#then gets angry at me for saying i can’t afford to pay that much

[selfconsumerofmywoes]

my only two holiday conditions: not in april, and not over 750 quid

every holiday my mate sends me: april, £850+

[mironovs]

i hate how entitled I end up feeling bc this is my sentiment but . Really really resenting that my parents aren’t going to help me with school or rent or anything while they super can

[alagaisia]

This is something I learned at one of the pre-op visits for my breast reduction! My surgeon was basically I think an independent surgeon (as I guess I would imagine is common for “cosmetic”/plastic surgeons?) and she was telling us a little bit about what to do for talking to insurance about the surgery and stuff, and she mentioned that for us going through insurance it would be at a particular hospital, but she also often did surgeries where people didn’t use there insurance, and she did those at some other place, and the price she charged up front was much lower, because that was the actual cost of the surgery (and equipment and everyone’s salaries etc.) and she had to raise the ticket price significantly when people would go through insurance, because the insurance company would negotiate that price down, and then keep some of the money. (Obviously for us and many others it still worked out to be cheaper for us out of pocket to go through insurance, but the amount she made was roughly the same even though it would look like she charged thousands more for my breast reduction than for someone not using insurance)

So, when you get those bills from your insurance after a doctors visit, and there’s that little table that tells you, this is the cost of the visit, this is the discount we got you, this is how much we paid, this is how much you still have to pay?

That line about “we got you this discount” is misleading. They actually caused the provider to raise the initial cost of your care by that amount, or more, in anticipation of the insurance company refusing to pay the full amount so that they could tell you they got you a discount.

"Why does a 15-minute visit with a doctor cost 150 bucks in America???" you're gonna want to read Money-Driven Medicine, by Maggie Mahar, and probably also The Social Transformation of American Medicine, to answer that question. It is not because your doctor is a greedy bastard; your doctor does not see most of that money. It is because the system is broken to a level that is truly impressive in its dedication to making a shit ton of money for insurance company executives and shareholders.

[theemporium]

Hmmm maybe sugar daddy lando paying off your school tuition, but you don’t know about it because you’re told it was a scholarship or anonymous donation or whatever. And then eventually you find out it was him?💰🧡

thank you for requesting!🫶🏽

.

“Hey, baby—”

“Do not ‘hey, baby’ me right now.”

Lando raised his brows in surprise at the tone of your voice, his arms instantly dropping to his sides when he realised that a hug was unlikely to happen. Instead, he just gave you a slightly nervous smile, his brain racking to try and figure out what he could have done to piss you off when you were fine this morning after leaving his place to head off to university. 

You stared at him, looking expectant. “So? Are you gonna say anything?”

Lando blinked. “Uh, you’re back early. I thought your lectures finished at five—”

“Stop trying to be cute and answer the question,” you snapped, standing in front of the couch where he was sitting. Your hands were perched on your hips, your nose scrunched up and your lips in an angry pout—and honestly, he just thought you looked adorable. 

“Baby, I don’t mean to be funny, but I really don’t know what I did,” Lando admitted with a soft sigh. “Was it the shoes? I swore I sent them to your place and not your university but I might’ve mixed it up with the flowers—”

“Lando,” you interrupted, your face crumbling into one of betrayal and it instantly made his spine straighten. “You paid off my tuition.”

“Oh,” was the only word to leave his lips before he relaxed, a casual smile on his lips. “Yeah, I did. Why? What about it?”

You pressed your lips together. “You can’t do that.”

He frowned. “Why not?” 

“I—” you waved your hand as if that was meant to help you get your words out. “That’s too much, Lando. It’s too expensive.”

“I can afford it,” Lando said with a shrug.

“I know that but…that doesn’t mean you should pay it,” you said exasperatedly, something in the pit of your stomach twisting in discomfort.

“Baby, what is this really about?” Lando sighed as he extended his hand to you. He saw the small moment of hesitance in your face before you gave in, sighing as you took his hand and allowed him to pull you into his lap. “Talk to me.”

“I can’t pay you back,” you murmured shyly.

His lips twitched in amusement. “You don’t have to.”

“But—” you started before sighing. Your hands rested on his stomach, your fingers fiddling with the buttons of his shirt. “It’s a lot of money.” 

“And you’re my girl,” Lando answered with ease as he gently took your face in his hand. “You’re my girl. My smart girl. And you’re already doing so much, working hard and studying harder. The least I can do is pay for my girl to be a genius, hm?”

Your cheeks burned with his words. “Lando—”

“Nuh uh, I wanna hear you say it,” Lando said, grinning a little as he squished your cheeks together. “C’mon.”

“I’m your smart girl,” you murmured, slightly embarrassed but Lando only smiled wider.

“Yes, you are,” he nodded before leaning to peck your lips. “And you deserve to be taken care of. It’s the least I can do.”

.

[hl-obsessed]

WARNING! it's a long one - 54 fics listed! 🙈💕✨

•°•°•°•°•°•

✨💎 Lend Me Your Broken Parts by @dizzy-pixie17

(M, 2,4k)It's been five years, but when Lottie doesn't know what else to do to console a hysterical Louis, she calls Harry.

And despite everything, Harry comes.

Look How Well I Play the Bare Truth by Missbeautifullywritten17

(NR, 8,7k) When recently single (to the general public, of course) Harry Styles gets nominated to an Oscar for playing a gay policeman in the 1950s he thinks it is the most wonderful and, at the same time, painful thing it could have happened to him. How is he supposed to say how much Tom and Patrick's story means to him without revealing he is being closeted himself? How is he supposed to go on with his life after receiving the most important award there is for simply playing the bare truth? Well, maybe the rainbow dress he is wearing would be enough of an statement...

Or, the one where Holivia stunt ends, dwd flops and My Policeman gets lots of oscar nominations. Now, it is March 2023, Louis can't be there with him even though his bearding relationship with Eleanor and bbg are already done and he is in the process of coming out himself (apparently, coming out was one thing, but them being a couple... that was perjudicial for their careers and shall remain hidden). So what he does instead is a rbb photocall with the one and only Niall Horan while they watch Harry on the TV screen.

Meanwhile, Harry Styles remembers his past and finds himself on stage with an oscar in hand and, perhaps, his only chance to be free.

Cigarettes and Fuckin’ on the Windowsill by carmelstyle

(NR, 2,4k) Harry comes back from Italy after filming “My Policeman” and stunting. Louis isn’t happy about that last bit.

Or: Sex in front of a window.

Rest in Peace by @stfustucky

(M, 2k) Sometimes, when he looks back on things, there’s a small, angry part of Louis that wishes he’d never met Harry. If he’d just missed that audition, if he’d just stayed in bed, he never would have fallen in love with curly hair and bright green eyes and dimples he’s never gone a day without kissing since. Most times, when he looks back on things, Louis blames himself. The very solar system revolved around Harry and Louis had the closest orbit, flying close enough to feel that warmth in every atom of his body. He should have been paying closer attention, should have opened his eyes and stared into the sun and seen what was happening.

Harry has inoperable brain cancer at the age of 26. Louis watches the love of his life slip away.

guide you home by @nauticalleeds

(G, 0,8k) It’s been a while since Harry’s been able to appreciate the night sky, been a while since his life wasn’t full of hectic schedules and interviews and jet lag. He looks at the sky a little longer, watches the stars blink back at him and thinks about another bright presence he’s been missing.

Taking out his phone from his pocket, he thumbs at his screen to open a new message.

Full moon tonight, he types, and presses send. He keeps the app open, expecting the message to come instantly.

It does.

the peace ring is back in louis' ass? by @greeneyesfriedrice

(E, 1,2k) peace ring adventures with harry and louis! probably not what you expect!

Singing My Name Like Your National Anthem by @letthemusicmoveyou28

(T, 1k) “You’re not supposed to be here.”

Louis just scoffs at that, dismissing Harry quickly yet lovingly in a way that only he has ever seemed to manage. “Good luck getting me to be anywhere else love.”

Harry sighs. “Louis you can’t afford to get sick too. Your album release is next week, you’re booked solid.”

Louis just shrugs. “And if I get sick then we’ll rebook all of it. Or damn it all to Hell for all I care. As much as I want my fans to hear the album, there is nothing more important to me than you.”

✨ Second Time's A Charm by @dizzy-pixie17

(M, 4,7k) “Harry?” Oli Wright said nervously into the phone. “Um… How… how’re you doing?”

Harry’s heart was already picking up speed because there was only one reason Oli ever called him after midnight.

“I’m alright,” Harry answered. “What’s going on? Is it Louis?”

“Uh… yeah,” Oli admitted. “There’s been an accident.”

OR

The one where Harry finds out Louis broke his arm. For the second time in one year.

A Boyfriend for Christmas

(G, 5,5k) Louis' co-worker, Gemma, asks Louis to be her date for Christmas dinner. She needs a fake boyfriend to keep her family from harassing her about her singlehood. Louis adores her, so he doesn't mind helping out--until he meets Gemma's handsome younger brother.

Feeling It Now by @ireallysawanangel

(E, 7k) When Louis hooked up with a hot guy in the bathroom at a music festival, the last thing he was expecting was for that guy to be one of the headlining acts at the festival.

✨ Seal The Deal by @itsnotreal

(NR, 2k) Harry’s been getting Louis Tomlinson’s mail for months, even though he told the mailman that he lived in apartment two and Louis lived in apartment eight.

✨ It's Thursday. Let's Get (un)Dressed by @bananaheathen

(E, 9k) When Louis is peer-pressured into downloading TikTok over the holidays, he fully expects to hate it. And he does hate it. All of it. Well... except for aspiring OOTD influencer, @ harrystyles.

Your Silhouette Over Me by orphan_account

“Alright don’t forget the mission, get Louis laid,” Louis shouted over the music.

“Don’t know who Louis is, but I support it.”

Louis turned towards the contributing voice and saw the bartender leaning in front of him, his elbows resting against the lip of the bar. He had brown hair that fell in loose curls just above his collar bones which were perfectly on show due to the fact that his shirt was unbuttoned halfway down his abdomen. The shirt’s sleeves were cuffed up along his inked bicep and the pattern was something that Louis would expect a dad on vacation to wear, not a young bartender.

“He’s Louis,” Zayn said, jutting his thumb in Louis’ direction.

The bartender nodded approvingly, “then I definitely support it.”

~~~~~~

Or the one where Louis went out one night after work, wanting to get laid, and then ended up meeting a bartender named Harry Styles.

you drive me wild (you know you do) by @missandrogyny

(E, 6,6k) Their management informs them that they have an interview right before the ARIAs, and it isn't until he's in a suit, seated on a couch between Liam and Zayn, that he gets the idea.

The interviewer, Angus, smiles at them, right before the cameras roll on, and a metaphorical light bulb goes off inside Louis' head. He's perfect. Well, not as perfect as Harry, but enough. He's attractive, attractive enough to drive Harry crazy, and he doesn't even think of the consequences of his actions, just decides right then. It's all Harry's fault anyway. Louis should be allowed to have a little fun.

(or: Louis flirts with the Australian interviewers and Harry gets possessive.)

Love In Conversation by @hellolovers13

(T, 4,9k) King Arthur Baking Hotline.

Your bread fell flat. Your cookies crumbled. Who do you turn to? The King Arthur Baker’s Hotline.

or

Louis has a severe baking breakdown.

Thankfully, he gets help from baking-hotline operator Harry.

✨💎 i've secretly always wanted to be yours (and for you to be mine) by @bottomhaztoplou

(M, 1,6k) Harry has just presented. Louis needs to know that he's okay.

Only you by @germericangirl

(E, 4k) Harry comes home from filming a particularly intimate scene for My Policeman. Louis is jealous, Harry doesn’t understand why. They talk it out, more or less…

✨ Whoever, However by @brooklyn-babylon / @twopoppies

(E, 8,9k) Louis could feel his heart rate pick up as he positioned the camera and Harry slowly stood up. They both knew what came next –– it had been clearly outlined in the advert Harry answered. The studio Louis worked for was filming a new series of camboy videos. Louis’ job was to make it look like amateur porn –– sweaty, sensual, dirty –– but well lit and edited. He was an artist, thank you very much.

—-

Or: Louis has a much better day at work than he’d expected.

home at last by @greeneyesfriedrice

(E, 1,9k) Harry turns, a wide smile on his face. Louis stands in the doorway to their shared bedroom, his right arm held close to his body and in a makeshift sling.

He makes sure not to fully ram into his husband, but it’s been almost one month, so sue him if he’s excited.

Everything by @tommokat

(E, 4,3k) He’s got a job he loves, fans he adores, friends to call on and family to claim. He’s traveled the world, broken records, set new ones. He’s 13 years into a relationship with the love of his life, the man he can’t wait to start a family with. He’s a three-time Grammy award winner getting railed by his husband in the back of a SUV in the middle of LA traffic. He’s got everything. What more could he want?

or

Post Grammy’s SUV Celebration Sex

Devil in my brain, whispering my name @lunarheslwt

(E, 9k) Or, Louis, a demon, shows Harry, an angel, just how good it can feel to give in to temptation and sin.

Only You, Always by @larryficwriter

(NR, 5,5k) “Hey Haz,” Louis says, tensing because he can tell that something is wrong. Out of the corner of his eye, Louis sees Liam hurriedly busying himself with the Xbox.

Harry walks over to Louis, eerily calm. Louis’ gulp is so loud he’s almost sure that Niall and Zayn could have heard it. He leans down, his breath tickling at Louis’ ear. Honestly, Louis can’t help the shiver that runs down his spine

“Bedroom.” Harry practically growls into Louis’ ear and then he walks away, just as calm.

For a second Louis is frozen. Just the tone of Harry’s voice has Louis twitching in his trousers. Louis knows what’s about to happen, he can just tell. And it is a far cry from the fight that he had been expecting. Louis gulps again, looking over to Liam. The tips of Liam’s ears are flaming and Louis’ about seventy-three percent sure that Liam had heard what Harry had whispered. Liam is specifically avoiding Louis’ gaze. And then it hits him that he should be up; he should be moving.

or how Harry reacted to the "Lilo Kiss" incident

Won't You Please Come Around by @allwaswell16

(M, 5,8k) Harry has lived in London for a month, and so far the only friend he's made is his sister's cat, Mr. Whiskers. When the lock on the window breaks, Mr. Whiskers begins exploring his new neighbourhood a bit too thoroughly and brings back mementos of his escapes.

Or a Valentine's Day story where Harry has a really fit neighbour, and his cat is a thief.

I Hope You Choke (on those words) by @imogenleewriter

(E, 3k) Harry Styles had been head of security for concert venues for over eight years.

Never in his career had he seen a musician as reckless when it came to personal safety as Louis Tomlinson.

After making his job a living nightmare, Harry decided he needs to talk some sense into Louis.

If only there were some way to shut him up.

You Could Give That Aspirin the Headache of Its Life by @letthemusicmoveyou28

(M, 3,6k) Louis had once heard that the chances of being struck by lightning are 1 in 700,000. He wonders now, how those odds compare to randomly being seated next to your ex boyfriend on a 10 hour flight.

Honestly, if the universe is going to insist on ruining his life, he really would have preferred the lightning thing.

(Or the one where Louis is a football player who gets stuck on a flight with his ex-boyfriend Harry. The universe might be conspiring against him, or is it?)

You Can See It with the Lights Out by @larryatendoftheday

(M, 8,6k) In a universe where you know as soon as you meet your soulmate, Harry's been shaking hands his whole career, waiting for the one.

Things Unsaid by @londonfoginacup

(G, 4,4k) Or, where you have a tattoo of the first thought your soulmate has when they see you.

✨ If the world was ending, you'd come over, right? by @enchantedlandcoffee

(T, 6,3k) "Is Harry with you?" Louis blurted out, his free hand tapping anxiously against his knee.

"Louis?"

"Yeah. Is Harry with you?"

On any other occasion, Louis knew Niall would have yelled at him for calling in the middle of the night. But Niall must've sensed the urgency in his tone, his voice immediately taking on a lighter touch.

"Yeah. Yeah, he's been staying in the spare room. Why? Do you want me to get him for you?"

"No!" Louis panicked. "Just- check on him please? Make sure he's breathing and everything?"

✨ My Arm Might Be Broken, But I Won't Be Broken Down by @boosbabycakes28

(T, 2,4k) Louis broke his arm for the second time and he is bored out of his mind. He has nothing better to do than mess with his husband.

✨ Together We're the Greatest by @hellolovers13

(E, 4,6k) “How the fuck does this always happen to you?” Louis huffed, pulling Harry's limp body into the half fallen apart car he'd borrowed for this. Well, he didn't intend to give it back, really, but insurance covered theft, did it not? And this thing was basically held together with duct tape and good faith, so really, the former owners should thank him for taking it off their hands.

-

It's not the first time Louis has to stitch Harry back together, but Louis will make sure it is the last

With the Bomb Lighting by @letthemusicmoveyou28

(E, 4k) “Hey mate, sorry for the delay. Pop divas I swear…”

Harry’s eyes jolt open with record speed and he notes in horror that the man that had been filling his fantasies mere seconds ago is now filling his laptop screen.

“Holy shit, is that your dick?”

(Or the one where Harry is doing Zoom interviews to promote his new album, but his time management skills are lacking. Louis is the writer interviewing Harry for Rolling Stone when he accidentally gets an eye full. They figure it out).

the sweetness of your words knows no bounds in making my heart leap by @bottomhaztoplou

(M, 1,4k) At the end of his heat, Harry writes a letter.

At the beginning of his rut, Louis writes one back.

Meant To Be (Arse First) by BayouSexual

(T, 4,8k) Zayn groans in response, and Louis can hear the slow rustle of his bed sheets in the background. “Is it another ‘you woke up in the back parking lot of a Tesco’s with no pants and I need to come get you before the cops do’ panic or more of a 'I can stay in my bed and lend you an ear’ kind of panic, because I drank a lot more than you did last night, Lou.”

“Uhh,” Louis replies eloquently, “more like an 'I have two giant, blood red handprints on my naked arse, and no, they aren't from a good shag’ kind of panic.”

------

Or the one where your soulmate mark appears on your body where they first touch you and stays there until they touch you for the first time.

Aka the one where Louis's soulmate must like bums.

Makes Me Feel Alive by @itsnotreal

(E, 8,3k) Louis hated when people came in to get tattooed and couldn’t sit still— bunch of fucking squares is what they were. If only that had been the issue for his newest client.

Completely Oblivious by @itsnotreal

(G, 1k) “Are we dating?” Harry looked very confused.

Louis huffed, “That’s what I’m asking you!”

Or an interaction with a stranger helps these two finally figure their shit out.

✨💎 Your secret's safe with me by @lightwoodsmagic

(M, 7,4k) He knew almost everything about Haz, considered him his best friend. He knew his favourite movies and books, how he liked his coffee, knew how many pets he had and what he was most afraid of. Louis knew how to calm him down when he was panicking, and that he’d lost his virginity to his ex-boyfriend when he was 17. He knew that Haz had curly hair, green eyes, that he was tall and considered himself slightly awkward. He knew his Instagram account that only had aesthetic pictures or ridiculous jokes, but in the all the time that Louis had known him, he’d never learnt, or been allowed to know, Haz’s full name, what he sounded like, or what he looked like.

Louis didn't care.

Or, when Louis' favourite singer comes back and announces he's performing again, him and the rest of his group chat decide to go. When Haz, the man Louis' fallen in love with without meeting him, says that he can't, Louis tries his best to convince him with a drunken phone call, hearing his voice for the first time. It's not until he's at Royal Variety that he swears he can hear it again.

✨ Let The Ocean Worry About Being Blue by @greenblueish

(E, 5,6k) In a society where young adults go through the so-called Colour Test which determines their affiliation to a Colour - Blue, Yellow, Red or Green - and thus where they'll live, work and socialise for the rest of their lives, Harry is finally about to take the Test. Born and raised in Yellow, he met his boyfriend when he was still a teenager - against the government's recommendation. Louis, however, changed from Yellow to Blue two years ago. The problem: Harry needs to receive a Blue Test result as well, because a relationship between two people who live in different Colours is forbidden.

The Touch of Your Hand by @larry-hiatus

(E, 8,2k) Louis has decided to bite the bullet and get himself a dick piercing. He knows it’s going to hurt, but what he doesn’t know is how to calm down when he finds himself on the brink of a panic attack in front of the incredibly attractive piercer, Harry. Luckily, Harry is really sweet and offers to help ease his nerves.

You Don’t Have to Be Lonely Tonight by @neondiamond

(G, 2k) Louis is stuck working the Christmas day shift at the coffee shop. Harry is the sad stranger who comes in to spend the day there.

✨ In Jest by @londonfoginacup

(T, 4,8k) Louis, who smiles at Harry as he reclines in his chair. Louis, whose soulmark is visible thanks to his low-cut top.

Louis, Harry’s soulmate, who seems to either be blissfully ignorant of that fact or maliciously ignoring it.

Harry would really like to know which.

✨ you give me feelings that i adore by @alwaysxlarrie

(T, 7,6k) Harry doesn’t mean to fall in love with Louis’ scent when they first meet after the Alpha joins Harry's study group, but after Harry leaves a sweater behind by accident and it comes back smelling like Louis, he can’t really help it. Nor can he really help continuing to leave his things behind in hopes that Louis will take them home and drench them in his wonderful, mouth-watering scent. He just has to hope Louis will play along.

Or, 5 times Louis scents Harry's things and the 1 time Harry returns the gesture.

We All Scream for Ice Cream by @wishingforloushair

(M, 3,1k) Harry snatched the flyer back off the noticeboard, waving it at Liam. “BJ in your PJs?” he repeated.

“What? I’m not giving you a blowjob, Harry,” Liam said, looking slightly affronted.

“See?” Harry rounded on Niall. “No one thinks of Ben and Jerry’s when they read BJ.”

“Well, they should,” Niall said, snatching the flyer back. “Not everyone is a disgusting heathen like you two.”

“It says BJ in your PJs?” Liam asked, sounding aghast. “On all the flyers?”

“You told me it was catchy!”

When Resident Advisor Liam left his boyfriend Niall, and Niall's roommate Harry in charge of advertising the end of semester ice cream celebration for their hall residents, he should've expected it to end in disaster. Niall created an entirely inappropriate flyer, offering a very different experience than what they were planning to offer. When distributing the flyers, Harry meets Louis, an older student studying Drama, who is far more interested in BJs that doesn't involve Ben and Jerry's.

AKA crack/fluff with a bit of smut, based off of that one viral poster 'BJs in your PJs'

✨💎 Odds Are That We Will Probably Be... by @lululawrence

(NR, 0,6k) From the moment Louis learned no one would survive past the evening, the only thing he knew was that he had to get to Harry.

✨ I Knew From the First Time by @lululawrence

(NR, 6,1k) Or the one where Harry definitely doesn't take a sneaky pic of Louis on the Tube. Absolutely not. (Except maybe he does.)

All You Want's Under Your Nose by @wishingforloushair

(E, 3,5k) Louis decides to treat himself to a new sex toy, but is perplexed when he sees a man in the shop placing each vibrator against the tip of his nose and sneezing. Curiosity gets the better of him, and it turns out the man, Harry, is a sex-god who knows far too much about sex toys and promises Louis that if a vibrator makes him sneeze it will definitely make him come. Of course there's only one way to find out for sure...

On Love's Doorstep by @hellolovers13

(T, 1,6k) Harry Styles: a day in the life

☑ Stuck in a dress

☑ Abandoned by his best friend

☑ Date with hot neighbour

All in all, not the worst day ever

If Life Is a Photograph by @allwaswell16

(T, 2k) Harry gets plucked out of the crowd to take Louis’ crew pic on stage in Guadalajara.

It Was Electric Touch by @allwaswell16

(E, 2,2k) Harry, assistant to The Snuts' manager, has been indulging in fantasies about the headliner and founder of the Away From Home Festival, Louis Tomlinson. He gets the chance to indulge in the real thing at the after party.

Just Two Stars Passing By by QuickedWeen

(E, 5,1k) Harry blew up on TikTok and became a fashion commentator during the pandemic. Now, all of a sudden, big channels are asking him to cover their red carpets and premieres. Somehow he ends up covering arrival fashion for the 2024 Euros, and somehow Louis Tomlinson already knows his name.

A Late Summer Day by @gettingaphdinmomo

(NR, 0,5k) Today

I realized

you are home.

I almost told you

I love you.

Figure This Out by @haztobegood

(E, 2,4k) Louis is everything Harry could have imagined when he’d typed “silver fox enthusiast” into his Grindr profile. Too bad he's probably scared Louis off by giving him too many expensive gifts.

✨ Booked and Busy by @insightfulinsomniac

(E, 9,2k) Booking the Away from Home Festival is the biggest opportunity of Harry’s up-and-coming career to date. It’s just an added bonus that the festival is hosted and headlined by his longtime celebrity crush, world-renowned rockstar Louis Tomlinson.

Despite his excitement, doesn’t expect Louis to watch his set. Or to visit his dressing room ahead of his show to wish him good luck.

Or to flirt with him.

But seeing as this is the most monumental night of Harry’s life to date, he might as well make the most of it.

***

A fluffy, smutty PWP where Harry performs at AFH 2024 and gets a lot more than he bargained for.

.🌸🌸🌸.

✨ you gave me a ring, lad! by @theeliampayne

(G, 0,2k, Liam & Louis) In which Liam visits Louis at a concert and "give me a ring, lad!" is taken more literally than Louis intended.

like air to me by @uhoh-but-yeah-alright

(M, 5,3k, Louis/Zayn) Five times Louis’ smoke break brings back memories of Zayn and one time it brings him back to Zayn’s doorstep.

.🌸🌸🌸.

🌿 part 1 (+50k) 🌿 part 2 (30-50k) 🌿 part 3 (10-30k) 🌿

[darkficsyouneveraskedfor]

End Game 11

No tag lists. Do not send asks or DMs about updates. Review my pinned post for guidelines, masterlist, etc.

Warnings: this fic will include dark content such as noncon/dubcon, age gap, stalking, and possible untagged elements. My warnings are not exhaustive, enter at your own risk.

This is a dark!fic and explicit. 18+ only. Your media consumption is your own responsibility. Warnings have been given. DO NOT PROCEED if these matters upset you.

Summary: Your gaming buddy asks to meet up but it doesn’t go exactly as planned.

Characters: Andy Barber

Note: the best way to spend you Tuesdays is pissed at an old man.

As per usual, I humbly request your thoughts! Reblogs are always appreciated and welcomed, not only do I see them easier but it lets other people see my work. I will do my best to answer all I can. I’m trying to get better at keeping up so thanks everyone for staying with me.

Your feedback will help in this and future works (and WiPs, I haven’t forgotten those!) Please do not just put ‘more’. I will block you.

I love you all immensely. Take care. 💖

Time passes too quickly. The clock counts down to your fate. Again. It feels like you’ve done this already. 

You laugh even though it hurts. You try not to think of what comes next. You just stay in the moment and help Kara clean up the mess the cops made of her place. She’s in high spirits considering. A night in jail can put things in perspective. So can the prospect of life imprisonment. 

You order sushi. You figure if Andy’s paying, you’ll splurge. She doesn’t ask how you can afford it and you won’t explain. Fuck it. It’s your last hurrah. A final little spark before your flame is tamped out. 

When it’s time to say goodbye, you’re choked with tears. You fight not to show it as you hug Kara and tell her you’ll message when you’re settled in your new place. You want to cling to her forever. You sense a reluctance in her as well. 

“You okay?” She looks you over as you pick up your purse. 

“Yeah. Yeah. A lot of change. Tired.” You yawn. You really are exhausted. “I was so worried, Kar. Really. I'm so happy you’re out.” 

“Oh, tell me about it! But hey, I’m kinda a bad ass now. I got street cred.” She flexes her arms and giggles. 

You laugh too. You’re going to miss that. You will hold onto every lame joke and cherish it on those days when you can’t make yourself smile. You know with Andy, those will be far and few between. 

You leave and linger outside the door. This could be the last time your here. You won’t think that it could be the last time you see Kara. Too many ifs, and just as many scary certainties. 

You reply to Andy’s text. He’s waiting around the corner where he won’t be seen. It’s bad enough you’re lying to Kara, but her knowing the reality is worse. At least in this, he is your ally. You meet him there.  

He smiles and kisses you as you buckle your seat belt. Your disgusted by him. You say nothing. If you speak, you might just tell the truth. You lean back and close your eyes. He shifts into gear and the engine whirs softly in the night. 

“You okay?” He asks. 

He asks you that as if it should be. You turn your face to the window. 

“Tired,” your murmur. 

He steers into a lot and you look up at the bright white facade of the hotel lit by spotlights. It’s the kind of hotel you could never afford. You never stayed in one before but you expect one of those roadside motels is more your pay grade. 

It feels like another boast. Look what I’m giving you. Look what you wouldn’t have without me. Yeah, yeah. You owe him. 

He gets out and you follow. That’s how you’ll get through. Let him lead the way. He’s so much older, so much wiser, so why not? Just go along with it all. He knows what he’s doing. Exactly what he’s doing. He entrapped you. He pretended to be his own son and tricked you. 

Your angry thoughts boil over as you enter the hotel room ahead of him. He steps in close enough to brush against you. You pull away sharply and focus on untying your shoes. You drop them and stare at your hand. 

“I need the bathroom.” 

“Oh, it’s just down--” 

He points and you’re already on the move. You rush into the bathroom and lock the door. You want to scream. No, stay calm. You can’t let him get to you like that. 

You stop and lean on the counter. You look at yourself in the mirror and exhale slowly. Sleep. Don’t worry about anything else. You need rest. You can see it in your eyes. You can feel it through every part of you. You push off and go to the door. You emerge and stop short. 

One bed. Your bag is beside it already. You can tell he’s been there all day. You sit on the edge with your back to him. 

“TV has streaming. Tub has jets. Your pick.” He suggests. There’s a fragility in his throat that irks you. He’s acting like he’s afraid of you. Like you have any power in this situation. 

“I’m going to lay down.” You lower yourself to your side and curl up. 

“Shouldn’t you... you want something to change into?” 

You don’t answer. You’re empty. You don’t have anything left. You just want to lay there and never move. 

“Sweetie?” 

“Tired.” You say. 

“Right, well...” The TV flicks on and the menu clicks as he shuffles through. “I’ll put on something for white noise. I’m gonna hop in the shower. Figure I’ll do it now so we can get on the road early.” 

You grumble and shrug. You close your eyes. His presence looms before his footsteps pad away.  

He doesn’t close the door. It’s probably intentional. Does he think you’re going to go in and join him? Has he really deluded himself into thinking you want any of this? That you want him? 

The shower buzzes lightly through the wall, beneath the audio of the TV. It’s some syndicated law show your grandmother had on all the time. You roll your eyes and shift to get under the covers. You nestle in and lets your fatigue cocoon you. Even so, you’re too agitated to fall asleep. 

He emerges as you hide. You catch a glimpse past the blanket. He’s in only a towel. His thick arm is rounded with muscle and his broad chest is covered in hair. Boys your age don’t look like that. 

You shut your eyes again as you burn in shame. You’re so stupid. You remember hearing his voice and thinking it couldn’t be some scrawny kid. You knew it! You knew it and you were too shy to call it out. 

Andy gets closer to the bed. You can smell the scented soap and feel the moisture in the air. The zip and rustle of his bag stir beneath the television. The bed dips behind you and he groans. He lays down and hooks his arm around you. 

“Hey, how ya doin’?” 

“Get off,” you hiss. 

“Huh? Sweetie.” 

“I said I’m tired.” You push him away and roll off the bed. You trip as the blanket catches your ankle. You spin to face him. “I’m tired and I want to sleep.” 

“I know, honey. I just--” He sits up, leaning on his arm. He’s in only a pair of briefs. Ew. “I was checking on you.” 

“I’m trying to sleep. I don’t need you all over me.” 

You come forward and grab the pillow. He seizes your wrist and keeps you from retreating. You tug and growl between your teeth. “I’ll sleep on the couch.” 

“Why are we going backwards? I didn’t do anything.” 

“You need--” you twist your arm in his grip. “You need to give me space, okay? Give me a chance to think. I can’t-- Andy. You knew the truth all along, I didn’t.” 

“Backwards,” he drones in an annoyed monotone. 

You drop your shoulders and huff. “Fine.” You let go of the pillow and put your knee on the bed. “Fine. I’ll come back. I’ll sleep in the bed.” 

He lets you go and you put your back to him again. He sighs and his weight shifts behind you. The tension roils over you. Let him simmer. You’re on fire in anger and shame and despair. He can handle a bit of neglect. He deserves it. 

🎮

You sleep. Not soundly. Each time you rouse, you remember where you are. Each jarring reminder adds to your struggle. You scrape together a few hours, if that. 

You crawl out of the bed as Andy’s even breaths turn stolid. You can’t bear it any longer. 

You sit in the chair and stare. You don’t bother with your phone or the TV. There’s nothing that can distract you from your life. 

When he wakes, he says good morning. You feel his gaze but you react. He asks a question but you don’t respond. You just sit and watch the wall. His shadow moves around the room, around you.  

He nudges you. You wince and surrender. You look up at him dully. 

“Hey, wanna hop in the shower before we go?” 

You shake your head. 

“Okay, well, you should probably change into some fresh clothes,” he says. He checks his watch and your eyes find the digital clock by the bed.  

You stand and grab your bag and your purse. You carry both to the door and step into your shoes, bending down the backs under your heels.  

“Sweetheart--” 

“Let’s go.” 

“You can’t go out like that--” 

“Who cares? I'll just be in a car.” You grumble. “I just want... it to be over.” 

He silently measures your words. He grabs his keys and slings his bag on his shoulder. He nears and you grab the door handle. “You’re right,” he pulls the door back as he reaches above you. “Can’t wait to be home.” 

Home. That word sinks like a boulder in water. You go out into the hallway and he points you toward the elevators. Across the lobby and outside across the lot, under the dim early morning hue. 

He puts your bag in the car for you. You let him. Then he opens the passenger door and you climb in. He gets in on the driver’s side and starts the car. He asks if he should turn the air on. You shake your head. You can’t feel much of anything. 

He doesn’t ask as he stops at a drive thru. He gets you both a coffee. You thank him only as you sense his eyes on you. You just have to do enough to keep him off your back. 

“Alright, let’s go,” he takes the paper bag of biscuits and bacon and hands it over. “In case you get hungry, sweetheart.” 

Another thank you. Your voice is gravelly and grim. You don’t sound like yourself. You don’t feel like yourself. The motion of the cars disorients you. You feel trapped in your body. It’s as much a prison as the house waiting for you at the end of this journey. 

The road sprawls ahead of you. Your vision glazes over. Your head lolls against the seat as NPR drones in your ears. 

Hours and hours. You eat only as he asks for some of the food. You know he’ll accuse you of being ungrateful if you waste the sausage and pastry. You chew and swallow without tasting. You wash it down with the bitter coffee and wipe your fingers on your shorts. 

“There’s napkins,” he rebukes. 

“Sorry.” 

“It’s fine. Just saying...” he grips the wheel tight. “Why don’t you close your eyes? I know you didn’t get much sleep again.” 

“I’m fine,” you insist. He knows you didn't sleep. Is he so clueless as to not guess the reason?

“Mm,” he grumbles. 

You turn your head and gaze unseeing out the window. His sighs put you on edge. You twiddle your fingers. 

“You’re in yesterday’s clothes and you’re barely talking,” he insists. 

You cringe and put your head straight. You drop your chin and shrug. “I’m sorry, Andy.” 

“I’m trying to be patient,” he lowers the volume on the stereo as he speaks. “But I’m worried. What happened to the girl I know? The one I spent all night mining with? The one who would giggle at the creepers?” 

You nearly shriek. You flip your hands down and squeeze your legs. You bite your lip until you think it might split. 

“Things are...different,” you mutter. 

“I know but we can do it together. We can change each other. For the better. I just need you to meet me halfway.” 

“I’m trying,” you whisper. 

“I’m not saying you aren’t but trust me. I know that communication is the most important part of a relationship. We have to talk to each other.” He explains. “Look, I’ll be honest. I’m scared too. I’m nervous. It’s been a long time since I had someone and sweetheart, I just—I’d hate to let you down. I really would.” 

Relationship? Scared? It’s too much. It’s a bunch of lies he’s convinced himself of but you can’t believe them. You can’t make yourself, even if you know you should. 

He’s well off, he’s established, he’s older, he’s confident. He's offering you everything a woman wants; money, a home, a partner, yet you can’t accept any of it.

You didn’t choose this. You never even had a chance in your life to consider it. To imagine who you would want those things with. He’s snuffed that part of your future out along with your trust. You can at least thank him for ridding you of the last of your naivete. 

“Okay, Andy. Trying. Honest. I’m trying but... I don’t know what to say. How to say it.” You run your hands down your cheeks and exhale. “I’m still thinking.” 

That’s true. You have nothing to say. You’re lost. He might know where he’s taking you but you have no idea. It’s not about the house or the city or any of that. It’s about everything. What does he want you to be? Can he figure that out when you never even figured out that question for yourself? 

[lucysarah-c]

Not sure if this is like, allowed to be answered and feel free not to of course. But reaction to Levi finding out someone tried to assault his s/o, or just hurting them in general like a more targeted instance rather than a battle, even before they are partners and could just be friends, you think more of a quick death or Levi would get sorta sadistic?

Have a great one 🐞 and thanks for always feeding us amazing works

Hi dear! Ah, no one has called me "bug" in years!!! Haha, thank you—that was so sweet of you!

Don’t thank me! Thank you for reading and stopping by my blog.

I really like this ask… Maybe because I’ve had a similar scenario in mind for my fic, but I just can't seem to find the right approach to it. I’ll try my best here! I’m 100% a "violence doesn’t solve anything" kind of person, and even when someone is truly horrible, I can't stand seeing them get hurt, especially physically. I’m that "sensitive" type, sorry haha. I feel Levi would say something similar to what my mother always tells me: "Don’t try to be more Catholic than the Pope" (a saying we have in Argentina, meaning "Don’t be too nice because people will take advantage of you. Be a little bit tough when necessary").

So, I’ll be completely honest with you: No, this ask doesn’t make me uncomfortable. But I do believe that Levi would resort to violence in certain situations. Levi killed a couple of guys just because they messed with Isabel’s hair. If his special someone (be it a friend, girlfriend, etc.) got hurt or was assaulted, Levi wouldn’t wait to see if she filed a report or went to the police.

He would simply stare at her and demand, "Who was it? Do you know them? Can you identify them?"

If it happened recently and she still shows signs of the struggle, she might try to downplay it. "It’s over now… It doesn’t hurt that much—"

"I didn’t ask if it hurt or if it was over. I asked who did it," he’d reply firmly.

She might avoid giving straight answers, trying to brush it off, perhaps out of shock, embarrassment, or fear—fear for Levi and the trouble he might get into. "I already filed a report and—"

"Have you ever seen any of those bastards behind bars because of a report?" Levi would counter. "Who was it? Give me a name."

"I pressed charges—"

"I’m sorry to break it to you, but men aren’t scared of charges. They know they can get away with it. They know they have friends who will bail them out, who will erase the charges, who will stand up for them," Levi explained. "Do you know what the only thing those assholes fear is? Being treated and beaten down the way they treat others. Beasts like them only understand their own language."

If the person responsible is someone Levi can’t directly deal with, like a higher-ranking officer or an MP, he’d still find a way to make them pay. He’d beat them up so thoroughly and probably in public to humiliate them. Levi knows the military can't afford to lose him, so while he might not be able to kill them, he’d ensure they couldn't sit straight for a long time. The most sadistic I can imagine him being is if he beats them so badly that they end up begging for mercy. And then Levi, lifting them by their hair, would say, "Don’t beg me—beg her."

Now, if the perpetrator is a regular citizen… they’re dead without a second chance. I can’t see Levi being sadistic in the sense of torturing someone, but he wouldn’t give them a quick death either.

So, that’s it. I hope I managed to write this well enough!

Thank you so much!

Have a lovely day.

Link to my masterlist and my other works if you feel like checking them out. Tags!: @nube55 @justkon @notgoodforlife @nmlkys @humanitys-strongest-bamf @quillinhand @thoreeo @darkstarlight82 @angelofthorr @aomi04 @levisbrat25 @l3visthighs @hum4n-wr3ckag3 @hannieslovebot @starrylevi @rithty @mariaace @ackrmntea @emilyyyy-08 @levisfavoriteteashop @katestrophes @levistealeaf @an-ever-angry-bi @youre-ackermine @fxnnyackerman @secretmoneybearvoid @trashblackrainbow @flxrartsstuff @katharinasdiaryy @levisecretgfblog @searriously @blackdxggr @ackermanswifee @galactict3a @abiatackerman @braunsbabe @moonchild-12345 Wanna join my tag list? Here!

[rafedaddy01]

Summary: reader works at a strip club to pay her bills because she’s a pouge and Rafe and her are old friends but haven’t seen each other in a while. He runs into her while she’s working and requests a private dance to “help her out”

Warnings: no actual smut, lots of sexual tensions, mentions of child abandonment, mentions of death, pervy innuendos

Notes: this was a request. I’m slowly starting to write each one, please be patient with me and don’t forget to comment and reblog!

“Busy night”

“Yeah” you breathlessly laugh as you tie your bra in the back.

“We got some younger guys coming in tonight, families loaded. Make sure you treat them right” you sleazy boss snacks your ass and shoots you a wink before grinning in walking out.

“Pig” you mutter to yourself as you apply some finishing touches to your makeup and fluff up your hair.

***

The lights go out as you enter on stage. The best to the music picks up and a spotlight shines down on you.

You stride over to the pole and start getting to work.

The tiny triangles covering your nipples and the thin thong grip your body in all the right places.

You see the pervy faces of some of the men and take a deep breath, reminding yourself of why your doing this. It’s not easy to make money on the cut and once your brother passed away, your only family left, you had no savings and couldn’t afford college.

You finish up your first set of the night and hear the crowd woo as you twist on your heels and head to the changing rooms.

As you change into your second outfit of the night your boss walks in “someone requested a private dance. Don’t disappoint me.”

You sigh deeply. The last time you got requested for a private dance the jerk tried to rape you, even though it’s totally illegal your boss didn’t do a thing about it. Instead he took your tips from that night to himself, said a whore like you doesn’t deserve to get paid.

You powder your nose and fluff your hair before fixing your white underwear set and heading to one of the private rooms.

In the private rooms there is no cameras. Just a black couch with some plants and a black table. There’s not even a door, just a curtain to conceal the images.

As you walk in there’s a tall man with a muscular physique facing towards the wall, his hands in his pockets.

“Someone request a private dance” you say as you pull the curtain shut.

You turn to the man and your eyes grown in shock.

“I knew it was you”

“Rafe?” You take a step back.

“Wh-what are you doing here?”

“Me? What are you doing here y/n. In a place like this?” His voice is angry as he takes a step closer, his arm reaching out to grip your upper arm but you pull back.

He scrunches his eyebrows at your reaction.

He takes a deep breath before speaking, “look… I know we haven’t seen each other in years-“

“You abandoned me Rafe, you left me when I had nobody. My brother died and my parents were nowhere to be found and you left me!” Your on the verge of tears but you don’t let them slip, you can’t. He can’t know how much he really hurt you.

“Y/n I’m sorry, please. You have to understand, it was a dark time for me too.” His eyes plead as he looks at you with such compassion and mercy for you to forgive him.

“Please…” he asks again as he steps forward and clasps both of your hands in his.

“It started after my brother died, I had no money and a friend of mine mentioned that her job was hiring. She said they were looking for dancers, and you know how much I used to love to dance. Once I found out what it really was I didn’t want to do it, but she showed me all the money she made from just one night and- and I needed the money. I still do”

Rafe looks at you with a sort of pitty, “don’t do that” you say as you laugh and shake your head, pushing his hands away.

“Do what?” He asks.

“That look, don’t feel bad for me”

“Y/n…”

“No Rafe! Please… just leave.”

You turn around to pull the curtain open when your tugged back by your arm and slammed into his chest.

“Not so fast, I paid for a private dance. I think I deserve one, don’t you?” He cocks an eyebrow at you.

“Rafe…”

“Shhh, I’m paying a lot of money. Dance” he positions himself on the couch and watches as you roll your eyes and walk up to him.

His eyes never leave yours as you squat down between his spread legs, placing your hands on both of his thighs and pushing your ass in the air as you slowly stand up and lean in closer to his face “as you wish mister Cameron”

He leans in and you completely push off him and you turn around, wiggling your ass in his face and pearing over your shoulder to see his eyes watching your every move.

You smile to yourself as you sit on his lap, straddling him backwards and grinding your ass onto his groin. His hands come up to your waist and you slap them away “no touching”

He groans as you stand up and straddle him facing him this time. “Your killing me” he speaks out, his voice gruff with arousal as you rock back and forward on his erection. “Touching costs extra” you say slyly as your lean to whisper in his ear, biting the love as you pull away.

Just before your able to face him again he grips the back of your neck and pulls your ear to his lips causing you to gasp. “I’ll pay the damn fee”

Taglist

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[lani-heart]

|| series masterlist || next // previously ||

parings -> park jay x reader genre -> non-idol au, school au, hybrid au warnings -> mental health, abandonment issues, etc. word count -> 1.5k

y/n’s perspective

“No,” I said and he sighed. “Please y/n-nie! He needs a home!” Haechan pouted and I scoffed. “Then you take care of him! I don’t have the time to take care of a hybrid…” I muttered and he chuckled.

“Which is exactly why you need one… he's very low maintenance, actually he can take care of himself. I think you need someone to take care of you” he said and I sighed… 

“I don’t need anyone to take care of me,” I said and he sighed… “Have you eaten today?” he asked and I sighed. “I didn’t have the time… I was studying–” “You’re always studying… Jay can help take care of you” he suggested and I shook my head.

“I couldn’t do that to him… he needs a good home,” I said and he smiled. “He’s had so many owners and yet none cared to keep him. All of them had all the money he could ever want…” he said and I sighed… 

“I really need to keep this scholarship, Haechan–” “How about a deal?” he asked and I knew I shouldn’t trust him but anything to make him shut up

“If under your care, you fail your next bio midterm, I'll find someone else… but if you can handle it please show him a good home” he begged and I sighed. “Fine…” I said not knowing what else to do about the whiny junior in front of me. 

“Okay! Let me text Mark that you agreed!” He said and I scoffed. Of course, Mark was also involved… Eventually, he came with a hybrid next to him.

“Ok, Jay here is a bird hybrid so he can only wear collars… he goes to the classes available on campus and Riki the devil hybrid’s lovely angelic owner got a new collar for him because I asked so nicely!” he said and I sighed.. 

“Hey you never know, by adopting a hybrid maybe the principal's daughter will be impressed by you,” Mark said and my eyes widened. “You think?” I asked now hopeful and they chuckled. 

“I don’t get why you admire her so much…” Haechan said and I smiled. “Cause she’s so sweet, and she actually offered the scholarship to me. Without her I wouldn’t be in this school” I said and he sighed.

“Maybe I should ask her to pay my tuition,” Haechan said and Mark laughed. “Good luck, she won’t even pay for Jisung’s meal card, '' he said and I looked at the hybrid who only awkwardly stood there looking at the ground. 

“Hello! I’m y/n… I don’t think I'll be your permanent owner but I’ll try my best in the time we’re together” I said and he nodded. He was really pretty…

“We’ll let you guys get acquainted,” Haechan said as he left us two. “What do you like to do Jay?” I asked and he shrugged. He seemed very silent… this was gonna be very awkward then. “I hope I don’t make you uncomfortable… I do live in a single dorm but it is quite small” I said and he still didn’t say a word. 

Did he hate me already?

I know Haechan said his previous owners were all of the rich kids on campus but… I couldn’t afford the lifestyle they can not anymore, I can only afford this school because of the scholarship I was given another chance with. 

“Jay… I hope we can get along”

jay’s perspective

I can’t believe I got replaced by a mutt and was now left with her… I was still given my classes but this was all ridiculous! So when I saw him walk in front of me with new designer clothes and a new collar more expensive than anything my new temporary owner owns, it pissed me off. 

What did he have that I didn’t?! The puppy looks?!  

“She’s your owner now huh?”  I said when he turned to look at me disappointed to see me… We weren’t exactly friends…

“I hope you enjoy it, she’s a bitch who doesn’t know how to do anything herself. You constantly complain and are gonna make you do so many stupid things just to humiliate you!” I said letting the anger get to me… she really was the worst. All of them were.

“She wouldn’t do that” he muttered and I scoffed, I don’t know I was so angry that I grabbed his shirt enough to get aggressive with him... “You’ve suddenly changed from rags to riches and think it doesn’t come for a price!” I said… funny it's almost like we switched spots. 

“You know nothing about– I knew you were hurt but–” “Why are you suddenly mentioning her?” I asked, now confused… e/n was his owner, wasn’t he? “She adopted me… not like it's any of your business,” he said and I sighed… so she didn’t adopt him? Or did she just beat her to it?

“Is the free trial bird causing you trouble? I would too if I suddenly lost everything and suddenly became a freeloading hybrid!” Sunghoon laughed and I scoffed.

“You shouldn’t be laughing? From what I heard your owner doesn’t even know–""Shut up before I make sure this pretty little bird can’t sing again” he threatened… 

“Sore subject? I wouldn’t want to remember you either, Sunghoon '' I said and he glared not saying anything else as I sat down in a different seat than I normally would. 

First Riki now Jake? They both got the happy endings they want… don’t they? So… what about me?

Where was she? She was late… or did she forget me already? 

“I’m sorry I'm late!” I heard and saw Sunghoon’s owner “I forgot where this place was and–” “Whatever,” Sunghoon said cutting her off… bitter hybrid with a bad reputation

Jake looked at him confused…. He doesn’t know anyone or anything since he’s new and clean from the richest side of things.

“His owner is an amnesiac… everyone thinks he tried to kill her and she just forgot,” I said and Sunoo seemed to disagree… “He’d never do that, they’ve been with each other since kids'' he said and I scoffed 

“What do you know about Sunoo?” I asked and he didn’t answer… it's been years since his owners would play together and in association with him and Sunghoon. They weren’t close anymore… They were strangers, especially because of how isolated Sunoo’s owner was. 

 “Jake!” I heard and saw Jake’s new owner… “You’re late” he teased and she shook her head apologetically  “It took me a while to actually get here from across campus,” she said and the dog hybrid just seemed happy to see her with lovesick honeymoon eyes  “Hmm? Looks like you had company though?” she asked and he said… “Not really”

They left me alone with Sunoo…

“I heard you have a new owner?” he asked me and I scoffed. “She’s more like an incompetent babysitter” I said and he sighed. “Well looks like she’s here to pick you up?” he asked and I looked at where he seemed to be looking… She seemed a little disheartened? Why because I said the truth?

“I’m sorry I'm late… I had a meeting with a counselor but I shouldn’t be late again” 

y/n’s perspective

I know he hates me… an incompetent babysitter seemed about right. 

“I’m really sorry, Haechan thought this was a good idea” I apologized while he stayed silent and didn’t show a reaction to my single bed dorm… “Uhm, I know it's also weird that we’ll be sharing beds” I said and he looked confused. 

“It is the only bed here” I said and he sighed. “I’ll sleep on the floor, just don’t step on me when you wake up” he muttered. “But… we both fit–” “I’ll sleep on the floor” he was adamant. I nod… “Oh! Here, Haechan said that my financial aid covers a hybrid meal card so take care of it please” I asked and he took it and nodded. He didn’t even want to talk to me… I felt guilty as it was that I was his temporary owner but was I this incompetent? 

I guess this is exactly why I didn’t want a hybrid. I couldn’t take care of one… I can only take care of Jay for the time being and study like I was before…

Nothing more and nothing less…

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please don't be a silent reader !! reblog, comment, and like <3

[frozenjokes]

Rage Room (I’m Loving A Losing Battle, But I Can’t Quite Seem To Let Go)

in which aromantic scar finally tells his friends what’s been happening between him and Grian, and how he processes the space between them

“It’s just- not fair!” Scar smashed the bottle against the tile floor, the glass pelting the ankles of his reinforced pants.

Bdubs clapped behind him, though stopped when Scar turned around, visibly not in the mood. Admittedly he knew he was shooting low when he went on, but Scar didn’t care, “And I’m kind of pissed off about Etho! If the roles were switched, I would be there, and he said he’d be here last time he missed.”

“Oi,” Cleo cut in, about as unamused as Scar figured they’d be. “No friendly fire.”

“Is it really friendly fire if he’s not here.” Scar huffed, but Cleo knew better than to take his words at face value, and shut him up with a firm glare.

“And you better start talking before I make you pay for all of this.” Her words were rugged, but Scar knew she didn’t mean it, and he could take as much time as he needed. But really, if he was taking shots at Bdubs, he probably should cut to the chase. This was why they were here. This was why they had all made this pact in the first place.

“Grian is.” Scar started, stilted, “Sorry, Bdubs. I shouldn’t have said that. Grian won’t talk to me anymore. He doesn’t- want to talk to me.”

“What?” Bdubs said, eyes flying open, and yeah, no one here was really caught up with his whole.. situation. Anything that felt close to Mumbo he tended to avoid, and basically everything about Grian in the past weeks was Mumbo adjacent.. and also a little sensitive. Not something he was eager to talk about. Scar was more than a little pent up, and based on the expressions of concern across Cleo and Bdubs’ faces, it must have been pretty obvious. “Weren’t you guys hanging out nearly everyday for- I don’t know, it’s been a month at least, right? Did something happen? Hasn’t Grian been driving you around everywhere, too? You’ve sure been asking me a lot less.”

“Yeah. We were.” Scar spoke stiffly, picking up another empty bottle and spinning it in his hands. He chucked it at the wall, aiming at the newly set up targets Cleo had implemented a couple weeks ago. A good choice. Fit with the theme of the axe throwing/rage room combo. The bottle shattered near the bullseye, unsurprising, given their whole friend group had pretty tight aim. Still satisfying. “Until he went and fell in love with me.”

The memories burned like open wounds, like red, angry flesh, like sunburns on your eyelids, like the stinging smell of bleach. Cleo said something, some sort of assent, but Scar didn’t hear it, smashing two more bottles for release, though he didn’t feel any less like his ribs had been torn from his chest, hanging limply on hooks, dripping on his face from his place on the cold ground, bleeding out, dying, but never quickly enough.

“I don’t like labels, alright, you all know this, but Grian says aromantic, and that works for now, because I don’t love him like he loves me and that’s fine. That’s fine! That. Is. Fine.” Scar took a bat, needing something bigger, needing more release, and the old TV would work just fine, “And you know how I feel about dating. I like it. I like to get to know strangers, I like to feel things out, and I like to be close! But you know who I don’t like to date?” The question wasn’t meant to be answered. Scar swung his bat, splitting the TV screen with a satisfying crack. “Friends. Good friends. Friends that mean a lot, friends that I can’t afford to lose when everything goes to shit.”

Scar hit the TV a couple more times, physically battling away distress, “I was so afraid when he brought it up- dating. I was so afraid. I couldn’t just date Grian, because it would end and I would lose him and maybe he’d say we could still be friends and I would say yes! Yes, please, please can we still be friends, and he would say that’s okay, and then two weeks later he’d slam me with a message about ‘needing space’ and ‘not wanting to talk for a while’ and suddenly, suddenly my heart’s being ripped out of my chest and stomped on, but it would be fine, right? It would be fine, because after he’s taken his time, we could be friends again, and things could return to normal. No!” The TV was hardly satisfying to hit anymore, reduced to shattered glass and warped plastic under Scar’s assault.

“It never just. Goes back to normal. You try, and you try and you try, but they just can’t do it, they just can’t love you anymore, and suddenly your best friend is slipping away and there’s fucking nothing you can do about it. Because you dated them. Because you took things ‘to the next level,’ because you made something volatile without even knowing, and the next thing you know, it’s blown up in your face, and you’ve been completely blindsided again.” Scar’s arms shook, and gently, from behind, Cleo laid a hand on his shoulder, sliding down his arm to take the bat he was gripping so tightly. Scar let go when they touched his hands, but his teeth remained locked, grinding near painfully.

“Deep breaths, Scar. Breathe with me. Let me count for you,” and Cleo did, counting to five and back again, forcing Scar to take a step back. Scar wasn’t someone who particularly valued meditation or breathing; it was often too difficult to focus, especially alone, and he was easily frustrated knowing how he should be feeling, but Cleo had a way of grounding him, and when Bdubs was doing the same exercises at his side, Scar didn’t feel so stupid. And it did help. Fives minutes to breathe really did wonders sometimes; it was a shame Scar couldn’t quite manage to utilize the tool as effectively when he was alone. Not that he ever remembered to try.

And now it was quiet, and Scar was so vulnerable, and there was no more anger to hide behind, because it was all just sadness, stiff and aching so impossibly deep.

“I thought if we didn’t.. date.. I thought things could just be normal. That nothing would change. But every awful thing just got expedited- he doesn’t want to see me, he doesn’t want to talk to me- he needs space, he said he needed space, but I know what that means now.” Scar had to sit down, and Bdubs joined him, Cleo standing close by. “I feel so helpless. And it didn’t even matter. I just wish I knew so badly, so I could have said yes, so at least we might have had a chance before it all went to shit. I could keep my friend a little bit longer. I wish I understood how he felt. I wish I felt what he felt. Maybe it wouldn’t be so hard.” Scar let his head drop to his hands, voice muffled under his palms, “I just kinda hate myself sometimes.”

Cleo put a hand on his shoulder, a question of touch, and one that Scar accepted with closed eyes. “It would still be hard, Scar. I can promise you that. If this isn’t what you want to hear right now, then you can let me know, but I have to think Grian and your other exes of the past who you haven’t kept in contact with were and are just as torn up as you. Maybe they need to let go for themselves, but I can tell you from personal experience, that doesn’t make it hurt any less. It doesn’t make you miss them any less.”

“But when people leave me, it’s always because in some way, their lives would be better without me,” Scar felt like wailing, but in reality, his speech was far more soft, “And my life is always worse. It’s always worse. Like I’m just a plague on my friends, and I have no idea how to fix myself to keep this from happening.”

Bdubs squeezed his hand to get his attention, and Scar knew what was coming, he just couldn’t love himself right now.

“There’s nothing to fix, Scar. You’re one of the most delightful people I know, and I mean that. The way you navigate the world is inspiring.”

“Just doesn’t feel like it right now.”

“It doesn’t have to,” Cleo said, something faraway about the words, “You just should know, that’s all. How we feel.”

“I just wish I was normal.”

“I don’t,” Bdubs snorted, something so passionately reactionary, Cleo laughed, and Bdubs himself looked a bit surprised by his own words, then a tad embarrassed, “I mean, come on. You’re a complete monster, and I love it. I love how comfortable you are about touch, I love how physical you are, and I love how normal you make it feel. Sometimes I want to fall asleep on my friends’ shoulder, or hold hands, or just be held, you know? And no one does it like you, Scar, no one. I think everyone ought to take a couple pages from your book.”

Scar wasn’t quite sure what to do with that, but it wasn’t the type of thing you argued about. You just had to accept it. In all honesty, having people to love him when he couldn’t manage it himself felt indescribably secure. Like a heated blanket wrapped tightly over his shoulders when he was so, so cold. But he couldn’t acknowledge it either, not when he couldn’t breathe the words. So he let it hang, hoping he’d remember to say something later. He knew he would. For now, Scar dodged around the words, stuck in his own raw truth.

“I don’t want to go through this again.”

“I know,” Cleo kept their hand on his shoulder, and Scar wanted to cry.

“And I- Okay, so I can’t really talk about this.. NDAs and such, but I was working on something with someone- something cool, all three of us, Grian included. And at the same time Grian.. cut contact.. I haven’t been able to reach this other uh- colleague, and I don’t know what happened! I don’t know anything, and I have no way of contacting this other guy, and Grian doesn’t know either, and I was so excited, but it just feels like everything is falling apart around me. And- and don’t be mean about the other guy, please, it’s not his fault.” Cleo looked quite skeptical about that, but a pleading look from Scar was enough to get her to leave well enough alone, “I just wish I knew why. Or if he was coming back. Might not have been able to communicate that anyway though, there’s a bit of a language barrier.”

“Can’t use google translate?” Bdubs asked, and Scar couldn’t stop the bitter laugh that escaped his throat.

“Hadn’t thought of that,” he mumbled, which was enough to get Bdubs to let it go. Cleo didn’t look happy, but she didn’t push either.

“That fucking sucks,” she said instead, and Scar laughed in earnest, along with Bdubs, the entire air feeling just a little bit lighter.

“It does,” Scar sighed, resting a cheek on his fist, “Guess I have to find something new to throw myself into. I just really wanted this. I really wanted this.”

There was a long silence, Scar having nothing else to say, and his friends in a similar boat. There wasn’t much to say. They knew. Scar knew they understood. But there was nothing anyone could do. Nothing that could make this any less horrible. But Bdubs did perk up after a minute, catching Scar and Cleo’s attention

“We could go skiing!” Bdubs suggested, to a chorus of groans from Scar and Cleo. Bdubs huffed, affronted as he crossed his arms, “You two need to live a little. Even if you suck, you’re both exhausted by the end of the day, which would do Scar some good in my opinion, and I know you’d be able to take the time off for an impromptu trip.”

“I don’t even think you like skiing,” Cleo rolled their eyes, a laugh under her voice, “You went on one trail ride in those mountains and it changed your life, that’s what. There are no wild horses out there, Bdubs, the guide lied to you.”

“She did not lie! There are horses, and they’re going to see me and know.”

“Know.. what, exactly?” Scar teased, and Bdubs puffed up, as if this was the most blasphemous question Scar could have asked.

“They will just know. And anyway, Etho believes there’s horses out there too, he does, and he wants to see them just as much.”

“Pretty sure Etho is also fucking with you,” Cleo said, smug, and Bdubs gasped.

“Never!” But something stopped him from ranting on; a short pause, a bit of uncertainty. A guilty glance in Scar’s direction. “I’m really sorry he’s not here. I told him- I don’t know. He said something came up last minute and wouldn’t explain. I’m not happy with him either- quite frankly, I’m embarrassed.”

“I shouldn’t have said anything,” Scar rubbed his neck, frowning, “It doesn’t really bother me much, Bdubs. I don’t want you to feel bad.”

“It’s fine if it bothers you! It bothers me! And you’re right, he’s not here, so I think a little friendly fire is well deserved,” Bdubs paused, eying one of the few bottles that were left, “May I?”

“Be my guest.”

Bdubs snatched at a bottle, flipping it in his hand, nearly dropping it trying to look cool, then whipping it at the target across the room, the entire thing smashing right on the bullseye.

“Oh, score!” Scar smiled, and Bdubs pumped his fist.

“Yes! You know, I already feel better. This is great, Cleo, have I told you this is great?”

Cleo looked pleased, exactly the cat who got the cream, “You have. And I know. So how about you boys throw back a couple beers to replace these bottles, and we do a little axe throwing.”

“Are you paying?” Scar asked, hopeful, innocent, but Cleo snorted, shaking her head.

“Uh, no. Don’t let that hold you back, though.”

“Oh, come on,” Bdubs whined, but not without his signature grin, “What’s the point of free rage room therapy hour if it’s not all free?”

“I’m not going to make you pay for the axe throwing either, and that is not included in our little deal, so the least you can do is drink.”

“You can’t make us pay to axe throw with you because we all know you’re going to whoop our asses,” Scar shot back in fake accusation, but Cleo shrugged, a crooked smile across her lips.

“You have fun.”

“I do,” Bdubs assented, earning a sharp jab from Scar’s elbow.

“We don’t! Unless you buy us each a beer, then we do.”

“No.”

“Please?”

“No.”

“Okay fine,” Scar sighed, fully intending on a large tip regardless, since despite her sharp tongue, Cleo would still refuse any sort of compensation for an outing like this, “But you also have to drink.”

Cleo scoffed, the smile never leaving their face. “Who do you think I am?”

***

It was fun. Of course it was fun. Scar lost pretty miserably in nearly every round, though that could be accurately attributed to the fact he was more than a little tipsy, and Bdubs, always spying an opportunity to get an edge, took full advantage. Though, to his credit, Bdubs was having a great day in general, overtaking Cleo in score multiple times, and even winning one or two games. A feat, even against an inebriated Cleo, which, in all honesty, was pretty much the only way Scar or Bdubs could ever surpass her. Etho.. It was safe to say Etho had little talent for the sport. Didn’t matter how much instruction he got, he was nothing short of miserable every time all four of them got together to play. Actually, out of the four of them, Etho was probably the only person who improved when he was drunk, which was always hilarious to see. You’ve never seen a fire lit under someone’s ass like you did when Etho managed to squeak ahead of Bdubs or Scar, the cackling of Cleo only furthering their panic.

Scar did wish Etho was here. He wished he wasn’t so flakey sometimes.

Regardless, when they were done, Bdubs was only two steps away from sober and plenty able to drive. Scar was relieved to have to ride, and even more so that he hadn’t brought his own car in the first place. It was a nice drive home, anything but quiet, and really, just what Scar needed. The less time he spent alone with his own thoughts, the better. Though, after such a nice evening, tonight was going to be a little easier.

Thanking Bdubs for the ride, Scar stepped out onto the cobblestones once they reached his apartment, taking a deep breath before going inside. It was okay. He was going to be okay.

But there was one little habit he had developed, a little something he couldn’t quite shake despite knowing it wasn’t doing him many favors. It had only been a week since Mumbo had disappeared, but Scar refused to miss it if the mermaid ever did return- he couldn’t, even if Grian wouldn’t be in the picture anymore. This still meant something. Scar wasn’t about to give it up so easily.

The trail cams were still open on his monitors when he sat at his desk. Of course they were. Scar never closed them.

So there he sat, chin in his hands, eyes glazed as he watched every angle of that little cove. The trees, waving gently in the breeze. The sand, shifting ever so slightly in the presence of bugs and crabs. But mostly he watched the water. Scar never stopped watching the water.

[leonstoenailunderhisbed]

Insurgency: Front Lines

Summary: A totalitarian regime reigns over a South American country in which the virus is being distributed to its citizens at the pretense of a “cure.” Leon was sent to retrieve a sample of the virus mutation when he stumbled upon a group of anti-government activists whose main goal is to overthrow their government. Will Leon help the cause or will he fall down with the government as well?

Warning: Mentions of mature themes. Read at your own discretion. Slow burn. Age gap (Leon is 38 and reader is 21+). Reader is female.

Word count; 4,848

A/N: can you guys tell i love writing?

[part one][part two][part three][part four][part five][part six][part seven][part eight][bonus]

“The most effective way to destroy people is to deny and obliterate their own understanding of their history.” - George Orwell, 1984

Leon woke up early the next following day, he had a special mission to accomplish and he’d rather do it sooner than later.

His footsteps were heavy as he walked towards the private plane. He was armed with his weapons and vest as the other soldiers walked ahead of him in similar outfits.

Once he was inside the place, he put in the seatbelt and stared out the window.

As the other soldiers settled in, a chief commander stepped in and began to address the group.

“Good morning soldiers. Today we are to fulfill our duty as not only Americans but as aiders. We are to help and be on our top game, this isn’t like any other battle. We are fighting against rebels and we must ensure the safety of the innocent. If any of you do not feel fit for the job, leave now.”

No one stood up, they all watched in silence as the commander continued, “I will be your commander. Call me Commander Pittman. That’s all.”

The commander left towards the front of the plane, leaving Leon and the other soldiers dwell on his words.

“The Leon S. Kennedy is joining us on our trip,” one of the soldiers taunted. Leon didn’t pay much attention, only giving him a brief look before looking back out the window as the plane took off.

“Yep, the one and only,” Leon replied begrudgingly.

“Did you practice your Spanish? Get it? Because you went to Spain to save the president’s daughter?” The soldier snickered and Leon, one again, didn’t pay much attention. He’s gotten used to all the comments- good or bad ones. Right now he had to focus. He was put on a very special and secret mission and he couldn’t afford to screw it up.

As the plane took off, the sky began to turn dark. Pruye was an island hours far from the U.S. It was located right in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.

Leon closed his eyes and decided to get some rest before hell started all over again for him.

-

You were now sitting around a campfire inside the underground system of La Sénte Mountain. The Insurgents had built a system inside the mountain that led them underground, where they lived.

As you sat in front of the fire, you couldn’t stop thinking about Franco, Esme, and your bother. All taken away from you by the government. You were angry, sad, infuriated. You felt a lot right now.

One of the men who had pointed their guns at you came over and sat next to you, offering you a bowl of warm soup, “For you. Yarina wants you fed and rested for tomorrow- says you’ll need it.”

You took the bowl of soup and took a small sip out of it. It tasted good, pork with vegetables.

“Thanks,” you mumbled as you kept eating.

“My name is Josue, sorry about earlier,” he nodded at you and then gazed at the fire.

“No, I get it. Can’t trust anyone in a war, right?”

He chuckled at your statement as he shook his head, “At least you get it.”

Silence overtook the two of you but you still kept eating. It’s been a while since you’ve last ate and you were grateful to have been given some food and shelter.

“Here’s the plan, novata,” he started quietly, “I’ll teach you how to use a gun and in exchange you do something for me.”

You nodded slowly, “Okay.. what do you want me to do?”

Josue pulled out a picture of a young girl that looked exactly like him. Brown hair and green eyes.

“This is my sister, Victoria. Right now she’s in San Bandero. She’s a medic, she worked with us for a couple years but then got captured by la presidenta,” he explained in a hushed tone. Josue looked around before leaning to whisper in your ear.

“If you bring her back alive, I promise I can get you out of Pruye.”

Your body froze at his words. He could find a way of out of this island?

“That sounds risky, Josue. You heard Yarina, there are soldiers are every port. There’s no way neither of us wouldn’t get spotted,” you looked back down at your half eaten soup before looking back at him. The flames of the fire illuminating his facial features.

“I’ll bring her back. But I get to hold on for a favor in the future.”

Josue stared at you, thinking about your deal. After some time he nodded, “Fine. I’ll agree to that.”

Josue looked around once again before giving you his handgun, “We’ll start small and work your way up to the big ones, okay?”

You nodded and took the handgun, placing the now empty bowl of soup on the floor. Josue motioned for you to stand up and follow him towards one of the rooms inside the underground system. Composed of metallic hallways and sliding doors, he led you to a door with the number 279 imprinted on it.

He slid the door open, “Ladies first.”

You walked into the room first as he followed behind you and closed the door.

“This is El Rango de Disparo,” Josue explained as he stepped forward. The shooting range was made of metal and so were the mummies. There were only three since the room was so small. The dim light barely illuminated enough of the room to even make out the targets on the dummies’ chest. But still, it was better than nothing.

“Now, I want you to aim your gun at any of these three unfortunate dummies. Don’t pull the trigger, it doesn’t have any bullets yet,” you stepped forward and face the middle dummy.

You pulled out the handgun from your back pocket and aimed it at the dummy’s chest. The circular target that was hand painted was colored in a bright red, the same one from the map you saw earlier. These people made their own resources.

“Okay, nice form. Your arm is tense, relax. Put your left leg behind, create a strong stance in case the enemy decides to throw you off balance.”

You nodded at his words and did as he said.

“Good, now give me your gun,” he put his hand out as you handed him the gun. He took out a pack of bullets and began to show you the basics.

“This is a bullet,” he held the silver metallic bullet between his thumb and index finger, “Small but deadly.”

He then pulled out a magazine, “This is a maganize- no, not the paper ones you see on the stores. This one contains bullets.”

You took the magazine and felt its weight, “You need to put this,” he pointed to the magazine, “inside this,” he then pointed to the gun.

“Just pull on this tiny lever,” he pointed to the top of the gun near the end where it had a small lever pull, “It should release the empty magazine.”

You pulled on the small lever and watched as the used magazine fell down into your palm. It was empty.

“Okay, now put the new one inside, should be easy,” he mumbled the last part as he watched you insert the loaded magazine into the gun. He clapped quietly.

“Good job, novata, now pull on the slide,” he tapped the slide on top of the gun. You gently grasped the top part and slid it backwards and watched as I slid forward with a clinking sound.

“You’re all set, now shoot that dummy,” you took a deep breath and aimed the gun at the middle dummy. Your index finger slowly curled into the trigger before pulling on it.

The sound of a gunshot fired echoed through the room as you watched the bullet go through the center of the red circle target. Josue whistled and then crossed his arms over his chest.

“So you can shoot… nicely done,” he patted your shoulder.

You smiled softly as you actually saw the way you perfectly aimed the dummy’s target. Who knew you had an affinity for gun shooting?

-

It was a long morning for Leon. The different time zones made his brain become a little mushy before he finally realize where he was.

It was morning when he left and it’s morning at he arrived at Pruye. It seemed like this morning lasted for an entire day.

He groaned as he woke up and stretched in his seat. He looked around and saw that he was the only one away so far. Leon sighed and walked over to the restroom of the plane.

He stood in front of the sink mirror and splashed water on his face. As he stared back at his reflection, the pilot began to speak over the speaker, "We will land in 45 minutes. I repeat, we will land in 45 minutes."

With a heavy sigh, Leon checked his weapons while still being in the restroom. One thing about Leon, although it may not look like it, is that he always made sure his guns were prepared. Maybe it was because he worked such a dangerous job all the time, maybe it was also because he liked to have some sense of control in his life.

He went back to his seat and noticed that all the other soldiers had started to wake up. The closer they got to Pruye, the more horrible his gut feeling became. He knew something would happen once they stepped foot in the foreign country. But maybe it was the PTSD talking.

Leon sat back down and kept staring out the window as the view of the country began to set into place. It was a small island with a lot of buildings.

-

You were with Yarina as she briefed you on the latest news, "We've received a plane signal up in the sky. American Airlines are approaching and are about half an hour from landing. I want you and four other people to make your way over there and extract as much information in this USB," she handed you a black USB port.

"Y/n, the future of our country depends on whatever you find inside that building," She took a step closer to you, "If you must, shoot anyone who gets in the way. We cannot afford to fail, not right now when the opportunity is too good to ignore."

You nodded slowly, "You got it... I'll be back in no time."

"Good luck and thank you for helping us. We really do appreciate it, she whispered in your ear.

You gave her one solid nod before stepping towards a gate where the four other Insurgents stood. They all had their weapons strapped on their back, their uniform had a makeshift shield on their chest, arms, and legs.

"Ready, novata?" One of the male Insurgents asked as the other three entered a grey van. You nodded and followed them inside, The gates of the underground system opened, letting the driver drive the van out of the Insurgent camp.

-

"Prepare the anti-aircraft artillery and make sure to track the Insurgents going to the location, i want eyes everywhere, got it?" Yarina stated firmly as she walked around the Insurgent control room where TV's were displaying information about the plane radar as well as a camera following the van you were currently in.

"Yes ma'am, anti-aircraft ready for launch in three... two... one."

-

Leon's held on to one of the seats of the plane as they were met with turbulence. An alarm went off and the lights flashed red inside. Oxygen bags dropped down each isle of seats as the co-pilot spoke, "Everyone take a seat, we're experiencing unexpected movements from land. I repeat-"

The co-pilot got interrupted by the sudden sound of explosion against the plane. One of its wings had been hit by the anti-aircraft artillery. Leon immediately walked towards a window and sat that the wing was destroyed and on fire.

"We need to get off!" He yelled to the other soldiers. Leon walked towards the emergency exit and with brute force, he forced the door open. Wind entered the plane, causing everything to fly out.

"Come on!!" He yelled as he pushed some soldiers out of the door. Parachutes opened as the soldiers started to fall down the sky.

Another bomb hit the airplane, splitting it in half. Other soldiers got sucked out of the plane as Leon held on to the door's handle, The plane shook terribly as the alarm kept on blaring.

Just as Leon was about to jump out, he heard a pained scream of one of the shoulders. He turned his over his shoulder and saw that a female soldier had been stabbed in the abdomen with a metal rod. As she yelled in pain, blood spluttered out of her mouth. Leon let go of one hand from the door's handle and tried to reach the soldier.

The plane had been hit again by another bomb. This time, it caused the entire plane to explode.

-

You were running behind your team as they ran through the forest and towards the meeting location. As the bombs blew off, the ground shook and you turned your head towards the sky.

A plane had been hit and you watched as it exploded. You were able to see how some people jumped out of the plane with their parachutes.

Your heart began to beat faster as you realized how dangerous everything was turning out to be.

"Let's go, we've only got so much time before they call reinforcements," The leader of the team said. The team resumed their path towards the building.

You and the team approached the backside of the building, noticing how it was indeed heavily guarded by soldiers.

"Okay, this is the plan. We've got smoke bombs and hand grenades. We are to only use them when necessary, the point of this mission is to be as stealthy as possible. Everyone got their silencers?"

The team nodded as they clung on to their guns, including you.

The leader gave a solid nod before turning his attention back to the building. With his right hand, he signaled two soldiers off to the right side of the building. He did the same thing with the left side as well. He turned to look at you, "Stay here. Keep an eye out, those Americans could still be alive, and we need someone to signal us out." He handed you a red flare gun, "Remember, only when necessary."

You took the gun and nodded as you tucked it back into one of your pockets on your uniform. "Wait-" You suddenly spoke up, "Yarina wanted me to gather the data, I need to go with you guys."

The leader shook his head no, "No, you'll get yourself killed. Give me the USB and I'll take care of it." He put his hand out.

This was a mission given to you specifically by an ally. But you agreed to it anyway. With a sigh, you pulled out the USB and handed it to him, "Make it quick," you whispered to him.

He nodded and put the USB in his breast pocket. He got up and letf for the building.

The sun was still up and shinning its bright heat down on the island. You turned around and stared out towards the forest to keep watch. Taking your gun from your holster, you held in your hands and strained your ear to listen for any sounds.

-

Leon groaned as he woke up. He lifted himself up slowly from the ground. Slowly opening his eyes, he looked around and saw that he was currently in a forest. With furrowed brows and a confused expression, he stood up and looked around his surroundings. He looked up and sat his parachute stuck on a tree.

Right, his plane got bombed.

The last thing he remembered was a massive explosion and a parachute.

He must've fallen from the plane right before the impact. One step closer to death, he always thought.

Leon huffed and began to walk through the forest, trying to find civilization.

He still had his gun and knife, he checked to make sure.

-

As you waited for your team to finish up, you heard gunshots come from within the building. Your eyes widened and your heartrate increased. They've been found.

Just as you were about to go help them, you heard rustling coming from the forest. You gripped on your gun and aimed it at the rustling bushes.

With a concentrated look, you remained silent and watched attentively as a man appeared from the forest.

-

Leon's eyes burned as he stepped out of the forest and into the bright sunlight. He was too blind in the moment to notice a young girl aiming her weapon at him.

Once his eyes adjusted, his eyes fell on her. He quickly pulled out his own weapon and pointed it at her.

"Put your gun down," He demanded lowly.

-

Your eyes twitched as you gripped the gun tighter, "No."

The man kept his serious face before taking a step towards you. You took a step back in response.

Your attention was directed back to the building as the ground shook from an explosion. The hand grenades...

Without notice, the man ran up to you and kicked your gun away from your hand. You gasped in shock and quickly shielded yourself with your arms.

The man swiped under your feet, causing you to fall down to the floor. He ran up behind you and wrapped his arm around your neck in a headlock position.

Your hands found their way to his forearm as you tried to pry his arm off. This man was strong and muscular and compared to your figure, you were surprised you haven't died from the lack of oxygen.

With a swift motion, you swayed to the side, causing to fall down on the floor. His grasp loosened as you slipped away. You ran towards your gun, you picked it up and kicked his gun away from his reach.

The man groaned in annoyance and looked at you before taking his knife from his sheath. He held it in his hands and began to approach you.

"Don't move or I'll shoot!" You threatened.

He scoffed and narrowed his eyes at you, "You've had plenty of chances to do that, sweetheart."

You mimicked his expression, "Stop or I will."

He stopped walking and stood up straight, staring at you dead in the eyes. He scoffed again, "Go ahead. Try."

He ran up to you with his knife. You barely had enough time to duck away from him, his knife grazing your arm. Causing a wound to open up and bleed. You hissed in pain and glared at him. With your other hand, you aimed the gun at him and pulled the trigger, only to miss the shoot by an inch on his thigh.

"Jesus-" He mumbled as he moved to the side to evade your bullets. He ran up to you again, this time to punch you.

You jumped out of the way and hit him in the abdomen with your foot. He stumbled back but quickly reached for your leg and pulled you down to the floor. Your back hit the grassy floor with a thud as you groaned in pain. He quickly kicked the gun out of your hands and watched as you scrambled to your feet to fight him with your fists.

"You sure you want this, princess?" He raised a brow as he saw your stance. He exhaled through his nose loudly before he also got in a stance. You were relentless, he thought to himself.

You nodded, "I can fight just fine."

"Could've fooled me," he mumbled and began to throw punches at you.

You could only avoid some of them and the ones that you couldn't hurt so much. Just as you were about to launch a punch, the man fell to his knees and to the ground.

You furrowed your brows confused and looked towards the building and saw that the team leader had shot him with a dart gun. The man passed out on the floor unconscious as he succumbed to the sedative.

-

"Madam President, there's been an attack on the American plane. There were no reports of survivors so far," The female assistant said to the president as they stood on the entry of the building.

President Mendez had an angry look but didn't say anything yet. She simply walked back inside the building and motioned for a Pruyanian to walk up to her. She slapped the soldier and gripped his jaw, "Tell the commander that he is responsible for those Americans. If I find that there are no survivors, I will kill everyone in this godforsaken country."

She let go of his jaw and watched as he scurried off to somewhere. Then she turned to look at her assistant, "I want you to put a warning announcement for tonight."

She cleared her throat before continuing, "We will publicly execute anyone who defy me. If anyone is associated with any sort of rebellion, they will be publicly shot."

-

Leon slowly opened his eyes, adjusting to the dark night. It had turned night during the time he'd been asleep. He tried to move but found his wrists tied up to a tree. He looked around and saw that there was a campfire in the middle of the forest.

And then his eyes fell on you. You were sitting in front of the fire, away from the other Insurgents as they were asleep. You kept watch, he thought to himself.

You seemed so focused as you stared down at the fiery orange flames that you didn't seem to notice that the man had woken up. You took your gun and stood up, ready to walk out of the forest. He narrowed his eyes at you as you walked out of the forest and towards the building.

With a heavy sigh, he reached for his hidden pocketknife and began to cut the tie on his wrists. He'd have to give it them, they put up one hell of a fight.

Leon patted his pockets and realized that they had stripped him of all his weapons. He groaned quietly and rolled his head back against the bark of the tree.

-

You walked through the forest as you tried to reach the building once again. This time, you wanted to rescue Victoria- Josue's sister. As you stealthily walked through the forest, you hid behind a bush and watched as more soldiers surrounded the perimeter of the building. There were helicopters flying above with their search lights in lookout for any intruders.

Just as you were about to bounce, the sound of a night announcement interrupted your thoughts and actions. The TV screen on the tall tower turned on and began to broadcast the president.

-

"Dear citizens of Pruye, it has come to my attention that there's been recent violent activity targeting not only your brothers and sisters but also strangers from other allies. We must terminate such behavior and make sure that our country remains peaceful. Those who show resistance and insubordination will be terminated."

Leon's face scrunched up at that announcement, the older Insurgents woke up and stared in horror, "She's going to kill us..." one of them whispered in fear.

It was justifiable to feel scared at the sudden target on your back. It was no longer safe being out in the streets without getting murdered.

-

"But with bad news, comes good news," the president as she had an unsettling smile on her face.

"We've distributed our medicine to the four city states surround our base quarters. We will no longer fall behind to the other countries."

Footages of people appeared on the TV. But they weren't people anymore. They had turned into monsters, flesh eating and violent monsters.

Your eyes widened and your jaw fell slack as you witnessed the way the government had turned some of its civilians into things that were far from human.

-

Leon was just as shock; he immediately recognizes what was going on. The government had given its citizens a mutated branch of the T-Virus under the pretext that it was medicine. And it caused many innocent lives to be turned into B.O.Ws. His expression was one of shock and anger.

The four city states were now contaminated of zombies and B.O.Ws. And he dreaded ever being sent here.

-

You took this opportunity to quickly climb through the window of the building, sneaking inside quietly as you tried to find Victoria. There was no time for grieving, you wanted to save as many lives as possible as well end this government once and for all.

You held your gun up as you quietly walked up the stairs. As you neared the fourth floor, you could hear faint sobbing coming from the end of the hall. There was a door halfway opened that allowed for the sounds to echo through the hall. With slow and quiet steps, you approached the room and peeked through the opening.

Victoria.

You quickly entered the room and lowered your weapon. She had been tied up to a chair as she was covered in blood and sweat. They'd been torturing her and you can see the exhaustion in her eyes.

"Victoria, your brother wanted me to rescue you. He's safe and he's alive," you quickly murmured as you untied her. Her wrists were free and she hugged you tightly. You slowly wrapped your arms around her. Poor girl has been here for god knows how long.

"Let's get you out of here," You pulled back and began to descend down the hall and down the stairs to where you snuck in.

Once you and victoria made it safely outside, you dragged her to the forest where the other Insurgents were currently camping.

-

"Wait... where's Y/n?" one of the Insurgents asked as he looked around and saw that you were gone. He looked over at Leon and walked up to him, scrunching up his shirt as he got right up in his face, "You saw her, didn't you?" the insurgent seethed through gritted teeth.

"I saw the direction she went but not exactly where she went," Leon grumbled under his breath.

The Insurgent was about to punch Leon until rustling from the forest began to sound all throughout. The insurgents drew their weapons but then lowered them as they saw you run back to them with Victoria.

"Vic?" One of the female insurgents asked, "We thought you were dead-"

"I'm okay," she replied weakly, "She saved me," Victoria pointed to you and you gave the other Insurgents a curt nod.

"I hate ruining special moments like this but we need to leave, they'll send a search party for us. Let’s go now!” The team leader said as he began to walk back towards where they had parked the van.

“Wait, what about the American?” They all turned to look at Leon who was still tied up on the tree.

“We take him back to base, he’ll be our key to President Mendez.”

Two insurgents nodded and began to untie Leon and drag him behind the leader. You and Victoria walked behind them as you tried to comfort her.

-

Once you all had reached the van, you entered the backseat with Victoria next to you and the American in front of you. You kept a close eye on Victoria as she seemed to not be doing too well.

“She’s got a wound on her arm,” the American mumbled as he looked at you. You furrowed your brows and looked back at Victoria’s arm.

He was right. She’d been bleeding. You took a medkit from the van and began to treat her wound as best as you could, all while getting flashbacks of Esme and how you couldn’t save her.

But now wasn’t the time to think back on everything. Right now what mattered the most was making sure Victoria and the rest of the team made it back to La Sénte.

You leaned back against the wall of the van, staring right at the American in front of you.

He stared right back at you.

“So…” he started quietly, “What‘s your name?”

You scoffed and crossed your arms above your chest, “Why do you want to know?”

“Well, y’know, since you guys are taking me captive and are planning to use for whatever reason. I thought I’d at least have some info on you guys,” he replied as I stared at you with a slight smirk.

You furrowed your brows and sighed, “My name’s Y/n L/n, yours?”

“Leon S. Kennedy,” he nodded once at you before looking at Victoria.

“You said you saved her?” He looked back at you with a raised brow, to which you nodded.

Hu hummed lowly in response before letting the silence overtake the atmosphere.

This was going to be a long ride.

[mistydear]

soften me now, let me take as is given (xviii)

billie dean howard x reader summary: You meet Billie in mourning. She's too professional, and you're too angry, and it takes too long to see her again. And again. And again as your lives tumble together. w/c: 2.9k taglist: unsure! let me know if you're still interested chapter one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, twelve, thirteen, fourteen, fifteen, sixteen, seventeen, eighteen notes: hi! i've actually had this chapter and most of the next chapter written for a long time and never posted them. not sure why, but i'm going to get 19 posted in a couple days just because i can and should. can't make any promises, but this story lives in my head still. so i want to finish it. to whoever reads this, thank you! and i hope you enjoy :) warnings: discussion of cancer

The last few weeks, Billie thinks, have been oversaturated with you. Like a movie screen with the vibrancy up so high it hurts her eyes, makes her dream in colors that don’t exist. It’s terrible. And Billie just can’t stop, doesn’t have the willpower to grab onto something steady, something real to stop the spinning. She’s sick with you, absolutely run down and overwhelmed by your warmth and gratitude and patience and humor. God, you can make her laugh. Harder than she has in years. It scares her half to death sometimes when she looks at you and wonders. Not just about brushing your hair back for you or sliding a hand tight around your waist or kissing your soft, lovely lips. But about waking up next to you, getting to see you bathed in a soft morning light, knowing how you take your coffee and making it for you every morning. Billie finds herself wanting something much softer and more tender with you than she’s allowed herself to have in a long time. She wants to love you. 

The last time she took you out to dinner, it was at some swanky bistro in West Hollywood. And as soon as you noticed that they didn’t post the prices on the menu, you blushed and set it down. 

“Billie, I can’t afford this,” you admit with considerable difficulty and humiliation, your cheeks tinging red in the candlelight. Billie forces down a blissful, hazy grin and reaches over, covering your hand with hers. 

“Darling, I’m taking you out to dinner. I don’t expect you to pay.” Your cheeks flush darker at the term of endearment, and you swallow, pulling your hand away and down into your lap. 

“This is too much,” you breathe, and Billie’s eyes search yours, her smile flickering and fading, trying to hide her panic. 

“Did I overstep?” She’s been worried, endlessly it seems, about stepping too carelessly into romance and getting burned, about making it awkward and uncomfortable. Billie doesn’t think she could stand that, not with you. They’ve worked too hard to be friends to then get lost in some terrible unrequited crush. Fiddling with your napkin, your jaw tightens momentarily before you look back at Billie. 

“No, you’re not…” you take a breath. “You’re not overstepping. I’m just not used to being paid for. I don’t want to owe you anything.” 

“You could never,” Billie says, brow furrowed because the idea itself is ridiculous. It takes a minute for you to accept that, but as soon as Billie sees it on your face, she smiles, soft and easy. “Unfortunately, I’m rather fond of you. It’s what I do for people I like.” 

“Buy them things?” you ask, a hint of amusement creeping in. Billie chuckles, resting her elbow on the table, her chin on her knuckles. 

“Spoil them,” she allows herself to say, eyes sparkling in the low, warm light. Your eyes lock with hers in surprise, and then you swallow. 

“You are not the same Billie Dean Howard I met on my front porch,” you say with a shake of your head. “I feel like I’m constantly uncovering a little bit more of you.” Your voice begs a question Billie isn’t sure how to answer. She feels like any explanation might give too much away. She helped you when you were nothing but cruel to her. She bought your house. She was so patient with you, and you with her. And now you’re here, and she’s spoiling you the way she does with the people who steal her affections. Billie swallows, resting her hands back in her lap. 

“I’m sorry it’s taken so long. I’m not an easy person to get to know.” 

“Please don’t apologize,” you chuckle, shifting forward. “I promise you I understand. Besides, it’s kinda exciting.” 

“Exciting?” Billie drones, looking at you over her lashes. 

“Yes” you laugh. “I’m never bored.” Billie huffs out a laugh and rolls her eyes. 

“I’m glad I’m so entertaining for you.” You grin, biting your lip, and your eyes are shining in the candlelight, and Billie wants to kiss you. 

Later in the night, after Billie steals the check from you before you can look at it and you’re walking to your cars arm in arm, you lean your head on her shoulder. Billie stiffens. 

“Maybe next time, we can start talking about the really deep stuff. Like your favorite color.” Billie lets herself grin, chest tight, and rests her cheek against your head. 

“It’s taupe,” she mumbles, and your head shoots up from her shoulder, horrified and disbelieving. 

“You’re kidding.” 

“Yes, I’m kidding,” she chuckles, and you press a hand to your heart in relief. “It’s green.” 

“Green,” you echo, resting your head back down, your steps falling in line.

“Like spanish moss,” Billie offers, and you hum. 

“That’s oddly specific.” 

“There’s not much that I miss about my childhood,” Billie breathes. “But climbing all the big oak trees and watching the spanish moss sway in the breeze was…” You lift your head, turning to watch Billie’s furrowed brow and faraway eyes. “It was a nice escape.” 

“Escape from what?” you ask quietly, and Billie swallows, giving you a brief, tight smile. You give her one back, but it’s sadder, more careful, and then you’re leaning in, squeezing Billie’s arm, your thumb across her bicep. It’s a little thing, a small comfort, but it means the world to her. And she’s afraid to look up at you. Afraid she might kiss you. 

“Thank you for coming to dinner with me,” she says, mustering the restraint to meet your eyes. Your arm tightens in Billie’s, and you’re smiling. 

“Thank you for agreeing to come to Norah’s birthday party.” Billie exhales the tightness in her chest. “It’s this Saturday. Don’t forget.” 

“I wouldn’t miss it,” she says, and it’s the truth. An opportunity to see you in any context was something she couldn’t ever pass up. Then you pull her into a hug, tight and warm, and Billie closes her eyes against you, fingers splayed across your back. “Goodnight, Y/N.” 

“Night, Billie.” 

. . . 

Billie’s curled up on her couch the night before Norah’s party in satin pajamas. There’s a steaming cup of tea on her end table and a book nestled in her lap. She’s startled by the sound of her phone ringing but even more startled to see who’s calling. With a deep, settling breath, she dog ears her book and sets it down next to her tea. 

“Hi dad,” she breathes. 

“Good to hear your voice, honey bunches,” he says, that southern twang drawn and tired. She checks the time. South Carolina is four hours ahead of Los Angeles which would make it two in the morning there. Something surges up within her, choked and panicky. 

“What happened?” He lets out a strained chuckle, and she can picture him scrubbing his fingers across his scruffy jaw. 

“Y’know how your mama’s had that cough.”

“No,” Billie shoots back. “I didn’t know.” Her father hums. 

“Musta been Jamie I was talkin’ to then,” he offers. “Your brother actually calls home to check in every once an’a while.” 

“Dad,” Billie groans, pressing her fingers into her temple. “Please just tell me what happened.” 

“She started up that coughing. Couldn’t catch her breath. I pat her back, gave her water,” he sighs, pausing. “There was blood in it, Billie. Curlin’ down like smoke. An’ she just looks up at me with a face I ain’t seen since you up and left. Resigned and so hard. Then she swallows and licks those lips and says, James, get my coat.” The silence on the line is deafening, and Billie numbly registers her ears ringing. “So here we are, Hoffman-Strauss Memorial.”

Billie’s throat is thick, and she blinks once then twice, chest tight. 

“Okay.” Her voice is hoarse. She swallows. “Have you seen a doctor yet?” 

“Just a room. Your mama’s sleepin’. She’s scheduled for a CT at 8.” 

“And Jamie knows?” He hums. 

“She’s too proud to say it, but she wants you to call her.” Billie scoffs, holding her hand over her eyes as she shakes her head.

“The only thing she wants to hear from me is that I’m leaving Hollywood,” she says, suddenly so weary. 

“Set it aside, Billie Dean. Just for a minute,” he tells her, harder this time, with less give. Her shoulders deflate, and she swallows, looking down into her lap. “I love you.” 

“Love you, dad.” When she hangs up, the world feels like it’s tilted on its axis. The last time she spoke to her mother, Billie’s face had been in the tabloids, her name spoken like a disgraced Hollywood starlet. Out of all the things her mother’s ever said to her, that phone call was relatively tame. It was expected, usual. The guilt, the shaming, the moral superiority. And now she’s coughing blood. Some might call that divine intervention. Absently, Billie laughs. It’s a weak chuckle, but it grows. And as it does, Billie’s chest seizes up. She laughs and laughs, but there’s a growing pit in her chest, and she’s starting to feel hysterical. She just can’t stop. And then the laughter turns gasping, and she can’t breathe. And my god, the hardest woman in America is coughing blood. She is a human being. Delicate and fallible. 

Billie presses her palms into her eyes. “Fuck. Fuck.” 

She remembers pressing a wet cloth to the back of your neck when you broke down over Kate, and Billie tries to treat herself with the same patience, the same kindness. What do you need right now? Slowly, she forces her breathing to slow, shuts out everything but the in and out of her breath and the occasional flash of your smile in her mind’s eye, your gentle hands on her arms. Jamie. She hasn’t spoken to him since his birthday. He reminds her too much of her childhood, so she tries to stay away. Not tonight. Her heart is pounding when she presses call, and she feels lightheaded, but she forces herself to stay on the line as it rings. 

“Dad called you too, huh?” he asks when the phone connects, and immediately her breathing evens and slows. 

“Yeah,” she says quietly as the world stops spinning around her. 

“Takes a lot for you to reach out. The news must’ve rattled you.” 

“I’m fine,” she says immediately, rubbing circles in her chest. He scoffs, and she closes her eyes. He hasn’t lost his accent, but it’s weaker now, stilted. Though his voice hasn’t changed, that richness, that unwavering steadiness is still there. 

“Alright. Goodnight, then.” 

“Wait,” Billie starts, and she hears him settle and exhale. “I’m sorry. I just don’t know…” she scoffs and shakes her head. 

“I know,” he says, low and even. There’s a thick silence between them, and Billie remembers his hair, brown and unruly. She always used to ruffle it. She wonders how he styles it now. Is it shorter? How does his wife like it? Does she like that scruff he refuses to shave? Or does he shave it now? They’re little things, she knows, inconsequential really. But it’s the missing she can’t let go of now. The disconnect. 

“How are you?” she asks finally, and he chuckles. 

“I’m alright. Business is tightening with the economy, but we’re fine. Addison’s still with her firm. Could be making partner next year.” 

“That’s great, Jamie, really,” she says with a smile. He doesn’t respond right away. 

“How are you? I saw the magazines.” Her blood runs cold. “Come on, Bill, I know mom ragged you on it.” Jamie’s known she’s a lesbian since high school when he caught her kissing her best friend against the shed one hot summer afternoon. Feeling bitter, Billie stands up. 

“I’m used to her bullshit,” she says, grabbing her cigarettes and stepping onto her balcony. When she lights one, it’s an immediate relief. “The press? Not as much,” she admits. 

“What’s it like bein’ a Hollywood hotshot?” he asks, a laugh in his voice. She takes a deep drag, shaking her head.

“I try not to acknowledge it,” she admits. 

“Me and Addie’ve been watching your show.” She taps ash over her balcony and clenches her jaw. “Don’t get like that,” he drones without ever seeing her face. “It’s good. Really good.” 

“You never used to think it was good,” she says, embarrassed and maybe too bitter. Jamie always stood around a corner and watched when their mother would yell at her, tell her to stop that. It’s not right. As if she had any choice in the matter. As if she wanted to see the dead roaming her house on a Saturday afternoon. She was so alone. And then Jamie would look at her with those big, shameful eyes and turn away to go play with his friends, knees muddy and bruised. Jamie takes a breath on the other line. 

“You really think I had a say in it, Billie Dean?” 

“No,” she replies quickly and then sighs. “No, I don’t,” she adds, softer. “But you could have…” she trails off, rebellious tears welling in her eyes. She takes another long drag, trying to will them away. “Later, you could have…” 

“You mean later when you moved out and didn’t talk to any of us for five years? Or do you mean later when you sent me a Christmas card and spelled Addie’s name wrong.” Billie blushes fiercely, jaw clenched as she looks down, looks away as if Jamie’s staring right at her right now. “I know that your experiences with mom were a lot different than mine, but I ain’t the enemy.” She takes a long drag as she looks out at the skyline. She knows he’s right, but she doesn’t know how to let her body know that. 

“I’m sorry,” she finally admits, blowing smoke into the warm breeze. 

“I’m sorry too.” They’re both silent for a long time. “Listen, Billie. I’m tired. I’m driving in tomorrow. I’ll call you with news, alright?” 

“Alright,” she says, quiet as she looks down at her feet. 

“Try to get some sleep,” he says before the call disconnects. 

. . . 

When the sun comes up, Billie’s neck deep in a scientific journal about lung cancer. Her eyes are red, and her tea is long since cold, and her brow feels permanently furrowed, lips sealed in a hard line. It’s 6:30 when she finally turns her neck in another direction, peels her laptop from her skin, and licks her chapped lips. Her whole body is buzzing and achy, and she swallows, sending a vague text to cancel her things for the day. And then she drags herself to bed and sleeps so fitfully she could barely call it sleep. 

She only wakes up at noon to the sound of her phone ringing. Bleary and dazed, she pulls it toward her, hair across her face. 

“Hello?” she mumbles. 

“They’re gonna do some more tests, but…” Jamie sighs, and Billie feels electricity shoot through her in an icy, terrible jolt. 

“It’s cancer,” she says, cold and empty. 

“Is it surprising?” Jamie chuckles wearily, “she smokes like a chimney.” Billie’s stomach flips and a rush of dizziness takes over. 

“Now what?” 

“I don’t know.” 

. . . 

Billie doesn’t know what to wear to a party like this, but she does have more than enough black for a funeral. Stop. Stop it. Billie wants to scrub her mind clean with a brillo pad. Her chest clenches, and she closes her eyes, willing away the intrusive thoughts that want to swallow her whole. She doesn’t even know what to feel. All she can manage is panic and avoidance. It’s something to deal with later. Not now. Please, not now. She’ll have to make the trip down south. She knows this. It’s inevitable. Christ. 

Instead of digging through her closet, hair still wet after her shower, she walks to the kitchen and pours herself a glass of bourbon. She’s going to a party in two hours. Isn’t that what one does? Drink beforehand? 

. . . 

“Andy’s not coming,” you announce when you enter Norah’s apartment with several grocery bags full of various liquors. 

“What?” Norah asks, poking her head out from the kitchen. She’s unpackaging red solo cups, both shot glass and full size. 

“We had a fight.” 

“Uh oh,” she intones, “what happened?” You sigh, setting down the bags on her dining room table. 

“I told her I didn’t want her at the party.” Norah raises her brow, pressing a hand to her hip patiently. 

“Is everything okay?” You don’t know how to answer that. The excuse you gave Andy was some story about how you always attended Norah’s parties with Kate, and you didn’t want to feel like you’re replacing her this year, and it was thin and unbelievable even to Andy. 

“I’m pushing her away,” you finally admit, eyes squeezed tight. When you open them, Norah’s head is tilted, her eyes soft. 

“Why?” she asks carefully, stepping forward, folding her arms over her chest. 

“I think I feel trapped?” you guess, wringing your hands. “She loves me. She hasn’t said it, but I know she does. And I don’t think I can love her back.” 

“Because of Kate?” 

“Partially. I don’t know. I don’t wanna talk about it anymore,” you sigh, shaking your head and waving the topic away with your hands. “Let’s just get ready for this party.” Norah gives you a searing look, a hint of a smile on her lips, before continuing on. Though there’s something in her eyes that unsettles you, something she knows that she’s not saying. You chew your lip and try not to think about it. 

[spicywhenspeaking]

If I'm There: Chapter Twelve

read from the start

summary: Noah and Natalie meet in high school and developed a relationship through their love of music and art. Falling in love, innocent and young, they think nothing can keep them apart. However, sometimes in the pursuit of your dreams the things we love the most get left behind.

warnings : mentions of alcohol abuse. this story contains mature themes, minors do not interact.

taglist : @lma1986 @cookiesupplier @notingridslurkaccount @blackveilomens @thisbicc @thebadchic

It's the first Saturday in a while that I don’t have work and all I want to do is watch movies and rot in my bed. I decide to wait to talk to Noah about the voicemail, I don't want to think the worst It doesn’t stop the feelings from festering but I’m trying to be mature.

 I head downstairs to grab something to eat for breakfast and I see a letter on the kitchen counter addressed to me. It’s from the scholarship fund I applied for last year. 

Dear Miss Howlston, 

We regret to inform you that we are unable to process your application due to it being incomplete. You are therefore ineligible for the McGovern Scholarship Fund……

My breathing goes rapid as I read the words. Inside is the application I sent in. I flip to the end page, tears welling into my eyes and blurring my vision, and see the highlighted section where my Mom was supposed to sign. It is empty. I asked her over and over and over. I even sat in front of her with a pen but she was too preoccupied with opening her next bottle of wine to pay any attention. I should have just forged it. Why didn’t I forge it?!

“What the fuck.” I whimper out as heavy tears fall like raindrops.

“What the fuck!” I repeat. My limit has been reached. I cannot hold it in anymore.

I crumple the paper, forgetting the bowl of cereal I prepared on the counter, and run upstairs as sobs begin to wrack my body. I get to my room, slam the door, and dive head-first into my pillows as another sob leaves my mouth. I grab my phone and try Noah’s cell, the feelings of jealousy are pushed away for the moment, I just need to talk to him. 

Ring ring ring ring *click* “Hey Natty! It’s Nick, sorry Noah just ran out with Alex to grab everyone coffees. I guess he forgot his phone, what's up?”

 A teenage girl can only handle so much in so little time, I cannot handle this. One hit after the next and now when I need Noah, just to hear him and talk to him he's with some other girl he didn't even tell me about. “Nick, I-” I pause. “Just forget I called. I’ll talk to you later.” I say and as I press the red end-call button I hear Nick's “Wait, Nat-” click. 

The emotions I’m feeling are in an epic battle for dominance. The sadness and anger I feel towards my Mom, the loneliness and heartache I feel towards Noah. Is this life with him? Just waiting and hoping I hear from him. I should have told him how I felt about it before now, now I’m upset. I’m angry. I lay back against the pillows as fresh tears fall onto my cheeks and I hear a soft knock at my door.

“What?” I call out. 

“Um, can I come in?’ Kyle asks softly.

“Sure.” I roll away from the door so my back is facing him as he opens up and takes a step inside. 

“So I saw the letter in the kitchen,” he says and walks towards the bed. I feel it dip as he takes a seat on the corner. “I’m so sorry Nat.”

The tears fall harder and he places his hand gently on my shoulder and squeezes. 

“It was the biggest one” sob “I ca-can’t afford the sc-schools I applied to without it.” I wipe the tears from my eyes. “The money I’ve saved from work is supposed to go towards moving and housing. Fuck. Why did I think art school was a good idea? What was I thinking? I’ll be stuck here for the rest of my life while everyone else is off living their dreams.” I know I’m being melodramatic but I don’t care. 

“I have some money saved from working with Dad this summer,” Kyle tells me in a soft voice. “you could have it for school.”

I turn around, surprised at his offer. “Kyle. I couldn't accept that. You earned that working for Dad, having probably a horrible summer.” He laughs at my comment.

My phone lights up with Noah's contact photo. I stare at it for a few moments before hitting the end call button sending him to voicemail. 

A few seconds later its ringing again and I reject the call and turn off my phone. I just can’t talk to him right now. 

“Um, is everything alright?” Kyle asks awkwardly after noticing me decline Noah’s calls.

“Yeah…well. Sort of? Not really. It’s complicated. I need to talk to him but I don’t want to right now. It’s.-” I look at Kyle and he has an unnatural look of concern on his face. “I know you don't want to hear about my relationship drama. You said so yourself.” 

A look of shame crosses his face. “I was an asshole, in more ways the one and I’m sorry for saying that. You can talk to me about anything Nat.” I sniffle as more tears continue falling. “I appreciate that Ky, I really do. I just don’t want to think about this thing with Noah and this scholarship thing, you know I didn’t even get to apply for financial aid because Mom didn't give me her proof of income. I’m totally screwed.” I wish I could call her. Yell at her for ruining my future. Scream at her for being so selfish, for being sick, for making Kyle and I take care of ourselves for so long. “I can apply for student loans I guess,” I mumble out, the last thing I wanted to do was build a mountain of debt. “Ugh, I don't want to think about it anymore.”

“Do you want to watch a movie or something?” Kyle asks.

Sitting up in bed I wipe the remaining tears from my face. I know my eyes must be puffy and red but with a small smile on my face I agree to the movie. “As long as it's horror, no lovey stuff right now. Just blood and guts.” Kyle laughs, “deal” 

We go downstairs and decide to watch “Sinister.” It offers an escape from my current thoughts and after watching Kyle tells me he’s ordering a pizza for dinner. Dad texted that he’s staying at his house near his job site since he has an early morning, not much of a surprise. 

When I get into my room I turn my phone back on and see I have some missed texts from Noah.

Noah: hey Natty :) Nick said you called, you ok? 1:20pm

Noah: Sorry I didn't call last night, the show ended late and we all stayed up until like 4am. 1:20pm

Noah: Natty? Everything okay? 1:35pm

Noah: call me when you get a chance, I miss the sound of your voice. 2:26pm

I stare at the messages. “Everything okay”  I repeat in an annoyed voice. “No, everything isnt okay. My future is fucked and I have no plan.” I say to myself.

I take a deep calming breath and call Noah. 

Ring ring- *click* “Natty! I’m so glad you called. I miss you so much.” Noahs voice is light and happy and I just wish he was here. Two weeks between tests or projects goes by with lightning speed, two weeks without Noah moves at a glacial pace.

“Hey Noah.” My voice is soft and I have to clear my throat to break through the tightness forming. “I miss you too.” 

“I’m sorry I didn’t call last night,” but you did call, you just didnt know. “We didnt leave the venue until like midnight, it was wild. So much fun, I wish you were here.” 

“Yeah, sounds like you guys were having a really great time.” I’m trying to hide the emotions in my voice, just wanting to hear him and pretend nothing is wrong, but that can’t last forever. 

“Is everything alright Nat? You sound…weird, not weird but..you don't sound like yourself.” Noah says. 

Fuck, so much for hiding my emotions. “um I just got some news from my scholarship application today that was upsetting, and last night -” I try but Noah’s voice cuts me off. 

“Was it less than you expected?” He asks. 

“They denied me the scholarship and last ni-.” Noah cuts me off again. 

“What??!” Noah almost shrieked and I had to pull the phone from my ear. “Denied? With your grades? And you got first place in the last youth art contest last month, how could they deny you? When did you find out?”

“Um yeah, it's because my mom didn't sign something, I didn't realize it was sent in without it. I feel like such an idiot.” I mutter out defeated.

“Fuck, Natty. That sucks. Did something else happen? You called this morning and then just disappeared.” Noah questions.

“Well yeah, you did call me last night Noah.I guess you pocket-dialed me.” I tell him. “You were talking to some girl and she was asking you about the next leg of this tour. She was saying how much she’d miss you if didn’t go with them.” 

“Oh. Shit.” he breathes. “I’m sorry about that. It’s just Alex from the band we're opening for on the tour, she doesn't mean it like anything.”

“But you said maybe.” my voice is small.

“Well I have to consider it..Nat. it's a huge opportunity. You understand that right?” He sounds exasperated, like wondering how I could be opposed. 

“And school? What about that?” I ask, with more edge in my voice than I meant.

“Alex dropped out and her band is getting huge, I don’t need a high school diploma to make my dreams come true,” he responded with a slight sting in defense. 

“Oh, and whatever Alex says goes huh? You're just dropping out?” And now I’m getting angry, the festering feelings that disappeared with the movie are returning with white-hot intensity. “You were with her last night after you said you’d try and call me and then this morning I got that letter that absolutely destroys my future and when I call Nick answers and you are busy again with her..” I bite out.

“What are you implying?” he asks.

“I’m not impling anything, I tired to call. You were busy. Thats a fact.” I bite back.

“I’m sorry Natty, but nothing happened on the trip, with Alex if that's what you're thinking,” he says. “This kind of exposure is exactly what I’ve been working for. I thought you would be excited for me? I thought you believed in me?” Now his voice is small, like he’s genuinely upset and I feel sick that I’m the one that would have caused it. 

“I don't think anything happened. I trust you, Noah. I'm just going through a lot right now. I hung up on Nick because I was upset and then I didn't return your texts because I was still upset. With you, with my mom just about everything. I needed you.” I take a deep breath before continuing. “Of course, I believe in you Noah, but I mean you're talking about just leaving school? We're seniors, so close to graduating already why throw it all away when you're so close.

“If I don't take this chance now I'll be throwing away this dream, there's no guarantee I'll get this opportunity again.” 

“So what? Do you want me to just sit around and wait for you to call? I mean that is if you call?” I ask him. 

“Why is this a fight? I thought you'd be happy for me?” Noah’s voice is rising with frustration.

“It’s not a fight Noah, I just thought you’d take the time to at least talk about it with me about it first. I mean you talk all the time about our futures like you want them to be together but you’re making these huge decisions and not even telling me about it first.” I try to keep my voice steady but I know it's wobbling a little.

“I haven’t even decided yet, you’re talking like I’m doing this to hurt you. I am thinking about our future Natty, you could alway come with me?” He says and I scoff. 

“You’re not serious, are you? I could graduate early but not until the spring and after all the work I’ve done with my GPA. You’d ask me to just drop out?” I ask.

“You’d ask me to say no to this opportunity?” Noah questions in response. 

“You know what Noah? I think we should just talk about this when you get home. I have a lot of homework that I need to work on and this is just too much right now on top of everything else.” I tell him in a defeated voice. 

“I’m sorry Natty, I love you. I didn’t want to talk about it like this. I can’t stand you being sad because of me.” 

“I love you too Noah, It'll be okay. Let's just talk later okay?" 

We finish our goodbyes and I toss my phone back on the bed and take the homework out of my backpack.

The rest of the week is slow. School and work are uneventful. Noah and I barely text and it feels awful, what happened? It was great for months and he leaves for two weeks and falls apart? Is our relationship that fragile? 

Friday I’m working behind the counter while a jazz trio plays for the night as our live musical guests. I don’t hate it, I guess. Noah is supposed to get in tonight but we didn't really make plans, I’m not sure if I’ll see him. I’m busy checking the syrups and making sure all of the milk options are full in the fridge when I hear someone clear their throat behind me.

I turn around and like just the thought of him caused him to appear Noah is standing in front of me. 

“Hey Natty”

Next chapter here!!!! Thank you besties!!!!!!

divider from here!

[sketchfanda]

Kirishima’s Mystique:Price to Pay

Being a pro hero was never an easy line of work certainly and that wasn’t just taking into account the risks involved dealing with super crooks, nevermind homicidal villains and freakish genetic abominations. One of the biggest non-hazard issues had to the matter regarding collateral damage, many didn’t want to risk a repeat of the near fiasco that occurred for American pro hero Mr.Incredible after all. In his defence that guy he saved from committing suicide was being a petty ingrate but at least it was avoided, but all the same, it was an unspoken rule that you cause the wrong kind of damage! You’d better be ready to set it right.

For our resident hard headed redhead of course, he was seriously wishing he could turn back time and get out of such a situation he found himself in. Really who could blame the poor guy as he was currently bowing and kneeling low as one could before one very pissed off, swimsuit clad orange haired bombshell, apologising best he could but knowing it’d be in vain. After all you don’t go and trash an entire yacht belong to the one and only Ms.Nami, former international pirate and cat burglar, renowned cartographer and navigator and glamour model. No sir, Kirishima knew his goose was cooked and she was going to get her compensation one way or another.

it’d been a routine enough type of mission, pursuing a crook who was using their quirk for unlawful purposes with the chase having been taken right into a harbour. It’d been expected that there would be collateral, so of course a few old rusty tubs or a warehouse getting wrecked was fine but then the guy brought them right to where a high class quality luxury yacht had been docked. That was when it all went to hell when the owner herself returned to find her little ocean based home away from home severely damaged and messed up after he’d finished securing the renegade for capture. The moment Eijiro recognised her on sight and the livid beyond belief expression on her face, he knew he was fucked.

Kirishima:”Please miss, I know I said I’m sorry enough and I definitely can’t afford the repairs, but I promise you on my honour as a hero and a man to make it up to you!!”*The chivalrous himbo declared, swearing he’d do whatever it took to set things right with Nami, least enough she wouldn’t sue for everything he, UA and HPSCA was worth. She was a very influential woman with some potent connections snd economic influence that matched her quite boner inducing. Seriously she was sexy as hell even when angry, not that he’d say that out loud to her. He wasn’t Mineta after all and he was in deep hot water enough as is.*

Nami:*Her chestnut coloured eyes glaring at Kirishima with enough intensity to match a laser, she processed his words and thought them over. As pissed off as she was, she still had enough sense to see a good opportunity presenting itself when she saw it.*”So you’d be willing to do anything then? Alright musclehead, I think I have a way you can work off your debt…follow me…”*Snapping her fingers as she had the sturdy hero trailer after her inside to the inner decks of her yacht that hadn’t been wrecked. A mischievous twinkle in her eyes and a sly grin as she could feel the himbo try not to stare at her glorious backside and fail.*

Nami was sexy and she knew it, so nothing she enjoyed as much as money was having the attention of a man on her she had to say Kirishima was more than easy on the eyes. Feeling his own crimson red peepers glued to her swimsuit clad rear as she added a little sway and sashay, tempted to twerk and make those thing devouring booty cheeks clap. A bounce in her playful rep as her boobs jiggled before they soon came to the servants quarters, entering inside as she opened a closet and fished out a butler’s outfit and handed it to him. Making it clear she wanted him to strip and change into it as she decided he would work off his debt by catering to her on hand and foot for as long as need be until they were square and even.

When Eijiro began to do just that of course, Nami couldn’t help but feel herself getting tingly in all the right places as inches and acres of sculpted, training honed and carved muscle was revealed to her. Sensually licking her lips as he carefully laid out the uniform and stood clad in a pair of tight spat boxers which highlighted quite a well toned ass and felt her thighs become warm and sticky from the flow of arousal pouring forth from her snatch. He was certainly dashing in his hero outfit but seeing him near naked like this was reminding Nami how bad a dry spell she had been having recently, now she was staring to have a different idea in mind for how he could work off his debt to her. One that would scratch her itch and prove to be much more fun for the both of them as she walked up behind him, hugging his waist as her arms wrapped around it and she pressed her here,r against his back in a way she knew he would feel the weight of her soft, plump titties.

Nami:*Purring as she whispered into his ear sensually and seductively, her hot breath on his skin making him tingly as she caressed the crotch of his boxer shorts. Erotically biting her lip as she felt the raw size contained within.*”Mmm, you know on second thoughts, I think I have a better idea for how you can work and lay off your debts to me. One that I think is going to be much more fun for the both of us…..”*Emphasising her point as she slid her hand down the waistband of his spats, her palm and fingers now directly groping snd grasping his length and girth. Panting and gasping as she felt her arousal skyrocket at the idea of tastin snd feeling this slab of meat.*

Kirishima:”W-well, when you put it that way, can’t see a reason to say no….”*Hell given the choice between go knows how many days and weeks being a butler to cover the yacht’s repair costs vs indulging in Nami’s sudden sexual thirst? It was clear which was the better option as he turned his head to allow Nami to press her lips to his, their tongues dancing together with sloppy desire as the glamour model moaned wantonly. The sturdy stud moving to sit on the edge of the bed, their liplock breaking with a strand of saliva between them as Nami knelt on the floor and pulled down his boxers. Gasping with delight as his cock sprang forth, smacking and resting on her face as she breathed in his manly scent.*

Nami couldn’t help but drool as lust flowed within her eyes, an erotic blush in her smiling face as she relished the sight and feel of such a slab of meat before her. Grasping it in her hands as she began to stroke and jerk him off, feeling it’s pulse as it grew erect with desire and proceeded to plant licks and kisses from top to base. Sucking, kissing and licking his balls before commencing with fellatio as she outright suffocated herself on his shaft as her chestnut eyes looked up at her newfound sex friend with devotion and delight. His groans and gasps of pleasure music to her ears before she popped her mouth off of his length and girth, giggling at the adorable pout he made finding his drool soaked cock deprived of her oral pleasure.

Only for her to proceed to ambush him with her personal patented “Happiness Punch” as she unclamped her swimsuit top snd undid the binding strings of her thong, letting them fall off as she took delight in his reaction. A gobsmacked reaction that contrasted with his twitching, pulsing lubed up cock as the tangerine haired hottie gave a sultry moan and licked her lips while cupping snd jiggling her magnificent titties in her hands. Which she followed through with sandwiching his shaft between those twin mounds as she began to trope and jerk him off with a marshmallow massage as she gave him a titfuck. Licking, kissing and sucking what was exposed from the valley of her glorious cleavage as he pumped and thrusted his hips out of instinct and reflect as her tongue’s tastebuds were dazzled by the taste of his flowing pre.

Nami had thought things were going well so far but the next thing she knew, it was getting even better as she suddenly found herself on the bed, head and shoulders on the mattress as she clutched the bedsheets for dear life. Her deepthroated moans echoing through the room as Kirishima her torso at a 90 degree angle, her legs spread as Kirishima had returned the favour for her blowjob titfuck combo by eating her out as his tongue plunged snd probed the moist folds of her snatch. Drinking up the flow of her nectar as he showed he was as good at giving back what he got, setting Nami’s nerves ablaze with spine tingling, mind numbing pleasure and ecstasy before he suddenly ambushed by penetrating her with his length and girth. Her vision flashing white as she was hit with an intense orgasm from the sudden invasion, inches of womb hammering, pussy stretching meat sinking in until he has bottomed out balls deep.

It was then and then Nami found her world being rocked as Kirishima proceeded to fuck her in a piledriver position, working her like some erotic butter churn as he aimed to work off his debts to her. Howling and crying with sexual abandon and delight at how good this this modern day caveman was fucking her as he soon shifted her body into a mating press, pushing her legs until her ankles were in either side of her head while her arms draping around his powerful shoulders as her tits pressed snd rubbed against his firm pecs as their tongues dancing together in a sloppy open air dance. Hearts flowing in her eyes as orgasms rocked her body one after another, her stomach bulging from his length and girth as her womb pulsed with the growing need to receive his seed and have him knock her up with his babies. Her brain’s inner voice chanting to get pregnant, toes curling at the idea of this himbo making her go on maternity leave as those heavy balls smacked and slapped her jiggling asscheeks like thunder.

How she loved every second of it, the raw, primal mind numbing spine tingling pleasure as this absolute unit of an alpha male lived out the sexual fantasies and wet dreams of most when it came to Nami. Pink glowing hearts in her her eyes as she currently found herself pinned up against the wall, arms and kegs draped around Kirishima’s muscular tank of a body. His cock jackhammering away into her snatch’s inviting warmth as a growing puddle of juices rained down on the floor, deepthroated moans pouring forth from her luscious dicksucking lips as she felt him blow his load finally. Hot, white baby batter flowing into her womb as her brain registered with delight at the fact that Kirishima hasn’t started going soft and limp, his cock as stiff and erect as it was when they started meaning their fun wasn’t anywhere close to finishing.

Nami:”Aaahn! So good, harder!! Don’t stop fucking me you sexy himbo!”*The tangerine haired hottie hollered and cheered on as she currently rode Kirishima cowgirl style, her face wearing an expression of what could only be called a bitch in heat as she relished his gaze in her bouncing tits. His hands shifting between groping them, squeezing her juicy ass or just showering her body with sensual affection.*”Aaahn, you’ve cum 3 times already and haven’t pulled out once!! Keep it up!! Make me have to go on maternity leave with your hero baby!!”*Such lewd remarks came forth from her mouth as the sturdy stud not only worked off his debts but wound up winning Nami’s heart and body. Which only made her want him to fuck her all the more.*

The bombshell and her newfound sex friend couldn’t help but lose track of time, minutes passing into hours as Nami experienced first had the depth and level of Kirishima’s sexual skills and experience. Every variety of position snd relentless orgasm strengthening the growing bind of intimacy between them as the tangerine maned minx found herself developing a few favourite positions. From the raw primal bliss of getting plowed doggy style to the closeness of a seated lotus as their bodies glistened with the sheen perspiration. The sheets stained with their juices, the bed trashed which Nami just added to her sex machine’s tab as they kept fucking until the need to rest and sleep finally took them.

There Nami laid atop Kirishima’s sculpted form, purring as she nuzzled him while feeling safe in his strong arms. Basking in the afterglow as his semi-sated cock rested between her thighs, his excess seed flowing from her creampied pussy, dreaming sweet, erotic dreams of further rutting with this man. After such a bout of passion like that, Kirishima hadn’t just made strides in working off his debts. Oh no, Nami felt this fine fellow had earned himself a very special reward, one she was going to offer soon as the chance presented itself…..after another couple of rounds of course.

A few days to weeks after this newfound snd forged erotic friendship, Nami surprised a few select premium fans of hers with a sudden stream. Showing off her newly repaired, renovated and refurbished yacht as a chink of its price ahd come out of the pockets of the crook Kirishima had caught, all the while she performed this tour in another sexy swimsuit. A mischievous catlike grin on her face as she came to her hot tub, showing that she wasn’t alone as the camera showed Kirishima in the hot, steamy bubbling water with none other than Mina and Maya, the bubblegum coloured duo rocking sexy swimwear of their own as they were making out with their boyfriend. Yes indeed, Nami had come to learn about Kirishima’s unique little relationship with the acid maker and the shapeshifter, who were more than eager and happy to bring her into their personal circle of intimacy.

Just when Nami thought her newly made bond with Kirishima couldn’t get any better, the fact that he was such a beast in bed that he couldn’t be just a one woman man sweetened the pot. So of course where she was celebrating her one month anniversary in her new relationship by showing off her shared stud to her fans as she shot a wink and blew a kiss at the camera. Placing her phone close by so it could get a good view of the show as she graced the hot tub with her thicc, sexy self, straddling Kirishima’s lap as she added her own lips and tongue to mark the three way kiss a foursome. Upping the intimacy as the 3 bombshells removed their bikini tops, flashing their big juicy tits to their alpha male as Nami’s stream began making record number views and donation tips, especially from her simps…including s certain grape-head who yet again cursed the chivalrous himbo for his luck with women, the lucky bastard!!

[avionvadion]

Rewatching Diluc scenes and he’s just…

He’s so sweet??? Like they animate him with such a deadpan expression but he’s genuinely one of the nicest characters???

Klee legit burned down half his vineyard chasing butterflies and instead of getting angry or upset with her, he just gifted her some free bottles of grape juice and walked her back to the Knights of Favonius to make sure she arrived safely. But because his face is so deadpan he’s the only one she says isn’t “the best” because he’s “looking so grumpy all the time”.

Like, baby girl, come on, you BURNED DOWN HIS VINEYARD, and HE GAVE YOU GRAPE JUICE.

He even jokes about making Venti pay for all the wine he’s drinking as “only the knights drink for free tonight” before retracting his comment because he doubts Venti could afford the bill. And in the teapot he even makes a new non-alcoholic drink and offers to name it after you, because it was made with you in mind.

Like????? Excuse me??? Sir???

He’s just so misunderstood, like 😭 when he commented that your teapot abode was “not bad” he immediately apologized and said that he didn’t intend to come off insulting. He just meant that it would take some time getting used to staying there. He then apologized again because the conversation was going downhill, proceeded to say that he’d have to do some “introspection”, and that he would also try to find some “conversation topics that align with your interests” so that you two can actually talk together.

My heart can’t, he’s so freaking sweet. And even in his voice lines he generally only ever has good things to say about the other characters (save for his warning to not trust half of what Kaeya says) though heartbreakingly the other characters only ever complain about him because he’s “always frowning” or “is a lot different than how he used to be”.

Like excuse me, his dad was practically murdered by using a delusion, and had his death covered up by the Knights of Favonius. Then he found out his adoptive brother had been lying to him all along, nearly blinded him during their fight, and then went on a revenge mission for about three years to avenge his dad.

He isn’t gonna be as cheerful as he was before! It’s a miracle he’s as sweet as he is now.

He and Kaeya still have a rocky relationship, but they don’t HATE each other. That much is clear. They’ve mended their relationship to the point where they’re able to send letters and team up on missions. And based on recent updates, they genuinely miss each other.

(Kaeya having that Diluc card is both so sad but also kind of hilarious. Dude is legit just drinking away staring at a picture of his brother. Jean, please get this man some therapy I beg of you. He’s the Calvary Captain, he can afford it.)

Anyways, Kaeya harbors too much guilt and keeps pushing Diluc away by making comments he knows he doesn’t approve of, being genuinely insufferable almost as if to punish himself by trying to get Diluc to hate him, and Diluc has a hard time bringing himself to try and mend the rest of that gap without outside forces helping because he attacked Kaeya in a fit of rage and nearly blinded him, thus giving him his own guilt to harbor as well.

(Adalinde is doing the Archons’ work to pull these brothers back together, I swear)

Diluc even has a hideous vase Kaeya gave him as a present out on display in his manor. He could have trashed it. Could have shattered or donated it. But he didn’t. He kept it and decorated the manor with it. Despite everything, he does still care about his brother. He wants to mend things, but doesn’t know how, and Kaeya keeps pushing him away.

…Holy frick, this was not the direction my ramblings was supposed to go to.

AHEM. Anyways…

My point is, Diluc doesn’t come off as a very friendly person, but he’s literally one of the sweetest characters in-game.

Sassy and sweet.

Man’s been through some shit and he’s only, what, 22? He’s gonna look grumpy. His dad is dead, his brother is a brat, he’s got to run an entire wine business on his own with only his butler for help- specifically, the largest wine business in all of Mondstadt, he works part-time as a bartender at his own tavern, and is also trying to take down the Abyss/Fatui during his free time.

He’s probably so tired.

But Diluc ain’t the Uncrowned King of Mondstadt for nothing, y’know?

[awaytobeunshaken]

If You See Me Falling

He tried. After everything that went down, after seeing Orym throw that locket away with the remains of a man they’d all started to think of as a friend. After seeing him walk away and shut down and say with every bit of body language that he just wanted to be alone, whether or not it was truly what he needed. If you see me falling down, pick me up, Orym’s words from a few nights ago rang in their head. So Ashton tried.

And again, he failed. Words were no good here; all the words they could think of felt trite and condescending. So the next morning, after they’d all finished breakfast and Orym was trying to disappear again, Ashton did something that surprised even him, dropping to one knee and putting his arms around Orym. They’d accepted hugs from the halfling before, never given one. It felt nice. At least until Orym flexed his arms and shrugged his shoulders to slip free of Ashton’s grasp, muttering, “Don’t touch me.”

Ashton isn’t hurt, or angry. How could they be, as many times as they’ve expressed the same sentiment. He doesn’t think Orym’s angry, either. Not at him, at least. Maybe just at everything, and why shouldn’t he be? They haven’t seen that kind of anger in Orym before, that directionless rage bubbling up behind his eyes, but they sure as hell know it. Ashton just hopes they find somewhere for him to put it before it eats him up. They’ve long envied Orym’s calm, as much as it’s baffled them, and Ashton hates having to watch Orym, too, be hardened by circumstance.

~

He knows Ashton was just trying to help, and up until ten minutes ago he probably would have accepted it. Welcomed it, even. Now it just feels like a distraction. He’s let himself get so distracted, trying to focus on the biggest targets because the little people were victims, too. Trying to let someone else take the lead so the decision didn’t have to be his.

And a lot of them probably were victims; they’d been lied to, manipulated, their worst traumas used against them. But they had still made a choice. Liliana, Bor’dor, the man with the locket, they’d all decided to make someone pay for how their lives had gone, regardless of who actually wronged them or what the collateral damage might be.

He looks over at Ashton, who has as much or more reason to be angry than anyone on the other side, who doesn’t steal what people can’t afford to lose, who is gentle with people who are vulnerable, who has reached out to Orym time and again, not letting him retreat into himself, much as he might like to. All that rage, but they manage to save it for the people who deserve it. And if he can do it, the rest of them have no excuse. There’s no room for him to be quiet anymore.

~

Jrusar. The Spire by Fire. The place where it all started. Ashton wonders how they made it back there, from wherever they’d been the other day. Another archdruid? Well, assuming everything goes the way it’s supposed to, he supposes they’ll find out soon enough.

Ashton approaches Orym again, this time keeping a comfortable distance. “That thing you said about picking you up when you fall, I’m gonna assume you meant that and weren’t just saying it to get me off your back.”

“I meant it. I don’t need picking up right now.”

“I know you believe that. I know you’ll keep believing it unless someone reminds you that you don’t have to.”

“I don’t know what you can do that you’re not already doing. Because what I need is for this to be over.”

“Yeah, I hear that. But if you think of anything else between now and then, you can let me know. Because I’m gonna keep asking.” If that makes them the asshole that’s fine. It’s a role they’re used to playing.

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