#there’s also a wet bar. we filled it with board games.

[notjanine]

i live here with the love of my life or whatever!!! we’ve been watching starstruck and playing BG3. in the past week, i’ve made chocolate chip cookies with pretzel bits, a seedy whole wheat bread, pesto with my own basil, rosemary garlic flatbreads, banana-bread-spice-cake, lemon garlic chicken soup. it might get cool enough to open the windows this week. we’re hosting a board game night with friends in a couple days. we are talking about maybe adopting a wee beastie. this is good. 💗

[sailorhyunjinz]

What do you think first kiss with skz be like?

aAWH SOME FLUFF T-T OK BUT KEEP IN MIND- fluff is not my strongest pursuit hence why im not a fluff writer hahsah but HEY ITS CUTE!! and anon,,, im so sorry this took such time IM SO SO SORRY AAAAAAAAH- 

also this makes me wanna know my anons first kiss story, AAAH SPILL THEM 

warnings; none?? fluff,,, wow,, rare to say that LMAO- also gn!reader and also suggestiveee??

Bangchan

~gentleman~

will only kiss you if you are REALLY ready for it and if the two of you are dating

doesnt want to rush you into things (even if its just a kiss) because he doesnt know how comfortable you are and such

basically a sweetheart

i imagine its like a cute little date

 night where you guys are stargazing, lying on a blanket on a grassy hill with his arm as a pillow for your head

“chan, look! its a shooting star! make a wish” you giggle to which he smiles, looking at your pretty features that are lit up by the moonlight

“hmm,,, dear star, i wish that y/n would kiss me” he says, laughing directly after but soon being interupted as you attach your plushy lips against his

its probably the most romantic event in your life

him smiling into the kiss as your tongues danced around softly

when you pulled away you laughed, saying; “wishes do really come true, huh?”

poor baby is blushing, his ears red but thankfully for him its too dark for you to see

Minho

the “evil roommate that secretly has feelings for you”

“lee minho i swear im gonna rip your hair off if you touch my plants again”

minho got out of his room, looking at you standing in the living room and rearranging the plants on the windowsill 

“they are all scattered, it’s ugly” he says rudely

“dont call my children ugly” you spit back at him 

there was always a weird tension between you and minho. you were glad to have found a roommate that made a good friend eventhough he was a pain in the ass sometimes

minho liked you,,, and therefore he did everything the opposite of what he felt. if he wanted to compliment you on your outfit he would instead say that you looked “overdressed” or “too much” but you always rolled your eyes towards his snarky comments

you pecked your plants, giving them the love they needed and minho just stood frozen in the doorway, without thinking he spoke

“how come you never do that to me?”

silence

you sneered, placing down the plant you held and streched out your arms

“c’mere if you dare” you said jokingly, not expecting the boy you always thought was so devilish to run into your arms, lips touching and your eyes widening at the unexpected action

the two of you held each other, breathing shaky as wet tongues collided, the sun beaming upon your figures

“m-minho,,, it was a joke!” you laughed, slapping his arm playfully as you pulled away

“but to me it wasn’t” he remarked cockily, licking the inside of his cheek

Changbin

very much giving me like “we dont like each other but we have to work with each other”

like you two are co-workers, working in a boring office and you were assigned to put together this one report and,,, lets say Changbin wasnt your favorite in the office

there was nothing wrong with him,,, its just his vibe that was off putting but sigh,,, work is work

you started compiling information, sitting in a seperate room and drawing graphs on the whiteboard, projecting some other type of research onto the board

“do you think we will need to stay late?” he asks, ruffling his hair in frustration

you sigh and nod, this wasnt going to get done anytime soon.

dawn set on horizon and the others workers packed up their belonging one by one and left until there was only you and changbin left in the now quiet office

you sat next to him, yawning as you typed something as you felt him looking at you

you looked back with a questionable expression, confused when he uttered his words

“do you hate me, y/n?”

“i mean,,, you are a dick sometimes but i dont hate you, at least you do your work”

he shrugged his shoulders, loosening his necktie as he leaned back into the office chair

“a dick, huh? maybe i try to push you away so you wont catch the same feelings i have for you”

you snapped your head towards him. you couldnt lie, he was attractive and at this point you were desperate 

“kiss me then” you said simply causing the boy to immediately cup your cheeks, latching onto your lips as if he’d waited for this moment for forever

more tongue, wants you to feel him ;))

lets just say,,, he made it up to you

Hyunjin

i get this like,,, youthful vibe,,, like the two of you were childhood friends

and,,, eventually you catch feelings for him which you hate because,,, you dont want to ruin this friendship 

every time somebody mistook you for a couple the both of you would make retching noises, mocking each other

“you think my standards are that low?” hyunjin says pointing at you to which you raise your fist

“hwang hyunjin, you’re dead meat”

but,,, he was only in denial, it was his childhood friend afterall

probably happened at one of those night where your mom was working late and you invited hyunjin to keep you company, him bringing kkami as well. 

“dont fucking burn the pizza, hyunjin” you say, petting kkami until the little rascal ran away from your lap

“if you helped it wouldnt be burned” he replies as he comes out with two plates with the pizza burned on the edges

“but if they taste bad you can always taste my lips” he jokes and you look at him with a disgusted facial expression before laughing

“i bet they taste even worse then your mess of a pizza, i would like to see you try to even get me to peck you” you scoff and hyunjin rolls his eyes, sitting next to you on the sofa

“try it then” he taunts but is taken aback when you actually kiss him, your nose accidentally brushing against his as you purse your lips, hyunjin timidly using his tongue to test the waters

he wanted it so bad and he finally got it >:(( he could swear that he heard fireworks going off in his brain

a moment of silence appeared until hyunjin cockily uttered:

“so,,, did they taste better?”

Jisung

the “i met you at a party and made out with you drunk”

he stared at you the entire night, catching glances while you looked away and the music blared in the nightclub that was packed with people.

you ordered a drink at the bar, tapping your fingers on the oak surface where you rested your arms, suddenly somebody bumped into you

turning around you saw jisung and you sighed, thinking his behaviour was starting to get annoying

“oh its you again” you said loud for him to hear as he sat down next to you, having a annoying smirk plastered on his lips

“looks like you are having fun, let me guess,,, you’re trying to get over your ex” jisung says, leaning his elbow against the bar and you glared at him because it was true

you scoffed, avoiding his question and instead sipping on the sour drink you had in your hands, trying to forget everything

he was attractive which only pissed you off even more, as if you hadnt had enough pretentious assholes in your life

the glass slammed against the table as you put it down harshly, gazing into the boys dark brown eyes

“alright, deal. make me forget then since you think you know everything about me” you stated to which jisung raised his eyebrow

the palm of his hand was firmly placed on the bar as he leaned in to kiss you, feeling the bitter liquour hitting his tastebuds as your tongues crashed against each other

it felt,,, freeing. you swung your arms around his neck, wanting him closer to your body

by the way he was kissing you, you could tell that he was there for the same reason as you. a sloppy and heated kiss to fill your thoughts with something other than your ex

safe to say that the kiss progressed ;))))

Felix

aaah cutie boyfriend that is just too shy to even give you a kiss like 3 months into the relationship (OK DONT ATTACK ME NOW, TAKE YOUR TIME, NO RUSH YOU GUYS)

he is shy with pretty much everything, it was only recently he could hold your hand without his heart jumping out of his chest.

it was a simple date night! takeout and games at his place

you layed your head in his lap as you watched him finish up the game that you had given up on a long time ago

he shifted awkwardly in his seat, not used to being so close to such a pretty person before

“ah- fuck! i lost again,,,” he says in defeat, his head rolling backwards before a frustrated sigh escaped his lips

“you did well felix! look how far you got!” you say, pointing towards the score on the screen but not getting his attention. 

you sat up, looking at him for a moment as his eyelashes lightly draped over his closed eyes, cheeks speckled with freckles

you couldnt help yourself, he looked so angelic despite being defeated and so you leaned in, lacing your fingers with his and softly placing your lips against his

he opened his eyes in panic before being swallowed by the fluffy feeling of having your lips to himself, he giggled before stroking your cheek as he tilted his head, almost setting a rhythm to the sweet kiss

felix started laughing shyly, cheeks tinged with red as he hid his face with a pillow

“but you won my kiss!” you said through a smile causing felix to blush even more

Seungmin

its like,,, maybe,,, your third or fourth date??

this one is more chill than the previous ones that were at like some fancy restaurang because hello dandy puppy boy wants class

but this one was like a stroll down the night streets and eating ice cream in the middle of the summer

both of you were casually dressed, holding hands as butterflies bubbled in your stomach from the contact

his hand is all warm and it engulfs yours >:(

you look at all the pretty sights of the night, eventually climbing up to some like high point and looking down at all the lights that blinked

after a good 1 1/2 hours of walking your legs were starting to ache and so you both sat down on the swings of a desolate playground, swinging gently with your legs dangling

“i dont understand how you’re able to,,, even be friends with me,,, or whatever we are,,”

seungmin hummed, looking up into the night sky

“i promise y/n, i will be your,,, friend but,,,”

you looked at him as he said “but”, imagining the worst 

“i dont wanna be friends, i wanna be more than a friend to you”

his eyes twinkled as he stood up and stood infront of you, grabbing your hand

you slowly looked up at him, his figure standing in the way of the moon as the two of you shared a long gaze, his eyes as sweet as honey, dripping with pure adoration

you pulled him closer by the hand and slowly he inched to your lips, the distance between you minimizing as his face tilted to the right, a delicate and sugary kiss landing on your tastebuds from the ice cream from earlier.

your heart skipped a beat, the slightest sound of lips smacking

“i think i love you y/n” he whispered close to your lips after pulling away. 

Jeongin

like,,, uni buddies! 

both being med students meant late study night, usually in school 

there’s papers and diagrams laid out all over the tables and floors along with a bunch of energy drink cans, some scribbles on the whiteboard 

the two of you were friends and met in uni and everyone had always nagged at you for not going after him since he was everything someone ever wanted

you always said that you were friends and that you couldnt imagine being in a relationship with jeongin

but studying with him alone into the deep night felt different, many times you couldnt concentrate when he looked so cute sitting right beside you

being close friends, there was nothing weird about hugging or leaning against each other and so you leaned against his shoulder and yawned as the cozy boy was rewriting some notes. 

“one hour left y/n and then- then we can go hoooome!”

you giggled as you looked at him and he diverted his attention from his papers to you, his lips only mere inches from yours

you didnt know what the fuck you were doing and neither did jeongin, it was late and the both of you were tired from studying for finals

and so your lips drew closer until they clashed, feeling a tension that you’ve never felt with him before

he’s definitely a shy,,, kisser?? not too much tongue since he doesnt know how LMAO so its like soft >:((

didnt know what to do when he pulled away, looking around the room or covering his blushing face with his hands but when you hug him he hugs you back

maybe even coming to terms that he does have feeling for you,,, and so do you~ 

[hollandbaby]

roommates - t.h smut

a/n: um so i haven’t written in a long time pls be kind. this is just a 4.9k one shot based on how i’m feeling, sexually frustrated, but unfortunately I’m not in lockdown with tom so cannot have sex with him. also I’m tipsy. AND feedback is much appreciated

warnings; smut, oral (f receiving), daddy kink, choking, biting, scratching, super long intro

You had lived with your lifetime best friend, Tom, for just over a year now, alongside his best friends Harrison and Tuwaine and his younger brother Harry. There was never a dull moment in the house, even when Tom’s away filming the other boys provide just as much entertainment. You’re used to spending lots of time with the boys, but when it’s announced lockdown was in place, it took a toll on everyone. Tom is unable to work which is a benefit considering he’s allowed to actually rest finally, plus he’s around a lot more which is nice. Harrison is always practicing his juggling which is entertaining until he breaks your favourite lamp. Tuwaine and Harry tends to keep to themselves, mostly playing video games or working from home. But boy was the house becoming messy. 

“Alright, who’s underwear are these and why are they on the living room floor!?” You shout to the house, picking up the pants by the broom you had in your hand.

“Whadda they look like?” Shouts Harry, most likely on his laptop editing something.

“Grey Calvin’s but I know all of you own at least one pair so it’s not very helpful!”

You move to put them in the laundry basket by the washing machine, carrying on with your cleaning by sweeping the kitchen floor. Tom emerges from the bathroom, in just a pair of grey sweats and a towel wrapped around his neck, you try not to let yourself get distracted but it’s hard when you can see a single drop of water make its way down his toned, bronzed torso.

“Sorry, love, I think they may be mine,” he chuckles as he goes to fill the kettle for a cup of tea. He leans against the kitchen island, drying off his hair with his towel.

“What the fuck are they doing in the communal living room?” You ask, laughing as well. Living with boys may be hard sometimes due to the mess and the fact they’re all super dumb, but it’s so endearing and you have good times.

“I dunno, I probably threw them at one of the boys as a joke.” Tom giggles to himself but you roll your eyes.

“Well next time you throw your dirty laundry at someone pick it up after, doofus.” You chuckle, walking past Tom to head to your room for your wash bag before going for a shower. You turn the shower on and start to undress. You found yourself thinking about Tom, and the way he looked after his shower earlier, his wet curly hair all floppy and cute, water droplets falling onto his broad chest and toned abs. You’d never really thought about him sexually before, obviously he’s an attractive man and you’ve been close friends with him since you were kids, he knows you better than anyone, but you’d never realised just how hot he is. Maybe it was because you hadn’t had sex in over a month due to lockdown or maybe it’s because you’ve been able to spend more time with Tom recently, but there’s a familiar feeling in the pit of your stomach that stretches all the way down to your core. You bite your lip, stepping under the hot water, steam filling the bathroom as you try to wash away your sins.

You’re cooking dinner for everyone, Harrison, Harry and Tuwaine playing some game in the living room and Tom is just watching, laughing along with them. Tom looks over the sofa to you, watching your movements for a second before getting up off the sofa and walking to the kitchen.

“Need any help, darlin’?” He asks, as you chop up some vegetables.

“You can chop up some onions with me?” You smile at him, and he gets a feeling in the pit of his stomach. You both continue chopping and cooking the meal, Tom drinking beer and you wine as you both dance around the kitchen and giggle and sing with each other. You call the boys into the dining area, serving up dinner and grabbing drinks for all the boys. As you turn from the fridge to place the beers on the counter, Tom is already stood behind you, making you jump. He grabs your waist to steady you, and you’re grateful you didn’t drop any of the bottles.

“Sorry, love,” he chuckles as your face heats up, a mixture of the fact Tom’s warm hands are still on your waist and you just had a close call to a very messy and classy clean up.

“S’okay, I’m just glad I didn’t drop any of these! The boys would kill me,” you pop open all the bottles, attempting to grab them along with your bottle of wine AND glass.

“Woah there, darling, I’ll grab those for you,” Tom takes three of the bottles from you, letting out a breathy laugh at your disgruntled facial expression, your bottom lip slightly jutted out and hair falling in your face.

“Thank you,” you smile and pick up your wine and glass, following Tom’s lead back to the table.

The boys are all chatting away, dishing up their dinners as you and Tom place their beers down in front of them.

“Thank you so much for cooking, Y/N, we’ll wash up.” Harrison says, smiling at you.

“Will we?” Tuwaine chimes in, looking confused.

“Bro shut up.” Harry says, you roll your eyes but you’re laughing alongside them.

“Well maybe after dinner, and after Haz, Harry and Tuwaine wash up, we can do something together?” You suggest, sipping your wine before munching some more.

“Sounds good. What did you have in mind?” Asks Tom, eager to spend some time with you.

“Well we could all play some card games or a board game?”

And that’s how you end up drunkenly giggling at 1AM over monopoly.

“How the fuck did I get go to jail again?!”

“Unlucky Baz man, looks like you’re in jail again,” you giggle, moving his figurine to the jail space.

“How are you doing so well at this game Y/N? It’s like you’re the monopoly mastermind,” Harrison asks, slurring the M’s slightly.

“I dunno man I used to play a lot with my family, plus it’s a game of chance.”

“Well it’s a fucking stupid game of chance,” Harry chimes in, pouting at the fact he has to miss a go.

“Shut up, dickhead, you love this game,” Tom grabs Harry by his shoulders and puts him in a headlock, ruffling his hair.

“Tom!” Harry exclaims, thrashing around. He kicks the board, knocking all the houses and hotels and cards everywhere.

“Harry!” shouts Harrison, clearly angry at the fact he’s lost his place and cannot for the life of him remember where it was.

“Oh my god you’re all idiots,” you laugh, Tuwaine exclaiming a “hey don’t put me in that category with them!”

You finish the last gulp of your wine before attempting to stand up to grab another bottle. You steady yourself on Tom’s shoulder before heading over to the fridge. You can feel his eyes on you as you pour yourself some more wine, but he quickly looks away when you turn back around. The lads are all laughing together on the floor, sipping beers and being stupid.

“What’re you all laughing at?” You ask, smiling, as you go to join them on the floor, Tom’s hand gently grabbing yours to help you sit.

“Harry’s suggesting we play never have I ever,” Tuwaine laughs.

“It wasn’t just me! Harrison suggested it I just said sure why not!”

“God you’re all a bunch of kids. Alright, are we playing or not?” You ask, getting confident from the booze.

“I know I suggested it but the room is spinning so much right now I think I’m gonna throw up,” Harrison states, hiccuping.

“Wow, good one genius. Alright, let’s get you to bed. Night all,” Tuwaine gets up, picking Haz up in the process and wrapping his arm around his waist, guiding Harrison to his room before making his way to his own.

“Aaaand I’d rather go to bed than stay up for whatever weird shit is gonna happen between you two,” Harry says standing up and chugging the rest of his beer, “peace out.”

“And then there were two,” Tom chuckles, starting to pack away the long forgotten monopoly board. You help him, placing pieces in their respective compartments and giggling with each other.

“So how about that game of never have I ever?” You ask biting your lip. You look at Tom to find he’s already looking at you, cheeks flushed and a curl falling into his face.

“Sure,” he chuckles breathily, “I’ll just grab another beer.” You smile to yourself as you watch Tom walk to the kitchen, biting your lower lip as you realise you shouldn’t be staring at his ass as he walks away. Tom returns to the living room, you’ve moved onto the sofa now, put some music on and your feet up on the coffee table in front of you. He plops down on the sofa next to you and smiles, taking a swig of his beer.

“Alright. Never have I ever pissed my pants from laughing,” Tom chuckles to himself as you slap his chest.

“That was ONE time and it was a TINY amount!” You huff, taking a swig of your drink. You smirk as you pull your legs up onto the sofa, turning to face Tom. “Never have I ever tried to impress a girl by doing a backflip but it ending up awfully badly and I broke my wrist.”

“For fucks sake,” Tom throws his head back and groans, taking a swig of his drink. “She still went on a date with me though, I assume out of pity. Okay, ummm, never have I ever had sex in a park.” He’s smirking this time, knowing full well you definitely had.

“I was 16 and fucking stupid. Guy was a douche anyway. Okay never have I ever, been walked in on.” You laugh at this one. Harrison loved telling the story of the time he walked in on Tom and some girl he’d brought home from a bar.

“For fucks sake, I wish everyone would stop bringing that one up.” He drinks, keeping eye contact with you. “Never have I ever had sex with a roommate,” he licks his lips, watching as you take another sip of your wine. “How’s that even happen?”

“You know the story, Tom, I had to move out because of how awkward it got.” You frown at him, these never have i evers we’re getting too real. “Okay, never have I ever had phone sex.” You watch Tom roll his eyes and take a swig of his beer.

“You mean to tell me you’ve never had phone sex?”

“No, what’s the point when I could just have sex with someone?”

“What if you’re far away from someone you’re dating and can’t go see them? I was working on set you know.”

“I know that! These are to try and get you drunk Mr Holland that’s the aim of the game,” you smile at him, “your turn.”

“Never have I ever,” he trails off, lips pursing as he thinks of one to say, “never have I ever had a threesome.”

You pause for a second, eyebrows furrowed and eyes squinting wondering if he knew you’d had a threesome before or if he was just curious. Either way, you take a sip of your drink.

“Now, this I’ve got to hear,” Tom’s smirking, an eyebrow raised as he waits for the story.

“I thought you knew! Oh, god. So it was my first year of uni, I was fresh out of a bad relationship, exploring my options etc you know. I start having sex with this guy regularly, just causal stuff no feelings involved. One day he comes round, then this girl calls him and he asks if she can come for drinks too. Obviously I say yes because I’m already tipsy and open to anything. She comes round, we end up drinking 3 bottles of wine each and it just, happened.” You look to Tom, after taking a sip of your wine, your cheeks flushed but it’s nothing compared to the look of shock on Tom’s face. He’s aroused at the idea but he won’t let you know that. His mouth is agape, then he licks his lips and smirks.

“Wow who knew you were crazy like that?”

You slap his chest, “shut up! I bet you’ve been up to some crazy stuff. I’m surprised you’ve not had a threesome yet.”

“I’m not the type of man to share, darling.” He raises an eyebrow at you. “Besides, it was a foursome.”

“Ahhh and there it is.” You roll your eyes and smile, finishing off your drink. “Be a darling and grab my bottle from the fridge please, Tommy?” He tuts at your demand, nevertheless standing and going to grab your bottle. He grabs himself another beer too. You smile and thank him as he fills your glass, putting the bottle on the floor in case you need a refill. “I miss sex. That’s the worst part about all this shit.”

“Oh, totally agree. Stupid lockdown.” Tom sighs, sitting back down on the sofa next to you. You place your glass on the coffee table, turning to face Tom fully, resting your arm on the back of the sofa.

“What if we had sex?”

Tom spits his drink out, coughing and spluttering, getting his spat beer all over his white t shirt. “Shit. Um, what?”

“C’mon, we’re both adults with needs, it doesn’t have to be a big deal. Just a one time thing, a favour, to release all the sexual frustrations we’re both clearly experiencing since we don’t have dick or pussy on tap at the moment.” You pick your wine back up, taking a long swig before continuing. “I could just give you a blowie and we can go our separate ways.”

“Y/N, we live together. You said last time you did something like this it didn’t end well.”

“That was only a bad idea with my past roommate because he became obsessed with me after. Tom, we don’t have to do it it was just a suggestion.” You don’t know if it’s because the alcohol has given you a load of confidence or if it’s because you’ve not had sex in a long time but what you do know is that Tom is very attractive, especially when he runs his hand through his floppy curls, his white shirt tightening around his bicep. You lick your lips as your eyes rake up and down his body. You meet his brown eyes, his teeth biting down on his bottom lip.

“Conditions?”

“We can do whatever you want. My only condition is, we need a safe word. Actually, that and we probably shouldn’t tell the others what happened.”

“Agreed. Safe word can be pineapple.”

“Pineapple?” You laugh, leaning closer to Tom. You can smell his cologne, and it’s absolutely divine.

“I dunno. It was the first thing that came to mind.” He leans closer into you as well. “What’re you into?” His eyes flick to your lips and back up to your eyes.

“Hair pulling, biting, scratching, choking, spanking, call me babygirl or a good girl and I’m a goner. You?”

“Same, but call me Tommy or baby. Maybe daddy as well, depends how rough we’re going I guess.”

You put your glass back on the coffee table after finishing your wine, moving to straddle Tom’s lap. “Okay, Tommy, looks like we’re doing this.” You move in, testing the waters, eyes flickering between Tom’s and his lips. You can already feel the heat in your core and the wetness in your panties, your thin shorts barely protecting you from the feeling of Tom’s arousal in his grey sweats. He caves first, crashing his lips against yours and moving them oh so deliciously against your own. Your eyes instantly shut, your hands combing through his hair before gripping onto his brunette curls. Tom lets his empty bottle drop onto the sofa, long forgotten as his own hands move to your hips. His tongue experiments by licking your top lip, asking for entrance which you more than gladly grant him. Your tongue dances against his, your hips subconsciously grinding against his already hard cock. You let out a rough, breathy moan into his mouth, Tom’s hands moving to your ass, feeling the skin that your shorts don’t cover. He pulls back, panting and lips glossy and red.

“Your room or mine?”

“Whichever’s closest.” You kiss him again, letting out a slightly startled noise as he stands, picking you up. You wrap your legs around his waist, hands gripping onto his shoulders whilst his are gripping your ass. You peck his lips, kissing down his neck as he walks you to his room. It’s closest to the living room and nearest to the bathroom so it’s a win win for you. You open Tom’s door for him, he almost drops you when you do but luckily you grip back onto him, accidentally scratching his back. Tom lets out a hiss, but it’s not with pain, more so pleasure at the feeling of your nails digging into him. It makes him wonder how amazing your nails will feel scratching down his back while he’s fucking into you. He throws you on his bed, and you briefly note how clean and tidy his room is considering he’s so chaotic. Tom removes his (slightly damp with beer) shirt and is on top of you in an instant, his lips meeting yours again in a messy kiss, teeth and tongue in the mix. You wrap your legs around his waist, his hips grinding down into your own as your hands rake through his hair, tugging on tufts as you sloppily kiss. He pulls away, his lips moving down to your neck and nipping and sucking there. You let out a moan, your eyes rolling back as Tom’s mouth works wonders on you. Your hips buck up into his and his hand moves from the bed to your body, trailing down your neck and chest to the hem of your vest top, tugging on it as a signal for you to take it off. You listen, moving your arms down to the hem to rip your top off, Tom instantly moving down your body, his lips kissing your chest before his hand moves round to your back and unclasps your bra. He pulls it off you, his mouth making its way to your nipple as his eyes look up into yours. You scrunch your eyebrows in pleasure, biting your bottom lip as you moan lowly. You don’t even notice Tom’s hand trailing down your body until it reaches your clothed pussy, your hips instantly jerking up to meet his hand. A mixture of Tom’s tongue on your nipple and his fingers rubbing your clit through your shorts is giving you a feeling you’ve not felt in a while. Yes you’ve been getting yourself off but there’s something so different about someone else’s touch that feels so fucking amazing.

“Do you know how fucking hot you look in these shorts, baby? I’ve wanted to rip them off you all evening.” Tom moans out, he can feel your wetness through the material.

“Do it, then.” You smirk, but your breath is hoarse and raspy. You let out a gasp as Tom practically rips your shorts from your body, along with your underwear. He wastes no time moving down your body, lips leaving a wet trail of kisses on your scorching skin. Hiking your legs up so your feet are flat on the bed, he kisses your hips, then down your left thigh, as your hands make their way to his hair. Tom looks up into your eyes as he licks closer and closer to your wet pussy, his mouth hovering over you, causing you to grind your hips up in an attempt to meet his tongue. He finally ends the torturous teasing, gently licking his tongue through your folds and to your clit, you throw your head back and let out a soft ‘oh, fuck’. Tom’s fingers make their way up your body, gently teasing your nipple as his tongue massages your clit, your hips meeting his movements as you let out small, breathy moans.

“Fuck, Tom, fingers please,” your voice is broken and still raspy, but Tom makes eye contact with you again and the moan you let out is much louder than before. You throw your head back again, writhing against him.

“What do want, baby girl? Hm? Want my fingers inside you?” His breath is cool against your warm skin, his eyes searching for yours.

“Yes!” You attempt to buck your hips up again but Tom’s hands hold them in place.

“Yes, what?”

“Yes, please, daddy!” Your voice is broken and your attempt to keep quiet is ineffective. Tom moves his right hand from your hip, his tongue returning back to your clit as he slowly pumps a finger into you, curling it up to reach your g spot. He has you writhing beneath him, adding another fingers stretching you out as his tongue laps at your clit, your hands grip his hair as you grind against his mouth, breathy moans escaping your lips. You bite your lip as your eyes roll to the back of your head, you figured Tom would be good in bed but, god, he was so much better than you expected.

“I’m close, Tommy,” he all but growls into your pussy at the nickname, fingers picking up speed as he sucks on your clit gently. One of your hands flies up to your face, biting down on your arm to stop yourself from letting out an extremely loud moan as you cum. Tom slows his movements, helping you ride out your high. He removes his fingers from you, looking into your eyes as he licks them clean. You bite your lip and let out a soft groan at the sight of him, pulling him up to you so you can kiss his lips, allowing your tongue to massage his. You can taste yourself on him, only making you moan into his mouth as you kiss. You pull on his sweats, pushing them down his thighs along w his boxers. Tom pulls them the rest of the way off and you roll onto him, pinning him to the bed with your thighs. Your lips never leaving his in a sloppy, wet, tipsy kiss. You’re overwhelmed by his senses, his hot skin, his sexy scent, his soft curls and the way his teeth occasionally nibble on your bottom lip. You start grinding your hips against Tom’s hard cock, his hands flying to your hips as you do so.

“You’re so fucking wet for me aren’t you, baby girl?” Tom growls against your lips, feeling your wetness on his skin.

You moan against his lips, nodding your head, “do you have a condom?”

“Yeah, bedside table, 2nd drawer down.” You reach over him to the nightstand, retrieving a condom, opening it with your teeth before rolling it onto Tom’s cock. Tom lets out a hiss at the contact, throwing his head back and panting as your hand moves up and down him, before you lift up and slide down onto his cock. His hands instantly grab onto your ass, nails digging into the skin as you find a pace, adjusting to his size. He was bigger than you were expecting but, fuck, did it feel good. You pick up the pace, hips moving up and down as Tom’s hand moves from your ass cheek to your clit, using his middle finger to circle the bundle of nerves. He’s grunting with each move you make, and your head falls back as you continue riding him. He moves his other hand off your ass and brings it back down in a harsh slap, your skin jiggling and a sharp moan escaping your lips. He smirks up at you, your body dropping forward, hands moving to rest by his head as you keep the movements of your hips. He slaps your ass again, massaging the red skin there as you bite your lip, looking into his eyes. You reach your right hand to around his throat, gently squeezing. Something snaps in Tom at that, planting his feet on the bed to get leverage to thrust up into you, fucking you from underneath, he grabs a handful of your hair and fastens the pace of his fingers on your clit.

“Fuck, Tommy!” You moan, trying to keep quiet but it’s hard when he’s fucking you so good, the arch in your back allowing him to go deeper, creating a delicious feeling. “I want you to fuck me from behind.” You’re panting and your voice is quiet but Tom hears you loud and clear.

“Fuck, love, you’re so hot,” he pulls out, rolling you over onto your front, your arms reaching in front of you, chest on the bed as your knees widen and your ass is in the air, Tom slaps your ass as he moves behind you, sliding his hard cock between your fold and collecting your wetness before he thrusts back into you.

“Shit, you’re such a good girl for me, aren’t you?” Another slap on your ass as he fucks into you, hands grabbing your hips for leverage.

“Yes, baby, keep fucking me like that!” You moan into the sheets. Tom reaches forward and grabs a fistful of your hair, pulling your back up against his torso, fucking up into you. His hand slides around to grip your throat as he continues fucking you, his lips leaving sloppy kisses on your neck and cheek. He nibbles on your ear lightly, your eyes rolling to the back of your head in pleasure. Tom’s other hand snakes it’s way around your waist down your body, his middle fingers circling your clit. Your head is resting on his shoulder, your hand coming round to pull on his hair as he continues fucking you, Tom’s grunts and groans right in your ear as his lips caress the skin there.

“So fuckin tight, baby, jesus,” Tom’s breath is hot on your neck leaving goosebumps all over your body as you moan at his words. “I want you to cum for me baby, can you do that?”

“Yes, Tommy, I’m so close,” you groan, but Tom pulls away completely. You’re shocked and disgruntled before you realise he’s throwing you on your back, spreading your thighs and thrusting back into you. You grab his shoulders, nails digging in as Tom fucks you, harder than before. Your moans are muffled by the skin of his shoulder, you bite down on his skin, sucking, most likely leaving a mark but you don’t care, too consumed with the fire in your stomach as your orgasm approaches.

“Rub my clit, please,” you breathe out, one of Tom’s hands moving from your thigh to between your legs, resuming his movements on your clit from before. He fucks you in a rhythm, your nails scratching down his back as he does so, Tom’s hair is falling in his face and tickling yours but you don’t care, he looks so hot like this, sweaty and panting above you. Your toes curl and your pussy clenches around him, his cock pounding into you, and it’s like nothing you’ve felt before.

“I’m gonna cum, Tommy!” You throw your head back, letting out a moan as Tom’s fingers rub your clit faster and he fucks you harder, his lips crashing against yours as you reach your high. Tom follows shortly after, sloppily thrusting into you as he cums in the condom. Tom collapses on top of you, your breathing steadying as you play with his hair. After a minute, he pulls out and discards of the condom, flopping onto the bed beside you, opening his arm to you so you can roll into his side.

“Well, that was ... wow,” you sigh contentedly. Your breathing is starting to slow down and a wave of exhaustion hits you. You rest your head on Tom’s bare chest, one of his fingers curling a piece of your hair around it.

“Oh, god yeah it was, something else.” He chuckles, pressing a light peck to your forehead.

“I should probably go to the bathroom then back to my room.” You sigh, you don’t want to move though. You’re absorbing Tom’s warmth and it feels so good. You roll off of his chest, pulling his t shirt from off the floor and sliding it on. Tom sits up as you go to collect your things, “you could stay in here tonight? I mean, sex isn’t the only thing I miss.” His face is flush and he smiles sheepishly at you. You smile back and bite your lip, leaning back onto the bed to peck his nose before heading off to the bathroom. Tom thinks you’ve gone to bed, sighing in defeat and flopping back against his sheets. You go to clean up, making your way back to Tom’s room but not before grabbing another 2 bottles of beer first. You return to his room, smiling as you hand him a bottle. He laughs at you as he opens his beer, taking a sip before opening his arms to you, inviting you to sit with him on his bed. He’s got his boxers back on, duvet loosely wrapped around his hips, shifting while he moves. You sit back on the bed with him, taking a sip of your own beer. You both laugh and chat until you finish your drinks, lying down again and falling sleep curled up in Tom’s arms, his hand gently massaging your scalp as he places occasional pecks on your forehead. You realise that maybe this won’t be the last time as you drift off into a peaceful sleep.

[insomniamamma]

Clean Dirt: Ezra x f!reader w/Cee

A/n: For writer Wednesday, @autumnleaves1991-blog​. Same reader as Prickle, but this stands alone. Read Prickle if you care about how Artichoke got her nickname. Cee swears like a Puggart Bench dock worker and Ez blames you. Reader is established crew with Ezra and Cee. 

Warnings: language. Flirting. Mention of giant bugs.

          "We have got to air out this pod." Ezra and Cee sit under a heavy tarp stretched from the side of the pod, tethered to surrounding trees. They are engrossed in a game of Ships and Kings. Cee chews on her thumbnail and eyes the board.          "Kevva waits, birdie, make your move."          "Shut up, Ez, I'm thinking."

         They aren't paying you a bit of attention. Syrinx-7 is a gentle world, if hot and humid. The gravity is a fraction of standard, the oxygen levels a bit higher, so you get insect-analogues that would have been at home on prehistoric Terra. Shadows pass over the trees and some primal part of you shrinks from an approaching predator, but when you look up you see translucent flying creatures the size of small air-craft. Filter-feeders, Ezra told you, they just ride the currents with their mouths open and swallow whatever happens to fly in. Translucent flesh laced with wire-thin bones, but that's not why you're here. This is a proper bug hunt. You're after scythe-wings, a night hunting predator. Their ichor has valuable medicinal properties. The trick is to tap 'em and let them go, said Ez, and showed you the tools, a sharp spile that you stab between the third and fourth thoracic plates. Showed you the specialized containers to dump that black blood into, temp controlled with a faint electric current flickering through the inner lining, to mimic the inside of a scythe-wing's body. You got to fool the ichor, said Ezra, trick it to think it's still safe and inside, otherwise it breaks down and all you got is a bunch of worthless black gunk.          Scythe-wings are nocturnal. The three of you set up the light-towers, and assembled the stun sticks, and now there's nothing to to but wait until it gets dark. You'd wandered back into the pod to grab some Bits Bars and the smell had damn near knocked you down. The air of Syrinx-7 is clean and sweet, no scrubbers or suits necessary, and after getting a few good lungfuls of it, the inside of the pod smelled terrible, body odor and mildew and stale food.          "I'm dead serious," You say, "Y'all are just blind to it. Go back in right now and tell me I'm wrong."

         Ezra stands and stretches theatrically. He's long-since ditched his shirt in the heat and you can't help but admire the slide of his back muscles under his skin. He turns his head and smirks at you and you find something really interesting in the dappled undergrowth to look at, heat creeping up you neck. Kevva, this is so unprofessional.          "I suppose we can take a break," says Ezra.          "You only want to take a break because you're losing," says Cee.          "Don't you touch that board, Artichoke," says Ezra.          "Cee doesn't need my help to kick your ass at Ships and Kings."

         You stand in the shade of the tarp and wait as the two of them open the pod and poke their heads in.          "Kevva's sakes, she's right--"          "This pod smells like an old man's balls--"          "Cee!" You splutter laughter.          "Feeling personally attacked there, Ez?" You call. Ezra and Cee practically climb over each other to get out of the pod.          "Oi!" says Ezra, "You are a terrible influence on this young lady. You have taught Cee a myriad of rude expressions, some that even I find objectionable." He's chiding you, but he does it with a teasing smile. Cee rolls her eyes.          "It really does stink in there," she says, "We can crank the panels open, I guess."          "We got anything onboard that passes for laundry detergent?"          "Got some degreaser I think," says Cee.          "That'll work."

         Ezra usually sets down near a body of water. It's a lot easier to fill the pod's tanks than to rely on the ‘cyclers. Also there is the comforting knowledge that, at least for a few cycles, you're not drinking your own recycled piss. Clean water in the fringe is a luxury, and this world has clean water aplenty, cut through with rivers and rushing streams like the one you've landed next to. If not for the low grav this would be prime real estate. Turns out human reproduction only works at a certain gravity. Syrinx-7 is just below that threshold. Eventually, this will be some vacationer's paradise. Trees knocked down to make way for gleaming hotel blocks, but there will never be a permanent human settlement here. A pretty place for people who can afford passage on the jump-yachts.

         You've disconnected the intake hose from the pod and use it to fill a cargo tub. The water mixed with the industrial cleaner foams. Not ideal, but it should do the job.  The pod resembles a flower in bloom, the feather-panels all hand-cranked open. If the 'chutes fail, the panels pop, a last ditch effort to slow a falling pod.          "Grab me another tub, would you?" You ask, and Ezra ducks back under the shadow of the tarp. Cee shoves a tub full of dirty laundry towards you.          "This is everything I could find," says Cee, "What about the suits?" You shake your head. Cleaning an exo-suit is a bit more than you can manage dirtside.          "Take apart what you can and hang 'em on the line," you say, "We can air them out at least."          "How long are you idiots going to dance around each other?" Cee stands with her hands planted on her hips.          "I don't kn-"          "Between the pod and the tent we share a living space the size of a cargo can," says Cee. You hunker beside he tub, scrubbing fabric against itself, hoping the degreaser will at least take some of the smell out. Fuel-to-weight limits dictate how much you can bring down with you. Extra changes of clothes are usually one of the first things to be sacrificed.          "And?"          "Come on," says Cee, "I've seen how you look at each other. It's pitiful. You get all bashful and he makes those Big Dumb Eyes at you. Just give me some warning when you two dumbasses finally decide to hook up. I'll make sure to turn my music up extra loud."          "Kevva wept." you mutter, but Cee is already headed back beneath the tarp. Ezra comes out of the shade, dragging an empty cargo tub. He plops down beside you on the stream bank.          "Can I help?" That question is loaded. When you first joined Ezra and Cee as crew he was still getting used to doing everything left-handed. The few times you'd offered help, he'd lashed out at you and then shame-facedly apologized to you later. It's not you, he'd said, I let my frustrations spill over. I should have been more clear with you initially. I have to relearn these things on my own. Please do not offer help. If I need something from you, I will ask. We clear? Clear. You'd said.          "Sure," you say, "I'll start handing you stuff. You rinse it out in the stream and dump it in the tub you just brought. Clear?"          "Clear," says Ezra, and the two of you work in companionable silence for a beat, the sound of the stream babbling away, and an absent snatch of music you hum, words unremembered, something Cee was listening to. You pass clothes off to Ezra, socks and t-shirts and PUZU gear that Cee favors, boxers with frayed elastic and sagging seats.          "We make enough Ez," you say, "You can get yourself some undies without holes in em."          "Same goes for you, Artichoke, I could read a newspaper through some of the sleep-shirts you wear. Not that I'm complaining, mind." You feel your neck and ears getting hot. Kevva. He's been looking at you the same way you've been looking at him.          "At least we'll have something clean to change into once we wash off the bug-guts," you say.            "Things go right and there won't be any splatter," he says.          "Yeah, and since when do things go right?" Ezra laughs, eyes crinkled shut, his dimple showing. He laughs more now than when you first joined up.          "You got me there," he says, "This all of it?"          "Yeah." He stands and offers his hand, helps you to your feet, but then he doesn't let go, just holds your hand in his, the calloused pad of his thumb brushing over the tender skin on the back of your hand.          "You're good to us," he says, "Me and Cee would be living like a couple of channel rats caught in a conduit if not for you." You're not sure what to say, you don't have words for what you're feeling. How do you tell Ezra that after leaving Falnost with the dust still clinging to your heels, after kicking around the ass-end of the Great Arm, you found a home with this tiny crew? You don't know what to say so you squeeze his fingers in yours.          "Come on," you say, "You get one end and I get the other. Cee's got the line hung."

         The two of you wrestle the tub of wet clothing over to a stretch of rope that Cee's  tied between a pair of trees. Your exo-suits hang draped over the rope, for all the good it will do. Those will stink until you can get them professionally cleaned on station. There's nothing in the pod that can serve as clothes-pins so you and Ezra drape your wet clothes over the line.          "What if it falls off?" Asks Cee, arms crossed over her chest.          "What if it does?" You ask, "At least it'll be clean dirt."

Tags: @honestly-shite​

[smol-and-grumpy]

EUPHORIA - Chapter 24

Pairing: Dean Winchester x Reader

Summary: He’s Dean Winchester, owner of a shady night club. She’s a journalist who has been asked to write an article to expose the indecency and debauchery that’s going on behind closed doors. But he’s also Dean Winchester, the boy who sat next to her in class. The boy who was too cocky for his own good.

Chapter Warning: NSFW, flangst

WC: 2824

A/N: This chapter fills my ‘voice kink’ square for @spnkinkbingo.

Beta’d by @deanwanddamons <3

This series is complete on Patreon!

Series Masterlist ~ SPN Masterlist

Become a Patron ~ Buy me a coffee

He’s pissed and overly grumpy. It’s too fucking early to be dealing with bullshit. But he’s also grumpy because he had to see Y/N off.

Walking around the corner, Cas’ notices him and nods. 

“Again?” Dean asks, sees them washing down the red paint. It looks bloody and it smells awful. It almost made him nauseous.

“Yeah,” Cas sighs, “It’s nothing I couldn’t deal with, so I didn’t feel the need to call you.”

“That’s okay,” Dean crosses his arms over his chest, watches the paint come off the walls before he turns to Cas, “Security footage?”

“We got it,” Cas says, but he doesn’t look happy about it so Dean already knows that it’s probably not even worth mentioning, “The guy wore a Vendetta mask and was dressed in black.”

“Great,” Dean breathes out, his hand goes up to rub at his forehead. There’s a puddle of paint running down the pavement towards him, and he takes a step to the side.

It’s moments like these that Dean wants to give up completely. That he wants to just sell the whole fucking thing and go do something else, being a fucking accountant for the firm Sam’s working in or just something that’s less stressful. Somewhere where he has to deal with less hate, maybe. Less jealousy. 

He places a hand on Cas’ shoulder, “You go home and get some shut eye. I’ll see you for the briefing later,” 

“‘K,” Cas answers and turns to walk away. Looking back, he calls out to Dean, “Balth is waiting in your office!”

Dean groans and rolls his eyes at that.

Apparently, he can’t catch a fucking break around here.

*

Dean walks into his office and sees Balthazar sitting on the couch. The man’s busy working on his laptop. A scent of coffee lingers in the air. He must have brought a cup with him because Dean doesn’t have a coffee machine in his office. What he has, though, is a fucking bar and he wonders if it would be too soon to pour himself a couple of fingers? It’s probably five o’clock somewhere , right? 

Even though his mouth waters at the thought of the burning liquid filling his throat and clouding his head, Dean abandons the thought quite quickly. She doesn’t like him to drink. It has a lot to do with how she grew up and Dean respects that, has toned it down since Y/N came back into his life, and he wants to keep that up.

“Balth,” Dean greets the man and walks over to his desk, sits down with a loud grunt, “What can I do for you?”

“How’s your hand?”

“Good.” Dean nods and holds it up, takes a look at it himself.

It’s bandaged. Y/N was telling him that he should let her do it or she’ll get angry at him. He smirks at the memory. He would have loved to say that she could get mad all she wants, because he likes how cute she looks when she’s mad, but he thinks that would have been a bad move on his part, so he just held still while she sat on his lap and bandaged his hand. The lap sitting was a deal he negotiated because he said that he wouldn’t let her if she wouldn’t sit on his lap. She rolled her eyes but sat down and it’s crazy how his lap was made for her to sit on.

Balthazar clears his throat before he closes his laptop, and Dean is catapulted back to reality. Back to an annoying work day. He thinks maybe he should take a break, ask her if she’s game to go on a road trip. Just the two of them, driving where the road takes them with no clear destination. Dean doesn’t think he needs one with her.

“I’ve stayed with Cole after you left.” Balthazar says while he places his laptop back into its bag.

“And?” Dean frowns.

“He won’t press charges,”

Dean snorts, “Yeah, because we have the upper hand.”

It’s no surprise. Dean knew that he wouldn’t. If he would, he’d see his ass in jail and Dean doubts that Cole would survive a day in there. All Dean wanted was to make a statement and he thinks that he was pretty clear about what the statement entailed.

“Still, you should be more careful with breaking bones.” Balthazar gets up from the couch and walks over to the chair across from Dean. He doesn’t sit down, though, only braces his hands on it, leaning in a little.

“He was touching what’s fucking mine, Balth. What do you want me to do?” Dean shouts out and immediately regrets his outburst because it hurt his own ears. He pinches the bridge of his nose. It’s too fucking early. 

When Dean calms down a little, he asks, “So, you had your eyes on him? He wasn’t anywhere near the club?”

“Nope, I drove him to the ER and he underwent surgery to correct his fucking jaw that you broke. He’ll stay there for the next two days, at least.”

“Good,” Dean nods. It’s not exactly good when it comes to the club, though, because Cole’s out of the picture, “Can you get more people on board? I want someone watching the club after closing. It’s a tiny window of time, three, maybe four hours.”

Balthazar nods, “I can do that.”

*

After Balthazar left, Dean decided to start up his computer since he hasn’t checked his emails for a couple of days now. He deliberately doesn’t have his work emails on his phone. It’s his private property and he made it clear from the beginning that he’s separating work and private life.

Dean clicks through the emails. There are some new member sign ups that he needs to go through. Some harmless threats which he usually bins right away. But then there are some mails that are more worrying as well.

He clicks on the first one with the title I KNOW WHAT YOU DID LAST NIGHT . The email opens up to pictures of the altercation in front of Y/N’s office building. Dean can see that it was shot from across the street. Maybe from a parked car. He immediately forwards the pictures to Balthazar. 

There are more emails. Without pictures though, just words. Hurtful ones. 

  I WILL TAKE YOU AND YOUR CLUB DOWN

  YOU ARE A FUCKING DISGUSTING HUMAN BEING

  SHAME ON YOU

  YOUR CLUB WILL BE CLOSED. MARK MY WORDS

  It’s really nothing new. He gets those threats quite a lot and he always makes sure to block the sender but they keep making new email accounts and so he’ll keep deleting and blocking them. Dean can’t win in this, but neither can they, so at least there’s that.

*

Later in the day, while Dean’s briefing his employees, his phone vibrates in his pocket. He fishes it out, thinks it’s Balthazar calling him about new developments. The man had called earlier already, only to suggest for Dean to get a fucking bodyguard but Dean really doesn’t know about that. He just thinks it’s a waste of money. Only when Balth mentioned that Y/N’s safety might be in danger too, does Dean at least agree to consider it.

Dean stops his speech to look at the caller ID, has to suppress his smirk while he holds up his index finger, “I gotta take this one, Cas?” 

“Yeah,” The other man jumps in, grins himself because he knows, and Dean actually wants to wipe that smile from Cas’ face but he gotta hurry if he wants to take it before she hangs up on him.

Dean turns around, picks it up, smiles like an idiot because apparently, he lost the ability to control his fucking face, “Hey,” Dean walks up the stairs and disappears into the VIP room for some privacy.

“I’m sorry, am I interrupting? You must be busy.” 

It sounds like she’s pouting, Dean bites back a chuckle, “No, it’s okay, you never interrupt. How’s the workshop going?”

He tries to sound cheerful, doesn’t want to tell her about the things that happened yet. There’s no need for her to worry, really. 

“Ugh, boring,” Y/N sighs, and adds, “I have a short break before I have to go for the mandatory dinner.”

Dean flips his wrist, sees that it’s past 5pm. He grins, “You wanna spice things up at the dinner?”

“Dean,”

“What?” He chuckles.

“Well,” Her voice is almost whiny as she considers his words, “Yeah?”

“That’s my girl,” Dean smiles, “Jesus, I’m getting all excited myself.”

Cas appears in the room and Dean nods at him, “Baby, I gotta go, I need to finish something here,”

“Okay,” It sounds like she’s pouting and god, Dean feels bad for making her feel like he doesn’t have time for her or that he doesn’t care when all he’s doing is to make fucking time. But he guesses she’ll understand once they see each other. 

“Wear it and let me know when you’re going to dinner, alright?”

“Yeah,” She sighs, “Miss you.” 

Dean sighs, closes his eyes briefly, his heart flutters at those words. He smiles at the feeling, “I miss you, too.”

Y/N runs up to her room right after dinner, keys in her hand and leans back against the closed door as soon as she’s inside. She’s dripping wet from that vibe but she didn’t come yet. She doesn’t know how Dean does it but he always managed to stop when she’s about to come, making her whine out audibly once, and when Charlie, her friend from college who sat next to her asked what was wrong, she just said that she liked the food very much. 

God, it was so embarrassing!

She thinks about calling him but he’s probably busy working as it’s already past 10pm and the club is at its peak right about now. 

Taking off her shoes, she walks to the bathroom to clean her face and she brushes her teeth,  walking out into the bedroom shortly after. She quickly gets out of her dress and slips out of her panties that are completely soaked. 

The device is still inside of her and clear enough, it starts to buzz again, making her shriek out. She swears if he won’t let her come again—

—her phone rings.

Letting herself fall onto the bed, still in only her bra and nothing else — except for the vibrator in her pussy — she grabs at her clutch that she left there before she walked to the bathroom. 

  Dean.

  The vibrator still buzzes lightly inside of her and she picks up, has to gnaw on her bottom lip to suppress the moan.

“You are the worst!” It blurts out of her as soon as she swipes her thumb across the screen.

“Wait, what?” He’s laughing loudly.

“Yeah,” She pouts and moves up the bed, rests her back against the headboard while she spreads her legs and enjoys the buzzing between her thighs, “You turn me on and then you stop, and I was so close to coming.”

“Awe, poor baby,” Dean says in his mumbling voice and it sounds so fucking sexy, “Are you still turned on?”

“Yeah,” She mutters under her breath, “Please, you have to let me come.” 

“I don’t know,” He chuckles, “Have you been good, Y/N?”

Oh my god , he’s pulling that card, isn’t he? 

“I have. Please?” She nods and whines, teeth sinking into her bottom lip when she feels the buzzing getting stronger, moaning out shamelessly. 

“Christ, you sound so fucking sexy,” 

She can hear him growl on the other end. 

“No, you do,” There’s another increase of vibration and god, it makes her arch her back, as a shrieking sound rolls off her tongue. 

“I do? I don’t think so, sweetheart. I’m getting hard just hearing you moan.”

“It— ah— it’s your v—voice, Dean.”

“My voice? What’s with my voice, baby?” 

And it’s like he’s taunting her because it rolls deep, smooth like fucking honey and it feels like he’s wrapping her up in the warm sound. He increases the vibrations, and she didn’t know it could go further up but it does. One of her hands goes to her tit, kneads at it while she has a tight grip around her phone with the other. 

“Ah— it’s.. Fuck— it’s so deep and gravelly and oh god— it’s sexy,” 

“Yeah?” He chuckles, “Bet you’re so wet, ain’tcha, baby? You always are so wet for me. It’s the fucking best thing. Especially when you gush and come around my cock, Jesus—”

His breathing is ragged, he’s turned on too. 

Good , she thinks. At least she’s not the only one. 

“My panties were soaked. I took them off and now I’m on my bed in only my bra,” She manages to say, tongue darts out to wet her lips, “Wish you were here.” 

“I wish I was there too. Wish I could kiss you. I’d be right between your thighs right now, eating you out like you’re the sweetest thing, because you fucking are,” It comes out a little strained, “Does me telling you these thing turn you on, huh?”

“Yeah,” She chokes out a moan, “You could read me the goddamn phone book and it would turn me on, Dean.”

“Christ, I’m just imagining you right now, all spread out and wet,” There’s a low growl before he speaks again, “Can you do me a favor, huh?”

“Uh-huh,” 

“Use your words, sweetheart,” His voice is more stern. Doesn’t make it less sexy, though.

“Yes,” 

“Good girl,” 

God the praise . Y/N has to press her thighs together, already so fucking close. 

Dean goes on, “Take off your bra for me, baby. Take your thumb and forefinger, give them a firm tug for me, bet your nipples are sensitive, huh? I wanna hear you.”

She sits up to unclasp her bra before she throws it carelessly into the room. Leaning back again, her right hand goes to her left nipple, tugs hard and moans out in pained pleasure. 

“Good girl,” He coos, “Such a fucking good girl,” 

The vibration increases again and she thinks that’s the maximum it can go. Hopes it is, because she’s right there, dancing dangerously on the edge.

“Dean, please, I’m—”

“—I got you, baby,” He breathes out a soft chuckle, “Come, you can come, now. Come for me, okay? I wanna hear you come for me.” His whispering low, and the words paired with his voice, plus the added buzzing in her cunt was enough to tip her over.

Oh god. His voice is really out of his world. She comes with a squeal. His name rolls off her tongue as she squeezes her eyes shut and her legs start to tremble. Her hips buck up and she doubles over and has to roll herself into a fetal position on the bed.

There’s a ringing in her ear from the orgasm and she feels the vibration getting softer until it’s completely gone. Dean’s voice is faint in her ear through the phone.

Good girl. My fucking good girl.

She swallows hard, her eyes are still closed. When Y/N comes back to her senses, she starts to giggle and then she hears it. The knock at her door. 

“What’s so funny?” Dean asks as she sits up straight, startled from the knocking.

“Oh my god, someone just knocked at my door.” She says, her heart’s still pounding fast.

“Go on, open it.” 

“No, who would knock at this time of night? I’m sure they just have the wrong room.” She doesn’t know if she’s trying to talk to him or talk herself out of her anxiety of the realization that someone came knocking at her door late at night.

“Maybe it’s room service?” 

“Dean, I just came from dinner, I didn’t order anything!”

“Jesus Christ, I didn’t think it would be this hard!” Dean growls and she might be hearing things because she hears the deep growl outside of her door? He sighs then, “Baby, I really think you should open up.”

“Oh my god, you didn’t... Dean, no.” She scrambles off the bed, and somehow she doesn’t even care if she’s fucking naked. 

“Dean, yes!” He chuckles lightly, “Come on, I’m standing in the hallway with a visible boner and I think if someone sees it, they’ll call the cops.”

She hangs up and drops the phone onto the bed as she makes her way to the door, opens it up wide to see Dean smiling at her.

Chapter 25

Please share your thoughts with me, I’d love to hear your feedback.

[anotherspnfanfic]

And If I Win

Pairing: Dean x reader (third person POV)

Word count: 3800

Warnings: none

Square filled: Free Space for @spndeanbingo, P.S. I Love You quote in bold below for @spnquotebingo

A/N: Written for SPN Quote Bingo and Dean Bingo. I had a lot of fun writing this one and I hope you enjoy!

Masterlist

~

Dean pulled into the parking lot of the small dive bar. He put Baby in park and quickly got out. He was halfway across the parking lot when he hollered. “Hurry up, Sam!”

Sam caught up to him as he opened the heavy, wooden door. “A few beers, a couple games of pool, and we’re leaving. We should be researching, Dean.”

“You really know how to have fun, Sammy.” Dean rolled his eyes. “We have been researching for weeks. Maybe a night off will help. Fresh eyes or whatever.”

“This job was the time off.” Sam scoffed and walked over to an empty table.

Dean went straight to the bar and ordered two beers. He glanced around the room as he waited. He noticed a group of frat guys gathered around the pool tables; easy marks, he thought. He also spotted a couple of older gentlemen at the end of the bar, likely regulars you could find there on any given night. Finally, he noticed the woman sitting alone in a dark, corner booth.

She looked deep in thought as she twirled her straw around in her drink. He couldn’t make out much more with her long hair concealing most of her face.

“That’ll be 4.50,” the bartender stated, breaking Dean from his thoughts.

He tossed cash on the bar top as he grabbed the bottles. He glanced toward her once more as he walked over and sat across from his brother.

~

She was halfway through her second drink when the door swung open and two tall, handsome, flannel-wearing guys walked in. Sam and Dean Winchester, she was pretty sure. She’d spotted them—or rather their unmistakable Impala—outside her motel two days earlier. Therefore, that had to be them. It was the middle of nowhere; how many guys could fit the description?

She had rolled into town in search of her sixth or seventh hunt in a row; she had lost count. She’d planned for this to be the last one before she was going to take a break. That is, until she'd spotted the Winchesters. She took their presence as a sign to start her break early. She had heard enough stories to know she didn’t want to get in their way.

She would have left town immediately if she hadn’t already paid for the motel for the week. So now she was pondering where to go next in the only bar for miles around. She scrolled through a few news articles on her phone while she nursed her drink. When the bartender delivered a refill, she moved on to people-watching. She watched the old guys at the bar chat and laugh. They were having such a good time that she almost wanted to join them. As the drinks flowed freely, the frat guys at the pool tables got progressively worse at sinking shots.

The Winchesters shared the occasional hushed conversation. The shorter-haired of them polished off two beers and two shots while the other slowly nursed a single bottle. Eventually, she saw the short-haired one stand from the table. He ran his hand through his hair to mess it up a bit before stumbling slightly on his way to the pool tables. He waved a couple twenties as a greeting.

She was careful not to stare as she watched him swindle the clueless frat guys. She watched the way he glanced at his opponent before intentionally missing a shot. The way he quickly lured them into a sense of superiority. Then, she watched as he upped the bet beyond the cash they had on hand and promptly destroyed them. He was good.

She stood from her table as the guys started throwing a fit. She tossed her hair up into a messy bun as she heard, “You hustled us, asshole.”

“It was just a lucky game. I swear.”

The taller, longer-haired brother walked over to the table. He looked annoyed that he might be stepping into a fight. “Seriously, Dean?”

“I’ll play,” she stated, effectively distracting everyone from the impending brawl. She wandered over to the cue rack on the wall. She pulled one out before turning. “If I win, you give the kid back his watch and you buy me a drink.”

“I’ll buy you a drink,” one of the frat guys offered.

She raised an eyebrow. “Uh, no. Nice try, though.”

The Winchester brother she now knew to be Dean stared at her intensely for a few seconds. He handed the watch over to its rightful owner with an order to get lost. He watched as they all moved over to an empty table across the bar. He raised his chin as if he was sizing her up. “And if I win?”

“You won’t.” She smiled and set to racking the balls. She slid the cue ball into place moments later. She winked at Dean before she broke, pocketing three balls.

Less than five minutes later, she had cleared the table of solids and was announcing, “Eight ball, side pocket.” She couldn’t help but laugh at the looks on both of the Winchester brothers’ faces after she’d won.

“Holy crap. Where’d you learn how to play?” Dean asked.

“I spend a lot of time in back-woods dive bars. I’ll take a whiskey on the rocks, and not the cheap crap.”

Dean smiled. “Yes, ma’am.” He went over to the bar to get drinks. He came back a minute later and handed her a lowball glass. “Will you join us? I’m Dean, by the way. This is Sam.”

She introduced herself as they slid into the same booth the brothers had claimed when they arrived. She took a sip of the whiskey and hummed in satisfaction. “Damn, that’s smooth.”

“Johnny Walker Blue. Bet is a bet and you said no cheap stuff.” Dean shrugged. “Honestly, I am a little shocked this place stocks it.”

She smiled at him. “I’m certainly not gonna complain.”

“So, you said you spend a lot of time in places like this. You do a lot of traveling?” Dean asked.

She nodded, sipping her drink. “Quite a bit, yeah.”

He narrowed his eyes slightly as if he was waiting for more. “For work or for fun?”

“I’m something of a drifter. I get bored if I spend too long in one place.” She had no intention of letting on that she knew who they were or that she was also a hunter. “What about you guys?”

“We travel a lot for work,” Dean answered.

She nodded and took another sip of her whiskey. “Sounds interesting.”

They exchanged looks before shifting their focus back to her like they were expecting her to say something else. “That’s it?” Dean questioned. “You’re not going to ask fifteen more questions about what kind of work we do?”

She shook her head. “Work that requires a lot of travel and has you in this hole-in-the-wall bar… I’m pretty sure I don’t want to know.”

“You’re probably not wrong,” Dean said before sipping his drink.

“Well, it was nice meeting you,” Sam told her before giving his brother a smirk. “But, I think I am going to head back to the motel.”

Dean stood to let Sam out and handed over the car keys. He watched as Sam vanished through the same door they’d entered.

Before he could slide back into the booth, she stood. “Wanna play a game of darts? No bets, just for fun.”

He smiled. “You’re on.” He grabbed his whiskey off the table and wandered to a high-top near the dart boards. After setting his drink down, he retrieved the darts from the board and handed one to her.

She set her drink beside his before she tossed the dart and hit the outside circle of the bullseye. She flashed him a cocky smile as she took another sip of her whiskey.

“Not bad.” He moved to the line and tossed his own dart at the board. It hit the bullseye dead center. “But not good enough.” He winked.

“Lucky shot!” she yelled as he moved to grab the darts again.

“Sore loser?” He teased. He promptly threw all three darts, landing them all in the triple twenty section.

She went to pull them off the board and matched his shots keeping them at a tied score. “You didn’t win anything yet. Maybe I wanted to let you go first.”

“Alright, this is too easy.” Dean flashed her a mischievous smirk. “We need shots.” He headed to the bar and returned moments later with a tray. He handed her one before raising his own to cheers. He tossed it back and winced slightly at the burn.

As he handed her another shot, she asked, “Are you trying to get me drunk?” He shrugged. She rolled her eyes and raised the glass, clinking it against his.

He grabbed the darts to take his next turn. He got 95 points and then watched her take her turn. She only scored 38 points and pouted as she turned to face him. “Clearly, you can hold your liquor better than me.”

He chuckled. “You think so?” He grabbed one of the two remaining shots and downed it. “Happy?”

“Maybe.” She nodded towards the board for him to go again. He moved to the line. As he raised his arm to throw, she leaned in close behind him and whispered in his ear, “Don’t miss.”

The dart landed in the triple 20 spot. He smiled as he turned and locked eyes with her. She was only a few inches away. “Maybe you are just my good luck charm.”

She nodded subtly as her gaze dropped momentarily down to his mouth when his tongue peeked out to wet his lip. Next thing she knew, his palm was on her cheek as his fingers curled gently at the back of her neck urging her closer. He leaned in, resting his forehead against hers. She wrapped her arms around his broad shoulders as she rose to her tiptoes and captured his lips in a soft, almost-shy kiss.

In perfect sync, their lips moved together. His other hand came up to rest on the small of her back and he gently pulled her flush against him. She could feel his body heat radiating through the t-shirt that he had under his flannel. Neither knew how long they stayed like that before he pulled away. His eyes swept over her face before he pressed one more quick kiss to her lips. It took her a moment to catch her breath.

“Wow,” she mumbled, the alcohol in her system letting the comment slip. She locked eyes with him again, finally noticing how intensely green they were.

He chuckled and she felt it rumble through his chest. “Wow, yourself. Any chance you want to get out of here?”

“I, uh, don’t do one-night stands,” she forced out, as if she was fighting herself to say so. She glanced down, not wanting to see the disappointment on his face. “It’s my biggest rule.”

His index finger found her chin, forcing her to look back up at him. He smiled softly. “That’s not a bad rule to live by. How about we finish this game and talk a little more?”

She smiled and nodded. He placed a chaste kiss on her forehead as he pulled away to finish his turn. He was so kind and caring that she was truly tempted to break her rule for him.

He scored another 35 points and she suspected he was going easy on her. He retrieved the darts and handed them over. She took a sip of her whiskey, holding the liquid in her mouth for a second before swallowing. “How about if I can make two bullseyes, I win?”

He squinted his eyes at her as he considered it. “You think you can?” he teased.

She tossed one dart, landing it dead center. “Maybe. Winning is pretty good motivation.”

“Well, then, let’s see it.” He moved to stand close behind her, as she had done to him, but stayed silent. She took an extra moment to aim before throwing. The dart landed high, missing the bullseye by less than half an inch.

“Damn it!” she yelled, catching the attention of everyone in the bar.

Dean tossed his head back as he laughed. She crossed her arms as she tried to hold her glare. He looked back at her just long enough to catch the look and burst into another round of laughter. After another second, she cracked and let out a giggle. 

“I’m sorry,” he started. “You were just so sure you had me beat.”

She punched him lightly on the shoulder. “I would have if you hadn’t given me shots.”

He smiled softly and pulled her closer. He kissed her once more. As he pulled away, he whispered, “Guess we’ll never know.”

She smiled. “What were we talking about?” she asked.

“I think you were saying that you wanted to go sit at the bar and have another round,” he said, a hopeful look in his eyes.

She reached over to grab her drink and finished it off. “Oh, yeah, that’s right. That is a good idea that I had.” He kept his hand on the small of her back as they moved over to the bar top. The bartender approached as they sat on a pair of stools. “Can I get a beer?”

Dean raised two fingers, indicating he would have the same, and set a twenty on the bar. Two bottles were placed in front of them a moment later, followed by his change.

“I think that round was my turn to buy. You did win the darts after all.” She reached to pull out her wallet before Dean grabbed her hand to stop her.

“You said no bets on that game. So you don’t owe me anything. I just wanted to buy a pretty girl a drink.” He winked.

She rolled her eyes and glanced around the mostly empty bar. “Oh, so where is this ‘pretty girl’ you are buying a drink for?”

“She should be here any minute; you mind scooting down a few?” Dean teased. “I wouldn’t want to give her the wrong impression.”

She scooted her stool a few inches closer to him and leaned her head over into his shoulder for just a moment. “How is this?” She smirked as she sat up.

“Perfect.” He smiled as he looked over at her. “How much longer are you planning to be in town?”

She took a drink before answering, “I’m headed out in the morning. I’m thinking I might go and find somewhere to camp for a little while.”

He cringed, almost imperceptibly. “Camping? Like, in a tent out in the middle of the woods?”

“That’s usually what camping involves, yes. Sometimes just sleeping out under the stars is nice, too.” She laughed as a look of complete disgust bloomed across his features. “I take it you are not a fan?”

“I hate camping. Do you know how dangerous it is? How many things might want to try and eat you?” Dean asked.

She played dumb, “You mean like birds, squirrels, and deer?”

“No.” He hesitated before continuing. “More like, uh, bears or wolves.”

She raised an eyebrow. “I have been camping most of my life. I have never had a run-in with any bears or wolves. I have seen a few from a distance, but none that tried to eat me.”

“I guess you’re just lucky then.” He went on to tell a couple stories of the “dangerous wildlife” he had encountered in the past. She was enthralled, trying to decipher what kind of monsters he was talking about. He was being vague enough that she wasn’t quite sure she could guess correctly.

She tried not to laugh when he stumbled over the story as he carefully omitted details. She sipped her beer and listened intently as he finished with a contented smile as he mentioned the people he had saved.

“So, basically, you’re like some kind of real-life Batman?” she joked, despite knowing it was fairly accurate, considering she knew he and his brother had saved the world at least once.

He laughed. “No. I’m not a billionaire.”

She hit the bar with a fist. “Damn. I was so sure you were.”

“Remind me not to bet on your sure things,” he joked.

She finished her beer and glanced toward the door. “This has been so much fun, but I should probably head back to the motel. I really am heading out early tomorrow.”

Dean would have sworn she sounded disappointed. He certainly was. He grabbed her hand gently as he asked, “Stay? Have one last drink, please?”

She nodded, unable to bring herself to say no. “Just one.”

Dean nodded at the bartender to bring them another round. They continued to talk and laugh, and sooner than either would have liked, their drinks were gone.

“Would you let me walk with you?” he asked.

“I appreciate the offer, but if I let you walk with me, I will definitely break my no-one-night-stands rule.” She leaned over and pressed one last kiss to his cheek as she stood.

“I bet we will meet again.” Dean winked.

She smiled as she looked down to the bar top. “You better win that bet, because if we do, that’ll be the end of it.”

“The end of what?” He furrowed his eyebrows.

“Life as we know it.” She turned and walked across the bar without another word. She smiled back at him quickly before pushing the door open and disappearing through it.

~~ A few weeks later and a few states over ~~

She was on the floor struggling to fight off what she was pretty sure was the last vamp of this nest. She was trying not to panic as she realized she was losing. Suddenly, its head was gone, and it fell limp on top of her. She shoved the body off and stood quickly, ready to keep fighting. As she spun around, she locked on a familiar set of gorgeous green eyes, ones she had thought about so many times over the last few weeks. She noticed Sam behind his brother looking around at the dead vamps on the floor.

“It’s you.” Dean stood slightly slack-jawed for a moment. “You’re a hunter?”

“You took out six vamps on your own?” Sam added.

She couldn’t help but smile at the dumbfounded look on Dean’s face. “Winchesters, thanks for the assist.” She glanced around. “It was eight. There are two in the other room.”

“I never told you our last name.” Dean quirked an eyebrow before realization settled in. “You knew who we were.”

“That beautiful Impala of yours is a bit of a giveaway. Any hunter worth a damn has heard the stories.”

Dean broke eye contact as he tried to hide the shy smile that crossed his face. He looked back up and a frown quickly replaced his smile. “You’re bleeding.” He gestured to his own head, mirroring for her.

She reached up to touch her hairline and winced slightly as she pulled away and looked at her hand. She shrugged. “It’s just a scratch.”

He took a couple steps closer. “May I?”

She didn’t respond, simply tipped her head towards him so he could get a better look. His fingertips ghosted over the skin beside the cut. It felt like sparks running through her at the simple touch.

He pulled away and she instantly missed the contact. “You’re right. It’s not too bad. I can clean it for you, if you’d like.”

“I would appreciate that. It'll be so much easier than trying to do it myself in my rearview mirror.” He turned on his heel to walk outside with her following close behind.

He pulled a first-aid kit from the trunk. “Tell me, sweetheart, you always go running into vamp nests without backup?” He started to dab a disinfectant-soaked gauze pad across the cut, and she hissed at the sting.

“Pretty much, yeah. At this point, I actually prefer it. It is better, and safer, than going in with some stranger who might not be experienced enough. Not everyone has a sibling that can practically read their mind.” She glanced around them. “Speaking of, where is Sam?”

Dean carefully placed three small Steri-strips over her wound. He offered her an ice pack, which she declined. “Starting on the cleanup. You are good to go.” He tossed the kit back into the trunk then turned to face her. “What did you say that night? ‘The end of life as we know it’?”

She nodded slowly.

“How about we start with you not running into vamp nests alone anymore,” he suggested.

“Hmm, are you suggesting I find a hunting partner?” she asked.

He shook his head. “No, I’m volunteering myself.”

She smiled as she stepped closer to him, leaving only a few inches between them. The fingers of her right hand found his left and she intertwined them. He glanced down to her lips for a second before they locked eyes again. “I was really hoping we would run into each other again,” she said quietly.

He leaned in and kissed her. Her hands made their way to the short hairs at the back of his neck. His arms wrapped firmly around her waist, hugging her to him. Sooner than she wanted, he pulled away. He nuzzled his nose against hers. “And I was really hoping I’d get to do that again.”

She nodded her agreement and pulled him into another kiss. He shifted them so he could lean against Baby. She pulled away again when she heard Sam clear his throat behind her.

“You think you guys could help with cleanup first?” he asked once he had their attention.

She mustered up her best puppy eyes. “I thought you guys were here to do that part for me.” She gestured to the small cut Dean had just cleaned. “I hit my head and I just thought you guys could handle it.”

Sam shot her a bitchface. “You said it was just a scratch.”

“Damn. I had to try.” She shrugged. “You guys could at least buy me lunch when we’re done.”

Dean leaned to plant a kiss on her cheek as he moved past her. “I think we can arrange that.”

“Hey, Dean?” She reached out to grab his shoulder before he could get too far away.

He turned back to face her. “Hm?”

Her puppy eyes were back. “Those stories you were telling at the bar… Could you tell me those again with the monster parts?”

“On one condition… You tell me a few of yours.”

She nodded. “I think I can handle that.”

~

Tags: @deanwasscaredbyacat​ @babypieandwhiskey​ @muchamusedaboutnothing​ @defenderrosetyler​ @a-dorky-book-keeper​ @akshi8278​

[charincharge]

Cruel Summer, Part 2

cruel summer masterlist

AN: Thank you all so much for your thoughts and comments. I enjoy them immensely. I thought this was all going to be from Rowan’s POV, but... I was wrong. CW: Drinking, swearing.

The first Monday after Ashryver Playland opens is always Aelin’s favorite day of the summer. It’s a silly tradition her grandparents started, but it’s been a part of her life as long as she can remember. That very first Monday after the park’s first successful week, the Ashryver Galathinius clan opens up their summer home to the Playland’s staff and families for an all day pool party and barbeque.

Summer has always been Aelin’s favorite season. It means spending three months of pure bliss in her summer home, overlooking the waters of Terrasen from her bedroom balcony. And there’s something about Ashryver’s opening week barbeque that always manages to sets the tone for her summer. Summer doesn’t really begin until the barbeque begins. It’s always marks her first something.

When she was eleven, Aelin met her first real best friend, Dorian – one of the board member’s sons. She’d left the party to hide in the music room, trying to teach herself how to play her favorite Death Cab for Cutie song on the large grand piano, when he wandered in, singing on top of her stumbling melody line with a flawless unbroken tenor. He’d flashed her a giant smile and pushed his floppy dark curls out of his face and sat down on the bench next to her. They’d been best friends ever since. And the firsts only continued from there.

As Aelin finishes drawing a perfect cat eye with her liquid eyeliner she wonders what first awaits her this summer.  

“Aelin, ten minutes til guests.” Her mother, Evalin, walks past her open bedroom door and does a double-take. “Wowww, someone looks especially nice today,” her mom says with a playful gleam in her eye. “Might I ask who you’re dressing up for?” she asks, taking in Aelin’s white eyelet sundress and full face of makeup. “Because I know this certainly isn’t for Dorian. Wisely.”

“I heard that,” Dorian says, bounding up the last few steps and onto the second floor landing. He sees Aelin and grins that very same grin he gave her that first day he spotted her a decade ago and takes off running. Aelin squeals as Dorian hugs her from behind and swings her around, lifting her off her feet.

“Dor, put me down, I just finished doing my hair!” Aelin says, shrugging him off, but she returns his smile fondly, even as he flops down onto her perfectly made bed, making himself comfortable and kicking off his flip flops.

“You do look suspiciously nice, Ace. What’s with the dress and the hair? Aren’t you going to swim?” Dorian asks stretching his arms up and placing them under his head.

Aelin ignores him and goes back to finishing her makeup. She uncaps a crimson red lipstick and leans into the mirror to apply it when –

“You know if you’re actually looking to make out with someone tonight then red lips probably isn’t the right choice.”

Aelin slides her eye to the boy on her bed and then straightens up again, putting the red lipstick away. He does have a point. Dorian bolts upright, eyebrows raised.

“We’re making out with someone tonight? Who?” Dorian asks, poking Aelin’s thigh with one of his toes.

Aelin’s cheeks flush as she remembers the name of the staff member she so thoroughly stalked the other night. So thoroughly, in fact, that she’s actually embarrassed about it. But also, who has a public Facebook profile these days? Rowan Whitethorn, that’s who.

When Aelin realized all she had to do was ask her five year old nephew for the name of the man who rescued him, she was easily able to find the man on the RSVP list for the barbeque. And from there, she sat in front of her computer for hours, soaking in every last detail she could find. Grew up in Wendlyn, went to school at Mistward and majored in computer sciences and graduated four years ago. His interests include photography and fitness and baking (what man enjoys baking and posts pictures of it?).

Aelin is extremely curious as to how he ended up working at Playland. A man with that kind of degree doesn’t usually find himself ripping ticket stubs, but she’s not complaining about it. Aelin really enjoys looking at his face. And his arms. And his back. She’s anxious to talk to him today, which is annoying. Aelin is never anxious around men. She’s fun and flirty and confident, but one look at Rowan had her excess nerves dancing in circles and turning her into kind of a bitch. She’s hoping her second impression is a lot better. Hence, the dress. And the makeup.

“We’re making out with no one.” Aelin shoots a warning glance in Dorian’s direction as she puts on a light pink lip stain.

“You and Chaol didn’t get back together, did you?” Dorian asks, and Aelin cringes.

“Of course not.” She turns to Dorian as she puts on the final touch – her favorite gold hoop earrings. “You don’t think your best friend would have told you if we’d gotten back together?”

“I don’t know, that last break up nearly took us all out, so if we could not repeat that, that’d be great.” Dorian stares at her, willing her to fess up, but Aelin refuses to give him anything in return. It’s way too early to tell Dorian anything.

“All right, then,” he drawls in a silly British accent. “Keep your secrets.”

Aelin sticks out her tongue as her mom calls out from downstairs, “Kids! Party guests are here!”

“Twenty-four-years old, and we’re still fucking kids,” Dorian grumbles as the pair make their way down the grand front staircase. Aelin hops up onto the wooden banister and rides it all the way down to the bottom, shouting “Catch me!” to Dorian as he runs and chases her to the foyer.

Evalin scolds them, but there’s no real bite to it.  Aelin fixes her banister-swept hair and makes her way out to the front stairs where she and her parents will greet all the staff members and their families. Her parents are all about making the Playland employees feel welcomed, and they make a point to learn each and every one of their names. Plus, they’re a stickler for etiquette. Aelin can’t remember a time when she wasn’t on the front steps to welcome party guests as they arrived.

“I’ll meet you out back in… an hour-ish?” Aelin tells Dorian. “Steal me a bottle of pink champagne?”

Dorian bows at the waist. “Yes, your majesty.” He chuckles softly when she flips him off.

Aelin is the last to join her family. Her parents and her brother, for all intents and purposes, Aedion, already perched and ready to welcome the first wave of guests.

An hour later and Aelin’s jaw already hurts from smiling. She’s shaken so many hands and met so many people and made polite conversation with staff members from years past, but there’s still one face that hasn’t shown yet, and Aelin is having a hard time not showing her disappointment. He RSVPed yes, which means he should be here. Not showing up would be very rude. Right?

Aedion shakes out his hands and cracks his neck loudly. “Who’s ready for a drink?”

Aelin is reluctant to leave the front stairs. Leaving the front stairs means they’re finished greeting people at the party, which means that party guests have stopped arriving, and she’s not ready to admit that defeat. She gives one last wistful glance down the long empty driveway before giving in.

“Yeah, I could use a large drink,” Aelin yawns, leaning into her big brother’s shoulder.

“You’re not allowed to be tired,” he says with a laugh, squeezing her arm. “You are a sprightly youth and don’t have a ten-year-old and a five-year-old waking you up every morning at the crack of dawn to fight about watching Cars or Disney Fam Jam.”

Aelin looks up at him. “That’s not a real thing.”

“I assure you, it is.”

“This guy needs a drink,” Aelin says loudly as she and Aedion make their way out to the back patio where the party is really happening, and Aelin relaxes a tiny bit. So what if Rowan isn’t coming and she got all dressed up for nothing? She’ll look extra cute in pictures this year. She’s here with her family on the first real day of summer, and she’s determined to have a good day, regardless.

She takes in the scene around her – everyone seems to be having the best time. Caterers mill around the stone patio, holding out trays of grilled meats and veggies. At the far side of the patio is a long bar with an ample crowd around it. Champagne is being popped and spirits are being poured, and there’s endless bounds of chatter and laughter from all directions. In the middle of it all, the pool is filled with children and adults alike, playing games and doing handstands and lounging on floats.

The edge of the pool fades into the perfect view of the ocean. Aelin takes a deep breath as she watches the waves break against the shore. She listens to the gulls cawing overhead and inhales the salty sea breeze. Despite her small bout of disappointment, Aelin is happy.

Aedion’s two kids squeal for his attention from the pool.

“Dad! Auntie Ae!” Evie calls from the far end of the pool, her usual strawberry blonde ringlets sopping wet around her shoulders. “Watch me dive!”

Evie dives into the side of the pool, her dolphin arms in perfect form as she splashes into the water. She emerges with a giant smile on her freckled face.

“Good job!” Aedion beams. “Okay, drinks, now,” he whispers to Aelin, guiding her toward the bar.

“Where’s your wife?” Aelin asks, looking around for the green eyed brunette, who’s usually hovering around her children.

Aedion points ahead, and sure enough the woman in question stands at the front of the bar, looking insanely glamorous in a black one piece with a sheer leopard kaftan, taking shots of tequila with Aelin’s favorite returning staff member, Elide.

“Lysandra brought our babysitter with us today,” he says with a devious smile and snakes his way through the crowds to wrap his arm around his wife’s waist.

“Aelin, come do shots!” Elide pulls Aelin up to the bar, her outstretched hand helping her weave her way through the throngs of buzzed staff members. “We’re celebrating my promotion!”

“Ellie is officially manager level this summer.” Lysandra and Elide raise their newly filled shot glasses and hand one each to Aelin and Aedion respectively. Aelin hates tequila but loves Elide, so she clinks glasses and downs the alcohol quickly, grabbing a lime and sucking as much of the juice out of it as she can.

She shudders and Aedion punches her in the shoulder playfully. “Lightweight.”

Aelin rolls her eyes and reverts the topic back to Elide. “So, big shot manager. Does this mean you’re spending all your time with Lorcan now?” Aelin raises her eyebrows, knowing about Elide’s not so small crush on the stoic manager. “Long nights, just the two of you, arranging schedules in the soft romantic light of the Playland breakroom?”

Elide covers her face with her hand and screws her eyes shut. “Oh my god! No! No that is not what is happening at all.”

“Your mouth says no, but your blush says – ‘Yes, Lorcan, yes!’” Aelin teases, poking at Elide’s rosy cheeks. Elide slaps Aelin’s hands away.

“I just had three tequila shots, of course my cheeks are red.” Elide’s hands go to her cheeks, covering them as much as she can, trying to will away the warm flush creeping over her face. “You’re a monster, Aelin. That’s not what’s going on with Lorcan,” she hisses.

“What’s going on with me?” Lorcan asks, approaching from out of nowhere with a beer in his hand, and if possible Elide’s blush grows even deeper.

“Nothing!” Elide shouts, exasperated. “I’ll be right back. Be good, Aelin.” She throws Aelin a warning glare as she stalks off, and Lysandra and Aedion bite back their laughter as a bewildered Lorcan muses out loud—

“Did I say something?”

“No,” Aelin says, turning all her attention to Lorcan. “Elide was just saying how excited she is to work as a manager with you.”

Lorcan’s face lights up as he takes a sip of his beer. “Yeah, she’s been a huge help so far. Especially with such a new staff this year.”

“Yeah… a lot of newbies this year.” Aelin pauses, wondering if she should probe Lorcan about Rowan. It wouldn’t do any harm, right? “Anyone giving you any trouble?”

“Nah,” Lorcan shakes his head and pushes a long piece of hair behind his hair. “But you know me. I like them to think they’re all giving me trouble, so they act accordingly.” He snorts, amused with his own management technique. “There’s one new guy who is so jumpy around me. I love it.”

“You’re evil,” Aelin laughs.

“I prefer diabolical,” Lorcan replies. “Ah, and it looks like he just arrived,” Lorcan continues with a grin. “Want me to introduce you, so you can see it up close?”

Lorcan points in the direction of the sliding doors that lead out to the patio, and there, in all his tall blonde and board-shorted glory stands Rowan. Finally. But Aelin’s heart drops. Because Rowan isn’t alone. He’s arrived with a girl.

~*~*~*~*~

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[allforhader]

Dream a Little Dream of Me

Bill Hader x (F) Reader

Requested By: @designersophisticate

Warnings: Langauge

[ e/c : eye color]

Having those second thoughts after years of a commitment you thought was going to last until you’re buried six feet under...yeah. As much as that is dark. I never thought I’d feel this way about someone again.

“Hey, Y/N did you see that TMZ article?”

“Kristen the fact that you’re saying TMZ, I’m already disinterested”

“Well yeah. But if it’s about you, shouldn’t you read it?”

“What’s so interesting about my life that’s got TMZ all over it?” Y/N laughs at the thought because besides being a married successful actor, what interesting thing can they get?

“As much as TMZ isn’t the best source the fans should look at, this stuff can still hurt actors” Kristen states showing Y/N the article off her phone.

Y/F/N Y/L/N seen with Bill Hader without their significant others—Is there something there?

Y/N gave it a neutral look before handing Kristen her phone back. “Textbook rumor, hell. It was probably a teen that wrote that”

“Are you going to tell Bill or have him find out himself?”

“Knowing him and media, I’m gonna have to tell him” Y/N laughs before pulling up the article on her phone and sending it to Bill.

Bill: Wow. Haha, that’s a textbook rumor

Y/N: Thats what I told Kristen lol

Bill: So...You’re already in New York for SNL Saturday right?

Y/N: Right?

Bill: You want to grab drinks? Night before of course

Before Y/N can say anything more she stops herself from replying when her husband texted her. A smile formed on her face loving that he did but there’s so much more to it...

Evan: Hey baby!

Evan: Hope New York ain’t that humid like it is here. Honestly if it weren’t for our careers, we would totally be in a colder state. Can’t stand the heat

Evan: but yknow. LA is home lol

Evan: Speaking of LA, TMZ made a ridiculous article lmao. If I didn’t know already that you and Bill are just friends, I’d be worried. But again...It’s TMZ

Evan: Anyway! I love you

Y/N: I love you too

Bill frowns seeing she hasn’t responded and feels like he’s come on a little strong when...it’s just drinks.

“Hey, you gotta get going or you’ll miss your flight” Maggie smiles handing Bill his coat before he left.

He of course kisses his wife goodbye, but the lingering feeling in his chest grew.

When Bill was in the air he decided to shoot a text to Y/N indicating that he invited their friends but Y/N didn’t receive it. Reception and everything. But—

Y/N: I’d love to

was sent before Bill’s when his plane landed and he didn’t realize until it sent.

Bill: I invited Kate, Kenan, Fred, and Kristen...John is a maybe and Seth isn’t going to be in town.

“Shit. Should’ve—-fuck” Bill frowns waiting in baggage claim when Fred scared the man out of the blue. Even if Bill did know he was his ride.

Y/N sat in her hotel room staring at the text for a minute before checking the time and suddenly getting a semi crazy idea.

Y/N: You told me the other day you got a late flight...wondering if you want to order in some room service at my hotel room. If you’re not tired

Bill: Fred picked me up from the airport if you don’t mind him tagging along

Y/N: More the merrier :)

More the merrier...

After arrival and ordering in, Fred and Bill had already started to argued with each other about true crimes as Y/N sat back watching the two go back and forth. She laughs as she drinks her wine.

“So does it always end with her snapping?”

“No but when she snaps-“

“She snaps”

“Okay” Y/N laughs setting down her glass as Bill couldn’t help but smile enjoying her laugh.

“Well. I’m gonna get some sleep. I’ll see you two tomorrow” Fred got up giving Bill a look before leaving the two alone.

“Damn and I was just starting to enjoy your talk about true crime. I’m more into medical dramas”

“Like Grey’s?”

“Oh definitely Grey’s” Y/N smiles laughing as Bill moves himself beside her on the bed leaning against the headboard. “Did you even start it when I recommended it to you?”

“Okay I got up to season...eight and that is a shitton of Drama for me to handle”

“And yet you watch Snapped like it’s something you can’t live without”

“Ok ok...Snapped. Is the greatest show that I don’t even have a valid reason to explain why I like it so much.” Bill states looking over at Y/N as he...found himself lost in a thought.

Can’t really say the thought hasn’t crossed my mind. What if my life would’ve been different if I met Y/N before I got married? It clearly would’ve been different but would life have gone the same route as it is now...I’m lucky. Fuck. Lucky she’s in my life as it is...just

Friday rehearsals went by fast, Bill got a kick out of watching Y/N take off the liquid latex off her eyebrows. He laughs as he hands her the makeup wipes to get off the residue. Y/N rolls her eyes flicking Bill in the forehead for laughing at her.

“Y/N, John is looking for you. Wants to run lines again” Fred smiles watching Y/N clean up a bit before going to find John.

“Didn’t John leave before the rest of us?”

“Yeah but I wanted a minute to ask you”

“Ask me what?”

“I don’t know. Guess I’m stalling” Fred wasn’t stalling, he honestly wanted to be nosey asking if anything more happened when he was gone. He didn’t think exactly that. But the thought did cross his mind. “Uh. So about drinks tonight. That’s still down?”

“You really has to ask without Y/N present? Yeah it’s still down” Bill laughs patting Fred’s back before grabbing his things.

Soon the gang was hitting the bar late and really just enjoying each other’s time. Fred handed Kristen and Y/N their drinks as Kenan handed Kate and Bill theirs.

“You owe new a game of darts Fred”

“You are so on” Fred laughs at Kenan as he immediately got up from the booth.

“So Y/N, how’s your life in LA?” Kate smiles. “I have a role down there and wanted to know if there’s anything worth it”

“Well if you’ve in LA as long as I have, it’s pretty much worth seeing everything. When you have the time of course” Y/N smiles taking a sip of her wine catching Bill’s gaze on her which instantly made him look away.

“None of us have been in LA as long as you have. Literally. The phrase that “no one is from LA” is true when it comes to you” Kristen smiles watching Y/N shrug. “What’s stopping you from leaving?”

“Yeah, and don’t say career. Because you can easily live here and become a full on regular for SNL. Also get a few gigs here” Kate states as Y/N rolls her eyes smiling.

“I would do anything to get out of LA...but yknow. My husband is the reason.”

“God I hate that” Bill says out of the blue catching all three of them staring at him as he quickly downs his scotch. “Um. Y’know. If they really love and support you. You can do anything. But if they don’t...”

“They aren’t the one for yeah” John cuts in sliding into the booth beside Y/N. “Sorry for coming late. Had to get a few last minute ideas run by Lorne”

“You’re all good. But Kenan and Fred have beat you to the dart board”

“Shit. I call winner, re-fills?” John asks catching a nod from everyone but Y/N. “Want a new drink or?”

“Or...I’m gonna walk back to my hotel. Not feeling that great”

“Already? Damn...well at least get drinks with me when I’m in LA?”

“Of course Kate, see you guys tomorrow” Y/N smiles grabbing her coat and leaving the booth.

Bill watches her go giving John a look as he shrugs pointing with his eyes. He immediately got up going to catch up with her. She wasn’t far...but he hesitated for a second.

“They aren’t the one for yeah” Thanks John. I’ll be thinking about that for the rest of my life. Or well...the rest of my marriage.

Y/N froze when she heard fast movement behind her indicating the short run Bill made. She looks at him confused as he gave her a concerned look.

“We...are in the same hotel. Want to walk with me?”

“Yeah..I do” Bill states catching a very light tint of pink growing on Y/N’s cheeks as she quickly looked away. “Um. Are you only leaving because of what I said?” he asks as they started walking side by side.

Yes. Because...well what am I supposed to say to you? I can’t live to you. You’re one of my best friends. Someone I can be honest with. But you...make my mind go blank for a good minute. Forgetting that I’m married. Married to someone I’m just trying to make it work with at this point...I love Evan don’t get me wrong...but god what would I do—

“Uh. Can I lie saying it didn’t bug me?”

“So it bugged you”

“Little bit”

“I’m sorry” Bill frowns wishing he didn’t say it at all or let his emotions be a factor in it all.

“Be honest with me?”

“Always”

“Are you and Maggie okay? Because there....um. Must’ve been more to it personally than the obvious” But what’s the obvious? That I’m in love with you? Shit.

“Well, she loves me. I love her. But...the feeling is mutual. We haven’t talked about it entirely but when...the spark dies. It dies” Bill said bluntly making Y/N think too hard about what he just said. She didn’t want to feel bad, a part of her felt differently. “We really just yknow what to get everything in order before officially”

“Yeah no...I get it. Well. Yeah I do. I get it” Y/N frowns before flinching to the sudden boom.

Bill looks at Y/N freak a tad to the boom which was the sound of thunder. It’s not New York without one day of rain. Let alone lightening. He instantly wraps his arm around her out of instinct directing her under an awning.

“Should’ve...taken a cab”

“Mm. We can make it. If you trust me out in the rain”

“If we get electrocuted. It’s God hating me” Fuck.

I trust him.

I know she trusts me.

He wouldn’t have said that...if there wasn’t something.

She doesn’t like talking about Evan. Could there...

There’s something else

Fuck. Be true.

I’m...Ive been....

After all these years...I can’t just call her a friend.

“Fuck. Even in a jacket I’m soaking....fuck” Y/N was shaking but not because of the rain. Being afraid of thunder is a completely different story that she didn’t have the time to explain, when her mind is wondering.

“Come on...you should get out of the wet clothes” Bill says as he rests his hand on her cheek catching her gaze. Her beautiful e/c eyes looking up at him catching a whole other feeling.

After getting out of her wet clothes, Y/N opens her hotel room door looking up at a very distressed Bill. She frowns letting him in and once the door closed, he turned back to her taking her face into his hands kissing her.

I shouldn’t have done that.

...mutual

Fuck

Y/N shortly after pushed Bill off giving him a worried look before suddenly laughing and breaking down into tears. I’m sorry.

“Y/N—“

“I-...God. You have no idea Bill Hader. No fucking idea”

“What do you mean?” Bill frowns trying to comfort her but Y/N retracted herself.

“I feel so out of place here. Like. God. You drive me insane! And I don’t mean in a negative way. It’s never in a negative way. I’m just—-terrified!” Y/N laughs as she choked up on her tears. “I’m...I’ve been in love with you ever since we got close. But I’m married—you’re married—-and adultery is a fucking....sin? Hell I’m not religious but it is! Like Bill don’t get me wrong” She states resting her hands on his chest looking up at him as he continued to have a worried look. “I...I want to be with you. But I can’t...can’t do that to Evan.”

Bill watches her continue to cry as he takes in a deep breath before exhaling and resting his hands on her cheeks making her look at her. “It’s terrifying...falling in love again...especially to someone who has already locked that down. You’re...not alone in that boat. And I....I don’t want to give you an ultimatum or whatever the right word is called but...”

But?

“I’m willing to wait until the end of my lifetime to be with you. I know the next chapter in my life and my wife is on the same page. But the one after that...I’m willing to wait forever if I have to. If it means being with you. I’m not going to force you Y/N. You mean the world to me, but I don’t want to hurt you for eternity by forcing you”

And that’s that. He said that and Y/N took it to heart. Knowing exactly the next thing she does.

Is her choice.

The two haven’t seen each other in six months the after that SNL night, let alone talk to each other. Bill got a divorce, and he has set time for himself until he got a role at the end of that six month period heading straight for New York. Pretty common place for movies to be shot but he didn’t want to go anywhere crazy at that moment. Stepping onto set first day meeting the people you’ll be working with for months wasn’t a hard thing to do, but being handed a physical script that has the character list within it. Bill took his seat at the table read opening the script and reading-

“Hey Hader” Y/N smiles sitting beside him setting down her copy of the script and her tea. “It’s been a while”

“It has...you cut your hair” Bill smiles admiring the new look of hers. Y/N shot him a smile before elbowing him.

“Working out for Barry still Huh?” Y/N smiles catching a laugh as Bill nods crossing his arms. “You’re perfect no matter what. Y’know that right?”

“I do, do you?”

“Of course” Y/N smiles as the two straighten up when it got time for the actual read.

Afterward...

“You have a ride?”

“Rental”

“Oh shit. Hold on. Did you pay for a hotel room yet?” Y/N asks confusing the fuck out of Bill as she laughs at the confused look. “Just answer it Bill”

“Not yet. I just got in to be honest”

“Stay with me then” Y/N smiles. “I live in a loft on 408 Greenwich Street...it’s not that far and I have plenty of room”

“Lead the way?” Bill tosses her his keys as Y/N smiles nodding.

She’s...still the same happy girl when he first met her. Even if they both been through a lot the past six months. A lot has changed but the one thing Bill worried about...hasn’t changed. Because she doesn’t want their relationship to change until...then

Bill looks out into the street from her loft’s window. It’s not that bad of a neighborhood. Makes him wonder if it’s ever crazy loud at night or if it’s safe. He wants her to be safe.

“So, how long have you been here?”

“Uh. A month. But I put a down payment two months ago. It’s nice right? Not too big. Not too small. Just right...” Y/N smiles walking over standing beside him. “How are you? How’s everything in LA?”

“I’m good. Everything is good” Bill smiles. “And you? Evan?”

“Well, the decision wasn’t mutual. But it brought more things to light. So...Yknow. It was a matter of time” Y/N shrugs. “But hey. We are finalizing it. He’s still in LA and I’m here. Kinda...starting over. Turning a new leaf” she laughs at how that can sound but he understood. He understood completely.

“So, I know...the wound is still fresh. But baby steps huh?”

“Yeah” Y/N smiles taking his hand into hers feeling him gently squeeze. “Baby steps”

[samueldays]

Sunless Sea's Shit Bits

I cheer Master of Orion (1993) a lot for being a very well executed video game and doing so many things right that it still overshadows modern 4X. Let’s look at [mechanical elements of] a poorly executed game today: Sunless Sea (2015), from Alexis Kennedy and Failbetter Games, so bad in parts it could have been done better ten years earlier.

First to acknowledge the good bits: Sunless Sea is well written. It’s very well written. It’s as much epistolary novel as game. It has an interesting premise, a unique setting, and colorful characters.

And the competence floor: SS doesn’t crash on exit, doesn’t corrupt my computer memory, doesn’t alter my screen resolution, doesn’t lie to me about my character resources. It lacks what I might call antifeatures, so I could tolerate playing it for hours.

With that out of the way...

Sunless Sea is a game where you play a captain of a ship visiting ports on the Unterzee (Undersea), doing a bunch of the usual shipgame stuff: trading trade goods, fighting other ships, fighting sea monsters, performing fetch quests, exploring unexplored islands, and smuggling contraband.

To encourage you to travel from port to port while consuming game content, there’s a mechanic called Something Awaits You (SAY). You either have SAY or you don’t. SAY also has an internal RNG value. SAY is granted and the internal value (re)rolled every minute you spend at sea. Many port interactions consume SAY to perform. Even some repeatable interactions consume SAY, like a crew recruitment action - sensibly enough, there won’t be more crew available for a while, come back later.

Some rare port interactions require high SAY values. Some chains of interactions consume SAY multiple times underway, meaning you can’t bull through them all at once, but should sail off and do something useful in another port before sailing back here.

At this point you may see the first potential wrinkle in execution: if I’m in a long port story that I want to continue without interruption, I can push my ship 3mm out of harbor, wait 60 seconds for SAY, push 3mm back in and continue the story. The game will then display dialogue as though I’d been off sailing the vast undersea.

This is annoying and dumb.

(Proposed alternative: Condition on having visited a different port.)

Criticism of more SAY, Terror and sunlight mechanics below the cut. ---

SAY also winds up devaluing fast engines.

If I’m running a simple trade route that takes 62 seconds to sail, buying and selling goods and spending my SAY at each end, and I buy a faster engine which reduces route time to 56 seconds... no SAY for me! So I spend another four seconds idling just outside port, waiting for the timer to tick over before I get SAY and can officially announce “We are docking now”.

(Proposed alternative: Faster engines should reduce the SAY timer. Or, again, different port.)

And then you have Frostfound, a port in the frozen north. The flavor text on a repeatable Frostfound interaction reads in part:

They offer you fuel and supplies before you leave. "We keep enough to spare," the Riddlefisher grins. "From time to time a captain gets lost and comes up here, and we always feel bad for them."

[-10 Terror, +1 Fuel, +1 Supplies, consumes SAY]

This is prodigiously abusable by “leaving port”, waiting 60 seconds right outside of port, and “docking” again to get more resources and more mental health for free... well, the cost is in player time. And any sensibilities you may have about abusing the hospitality of the Riddlefisher.

---

Now let’s discuss that Terror trait.

Terror is like inverse-health. It starts at 0, and ticks up over time when you are out on the Unterzee. It ticks up faster if you have lights off (lights consume fuel and aggravate monsters), and ticks up faster if you are out of sight of land. If you are hugging a coast and have lights on, Terror does not tick up. You (more or less) lose at 100 Terror.

There’s an incremental sub-ticker for Terror. Lights around the skull tick up over time, one by one. When they’re filled, the red bar ticks up Terror proper by 1 and the lights reset.

Lights around the skull tick slowly down if you are hugging a coast and have lights on. This will not cause Terror to decrease if all the skull counter lights are off.

Lights tick discretely every few seconds, not continuously.

With a good sense of time (or a key macro) you can run mostly dark, flicking the lights on for a split-second to prevent the skull counter from counting up, ficking them off again for several seconds to save fuel.

This is really annoying and really dumb. I don’t do it myself, but “if you think it’s dumb don’t do it” is a poor excuse for your game incentivizing a dumb annoying playstyle where your ship’s lights are only on for 300ms every 4s or whatever. Terror is supposed to be the cost of running dark; it mangles both the mechanics and the fluff to let you get the peace of running light and the economy of running dark by strobing.

(Proposed alternative: Make it more finely discrete, approaching continuous.)

As well as the ongoing tick, Terror goes up in larger chunks from a great many events in the mild horror side of the game. One such is swapping officers while at sea - bad for crew morale, that. Which leads obliquely into the matter of sunlight...

---

Terror is one of several Menace qualities that can end your game if they get too high. Wounds is another. Yearning, Burning is a third, acquired if your beneath-born captain travels to the surface and gazes upon the light of the true Sun for too long.

Catching sunlight in mirror-lined boxes and selling it Beneath is one of the more profitable forms of smuggling in Sunless Sea, so you may find yourself acquiring some Yearning, Burning obsession with the Sun.

(The Sun. The Sun. The Sun. Oh, the Sun. How its light calls to you.)

Spending time resting in the peaceful darkness of your home in Under-London partly relieves all three menaces mentioned above. BUT! Resting at home cures Yearning, Burning more slowly than the other menaces, and you can only rest at home if you have Terror or Wounds you need to recover from. Having only YB will not let you rest. Flavor-wise, I imagine merely pacing about your home has little effect, and it’s reasonable that a fantasy quasi-addiction would ‘heal’ slower than injury when at rest or simple fear when on shore leave.

The wrinkle in execution?

Have at least two candidates for the same officer post. Board your ship in Under-London, scooch a hair’s breadth out of port so that you are technically 'at sea', and begin repeatedly switching officers. (Maybe pause the game so you don’t consume fuel while doing this.)

“BOB, YOU HAVE THE HELM! NO, JIM, YOU HAVE THE HELM ! NO, BOB, YOU HAVE THE HELM ! NO, JIM, YOU HAVE THE HELM !”

It will hurt your crew morale and raise Terror to see the mad captain repeatedly altering command while ‘at sea’. With terror acquired, scooch back into port. Now you have Terror and can rest at your house again, losing Yearning, Burning in the process. Repeat as necessary until you have rested off all your YB.

For extra wrinkles in the flavor interaction, it helps here to sell your mansion, if you are rich enough to own one, and instead go rest in a cheap tavern room, where you heal Terror slower but heal YB at the same rate, allowing you to ‘buy’ more YB recovery with Terror.

No, you can’t rest in a cheap tavern room while you own a mansion. The game requires you to sell your mansion first. 🤔

(Proposed alternatives: Various, because this is a multifaceted problem. A simple one might be to have YB tick down at the same rate as Terror ticks up when sailing on the Undersea - being out in the cold wet dark drives out thoughts of the faraway burning light.)

---

I want to spell out that these are not bugs. They are mechanics working as designed, and they are badly designed or badly executed. The Terror counter in particular is very clearly designed to behave a certain way with discrete, incremental ticks at intervals. The UI has a counter for the ticks. There was no intent of making a continuous meter that ‘accidentally’ turned into a discrete meter through programming error.

[renwritesstuff]

we are family

Day 4: we are family.

Describe or draw a familiar moment. Are they close, or estranged? Are they blood relatives, or family found with friends?

Two Traynors stared each other down, hands hovering over a small box. There were 5 empty shot glasses in a semicircle around them, flanking the pristine chess board between the pair.

Wiping her hands with a dish towel, Priya Suresh-Traynor pleaded with her family. “Dessert is almost ready, do you two have to do this now?”

“The fate of the galaxy depends on it, mum,” Samantha Traynor mumbled back, not breaking eye contact with her father.

“You heard the kid,” Geoffrey Traynor seconded with a lazy smile. “I need to know my little sprog‘s mind hasn’t gotten soft since she’s been away.”

“Soft?? Did you miss the part where I kicked Polgara T’Suza’s arse across the Citadel?”

“Vid or it didn’t happen.”

What are you, five??

...God, I wish I had a vid. Are there vids? I wonder if I can ask for one...

“I have a trophy proving it happened. And a witness.” Sam’s eyes flitted over to the witness in question, her gaze narrowing.

Commander Annelise Shepard held her glass of red wine in surrender. Her voice came out wet and shaky from her fresh sip. “She’s—” Shepard patted her chest from the cough. “—She’s correct. She electrocuted that asari good.” 

And got a shower as a prize.

That narrow challenge in her eyes switched to panic as Sam glanced back at her father, who was tsking in disapproval. “Neuro-feedback chess? ...Sammy. You didn’t.”

The Comms Specialist scowled. “I didn’t choose it, it was part of the tourney rules. Usually, yes, I have slightly more integrity.” Unless I really want to win, that is. “It was just a lark, father.”

“Well as long as it was on a lark you buried that smug asari, I guess you’re forgiven. ...still can’t top your Dad at 5-Shot Speed Chess though, I bet.” The older man blew on his knuckles theatrically and gave them a wiggle before resuming his position at the worn speed clock.

Oh, you’re on.

“Oh, you’re on.”

Priya gave an apologetic smile at Shepard, who had taken up perch at the kitchen counter partition. The bar seat next to her was empty, waiting for Sam to return from her tense game. The matriarch of the Traynor family was busy at the stove stirring the simmering pot of kheer on one burner while checking a boiling sugary syrup on another. The warm kitchen filled with the scent of Indian spices and jasmine rice bled over into the prefab living room area.

“I wish I could lie and say something like ‘they aren’t usually like this,’ but…” Priya shrugged and smiled fondly at her husband as the game began. The speed clock snapped with each hit as the older and younger Traynor dove into an intense exchange of pieces. “It’s actually a tradition when Sammy comes home.” She paused before clarifying. “A tradition since Sammy was proper drinking age, mind you.”

Annelise smiled and raised an eyebrow. “Is that right?”

Sighing, Priya tapped away her Omni-tool where a reverse countdown timer could be seen by Shepard. “I think it was One-Shot Speed Chess back then,” she admitted. “I swear we were a classy family at some point. ...I can’t recall when, precisely, but I assumed we had to have bumbled into it somewhere in the last 25 years.”

“I’m 26, mum,” Sam reminded loudly as she slapped the clock once more.

“We were definitely classy when you were one, sprog,” Priya snarked back. “I mean, you weren’t because you just ate and shat all day, but Geoffrey and I were newlyweds and still extremely classy.”

“Muuuuuuum!” 

Oh my God do we have to talk about me shitting my diaper in front of Shepard???

Annelise failed to hide a staccato of exhale-laughs behind her wine glass, amused by the exchange.

Oh my God why did we come here?

...Oh shit Dad almost had me there.

Oh shit are they doing this on purpose? Working together against me??

Betrayed by my own flesh and blood!

Sam had to do a few lazy blinks to push back the swimming in her head and vision. Those shots were creeping in fast aided by a full stomach of naan and saag paneer. But she resumed focus on the game at hand, giving the clock another slap as she nudged her white bishop in an offensive position.

“So, Comm—Annelise,” Priya fumbled slightly. “What are your parents like?”

Mum. Did you not watch any ANN profiles? 

Shepard’s sip of wine was casual, unruffled by the question. “Couldn’t tell you. Both gone. Mom when I was four from eezo poisoning, Dad when I was thirteen. Fire in our apartment building.”

What could have been a very awkward silence was instead filled with Priya’s empathetic tongue cluck (honed from years of practice as a registered nurse). “You poor thing. Too much life experience forced onto someone so young.” Her vigorous stirring motion never wavered. “Not to mention the life of a marine on top of all that. What a hand this universe deals us, hm?”

“Indeed,” Annelise agreed. She smiled sadly, her eyes inward as though weighing something. “This reminds me of the dinners I had with my brother and dad.”

Oh? Samantha’s head tilted so she could hear better. Her father was closing in on one corner of the board, but her queen sprang into a hole in his defenses.

“Oh?” Priya asked, echoing Sam’s own curiosity.

Nodding, Annelise rotating the now empty wine glass in her hand. “Dad wasn’t much for cooking, but John loved it. He loved grilling and barbecue. He’d usually save some of his courier paycheck for a good cut of meat at the store and try out different seasonings.” She closed her eyes and inhaled deeply. “I bet he would have loved your cooking.”

“I fear I know the answer, but where is ...John?” At Shepard’s nod, Priya continued. “Where is John now?”

Oh no.

Should have given your folks some notes, Traynor.

I didn’t think it was my tale to tell!

How are you this bad at relationships, Traynor??

“Also gone, right before Dad. Car accident.” Annelise chewed her cheek a moment. “You know, before the Skyllian Blitz, I thought I was pretty unlucky based on all that.”

“And now?”

“Well, everything’s kind of a shit show, so jury’s out on that.” Annelise looked over at Sam, who was getting louder and more erratic with her clock taps. “But lucky in other ways.”

“Oh good answer, love!” Priya crowed, snapping the towel in Annelise’s direction. “A for effort, superbly charming response.” Her Omni-tool started beeping, signaling the woman to pull the pot of rice milk off the burner and set it aside to cool before turning her attention to the syrup. “What were three favorite things your brother cooked?”

An exhale deep through Shepard’s nose as she held her chin in her hand. “Oh God, I haven’t thought about that in ages.” She nodded at Priya’s silent pantomime offer to refill her wine glass. “He loved ribeye steak. Kind of fatty for me, and too damn expensive, but… I dunno, I liked it because he liked it so much.”

Aw. Sam felt a pang of longing for Shepard. There was a fondness to the woman’s tone that didn’t come up often. 

How often does Commander Bloody Shepard have a moment to think about her family? Or talk about them?

We should work on that, Traynor.

Geoffrey piped up regarding one of his favorite subjects. “Good man! Good cut of beef. What temperature?” He pointed a finger at Annelise as though calling on a student in one of his classes.

“Medium rare.”

“Good man indeed,” Geoffrey agreed as he slapped the timer one more time. White and black sides pieces were dwindling as lines of attack thinned out.

“Let’s see, what else… He actually did a spiced mutton I really liked. Sometimes lamb. Both were dirt cheap for awhile in Seattle before the drought, so he made a lot of it.” Annelise smiled as she accepted a small round poor of kheer, a sprinkling of ground nuts on top. “Oh, and his ribs were to die for. John had this dry rub mixture he spent months tinkering with. Took damn near eight hours to cook, but worth it.”

Geoffrey exchanged a look with his wife before cutting back to the game. Priya nodded.“Oh we love lamb in this house. One of the many reasons we applied for colony life. No more ration stamps from those artificial trade wars with the Volus, and all our farming sustainable and available direct to the colony first.” Priya fired up her Omni-tool. “I have a lot of great lamb recipes if you’re—goodness! I haven’t asked how your cooking chops fare?”

Nudging a pawn over to take Sam’s knight, Geoffrey jibed. “A loaded question, dear. We all know our Sammy is completely dependent on Alliance-provided cafeteria food. How she survived four years at Oxford is a complete mystery. She should have either ended up three hundred pounds from eating rubbish or died of scurvy.”

Hey!

“You talk a lot of shit, old man, for someone who just got checked. And it’s called a dormitory meal plan, I’ll have you know. I had three square meals.”

I just probably didn’t drink water the entire time. All booze or energy drinks.

“Of cafeteria food, further proving my point. Also, check.”

Ugh. Also, what?

That exhale-laugh from Annelise almost pulled Sam away from her last ditch strategy. The Commander extended her own Omni-tool. “I’d love the help. While I can survive on a remote moon with just a knife and a canteen, I don’t prefer to. I did undercover work for a year after graduating N7, so we had to learn how to be human again. Cooking included. Some of it even some fancy five course meals meant to impress targets.”

“So you know where all the forks go and what they do?” Samantha asked, slapping the timer. “Check.”

“I definitely do.” Those green eyes glittered with mirth.

“Oooh, be still my heart.” Sam shot a finger-gun at her girlfriend.

Priya made some flicking motions with her fingers before an answering ping from Shepard’s wrist. “Well, here are some of Sammy’s favorites. Someone should have them, since the pride of my life can’t make toast.” 

“Hey!”

“I also made note of some of the ones with Sammy’s allergies.”

Annelise flicked through the holo screen, studying the recipes. “Curry, shellfish, and peanuts, right?”

You forgot public speaking and losing at chess to my father.

Sam’s mother clutched her heart theatrically. “You know! Oh Geoffrey, did you hear? Sammy trusted her with shellfish, darling!” Priya poured a ladle full of the syrup over a small pyramid of large cake-like balls that had been chilling in a dish. She brought the dish over to the pair of competitors whose game was nearing completion.

“Check! And I did, love! It seems our Samantha is serious about this one! ...or her commanding officer looked at her file.” He grinned at his daughter before reaching for one of the gulab jamun.

Scowling, Sam slapped his hand away from the bowl before slapping the speed clock again. She could feel a heat rising in her neck and jaw (hopefully it was just the alcohol). “No dessert til we finish the game! And check!” 

After a tentative bite, Annelise dug into the bowl of sweet kheer with enthusiasm. “I mean, you’re not wrong, sir. But I had the decency to act surprised when she finally told me. How was that again, Samantha?” 

Oh sonabitch.

“When we went out on a date in public for the first time and I stole a bite of your lobster roll and my throat closed and we had to go to the med center.”

Both of her parents barked her name at the same time. “Samantha Karuna Traynor!” Her father added, “You always were a sucker for lobster despite never learning your lesson. And check.”

“It was worth it!” Sam squawked. “It was delicious! Also: check mate!” The pawn she’d been nudging forward that her father ignored got promoted to a rook and was now perfectly positioned to box in his king. 

Geoffrey stared at the change of fortune, dismayed and swaying a little in his chair. The shots were clearly taking hold. He tipped his king over in surrender, bowed his head at his daughter, and grabbed the topmost gulab jamun. 

Samantha joined him with a second ball, the syrup coating dripping slightly. They raised their desserts in salute before taking a big bite.

Mouth full, Sam grinned up at Shepard who was standing next to her chair. “I had you there to rescue me, darling. I knew I’d be all right.”

“I hope that’s always the case,” Annelise smiled back as she kissed Sam’s forehead. 

Before she slowly dropped down to one knee.

[birdsandspades]

I Was Never Good at Waiting (Sugawara X Reader) Chapter 3

- It was your last year in highschool, everything had been going smoothly until you got assigned the new teacher. Sugawara Koushi was handsome, maybe too handsome for his own good. Be he wasn't flirting with you right, teachers shouldn't do that....I guess we will see where this year goes.

Word Count - 3,163

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Sunlight peeked through your blinds as the soft vibrations from your phone woke you from your dreams. Opening one eye you turned to look at the digital clock on your desk next to your bed. It was 6:00 a.m, time for you to get ready for the day. Lifting your legs into the air you rotated side to side, gathering enough momentum for you to roll yourself off the bed. 

Soft padded footsteps echoed through the silent house as you meandered to the bathroom. You ran your hand over the wall a few times, finally hitting the light switch. The lights flickered on, your eyes burning at the sudden shift in brightness. You rubbed circles on them with your palms, fuzzy white dots filling your vision. 

After the blurry vision dissipated you took a look at your groggy state. Most of the hair that had been inside of your bun had found it's way out, standing up in various directions. The underneath of your eyes were sunken and dark, but this was normal. Tired was just another word to describe your features at this point. Taking out your hair tie you combed through your nest like hair while turning on the shower, attempting to guide the temperature to a desirable position.

Stripping yourself of your nightly bedwear, you stepped inside and pulled the door closed. You recoiled as the cold water hit your back, cursing as you adjusted the temperature once again. Your morning showers were quick, only for the purpose of taming your bedhead, you showered at night for cleanliness. You ran through your morning shower cycle quickly before shutting off the water. You felt around for your towel, grabbing at nothing. You pulled open the shower door, glaring at the empty towel rod. You look in a deep breath, sprinting out of the warm bathroom and into the cold hallway. You b-lined for the linen closet, practically ripping it off it's hinges as you pulled something warm and fuzzy out of the dark hole in the wall. 

After your refreshing, brisk morning run you towel dried you and your wet feet prints.You peaked out of the bathroom again, looking at the bright red numbers on your clock, 6:15. 

Next you brushed your hair, teeth, and dressed yourself for class. Today’s dress was for the most part what you wore every day. A short sleeved light blue button up, a faded red tie (the same one you had received on your first day of first year), your tan plaid pleated shirt, black knee high socks, and to top it off the one thing you could change as you pleased. Most days you opted for the light cream colored sweater vest under your white school jacket, but today felt like a cream cardigan kind of day instead. Most likely because the news reports called for a rainy day today, but also because you wanted to mix it up. 

Your makeup was easy to put on, your hair was just as simple. You had always liked leaving it down but always brought a ponytail just in case. The watch ticking away on your wrist read 6:45, your morning was passing by fast. You gathered your bag and coat before walking downstairs and laying them on the couch. 

Pulling open the fridge doors you pulled out everything you had prepped the night before, all you really had to do was assemble it in your lunch box and you could leave for school. Once you finished that you put it all away and placed your lunch in your bag before pulling on your coat and situating your bag on your shoulder. Walking out the door you locked it behind you and started your walk to school.

Your trip was always the longest part of your day, you had chosen Sejoh because of the impact it had on your moms adolescent life, sure it was out of the way. But that's what legs and trains were for right? 

It took you approximately an hour and fifteen minutes to get to the school from your house. In that time you would walk fifteen minutes to the train station, take two different trains to the station by the school, and walk another ten minutes to the actual school. As long as you were on time, the distance didn’t matter. 

You liked to use the time for writing, mostly songs. It was a hobby only your friends knew about, they also were the only two who knew about the band you had joined last year. It was never an end game option for you, no career would ever come out of the group of ragtag college students who had formed the group years ago. But they were nice enough to let you sing for them when the original member had graduated and moved on from the dream. As long as you could come up with songs, and of course make the time for practice, well they liked having you around. 

You would love to tell the volleyball club about what you did during your weekends away from the club and schoolwork. You probably would have if it wasn’t for the looming threat of every single shitty dive bar you performed at finding out that you indeed were seventeen (going on eighteen, that was important), and in fact not twenty one. But whatever, you were having fun. 

You walked past the front gates and into the lockers at around 8:10, twenty minutes before classes would start. Siding on your slippers you placed your practice gear and outside shoes inside your locker. Today would be your first practice back, it was exciting to say the least.

“Hey, we haven't talked in awhile.” A sweet voice turned your attention away from your thoughts. 

“Yoshiki, hi.” You looked the boy over in surprise, the morning fog still leaving your brain.

“So your homeroom teacher this year is Sugawara-sensei huh? He comes to my class after lunch for science. He seems nice, he made some really bad science jokes yesterday when he introduced himself.” Yoshiki laughed as he remembered the not so funny pun. It reminded you both of simpler, less uncomfortable times you both shared so long ago. 

“I wish I could have heard them.” You giggled, mostly with Yoshiki and less at the statement. I felt nice to take in the easy feeling of being together again, even if it was fleeting. “He was pretty straightforward with the homeroom class. Probably because Yua wouldn’t shut up.”You walked with him down the hallway, his pace matching with yours as you talked.

“I could tell you some of them over lunch.” He paused as you reached your classroom door, his foot digging into the tile. “Unless things are still weird between us?” He couldn’t meet your eyes, his heart pounding in his chest. You had rejected him once, could twice be just as bad?

“Sure, that would be great. Since we ruled out the potentially dating option, all that's left is to go back to being friends again.” You let out an out of place laugh, your enthusiasm forced. You felt awkward, your attempt at mending the relationship uncomfortable to your own ears. 

He on the other hand smiled, it seemed to be just the words he was hoping for. He gave you a brief wave before leaving for his own classroom.

He was right, things were still weird between you. But that's what happens when you fall in love for the first time, try to go on a date, and run away from said date leaving him alone, and then proceed to ignore his calls all winter break. The least you could be was give him a lunch period to feel things out.

You made your way into the classroom, greeting a few students before setting your things down at your desk. Yua and Hiroto were already sitting at their desks when you slid into your seat next to them. 

“Good morning F/N-chan.” They greeted, the unity of their tone made you giggle. 

“No coffee this morning?” Hiroto questioned as he looked at your usually occupied hand. 

“I’m gonna try and quit drinking it so much, save some extra money...” You frowned already painfully aware of the lack of caffeination.

“You're like an addict!” Yua laughed, “I give you a week tops before you crash.”

“Thanks for the support!” You chirped, pinching her exposed arm. You shook your head as she hissed at the pain, the morning bell drowning out her cursing.

Sugawara walked in on cue holding a mug of coffee and a black binder. “Good Morning class.” He smiled as he set down the items on his desk.

“You look nice today Sugawara-sensei!”A voice spoke from somewhere behind you. You needn't look behind you, the high pitched tone was easy to pick out. 

“Thank you.” He smoothed out his suit jacket, nodding in appreciation. His eyes scanned the room before landing on you. “L/N-san, will you come up and take roll for me please?” He gave you a sweet smile, wiggling the board your way. 

“Yes sensei.” You moved your chair back and made your way up to the front of the room. He stood on the other side of his desk, reaching across to take the clipboard and pen from his hands.

“This one is you.” He pointed to your name and smiled sweetly,“Don’t forget this time ok?”

 The class laughed at his teasing remark as you slid the pen out of his hand.

“Yes, sensei.” You mocked him in your head as you walked to the middle of the room looking around the class as you checked off the names. “Maybe if you didn’t walk into class trying to fluster me I wouldn’t have such a hard time functioning.” You finished and handed the board back to him, giving him a forced smile.

“Thank you, you can go sit down now.” He glanced up from his syllabus before sliding it out of your hand. 

Taking your seat again he began the homeroom meeting for the day. It was the same information, just saying what events the school had going on, what the menu was for the day, and if any school deadlines were coming up. Then he broke the class up for independent study as he pulled students to the front for their daily college discussion. Next week this would become a weekly discussion as homeroom would turn into a study hall period for students to get help on school work. 

You were waiting for your turn as the bell rang signaling for the classroom switches. You were a bit sad that you had been the only one left out for the day's discussions, maybe more so that you couldn’t talk to Sugawara. 

Everyone waved a goodbye to Sugawara as he exited the classroom and your next teacher settled into the next subject. Class passed by as usual, your attention fading in and out as you watched out the window. The grey storm clouds had started to roll in as the sky darkened. The sun had permanently tucked behind the clouds around noon, the chill of threatening rain permeating the window next to you.

Before long the bell rang and students made for the cafeteria. As the crowd dispersed, Yoshiki peaked his head in at you and your group of friends. 

“Hey, are you eating in here today?” He made his way over to your desk holding his own bento box. 

“Yeah, you can stay with us if you want.” You beamed as he pulled a chair over to your desk and set his lunch down. It was cutely wrapped, the cloth around it was bordered with brightly colored dinosaurs, as he opened it so were most of the food wrappers. 

“It’s my little brother's box I promise, he took my lunch this morning when he left.His cheeks tinted pink as he shook his head back and forth. He placed both hands over the box, covering it from view.

Giggling you placed a hand over his “It’s ok, dinosaurs are pretty cool.” He relaxed into his seat as you opened your own box. 

“Oh Sugawara-sensei, do you need the classroom?” Hiroto asked as Sugawara walked over to his office door.

“No.You're fine to stay here, I have a few papers to grade in my office.’’ He paused on you, looking between you and Yoshiki.”L/N-san i’m sorry I missed you for our council time.’’ He rested his hand on the doorknob, squeezing it slightly. 

“It’s ok Sugawara- sensei! The class is so big, I don’t know how you could make enough time for all of us in one day.” You waved your hand at the notion and laughed, he had no reason to feel bad. You had all year to college prep, one day wouldn’t set you back.

“I’m free after school if you want to wait in my office? We can run down your requirements before volleyball practice.” He shifted on his feet slightly, Yoshiki’s gaze heavy on him.

You agreed to the offer, thanking him as he disappeared into his office.

“Two days in a row, look at you!” Yua laughed as she slapped your back causing you to choke on your food. 

“Yua-chan he’s our teacher!” Hiroto whispered aggressively as he handed you his water bottle.

“I know, it's just funny seeing how flustered she gets.” Yua winked at you, as if her flirtatious actions would justify the burning in your throat. 

You passed the lunch period chatting amongst your friends, Yoshiki easing into the conversation as if nothing had ever happened. You were grateful for the new start, happy to have your friend back. As everyone finished their lunches, Yua and Hiroto waved a goodbye. They were on a mission to find the raccoon that lived by the track dumpsters, leftover food in tow. You and Yoshiki were left in the classroom, silence settling around you both.

“So, are you still doing soccer with Hiroto-kun?” You tried to fill the conversational gap, hoping it would disperse the awkward feeling around you two.

 “Yeah, but they pretty much benched me. The new first years are really good.” He laughed, sounding sadder than he had planned.

 You opened your mouth when the office door clicked  open and Sugawara peaked his head out.

“L/N-san come here please.” He waved a hand at you, disappearing back into his office.

You looked between the open door and Yoshiki before standing up. You turned to speak, Yoshiki already packing up his belongings.

He said a hasty goodbye, leaving before you could get a word in.

You watched as he walked out the door, turning back to the open office.

“Yes Sugawara-senpai?” You pushed the door open a little more before stepping into his office. 

It was nicer inside then you had anticipated. He had one large window facing the courtyard, while the other 2 walls adjacent to the door were lined with rows and rows of books. A large dark oak desk sat in the middle of the room, free of clutter and debris. He had pushed a small black sofa under the window, it looked comfy and worn in. Like it held more stories then the actual shelves. But the most notable feature of the room was the abundance of small and large plants placed around the room. Some sat on the windowsill, others were placed between the sections of books on the shelves. The larger plants were tucked into the corners of the room, leaves fanning out over everything nearby. But one particularly pretty pink succulent sat on his desk, perfectly positioned to sit in the ray of sun that shined through the window. It looked like it was basking in the warmth, soaking up all the sun had to offer. 

“Can you do me a favor L/N-san?” Sugawara questioned as your eyes stopped roaming. You landed on his hand, reaching out towards you, grasping something out of sight. 

You reached out and opened your hands,“Of course Sugawara-senpai.” 

He opened his hands to drop a few yen into yours. “I didn’t have time for lunch today, can you go grab me a hot drink from the vending machines by the south gym? You can get yourself something as well if you want. There should be enough money for two.” 

“I may be late for class sensei…” You cupped the warm metal, how long had he been holding the coins? They heated the palm of your hand slightly, melding with your own warmth.

”It’s ok, just come in quiet when you come back.” He sat back down, picking up a red pen.

You nodded and smiled before running off towards the south gym doors. You would hurry, maybe if you ran you would make it back before the bell rang.

“Um, what should I get him?” You scanned over the drink options presented to you.“It is flu season, maybe something that will keep him healthy? But he did say he didn’t eat lunch, what's thick. What if he fails me because I got him something gross.” You were shaking your head back and forth, this was becoming much more tasking then it should have ever been. You pushed the green tea button twice, grateful he was kind enough to give you enough money for something as well. 

The rain was starting to come down, getting heavier by the minute. You took the two hot drinks and ran for the main entrance, hoping the rain wouldn’t soak your cardigan too much before you made it inside. 

It was a short walk back to the classroom, you could hear Sugawara on the other side, he had already started the lesson. Deciding to finish your own green tea in the hallway you emptied the container before heading inside. 

You slid the door open just enough to fit inside, attempting to be quiet enough to not distract the classroom. Eyes were all on you as you closed the door and turned around to face your peers. Breathing stopped as they waited for their sensei to reprimand you for being late.

You walked over to Sugawara and handed him the tea before fishing his remaining change out of your cardigan pocket and rushing back to your desk, eyes on the floor as you sat down.

“Thank you L/N-san.”His smile was sweet and gentle as he turned back to the class. “So this diagram differs from the previous in what way?” He continued on with the lesson as everyone's gaze slowly started to leave you. 

After a few minutes it seemed as if everyone had lost interest in your tardiness, almost everyone. Two pairs of eyes from the back of the room bore holes into the back of your head for the remainder of class, you didn’t have to turn around to know who they belonged to.

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Previous Chapter - Next Chapter

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[kpoptart216]

Promises (oneshot)

Pairing: Jimin x fem!reader

Genre: Angst, fluff if you squint (what’s new)

Synopsis: Being best friends with Jimin was easy. You never doubted your relationship with him even when you both got older. But what happens...when life happens?

You couldn’t really remember the exact date you became friends with Jimin. All you could remember was you sitting down to eat lunch all alone at lunch when a little boy also joined you, claiming he too was alone. And since that young age of 6, you two were joined at the hip. 

You two were as good as they came. Thick as thieves. Peas in a pod. And you didn’t see that changing. 

You remember your mom warning you one night, when she realized how close you both were. 

“You’re probably too young to understand this Y/n, but I just want you to know that some relationships don’t last forever. Things change honey, and I don’t want you to be hurt by that” she said sadly, maybe even reminiscent of her own life. 

And that warning, even though you were just ten, scared you. You knew exactly who she was referring to, and you ran over to Jimin’s house across the street sobbing. 

It was at that age, when you promised that nothing would ever change your friendship. 

And you both put that promise on a pedestal. As the years passed by and you got older, nothing got in the way of your friendship. Not when you moved away to Seoul, not when you got busy with university, and not when Jimin became an idol. 

You became a manager at a tech company at one of the biggest companies in the city. You weren’t really sure how you managed to get there, but you were thankful for the opportunity. As for Jimin, his band seemed to get bigger and bigger everyday and you smiled everytime you saw a billboard with his face on it or an ad on TV featuring him and the boys. 

But just because you were an ordinary person didn’t mean that the world didn’t know who you were. One day when Jungkook was doing a V-live, he walked into the boy’s living room where you and Jimin were having your usual movie night. Before you knew it, your friendship with Jimin was exposed for the world to see. At first it was hard, especially when girls you didn’t even know would through death glares at you and your social media filled with hate comments. 

But you two even managed to make it through that. Jimin had to clarify to his fans that you meant a lot as his best friend and had wished that no one treated you poorly because of it and since then, you had a pretty good relationship with his fans, at least from what you could tell online. 

Was it hard being best friends with an idol? Incredibly. But it was more than worth it. Plus in the process, you gained six more new friends with lots of adventures. 

Of course, you also had some girl friends if only keep yourself sane from all the testosterone you were always surrounded by. Li-ah had been one of your closest friends since you moved to Seoul and she always voiced how lucky you were to be surrounded by big celebrities. You had wanted to introduce her to your friends, but the right time never presented itself. 

“They’re just a group of over grown children sometimes” you joke back. 

“Still.. what I would give to be around someone like BTS” she sighed out loud. “Have you ever had feelings for any of them?” she asks, taking a sip of her beer. You two were out getting drinks at your favorite spot just a block away from your apartment., 

“For those dummies? No way!” You say, taking a big gulp yourself. 

“Ok fine, but not even Jimin? How could you not when you’ve been with him for as long as you have? When he’s just so.. so... perfect?” she asks, genuinely curious. 

“Ok you’re clearly drunk if you think he’s perfect. Li-Ah, he will always be the boy that wet his bed when we were kids” you say giggling. 

“That happened like once and a million years ago! Look at him now!” she says. 

“Trust me, we’re just friends” you say. “Always have been, always will be. Speaking of that dork though, do you want to finally meet them? They’re on break starting tomorrow for like the next two months” you ask. 

That was all it took for her to squeal so loud the entire bar turned to look at her. 

“Yes! YES!” she said clapping her hands. 

Perhaps if you knew how that would decision would change your life, you wouldn’t have even asked. But life wasn’t that simple. 

The boys had invited you over for game night and some drinks which you gladly accepted. You asked to bring Li-ah, and though they were a bit reluctant at first, they agreed. 

You had to talk Li-ah into being calm and not acting like the huge fan-girl she was. If there was anything the boys didn’t need right now, it was having to deal with a fan during their break time. 

And to be honest, you were surprised by how well Li-ah managed to stay calm. It was like she changed completely. When you got to the apartment, she simply smiled and introduced herself to the boys. Was this the same Li-ah you knew?

Some of the boys played video games while the rest of you sat at the table playing some board games and drinking. 

You watched, as Li-ah conversed with the boys, but how her eyes especially sparkled when she was talking to Jimin. And you also didn’t miss the way how his eyes seemed to light up the same way. 

You knew you saw a connection there and you had a small smile on your face as you saw two of your best friends get to know each other. Jimin broke eye contact from Ji-Ah to send you a quick smile before turning back to Ji-ah to give her his attention. 

It wasn’t long after that when Jimin had asked for Ji-ah’s number. You two were having your regular movie night when he randomly sprung the question on you. 

“You want her number? Oh my god, are you going to ask her out?” you ask him. 

“I- I gue- I just want to get to know her a little more?” he says, not really sure. 

“Oh my god you like her!” You say, giggling.

“I don’t know yet! Hey we’re not getting any younger and I’m getting lonely!” He says, defending himself. 

You throw a hand to your chest, faking pain. “When you have me??” you asked. 

“That’s different and you know it!” he says throwing a pillow at you. “You going to help me or not?” he asks again. 

“Of course I will, dork” you say, finally calming down from laughing. “I’ll always be there for you” you say a little slower. 

After sending Jimin Ji-ah’s number, you walk to the kitchen to make some more popcorn and noticed Taehyung standing in the kitchen attempting to make some kind of food over the stove. 

“You know, I didn’t think you’d do it” he said, not looking at you and stirring at the pot. 

“do what?” you ask curiously while getting the popcorn out of the shelf. 

“Give him your friends number. I always thought you two had a thing for eachother” he said nonchalantly. 

“You’re kidding right? We’re best friends” you say while throwing the popcorn into the microwave. 

“So? I see the way you look at him. You might not realize it yourself, but I think you’re in deep for Jimin, Y/n” Taehyung says. 

“I- I’m not” you say. Both you and taehyung don’t miss the slight stutter in your voice. 

“I mean, it’s not my place to meddle. But I want what’s best for the both of you, as always” he says, finally turning towards you. 

“Thank you Tae, really” you say. “I know your hearts at a good place but I’m sure when I say we’re just friends” you say. 

“Ok ok, I won’t bug you about it anymore” he says with a small giggle you’ve learned to love over the years. “Ok try this” he says, finally handing you the spoon that he was stirring with. 

“What is it?” you ask, not really wanting to try whatever it was. 

“I was trying to make chicken soup...” he says. 

“Oh” was the only thing you could muster when you look at the concoction on your spoon that looked slightly like...tar. Despite your instincts to throw the spoon far, far away, you lick it as to not get much into your mouth. 

“I’m going to say this since I too want what’s best for you Taehyung. Get take out and leave the cooking to Jin from now on...” you say, giggling and immediately reaching for water. 

“I knew I shouldn’t have added all that fish sauce..” he says, making you choke on the water. 

“Best for me my ass.. you just tried to kill me!” You say, downing as much water as you could. 

“Ok ok get back to your movie Gorden Ramsey” he says, turning off the stove.

  It has now been almost 3 months since Jimin got Li-ah’s number. A week after he got her number, he asked her out for their first date. 2 more dates after that, he asked her to be his girlfriend, with your blessing of course. And now 2 months later, he was going to tell her he loved her. 

Was it fast? Yes. But was it right in his heart? 100%. 

And during these three months, Taehyung’s words haunted you. Did you have feelings for Jimin? You convinced yourself you didn’t for all those years because you had everything you needed when Jimin was around. But now.. you two didn’t talk nearly as much as you had before. 

His time was now filled with Li-Ah. His time... and his heart. 

The first time he cancelled on you, it didn’t hurt. It wasn’t like he didn’t do it before, considering his schedule. 

But the more and more it happened just so he could hang out with her.. it started to sting. 

What stung the most was when he forget your “anniversary” of friendship that you two had made up as kids. And that was the first time you shed tears for Park Jimin. Little did you know that it wouldn’t be the last. 

In the meantime, you filled your time with the others. The boys still invited you over, even if Jimin wasn’t there. And in that time, Taehyung vowed that he was now your best friend since your actual one was doing a shitty job of proving it. 

“I know I said I wouldn’t bother you about it again, but are you sure you don’t have feelings for him, Y/n? I can tell him not being around is bothering you...” Taehyung asks one night when the rest of the boys had gone to sleep. 

“I’m not sure anymore Taehyung, I’m not sure” you say, beginning to cry again. That was the first night that Taehyung comforted you as you cried. Little did he know it also wouldn’t be the last. 

One morning you woke up to someone calling you first thing in the morning. You reached for your phone, somewhere under your pillows and sheets and immediately sat up when you realized it was Jimin. 

“Hey good morning!” you say, a little too excited. 

“Good morning sleepyhead. Are you busy today? I realized we haven’t had any us time recently and I want to make up for that!” he says, which put a smile on your face a little too quickly. 

“I always have time for you, Jimin” You say, giggling. “I’ll be ready in half an hour, ok?” you say. 

“Sure, I’ll pick you up then. See you then dummy” 

“See you then, dork” you say, hanging up. 

The two of you spent the entire day doing all the things you loved doing- eating, people watching, shopping, and going to the arcade. It was the most fun you had in the longest time and you realized just how much you missed him, 

“I’m sorry I haven’t been around recently” Jimin says on the way to drop you off. 

“It’s ok. You know I understand” You say. 

“I would never break our promise, you know that right?” He asks. And that’s all it took for your heart to swell. 

“Of course I do. I wouldn’t either” You say, smiling. 

you were in love with your best friend. 

Though Jimin had said he’d make time for you, not much really changed. Li-ah still took up most of his time, not that you could blame her. But it really took a toll on your feelings. You were feeling worse and worse as each day passed and you just missed him. It didn’t help when you realized your feelings for him and now you were suffering even more than before. 

But life moved on. Taehyung had stopped by more and more after you  confessed your feelings for Jimin to him. You didn’t mean to, you were drunk and a mess, but it happened nontheless. It was later that night when you passed out that he silently confessed his feelings for you too. 

Taehyung didn’t know himself when he caught feelings for you. But it made him understand something- because you probably didn’t know when you fell for Jimin either. It was hard, seeing the girl you like pine over your best friend. He didn’t know what hurt more- the fact that you didn’t know about Taehyung’s suffering or that Jimin didn’t know about yours. It hurt to see you in pain, so for now Taehyung put his feelings aside. For when the time is right he kept repeating to himself. 

One day, Taehyung texted you out of the blue for an impromptu movie night. You sighed, not knowing whether or not to indulge in a movie night when it was clearly your thing with Jimin, but then again you couldn’t remember the last time you had one. 

You made your way over to the dorm sluggishly, not having the energy and excitement as you once had when visiting the dorms. You let Taehyung know you were here when you got to the lobby through text and he had opened the door for you before you even had the chance to knock. 

“Hey there squirt” he said with such a warm smile. 

“We’re the same age why do you even call me that” you giggle. 

“Because...you’re a squirt. My squirt” he says as if it common sense. 

As you entered the dorm, most of the lights were out, confusing you. That is, till you laid eyes in the living room where two figures were illuminated sitting on the couch due to the light from the TV. There sat Jimin and Li-ah, cuddling and having a movie night. 

Now, you had never seen the alone together. You were respectful of their space and never tried to barge into to either of their time unless invited...which was never. So this? This stung. You could feel your heart tighten, as all your feelings overwhelmed you. 

“Oh hey Y/n!” Jimin said, finally noticing you. 

 “Hey Jimin.. Hey Li-ah” you say, acknowledging the girl who took away the most important person away from you. You knew that was unreasonable. It’s not like she stole him since those two genuinely hit it off. But still... you wished that was you laying on his chest instead of her.  

“Hey” she simply said. Li-ah was a smart girl, or intuitive rather. She knew she didn’t trust you when you said you had no feelings for Jimin. She knew before you did of your own feelings for your best friend. So she did what she thought was the most reasonable thing in her book- she avoided you. 

She didn’t call you much or text you after getting together with Jimin. You thought it was because she was busy with her new relationship but it was actually because she didn’t want you around Jimin in case you had suddenly realized your feelings for him. Or worse- he might realize he has feelings for you. 

“What are you doing here?” Jimin asked, making you feel small for some reason. 

“Oh I invited her over. We’re just going to watch a movie or something in my room. Jungkook was bored” Taehyung said, silently hoping Jungkook found something better to do.

“Oh, ok have fun!” Jimin said, turning back to the movie. For some reason, that broke a tiny piece of your heart off. Sure, it might seem dramatic but Movie night was held... sacred by you and Jimin... or so you thought. SInce you were kids, you only watched movies with him and vice versa. You didn’t let anyone join your movie nights and took weeks or even months of pleading before he allowed a few of the members join during your movie nights. 

You pushed your thoughts aside, telling yourself you were just being dramatic, that it was no big deal. You smiled, even though they probably couldn’t see in the dark, and allowed Taehyung to lead you to his room. 

He put on some movie, with Jungkook joining a few minutes later much to his dismay, and you watched the movie in silence. It was a comedy, a genre all three of you enjoyed, and yet your laugh wasn’t as loud as it used to be. This didn’t go unnoticed by him, and so you completely missed when his laugh wasn’t as loud too. 

Jungkook.... well he was just oblivious and continued to watch the movie. 

If there was anything that you knew, it was that life moved on. See, you thought that your friendship was as strong as steel. Nothing could break it or cause you and Jimin to drift away. Not moving away as kids, not university, not even him being in one of the biggest bands in the world. No, nothing could. Not even Li-ah. 

But what you weren’t expecting was... your health. 

Cancer. 

You knew, you weren’t in the best condition recently, but you blamed it on heartbreak. You blamed any discomfort on your heartbreak until you had enough of feeling down. You went to the doctor for a yearly checkup when your doctor felt a slight bump on the base of your neck. It was small, she said. You didn’t even notice it yourself. 

Soon after, a biopsy was performed, and you didn’t tell anyone- not your family, not your friends, and especially not Jimin. Why worry before you have to worry, right?

But the agony of waiting was getting to you. It would take about another 3 days before you had the result, and you couldn’t stop thinking about it. It was funny, you thought. At least now you had something to take your mind off of Jimin. 

So, what better way than to pass time with movies? You had invited Taehyung over the next night for a full day movie marathon, silently thanking the stars that the boys were on break and that you could spend this much time with him. Taehyung on the other had almost jumped for joy when he saw your text. 

You forced yourself to place 100% of your focus on the movies to distract yourself from the intenal clock you had set for tomorrow’s call from the doctor. What you weren’t expecting though, was that the call would come early. 

In the middle of The Sound of Music (whcih Taehyung had picked out), when the Von Trapp children were singing one of Taehyung’s favorite songs, you saw your phone light up with the doctor’s office name. 

You quickly grabbed the phone and went to the other corner of your living room, which in hind sight you should have gone somewhere more private. But the doctor confirmed what you were dreading, yet already knew in the back of your head. You had cancer. 

You dropped the phone after you managed to hang up, and dropped to your knees sobbing. Taehyung was by your side the next instant, and when you broke the news to him between your sobs, he too cried with you that night. 

It took a few hours for you to calm down, at least to a point where you could think a little bit more rationally. “You can’t tell him” you say, first. 

Taehyung turned to you in shock. How could you think of him at a time like this. “Y/n...” he said. 

“No. I don’t want him to know” you say firmly. “Listen Tae, I know, it sounds bad. But I’m not going to die ok? There’s a 97% survival rate if I go through treatment now since it’s at such a early stage. At least, that’s what the doctor explained over the phone. They caught it early, I’m so glad. I’ll be ok” you say. 

“But you need him by your side. You need your best friend through this” he pleads. He knew then, that he could never take over Jimin’s place in your heart. 

“I need him to not worry, ok? I’m already sad that you had to find out, I wasn’t supposed to get the call till tomorrow. But please, I’m begging you, don’t tell him” you say, pleading with Taehyung. 

“If thats what you truly wish..” Taehyung says, wrapping you in his arms for a tight hug. He never wanted to let go. 

Just because the doctors caught the cancer early didn’t mean that treatment was going to be a breeze. It was still intense. Your doctor laid out a six month treatment plan for you and so far, it seemd very doable. But he warned you of how draining it could be. You had to come in once every 2 weeks for chemo, so you were determined to not let this derail your life. 

The only people you told were the people who absolutely had to know- your work and your family. They were so supportive, with your mom even offering to move in with you for the time being. While you were so tempted, you decided that her life too, was to move on as it should. 

During this time, Jimin had texted you once, asking if you wanted to catch up over dinner. You had to say no, because treatment was that night. 

The next time he offered, you felt too sick after treatment to even get out of bed. 

What really took it over the top though was when you felt too sick when it was Jimin’s birthday. He texted you, saying you better be there since he hadn’t seen you in so long, and you promised you’d be there. But when the day came, you just couldn’t. It was like your body hated you and decided to give up on one of the most important day of the year. But the symptoms from chemo was getting to you especially bad that day, and you plopped onto bed, letting Taehyung know that you couldn’t make it. 

You fell asleep before you got his response. 

Taehyung saw your message late in the afternoon, when everyone was beginning to get ready for the party. He texted you, asking if you were ok, to which you would usually respond with a sarcastic comment. 

But hours passed and he hadn’t heard from you. 

Jimin on the other hand was furious when Taehyung said you couldn’t make it. Taehyung had a pretty stupid excuse, saying you suddenly had a work emergency. Why couldn’t you just call and tell him yourself? why the hell didn’t you want to see him? What was so bad that you couldn’t make it to his birthday?

Jimin’s mood was a little down for the party, but he soon started to enjoy the party and forget the dull pain from you not coming. Until, he saw his other best friend, leave the party too. He could tell Taehyung seemed out of it, he kept checking his phone. 

But then, all of a sudden, he just left after Jimin cut a cake that was too big. 

Taehyung still hadn’t heard from you and decided to rush over to your place, in case something had happened. He beat himself up for not leaving sooner. 

He pounded on your door, silently praying for you to open the door. Thankfully, you did open the door, although much slower than he would have liked. 

“Thank god you’re ok, why didn’t you answer your phone?” He scolded, embracing you immediately. 

“I’m sorry Tae... I fell asleep, I was so tired” you say, slowly. 

“I’m just glad you’re ok...”

The next day after the party, Jimin woke up with Li-ah sleeping sound asleep next to him. He smiled, getting out of bed only to be met with Hoseok standing outside in the kitchen making some coffee of his own.

“Wow, last night was pretty crazy Hyung, my head hurts like crazy” said Jimin, grabbing a cup from the shelf. 

“Don’t talk so loud...” Hoseok said, swatting the younger one away. 

“Is everyone still sleeping?” Jimin asked, a little quieter. 

“Jungkook went to work out. He said after eating everything last night he really looked like a rabbit. I think Tae is at Y/n’s. I haven’t seen him since last night. What’s up with those two, are they a thing now?” Hoseok asks, plopping himself down on the chair. 

“Taehyung... is with Y/n? He left the party to go to see Y/n?” Jimin asks, not realizing he said it out loud. 

“Oh, I don’t know. I just know he didn’t come back last night. And he sent a snap this morning from what I assumed was her place...” hoseok said, missing the way Jimin’s face immediately turned red from anger. 

Just then, the door opened the Taehyung walked through the door, looking tired himself. He was still in the clothes from the party, only sparking more doubt within his members. 

“You seemed to have a fun night” Hoseok winked. 

“Where did you run off to?” Jimin sneered. 

“I’m going to go sleep” Taehyung said simply. 

“I asked you a question” Jimin said, more forcefully. 

“And as you can see, I ignored it” Taehyung said, glaring at the boy before slamming the door shut to his own room.

It didn’t take much longer after that before Jimin changed and rushed out of the dorm in pure anger. 

You heard someone pounding on the door again, and you assumed it was Taehyung again. Had he forgotten something? Before even thinking you open the door. “Tae, did you fo-” but you were cut off when Jimin walked right it, pushing your shoulder harshly while passing by. You rubbed at your shoulder in shock, but also in pain from your sore body. 

“You want to explain to me what the hell is going on?” Jimin asked, finally turning to you. If only he wasn’t so mad, he would have seen all the changes in you. 

“Hi to you to..” you say, trying to lighten the mood. 

“Really? What the fuck Y/n?” Jimin says, panting from anger. “Where the hell have you been?” he says.

“I’ve been busy, Chim...” you say, knowing it sounded stupid the second it left your lips. 

“really? Busy? Too busy for come see me? Too busy on my fucking birthday? Is that all that’s left for us now?” he asks. 

“I- I wanted to be there Chim, you have to know that, right?” you asked slowly. You were still rubbing at your shoulder, knowing you were going to bruise easily. 

“That’s bullshit and you know it Y/n. You wanted to be there? Then you could have been. You were busy? Don’t fucking lie! You had Taehyung over! Are you two together? Are you both fucking, is that what this is?” Jimin sneers. 

“No, Jimin you don’t understand!” You say, not liking where this was going one bit. 

“I don’t? Then please enlighten me. What happened to not breaking our promise, huh?” Jimin asked, getting angrier by the second. You hated when he got mad, especially at you, but this was the worst you’ve ever seen it. 

“I- I-” You stutter. 

“You don’t even have an excuse! You know what, if you don’t want to try, then neither do I. Just know, I’m not the one who broke the promise, It. Was. You.” Jimin says before making his way back out of your apartment. 

“Jimin please..” You whimper. 

“save it” Jimin says, slamming the door shut. 

Jimin pulled his mask up before entering the garage to your apartment. He knew probably no one would be there, but still he didn’t want to take a chance. As soon as he reached the car though, he saw a familiar figure pull up just a few spaces down. Out popped Taehyung, with a bag with what he assumed was food. 

“Back for seconds?” Jimin asked, sarcasm dripping with each word like venom. 

“What are you doing here?” Taehyung asked, shocked. He had promised you he’d be back as soon as he showered and grabbed some food. 

“Why do you care? Oh that’s right, I forgot you two don’t care about anyone else but yourselves. Have fun with her, see if I care” Jimin says as he makes the final steps to his car. Just as he’s about to open his car door, he’s turned around and shoved into his own car. 

“What the hell did you say to her” Taehyung asked. Jimin gulped for a second, never seeing his friend so angry at him before. But in that moment, Jimin was just as angry as he was. 

“You know, you two deserve eachother. I can’t believe the two of you” Jimin says, pushing Taehyung off of him and stared him down. Taehyung simply shook his head and jolted to the elevator, looking panicked. 

Jimin scoffed, finally getting into this car and driving off. He knew he probably shouldn’t be driving in this stage, so he pulled over in the very next street. trying to calm himself down. Thankfully, he had tinted windows and he could sit there in peace. Or at least try to.

After a couple of minutes of just sitting there, Li-ah called. “Hey babe, where are you?” she asked. 

“Oh.. I just came out to get some food. You called just in time, what do you want babe?” he asked, nonchalantly as if he didn’t just have a big fight with both you and Taehyung. 

“Hm.. can you get me that avocado toast from that one place we go to?” she asked. As she was talking, he could hear sirens getting closer and closer, until they stopped. 

“You said avocado toast? Sorry, I can’t really hear with the sirents. but sure babe, I’ll see you in a bit” Jimin says, hanging up. He feels his pocked for his wallet, only to find nothing. He swore he brought it, he always did. He did a quick search of his car, only to find nothing. Maybe it fell out when Taehyung had pushed him? Sighing, Jimin turned the car back around to the garage of your apartment complex. 

Luckily, the spot he was in was still open and his wallet in fact had fallen out when Jimin stepped out. “Stupid Taehyung” he muttered. 

Jimin was about to step back into the car when he saw the ambulance parked by the entrance to your apartment. There was a paramedic standing by the elevator and Jimin watched on with curiousity. 

He didn’t know why he stayed, what pulled him to stay there when he should have been on his way to get some stupid toast, but when the elevator doors opened the the gurney had come out, it was as if time stopped. 

His legs took over before his mind processed what he had saw. Before he knew it, he was already at your side, laying unconscious on top of the gurney, with Taehyung on the other side looking scared and panicked. 

“y/n.. Y/n.. what happened?” Jimin said, finally, helping the paramedics get the gurney through the door. 

“Sir, i’m going to need you to step aside please” the paramedic said, trying to get you to the hospital soon. “Mr. Kim, will you be riding with us?” the same paramedic asked as he turned to Taehyung. 

“Yes of course” Taehyung said. 

“Taehyung what happened, please” Jimin pleased. “What happened to her? Is..is it because of me?” Jimin asked, tears forming in his eyes at the sight of you laying there. 

“YES” Taehyung yelled. “YOU ARE SO FULL OF IT THAT YOU COULDN’T EVEN SEE YOUR SO CALLED BEST FRIEND SUFFER THIS WHOLE TIME. NOT WHEN SHE SO CLEARLY HAD FEELINGS FOR YOU. AND NOT NOW WHEN SHES SICK WITH CANCER” Taehyung yelled before pushing Jimin away getting into the ambulance and closing the door shut. 

Jimin stood there, watching as the ambulance pulled out of the garage, absolutely speechless. Breathless. 

A/N: do y’all even remember who I am omg. I’m so sorry for not posting for so long, and I’m even more sorry that I didn’t post one of the other parts of the series first. But I just felt like writing this. Let me know if know if you want one with Jimin’s POV and an ending to this. If not, I’m just going to leave it at this... :D 

[ericsonclan]

Rainy Day at the Diner

Summary: Ericson's Diner experiences a rainy day where all of the staff gets stormed in and has an impromptu sleepover.

Read on A03:

It was raining hard that morning at Ericson’s Diner.

Louis ran inside out of the rain, a sopping wet newspaper doing little to protect him. “It’s raining!”

“A brilliant discovery as always, Louis,” Prisha noted dryly from the bar.

“Morning, Lou,” Clementine said, coming over and patting his damp dreadlocks. “You don’t own an umbrella?”

“I do, but I lent it to Violet once and she never gave it back. It looks like you had one though,”

Clem nodded. “Yep. Prisha and I were talking a while back and she mentioned that she always kept a spare umbrella in her trunk in case she ever got caught out in the rain. I took her advice and did the same. The spare’s still in my trunk if you want it,”

“Aaw, babe, that’s sweet to offer,” Louis said, giving her a quick peck on the cheek. “You’re always looking out for me. I think I’ll be good though. Not planning to go out anymore with it pouring like that. Think I’ll text whoever hasn’t come in yet and tell them not to bother. You’d have to be crazy to keep on driving in weather like this,”

As soon as the words had finished leaving his mouth, the front door to Ericson slammed open. Violet strode in, clothed in a poncho she’d clearly constructed from trash bags. “made it for my shift,”

“Vi, are you alright?” Prisha exclaimed, rushing forward to check on her girlfriend. “What in God’s name are you wearing?”

“Made it myself,” Violet said with a small smile, doing a 360 to show off the full ensemble.

“What happened to the umbrella I lent you?” Louis asked, his nose scrunching in apprehension.

Violet shrugged. “Lost it,”

Louis rolled his eyes. “Once this storm has blown over, you and I are going umbrella shopping. And we’re each buying like ten extras,”

“Nah. I think my trash poncho works just fine,” Violet strode over to the bar, hopping up onto one of the stools. She immediately slid off the seat and plopped onto the floor. “Actually, maybe you’re right,”

The kitchen doors opened and Ruby walked out, Omar close behind her. “Goodness me, it’s ragin’ out there! Marlon just dropped by with a shipment. We told him to come wait inside for the rain to calm down before trying to drive anywhere else,”

“Mitch is here too,” Prisha added. “He came in early to fix that light that blew out in the staff room. Brody’s in there helping him,”

“So the people we have here…” Louis said, counting on his fingers, “Are me, Clem, Vi, Prisha, Ruby, Omar, Marlon, Mitch and Brody?”

“Oh, Aasim’s here too,” Ruby answered. “He dropped by to see me, but ended up staying when the weather got so bad,”

“Alright, here’s what we’re going to do,” Louis said to the group. “I’ll text everyone who’s not here yet and tell them to take the day off. We change the sign in the window to closed and then…” he patted against the nearby wall for a drumroll. “We throw the best slumber party ever! Who’s in?”

Suddenly, a large branch came flying against one of the nearby windows, smacking against it loudly as thunder boomed. They all jumped in fright.

“Tiny change of plans,” Louis said, raising a finger. “First we storm proof the restaurant, then we throw the best slumber party ever!”

They all set out to their given tasks. Mitch came out to the front and directed everyone in how to reinforce the windows and doors to make sure nothing broke and no water got inside. Ruby and Omar made food for everybody. Clementine got ahold of her father and confirmed that A.J. was safe. He would be having a sleepover of his own with Willy and Tenn as their school had gone on lockdown due to the storm conditions.

Once everything was safe and secured, they sat down at the booths and tables in the dining area, playing games and eating snacks. Louis had his trusty pack of cards on him, and the staff room was also stocked with several board games they’d accumulated from staff donations and thrifting adventures. Violet broke out her blanket stash that she kept at the restaurant for “emergencies”. It turned out the diner made a pretty cozy haven away from all the worries and cares of the stormy world outside.

There were a few phone calls that came through on the main line. It was mind-blowing that there were people out there who thought that since they couldn’t make it out to get food, delivery options were still open to them. When Louis’ explanations that no, they didn’t deliver in the first place, and certainly not in these conditions fell on deaf ears, Violet was more than happy to chew out the delusional callers before wishing them a less than pleasant day. Eventually the phone stopped ringing as the phone lines had gone down, a fact that normally would have been distressing, but the blissful quiet was enjoyed by all.

By noon the rain was still pouring. The forecasts had said to expect rain into the night, so this was no surprise. Ruby and Omar decided that personalized pizzas were the way to go for lunch. Everyone was able to make theirs just as they liked and mercilessly tease each others’ topping choices. Once everyone’s pizzas were ready, they settled down to watch a movie on Louis’ old laptop that he kept in the manager’s office. After much heated debate, they settled on Toy Story, a perennial classic in everyone’s eyes. They all snuggled up together with their blankets and bags of rice, potatoes and other produce for pillows, commenting throughout the movie on what their favorite parts had been growing up and applauding every time Woody, Buzz or the rest of the toy crew had a victory.

They decided to continue the trend of comfort food into the evening, working together to make an enormous pot of mac’n’cheese. The power cut out shortly afterwards, so there were several minutes of scrambling around in the dark looking for alternate light sources. Using the flashlights on their phones, they made their way over to the bar where Prisha had a supply of candles that they occasionally used on holidays like Valentine’s Day and during Christmas to brighten things up. Candles were placed at every table and booth and all along the bar, casting the restaurant in a warm, dreamy glow. They ate their mac’n’cheese at the bar, enjoying a few rounds of drinks as they played a lively round of truth or dare. Laughter filled the restaurant as the evening winded down.

When it was time to sleep, there was a short debate on how they should do things. At first it was suggested by Aasim that for propriety’s sake they should probably stick to men and women sleeping separately.

“Screw propriety,” Violet muttered. “Who are we trying to impress? I say we all do whatever we want,”

Louis wrapped his arms around Clementine from behind, his face nuzzled against her ear. “I wouldn’t mind snuggling up with Clem tonight,”

Clementine giggled. “Funny, I was about to make a similar suggestion,”

“Then we pair off,” Prisha said matter-of-factly. “The only problem with that is it leaves Brody alone with Omar, Mitch and Marlon,”

“Actually…” Brody jumped in, “Mitch and I have sorta been seeing each other for the past few months. We didn’t want to say anything till we were really sure it was official, but.. yeah,”

Mitch looked surprised for a second before a large grin spread across his face. “Fuck yeah! Making it official!” He and Brody high fived before Mitch wrapped his arm protectively around her waist. The group applauded them happily, congratulations being given all around.

Louis looked to Omar and Marlon. “Guess that makes you two cuddle buddies!”

“Sounds fine with me,” Marlon answered, warmly placing a hand on Omar’s shoulder. Omar returned the gesture, nodding placidly.

Thus the sleeping arrangements were set. They pushed the center tables back, clearing an area large enough for all of them. Candles were blown out and people used their phones for light as they settled down to sleep. Louis offered his arm to Clementine as a cushion in place of the rice sack. Prisha and Violet curled up in each other’s arms, forming a snug cocoon. Ruby and Aasim each had their own sack of flour to rest their heads on as they lay side by side. Brody and Mitch had moved a bit father from the group, a table standing between them and the others. Occasionally giggles would erupt from the two that everyone hoped was just early relationship jitters. Marlon and Omar settled down with their backs touching, quickly falling asleep. There were whispers amongst some of the pairs as they wound down from the events of the day. Eventually they all drifted off into peaceful slumber, content in the warmth of each other and the pleasant atmosphere of the diner. It had truly been a perfect sleepover, a wonderful way to be stuck inside on this very rainy day.

Series this work belongs to:

[nhlarchived]

NYC ~ Mathew Barzal

Chapter Three

Ch. One ~ Ch. Two ~ Ch. Three ~ Ch. Four ~ Ch. Five

Word Count: 2,573

Warnings: Mature Language

Wattpad

As if going to school wasn’t boring enough on its own, Mother Nature decided to give us a rainstorm today. Thankfully the MTA station was not only directly in front of my apartment building, but also outside of where my class was being held for the day. Allowing me to avoid being completely drenched from the torrential downpour. 

I didn’t mind the forecast too bad, I actually love storms. However, I enjoy them the most while I’m at home watching from the comfort of my own bed, using it as white noise to take a nap. Yet here I sit in my uncomfortable plastic seat watching droplets race each other down the glass window while a professor fifty feet away speaks gibberish into a microphone. 

My class this morning was of course, one of my least favorites. Not that I hated it due to being difficult, only because I knew practically everything already and I could teach the class better than the professor himself. So, for entertainment before I passed out from pure boredom, I decided to occupy myself by texting Mathew after his morning practice had ended. 

Similar to how he is in person, he was great with holding a conversation. In fact, I almost forgot I was even in class. He decided to explain more in depth on his life back home in Vancouver, telling me about his parents, sister and even about their dogs that he’s apparently terrified of. I was so invested in the stories he was telling that as he was confessing some embarrassing ones, I accidentally let out a giggle that I had to quickly cover with a fake cough to not disrupt the class. Although I couldn’t trick the people closely surrounding me as I had a permanent smile plastered on my face that my hand couldn’t even hide. 

As much as I could through text, I made my potential feelings towards him obvious as he did the same for I, but after last night I couldn’t help but worry if this would work out or not. The money from nannying was the only thing covering my student loans and necessities. I was living on my own in one of the most expensive cities as a full time student. I’m fortunate enough that my distant family owned my current apartment and allowed me to reside there as long as I maintained at the very least a 3.8 GPA. However the cost of my loans, food, transportation, miscellaneous bills and school supplies were a lot to handle and nannying was the only thing flexible enough for my schedule. 

Class finally released and I made my way back to the subway with only getting slightly wet from the rain. It was torturous underground as the fahrenheit was roughly around 50° and the humidity still found a way to crawl under my skin. Once on the train I took a corner seat next to the exit while a business man in a suit relaxed on my right. 

My phone vibrated which I had assumed was Mathew, but to my surprise Rebecca’s name had appeared at the top of the screen accompanied by a glowing ‘slide to answer’ bar across the bottom. My heart started pounding through my chest wondering if Dennis had mentioned the event from last night. My mind imagining the worst case scenario of her telling me I can’t talk to him anymore or even worse, having them fire me. 

“Hello?” I spoke nervously into the line after subconsciously sliding the white call circle with my thumb. 

“Cassie! I️ hope you’re doing well!” She responded excitedly. I released an agonizing breath once hearing the positive tone she was using. She’s not the type to be passive, she’s one of those people where if she was upset or disappointed, she would let it be known. 

“I’m pretty good, how are you?” I answered sweetly, now beginning to question why she would be calling mid-day like this. 

“I’m wonderful, and I️ would be even better if you could do me a huuuge favor.” She suggested. Nine times out of ten this meant she needed me to babysit with short notice. However, the unusual part was she normally texts me instead of calling.

“Yeah of course, anything for you guys!” I replied joyfully. I could definitely use the extra money with the holidays slowly creeping in. Plus, I couldn’t help but still be curious if Dennis had spilled the beans yet or not, and the only way to find out was to see them face to face. 

“Can you sit the kids tonight? Dennis and I️ want to have a little date night before the season starts. Mat said he’s going out with a friend but I trust you more anyway. I’m sure you probably have plans tonight but I️ figured it was worth a shot.” She explained. 

‘Mat said he’s going out with a friend.’ 

Immediately I knew that I was ‘the friend’ since we had planned for him to come check out my lonely apartment tonight. I was bummed that I would have to cancel, but my job and income will always come first. I’m sure Mathew would understand, and if he didn’t then that would be enough verification for me to end whatever relationship we have anyway. 

“No problem at all, I’ll be there!” I confirmed enthusiastically, now exiting the train that was at my stop. I covered my vacant ear with my index finger to better my hearing as I have now joined the exorbitant amount of people on the staircase back to ground level. 

“Oh my gosh you are literally the best. Be here by six?” She requested. I looked down at my watch and the hands sat on the twelve and two. This gave me plenty of time to get ready before catching the LIRR in time to make it there. 

“I’ll see you then.” I confirmed before we said our goodbyes and hung up the phone. 

Once returning to the comfort of my warm and dry apartment, I opened a text message to send to Mathew explaining the cancellation of our plans for the night. 

Cassandra: “I’m sincerely sorry I️ have to cancel tonight. Rebecca needs me to watch the kids so they can go on a date. I️ figured it’s the least I️ could do after upsetting Dennis last night.” 

I pressed the send button and a little pit in my stomach started to grow. I was disappointed. I was highly anticipating hanging with him and getting to know him on a more personable level. But maybe being alone at my apartment was too quick at the moment anyway. I guess having a simple restaurant date first wouldn’t hurt. 

It wasn’t long before I felt a vibration from the device in my hand. His name playing across the screen directly underneath the time. I wasted no time before entering my passcode and revealing the message. 

Mathew: “Don’t worry about it I️ understand. Besides, now that I’m not going anywhere tonight, that means we get to watch the kids together ;)” 

As if Dennis wasn’t skeptical enough, there was no way he was going to be enthusiastic about the two of us alone with the kids. Although, this could be the perfect opportunity to prove to him that I can maintain self control. Let’s just hope it’s the second one. 

It was now a quarter till six and of course, it was still raining. I quickly sprinted to the porch where I could be protected from the precipitation. I rang the bell and it was only a matter of seconds before Rebecca opened the door, completely taking my breath away with her appearance. Wherever Dennis was planning on taking her tonight was clearly going to be elegant. 

Once entering into the foyer the three kids, already dressed in their pajamas, ran up and attached to my legs. Giggles echoing through the large house as I tried to keep my balance. It warms my heart every time they do this. It doesn’t matter how much time we spend together or the short amount of time from when I last saw them. I was basically just an older sibling to them. Even the parents watched in awe as they saw the genuine joy pour out of their children.

“Alright, alright. We know you’re excited but try not to break her legs.” Rebecca recommended causing them to ease off my legs that way I could stand normal again. Dennis then appeared from the hallway handing Rebecca her purse. Nervous, I felt my body begin to sweat as I was still unsure of where we stood. 

“Since it’s raining, no going outside. Also, there may be no school tomorrow, but you still have to be in bed by eight. Deal?” Dennis acknowledged the kids. They all nodded their heads before running off to the game room down the hall, instructing me to follow them. Before I went with them I turned to Rebecca as she usually has some sort of instructions to give me for the night. 

“They’ve already eaten so no need to feed them tonight. If they start asking for ice cream, no problem, just make sure it’s before seven. You pretty much know the deal.” She explained while grabbing her umbrella and walking into the garage, entering their car. I nodded my head in agreement.

“Cassandra” I heard Dennis say walking up from behind me, and suddenly I wanted nothing more than to melt through the floor and disappear. “Just to let you know, Mat isn’t going out tonight anymore so he’ll be home. I️ instructed him to stay downstairs so he shouldn’t bother you guys.” He continued. 

I could feel my whole body freeze when he spoke Mat’s name. I was waiting for him to say something along the lines of “If I see you with him again, we’re firing you.”, but luckily that didn’t happen. 

“We should be home by midnight. If it gets too late leave Mat here with the kids and you can go home. No need to stay overnight.” He finished before entering the driver’s side of the car. I shined them a smile and waved goodbye as they left and finally I could now relax knowing Dennis is going to let this slide. 

I played board games with the kids for what felt like hours but was only forty-five minutes. I allowed them to win every time because, well they’re kids, but it made this quite boring for me. However, right before seven o’clock rolled by, they began begging for ice cream just like Rebecca had foreseen. 

I grabbed each of them a bowl, filling it with their desired flavors before they took off to eat in the living room while watching television. I remained in the kitchen, keeping an eye on them over the half wall, and began to rinse off the ice cream scoop before placing it in the dishwasher. 

I grabbed a paper towel to dry my hands off when I felt the presence of fingertips wrapping around my waist. I quickly turned around in panic not sure of who it could be, but then I was met with a smirk that I’ve grown very fond of. A long sigh of relief escaped my mouth after seeing Mathew. My muscles relaxed and my hands that were up in surrender fell onto his chest. I could feel him giggling underneath my fingertips. 

“Oh I’m sorry, did I scare you?” He teased, with his arms still around my waist as he pulled me closer to him. Between his toned muscles under my palms and the way his features crinkled in laugher, I was lost in a daze. I never thought I would see the day where I would be this attracted to someone. Especially someone I had just met. 

Suddenly, a loud noise from the television reminded me of the kids in the next room. I quickly pushed him off of me looking towards the children to make sure they didn’t see anything that had just happened. 

“You can’t do this around the kids.” I whispered anxiously to Mat.  

“I️ can’t hug you? Come on it’s not like we’re sticking our tongues down each other’s throats.” He instigated. I rolled my eyes and ignored his comment. Moving out of his touch and beginning to tidy up the kitchen once again. 

It wasn’t long before his hands found their way around my waist once again. This time feeling his entire body against my back, and his breath near my ear. My heart stopped.

“But I mean, we totally could if you wanted to.” He whispered in my ear erupting goosebumps down my arms. Of course I wanted to. I wanted nothing more at the moment, but this was not the time and place. It took everything out of my to pull from his touch. I lightly tapped my elbow onto his torso behind me before stepping out of his arms. I didn’t want to make an actual impact, just enough that he got the point. I turned around and sent him a dismayed glare. 

“I️ was joking! Partially.” He continued as I tried my hardest to fight back a smile. 

“Dennis made it clear he didn’t want you around us tonight. The last thing I️ need is the kids telling him we were hugging in the kitchen.” I explained, turning Mathew around and playfully pushing his back towards the stairs that lead to the basement. 

“Oh no, not hugging. Only married people do that.” Mat snidely joked. I scuffed behind him as I struggled with my attempt to push him towards the door. I got him halfway there before he decided to bend his knees and lay all of his weight onto my arms, his head falling to my shoulder.

“Oh no, my knees gave out. Looks like you’re going to have to carry me.” Mathew played as I used all my strength to keep both him and I from falling over. All while trying to keep my laughing to a minimum so he couldn’t hear. 

“I️ came here to babysit them, not you!” I teased finally getting him to the basement door. Yet, he didn’t let off any of his weight. 

“I’ll go down on one condition.” He then added, turning his head that was still on my shoulder towards my face, where his nose now tickled my cheek. 

“You have to join me down there once the kids go to sleep.” He whispered so low to the point I almost didn’t hear it. 

This sent me into a whirlwind of thoughts. I wouldn’t have to worry about the kids seeing, since they’re the best sleepers ever and never come out of their rooms. Plus, it's always quiet and lonely after they’re asleep. I normally just sit on the couch and watch TV anyway. Dennis told me to head home after they were all in bed, but staying another couple of minutes couldn’t hurt right? Especially since they were expected to come home late. It sounded almost foolproof. 

“Ugh my legs!” Mat said, clearly becoming impatient for my answer, as he leaned even more weight onto me. 

“Okay okay okay! I’ll see you down there at 8:30.” I answered almost toppling over onto the floor. “Can’t wait.” He stated while finally standing up straight, freeing my muscles as he quickly and happily descended down the stairs.

[echoes-of-the-clockwork]

Book One: Death (Noctis x Reader) Chapter Eighteen

A/n: As we're coming up to the end of this short book, I want to say that the ending won't match the game at all and I hope it'll be a nice change of pace. Hope you all enjoy this next chapter! Love you all!!! •••••••••••••••••••• On the boarding platform, Noctis glanced at the others. "You guys mind if we stop in Tenebrae?"

"I don't see why not," (Y/n) said, smiling at her boyfriend.

"Might as well hop off," Prompto said.

Gladio still didn't like the idea of stopping, but he couldn't say no. "If it helps him move on."

Noctis addresses Ignis before boarding the train and departing. "We're here for you."

Prompto nodded with a smile. "Yeah, let us help you."

"Don't hesitate to ask if you need a shoulder to lean on," (Y/n) added.

The boarding bell begins to ring, signaling the passengers to return. "And we're off!" Prompto cheered as he entered the train.

(Y/n) gave Ignis a helping hand and hooked their arms together. She helped him up the stairs, onto the train, and to a nearby seat. As the advisor sat down, she felt a chill crawl down her spine. Her head snapped up, staring at the door that led to the train car behind them. Unconsciously, she gripped Ignis' sleeve tightly as she fell into a trance.

"(Y/n), is there a problem?" The bespectacled advisor questioned at feeling her grip on his clothes.

Death jumped slightly as she snapped out of her petrified state. "I... I don't know. Excuse me for a moment." The Horseman releases her hold on the strategist and walks down the aisle to check out the next train car.

"Hey, (Y/n), where're you going?" Noctis asked as he stood from his seat.

"Going to check something out. I'll be right back," she responded before opening the door and entering the adjoining train car.

Stepping through the doorway, the other passengers eyed her as she walked down the aisle. Ignoring their stares, she followed the eerie presence to another train car until she reached one of the many dining cars. People were enjoying drinks at the bar while others ate at the booths. She glanced around at them as she felt the unsettling presence vanish. (Y/n) recognized the aura and who it belonged to, but she didn't spot the man that matched.

Seeing her flustered expression, one woman stood from her seat and approached her. "Are you alright, Miss?"

"Y-Yes. Excuse me." (Y/n) left the dining car and headed back to the others. When she didn't find the boys where she last saw them, the Horseman checked the remaining cars. Death remembered the number of the boys' cabin Prompto had graciously told her and decided to check that next. When the door slid open to the cabin, the train's brakes screeched loudly and (Y/n) lost her balance, causing her to fall. Glancing out the window as she got to her feet, she saw an army of magiteks marching towards the train. "Great..."

Death summoned her scythe, destroyed the window, and jumped out of the train. Further down the way, she spotted Noctis and Prompto fighting side by side. Slicing through a few MTs, (Y/n) saw tanks approaching and aiming at the train. Running as fast as she could, the Horseman concentrated her attacks on a single tank. Once she ruptured the engine, she jumped away and avoided the explosion. As the tank exploded, the large fire took a handful of magiteks with it.

(Y/n) eyed the two boys fighting as Noctis targeted another tank and Prompto shot a few MTs. When she saw the blonde's form, she knew something was off. She also took note of how his usually cheery banter was filled with a strange silence.

"(Y/n), move!" Someone shouted as she was tackled to the ground. Her eyes traveled to where she was previously standing and saw a blade lodged into the cement.

Death sighed, scolding herself mentally for not paying attention. "Thanks for the save, Noct. What's the deal with Prompto?" She asked as the boy helped her up and sliced another MT in half.

"Uh," Noctis looks at his best friend. "He looks normal to me." The girl was unconvinced, but she dropped the subject as she fought alongside Noctis.

<------<<<<<<<

Prompto and (Y/n) returned to the train while Noctis handled the tanks. Once the two were safely aboard, the train slowly started gaining speed. As the train picked up speed, Death stared at the blonde with sharp (e/c) eyes. "Where's the real Prompto?"

The fake Prompto simply offered an eerie and skin-crawling smile in response. (Y/n) went to summon her weapon, but she stopped at the sound of the door in the back of the train car opening. A flustered and frightened Ardyn entered and quickly closed the door behind him. Once his golden eyes landed on (Y/n), she connected the puzzle pieces. She knew the one who was posing as Prompto was, indeed, the chancellor.

Before Death could summon her scythe and pierce the man's flesh, a blade was driven through her back. She gasped at the sudden rush of pain, as she glanced down at the blade that protruded from her gut. Blood trickled down her mouth as she felt the crimson substance pouring from her gaping wound as the real Ardyn yanked the sword from her body.

"No!" The real Prompto shouted as (Y/n) saw he no longer looked like the man that stabbed her. Coughing violently, blood spurted everywhere as her vision wavered and her legs felt heavy underneath her. She took a single step forward and fell to the floor, blood pooling around her. She heard Prompto shout her name and a warm hand against her face before her body went numb and all was consumed by darkness.

<------<<<<<<<

Feeling returned to (Y/n)'s body as she felt something cold against her face. Slowly, she regained feeling in her arms and legs before her eyes fluttered opened. She inhaled deeply and her vision steadied, exhaling heavily as she glanced around to see where she was. Death recognized the bunk beds and knew she was in the boys' cabin aboard the train. A few feet away, Noctis stood with his back to her as he stared out the window. (Y/n) realized the train was stopped and wondered how long she'd been unconscious.

When the Horseman sat up in the bed, the mattress beneath her squeaked. The small noise alerted the boy, causing him to turn around. "You're finally awake," he sighed in relief.

"How long was I out?" (Y/n) inquired as she examined the area she was impaled, running her hand over the healed skin.

"A few hours," he replied as he sat down beside her.

"What... What happened after I was stabbed?"

Noctis was silent for a few seconds before telling Death all that happened after she fell unconscious. The Horseman learned of the incident with Prompto and became worried for his safety. He also told her of the daemon infestation and how Leviathan came to their aid. Now, the train was stopped at the station in Tenebrae due to how dangerous the tracks were for the civilians to be traveling without protection.

(Y/n) leaned back, flopping down on the mattress. Her inky locks sprawled around her head as she stared up at the bottom of the top bunk. "Guess we'll need another way to reach Gralea."

"Really?" Noctis huffed in surprise.

"What?" Death asked.

"You were stabbed, killed, and now back. You're not gonna question any of that?"

"Psh, I've been stabbed and killed plenty of times. You get used to it and stop questioning it."

"Yeah, well," Noctis flopped on his back beside her. "I'm not getting used to it anytime soon. You should also wash your hair."

(Y/n) flew up and off the bed, dashing to the bathroom. Inside, she stared at her inky locks and saw the blood that tainted them. She grabbed a few strands and pressed her fingers against the blood. Rolling her eyes, Death groaned as she leaned against the sink. "It's dry..."

"Need some help?" Noctis offered, standing in the doorway.

"I was just about to shout for you. Get in here!" The Horseman grabbed Noctis' arm and yanked him into the bathroom.

"Why not just take a shower?" The boy advocated.

"Because that would require too much time and I only need to clean my hair. It seems you did a pretty good job at cleaning the rest of my body of blood, pervert."

"I'm not a pervert!" Noctis shouted as he tossed the rag he used to clean (Y/n) in the sink.

Death grinned, deciding to tease him further. "Mm, I know you've been wanting to get some alone time, but there are definitely better ways to try and get it."

Noctis knew she was teasing, but he couldn't help the truth from slipping. "You were dead and I was the only viable option since you're my girlfriend. Not like I could've explained the circumstances to another girl on board as I asked for her help to clean a corpse that would reanimate in a few hours."

The Horseman was stumped. "... Good point." (Y/n) sat down on the toilet lid as she grabbed a spare towel. "Now, will you help me clean my hair?"

"Yeah, just... turn around."

Death did as she was told and turned around on the toilet lid. Noctis grabbed another towel and wetted it before grabbing a handful of (Y/n)'s hair and cleaning the dry blood from them. While the boy tended to what she couldn't see or reach easily, the Horseman wetted the towel she grabbed and pulled a few strands over her shoulder so she could start purging her hair of blood. As she trailed the towel through her tresses, a question popped into mind. "How'd you get my body to the cabin without others seeing or asking questions?"

"Not gonna answer that."

<------<<<<<<<

Noctis and (Y/n) left the train once she was cleaned and spotted Gladio and Ignis resting on a bench. The brute saw them approaching and grinned at Death. "Dead girl walking."

The Horseman crossed her arms with a sigh. "How long have you been waiting to use that one?"

"Quite a while," he responded with a faint chuckle.

"Yeah, well, this dead girl can send ya six feet under in less than a second."

Ignis raised his head, looking in (Y/n)'s general direction. "Glad to hear you are well, (Y/n)."

"Must've been one hell of an injury if it took a few hours to heal. Then again, internal injuries take longer to heal regardless of you're mortal or immortal," Death casually responds.

Suddenly, a woman with silver hair pulled up into a ponytail sauntered over with a hand on her hip. "Well, look who's here."

Confused as to who she was, Death simply eyed her sharply. Noctis patted her on the shoulder, signaling the woman before them wasn't the enemy. "Aranea. Guess we've got you to thank for this mess?"

"More to it than meets the eye. You wanna know who to thank? Come with me," Aranea responded with a sigh.

"Can't wait to hear this."

The group follow Aranea and as they walked, the ex-mercenary had pinpointed who (Y/n) truly was. Death asked how the silver-haired woman knew and she learned about her when Noctis, Prompto, and Ignis were hunting down mythril for the sea vessel. Apparently, the raven-haired boy was moping and Aranea questioned him as to why he was down in the dumps. From there, Noctis had divulged details about who she was on accident due to him being on cloud nine. Ignis has scolded the prince for sharing such information, but Aranea swore she wouldn't tell anyone and tried to cheer Noctis up.

After listening to the story, (Y/n) stared into the distance. Guilt gnawed at her heart as she seemed to fall behind. No matter who comforted her, the feeling wouldn't vanish for a long while. She clasped her hands together, fiddling with her fingers as she was now following behind the three boys.

"Hey." (Y/n)'s gaze was torn from where she was staring and to the owner of the voice. Noctis had stopped as Aranea continued to escort Gladio and Ignis. "I know what you're thinkin' and you need to stop."

"That's a lot to do, especially now that I know how much my absence affected you. Maybe I should've just-"

Noctis grabbed her shoulders and squeezed them. "Don't you dare finish that damn sentence."

"But, Noct-"

"No. Just... shut up."

Leaning forward, Noctis sealed (Y/n)'s lips with a kiss. The sudden kiss caught Death off guard, but she welcomed the blissful sensation with open arms.

[mrswalkerwritesagain]

April Fool’s Day - Damien x Gabi

Book: Perfect Match Genres: Fluff, Humor, Romance Rating: PG-13 Pairings: Damien/MC Characters: Damien Nazario, Gabi Park Word Count: ~1,900

Author’s Notes: I challenged myself to a little springtime themed fic series this month. Hope you enjoy the first installment!

As Damien turns the water off and steps out of the shower, a stray cluster of shampoo bubbles runs down his face and into his left eye.

“Damn it!” Damien winces and squeezes his eye shut. “Ow…ow…ow…”

Reaching for a towel, Damien fumbles along the towel bar but doesn’t find what he’s looking for. Risking the soapy sting in his eye, Damien squints to see that, sure enough, the towel he’s positive he hung up before he got in the shower is gone.

“What the hell?” Damien grumbles. Crouching, he digs around in the cabinet under the sink, but once again he comes up empty. There’s not even a washcloth.

“Gabi!” he yells. “Where the hell are the towels?”

The bathroom door opens and his live-in girlfriend’s cheerful face peeks around it.

“What was that, darling?”

“Where the hell are the towels?” he repeats. “Did you suddenly develop a desire to do a load of laundry first thing on a Monday morning?”

“Are they not in the cabinet?” Gabi asks in a suspiciously innocent tone. Damien’s eyes narrow as he turns to look up at her. Gabi’s brow is furrowed with confusion, but it’s the look in her eyes and slight upturn of the corner of her lips that gives her away.

“Gabi,” Damien warns as he stands. Any semblance of innocence melts away from her features, replaced with a devious smirk.

“Guess you’ll have to stay like that today. Oh well,” Gabi’s eyes slide down his body in a heated way that almost derails Damien’s annoyance…almost.

“Gabi! Where are they?” Damien stalks toward her and Gabi mirror his strides as she backs up into the bedroom. She’s still wearing an infuriating little smile on her face, clearly quite proud of herself.

“Gabriela…” he growls and she laughs until he lunges toward her. Shrieking, she tries to dart away, but he feints left before going right and catching Gabi around her waist. Damien pulls her tight against his still dripping wet body and tackles her to the bed.

“No! I just got dressed!” Gabi laughs as she squirms beneath him.

“Tough,” Damien grins down at her. “You steal my towel, you become my towel.”

“I have to go to work! My first appointment is in like half an hour!”

“Then tell me where they are, woman!” Damien catches Gabi’s hands and pins them above her head. Bowing his head, he lets his lips hover just above hers and whispers, “I have ways of making you talk, you know, and they’re guaranteed to make you late for work.”

Damien presses his hips into hers and Gabi lets out a soft gasp. He kisses her hard and demanding until they break apart, gasping for breath.

“Where are they?” he asks again and Gabi blinks slowly as though coming out of a daze before she answers.

“Uh…um…oh, they’re under the bed.”

Damien grins victoriously and drops another quick kiss on the tip of Gabi’s nose. He climbs off the bed and kneels beside the bed, finally finding every towel they own in a jumbled pile. Pulling one out, he knots it around his waist and slicks back his wet hair while Gabi stands and and straightens her wrinkled and slightly damp clothes.

“Want to explain the great towel caper of 2019?” Damien asks her.

“April Fool’s!” Gabi beams at him.

“Oh, god,” he groans, “not again. You didn’t get enough perverse pleasure out of pranking me last year?”

“Nope! And I’m upping my game this year,” Gabi slaps his ass as she passes him and breezes out of the bedroom. “Stay on your toes today, Nazario.”

“I hate this. You’re the worst!” Damien calls after her, already dreading what else she has in store for him.

“Love you too, baby! See you later!”

The front door slams behind Gabi and Damien goes about getting ready for his day. He cautiously tests his shaving cream, hair gel, and toothpaste in the sink before using any of them. Last year, she managed to sneak dye into his hair gel and he’d wound up with green hands and hair for the entire rest of the week.

Having survived or avoided any bathroom sabotages, Damien strides into the kitchen and stops in his tracks. The pink and orange Dunkin’ Donuts box on the counter looks innocent and most days a box of donuts would just be a thoughtful treat from his beloved girlfriend. Today, however, he regards it with the same mistrust he would a land mine. 

Snatching a pair of tongs from the utensil drawer, Damien quickly flips the box open and then jumps back, ducking before something can jump out at him. But nothing happens and Damien breathes a sigh of relief. Inside, there’s an array of filled donuts and Damien’s suspicion flares up once again again. He takes out one of the chocolate frosted confections and rips it in half. The filling looks like cream, but….dipping a finger into the cream, he tastes it and gags.

“Mayonnaise? Seriously?”

Damien sets the donut on the counter and snaps a quick pic that he texts to Gabi.

D: Is nothing sacred? What am I supposed to have for bfast? G: Made you a smoothie. Check fridge. Enjoy! D: I need real food. Not fruit juice. G: Smoothie is real food and better for your cholesterol, old man. D: You’re the worst. G: Love you too. Client’s here. Talk later!

Sighing heavily, Damien retrieves the so-called breakfast from the fridge and he manages to choke it down as he takes the subway to his office. The rest of his day is spent dealing with Gabi’s inconvenient little pranks. He gets to his office to find she’s covered his desk and chair with pictures of Nicolas Cage. He assumes this is some kind of meme that he doesn’t understand. When he finally unearths his desk from the Cages, he finds that she’s jammed most of his drawers shut. She changed the password on his computer to GabiParkIsTheBestGirlfriendEver. The only reason he figured it out was because she finally gave a clue that simply said My official title. Halfway through the day as he came back from lunch, he noticed that she’d messed with his listing on the building’s directory so instead of Nazario Investigations, it said Damien Nazario: Private DICK.

“I knew knew I never should have given her a key,” Damien grumbles as he fusses with the little plastic pieces on the letter board. When he tries to text her about it, his phone just keeps autocorrecting every other word he tries to write to I love Gabi Park.

It’s almost 6PM and Damien thinks he’s survived most of Gabi’s pranks when his office phone rings and a frantic man begs Damien to meet with him. He speaks with a heavy, indiscernible accent and tells Damien a sob story about a missing boyfriend. Business has been good since everything went down with Eros, but Damien is still in no position to turn down work so he takes the job and promises to meet the guy in an hour. 

“Hey,” Damien calls Gabi as he heads uptown to the swanky hotel his client requested to meet at, “I got a case. I’m not going to make it home until late.”

“What? No!” Gabi pouts on the other end of the line.

“I know, I know,” Damien sighs, “I’m probably keeping you from pulling a hundred more pranks on me.”

“That’s not it,” Gabi says. “Between your work and my helping Nadia and Steve with their new party planning/catering thing, we haven’t had a night together in a couple weeks, Damien. I miss you.”

“I miss you too, baby, and I believe me, I’d much rather spend the night with you doing all sorts of things showing you just how much I’ve missed you, but…”

“A job is a job,” Gabi says with a sigh. “I get it. It’s fine.”

“I’m sorry,” Damien apologizes. Even when she drives him crazy, Gabi is the most important person in the world to him, the love of his life, and the girl of his dreams. He hates disappointing her. “I’m meeting this guy at a hotel to get the details and then I’ll hightail it back to you as soon as I can, okay?”

“Okay. Be safe. I love you.”

“I will. Love you too.”

The April wind is still carrying a sharp winter chill and by the time Damien steps into the hotel lobby, he’s shivering and his face feels frozen and numb and he’s feeling more eager than ever to get home to Gabi. He strides across the lobby to the hotel’s bar. It’s a dimly lit, almost romantic little spot with velvet sofas and chandeliers hanging from the ceiling. It’s also completely empty.

“Son of bitch,” Damien curses and pulls out his phone to call the client. He’s scrolling through his contacts when he senses someone behind him .

“April Fool’s, Mr. Nazario.”

He turns around and there she is. Damien’s mouth goes dry and he swallows hard looking her up and down. Her hair is curled and falls in violet waves over her bare shoulders and neck. Her dress is black lace with a deep revealing neckline. It’s incredibly short, incredibly tight and leaves nothing to his imagination. He knows every inch of her body and seeing her fills him with the desire to explore them anew. In one of her hands, she holds a glass of amber liquid.

“Gabi…wow…you look…I mean…Jesus, woman…”

Gabi laughs softly at his reaction and then offers him a whiskey and he throws it back in one swallow.

“I take it you like this prank?” Gabi trails her hand up his chest and shoulder to the nape of his neck. She looks up at him from under her lashes, eyes dark with heat and sparkling with amusement.

“Uh, yeah, that’s an understatement,” he wraps his arm around her, hand tightening on her waist as he pulls her against him. “How’d you do it?”

“A little help from a voice-changer thingy Sloane came up with. Please, man, I gotta know where he is! I’m going crazy,” Gabi repeats the words that Damien’s “client” had spoken to him on the phone earlier and he shakes his head.

“You really got me, babe. I honest to god thought I was coming here for a job.”

“Oh, Damien,” Gabi gives him a sultry smile and leans close, her lips brushing his ear as she whispers in a breathy voice, “you are here for a job…only I’m the one who’ll be doing it.”

Damien turns his head and catches Gabi’s lips in a long, deep kiss, not caring a wit that they’re in public, even as Gabi slides her hand down his back to grasp his ass and pull him even more tightly against her body. He moans against her lips and slides his tongue against hers.

“You’re the best,” Damien pants when they finally break apart, gazing down at the amazing, infuriating, wonderful, beautiful woman in his arms.

“Oh, I know.”

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