be even closer to him grew stronger. You needed more moments like this. To know him more. And to show him more of you. To open up areas of your heart for him to see that you typically wouldn’t show a soul. No matter how scary, no matter how secret.

Megumi was unable to take his eyes off you.

Likewise, you were unable to take yours off him.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

And tonight, your body will surely follow suit.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

<< Set 3 | Set 5 >>

Set 5 Preview: ... You took a deep breath and a long pause, your eyes wandering a moment, then surveying his features coolly. “Then, you’ll have to commit, too.”

He huffed, rubbing the back of his hand down your cheek, his long fingers sliding around toward the back of your neck, his thumb grazing the sensitive skin of your bottom lip as he met your gaze.

“Hmph, that’s the easy part. And … I’ll have you in my studio every night.” He purred, lifting your head as he leaned in, rubbing his lips up your neck, then laying a soft kiss on your lobe.

“Such a hard worker you are.” you moaned, his body weight and his touch, stealing your breath.

Megumi huffed, “You have no idea.” ...

Thanks for reading! ✨🥰✨

Notes: As always, I welcome any and all critiques, suggestions, and comments regarding my work, since I truly feel all of those may make me a much better writer! I sincerely appreciate you taking the time to read my little stories, and if you'd like to be tagged in releases, don't hesitate to comment below! 😊💖🎶

©cocomanga 2024 | Please do not plagiarize, copy, or distribute my work.

Fanart Art: Courtesy of @Pinterest/@Berserker049 Ombre Caution/DNI & Animated lines: Courtesy of @CafeKitsune

[merakiui]

thank you scalding sands event for reminding me of just how crazy rich kalim is... orz i often forget how spoiled he is and how willing his parents (especially his father) are to do all that they can to ensure he's happy. like remodeling the entire scarabia dorm to fit kalim's vision so he wouldn't be too homesick. or owning giraffes and elephants. or even having an entire private park attached to their already massive property. he is so rich. it's driving me insane. T_T

i wrote about the tweels using their family's influence to essentially "buy" you, but the real buying of you quite literally happens with kalim. you, the servant he's grown so fond of, will suddenly find yourself swimming in wealth. all of these things are gifts, courtesy of kalim. your family is spoiled rotten, and it's such a whiplash. you try to be humble because that's how you were raised, but kalim insists. take these jewels! take this aureate statue! take this car so that you can get yourself a license and drive him around in it! kalim isn't even trying to curry favor with you by drowning you in excessive opulence, even though he very well could. he just wants to give you these things because he likes you and wants you to be happy! but it's so suffocating; you have to thank him because he's your master. your family will forever be grateful to the asims. but it's so awkward. you don't want any of these things. you just want to work in peace.

of course you can't possibly imagine yourself in a relationship with kalim. he's very sweet, but you just don't see him in that way. the gap in wealth is too great, as is your social status. so it's shocking when his father personally visits your parents with kalim, where he gives his blessing for kalim to marry you. and in addition to that, he delivers a very expensive care package, a means of goodwill. "our families will be one now," he says with a radiant smile, "so please think nothing of this little gift!" and you try to say no, but your parents won't hear it. how could you say no to kalim al-asim?! are you foolish? do you not see how lucky you ought to be?

but you can't quite call it luck or a blessing. it feels more like a curse. kalim loves you, yes, but you don't want to love him for his money or his willingness to mindlessly spoil you. but you don't have much say in this matter. kalim's made up his mind and so has his father. the two of you will be wed. it's a nightmare. jamil would pity you, but he's known kalim long enough that any sympathy he might extend to you has long since shriveled.

[thranduel]

NEIL JUST SIGNED MY PRINT!! 😭😭😭😭😭

i asked if he could write something comforting and he wrote “you’re not alone in this. none of us are, darling” and he said it in astarion’s voice and my name as well and i just

[hellboundhimbo]

some kuwama doodles from like. however fucking long ago i don’t remember (>_>) anyway i care them

ft yusuke being a salty bitch. you snooze you lose, bud.

[writer-room]

Just finished both seasons of Earthspark in preparation for S3 this week. First of all, don't believe the review-bombers, this show is FIRE. Second of all, I need all of you to guess,

[ink-the-artist]

some clone high ocs bc I am cringe but I am free. and bc im excited for the upcoming reboot :)

just the line art:

[bronzeys]

I cannot do this today

Never ever reading a caption first by the way my life flashed in front of my eyes😭

[cocomanga]

The Sweetest Beat - Set 3

Pairing : Megumi Fushiguro x Fem!Reader,

CW : JJK AU. Daddy Kink, Noncon, Dubcon, Praise Kink, Size Kink, Oral, BDSM, Unprotected Sex, Edging, Drunk Sex, Aggressive Sex, Overstimulation, NPD Abuse/Trauma

Please Note: please block me if my work is not your cup-o-tea I do not own any of the character art

Reader is encouraged to listen to music mentioned for context. :)

WC : 14K! (got kinda crayzeee!)

Wanna take it from the top? Start at Set 1🎶;)

<< The Sweetest Beat - Set 2

The Sweetest Beat - Set 4 >>

TSB - Masterlist ~ AO3 | Wattpad | Playlist

Synopsis: Megumi Fushiguro is the leader of a fresh new rock band. They're currently playing covers and gaining a following at an alarming rate, skyrocketing his career as an indie artist. But when his best friend introduces him to a beautiful someone and sparks fly, he's challenged to navigate her fear of loving freely.

..... Minors: You have no business here. Love you, but please don't ....

▶ SET 3 Say it Aint So - Weezer Everything In It's Right Place - Radiohead Destiny - Zero 7 Coral - Fractures Process - H.E.R. Snooze - SZA Whoa - Snoh Aalegra Finesse - Drake Autumn's Dreamland - A.G. Sully I Adore You - Yebba Your Interlude - Sabrina Claudio Take Me Home - Paper Kites Roslyn - Ben Pellow Lippincott - Animals as Leaders Do For Love - Snoh Aalegra Tastes so Good - Sabrina Claudio

A low, humming vibration gently pulled you from your peaceful slumber. As your eyes slowly adjust to the dim sunlight peeking through the closed wooden blinds, you notice your phone sitting silently on the bedside table.

It's... not mine...

With a little grunt, you lift and turn your throbbing head toward the left side of the bed. Your arm slides several times across the cool sheets. You look over, blinking, to find that Megumi is quietly tucked away underneath the soothing pitter patter of the shower.

Say it Aint So - Weezer

played softly in the room from the speaker.

His phone vibrated a few more times on his table, then went silent. You closed your eyes, plopping your head back down, grateful to regain the quiet.

Not 5 seconds later, another vibration. You opened your eyes, looking at the glow of the screen illuminate that side of the room.

2 rings. . .

5 rings. . .

8 rings. . .

A frown formed on your face as you hoped they'd simply just call him back later. Obviously he's busy, right?

11 rings, then finally, silence.

Geez.

You let out a breathy sigh.

Surely they're done.

It rang again.

You know, its funny we live in a day and age when we can actually assign personality traits to people based on the way our little devices are used.

That many rings?

Had to be one of two people. His mother... or a woman. Tch.

You decided to look. I mean, you're in his damn bed after all. You deserved at least that much since they wouldn't relent.

You sluggishly dragged your body over to peek at the screen after the 12th ring:

"Nanako". You let out a chuckle laced with a little attitude.

Welp, it doesnt say 'Mom'.

She finally stopped calling.

You decided it really wasn't any of your business but you were still curious. You retreat to your side of the bed, sinking your headache back into the plush pillow, facing that amazing window as the shower in the bathroom stopped running.

You hear the door open and as the misty air wafts over your way, you feel, and smell Megumi emerge steamy fresh and clean. As you inhale that wonderful fragrance that you hoped he'd never stop using, you turn your little smile around to face him.

He stood in the doorway, illuminated from behind by the light in the bathroom, his perfect athletic figure leaning against the door frame with a towel wrapped low around his waist as he brushed another one across his jet-black hair.

Damn he's hot.

You hid most of your wide smile in the pillow.

Well, Nanako, can't say I blame you, honey.

He stood there, his hooded eyes observing you for a bit. "Good morning." He finally uttered as he tilted his head sideways to get a better look at you.

You revealed your smile with a breathy, "Good morning".

An adorable smirk formed on his lips as he approached the bed. He sat on the edge, "What a pleasant voice you have in the morning."

You blushed into the pillows, taking another deep breath.

"How are you feeling?" He asked, still looking at you with a beautifully warm expression on his face.

His question triggered your memory that something other than adoration was happening in your body. "Definitely hungover." You whined, with a frown.

"Yeah..." he replied, as he acknowledged his own throbbing headache. Well, the bathroom's all yours now. Choso's making breakfast. The food'll help.

"Choso?" you chuckled. "Really?"

He huffed, "Yea. He's actually a damn good cook."

Giggling softly as you sat up on the bed, your hand immediately reached for your head as the throbbing continued to pound behind your eyes.

Megumi handed you a bottle of water that was sitting on his bedside table.

"Thank you".

"Of course."

You got up from the bed as you opened the bottle and chugged as much of it as possible on your way to the bathroom, suddenly stopping before reaching the door. You turned back toward him, "Megumi... I, wanna apologize for- "

"Don't worry about it." He interjected as he stood up to face you. "It's really ok." he said as he observed your concerned facial expression.

"No, I..." you started as you held your head down, shaking it back and forth, in an attempt to make sense of yourself. "I was-"

"Bad?"

You looked up quickly, blushing, genuinely embarrassed, your brow furrowing a bit as you averted your eyes again.

He continued, in an unnervingly soft tone, "You... were bad." still managing to peek up through his lids at you, even though hes taller.

Megumi had that emotionless gaze down pat, his dark blues always pierced clean through you, exposing your innermost desires.

He slowly stepped closer with his hands behind his back, clad only in the white towel, soft black lines below his lower abdomen disappearing behind it, leading down to his print as it became more visible by the second.

You took a deep breath, standing there quietly as he turned his head in toward your ear, his voice in a hushed tone, "But . . . we took care of that, right?"

Your body clenched from your core as his deep, soft voice vibrated in your ear, his words reigniting a fire, and the memory of the unforgettable "care" he quite literally put into you.

Everything In It's Right Place - Radiohead

Played as he slid the back of his hand softly down your cheek, his thumb gliding across your lips. "Are you trying to tell me that you need more discipline?"

You felt a deep 'thump' in your chest. Your body temperature seemed to rise steadily, but you shook your head slowly, your eyes fluttered as you mustered an answer barely above a whisper. "No".

Megumi smirked slyly, whispering, "You don't sound too confident, sweetness." His fingertips wrapped around to the nape of your neck. "How about a little help in the shower, hm?" He took a few steps toward you, leading you backwards into the bathroom, closing the door behind him.

"Y-your..." you stuttered, as you gathered the strength to look up into his lusty eyes. "...your friends will hear us."

He leaned in, his lips as close as an inch from yours. "Not if you can stay nice and quiet for me, yeah?" He reached for the hem of your ripped tee, pulling it past your beautiful curves, up and off, his eyes roaming all over your bare skin.

With a little blush, you chuckled softly as you stepped over the edge of the enormous bathtub into the shower. You faced the head, exhaling as the warm flow of water soaked into your hair.

Megumi stepped in behind you, observing how beautifully the water cascaded down your curves. He wrapped his hands around your waist, gliding his fingertips softly across your skin, sliding them up to cup your breasts as he gently fondled your nipples.

Your body immediately buckled under his touch. You arched your back, pressing yourself against his hard length as he explored you with his hands. They followed the flow of the water, traveling down to massage your clit and folds, already soaked from both the water and your response to his gentle fingers, making your moans far too difficult to avoid.

"Shhhhh..." he whispered, as his lips gently pressed into your earlobe, the soft smack sending shivers all over your body as he slipped his thick dick back and forth between your thighs and two of his fingers from his other hand in your mouth.

"Mmmhhh," you moaned, having a hard time containing yourself.

Megumi could tell you were already so close. His tongue slid across your ear as he breathed, "Let me in before you cum, sweetness..." His breath hotter than the temperature of the water and his voice tickling as it vibrated in your ear.

Already quite dazed, you parted your quivering thighs a bit more, planting your foot on the edge of the tub, welcoming him.

As Megumi bent his knees for the perfect amount of leverage, he covered your mouth as he thrusted hard, pushing his entire length inside. He screwed his eyes shut, pressing his head into your neck as he grunted, his arm wrapped around you, holding you in place. "Mmmm! Fuuuck..."

Your entire body tensed as your walls gripped him pulling him further inside. You struggled to contain your sensual moans that managed to leak past Megumi's fingers as your eyes fluttered shut.

He paused for a moment, his breaths hitching in his throat as his body quivered, basking in the warmth of your slick heat. He slowly pulled out, then thrusted back in harder, again, and again, and again, quickly pushing himself, and you to the edge.

His left hand left your mouth, and wrapped around your neck, his right arm held you firmly as your sopping wet core received him, his thrusts hitting your sweet spot both relentlessly and deliciously. Your hands clutched his slender, yet muscular forearms as he maintained his grip.

Megumi's groan vibrated deeply in your ear, "Cum for me beautiful... cum all over my cock..." as he held you firm around your neck, firm in your hole, and firm around your waist, his strong embrace causing you to erupt from the depths of your core as he clutched you steady.

He released into your womb, your arousal blended beautifully with his, running down your legs with the flow of the water. His lips smashed into yours, his tongue massaging yours in another deeply passionate kiss as he pumped the remnants of spend into your core, savoring being nestled inside you as if it would be his last time.

*~*~*~*~*

As you finish gathering yourself and all of your things, you hear happy, cheerful voices on the other side of the door, along with

Destiny - Zero 7

floating on the airwaves into the room with the aroma of fresh pancakes and bacon.

You finally emerge from the master suite, still feeling the need to catch your breath after Megumi successfully took it away for the second time. You see the members of the band, hanging out in the kitchen around the table having breakfast.

As comfortable as you were becoming around Megumi, it felt terribly awkward. Almost as if you were attending an event, uninvited. You weren't a part of this band and, without the veil of alcohol, your presence felt a little more ... intrusive.

Not to mention, you were awfully loud last night... or... this morning. Surely someone heard you.

You wondered if you could creep past them unnoticed, but also hoped for quick eye contact with Megumi.

Choso caught you first. "Hey singer!"

He yelled from the kitchen with a mouth full of pancakes, kinda blowing your stealthy cover as you slinked your way toward the front door. "You get what you came for?" he flashed a big smile at you, quite satisfied with himself.

Asshole.

You cut your eyes at him, then nodded toward the door of his room. "Did they?" you asked as you flashed a phony smile back at him.

"You're damn right they did." he said, followed by an obnoxious laugh.

You shook your head, unable to hide your giggle.

Megumi made his way over to you. His hair lacking spikes since the shower, layered in wispy strands over his eyes, the strands in the back curving gently around toward his neck. He saunters over in baggy grey sweatpants, and a crisp white V-neck tee, contrasting beautifully with his black hair and dark blue eyes, looking like a fucking breakfast platter himself. "You're leaving?"

"Yeah... I've actually got a lot to do today so I'd better get home." Yeah, a 'lot'. Like escaping the embarrassment of being his groupie for the night, for starters.

"Okay." He said, "I'll walk you out."

"No, you don't have to. I've already called an Uber. It's outside."

"I'm walking you out." He insisted, slipping on shoes at the door.

You smiled, pressing your lips into a flat line.

You walked down the long carpeted hallway relatively quietly as Megumi trailed behind you. You both stepped into the elevator, maintaining a "healthy" distance while inside.

He stood on the opposite side of the metal box, his eyes observing your demeanor before traveling up to the illuminated numbers at the top of the doorway as he muttered, "I enjoyed your company." glancing back your way, flashing a killer smile.

It felt as if all you could do was blush, since it seemed everything you needed to say was successfully expressed in the shower this morning, and in the glow on your face.

You got downstairs and he held out his hand. "Your phone."

You fumbled through your satchel, unlocking it and gracefully handed it over.

He added his number. "Our next show is in about a week. You think you'll come?"

You smiled warmly, "Sure."

"Alright." He huffed with a smirk, giving you one last once-over. "See ya, sweetness."

*~*~*~*~*

You sat in your cozy breakfast nook, so glad to finally be back in your personal space as you took another sip of ginger tea, staring out the window, listening to

Coral - Fractures.

Nobara continued to request more info from you over the phone. "It's his birthday. Don't you at least want to see him for a little bit?"

"Nah... I really dont". You answered. Feeling a tiny wound open somewhere in the recesses of your heart.

"I just... I don't want to deal with what might come with it. There's always something, you know? He always finds a way ... to hurt me."

"I agree. But... you can love him from a distance, right? See him, say hi, ask how he's doing, set a time limit, honor it, and leave."

"He's such a chore to be around sometimes you know?" you whined.

"Tch, yeah." she huffed. "I understand. I mean, I've never experienced it to that degree, but I get it. I'm just saying, maybe do this small part. For you. Not that you have anything to prove, but he'll never be able to say you weren't the best daughter to him."

"Okay. I'll go."

Narcissists are the worst. People talk about them a lot these days, but unfortunately for you, you had to deal with a few your entire life. One covert, and one overt. Let alone your grandparents.

As far as relationships go, you had always been a people pleaser. A "yes" girl so to speak, yet never receiving the same regard in return. The result of constantly having to work for attention at home, and a fear of abandonment. Without even realizing it, you developed a habit of being "nice" out of necessity.

Nobara brought love to you in a way that you hadn't known. That's why she's your best friend. No matter what, she always cared for you. She never demanded anything from you besides you being yourself. And you cherished her.

Itadori turned out to be the same. It was the first time in your life that you had found people who truly loved you. Genuinely. Without strings or stipulations.

The irony was though, sometimes you still felt bad, as if you loved them because they love you... Weird right? Of course that's not the only reason you love them, but it still felt like an unintended condition within no conditions. Life is so bizarre.

Your dad was a musician. A damn good one. But his ego was more than excessive. He worked hard, learned guitar, keys, lead several bands and taught many vocalists over the years, including you.

His image was important to him. He worked hard to make a name for himself. As a result, many well-known, musicians in the area knew him well. He'd likely be remembered if he were mentioned at any popular music hall.

You sang on numerous projects he worked on; albums, events, shows, etc. and loved working with him, in the beginning. It felt wonderful to see your dad work so hard and be so happy doing what he loved. He was undeniably talented and you supported him genuinely, just because.

However, when the time came for you to work on projects of your own, something that would support your career as a solo artist, he wasn't there. He didn't have the time or the drive to help. Before long, you noticed that as far as he was concerned, you and your talents were to be used only for his benefit.

And forget communication. Whenever you saw him, he talked only about himself. For hours sometimes, never really asking about you. If you interject or attempt to add to the conversation, maybe you get a word in edgewise, but then it's back to him. All about him.

Doubtful he knows much about who you really are; your likes, dislikes, how you've been, your friends names, etc. Even now.

It was truly exhausting dealing with him.

As a result, you just kept your distance. Set boundaries that would work for your life. It often felt selfish to you, but you came to realize that your mental health is important too, so you do what you can.

Nobara taught you the meaning of self-care. She knew how to have a healthy balance in life of caring for others, and not neglecting herself in the process.

That's something you were still learning.

"Try to think of it as going to a hospital to visit a mental patient." Nobara continued, "The reality is, he doesn't deserve special treatment. And it'd be a miracle if he changed. But you deserve to do what you love. And you love to love. So do it. For you. And sort of for him because really, we all need it. Even the assholes."

You chuckled, "Thanks bestie."

"By the way... Are we gonna talk about 'The Rockstar'?"

You went silent, not having the slightest idea where to start, your heart immediately skipping a beat at the mention of him.

"Oh my god, girl I can hear you blushing from here! Hahaha! What the hell happened to you last night? I was looking all over for you!"

"He's... really great. Amazing actually." you said with a giggle.

"Yea?" She whispered, "Did you stick around?"

"Um..." you uttered with a tiny huff.

"You did!!! Ha! Yaaas! Was it that fire or was it that fire? 'Cause I know it was that fire." She wailed.

"An inferno, sis. oh my gawd. Nothing like it." You let out a heavy sigh.

"Buuuuuut ...?" she questioned.

"Tch, I don't know... I feel like I moved way too fast with him. It's not like having sex makes a relationship or anything, you know?"

"Girl, I think he really likes you whether he realized it the first night or not. Don't over think it. And don't underestimate yourself. You're gorgeous, sweet, and talented. He can see that. If it's happening, just let it happen."

You took a deep breath... "Yeah." You continued, "But... how do I know he doesn't just see me as the girl who screwed him on the first night? It'd be so embarrassing to keep coming around, if that's how I'm perceived."

"Did he ask you to come to the next show?"

"Yeah, and... Oh! By the way," you said, as something hit your memory." he received quite the persistent phone call this morning before I left".

"What do you mean 'persistent'"?

"Woke me up blowin' up his phone. Repeatedly."

"Really? Was it his mom?"

"You chuckled, if I were to guess, I'd say no. Do you remember he answered his phone at the table when we ate pizza?"

"Uh.. No...?"

"Anyway, I'd bet any amount of cash it was that person. Somebody by the name of Nanako. She didn't seem to want to take 'no', or 'wait' for an answer. I'm curious if he's dating her".

"Oh wow. Well, that explains some of your hesitance about him."

"Hm?... I hadn't thought of that. I mean, we just met, so I wasn't expecting him to not have anybody in his life, but... I have zero complaints if he cuts 'em off. Ha!"

"Okay!" Nobara agreed. "But look, if he thought you were just a one-off, he definitely wouldn't have invited you back. You need more information about this mystery woman before drawing conclusions."

"You smiled and sighed. Yeah, I suppose you're right."

A vibration interrupts your call, as you notice one coming in from another line.

"Hey, I have to take this. I'll see you later at the bar, K?

"Ok".

You look at the screen and notice it's your boss.

"Hello?" you answered, confused.

"Hey, do you have a minute?" He asks.

"Of course. What can I do for you, Sir?"

"Something's come up. We have a few classes we have to conduct overseas for some new recruits. We're putting together a team to head over and do the training. I know its a little out of the blue, but you're one of my most capable. I was hoping you'd join us."

"Um... Wow? I'm not sure I can do that on such short notice."

"Look, I'm sorry about the time frame, but this is a really important project that needs to be done to help sales and production. You're one of my best. I really need you on this. I'll double your pay for the eight weeks you're there."

"What? Eight weeks?!"

"Yeah. In India. We're conducting two courses, four weeks each. You'll get room and board while you're there, plus some excellent experience to add to your resume. You won't regret it, I promise. I'm really sorry to spring this on you, but some of the others, they have kids, families -- they've already solidified schedules that make it next to impossible for me to get them to help out. I only have a few I can really depend on for support. Please, I'm begging you. I really need your help."

Really? Now I'm on call? …

This is a lot of money, though, so you decide it's worth the sacrifice. "Okay, Mr. Geto. I'll do it."

"Aaaaah! Thank you so much. We leave in a week."

"Okay."

Damn.

*~*~*~*~*

At this point, It had been a few days since you'd seen Megumi. You wondered how he was doing. Knowing what you know about him, he's probably preparing well to make a great impression at the next show.

For now, they're doing covers, so its not like they can play the exact same sets every show for the same venue. Which means they have to practice and memorize music from other artists, and try hard to make sure the audience appreciates it.

As hard as he's working, he's likely having some crazy rehearsals. You could totally see him busting everyone's balls as their leader.

"Over here!" You waved at Nobara as you sat in the middle of your favorite sushi bar, waiting for her and Yuji to meet for dinner.

Process - H.E.R.

played on their system. Fresh food and warm sake is a cure-all for sure, and you were more than excited to indulge.

"Can you believe this, girl?" You said to Nobara as you roll your eyes.

"Oh god, no. That's crazy. And such short notice?" She said as she sat next to you at the square table. "Couldn't they find someone else?"

"Apparently not." you shook your head, "All the trainers with preset family-oriented schedules couldn't help. And I wont be back for two whole months."

"Wow. It's good money though right?" Nobara asked with a deep frown.

"Great money. But... I really wish I could see Megumi's show. That turnout was crazy on their first night. I can't imagine how the next one'll be."

"Yeah. But Since they're doing so well, you'll see more soon."

"I guess you're right. My plane leaves the night of the show at 7."

"Hmmm... did you tell him you're leaving?"

"Not yet."

"Why not?"

"He's busy getting ready for his next performance. He doesn't need his groupie chasing him down."

"Girl if you don't pick up that phone and call him, Nanako will."

"Stop it. Haha!"

"I'm, serious! Don't underestimate persistence, girl!" She said, rolling her eyes. "It's not like you're stalking him. Just drop him a line and let him know what's what."

"Ok, I guess I'll do that at least."

Itadori had just walked in, checking for your presence at the door. He finally saw you and walked over.

"Hey guys." He sat at the table smiling brightly.

"Hey Dori. It's good to see you." You smiled back. "How's everything at the bar?"

"It's going great. Kinda crazy though. Megz's show nearly sold out."

"What? Are you kidding me?!?"

"I kid you not. The tickets are 50 bucks, too."

"Wow! He really is becoming a rock star."

"Tell me about it. And with that kinda turnout, I'm gettin' a nice bag, too." He said, all excited. "I visited a rehearsal yesterday. They're gonna do a couple originals."

"Oh my god! That's amazing!" you exclaimed, freaking out a little.

"Yeah, I know right? If they're received well, pretty soon he'll have grown out of this venue. Of course that depends on how much more music he plans to make. But they also have to start thinking about which cities to hit next. Can't just be known in your hometown you know?"

"True. That's tough, too. Some crowds are really hard to work with. Especially if they don't know you." you grumbled from experience.

"Yeah, there is that part." Yuji agreed. "So what happened to you last night?"

You looked at him and said with a straight face, "Megumi happened."

"HA! I figured as much." he laughed.

"Tch, yeah that's what I told her. Apparently it went well though, right?" Nobara added, nodding toward you. "but, she kinda thinks Megumi sees her as a groupie."

"Yeah, no. Megz doesn't do groupies."

"What? Yeah right. Since when do guys not hook up with girls who throw themselves at them?" you inquired, since you, apparently, were one of them.

"Yea. What even makes you say that?" Nobara chimed.

Itadori went on, "I mean, he's kinda different. More … serious. He doesn't like to start ventures he's not planning to finish, and as long as I've known him, that includes women."

"I find that hard to believe." you said, chalking his advice up to him just being a good friend to his "boy".

"Yeah well, he's been like that since we were kids. He's always been driven, always wanted things to go well for himself. Which means keeping distractions to a minimum."

"Hm, I guess that's logical..." You shrugged. "Except the fact that anybody who wants to be an hoe can be a hoe. I'm just sayin."

Nobara looked at you with a "you-got-that-shit-right" face.

"Ha! Well, that's true. Buuut... situationships like that can ruin a career. Especially from where he's sittin'. Think about it. What if he got with the wrong kinda girl? Someone who brought drama or bullshit to his business, or his band. He could run the risk of losing everything. It's not worth it to him. And I can't say I blame him."

"Hmm... well, what about Choso? He doesn't seem to have a problem with that kinda thing." you pointed out.

"Yeah, well Choso's a different breed." Itadori huffed, "He's also not the leader of the band. If Megumi wanted to, he could just hire another singer. Also, Choso might act like an ass sometimes, but he's actually a great guy, and pretty serious about his friends, too. We didn't hear much from his girls last night did we?"

You frowned, "Now that you mention it, no. Not a damn peep." chuckling at that revelation.

"Megumi's a good guy. Just keep talking to him. You'll see. Communication is key and all".

"Okay. Thanks for the insight, Dori." You didn't expect him to talk shit about his boy, but... you were grateful for the info.

"Yup. You're such an overthinker. Its okay, though. I get it. But just remember, people usually think more of you than you think they do. Just relax. It'll work itself out."

"You smiled warmly at Itadori , and turned to Nobara. "Wow. You're a lucky girl, you."

"You'd better believe it." She smiled brightly and winked at him.

Itadori held his chin up as he chewed his edamame with a huge grin on his face.

You all finished your meal and parted ways.

As you approached the train station, you decided you might as well hit him up.

You: Hey Rockstar. Just dropping a line that I got called away to work. I'll miss the show :(

Not 3 minutes later, he texted you back.

Megumi: Called away?

You: Yeah. Its kinda nuts. Going to India for 2 months😅.

Megumi: Whoa. That is nuts. I was looking forward to playing for you. 😢

You: lol For me?

Megumi: Yea, for YOU.

You: Aww... Dont worry. You'll have plenty of screaming girlies out there.

Megumi: Just one screaming girlie will do. 😌

You: 🤭 Can't make money that way.

Megumi: Ha! No cap.

Megumi: So when do you get to India?

You: Plane leaves at 7, the night of your show. Takes a couple days.

Megumi: Call me after you get settled in there?

You: Sure. But... Won't you be busy?

Megumi: Maybe, but I'll make time.

Damn charmer.

You: Okay. I'll do that. ttyl

*~*~*~*~*

You got in to your hotel a full 2 days after you left home. You slept quite a bit on the plane, but were eager to wind down from being cramped in that tin can. You took a shower and headed out, since there was a restaurant on the beach where a few of your colleagues agreed to go.

You sat alone at a table, ordered a fire curry appetizer and decided to give Megumi a call since you were nice and relaxed. The restaurant played some pretty chill music.

Snooze - SZA

Megumi didn't answer.

Must surely be busy.

Your phone rang less than 5 minutes later.

"Hey. How's India?"

Your smile grew wide the second you heard his voice. "Hey... They have us set up in a beautiful hotel here in Chennai. Right now, I'm at a beachfront restaurant having curry and a delicious pineapple cocktail."

"Woooow … How nice for you." he said as he laughed quietly. "Sounds like more of a vacation than work."

You chuckled, it may feel like that now, but I'm sure it'll get quite busy here soon."

"Well, its evident that you're quite the amazing woman to have them not only depend on you, but offer that kind of treatment."

"Hey beautiful. Is anyone sitting here?" A stranger asks, stopping at your table, his hand on one of the empty chairs.

You answered, "No, But I'm actually on the phone."

"Is it your man?" the stranger asked.

"Um... no... but. I don't need any company right now, thank you."

"You sound so sweet, rejecting him." he teased. "Why didn't you tell him I'm your boyfriend?"

"Tch, because you're not?" You rolled your eyes, chuckling playfully.

He snickers over the phone. "Well damn. It'll suck for me if you get one while you're there."

"Oh yea? Why is that?"

"Because then I won't have a chance."

"A chance for what exactly?"

"To finish what we started."

"Oh okay..." you giggle. "We'll see if there's anything left of you when I get back after all those amazing shows. Your fan base is gettin crazy."

"You think so huh?"

"Of course. You're quite the phenom on the drums. And Maki... geez. All of y'all are fantastic and I'm not just gassin'. I couldn't imagine you not makin' it big."

You could hear his smile over the phone. You really missed his smile. Interestingly enough, you started to notice how good making him feel good felt to you."

"Well, thank you. We're working pretty hard."

"I bet. And... you're performing originals? How did that go at the show?"

"Better than expected, actually. We tried tracking requests for availability and got good results. We decided to go ahead and release an EP at the next show."

"Woooow... I sincerely hope you go real far, real fast. But I gotta admit, I'll miss these conversations, Rockstar."

"'Rockstar'?" Megumi huffed, "Is that how you think it is?"

"Oh yeah."

One of your colleagues yelled out to you. "Hey! You comin' to the beach with the group?" As the next song played.

Whoa - Snoh Aalegra

"Is that the same guy?" Megumi asked, curious.

"Nope, that's someone else."

"Sounds like you're more popular than you think I am."

"Yeah, right." you replied. Hmmm... now's as good a time as any, you thought. "So, did you get a chance to call Nanako back?" You asked, as you took a considerably large gulp of your Malibu Pineapple.

Megumi paused for a moment before answering. "I figured you saw that. I guess you heard the phone that morning huh?"

"How could I not. Seemed pretty urgent."

"Nanako's my ex." He let out a deep sigh. "She's uh... she's trying to rekindle things and I'm just not interested."

"Why not?"

"We don't see eye to eye. I met her at college. Through Yuta. We even dated for about a year."

"That's a long time. Why'd it end?"

"She thought I was crazy for wanting to have a solo career in music. She felt I should stick with my professors, maybe work with their connections in orchestras before pursuing an independent goal so 'lofty'. Tch. That's what she called it... 'lofty'."

"Yikes. I could see how that's a problem."

Megumi huffed. "Yeah. I mean, we had a decent relationship, I just... she didn't believe in me."

"Hmmm... I'm sorry to hear that."

"It's cool. I mean, it's over. That's not gonna change."

You understand the persistence an ex can be on sometimes, but like Nobara said, that could easily become an issue. And drama is definitely not your thing.

"I'm better off with people who are in my corner." Megumi continued. "Even my parents supported me when a lot of others thought I was just dreaming."

"Yeah? That's good. And definitely not something to take for granted."

"For sure." He agreed. "So you said you sing?"

"Yeah. I tried for a long time. Even laid a couple tracks down." you revealed.

"Whoa. Where are they?" Megumi asked, actually sounding excited.

"I have 'em stored at home, and of course in a file on my computer and a couple drives to avoid losing 'em."

"Can I hear them?"

"Well, they're not mixed... so ... they're really just a little music with my vocals I laid on them in pretty raw form."

"Oh I definitely wanna hear."

"Okay. But you know artists aren't supposed to distribute material that isn't registered. I mean, what if you steal it?" you joked.

"I would never." he breathed, a cute low laugh escaping his lips.

You giggled. "Of course you can hear. I'd actually love to know what you think. Though I'm kinda nervous."

"Will you sing for me in person? It'll be like a private concert."

"Ha! Even so, I'd still be super nervous. I think singing in front of one person is more nerve wracking than a crowd."

"Makes sense. One pair of eyes can be a lot more critical. But there's no need to be nervous. It's just me."

"Yea... just you." you chuckled.

"What do you mean?"

"You're a professional. I'd hate to make a fool of myself, so I'd better be able to actually sing before I present something to you."

"I get that. But in my experience, most people who can't sing don't get as far as putting anything on a track. I'm willing to bet you're pretty good. Besides, we're friends now so its not like I'd be rude to you."

"Oh we're friends now?"

"Of course. What? You don't wanna be friends with me?"

"Sure 'Megz'."

"Oh, is that what we're doing now?" he snickered, playfully. "You're calling me 'Megz'?"

"Ha! Yea. Your friends call you 'Megz' right?"

"Tch... only the good ones." He replied, with a blush you couldn't see. "I'll allow it."

"Oh, well thank you very much sir." you retorted sarcastically.

"So … now I'm curious. Why didn't you continue your music? Did you lose interest?"

"No, I just... honestly felt like I was always on my own. I worked with my dad for years. Singing in concerts, leads on his songs at events and performances. He just didn't support me the way I supported him. Life's a lot harder when you're going at it alone, you know?"

"Hmmm... Do you still talk to your dad?"

"Yea. As a matter of fact he's having a birthday dinner when I get back. I was reluctant to go, but..."

"You don't want to?"

"He's … severely narcissistic. Usually when I see him, he sits and chats about himself. He doesn't really have much interest in me. He's often rude, belittling, dismissive... It's been a while since we've talked. I plan to go and say hi, but..." You rolled your eyes.

"That's tough. I'm sorry to hear that."

"Yea, it is. But, thank goodness for Nobara and Yuji. They've been so great to me. Nobara has helped me through some difficult times dealing with my dad."

"Well, I'm rooting for you. And I hope it goes well."

"Thanks Megumi. I really appreciate that coming from you."

Mr. Geto waved at you to come over to a table with colleagues for a quick word. "Well, I gotta for now. It's good to hear your voice. I hope all your rehearsals go well."

"Can I call you tomorrow?" He asked, hopeful.

"Of course!" you replied warmly. "Talk to you later."

*~*~*~*~*

'Tomorrow' came and went.

He texted you, but you couldn't talk.

The next day was the same.

They had you working crazy hours, and the communication barrier was difficult to navigate with the trainees, making you so much more exhausted after each session.

You were physically and mentally drained. You texted periodically, but by the time you were finally able to settle down and chat with your friends again, long enough for a decent conversation, it had already been 3 weeks.

Megumi had dived into tons of rehearsals with his band, especially on weekends, working hard on originals he'd planned to release in another show they would do, so his calls couldn't come as often either.

You were able to chat with Nobara, mostly during lunch breaks, but phone tag between you and Megumi became an ongoing thing. And you were too tired most evenings to talk long.

You were finally able to reach each other for a reasonable amount of time in the middle of week 4. You had meetings and classes that day, and Megumi was in rehearsal.

"When do you think I can see you?" Megumi questioned during a break as his group discussed some intricate parts of a song.

"Uh... I won't be back unt-"

"I mean, tonight. When I call you back. Can you video chat?"

You blushed. "Um... It'll probably be really late but, sure. Of course."

"That's cool." he said, "I'll be looking forward to it."

*~*~*~*~*

It was another long day. By the time you got home, it was almost 10pm. You were exhausted, but still anxious to talk to him. As soon as the door to your room closed behind you, you dropped your things, opened up the app and set up your laptop at the small office table in front of the moonlit window, facing you. You popped on your music:

Finesse - Drake

You relaxed your mind, took a deep breath, and called him.

"Hello?" after a moment of him fidgeting with the screen, his beautiful face appeared.

"Heeeeeey". You said as softly as possible, trying to contain your enthusiasm, a warm smile spread across your face the moment you saw his.

He sat at what appeared to be a desk, gazing.

There was a long moment of silence as you bit your lip, blushing, waiting for him to speak.

"How are you?" he said finally, peircing you with his eyes.

"Glad to be back here." You said, still smiling, taking a deep breath. You were so happy to see his dark blues again. "Where are you?" You noticed it looked like an office space.

"At my studio."

"What?" you said, shocked. "You have a studio? I totally assumed you guys just booked one."

"Nah. I rent it out to others to use from time to time. That's one of the reasons I get so busy. I cash in on the profit from bands renting from me, but the space itself is actually paid for by my parents."

"Wow."

"Yup, as long as I don't stop working. That was our agreement ever since I left college. I continue to work toward my dream, they'll help support the cause. They've been great."

You held such admiration for him. "You always fascinate me." you muttered, shaking your head. "You're such a pro."

Megumi smirked and blushed, "Are you still working?" He asked, noticing you're clad in your long sleeve button down blouse, and ... glasses? "You look so... corporate."

"Yeah, tell me about it." You chuckled, rolling your eyes. "I'm a little exhausted, but, I feel so much better now that I get to relax."

"If I were there, I could help you relax."

"Heh, oh I'm quite sure you could." you said, resting your head on your palm.

Megumi 's eyes scanned your features as he leaned back in his office chair at his desk, dropping his hands into his lap as he swiveled side to side slowly. All expression but adoration had gone from his features. "You are so damn beautiful".

His complement only made you blush harder. "Thank you. I'm not exactly comfy yet though until I get out of these stuffy clothes."

You looked at Megumi staring at you, not making a sound, or responding. The tension between the two of you quickly became palpable.

"Okay. Go ahead." he said, breaking the silence.

You squinted into the screen. "Go … ahead?"

"Yeah. You said you needed to take off your clothes. Go ahead."

He'd caught you off guard. You averted your eyes suddenly. "Um..." you laughed nervously. "I can't do that."

Megumi smirked, entertained at how cute you were getting all flustered. "Well, why not?"

"Because"... you replied, "What if someone sees?"

"I promise you, I'd never let that happen. This is my office. And right now, I'm the only one here." He licked his lips, still swiveling lightly in the chair. "The doors are locked. The front door and the office door. Sometimes I even sleep here."

"Oh... wow." you replied.

Thorough.

You watched him swivel as his hands moved beneath the view of the camera, under his desk as he waited patiently for you. His eyes never leaving your face.

Another song played as you locked eyes with him, drowning in his blues.

Autumn's Dreamland - A.G. Sully

His resolve never faltered. Not even slightly. He was so intimidating sometimes. Such a fucking boss. And you loved it.

You maintained eye contact as you reached up for the buttons of your blouse, undoing them slowly, one by one. The light from your laptop and of the moon glowed softly across your bare skin, more of it coming into view as you opened each one.

He stopped swiveling, once you reached the fourth, getting a peek at your hot pink satin bra covered in lace, showing from underneath. His bottom lip disappeared into his mouth, his gaze fixed.

"Are you sure I'm not distracting you from your work?"

"100% certain." He leaned into his computer with his left fist pressed into his mouth and his elbow propped up on the desk. His right hand stayed out of view.

You removed your top, revealing your beautiful lingerie, and reached up to remove your glasses.

"Leave them on." Megumi urged. "Please."

You smiled, biting your lip, running your fingers down the left side of your neck and your shoulder slowly as you watched him take you in.

"That looks like a cozy spot you have there." he said, as he peeked behind you. "Why don't you go relax on the bed?"

You turned, looking at the bed, then back to him as you blushed, realizing where this is quickly headed. You flash him a coy smirk, "Okay."

You took the laptop with you and propped it up on a stack of books on the bedside table so that he could view the bed and you clearly.

"Good girl." He said, with a smile.

Your face turned pink as you saw his beautiful smile. "You're such a tease Megumi."

"Am I?" He replied, eyebrows raised. "Who says I'm teasing?"

You cut your eyes at him, suspicious.

"You gonna finish undressing for me?"

"Really?" you huffed, kinda surprised at yourself for doing this.

"Oh Absolutely. I told you. I wanna see you. All of you." He replied.

"Can I? Please?" he requested with a smirk curling up into the side of his adorable pouty lips that made you practically melt.

My god... what is this man doing to me?

Megumi spoke as though he heard your thoughts, "If you really don't want to, you don't have to. But... I really, really want you to."

You paused for a moment, but stayed locked into his gaze as you pulled your ponytail holder from your hair, shaking it out. You stepped back from the camera so he could get a better look. You unbuttoned and unzipped your slacks, the lace top of your matching pink undies peeking out of them.

"Hmmm..." Megumi lets out a soft moan from behind the screen as he observes your movements with hooded eyes, slowly rubbing his lips with the back of his fingers, and bites down on his left thumb.

You lean into the screen, your cleavage being the only thing he sees for a moment while you shimmy out of your pants. They drop quickly, pooling around your heels.

Megumi's eyes widen. "You're wearing heels, too?!"

"Of course. I was working today." You smirk as you step back further from the camera to show him the black heels with pink soles you wore to work.

"Wow. You're stunning. I see why the guys there can't let you spend a moment alone. Can't say I blame them though. I wouldn't either."

You giggle playfully as you twirl around in your glasses, lingerie and heels.

"Oh my god … you're so gorgeous". He mutters as he's sitting there with his hand left covering his mouth. His right hand still under the table as his right arm moves ever so slightly.

You sit on the bed, peering at him, curiosity painted on your face. "What are you doing?" you giggled.

"Nothing." he lied.

"I don't believe you."

"I'm watching you, sweetness."

"Yea? But what else?" you asked, licking your lips, pressing your cleavage together as you got closer to the camera, the next song played softly:

Waterfall (I adore You) - Yebba

Megumi smirks, as if there was a small chance he didn't want you to know what he was actually up to. "Well... you have quite the affect on me. I'm enjoying the view."

"Can I see?"

"Can you see what?" he asked, teasing, but also knowing he wanted nothing more than for you to tell him.

"The affect I have on you."

"You have to say the magic word."

"Pleeeeease, Megumi?"

The moment you said that, his dick pulsed in his pants.

"May I see? Pretty please?" you begged, peeking over your glasses.

Now dying to show you, Megumi pushed his seat back from the computer, his enormous print chiseled into his dark denim jeans. He leaned back in the chair with his legs parted, propping his elbow up on the arm while his right hand groped his large bulge.

You could hardly contain your gasp as you saw him. You blushed hard and licked your lips, your core clenched so tightly you rubbed your thighs together as you body tingled all over. You turned away, gently rubbing the nape of your neck.

Megumi missed nothing. "You're hiding from me again." He scolded. I told you not to do that. You like what you see?"

Your heart pounded hard in your chest as you replied softly, "Yes."

"Then why don't you be a good girl and show me how much you like it?"

Your desire for him surged through every part of you in an instant. Pure want and arousal began to show up all over your face.

You moved back away from the screen, positioning yourself in the middle of he bed, leaning back on your palms, rubbing your legs together.

"There's my girl. Now open up those legs for me."

Your heart felt as if it would pound right out of your chest. Your body temperature rose steadily as he spoke. Need coursing hot through your veins as you breathing became heavier.

Why does this man have such an affect on me?

"Whats the matter, sweetness?' Megumi teased, seeing your reaction, and realizing you were no more immune than he was.

"I'm. . ." you opened your legs up slowly. Your cute pink undies revealed a spot slightly darker in color than the rest of the fabric.

Megumi suddenly began breathing heavier himself. "Mmhh...You're wet." his tongue peeked out from the corner of his parted lips.

"Yes." you breathed.

He leaned in to the screen, resting his mouth between his thumb and first finger. "Why is that? Hm?"

"I... I don't know." You began to squirm on the bed as your body betrayed you, refusing to conceal your feelings. Your eyes grew heavier.

"Sure you do."

Your pupils widened as adrenaline coursed through your body.

"Is there something you want?" Megumi asked, softly.

"Yes."

"What do you want?"

"I want … Megumi."

"Yea? And what do you want from me exactly?"

"I want Megumi... to touch me."

"Touch you where?"

You slid your hand from you hip, around to your inner thigh, sliding your fingers slowly up you middle, flinching as you touched your clit, throwing your head back.

Megumi's eyelids lowered slowly as he felt the adrenaline coarse through him. "You want me to touch you there? With what?" His voice, soft and low.

"With … with your hands." you moaned.

"And what else? Do you want anything else?"

"Yes."

"Tell me what you want from me. Tell me clearly, exactly what you want from me."

"I want... I want Megumi's cock. Inside me."

Megumi took a deep breath as he watched you rub your hot middle with your fingers. You breaths were deep and heavy, as you writhed in desire. In want, in need of him.

"I want Megumi here."

"Take off your panties and let me see you." Megumi breathed.

You did as you were told.

Your Interlude - Sabrina Claudio

Blended into the air as Megumi pushed his seat back again, spread his legs open, and unzipped his pants. He released his thick dick, rubbing it from base to tip in his large hand, his eyes glued to the screen, glazed over as he bit his lip. Arousal painted all over his face.

Seeing him touch himself, holding that beautiful cock completely outside of your reach, your body called out to him fiercely. You laid your back down on the bed as you squirmed, aching for his thickness to be pressed inside you.

You squeezed your legs together as you covered yourself with your hand in an attempt to satiate yourself.

"No, baby..." Megumi commanded. "Open up. . . I want you to open up nice and wide for me. Let me see that pretty pussy."

You opened your legs slowly, revealing to him that you're dripping onto the bed as you massaged yourself with your hand.

"Fuck. You're so wet, for me baby. I want you so bad."

"Haah... I want you, too." You begin moving your fingers around in circles on your throbbing clit, as your entire body begged for Megumi's touch. You arched your back, pressing your head into the soft bed. "I remember... how you felt."

Megumi's stroked his cock as he listened to the sound of your sweet voice, and watched you writhe in desire for him.

"I remember your hands as they touched me." You lifted your other hand, squeezing your breasts. "Your lips, on my clit... how they kissed and sucked me... haaaah... ~Megumi..."

Megumi's brow furrowed hard against itself as you called out to him. his dick was rock hard, throbbing against in his hands, pulsing and calling back to you, as he stroked himself to your beautiful body.

"Your … your tongue..." you moaned, "How you … licked me over and over. Megumi... please... I want you so bad."

Chills went up and down his spine and goosebumps covered his skin as he watched you pleasure yourself by mimicking with your hands all the things he did to you that night.

He gazed lecherously, white hot longing in his veins. He fisted his length, squeezing and panting, wishing your wet, throbbing pussy was covering him, pressing down on it. An insatiable thirst took over, to feel your slick heat take every inch of him in.

Your fingers, now sopping with your wetness, slipped into your hole as he watched. Your moans were music to his hears, pulling the same from his mouth as his entire body trembled with erotic fervor.

His eyes... his hands... his lips... so visible, yet unable to touch you, drove your desire to the brink of unbearable as you pumped your fingers in and out of your core.

Megumi couldn't take his eyes off you. Your sexy heels pressing into the bed, your pretty legs curving up to your hips, your hands massaging places he couldn't, the beautiful arch in your back, the line in your neck leading up to your soft lips that called out his name.

He wanted to take you so badly. To drive his thick dick deep into your cunt, pound you relentlessly, and fill you up, making you his.

His large hands moved even faster across his cock as his frustration built from watching you cum all on your own, from thoughts of him.

You both peaked as your arousal poured out all over your hands. Megumi squeezed and pulled his throbbing, aching cock until his come spilled all over his...

He came, right there in his office, wanting, needing, aching to be inside you.

You both stared into the camera, breathless, looking into each others eyes through the blue screen. Realizing yet again your indescribable yearning, your thirst for one another that can only be quenched by closing the distance.

"When you get back here," Megumi proclaimed, catching his breath, "I want you to come to me. Come straight to me."

"Yes," you promised. "I will."

*~*~*~*~*

It seemed that night, seeing him that way, made things much harder. If you weren't thinking of him before, that sure as hell wasn't the case now.

Megumi was always on your mind.

Unfortunately, you got even busier as you drew closer to the end of your stay in India. Your team was leaving soon, so they wanted to be sure they took full advantage of your presence there.

At this point, all you wanted was to just get home. You wanted to see him. By the time your last day there arrived, you could barely concentrate on work.

Texting wasn't anywhere near enough. And since he had a show every week now, he was even harder to reach.

It felt as though this man had taken over your every thought. You longed to feel his touch. His eyes. His presence.

Your thoughts of Megumi were clouding your mind, spreading throughout your body like the sound of music on airwaves.

And now, you were finally on your way home.

You touched down at about 3pm, and though you remembered your promise you were also tremendously exhausted. Tired after being tugged every direction from your superiors and subordinates, and now you could add jetlag to the mix on top of attending a dinner.

You decided to go straight home and get some rest so you'd be prepared for whatever fresh hell was waiting for you at this event.

You were irritable. Anxious. Uncomfortable. And you really didn't want to drag Megumi into it. You just wanted to get it over with and go home. You told yourself you'd call him when it was over.

You showed up at a beautiful 4 star restaurant at 7pm in the heart of the city, relatively close to the place Megumi would play tomorrow night.

Why cant I stop thinking about him?

I wish he were here with me.

You felt so desired with Megumi. But still felt like you needed to keep a safe distance. He's on the fast track to success, and you really didn't want to be a distraction to him in any way. Regardless of your level of intimacy, you genuinely cared about him.

You were torn between complete and utter submission to your feelings, and maintaining some semblance of control, for your sake, or for his... Or … both?

When you walked in to the restaurant, your dad's party was set up in a private room filled with around 25 people. He was sitting with his buddies, chatting at the long dining table. You gave him his gift and said hello as you leaned in to speak to your grandmother.

Take Me Home - The Paper Kites

Played on the system. "I don't like those kinds of dresses they really make me look fat." she said to you, completely disregarding any type of formal greeting. "Turn around so I can see the back." She said, grabbing your arm, spinning you like you were a display rack at a truck stop. "You really shouldn't wear that either." she insulted.

You were already aching to leave.

Your dad said hi, giving you an uncomfortably crushing hug, and introduced you to the table as his 'talented daughter'. "She's super talented, but not as good as me!" he laughs at himself.

You thought of what it must have been like to have supportive parents like Megumi's as you sat at the table to order dinner. It was extremely hard to imagine. His life is truly admirable.

After nearly an hour of backhanded compliments, blatant insults, being interrupted mid-sentence, and ignored during any moment you mentioned anything about you, you couldn't take any more.

You felt like you were suffocating, surrounded by mean people you had no choice but to be with. People who really didn't give a shit about you. And this was family. Asking for a normal conversation among them was like pulling teeth.

All the rude comments, disrespect and/or disregard for others your dad practiced, even to the people he called "friends", your grandmother dug right in and either defended him or egged him on with phony laughs, then would turn right around and talk shit about him to the person sitting next to her.

She spent a lot of time putting on this "sweet" and "harmless" persona in public, but constantly belittled and hurt people in private. But she always made sure her insults were dressed up with a smile.

You'd tried. God how you'd tried. Tried talking to him, and to her. Many times. Tried heart to hearts that always resulted in them either walking away and not taking responsibility, or accountability for their behavior, or simply gaslighting you for speaking on it.

And today, no way were they gonna trap you into making a complete fool of yourself in public for calling them out on bullshit they know they're doing. Only to be gaslit again.

It was enough. You couldn't breathe. "I gotta go, Dad." You walked out of the event, even as he and your grandmother were asking you to stay. The contrast between your friends and family was glaring.

As soon as the fresh air hit your face you felt a weight lifted. Like you were released from prison. You walked what felt like 2 miles down the street in your dress and heels not realizing your cheeks were colder due to tears pouring down your face.

Why are they always like this?

Now I really can't call him. I can't dump all this on him.

You hailed a taxi and made it home.

You found yourself calling Nobara as you settled inside, telling her how it went. You let her go after a few minutes, trying to keep yourself from burdening her too much with your problems, and cried yourself to sleep.

*~*~*~*~*

Today was Megumi's show.

You wanted to go. You really did but … you felt like you needed more rest. A break. From everything. From doing anything. Being anything right now was just too much. You just didn't want to deal with any more right now.

You missed him but didn't call him because you knew he'd be busy; Preparing for the show, the show itself, the after party.

But... he called you.

You didn't answer.

Obviously not because you didn't want to talk, but because if you did, the venting, the waterworks, the unloading would start. Nobara had put up with you for years, the poor thing. But... would Megumi even understand?

Would he even want to deal with me if he knew how fucked up I am?

And now, since you'd waited so long, you were afraid to talk to him, afraid that he'd maybe want to end things. You didn't want to hear that from him. Not him.

He was your inspiration. One of the few lights you had in this world that lit up your life with happiness and brightness and fun. You didn't want to do anything to ruin that.

And you didn't want to bring him down. Unloading your hurt on to him isn't fair. He has so much going for him, why disrupt that?

How could you?

Nobara called. You didn't answer her either.

I'll just let this day pass. I'm tired.

~I'll just give everyone a break from dealing with me.

You had planned to go out with Nobara again tomorrow. A girls night.

I'll see her then.

And I'll hopefully see him... later.

*~*~*~*~*

Nobara scolded you as you sat at the bar.

Roslyn - Ben Pellow

Played on the speaker. "I told you. When you're having trouble like that, you can come to me." She urged.

"I know, but... I don't wanna be a burden." you replied.

"Why would you think you'd be a burden? Besides, you can't decide that for me. I'm your friend. I don't want you suffering alone. I love you. I care about what happens to you. I want you to be safe and happy."

"I'm sorry. I just … they were so awful. And I mean, combined with the way I was feeling after coming back from that trip, I was far too overwhelmed."

"Yeah. I could imagine." Nobara started. "I did talk you into going. I'm sorry if I pressured you."

"Oh my god no, it's not that at all. Attending wasn't the issue. I just … need them to treat me better. Although that'll probably never happen." You said, fidgeting with the bottom of your wine glass.

She paused for a minute as she looked down stirring her drink with her straw. "Megumi... asked about you." She continued without looking up.

It didn't sound like a good report.

"He was wondering if you got home ok. Asked if we'd heard from you. I told him I'd meet with you today."

You looked at her, considering what she said about you not reaching out to her. You looked outside the window as it started to rain. Turns out you did the last thing you wanted to.

Tears began pooling in your eyes. "I uh … I disappointed him. Didn't I?"

Nobara bit her bottom lip as she took a breath. "Look, we're almost done here." she said, finally looking up.

"This is the address to his studio." She put it into your phone. "He asked me to have you come by after our dinner. It's pretty close to this place. "Shouldn't take more than 5 minutes by taxi."

"I cant leave you here alone. It's late."

"Dori's on his way."

"Oh. Okay." you plugged an Uber ride into your phone. "Thanks Nobara. I love you. And I'm sorry."

"I love you too. Talk to him. Okay?"

*~*~*~*~*

You stood outside of his studio looking at the door, actually scared to face him clad in your little black slip dress and heels you wore out with Nobara. The rain started coming harder, so you went ahead inside without waiting for someone to come to the door.

When you walked in, Megumi was at his kit, practicing

Lippincott - Animals as Leaders

He didn't notice you at first, considering how loud he was playing. His eyes were closed, he was in his zone. You approached him slowly, nervously, fidgeting as you drew closer.

It was like it had been an eternity since you'd seen him play, also as insane as it was, he'd actually improved. You creeped forward, watching in amazement as he pulled off some of the most complex beats you'd heard from him yet.

He was mesmerizing to watch.

God. He's even more beautiful than I remember.

He smashed the last beat, and stopped immediately when he saw you. He stood up from his kit, breathing heavily, biting his lip in silence as he stared at you.

You averted your eyes down toward your fidgety hands, his gaze and dominance consuming you, as it always does.

That powerful presence of his.

"Nobara, she..." you glanced at him, catching a glimpse of his dark blues for a moment before looking away again. "she said you wanted me to come here. I can see you're busy, so I can-" you pointed toward the door.

"No." Megumi propped his sticks across his snare and walked away from the set slowly toward you, stopping a foot away. He stared for a moment, panting a bit. "I'm fine."

You seriously had a hard time looking him in the eye.

"Nobara told me about what happened …" he started, his breathing slowing, compassion and softness in his tone, blending with the soothing sound of the rain patting the roof. "...with your dad. That you had a hard time. I'm sorry."

"It's um... it's nothing." you huffed as you shook your head.

"It's not nothing. It's something. And it matters. You matter."

You glanced up at him for a second as he spoke those words, working hard to fight back more tears. You could feel your body trembling. It's possible he could see it, too.

"Come with me". he said, leading you to another door adjacent to the large room he played the drums in.

It was the office you saw during your video chat. It was much bigger than you'd imagined. There was a large window on the back wall, opposite the door, covered with blinds and thick black curtains. His swivel chair was positioned in front of the window, facing his desk, where his computer sat.

"Wait here for a sec." he asked, as he disappeared out the office door.

There was a large, plush rug in the middle of the room, and directly in front of you, a few feet from the door, was the back of a huge fluffy black suede couch which faced his desk. It was enormous, a half sectional, and must have been the one he'd slept on. There was no coffee table in front of it, but 2 small tables on either side. In addition to a loveseat on the left, and a chair on the right.

Your eyes traveled up the walls, widening as you noticed they were covered with accolades of all kinds. Photos of him, with different artists, awards and plaques from high school to after college, along with documented achievements and signatures.

Megumi was far more accomplished than you'd ever known. Albeit not a surprise to you. Seeing that on his wall, in his office, was awe-inspiring. He's a formidable man. An amazing man. But... you knew that. Right from the start.

His speaker was on low, playing

Snoh Aalegra - Do For Love

as you heard him locking up the front before he made it back into the office and closed the door, also locking that behind him.

"Megumi, I just... I didn't want you to get the wrong impression of me. I couldn't just..." you trailed off, realizing you were just posturing.

"This sounds familiar. You told me you'd be here."

"I know. I'm sorry. I really didn't mean to lie." you expressed with genuine regret, fighting back more tears.

He stared at you for what felt like an eternity. Your eyes refused to make contact with his out of fear you'd start bawling.

"I thought about calling you. Maybe asking you to go with me and-"

"I would have." He interrupted. "I would've gone with you. Been there for you. I would have supported you."

"But you were busy... I didn't want to impose..."

"You can't decide that for me. That's my decision to make. My decision, if I'm too busy, or if what you say or do is too much. I decide if it's too much for me. Its not."

As he spoke, he noticed you constantly shying away from him. "Look at me. Please."

You lifted your face up slowly, your eyes reaching his last. The look on his face surprised you. Even pained you a little. He looked genuinely hurt. Concerned. A hard line formed between his brows, his eyes, searching yours for reason. "I missed you".

You felt your heart skip a beat and whispered, "I missed you, too. And I'm sorry".

"Do you? He muttered, "and … are you?" concern still apparent in his features.

You gazed up at him, taking a deep breath. "Of course."

The longing in his eyes was far more than apparent than any form of frustration. "Show me." he requested.

"Show you... what?" You squinted, confused.

"That you're sorry."

A series of questions flooded your mind.

What? - being the most obvious.

"Show me that you're sorry." He repeated, seeing the confusion in your eyes. "Take off your dress and kneel".

You flinched, as your eyebrows shot up "Excuse me?"

"You … were bad." His dark blues piercing a hole directly into your eyes, making it clear that he's kidding you not, apparently.

"You lied. You neglected me." he slowly took two steps back toward his desk, leaned against it, crossing his arms and legs. He repeated, "You said you're sorry. So... Take off your dress... and kneel."

You stood watching him for a moment, your lips slowly parted, mimicking a jaw drop as you stared. He was dead serious.

You were searching your brain for the reason you were actually, even for a second, considering doing what he asked - no - told you to do. After scraping your upper molars with your tongue, in awe of the sheer size of his balls, your body began to move … In obedience.

You raised your dress up past your hips, pausing for a moment. You looked up at him as if expecting him to stop you. He didn't.

He simply stood there, looking away, waiting for you to do as he asked. His blank expression giving you no indication of emotion.

You continued, sliding your dress up over your curves, revealing more of your smooth, bare skin in the dimly lit room.

You tugged it over your breasts then up over your head and around your hair as it flung over your right shoulder.

You then tossed it on to the chair as you stood revealed, covered only in your black lace lingere and black heels.

Megumi slowly turned his face back to look at you. As his eyes took you in, you hear something similar to a gasp as you looked down toward the floor.

He pushed himself off of his desk, his hands behind his back. He took two slow strides toward you, stopping at your chest just centimeters shy of your body. He turned his head toward you, his hot breath wafting down your neck as he whispered, "Kneel".

You did as you were told, lowering your body slowly, planting one knee after the other on to the carpet, facing the window.

He grabbed a pillow from the chair, dropping it lightly to the floor in front of you.

You leaned in, sliding your knees on the pillow, far too nervous - and embarrassed - to meet his gaze, still looking down to the floor.

Megumi walked around you slowly, his gaze like warm soft hands, exploring all over your body... that tangible gaze you loved, covering you, regardless of what he was doing.

What was he doing?

Is this a...

punishment?

or … a consequence of some sort?

"I told you to come to me." He started, his voice firm and resolute. "I said, 'come straight to me'. I would have taken care of you. Given you what you wanted, or needed. I wanted to see you... touch you. I wanted to be with you. That's something that only you could give me. You promised me you would, but you didn't. And now... you will."

He stood in front of you, his waist, mere inches from your face.

"Take off my belt."

Your heart was racing, you mind wandering. What is he planning? Yet... you could see his bulge, his manhood begging for release from behind the confines of his jeans.

You did as you were told.

You reached up to his buckle, your core clenching at the sight of him. Your heart beat harder than ever as your trembling hands slid the leather strap through the buckle. Something about this was exciting.

You tried to avoid his bulge as you leaned in to pull the strap from the loops, your face mere centimeters away, as you finally slid it off.

He took the belt from your hands and walked behind you. After a few moments, you suddenly see the belt strap float past your face, resting across your collar bone. He'd wrapped it around your neck, securing it loosely in one of the notches he'd just created. The cold leather making your body shiver, the metal buckle sending a chill down your spine as it touched your skin.

He walked back around to face you. "Is this making you angry?"

"No."

"Do you want me to stop?"

You hesitated a moment, giving it sincere thought. "No."

He crossed his arms in front of him, "... what's your favorite color?"

Your brow furrowed a bit, "Turquoise."

"If you want me to stop. I'll stop immediately. If at any moment this becomes unbearable for you... say, 'Turquoise'. Do you understand?"

'Unbearable'?

Goosebumps pressed forward all over your body. "Yes."

Your heart was beating even faster now. You had never been here before. It was...

Slightly scary... but...

Somehow...

Wildly arousing...

What the hell is happening?

It was as if you were meeting a brand new version of yourself for the first time in your life. A version that you were surprised to find you enjoyed.

You slowly looked up at his face... as your gaze met his, your core clenched from deep inside you as if jump-starting your heart. Your breathing became heavier.

"Once we begin... Do not take your eyes off of mine. Do you understand?"

"Yes."

"Yes sir."

"Yes sir."

As your gaze remained glued to his, he unzipped his jeans, pulling them down. They pooled around his ankles as he stepped out of them. He was wearing deep red boxer briefs with a black band. They looked amazing on him. "Pull it out."

You had to grip the band of his boxers in each hand in order to pull them down. Your body tingled as your fingers made contact with his bare skin.

They grazed his smooth abs in front of each hip, as they curved down into the band, sliding outward around his waist, pulling them down over his perfectly round ass, then curving back around across his hipbone toward the smooth, jet black strands that trickled down his v-line.

He was rock hard, the fabric pulling taut against him. The band struggled over his bulge as you pulled them down. It sprang free; his large, throbbing cock, right in front of you. It was so... fucking beautiful.

The sight of it nearly made me cum...

"Take it in your hands and look at me."

Attempting to maintain your composure, you gripped the shaft, in both fucking hands. The moment you touched it, a shiver went through your entire body. It's temperature hot against your skin as clear fluid seeped from the tip.

You felt him flinch immediately also. You took a deep breath as you looked up at him. He trembled against your hand, his eyes closed, breathing hitched and heavy.

Tension spread like lightning throughout your body. You felt the slick, pooling between your legs, saliva filling your mouth as the fire inside you burned fiercely.

He slowly opened his eyes, holding your gaze. He ran his fingers through your hair, gripping it into a messy ponytail in the back of your head, held in place by his right hand.

He gripped the loose strap of the belt in his left, wrapping it in a firm hold. As you locked eyes with him, he spoke clearly and deeply, "Open your mouth".

... fuck! I almost came again...

Your entire body felt as if it were closing in on itself.

You did as you were told.

"Now... make me come." He pulled you forward by your "collar", your tongue making first impact on the thick, smooth tip. It was warm. Precum glazed your tongue, mixing with your saliva. The heady, slightly salty flavor blended with his familiar aroma, flooding your senses.

Tastes So Good - Sabrina Claudio

Played as your brow furrowed and dizziness took over. It was as if you'd been holding your breath, starving, for months. You exhaled on contact, your eyes rolling into the back of your head. The taste of him...

The tender part of your lips wrapped firmly around him, gliding smoothly across his veiny shaft. Your body grew increasingly weaker as you fell under hypnosis. Tiny moans escaped your vocal chords as you trembled uncontrollably.

Megumi missed nothing. "Keep your eyes up here."

His voice... you slowly looked up into his eyes as your head bobbed, your tongue tracing the lines in his throbbing member as he pulled you further onto him. His fucking eyes... you had yet to see such fire.

I'm... so... so wet...

The desire to shove his cock between your legs grew more intense by the second. Your knees shook underneath you, pressing deeper into the pillow.

As Megumi observed your face, your quivering body, your glazed over blown out eyes, your pink cheeks, he groaned deeply, his mouth gaped open as his breathing hitched. His eyebrows pressed together as he watched you take him deeper down your throat.

He gripped your hair tighter. "That's it, sweetness. Very good..."

A chill went up and down your spine as he spoke. You wrapped your lips around him tighter, sucking a little harder, hoping to pull more praise from his mouth and more come from his cock.

Megumi's eyes fluttered shut as he threw his head back, thrusting his hips forward as he slowly fucked his dick into your mouth, only covering a fraction of his length.

You responded, just as a good girl should, using your hands to compensate for the parts of this beautifully engorged thing that your mouth struggled to envelop. Using your saliva to coat him, you hummed against his length savoring his heat and his flavor.

The sound of his moans were utterly intoxicating, urging your boldness forward. You gazed longingly into his eyes as you sucked him off, your hips moving, telltale signs of just how good all of this was making you feel.

Your brow furrowed in a silent plea for his approval as his dick pumped in and out of your pretty little mouth.

Megumi smirked, locs of your hair tickling his wrist as he yanked at your collar, widening your throat with each thrust as he continued fucking his cock into your face. "Yeah... Good girl." he grunted.

Noticing your constant trembling and the flutter of your eyes, he tilted his head, glancing between your thighs. His eyes widened, finding that you were dripping down your legs.

He gasped at the sight, a sharp tinge of adrenaline pulsing through his thick pretty cock as you held it in your mouth and your hands.

Your eyes closed as more of Megumi's precum spilled onto your tongue. You raised your chin up toward him, your pupils wide and your mouth wider, showing him just how good you can be for him.

Edging toward release at the sight of you, his hips bucked forward as he trembled, throwing his head back again, his hand tightening even more around your makeshift collar, the other around your hair.

He hissed "Aaah yes... I'm gonna come. Your mouth feels fucking incredible." He moaned as his thrusts stifled in pace. His mouth remained open, granting him more oxygen as he peaked. "Fuck! Don't stop."

As he pressed in deeper, pulling the leather and pushing his swollen head toward the back of your tiny throat, you hummed against him, with a slight gag and more saliva slipping past your fingers, tears pricking at your eyes.

You moved your hands faster, squelching and tightening your grip as they slid up and down his shaft, your wet tongue dancing around the tip, your lips plumped from the friction.

"I'm coming... fuck! I'm coming..." he moaned, trembling.

You tightened your mouth around him as you felt the warm, thick liquid shoot out from his tip to the back of your throat. The sound of his voice, the sensation of his strong hands shaking as it gripped your head, the pull of the collar, his moans as he came, all unbearably intoxicating.

Sure to lock onto his gaze, you raise your head as you pull him from your mouth, your lips sliding across the shaft all the way to the tip. You stayed there, your tongue orbiting and gliding over his slit, gently sucking the sensitive head, pulling every drop from inside.

Megumi practically doubled over in pleasure as he watched you suck at his oversensitive dick, a few more times for good measure, then letting go with a wet, satisfying smack.

He frowned deeply, still trembling and gawking at you in awe. He lifted his hand to your chin, pressing his thumb past your wet lips as he slipped it into your mouth, rubbing your tongue, finding no remnants of his seed. He stood there for a moment smirking, catching his breath, his dick refusing to lower its head. "Shit..." He moaned... "That's my good girl."

His praise satiated you. Gratified you. Megumi was fucking delectable. Inside and out. The pleasure that came with satisfying him was nothing short of incredible.

You wanted more. Needed more.

But... You were dying for him to... just … touch you. Aching for him to put his hands on your body. You desired him. Craved him.

In this short time, your connection, your compatibility, your chemistry, was all so perfectly aligned, regardless of anything else.

Megumi clearly wants you. Just you. And you wanted him back.

"Please..." you whispered.

Megumi froze at the sound of your voice.

"Please... touch me..." you pleaded.

Genuinely perplexed, he asked, "Am I not touching you now?"

"Please, Megumi." You answered as you looked up at him, trembling.

"I need … to feel your hands. ... just touch me. Anywhere... Everywhere... I want you, Megumi." as your tears welled, you allowed them to finally fall from your eyes.

Megumi held your hand, kneeling, wrapping his arm around your waist as he helped you up, your shaky legs threatening to give out from underneath you.

He cupped your cheek as he stabilized you with his strong arm, and pressed his lips against yours in a passionate kiss that reinforced the longing apparent in every bit of his touch. His tongue danced excitedly across yours, his lips, caressing and sucking your softly.

"How's this?" He purred as he slid the back of his hand down your cheek, curving his fingers around to the nape of your neck.

"Perfect," you whispered, as you relaxed in his arms.

"Good." He muttered, "because we're not finished yet." pressing your cheek with his as he began kissing you on your neck. He then turned, and in one quick movement, pulled a handle on the couch, converting it into a bed.

"What the..?" you couldn't help but laugh. "Are you kidding me?"

"Hey, I told you I have to sleep here sometimes. May as well be comfortable, right?" He shrugged, grinning.

"True … but uh … how many others have been here?" you asked, half joking, half thinking this might be where brings his fans?

Megumi turned his head toward you quickly, then chuckled as he held his head down. He looked back up at you with a grin. "Just you."

You cut your eyes at him in disbelief. "Just me, huh?"

He observed your expression, as he attempted to subdue a laugh, knowing how crazy it must've sounded to you. He paused for a second, then took a breath, "Do you have any idea, how expensive some of the things in this place are?" He squinted.

"Well..." you had some idea, but...

"I'm not asking out of arrogance … Maki and Yuta? They each have two guitars here. My kit, Toge's computers, one of his keyboards, and a Yamaha, Choso's mic's, not to mention the recording equipment, speakers, and …" He shook his head. "If I wanna bring somebody around for just a night, it damn sure won't be here."

Your eyebrows jumped as you smirked, pressing your lips into a hard line. "Makes sense..."

Megumi stepped toward you. His hand reaching up for your cheek as he leaned in to you, taking a breath wrapping his arm back around your waist as he pulled you close. His fingers grazed your chest as he gripped the strap of the belt, still hanging from your neck. "Are you okay with this?" And you knew he didn't mean just that.

You looked up at him as he leered at you though hooded blues. A sly, mischievous grin curling up into the corner of his mouth.

A chill went up your spine as you whispered, "Yes sir."

He leaned in to your ear, blessing you with those soft kisses you love, tickling your lobe. "Good..."

.

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"...'cause I'm your Daddy now."

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<< Set 2 / Set 4 >>

Set 4 Preview: "... “We’d better go… before I lose control and devour you right here”.

Your heart skipped a beat, electricity surging through your veins as he spoke. What this man does to your body is sometimes inexplicable. But he was right. It’s time to go, or you’ll become extremely irresponsible in this moment.

You let out a heavy sigh, lifting your head up as he held you, looking into his eyes with a sultry gaze, suddenly feeling a surge of confidence. “Then let’s go, baby.” You whispered. Then leaned over to the couch, grabbing your bag and jacket. ..."

Thanks for reading! ✨🥰✨

Notes: As always, I welcome any and all critiques, suggestions, and comments regarding my work, since I truly feel all of those may make me a much better writer! I sincerely appreciate you taking the time to read my little stories, and if you'd like to be tagged in releases, don't hesitate to comment below! 😊💖🎶

©cocomanga 2024 | Please do not plagiarize, copy, or distribute my work.

Fanart Art: Courtesy of @Pinterest Ombre Caution/DNI & Animated lines: Courtesy of @cafekitsune

[zappedbyzabka]

<3

[danifart]

what the fuuuuccckkkk

[writing-good-vibes]

For Valentine's Day, number 1 under angsty prompts. The Replacement. A little bit of jealous ex!Corey maybe...

ahh thank you for your req !!

WARNINGS for (past) corey x gn!reader, jealousy, mildly stalkerish behaviour, dark post accident!corey, mentions of joan being The Worst and mild implications of violence.

💔 very cute divider by @/firefly-graphics 💔

taglist: @slutforstabbings @ethanhoewke @voxmortuus (just let me know if you want to be added or removed !!)

Corey didn't like being jealous. Being jealous made his stomach ache, a horrible sickly feeling deep down in his gut that wouldn't go away, made worse by his tossing and turning at night while he tried to sleep. Being jealous made his fingers hurt, and he'd clench them into fists, hard enough for his blunt nails to leave red crescents in his palms, to try and ease the pressure in his sore knuckles. Being jealous made his eyes water and his chest tight and it made him want to scream, sat in his bed alone at night, watching the radio tower blink tauntingly through his window.

But Corey couldn't help it, Corey was jealous.

Maybe it was his own fault -- it was definitely his own fault -- that you didn't want him anymore, that you got out the first chance you had, that you chose to dodge the bullet that is Corey 'Kid Killer' Cunningham.

And he can't really blame you because he knows that you were getting bored with his reluctance to go anywhere, and with all his nervous habits he still hadn't been able to shake.

He knows it's because the looks got too much for you. Because the mutterings behind your back were starting to take their tole. Because the soda thrown at him from a car window as you walked down the street was only a taste of what was to come.

He really only had himself to blame, and yet he couldn't make himself let go of you so easily. Especially not now he'd seen his replacement.

It's difficult not to compare himself. Corey's been monitoring his placement in every league possible since middle school; popularity, academics, looks. He'd skated along in the middle of the pack popularity-wise, which suited him just fine, and he was never quite top of the class but he was close enough to keep his GPA up, and well... he wasn't winning any prizes compared to some of the guys at school, but he'd lived with it.

But next to his Replacement? Oh, Corey never stood a chance.

And Corey doesn't want to do this. Of course he doesn't. He sees you from across the street, holding his hand. He sees walk you around the dollar store while he pushes the cart. He sees you take him back to your place. And he follows you back to his sometimes too.

Momma's upset with him when he's late for dinner.

It's funny how much he still misses you, even when he sees you all the time. You smile and your smile is like sunshine. You look and your eyes are sharp and clever and deep enough to drown in. Your voice, god he could listen to you forever and ever and never get bored.

He closes his eyes and thinks about it, reconfigures all these sightings onto himself. You smile at him, you look at him, you talk to him, not his replacement

He's cold, and his stomach aches, and his fingers hurt, and his chest is tight when you open your door. He doesn't remember looking through the kitchen draw, or leaving home, or when his cheeks got so wet.

"Corey? Is everything okay?"

Momma always told him no one else would ever love him, and that's Corey down to the bone: always wanting something he can't have.

on the topic of jealousy, you should also read [warnings apply]:

clean again by blake (@/slutforstabbings). after corey survives the events of ends he travels south and, against his better judgement, falls in love with the reader. corey's jealous streak is strong in this story, but it comes up most directly in chapter 7.

rock bottom by toxic (@/toxicanonymity). corey can't decide if he wants to do the reader or michael, so he does both. and even though he gets the best of both worlds, he's still somehow jealous of both of his partners.

[daily-suyao]

[t-u-i-t-c]

hyuuga // episode 37

[titsthedamnseason]

we need to unpack that ben cobalt plays hockey aka the most violent of all the sports

[rozecrest]

hey girl did you know the mask of humanity fall from capital. it has to take it off to kill everyone -- everything you love; all the hope and tenderness in the world. it has to take it off, just for one second. to do the deed.

[seekingthestars]

little floof has the best possible time at con, proceeds to spend the next month crying about it