#there’s no words that can describe how much i need him

[pbaz7]

FINDING PEACE IN YOU: PART 1

paige x azzi

word count: 11.7k

A/N: I’m back!!! This is one of my first AU and it got me excited to write again! I don’t even know how to describe it honestly 😭 just read it and find out. Let me know what you think please 🤭

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Azzi Fudd stood at the counter of the small, semi-packed café in Dallas, Texas, holding her warm cup of coffee in her hand. Normally, the café was a quiet, peaceful retreat—just the perfect place for a quick moment of solitude before heading to her office for the day. But today? The usual cozy hum of conversation and soft music turned into a buzz of chatter, and for some reason, there were more people milling about than she was used to. Some sat with their drinks, but there were others who didn’t seem to have a purpose, simply standing around, scanning the space. It felt like the usual sereneness had been replaced with a subtle restlessness in the air.

Azzi shook the thought from her mind. She’d come here for one thing: a much-needed pick me up with a cup of coffee. She took a sip, the warmth swirling in her chest, but as she turned toward an empty corner, a sudden bump jolted her from her thoughts.

She looked down to find herself toe-to-toe with a tiny figure.

The little boy stood there, almost too small to notice in the midst of all the bustling customers. He had bright blue eyes that seemed to sparkle anytime the sunlight hit them, his blonde hair a soft, messy assortment of wavy curls. There was something about him—something about how his wide-eyed gaze was a mix of innocent curiosity and complete calmness.

“Oh! I’m sorry,” Azzi murmured, stepping back to avoid the awkwardness of the accidental bump. She gave him a gentle smile, but before she could ask if he was alright, the boy softly mumbled, “Sorry.” Then he turned his attention back to the cafe around him, his focus unbroken as he looked around.

Azzi tilted her head slightly. She couldn’t help but smile at how quietly composed he seemed. Kneeling down to his level, she knelt to make eye contact, her voice soft but warm to not scare him. “Do you need help, sweetie?”

The boy paused, his brows furrowing ever so slightly as if he was pondering the question carefully. “Maybe,” he said after a moment.

Azzi couldn’t help but chuckle at the response. “Maybe? That’s a first,” she teased gently. She watched him closely, noting the confidence in his small but steady posture.

The boy shifted his gaze, his blue eyes scanning the café again with all of the seriousness he could muster. Finally, he turned toward Azzi. “Ma says I’m not posed to talk to strangers,” he said. Pausing for a second before adding, “But you’re pretty.”

Azzi’s smile widened at the compliment. “Well, thank you, handsome,” she replied. “Where’s your mom?”

The boy looked around again, his small body twisting in place as he searched the area. His little shoulders sagged as he gave a shrug, his eyes lowering briefly, unsure what to do next.

Azzi’s heart melted at the sight. “What’s your name, sweetie?”

The boy’s eyes brightened at the question, a sudden surge of confidence rising in his small frame. “Lukas Drew Bueckers,” he said, puffing out his chest with a quiet pride. He then added, as though to clarify a very important piece of information, “Lukas with a K.”

Azzi laughed softly at his enthusiasm. “Well, Lukas with a K, can I help you find your mom?”

The boy studied her for a moment, his blue eyes scanning her face carefully. Weighing his options. After a second, he nodded, as if deciding she was trustworthy. “Sure,” he said simply.

Azzi smiled and without a second thought she carefully scooped him up into her arms.

She felt Lukas shift slightly in her arms, his small body twisting as he scanned the room with fresh determination. His earlier uncertainty had disappeared, replaced by a quiet confidence that Azzi couldn’t help but admire for someone his age. As she looked at him, she saw his blue eyes brighten, and before she could ask him about it, the boy’s small hand shot out.

Azzi’s gaze trailed the direction of his tiny finger. Across the cafe, standing near a group of young girls, was a tall blonde woman who immediately caught Azzi’s attention. She looked calm, almost serene, as if she had mastered the art of existing in a crowded space without ever being overwhelmed by it. Her posture was straight, her movements calculated as she offered polite smiles to the people around her giving each one of them just the right amount of attention. But there was something else in her gaze—something more intentional behind her warm expression. Azzi could see that, despite the casual grace she radiated, the woman was intentionally scanning the room in between bursts of eye contact.

The way the woman held herself reminded Azzi of the little boy she had in her arms. They both seemed to exude that same stillness, that calm poise. Like they were in their own little bubble amidst the chaos of the café.

Azzi squinted slightly, her eyes narrowing in on the blonde. There was something vaguely familiar about her, a recognition that lingered just out of reach, but Azzi couldn’t place it because she was a little too far to make out the full details of her face.

Then, Lukas’s soft voice broke her thoughts. “That’s my ma,” he said proudly, his chest puffing out with a sense of triumph.

Azzi’s eyes shifted back to the woman. Her calm demeanor was still in place as she subtly swept her gaze across the room again, her eyes eventually landing on Lukas and holding there for just a moment longer than necessary. She didn’t rush or react too visibly—she simply locked eyes with him, a small flicker of relief in her expression.

Azzi adjusted him in her arms, the little boy now content to rest against her with a gentle but firm grip. “I think we found her, huh?”

Lukas nodded, his blue eyes fixed on his mom as he let out a small sigh of relief.

Azzi’s gaze lingered on the blonde woman a little longer than she’d intended. There was something magnetic about her, something familiar yet entirely unknown. As Azzi observed her, the woman’s gaze shifted again, this time locking onto hers with an intensity that made Azzi’s heart skip a beat. It wasn’t just a casual glance—it felt like a quiet assessment. As if the blonde was calculating who this woman was with her son in her arms. Azzi’s breath caught in her chest, feeling the weight of that scrutiny, and for a brief second, she wondered what the woman was thinking.

But then, as quickly as it began, the assessment seemed to end. The blonde’s expression softened, a small smirk tugging at her lips. The moment passed, and she effortlessly shifted her attention back to the person in front of her, posing for a picture with a polite smile and signing her autograph.

Azzi gently adjusted Lukas in her arms as she began making her way over to the blonde.

As Azzi approached and the details became a little more defined it clicked in her mind who the woman was. The blonde paused mid-laugh, her attention shifting to her son who was now in front of her.

Lukas, known to be a little enthusiastic, reached his small arms toward his mother, his face lighting up when she caught him effortlessly despite him basically launching his body at her.

“Where’d you run off to, buddy?” the blonde asked with a soft laugh as she organized some of the messy waves of curls on the boy's head.

Lukas looked up at her with wide eyes, his face scrunched in concentration as he tried to explain his logic. “I was standing right there,” he began, his words spilling out in his three, almost-four-year-old cadence. “But then a girl tried to take a picture with you, and she almost ran me over! She dropped her chocolate, so I went to get her napkins.”

The blonde smiled at his story with an affectionate glint in her eyes. “Being a gentleman, huh?” she teased, clearly proud of her son’s instincts.

Lukas beamed at the praise, nodding vigorously. “Yup!”

Before Azzi could react, Lukas was off again, his little mouth running a mile a minute as he continued, “And then I bumped into this nice ma’am, but I wasn’t gonna talk to strangers ‘cause you know Ma you always say I shouldn’t, but she was really pretty, so I did anyway. And then she helped me find you!” Once he was done he shrugged casually, as if the sequence of events was a regular part of his day.

Azzi couldn’t help but smile at the way he rambled, completely unfazed by the world around him, his innocence and honesty shining through in his words. Paige, for her part, seemed entirely accustomed to this stream-of-consciousness storytelling, her eyes twinkling as she chuckled softly, the lines around her eyes deepening as she smiled at him.

“Well, alright, Casanova,” Paige said with a playful tone, her voice soft but still authoritative. “Go sit right there where I can see you and don’t move.” She pointed toward a chair directly next to where she was standing, just a few steps away, so Lukas wouldn’t be out of her sight again.

Lukas nodded, his eyes wide with excitement at the notion of getting to sit in such a grown-up chair. “Okay!” he said, already wiggling in his mom’s arms as she gently set him down.

Azzi couldn’t help but chuckle as she watched the little boy plop himself into the seat with a small flourish, trying to act like a big kid, yet still so full of that innocent wonder. She turned her gaze back to the blonde woman, who was already looking at her.

The blonde licked her lips, a subtle gesture, before she spoke. “Thank you for helping out the ladies' man over there,” she said, her voice smooth. She reached her hand out, a slight smirk forming on her lips—not one of arrogance, but a kind of self-assuredness that made it clear she knew exactly how to speak to women. “I’m Paige,” she added, her tone warm and inviting.

Azzi didn’t immediately respond with her name. Instead she simply reached out to shake Paige’s hand, a small flicker of amusement crossing her face when she felt Paige’s thumb brush against her knuckles. The touch was subtle, Azzi pulled away with a quiet confidence that Paige wasn’t used to encountering.

With a small smile, Azzi said, “I know who you are.”

Paige’s smirk deepened, her eyes flashing with curiosity. “Yeah?”

Azzi chuckled softly. “Kind of hard not to know who the face of the Wings is when you live in Dallas.”

Paige hummed in acknowledgment, not surprised but seemingly entertained. Azzi glanced around the café, her eyes noticing the small crowd still lingering near Paige and watching her conversation subtly.

“So, I take it you’re the reason my coffee run was so hectic today?”

Paige chuckled softly. “Yeah, sorry about that,” she said. “Someone posted about me being here before I could leave, and Casanova over there was taking his sweet time eating his breakfast muffin.”

Azzi laughed, the image of the little boy sitting there eating his food slowly while the world swirled around him. “I’m happy I could help,” she said, her voice warm but with a hint of finality, as though the conversation was wrapping up.

But just as Azzi turned to walk away, she felt a light, unexpected touch at her elbow. Paige’s fingers brushed against her skin, stopping her from walking away. The confident smirk never left her face, only now it seemed a little more certain.

“Lemme take you out,” Paige said smoothly, her blue eyes never leaving Azzi’s. “You know, to thank you.”

Azzi raised an eyebrow at that, clearly intrigued but also well aware of the kind of woman Paige was simply by how she carried herself. There was something about her—something that spoke volumes without her needing to say much. Azzi could tell that she was used to getting what she wanted with women, and something about that made Azzi want to make her work for it just a little more.

“Take me out, huh?” Azzi’s voice was laced with amusement, her lips curving into a slight smile.

Paige, unphased, nodded. “Yeah...you know, to properly thank you.”

Azzi hummed thoughtfully, tilting her head slightly as she gave Paige a once-over. Paige was very attractive, no denying that. Her tall frame, the way she carried herself, and that self-assured smile—it was all part of the appeal. But Azzi wasn’t about to give in that easily. She knew what Paige was implying, and while one night stands wasn’t Azzi’s thing, she found herself intrigued in a different way. She met Paige’s eyes, a spark of something unspoken passing between them.

“Coffee,” Azzi said simply.

Paige blinked, momentarily taken aback, though she hid it quickly. “Coffee?” she echoed, as if trying to process what Azzi had just suggested.

Azzi’s grin grew, a glimmer of challenge in her gaze. “Coffee,” she confirmed, her voice steady, eyes locked on Paige’s.

Paige’s lips twitched, her smirk softening into something a little more genuine, almost intrigued. She didn’t push it further. Instead, she let out a small surprised laugh.

“Alright…coffee it is,” Paige said, her voice smooth but with a quiet acknowledgment of the unusual challenge Azzi had just thrown her way.

Azzi, sensing that subtle shift in Paige’s gaze—something that told her she wasn't going to be as easy as Paige was used to—smiled to herself. She reached into her wallet, fingers grazing over the smooth surface of a business card, pulling it out. Flipping it over, she grabbed a pen from the counter and scribbled down her personal number.

Without a word, she handed the card to Paige, her fingers brushing against hers just for a moment. "You can text me," Azzi said.

Azzi turned to walk away, her body already angled toward the door when Paige’s voice called out, stopping her in her tracks.

“You never told me your name.”

Azzi paused for a brief second. A slight smirk danced on her lips, playful and a little enigmatic. She didn’t turn back to face Paige fully. Instead, with a casual motion, pointed at the card still resting in Paige’s hand. Without another word, she walked away.

Paige stood there, her brow furrowing in confusion for just a heartbeat, before she looked down at the card in her hand. Her fingers flipped it over, and her eyes scanned the text on the front.

"Azzi Fudd, DO – Private Sports Medicine Physician."

A small, amused smile spread across Paige’s face.

Azzi Fudd.

Paige’s smile deepened, a quiet breathy laugh slipping past her lips as she looked up, her gaze scanning the café for the woman who had already disappeared into the crowd. There was something about the way Azzi handled the whole situation that was a little out of Paige’s typical experience.

Shaking her head slightly, a smile still still tugging at the corners of her lips. She slipped the card into her pocket.

Paige turned back around to check on Lukas, who was sitting in the chair, deep in concentration, scribbling away at something on a piece of paper. Paige couldn’t help but laugh softly to herself, wondering just where he’d gotten that paper and pencil from.

She glanced down at his artwork, trying to make sense of it. The lines were haphazard, the shapes somewhat abstract. Paige tilted her head, her curiosity piqued as she tried to figure out what she was looking at.

“What you drawing dude?” she asked as she crouched down to get a better look.

Lukas looked up at her, his expression completely serious, like it should be clear as day what he was creating. “Ma, it’s a basketball hoop,” he said matter-of-factly, as if she should’ve known that from the start.

Paige raised an eyebrow at the drawing, her smile growing. The abstract shapes and squiggles started to make sense in her head now, and she couldn’t help but feel a little proud of his imagination. “Oooh, yeah, I see it now,” she said, playing along with a grin as she exaggerated her acknowledgment, making him laugh with pride.

She scooped him up effortlessly, his small arms wrapping around her neck immediately. He let out a yawn and buried his face in her shoulder with a soft sigh. Paige smiled down at him and kissed his head before moving toward the door.

She caught sight of her security guard sitting at one of the tables near the entrance, doing his usual routine. He never looked too imposing, but that was part of the job—he blended in. He was always calm, always steady, and knew when to step in without making anyone feel uncomfortable.

Paige had always been a little protective of her sense of independence, even after hiring a security team when she got to the league. She had always been determined to keep the control of her life in her own hands. She still drove herself around whenever she could, enjoyed the simple privacy of a quick coffee run without the constant buzz of attention, and most of all, she never wanted her security guard to be too close, hovering nearby. It was one of the things that made her feel like herself—the ability to be just another person, moving through the world without the heaviness of fame always hanging over her.

Her security guard was great at his job. He knew when to blend into the background and when to step in to get her out of situations. Paige had learned to trust him over time—he was discreet, always in the right place at the right time, without being an obvious presence.

Paige glanced over at him. “We’re heading to the gym,” Paige said. He gave a quick nod as he stood up to follow.

Paige stepped out of the café, the door closing gently behind her security as he walked towards his vehicle. The early Dallas sunlight bathed her in a warm glow. She walked toward her car, her sneakers making soft sounds against the pavement as Lukas chatted away.

She unlocked the back door of her Jeep where Lukas’s car seat was waiting. As she opened the door and sat him in his seat, she asked with a teasing tone, “You can buckle it?”

Lukas stopped in his tracks, a look of almost exaggerated offense crossing his face. His wide blue eyes narrowed slightly, as if she’d just asked him the most ridiculous question.

With a huff, he promptly reached over and started to buckle himself into his car seat—no assistance needed. The little grunt of concentration made Paige smile as she leaned against the car, arms crossed as she watched him with a mixture of admiration and amusement.

“You’re so independent,” she muttered under her breath, but Lukas was clearly on a mission and didn’t hear her. Within seconds, he had the car seat secured, sitting up proudly in his seat as he looked at his mom as if saying ‘see.’

Paige shook her head, laughing softly. “My son is so sassy,” she muttered to herself with a small, fond smile. She gave a small tug on the buckle to make sure he did it correctly before kissing his head and shutting the door and walking to the driver's seat. Paige was used to it by now—the way Lukas was quick to show off his little bits of grown-up behavior, always full of surprises, always one step ahead of her in his own way.

…

Later that night, after her day had wound down, Paige sat on the couch in the living room, the quiet hum of a random game playing on the TV in the background. Lukas was sprawled out beside her, completely fast asleep, his chest rising and falling with each breath. Paige took a moment to just look at him, her heart swelling with that familiar sense of calm that always followed after a long day of chaos.

Her gaze shifted to the table in front of her, where she had tossed the card earlier. Reaching for it, she flipped it over in her hands, her thumb grazing the edges before she grabbed her phone. She typed in the number on the back of the card, staring at the digits for a moment before tapping them into her messages.

She typed out a quick simple message: "So, about that coffee?"

Paige tossed her phone to the side before leaning back on the couch, eyes going back to the game on TV. Her phone buzzed a few minutes later, breaking her train of thought.

Paige scoffed when she saw the reply, and couldn’t help but grin. It read: “No introduction?”

She quickly typed back, tapping her fingers across the screen: “Didn’t think I needed one.”

The reply came almost immediately, and Paige’s grin grew. “Of course you didn’t.”

Paige chuckled and sat up a little straighter, then typed her response: “When are you free?”

She watched the screen for a moment, her fingers tapping lightly against her phone as she waited. A moment later, Azzi’s response popped up: “Thursday?”

Paige slid her thumb across her phone to open the calendar app, checking her schedule with a quick scan before going back to the message thread. She typed out: “I can do 11 Thursday.”

Azzi’s response was short and to the point: “Sounds good.”

For a moment, Paige paused. A thought struck her, and she smirked as she typed her next message: “So, what, I just gotta think about you for another day before I can thank you for helping my son?”

She hit send and set the phone down on the couch beside her, a soft laugh escaping her lips as she leaned back again. But it didn’t take long for Azzi’s response to come through, a quick and simple reply: “Seems that way.”

Paige raised an eyebrow, glancing at her phone. “Sounds kinda crazy to me,” she typed, a little smirk tugging at her lips as she sent it off.

She set the phone down again, turning her attention back to Lukas, who was still sound asleep beside her. Before she could drift too far into her thoughts, her phone buzzed once more. The message that appeared on the screen was brief and simple: “Goodnight, Paige.”

A genuine smile crossed Paige’s face at Azzi not playing into her antics. She couldn’t help the laugh that escaped her lips before she tossed her phone aside, letting it land gently on the couch. She moved quietly, scooping Lukas into her arms, his small body warm against her chest.

"Come on, little man," she whispered softly, cradling him as she stood up. She carried him to his room, the quiet rhythm of his breathing the only sound that filled the quiet house. Once she’d tucked him into bed, she kissed the top of his head gently, smoothing his hair back.

Paige stood for a moment, watching him before turning to leave the room.

…

When Thursday rolled around, Paige strolled into the café at around 10:55 AM, her steps steady and relaxed as she took in the familiar setting. The soft sound of music filled the air. As she walked further inside, her eyes immediately landed on Azzi. She wasn’t expecting her to be there before her, but there she was, already sitting at a table with her legs crossed as she looked down at her phone. Paige raised an eyebrow, half impressed, half surprised. Azzi looked perfectly at ease, even in the midst of the quiet bustle around her.

Paige’s security guard, always positioned with careful subtlety, took a seat near the door, his gaze scanning the room.

Paige made her way over to Azzi, a small smile tugging at her lips as she approached the table. Azzi’s eyes flicked to the guy that walked in with Paige, a subtle look of confusion crossing her face. Paige settled into the chair across from Azzi and shrugged lightly, her grin a little teasing.

“Security,” Paige said simply.

Azzi gave a small nod. “Ahh, okay.”

For a brief moment, there was a silence between them. Neither spoke, but they both seemed to take a moment to observe each other.

Paige cleared her throat, breaking the quiet, and leaned forward a bit. “Can I get you a coffee?”

Azzi smiled softly at the gesture, standing up gracefully. “We can go up together,” she said.

Paige nodded and stood up as well, the two of them heading toward the counter.

After they ordered their drinks, Paige and Azzi made their way to a booth in the back of the café instead of a regular table. The cozy corner felt more private, offering them a bit more space. They both sat across from one another, and for a moment, neither of them spoke. The soft clinking of mugs and the low hum of background chatter filled the space.

Finally, Paige couldn't help but laugh, breaking the silence. “If you can’t tell, I’m not exactly used to this whole coffee date thing.”

Azzi raised an eyebrow, her lips curving into a playful smile. “Oh, really? I couldn’t tell.” she said sarcastically, clearly a little amused by Paige’s admission.

Paige chuckled at the tone in Azzi’s voice, the subtle tension easing just a little. “Nah,” she said, shaking her head. “I’m just used to…other things.”

Azzi’s eyes glinted with curiosity, she leaned forward slightly. “What do you usually do with women, Paige?”

Before Paige could answer, Azzi added, her tone light but assertive, “And I’m someone who prefers honesty.”

Paige paused for a second, a smirk curling at the corner of her lips. She liked this. Azzi wasn’t playing games. She didn’t want anything sugar-coated, and Paige appreciated that, maybe more than she expected to.

“Well,” Paige started, “usually, women aren’t all that interested in the dating aspect.”

Azzi hummed thoughtfully. She took a slow sip of her coffee, her eyes never leaving Paige’s, studying her with that cool, almost calculating gaze. She set the cup down gently on the table, her fingers brushing against the porcelain as she leaned back slightly.

“I see,” Azzi finally said, her voice soft but tinged with a hint of curiosity. She tilted her head slightly, her gaze narrowing just a touch as she added, “And what were you looking for when you asked to take me out?”

Paige studied Azzi for a moment, taking in the way she carried herself with such quiet confidence. Her brown eyes were soft and inviting, yet still calculated, and the curly hair perfectly pulled out of her face added to the allure of her composure. There was something about the way Azzi held herself—it wasn’t like anyone else Paige had ever met.

A small chuckle escaped Paige’s lips as she shrugged, her shoulders moving in a casual semi playful gesture. It was the same move Lukas had made the other day. Azzi’s eyes softened as she took in Paige’s posture, realizing with a small smile that Lukas definitely got it from her.

Paige leaned back in her seat, studying Azzi for a moment, before answering in a more casual tone. “I wanted to thank the gorgeous woman in front of me for helping my son.”

Azzi’s expression didn’t change at first, but her eyes gleamed with a mix of amusement and something else. “So you wanted to sleep with me?” she asked bluntly.

Paige met Azzi’s gaze directly, her lips curling into a slight smile. “The thought is definitely on the table,” she said, speaking honestly, without any pretense.

Azzi picked up on the way Paige worded her response. “Is?” she repeated, the single word hanging in the air between them.

Paige hummed thoughtfully at the question, leaning in a little closer. “Yeah, is,” she said softly, her voice laced with a quiet confidence that matched Azzi’s own.

Though Azzi carried herself with a poise that was different from the women Paige was used to, there was something about her that Paige couldn’t place. Azzi was calm, composed, but Paige noticed the way Azzi crossed her legs a little more tightly as the conversation shifted. The subtle movement didn’t go unnoticed, and neither did the slight tightening of her throat, a small, almost imperceptible swallow that hinted at a shift in the dynamic.

Paige couldn’t help but smirk, a quiet acknowledgment passing between them without a word being spoken.

Azzi’s lips curved into a small, genuine smile as she met Paige’s gaze again , and then, with a slight tilt of her head, she said, “You’re attractive.”

Paige’s smile only deepened, her confidence never wavering as she responded, “I’m aware.”

Azzi let out a soft laugh. She leaned back slightly in her seat. “But I’m not sleeping with you after one coffee date.”

Paige paused for a moment, considering her words. She wasn’t used to hearing that—at least not in such a direct way. But there was something about Azzi’s honesty that Paige found appealing, something real and refreshing. Finally, she hummed, acknowledging the boundary without pushing. “That’s fair.”

Azzi studied her for a moment, her gaze steady, before asking with that same confidence, “Is that something you’re okay with?”

Paige took a deep breath, her mind running through a series of thoughts before she responded. She could appreciate that Azzi wasn’t playing games, that she wasn’t trying to hide her expectations. Paige took another beat, then added, “Let’s see how this first date goes.”

“That’s fair.”

After that the conversation flowed naturally between them, not forced but easy, the kind of conversation where the gaps in speech felt comfortable rather than awkward. Paige talked about basketball, the upcoming season, and the usual pre-season jitters that came with gearing up with a slightly different roster. She joked about the pressure of always having to be at her best, but Azzi could hear the underlying seriousness in her voice, the weight of a career built on constant performance.

Azzi shared her own experiences, talking about her work with athletes and how she approached sports medicine differently. She explained what a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine was—how she took a more holistic approach to treating injuries, focusing on the body as a whole rather than just isolating the injury. It was clear from the way she spoke that she was passionate about what she did, but Azzi wasn’t sure how much Paige would actually connect with it. After all, most athletes only cared about getting back on the court or field as quickly as possible, and they usually relied on standard physical therapy or rehab.

Much to her surprise, Paige was attentive, asking questions at just the right moments, listening intently. It wasn’t just idle small talk for her; she was engaged, processing what Azzi was saying and chiming in when something in particular piqued her interest. Azzi found herself intrigued by how naturally it came to Paige—how her curiosity and genuine interest seemed to draw out more of Azzi’s thoughts than she had expected to share.

On the other hand, Paige was pleasantly surprised at how much she didn’t mind listening to Azzi explain sports medicine. She had never considered herself the type to get into that side of things, but there was something about Azzi in general that made something that she would typically find a bore to be interesting.

In the middle of their conversation, as Paige was talking about something Azzi had asked her, she noticed movement out of the corner of her eye. A teenage girl had approached their booth hesitantly, and Paige paused mid-sentence. Her eyes softened as she caught the girl’s gaze, and a warm smile spread across her face. Azzi, still talking, didn’t notice at first, and the sudden change in Paige’s demeanor left her slightly confused.

The girl, her voice a bit shaky, asked, “Hi can I get a picture please?”

Paige stood up from the booth without hesitation, her smile never wavering. “Of course,” she said. The girl’s face lit up, and her excitement was palpable as she stepped closer to Paige. Her father, who had been standing a little off to the side, joined them, ready to take the photo.

Azzi watched the scene unfold. She saw how gentle Paige was in her interaction with the fan.

The father snapped the picture, and once he was done, he extended his hand with a grateful smile. “Thank you so much. Huge fans,” he said.

Paige shook his hand with a smile. “Thank you,” she replied, her tone warm but brief, showing how accustomed to this routine she was. As the father and daughter turned to leave, Paige’s voice caught their attention one last time.

“Sorry to ask this,” she said, sounding a little apologetic. “But if you’re planning on posting that, could you wait a few hours until I’m gone? Just wanna enjoy the afternoon, you know?”

The father nodded understandingly. “No problem at all,” he said, and Paige smiled again, grateful.

“Thank you,” she said before turning back to the booth, easing herself back into the seat in front of Azzi, a quiet sigh escaping her lips.

Azzi raised an eyebrow, a small laugh escaping her as Paige settled back into her seat. “Not used to being the center of attention, huh?” she asked with a teasing grin.

Paige shook her head, smiling back at Azzi. “I’m used to it, just...sometimes it’s nice to have a day of peace.” She glanced at Azzi. “Sorry about that.”

Azzi shrugged nonchalantly. “It’s fine. I get it. You’re a big deal.”

Paige couldn’t help but laugh at the comment, a soft chuckle escaping her as she leaned back slightly. “You should see Lukas when kids approach me,” she began, a fond smile tugging at her lips as she thought about her son. “He used to get super jealous—until he realized I was his mom and not theirs. He still gets a little jealous now, but it’s better.”

Azzi smiled, the mention of Lukas bringing something a little lighter to the conversation. “That’s the first time you’ve talked about him today,” she observed, almost surprised.

Paige’s smile deepened. “Yeah, well… kids not exactly first date material,” she said with a slight laugh, as if the idea of talking about her son had never crossed her mind for this kind of setting.

Azzi raised an eyebrow, her lips curving slightly. “I disagree,” she said.

Paige looked at her, a curious glint in her eyes. “Yeah?”

Azzi leaned in a bit, her gaze steady. “I mean, he’s a big part of your life, right?”

Paige nodded, her smile softening. “Yeah, he is.”

Azzi’s expression softened too, her voice carrying a subtle warmth. “Then he’s a part of getting to know you.”

Paige hummed thoughtfully, considering Azzi’s words for a moment. There was a quiet acknowledgment in the way her eyes flickered with a mix of emotions.

Azzi leaned in slightly, her voice inviting. “Tell me about him.”

Paige laughed lightly at the thought of him. “Oh, he’s a handful. Probably two handfuls, honestly,” she said, her smile turning a little more affectionate as she spoke about her son. “He’s smart, always getting into something but he probably gets that from me so I can’t even be upset.”

Azzi smiled. “He’s a cutie.”

This seemed to catch Paige’s attention, her smirk returning. “Hm, is that right?” she said.

Azzi rolled her eyes, recognizing exactly what Paige was implying. “I already told you I thought you were attractive,” she said.

Paige hummed in acknowledgment, a small smirk curling at the corner of her lips. She was about to reply when Azzi’s tone shifted, something more serious slipping in. “Can I ask you something?”

Paige raised an eyebrow, giving her an encouraging nod. “Go ahead.”

Azzi hesitated for a moment, choosing her words carefully. “Lukas is clearly biologically yours,” she began, her gaze steady but gentle, as if she was treading carefully.

Paige immediately caught on to the unspoken question, her expression softening. She leaned back slightly, a quiet honesty in her voice. “My ex gave birth to him using my egg.”

Azzi nodded slowly, processing the information. Paige continued, “I have sole custody of him, if that’s what you’re wondering.”

The air between them shifted, Azzi’s curiosity evident but respectful. “So you don’t have any contact with her anymore, I’m assuming?”

Paige’s eyes darkened slightly, but her response was straightforward. “No.”

Azzi nodded again, a sign of understanding, and didn’t press further as she shifted the conversation back to something lighter.

Their coffee date wrapped up a little while later, both of them glancing at the time as they realized how quickly it had flown by. Azzi had a client scheduled, and Paige had practice waiting for her, the familiar weight of their responsibilities pulling them back into their respective worlds.

As they stood up from the booth, a quiet but comfortable understanding lingered between them. Azzi reached for her bag, giving Paige a small, warm smile. “Well, I guess I’ll let you get back to your day.”

Paige nodded, returning the smile with a softness in her eyes. “Yeah, practice is calling.” She paused, then added, “But this was nice.”

Azzi’s smile widened just a bit. “It was. Maybe we should do it again sometime?”

Paige smirked at this question, “So I wasn’t too arrogant?”

Azzi laughs saying, “Just enough apparently.”

Paige huffed out a laugh saying, “I’ll text you.”

Azzi gave a soft smile. “I look forward to it.” With that she headed toward the door where her driver was waiting to take her to the clinic.

They didn’t exactly plan when or where their second date would happen, but neither of them seemed worried about it.

…

After that day the two of them hadn’t seen one another in some time. Their busy schedules made it hard for them to find time to meet up again. Still they had kept in contact. They had been texting and even had a few phone calls here and there as they got to know one another.

One evening Azzi sat at the bar, sipping on a cocktail and enjoying the women in sports gala around her. The atmosphere was lively, with people mingling, but she wasn’t as interested in the small talk as some others were. She hadn’t expected to run into anyone she knew, but when she saw Paige walking toward the complimentary bar, her attention was immediately drawn.

Azzi leaned back in her seat, observing the scene. Paige’s stride was confident as she approached the bar, her simple presence commanding attention even in a crowd of people. The bartender greeted her with an overly flirtatious smile, her body language completely different than when she served anyone else. Paige gave her a tight, polite smile in return, but it was clear she wasn’t interested.

Azzi’s lips curved into a small smile. She hadn’t expected to see Paige here, but now that she had, she found herself happy to see her again. Azzi reached into her pocket and pulled out her phone, typing a message.

You clean up nice.

Azzi leaned back in her seat, watching Paige as she stood at the bar, the bartender handing her a drink. Paige glanced down at her phone, furrowing her eyebrows in confusion. Azzi watched the gears turn in her head as she scanned the room. A few moments passed before their eyes locked across the space.

A small smirk tugged at the corners of Paige’s lips as she made eye contact with Azzi and raised her eyebrow. Azzi’s pulse quickened just a little, amused by the unspoken challenge. Paige thanked the bartender, tossing a generous tip down before turning toward Azzi.

Azzi stood up from her seat. Before she could say anything, Paige closed the distance between them and leaned in for a quick hug. Azzi didn’t miss the way Paige’s eyes scanned her up and down once they pulled apart—quick, but thorough. Azzi could almost hear the assessment happening behind that sly smirk.

Paige sat down next to Azzi, adjusting her drink in her hand as she got settled.

Azzi leaned back in her seat, her smile softening. "I see you finally noticed me," she teased before she took another sip of her cocktail.

Paige’s eyes met hers as she replied, "Well, you weren't hard to miss. You look amazing.”

Azzi smiled at the compliment, her own eyes giving Paige a once over as she settled next to her. It felt like an unspoken game, both of them sizing each other up without quite saying the obvious. The tension was there. Neither of them had to try too hard to make it noticeable.

“You, enjoying the event?” Azzi asked.

Paige leaned back, looking around the venue before sighing. “Honestly? Hell no. I been bored all night. Networking, small talk, you know the drill. I’d rather be on the court.”

Azzi nodded, understanding immediately. “I get that. It’s hard to get invested in something that feels ingenuine.”

Paige’s lips quirked. “Exactly. But, I’m here, so... might as well make the best of it. Paige pauses for a second smoothly scooting closer to Azzi as she adds, “I think I can have a pretty good time now though.”

Azzi playfully rolls her eyes at this. She had gotten used to Paige’s non stop flirting in the past two weeks. Azzi mumbles, “Whatever.”

Paige chuckled lightly, swirling the ice in her drink before taking another sip. "So," she started, leaning back in her seat and eyeing Azzi with a grin. "What do you do for fun, when you're not, you know, saving athletes from ourselves and texting me at ungodly hours asking about my day?"

Azzi raised an eyebrow, at the question. "First of all, you like it. Second, If I’m being honest, I don’t really get a lot of time for ‘fun,’” she said with a soft laugh. “But when I do give myself a break, I like to get out of the city, maybe take a short trip somewhere.

“Where you like to go?”

Azzi thought about it for a second before saying, “Well you know I like nature so anywhere that doesn’t have light pollution honestly. Somewhere quiet.”

Paige hummed at Azzi’s answer, swirling the ice in her drink. “That actually sounds nice,” she admitted. “I don’t think I’ve seen real stars in years.”

Azzi tilted her head. “What, not even on the road? Some of those late-night flights gotta give you a decent view.”

Paige let out a short laugh. “Maybe, but I’m usually either knocked out or too busy watching film for the next game to notice.” She exhaled, shaking her head slightly. “Honestly, I can’t even remember the last time I went on an actual vacation. Between the WNBA season, Unrivaled, endorsement events, Lukas, and whatever else gets thrown my way… there’s barely any downtime.”

Azzi studied her for a moment, catching something in Paige’s tone that felt just a little heavier than her usual confident energy. “That sounds exhausting,” she said, voice softer. “Do you ever give yourself a chance to just… stop? Even for a second?”

Paige scoffed, leaning back in her seat. “Not really. If I’m not playing, I’m training. If I’m not training, I’m doing media. If I’m not doing media, I’m at some event pretending to care about small talk.” She motioned toward the room with a light laugh, but there was an underlying truth there—one Azzi could see past the bravado.

Azzi tapped her fingers against her glass thoughtfully. “You ever think about forcing yourself to take a break? Even just for a couple days?”

Paige raised an eyebrow at her. “And do what?”

Azzi shrugged. “I don’t know… go somewhere with no cameras, no schedule, no pressure. Just exist for a bit.”

Paige looked at her, a flicker of something in her expression before she smirked. “You offering to be my getaway guide?”

Azzi rolled her eyes, but there was a small smile tugging at her lips. “I’m just saying, if you ever decide to escape for a second, I could give you some ideas.”

Paige held her gaze for a moment before smiling. “Noted.” She took another sip of her drink, then nudged Azzi lightly with her shoulder. “Alright, next question. If you had a weekend off, no responsibilities, no distractions—what’s your ideal way to spend it?”

Azzi leaned back, considering the question. “Easy. A cabin in the mountains, a fire going, no phone, and maybe a book I’ve been meaning to read.”

Paige smirked. “No phone, huh? You’d survive without texting me at midnight?”

Azzi shot her a look, shaking her head with a laugh. “I think I’d manage.”

Paige hummed, tilting her head as if imagining it. “Sounds kinda nice. Maybe I need to consider that too..”

Azzi raised an eyebrow. “Maybe you do.”

Their eyes lingered on each other for a beat longer than necessary before Paige let out a small chuckle and looked down toward her drink.

“And what about you?” Azzi asked, tilting her head slightly. “I remember you saying Lukas is obsessed with building things.”

Paige chuckled at that, shaking her head. “Yeah, I got him his own little tool set and everything. The other day, he convinced me he needed a bigger bed just because he wanted to help build something.”

Azzi laughed, setting her drink down. “He’s got you wrapped around his finger.”

Paige sighed, taking a sip of her drink. “Unfortunately,” she mumbled, though the small smile on her face gave her away.

Azzi smirked. “But I guess this means you’re good at putting things together?”

Paige shrugged. “Yeah, I’m pretty handy around the house.”

Azzi hummed, tapping a finger against her glass. “So I know who to call when I need something built.”

Paige turned to her, raising an eyebrow. “I wasn’t aware you were still in the building stage of a house you’ve lived in for years.”

Azzi shrugged, her expression carefully neutral. “I’m not. But who knows…I was thinking about getting a new entertainment system.”

Paige hummed at the insinuation, her lips twitching into a smirk as she leaned in slightly. “If you want me to come over, you can just ask.”

Azzi took a small sip of her drink before saying, “So, you're open to coming over?”

Paige huffed out a laugh, a glint in her eyes. “I thought we both knew that already.”

Azzi raised an eyebrow, her gaze steady. “I mean, you never really brought it up again after the last time we texted. I just assumed that boat sailed.”

Paige’s lips quirked as she raked her eyes over Azzi’s frame slowly. “Definitely hasn’t sailed.”

For a moment, they both seemed to consider the implications of the words they just exchanged. The air between them a little thick with unspoken tension. They held each other’s gaze, neither of them needing to say much more, as if they both knew exactly where this was heading.

Then, as if on cue, Paige’s phone buzzed in her pocket, snapping them both out of the brief spell. Paige sighed, almost reluctantly breaking eye contact as she pulled the phone out, her expression shifting as she saw Drew’s name on the screen.

She swiped to answer, and immediately, the sound of Lukas’ cries echoed through the speaker. Paige tensed, her whole demeanor changing instantly. “Drew, what the hell is going on?” she asked.

Drew’s voice was frantic, a little apologetic. “I wasn’t looking for like two seconds, and he fell off the stool at the island. His hand’s pretty bad, Paige. He’s crying his eyes out and he’s asking for you. I swear it was only two seconds, I'm sorry.”

Paige’s breath caught in her throat as she clenched her jaw, trying to stay calm. “I told you he couldn’t fucking sit there, Drew,” she muttered, her voice laced with frustration. Drew apologized profusely before asking if he should take Lukas to the ER.

“No, I'll do it. I’m on my way,” Paige said, hanging up quickly. She turned to Azzi, her face drawn with concern. “I’m sorry I have to go. Lukas hurt his wrist and I have to take him to the emergency room.”

Azzi’s eyes widened slightly with immediate concern. “I can look at it if you’d like?” she offered without hesitation.

“Really?” Paige asked, her tone softening.

Azzi nodded with a smile. “Of course.”

Azzi set the glass down on the bar with a soft clink. She turned to Paige, who had already started rising from her seat.

Paige smiled at her, though there was a subtle tension in her posture, a quiet nervous energy she hadn’t shown since they’d met. Azzi caught it immediately. "Ready?" Paige asked, glancing down at her phone again, probably hoping for an update on Lukas.

“Yeah,” Azzi replied, giving Paige a reassuring smile. As they both started walking toward the exit, Azzi noticed how Paige’s pace had quickened as they neared the valet area.

When they reached the valet stand, Paige handed over her ticket. Paige’s nerves were palpable and Azzi noticed her chewing lightly on her bottom lip.

For the first time, Azzi saw the cracks in Paige’s usual confident demeanor. It was an interesting sight, seeing the athlete, usually so poised and composed, so visibly tense. Azzi caught her eye, her voice soft but steady. “Hey.”

Paige met her gaze, blinking, and then looking away. “Hm?”

Azzi stepped closer, her voice calm. “He’ll be fine,” she reassured her. “I promise.”

Paige sighed, her breath a little shaky as she checked her phone again. “I know…I just hate when I’m not there with him when something happens,” she admitted.

Azzi gave her a small, sympathetic smile. Paige noticed how Azzi’s arms had goosebumps from the breeze, her dress not quite enough to shield her from the night chill. Without thinking, Paige slipped off her suit jacket and draped it over Azzi’s shoulders.

Azzi froze for a moment, clearly surprised by the action. She glanced at Paige, her fingers instinctively running over the fabric of the jacket. The warmth from Paige’s body lingered in the material, her scent clinging to the fabric, and Azzi couldn’t ignore the small smile that tugged at her lips. There was something comforting about the action, the quiet care behind it.

"Thanks," Azzi said softly, her voice quieter than usual as she pulled the jacket tighter around herself.

Paige smiled in return, her lips curling up at the corners. “No problem,” she replied, her voice warmer than it had been moments before.

Paige smiled in return, her lips curling up at the corners, though it was a soft, almost vulnerable smile. “No problem,” she replied, her voice warmer than it had been moments before. A second later, the valet pulled up with Paige’s car. Paige walked toward it and opened the passenger door for Azzi.

The gesture once again caught Azzi by surprise, a small but meaningful one that made her chest warm. She knew Paige was worried about her son, likely running through a million thoughts in her head, yet she still made the effort to open the door for her. It wasn’t much, but it meant something.

“Thank you,” Azzi whispered as she slid into Paige’s car. Her words were quiet, but genuine, carrying a touch of warmth that mirrored what she felt in her chest.

Paige nodded and softly shut the door, her hand lingering on the handle for a moment longer than necessary. Then, she walked around the car, giving the valet a tip as she got into the driver’s side. As the door clicked shut Paige put on her seatbelt and adjusted her grip on the wheel before pulling away from the valet stand.

…

As the car came to a stop in front of Paige’s large driveway, Azzi had very little time to process just how beautiful the house was before she and Paige were getting out of the car and heading toward the door. The space was impressive, a blend of modern elegance with a sense of warmth, but Azzi didn’t have much time to linger on the details.

As soon as they stepped inside, Azzi could hear small, almost pitiful whimpers coming from the living room.She instinctively followed Paige as she led the way down the hallway. The moment they reached the living room, Lukas' eyes locked onto Paige, and his face lit up with a mix of relief and sadness.

The boy reached up for his mom, his blue eyes welling with tears again immediately. Paige easily scooped him up into her arms, holding him close, and let him rest his head against her neck. Azzi watched the way Paige instinctively soothed Lukas, rubbing a gentle hand along his back.

Paige had rolled the sleeves of her dress shirt up on the drive over, the cuffs left undone, a casual detail that gave her an even more relaxed appearance. But now, with Lukas in her arms, Azzi couldn’t stop herself from noticing how effortless it all seemed. The way she moved, the way she was comforting her son—it was magnetic, and Azzi was acutely aware of how attracted to Paige she felt in that moment.

Paige sat down on the couch, cradling Lukas in her lap, her hands gently rubbing his back in an attempt to calm him down. The small boy whimpered slightly, still upset, his eyes swollen from the earlier tears. Paige leaned down to look at him as she spoke.

“Can you let Azzi look at your wrist, buddy?” she asked. Lukas’s eyes welled with fresh tears at the mention of someone touching his injury. He shook his head a little, clearly reluctant to have anyone near it.

Paige sighed softly, her thumb brushing against his cheek in an effort to soothe him. “Remember what I told you about being tough, even when you don’t want to?” she said, her voice steady, but full of warmth. Lukas hesitated for a moment, his pout deepening, but after a few seconds, he nodded slowly.

Paige smiled at him reassuringly. “This is one of those times, okay? But I’m going to be right here with you while she looks at it.” She made sure her voice was steady, offering him comfort in the midst of his hesitation.

Lukas sniffled but nodded again, still clinging to his mom. Azzi smiled sympathetically as she walked over to the couch, reaching for Paige’s jacket. She carefully slid it off her shoulders before draping it over the back of the couch. She then took a seat in front of Lukas and smiled at him sweetly, hoping to put him at ease.

“Hi, handsome,” Azzi said warmly.

Lukas’s face lit up for a brief moment, and Azzi caught the faintest hint of a grin forming on his lips. But before he could fully show it, he blushed shyly, quickly ducking his face into Paige’s chest, hiding from Azzi.

Paige’s jaw dropped slightly and she looked down at her son who was hiding in her chest. “No way, you just made my son blush,” she said.

Azzi laughed. “I’m pretty, what can I say?” she responded, raising an eyebrow with a confident smile.

Paige couldn't do anything but laugh as she continued to stroke Lukas’s hair.

Azzi refocused as Lukas peeked at her from behind Paige, his attention now on her. Azzi leaned forward slightly, her tone gentle. "I’m just going to take a quick look at your wrist, okay?"

Lukas nodded, though his face still held a trace of uncertainty. Azzi reached for his hand gently, unwrapping the makeshift wrap with careful hands. As she finished undoing the wrap, she set it aside before giving Lukas a soft, reassuring smile. “If anything hurts, can you tell me?” she asked.

Lukas nodded, and Azzi could see that he was trying to be brave, even if his little body still trembled here and there. She smiled at him again, her tone soft and still as patient as ever as she moved slower than usual. “You’re doing great.”

Azzi began near his elbow, gently squeezing the area there and watching for any signs of discomfort. When Lukas didn’t flinch or pull away, she continued to slowly move down his arm.

When she finally reached his wrist, she squeezed the red, portion carefully, her eyes immediately noticing the small flinch from Lukas. He whimpered, trying to pull his hand away, but Azzi was quick to adjust, maintaining a gentle hold to keep him from fully pulling away.

“Hey, Lukas,” she said softly. “Can you move your hand like this for me?” Azzi demonstrated by making a small motion with her own wrist, gesturing for him to follow.

Lukas hesitated for a second before slowly mimicking the motion with his own wrist, wincing slightly as he did so. Azzi watched carefully. “Good job,” she praised him before instructing, “Now, can you move it in the opposite direction like this?”

Lukas’s brow furrowed slightly, but he nodded and followed her lead, turning his wrist in the opposite direction, though more slowly this time. Azzi’s smile widened slightly as she observed how brave he was being, even if it wasn’t easy for him.

“Look at you, tough guy,” she whispered, still holding his hand gently as she kept a watchful eye on his reactions.

Azzi smiled warmly at Lukas, giving his hand a gentle squeeze. “All done,” she said softly. She glanced up at Paige. “He’ll be fine. He just needs a little ice.”

Paige looked at Azzi with a hint of disbelief, as if she was searching for more confirmation. “Really?” she asked.

Azzi nodded. “Yes, really. It’s just a little sore. Nothing serious.”

Paige let out a deep breath, her shoulders relaxing as the tension drained from her body. “Thank god,” she muttered, a relieved laugh slipping from her lips. She looked down at Lukas, who had calmed down a little, his small hands still clutching her.

“Dude, you almost gave me a heart attack,” Paige teased as she gently ruffled his hair. Lukas let out a small giggle, a faint smile creeping onto his face.

Paige’s eyes softened as she looked at him. “Can you say thank you to Azzi?” she prompted, guiding Lukas’s attention back to the woman who had just helped him.

Lukas hesitated for a moment, his eyes darting up to meet Azzi’s. The instant their gazes locked, his cheeks flushed bright red. He quickly ducked his head, burying his face into Paige’s chest again.

Paige froze, staring at Lukas for a moment in shock. She’d never seen him act shy like this before. Lukas was always the confident little charmer, always trying to impress girls. But now, here he was, hiding in her chest, blushing like a little kid. It took her completely off guard.

Before she could say anything, Drew, sitting across the room with his arms crossed, raised an eyebrow and grinned. "I think Luke has a little crush."

Lukas’s head whipped around instantly, his eyes wide with shock, and he yelled, “No!” at the top of his lungs, his face now a deeper shade of red.

Drew chuckled. “Nah, it’s okay, man,” he teased, leaning back on the couch. “We all get crushes.”

Lukas was having none of it. He jumped off Paige’s lap, completely ignoring the pain in his wrist now as he rushed towards Drew, fists raised.

“Hey, hey, careful!” Drew laughed, raising his hands defensively. But Lukas was determined, throwing playful punches at his uncle, clearly more upset about the teasing than the injury.

Paige, still sitting on the couch, watched the little scuffle unfold, but when she saw Lukas’s hands flying, her tone became more serious. “What did I tell you about hitting?” she asked firmly.

Lukas froze mid-swing, his little arms still outstretched in the air, and his eyes widened as he realized he’d crossed the line.

“I’m sorry, Ma,” he mumbled, dropping his hands and looking down at the floor, a little embarrassed.

Paige sighed, but the edge in her voice softened as she gently pulled him back into her lap. “It’s okay, but you know better than that. We don’t solve problems with our fists,” she said softly, brushing a hair away from his face. “Can you apologize to Uncle Drew now?”

Lukas gave Drew a look of mild defiance but reluctantly said, “Sorry, Uncle Drew.”

Drew chuckled, his hands up in mock surrender. “No worries, buddy. Just don’t go knocking me out, alright?”

Realizing she hadn't introduced them, Paige quickly turned to Azzi, a small smile tugging at the corner of her lips. "Oh, Azzi, this is Drew, my brother. Drew, this is Azzi," she said, gesturing between the two of them.

Drew smiled warmly. "Nice to meet you," Azzi said politely, her eyes flicking to the little boy in Paige’s lap.

Drew nodded at Azzi. "The pleasure’s mine," he said, before shifting his attention back to Lukas, who was now squirming in Paige’s lap. Without missing a beat, Drew scooped Lukas up, holding him upside down. "Alright, Imma go finish my uncle duties and get this dude ready for bed."

Lukas let out a dramatic screech, kicking his legs as Drew playfully dangled him. “No! Not bed!” Lukas whined, but Drew just chuckled, walking toward the stairs with Lukas hanging upside down in his arms.

Paige laughed at their antics, shaking her head. “Y'all are crazy,” she yelled after them.

Turning her attention back to Azzi, Paige exhaled a relieved sigh. “Thank you, really. I didn’t know what I’d do without you tonight,” she said.

Azzi gave her a soft smile, nodding. "No problem at all. I’m just glad I could help.”

Paige leaned back into the couch, her shoulders relaxing. “I owe you one,” she added, her gaze lingering on Azzi a little longer this time.

Azzi caught the look, and for a second, the playful tension between them reappeared. "I’m sure I’ll think of a way for you to make it up to me," Azzi teased, her soft smile still on her face.

Paige tilted her head, smirking in return. "Oh, yeah?" she asked.

Azzi hummed.

“Like what?”

Azzi’s gaze dropped just briefly to Paige's lips, a small spark of something passing between them. Paige noticed the subtle shift and leaned in just slightly, her eyes never leaving Azzi’s, her finger brushing lightly against Azzi's shoulder as she waited for an answer.

Azzi's breath hitched slightly, but she pulled back, her eyes still locked onto Paige's. "Like getting me home safely," she said, her voice soft.

Paige threw her head back against the couch with a soft laugh, running her hands down her face. After a beat, she sat up again, turning her attention back to Azzi with a smirk that was impossible to miss.

"Getting you home safely, huh?" Paige said, her tone a little more teasing now, her eyes gleaming with that signature confidence.

Azzi met her gaze, her lips curling into a subtle smile. "Mhm," she confirmed, the warmth in her voice matching the look in her eyes.

"I think I can handle that."

With that, Paige stood and offered Azzi a hand to help her up from the couch. Azzi took it, feeling the small jolt of energy from the touch. She started to rise, but before she could, Paige’s next words stopped her in her tracks.

"You sure I can’t give you a tour before we head out?" Paige’s question was smooth, casual, but there was an edge to it. The way Paige’s blue eyes sparkled made it clear that she wasn’t just offering a tour of the house.

Azzi was about to agree, the invitation on the tip of her tongue, but then she caught that smirk on Paige’s face—the way she was looking at her. They both knew what would happen if Paige led her into her bedroom, and Azzi wasn’t sure she was quite ready for that leap—at least, not tonight.

"I think I’ll pass on that," Azzi said, her tone light and teasing, her eyes dancing with the same playful energy.

Paige raised an eyebrow, that glint still lingering in her expression. "Mm, okay." Then she gently placed her hand on Azzi’s lower back. The contact sent a ripple of warmth through Azzi’s body, and she felt the pressure of Paige’s palm guiding her toward the door.

Without another word, Paige led her out of the house, the night air surrounding them as they walked to the car. Neither of them spoke immediately, but the silence between them wasn’t uncomfortable.

As they reached the car, Paige opened the door for Azzi, her hand lingering just a little longer than necessary on her back.

Azzi smiled softly, her heart racing a little faster than it probably should have as she sat in the passenger seat. Paige gently shut the door before she walked around to the driver's side. As Azzi waited, she couldn't help but glance out the window, her eyes landing on the two other cars in the driveway.

Paige noticed the shift in her attention, and spoke up. "I use that one," she nodded toward the blackout jeep, "when I'm taking Lukas with me. Has his car seat in it."

Azzi nodded, her gaze following Paige's hand as she gestured to the car they were in. "And this one?" Azzi asked.

Paige smirked, clearly enjoying the chance to show off a little. "This one’s got a better tint and it’s faster," she explained. "I use it for events and things like that." She paused, her eyes meeting Azzi's. "Keeps things a little more private."

Azzi raised an eyebrow, the hint of a smile tugging at her lips. "Private, huh?" she teased, as she considered the implications of that.

Paige's lips curved into a smile of her own. "Well," she said, her tone shifting to something a little more flirtatious, "you never know who might be watching."

Azzi couldn't help but laugh softly. There was something about the way Paige carried herself—confident, self-assured, but still a little obnoxious—that Azzi found undeniably magnetic. It was hard to ignore the chemistry between them anytime they spoke.

Azzi simply shrugged, keeping the mood light. "Guess I'll have to keep that in mind," she replied, her gaze lingering on Paige for a moment longer than she intended.

Paige chuckled softly, shaking her head as she shifted the car into drive. The drive to Azzi’s place was smooth, the low hum of the engine and the occasional soft exchange of words filling the space. The atmosphere between them felt comfortable, even with the unspoken tension lingering in the air.

When they finally pulled up to Azzi's place, Paige parked the car, and before Azzi could even reach for the door handle, Paige was already walking around to the passenger side. She opened the door for her as she extended a hand to help Azzi out.

Azzi smiled and placed her hand in Paige’s. “Thank you again,” she said softly, the sincerity in her voice clear.

Paige gave her hand a gentle squeeze before releasing it. She followed Azzi up the path to her door, her footsteps quiet beside Azzi’s heels clicking against the pavement as they approached the front steps. Once they reached the door, Paige paused, leaning back against the railing.

“Thank you for your help… again,” Paige said. There was a certain softness to her voice that made the words feel more personal than just a simple thanks.

Azzi glanced at Paige, their eyes meeting for a brief moment before she stepped a little closer, the sharp click of her heels against the pavement adding a rhythmic sound to the quiet of the night as her perfume filled Paige’s senses at the proximity.

“No problem,” Azzi replied with a small smile, her voice just as soft as before. She took a small step closer, her gaze never leaving Paige's face.

Paige felt a surge of warmth, a quiet pull between them that made her a little excited. She kept her hands in her pockets, not moving but fully aware of how close Azzi had gotten.

Neither of them said anything for a moment, just standing there, the space between them filled with something that neither could name.

Azzi's voice broke the quiet moment. "So, about that second date?" She paused, watching Paige carefully. "What's your schedule like?"

Paige pulled her phone out of her pocket, flicking through her calendar. She turned the screen toward Azzi with a half smile.

Azzi accepted the phone gently, her fingers brushing against Paige’s as she did so. She pulled out her own phone and began comparing their schedules, the two of them silent for a few moments as she browsed through the information. When she found a time that worked for both of them, she tapped in the details and then, without asking, added it to Paige's calendar.

Paige watched with an amused grin as Azzi took charge of the timing. "You didn’t even ask," Paige said playfully.

Azzi looked up, catching the glint in Paige’s eye, and shrugged with a soft smile. "I’m just being efficient," she replied, handing the phone back.

Paige glanced at her phone, noticing that Azzi had put the date for the day after tomorrow. A smile tugged at the corners of her lips as she locked the phone and slid it back into her pocket.

Azzi spoke, her voice quieter, almost grateful. "Thank you for getting me home safely."

Paige's smile softened as she met Azzi’s gaze. "Anytime," she replied, her words almost too easy, as if the offer to look out for Azzi was something she genuinely wanted to give.

Azzi bit her lip, clearly holding back something, before she leaned in and placed a soft kiss on Paige's cheek. The action was quick but warm, and it sent a small shock of heat through Paige’s chest. "Goodnight, Paige," Azzi whispered.

"Goodnight, Azzi," Paige responded, her voice lower than usual. The moment lingered between them as they hugged, Azzi’s arms wrapping around Paige’s shoulders, and Paige’s arms gently pulling Azzi closer by the waist.

Azzi watched as Paige turned to walk toward her car, her eyes following every step. Paige stopped before getting in the car and leaned over the driver’s side door slightly, her voice cutting through the night air.

"I'll pick you up on Wednesday?"

Azzi’s smile grew at the offer. "You’ll pick me up Wednesday," she said.

Paige nodded, watching as Azzi unlocked her door and stepped inside before getting in her car and driving off.

[scoupsakakitty]

hii I've been twirling my hair while reading your seventeen x 14th member series, bc they are just soo good!!! can I request for svt doing the different types of love language to reader. thank uuu smmm 🤍

Love Languages | Seventeen x 14thMember | fluff

The members of Seventeen, along with their 14th member, Y/N, were seated in a cozy interview studio. The atmosphere was warm and relaxed as the interviewer, a woman with a bright smile, shuffled through her cards before looking up at them.

"Seventeen, welcome! It’s always a pleasure to have you all here," she greeted.

"Thank you for having us!" the group responded in unison.

The interviewer chuckled before turning her attention to Y/N. "Alright, Y/N, this question is actually the most asked one by your fans. Are you ready?"

Y/N let out a playful laugh. "Oh no, should I be scared?"

"Not at all!" the interviewer reassured. "The fans are dying to know: What are the different love languages of the thirteen members of Seventeen?"

Y/N gasped dramatically, making the members laugh. "Oh wow, you’re really putting me on the spot! Okay, okay, let’s do this. I think I know them well enough."

The members leaned in, eager to hear what she had to say.

She started with S.Coups. "Our leader’s love language is definitely acts of service. He always makes sure we’re taken care of—whether it’s ordering food, checking in on our health, or making sure we’re not overworking ourselves."

S.Coups nodded in agreement. "That’s true. Taking care of you guys is my priority."

Next was Jeonghan. "He loves quality time. He’ll casually pull you aside to sit together in silence or ask you to play a game with him. Even if we’re just sitting next to each other doing nothing, he enjoys that."

Jeonghan smirked. "It’s because your company is entertaining."

Joshua, on the other hand, was all about words of affirmation. "He’s always hyping us up, telling us we did great, and reminding us how much he appreciates us."

Joshua laughed. "Well, I mean it every time! You guys are amazing."

Jun, Y/N explained, was a physical touch person. "He’s always hugging people, patting their heads, or just randomly leaning on someone."

Jun grinned. "I just like feeling close to my members!"

Hoshi, on the other hand, had a mix of words of affirmation and physical touch. "He’ll tell you he loves you while aggressively shaking your shoulders."

Hoshi burst out laughing. "That’s how you know I mean it!"

When it came to Wonwoo, Y/N described him as a quality time person. "He won’t say much, but if he invites you to read or watch something with him, that means he loves you."

Wonwoo nodded approvingly. "Exactly. Actions speak louder than words."

Woozi’s love language was acts of service. "He expresses love by writing songs for us and working hard to make sure we have the best music."

Woozi shrugged. "It’s just how I show I care."

DK, Y/N continued, was another words of affirmation king. "He constantly tells us how much he loves and appreciates us."

DK grinned. "Of course! Gotta remind my members how amazing they are."

Mingyu had a mix of physical touch and acts of service. "He’ll cook for you, then give you a backhug while you eat."

Mingyu beamed. "Because food tastes better when shared!"

The8 valued quality time. "He likes deep conversations and spending meaningful time with us, even if it’s just chilling in the practice room."

"It’s all about genuine connections," The8 agreed.

Seungkwan, according to Y/N, was both words of affirmation and acts of service. "He’ll hype you up, but also take care of you like a mom."

Seungkwan rolled his eyes playfully. "Because you all need someone to keep you in check!"

As for Vernon, he was a mix of quality time and physical touch. "He’s very subtle about it, but if he’s sitting next to you for a long time or playfully nudging you, that’s his way of showing love."

Vernon shrugged. "Sounds about right."

And finally, the maknae. "Dino is all about physical touch and words of affirmation. He loves holding hands and hyping us up with little speeches."

Dino grinned proudly. "Because I want everyone to feel happy!"

The interviewer looked impressed. "Wow, that was so detailed! Y/N, you really know your members well."

"Of course! Living with these 13 means you get to know them inside and out," Y/N replied with a smile.

S.Coups grinned mischievously. "We should do this for Y/N next!"

The rest of the group cheered in agreement. "Yes! Next time, we reveal Y/N’s love language!"

The interview ended with laughter, the group teasing Y/N playfully, proving once again just how close they all were.

[stxxrlights]

#𝐃𝐑𝐔𝐍𝐊!𝐒𝐔𝐊𝐔𝐍𝐀

drunk!sukuna who's friends call you to come pick him up because he is completely wasted. telling you that he won't stop whining your name and refuses to go with any of them. they apologize for interrupting your night but you don't mind.

drunk!sukuna who does not recognize you at first and swats your hand away everytime you try to touch him. "don't-don't touch me or i'll tell my girl-girlfriend. she's way scarier than me. and so much prettier than you".

drunk!sukuna who apologizes when he confirms that it's you over and over again with glossy eyes while his friends just shake their heads at his drunken antics. "why didn't you say it was you baby? now i feel so bad~"

drunk!sukuna who has to lean against you to walk straight and to the car as he starts blabbing about his day and other nonsense and now you truly believe that he is infact extremely wasted.

drunk!sukuna who pins you against the wall when you close the front door of your shared home trying to steal a kiss from you but you refuse though he keeps on trying. landing his kisses on your cheeks, forehead, nose but not where he wants to. "stop moving and let me love you!" "you have to brush your teeth first" "fine!"

drunk!sukuna who refuses to drink a glass of water that you hand him. he's furrowing his eyebrows, arms crossed over his chest as he looks at it disgustingly. "you have to drink some water, kuna" "no!" "pretty please!... for me" "...okay..."

drunk!sukuna who you help shower to prepare him for bed as he can't really do anything by himself now. but the entire time he's staring at you and relishing in the feeling on your hands roaming around his body, his cheeks growing pink as he falls more in love with you.

drunk!sukuna who starts talking about how lucky he is to have found someone like you. how it makes his heart skip a bit anytime you're worried about him and when you do cute gestures for him. he tells you that words alone can not describe how much he loves you.

drunk!sukuna who sets you on the counter as you dry his hair while his hands are firmly placed on your hips still watching you. he wants to be as close to you as he possibly can, always holding you.

drunk!sukuna who demands kisses all over his face before he goes to bed and makes you declare your love for him. "it's enough now kuna. you need to rest" "no... i need twenty more kisses and a dozen i love you's"

drunk!sukuna who finally falls asleep after his well deserved kisses and affirmations. you watch as his chest rises up and down and his lashes resting on his cheeks. he just looks so beautiful and you can't stop thinking about how soft drunk!sukuna is.

drunk!sukuna who wraps his arms around you when you get into bed with him and surprisingly he places a kiss on your forehead and in a husky voice says, "thank you for taking care of me princess. i love you so much, sweet dreams"

#comments and reblogs are appreciated

[wordsofelie]

🔭Saturn

part of my observatory event, requested by @stellar-haikyuu <3

kuroo tetsurou x f!reader

summary: you’ve finally found a rival who meets your standards. too bad the man is the most infuriating, stupid and annoying person on earth.

content warnings: high school setting, hurt/comfort, sports / academic rivals, swearing, reader kinda has an inferiority complex

words count: 1.4k

It started as a game. A silly, stupid, little game.

At least, that’s what you told yourself at first.

You’ve always been rather—competitive. Ever since you were a kid, you chased after every first place, every gold medal, every record waiting to be broken. Higher grades, longer races in PE, and everything else that would make you better. And then, you found volleyball—a sport that only fed that hunger, made the desire to win burn even brighter.

But before, no one had ever truly met your standards.

That is, until you met him.

Kuroo Tetsurou.

You became classmates in your first year of high school. You didn’t pay much attention to him on your first day (he seemed like the perfect depiction of a teenage boy—messy-haired, slouched over his desk, probably more interested in making dirty jokes than studying). But when the first chemistry grades came, your jaw dropped—that bastard had a better score than you. Maybe it was chance, you tried to tell yourself at first, but the semester passed, and his grades only improved.

“Need something?” is the first thing he ever asked you.

You didn’t realise you were staring at the paper in his hands until his voice reached your ears.

“I don’t,” you quickly regained your composure, clearing your throat and lifting up your chin.

His mouth turned into a side smirk. Infuriating. “Cause I can tutor you if you want.”

That motherfucker, is the only way you could describe Kuroo at this moment. You gripped your pen like it was his throat. Your hands clenched so hard your nails dug into your palms.

Still, you forced a smile in return, “I’ll pass thanks.”

“Too bad. I’ve got the annals from last year’s exam at home. I could’ve lent them to you. Or maybe they’d be too hard for you to understand.” He rested his chin in his palm calmy, looking almost bored.

Oh, you were going to kill him.

“Don’t bother, I fear I might smash your face with the book.”

His eyes widened in surprise, but his laid-back attitude came back just as fast.

“You can try, but I don’t think you can reach me. I’ve seen you play, I jump higher than you, you know.”

“Wow. Real mature-”

You were convinced the game could have gone on for hours, but unfortunately—or fortunately—the bell rang, and the class got dismissed.

You remember watching him getting up. If you didn’t just get belittled by him maybe you could have given credit to his looks. Tall, athletic, confident. That’s what Kuroo was like in your eyes. If he didn’t have a shitty personality and a stupid hairstyle you think that maybe he could have been less unbearable. But as you got out of the classroom, you only wanted to prove him wrong and dethrone him.

Your first-ever interaction transformed into a declaration of war. And the war lasted all high school.  Because, obviously, Kuroo wasn’t just good in chemistry—maths, physics, PE. Teachers loved him, praised him, classmates laughed with him. He was perfect in everything. And what made your blood boil in your veins was how effortless he made everything look. You sacrificed so much to be where you were, gave so much passion and time into school that you couldn’t stand the sight of him acting like it was easy.

And he played volleyball, which gave you even more reason to compare yourself to him.

It got worse when you both became captains of your team. You started comparing scores and blocks and victories.

At first, you liked the unspoken rule between you—the constant back and forth, the rivalry that kept you both on edge whether it was for school or volleyball.

Then, it became an obsession.

You started waking up earlier to go for a run, going to bed later to study for exams. You did everything you could and still—he was better.

You remember seeing Kuroo once on the sidelines at one of your practice matches, grinning at you with hands on his hips. “You’re looking a little slow today, Captain.”

You shot him a glare.

“Why are you even here Kuroo?” You spat once the game was over. “You’re not gonna get any girls with that haircut, you know.”

“Making fun of my hair again? You’re getting a little repetitive these days.” He chuckled. Gosh, you hated this laugh. “Besides, there’s only one girl I want attention from.”

You rolled your eyes and walked away, but deep down, your heart was pounding fast. You hated how good he was. You hated that he pushed you to be better. And more than anything—you hated how much he could control your emotions, making you sad and angry and frustrated just by being close to you.

The Inter-High qualifications arrived too fast, but you were ready.

Your team had trained relentlessly. You’d pushed yourself harder than ever, and now, it was time to prove that you could do this. That you could win.

You made it to the semi-finals. You were so close.

And then—you lost.

You didn't even make it to the finals, let alone Nationals. Your dream shattered in front of you, a cruel joke the universe had played at your expense.

You shook hands with the winning team, congratulated them like a good athlete should. Then you headed to the locker room, collapsing onto the bench; your throat was tight and your eyes burnt.

You didn't hear the door opening.

And a few seconds later, you knew he was here.

You hated him. Kuroo Tetsurou.

You hated him from the bottom of your heart.

And that hatred only grew bigger now that he was standing there, hands in his pockets, ready to make fun of your loss.

“I’m not in the mood for your teasing, Kuroo.”

Silence.

Then, softly: “I’m not here to tease.”

You finally looked up. His usual smirk was nowhere to be found, you almost missed it. Your eyes immediately stared at the floor again. “I just-” He exhaled, rubbing the back of his neck. “You don’t deserve this.”

You scoffed, bitter. “Yeah? Tell that to the scoreboard.”

Kuroo took a step closer. “I know how much this meant to you.”

Your jaw tightened. You couldn't look at him. If you did, you’d break. And you didn't want to break in front of him.

“Don’t you ever get tired of always winning?”

Kuroo blinked in surprise. “What?”

“You’re always ahead. Always. You beat me in volleyball. You beat me in grades. You beat me at everything. It’s exhausting.” Your voice cracked, and you hated it. “I’ve spent years trying to keep up with you. And now-” You laughed, but it was humourless. “Now, you get to go to Nationals while I sit at home and watch.”

Kuroo frowned. He opened his mouth—you saw it from the corner of your eyes. “I never—”

“You never what?” you snapped. “Never tried to one-up me? Never enjoyed being better than me? Cause I’m way behind you, aren’t I?”

“That’s not-” He sighed, running a hand through his hair. “I never wanted to beat you.”

“Bullshit. Every time we got a grade, you asked to see mine. You came to every practice game, telling me I could do more. You stayed late after school just to show me how your receives were better than mine. At tournament, you came in the frontline just to see me lose and-”

Kuroo shook his head. “It’s not that-” He hesitated. “You inspire me.”

Your heart stopped beating for a second, or two. “What?”

“You’re the best opponent I’ve ever had,” he admitted. “And yeah, I like pushing you, but not because I want to humiliate you. I just-” He rubbed the back of his neck. For the first time in the three years you had known him, he looked nervous. “I like seeing you play. I like watching you get better.”

You stared at him. This—this wasn't how your conversations usually went. Kuroo was supposed to be smug, sarcastic, insufferable. Not… this.

Not kind.

“I don’t need your pity,” you finally muttered as you looked away.

Kuroo stepped closer again and knelt down in front of you. “It’s not pity.”

“Then what is it?” The words quieted one after the other.

He seemed to be looking for the right words. But then—

“I’m going to miss you.”

You froze and your heart stuttered, and you hated that it did. (Or maybe the feeling wasn’t so bad, maybe you didn’t hate it, maybe you could get used to it.)

“What the hell is that supposed to mean?” you asked. You tried to sound annoyed instead of breathless, but your voice betrayed you.

Kuroo grinned—soft, for once. “It means I don’t want this to be the end of our game. Even in uni, even when we’re old and can’t play volleyball anymore, I want you to remain my best opponent.”

You stared at him. He was serious.

“You’re an idiot.”

He chuckled. “Maybe.”

A few seconds passed before he spoke again. With his usual smirk and his stupid bed hair, he asked: “Need something?”

And then—because you were exhausted, because you’d lost everything that day, because you didn't have the energy to fight anymore—you let yourself leaned into him, just a little.

His arms were warm as they wrapped around you.

Tears started falling from your eyes, your muscles eased. Everything hurt and softened at the same time.

He was right. Maybe this wasn't the end of the game.

Maybe it was just a new round.

a/n: i had so much fun writing this <33

thank you so so much to @keishuii for beta-reading it, you’re the best!!

[lookingforuravity]

CHAPTER 2: TAKE MY HEAD AND DRIVE ME HEAD-FIRST

now playing ♫ fearless by taylor swift

word count: 1,297 words

a/n: this was uploaded before but i posted it by accident without realizing hours later then panic-deleted it

series masterlist | prev chap. | next chap.

The regret immediately seeped into my chest when I accepted Mina's request. Like I said before, parties weren't my thing. They've never appealed to me, especially on Fridays. Fridays were for my weekly ‘Bridget Jones’ series binge watching. Breaking my weekly ritual practically felt like a sin.

I stood in a corner, people-watching as I rested the red solo cup on my lips. The loud music thumped the ground so violently it was making my head hurt.

The room was filled with somewhat familiar faces but it didn't calm my nerves down any less. I still nervously bit the rim of my cup and aggressively played with charm on my necklace.

“Y/N!” Mina’s shout snapped me out of my thoughts, her hands on my shoulders. Her freshly dyed pink hair bounced up and down as she jumped to the music. “Why are you just sulking over here? Come have fun!”

I chuckled dryly as I took a sip of the only liquid I could find that wasn't alcohol. “I'm fine here, Mina. I'll just wait until you're done so I can drive you home.” I told her.

Mina pouted and trailed her hands down to my wrists, playfully swinging my arms around as she started to drag me away from the comfort of the random corner I found. “Don't be such a party pooper! I took you here so you can meet people and put yourself out there!” She whined, dancing along with the music as she pulled me away into the crowd.

“I'm fine over here, honestly—”

“No!” She cut me off abruptly, placing a finger on my lips to silence me. “You're gonna have fun and you're gonna like it!”

The vibrations of the music pumped through my whole body. As I glanced around the room, I was able to see more of the people that attended the parties. I could've talked around while Mina was doing God knows what, I went to school with everyone here. There's a high chance I have stuff in common with them, but I'm too awkward to start a conversation. I'll run out of words to say then eventually find a dumb excuse to stop talking and walk away.

Now that I think of it, that's probably why I never dated anybody…

“Guys, this is my friend! Say hi, y/n!” I heard Mina say which instantly made me snap out of my thoughts. I was met with the gaze of who I assumed were Mina's close friends.

I recognized most of them. I'm friends with Ochaco, but I knew of Izuku, Kirishima, Denki, Sero, and—

Bakugou.

I knew him. Of course I did, who didn't? He made a pretty rash reputation of himself for being rude and stuck up. We had some mutual friends, like Mina and Ochaco, but either than that I never really felt a need to speak to him.

But if Mina wants me to be friends with her friends, I guess I could try.

Even if it's insanely awkward.

Bakugou doesn't even know how he ended up at this party. He'd much rather be at home than hanging out with these brainless, drunk idiots. The stench of liquor and sweat filled his nostrils, causing his face to look more disgusted than it already does. The only reason he even showed up was so Mina and Kirishima would stop nagging at him.

But now, standing in front of this cute girl, he didn't regret showing up one bit.

“Heyyy Y/n! Nice to meet ya!” Denki slurred, throwing an arm over her shoulder as he could barely keep his balance.

Bakugou rolled his eyes at his drunken state and could barely hold back a scoff as the rest of the group introduced drunkenly introduced themselves.

“Nice to meet you too..” Her voice was barely audible over the loud music, the only way he was able to make out what she was saying was by reading her lips.

She wasn't what Bakugou was expecting at all. Mina spoke of Y/n in the past, describing her as this outgoing, soft-hearted girl who loved talking about things she liked.

But all he was seeing in front of her was a pretty girl who looked like she wanted to get out of this place.

Before anyone could say anything else, someone shouted from the balcony—

“Shots everyone!”

And everyone ran out the house.

The rest of their friends quickly rush past Y/n, leaving only her and Bakugou behind. She awkwardly shifted the weight between her feet, playing with her cup as she avoided eye contact.

“Hey.” He called out.

Her eyes widened and shot up to look at him. “Uh.. Hi.”

“Bakugou” He stuck out his hand, waiting for her to shake it, which was weird and out-of-character for him. He was never the type of person to be friendly towards someone he just met, hell he wasn't even the type of person to be friendly at all.

She softly smiled at him and took his hand. “I know who you are. I'm Y/n.”

Bakugou continued shaking her hand. It was soft, much softer than he expected it to be.

He dropped her hand and awkwardly cleared his throat, leaning up against the wall as he eyed her up and down. “Don't talk to you much, but you don't seem like the party type, huh?”

She shrugged, still shifting her weight side to side as she had a tight lipped smile on her face. “Not necessarily… I'm only here cause Mina asked me to come.”

“That so?” He said, crossing his arms over his chest.

She nodded then walked up next to him to lean up against the wall as well. “Yeah.. What about you?” She asked, her head slightly tilting to the side in question. “I don't think you're the party type either.”

“Just came to stop Kirishima from bitching is all”

She snorted, and for some reason the sound put a pressure in Bakugou's chest. Her hand quickly coming up to her face to cover her mouth as she laughed silently.

A couple of seconds went by where the two didn't say anything. But it wasn't uncomfortable. Just quiet.

“That's all?” He questioned, asking if that was the only reason she showed up to the party.

“Hm.. I don't know. I thought something interesting was gonna happen.”

He turned his head to look at her, slightly intrigued by her admission. “Hm… like what exactly?”

“I don't know. Someone cool, maybe? You get what I'm saying”

His smirk grew as he leaned over slightly. She's pretty AND looking for a relationship? Bakugou was sure he hit the jackpot tonight. “Yeah I get it. What? I'm not cool enough for you?”

“Huh?”

Okay… maybe that hint wasn't very obvious. But surely she was just playing hard to get, right?

“Nothin..” He muttered, his smirk slightly faltering but still stitched upon his face.

“Do you think I'll meet a cute boy here?”

…

She had to be kidding.

Did she really not notice that he'd been flirting with her this whole time?

He squinted his eyes as he studied her face. Nope, she was a hundred percent serious. She did not get any of his hints.

Is this girl really that dense?

“If you open your eyes a bit more, maybe.” He gruffed, chugging down his drink and glancing off to the side.

“Huh?”

Sure, Y/n was a bit dense. But she had Bakugou immensely intrigued.

TAGLIST [35/50]: @ditsyngel @shibuyablonde @lotusstarr @katsulina @wonubby @kalulakunundrum @tamishadawn @bangersplusmash @erenjaegerswifeee @r9yri @aa-soo @shewki @rednicotine @jaguarthecat @katsuisbaby @snoozebun @h0ngh0ngh0ng @megumismyhusband @jazoewazoe @ac333s @ikissfade @icey-wonders @bakunianadecorazon @marvel-z0mbie @tjbfingfh @d4rlinxs @bokutosmeatythigh @harryzcherry @holobean @grim-reapers-wife @ahahadumbo @qyuin @happinessisabutterflie @bluepartywobblernickel @eternallyshifting

©LOOKINGFORURAVITY 2025 | please do not copy, translate, or repost my work onto other platforms!

[0798f]

💞 — Secret Banter.

RELATIONSHIP: Ootori Kyoya x Reader

SUMMARY: Somehow, discovering a disheveled Kyoya in a commoner mall was only the second strangest thing Haruhi found out that day. Your existence took the number one spot.

A/N: I love secret relationship trope so much... Tell me Kyoya wouldn't keep his relationship under wraps.

This was far from the worst day Kyoya has ever had, but. Well. Today was not making it into the top 10 of best days for sure.

He was dragged to a labyrinth in his sleep and then subsequently abandoned by his friends. In a terrible outfit, no less. Kyoya wasn’t sure if he was relieved to have Haruhi rescue him or if he was mortified that she had to see him in this state.

Haruhi wasn’t sure either. She was in awe watching Kyoya eat a burger— it was like entering an alternate timeline. Compared to the rest of the host club, Kyoya was always more knowledgeable on the lives of commoners, but in a superficial way. He knew statistics and basic facts about regular people like a child knew facts about dinosaurs. Without Haruhi, Kyoya was as disconnected from the real world as everyone else at Ouran.

“… Kyoya?” The pair looked up at the voice calling Kyoya’s name. For a second Haruhi thought someone from the host club finally came back to look for their missing parent, but the person standing in front of them was a stranger to Haruhi. They had a bag of groceries and a confused expression. An utterly normal person.

The strangest part was that Kyoya clearly recognized this person. “(Name)?” His eyes reflected the same confused expression that the bystander had.

“Why… are you dressed like that?”

Now Kyoya was sure that mortification was the strongest emotion he felt today.

“Kyoya-senpai, you know this person?” Haruhi tried to figure out what kind of person would be shopping for groceries at a commoner’s mall but also be acquainted with the shadow prince of the host club. Related to the owner of the mall? No, that was too small scale for the level of high society that Ouran students dealt with. Them being related to the CEO that owns every mall chain across Japan was more likely.

He hesitated to answer, gaze lingering on the person in front of them. Kyoya carefully put down his burger before pushing up his glasses and stating matter-o-factly, “yes. Haruhi, this is my partner, (Name). (Name), this is the Haruhi Fujioka I told you about.”

Haruhi blinked. Partner? She went through her known information about Kyoya, which admittedly wasn’t a lot, but nothing pointed to him having a partner. Especially not a commoner! But the living proof was standing right next to their table and Haruhi was miffed, to say the least. “Partner?! Kyoya-senpai, you have a partner?!”

“Must you sound so shocked?” Kyoya retorted, and there was some earnesty in his otherwise sarcastic remark. It wasn’t like she ever asked him if he had a partner. Everyone just assumed he didn’t.

(Name) bowed following the introduction. “Fujioka-san,” they smiled. “I’ve heard so much about you. It’s nice to meet you.”

They really were a normal person. Dressed in plain clothes and unassuming. And polite. Haruhi realized early on at her transfer to Ouran that polite was rarely a word to describe the children of the wealthy and elite. Haruhi stood up to bow in return. “It’s nice to meet you too, (Name)-san. Sorry, I hope my reaction wasn’t rude. I had no idea Kyoya-senpai had a partner. Do you want to sit with us?”

Before (Name) had a chance to respond, Kyoya already grabbed a chair from an empty table and pulled it over. One exchanged glance with Kyoya was all it took to get (Name) to sit down. “Don’t worry about it, Fujioka-san. Kyoya doesn’t really tell people about me.”

“Please clarify that it is a mutual decision to keep our relationship private,” Kyoya sighed.

(Name) laughed. “Sorry, I was teasing.”

“No one knows? Also, you can call me Haruhi. Please don’t feel the need to be formal!” Haruhi was trying to figure out how to phrase questions that wouldn’t immediately get shut down by Kyoya. How did you meet, how long have you been together, how is your partner a commoner?

“Well, Tamaki-san knows. He found out after—“

Again, Kyoya was quick to interrupt. “Please don’t explain that story. It’s embarrassing.”

“I didn’t know you were worried about shame. Could’ve fooled me with that outfit of yours and your peculiar new hangout spot!” (Name) grinned, and Haruhi found herself in awe for the second time that day. She was used to Kyoya always having a witty remark ready for when one of the club members decided to yell at him, but (Name) might be his equal in that regard. Not only could they banter with Kyoya— Kyoya seemed to enjoy it. He had an unbeatable poker face but Haruhi definitely noticed the corners of his lips curling upwards as he looked at (Name). There was a softness in place of his usual cunning.

Haruhi leaned back in her chair, pleasantly entertained by the pair in front of her. “I guess it makes plenty of sense for Kyoya-senpai to have a private relationship. But, doesn’t that mean you don’t have a lot of time to spend with each other?”

“Oh, sure. I wouldn’t call it ideal. But, Kyoya is married to his job, y’know? I couldn’t take that away from him.”

That time, Kyoya pinched (Name)’s cheek in retaliation. “You’re making me sound like a bad partner. Yes, we don’t spend as much time together as the average couple, but we always make time for each other.”

“Have I ever told you that you look uncomfortable when you explain our relationship to other people?” Kyoya pulled on their cheek. “Agh! Let go!”

Kyoya complied with the request, but not before pressing a light kiss to the cheek he just bullied. He was a host, after all. He knew how to treat someone right. His regular customers would probably be furious to know that he was so chaste on physical affection because it was reserved for his dear partner.

(Name) wasn’t wrong about Kyoya being uncomfortable. He knew how to play the role of a host, but having to be honest about something real, in public, was a different ballpark entirely. But the fact that he was in a space where no one knew who he was or what his status was served to be quite freeing. The usual pressure on his shoulders of being an Ootori was alleviated for once, so he locked hands with (Name) over the table.

It was Haruhi’s turn to be cunning since she would never be afforded this opportunity against Kyoya again. “Kyoya-senpai has been so grumpy today,” Haruhi started. “But he relaxed as soon as you arrived, (Name)-san. He’s really fond of you.”

If (Name) wasn’t here, Kyoya would’ve probably found a way to twist Haruhi’s comment into more debt for her to pay off. But (Name)’s eyes lit up, so Kyoya let Haruhi get away with it this time.

“You’re really good at reading him, Haruhi-san! I may be teasing a lot, but he’s really a great guy. I couldn’t ask for a better partner.” (Name) talked about Kyoya like he was the most precious thing on the planet. For (Name), Kyoya wasn’t just the third Ootori son. He wasn’t burdened with the harshest expectations. All he had to do was be good to them and sometimes Kyoya wished he lived in a world where that was the only thing he ever had to be worried about in his life.

But, right then, in a commoner mall Kyoya had no familiarity with, it was like living that alternate life. So Kyoya allowed himself to smile at (Name) and take in the praise.

“Neither could I.”

masterlists.

[loredrinker]

Seeing Solas Through the Eyes of Cole

Currently working on a project, trying to paint a picture of Solas through the dialogue said about and to him in both games - the good and the bad. I love analyzing dialogue, so this has been a fun project, even if a bit daunting at times. The last few days I've been focusing on Cole’s lines specifically, and it’s interesting to see how much sympathy and emotional depth we get through Cole.  

When we view Solas through the lens of spirits - beings of emotion - it's understandable why many players find Solas sympathetic. Cole especially is a powerful lens for this because of the nature of this character, he doesn’t recall facts - he feels what others feel. 

Cole's dialogue after All New, Faded for Her, paints, I think, the most vivid emotional picture of Solas.  

Cole: Bright and brilliant, he wanders the ways, walking unwaking, searching for wisdom...   Solas: I do not need you to do that, Cole.   Cole: Your friend wanted you to be happy, even though she knew you wouldn't be.   Solas: (Sighs.) Could you... if you would remember her, could you do it as I would?   Cole: He comes to me as though the Fade were just another wooded path to walk without a care in search of wisdom. We share the ancient mysteries, the feelings lost, forgotten dreams, unseen for ages, now beheld in wonder. In his own way, he knew wisdom, as no man or spirit had before.   Solas: Thank you. 

As a man now and as time has gone by, Solas’ memories have become clouded by shame and regret. He can’t trust himself to remember his friend as it deserves to be remembered - without distortion. 

So he turns to Cole, a being closer to that spiritual purity, and asks him to remember his friend as he would have. 

But I love what happens instead. 

Cole responds by sharing how the spirit remembers Solas. This is rare - a spirit’s insight on how they view Solas - a memory of him, untainted by the self-loathing Solas carries. Cole knows what Solas needs even if Solas doesn’t and I believe Cole knows that part of Solas’ hurt is that he’s grieving not just his friend, but the man/spirit he was.   

“In his own way, he knew wisdom, as no man or spirit had before.”  

This was likely a spirit who had known Solas throughout his entire existence - as both spirit and man. The way it describes him is in the present tense: “He comes to me...” tells me that Solas, even as a man, continued to visit this spirit in the Fade. So the spirit sees him not as something entirely changed. Solas may have taken a different form, but his nature - curious, seeking, attuned to the Fade - remains the same.

We don't know for sure, but this spirit likely witnessed his transformation from spirit to man, his part in the destruction of the Titans, his rebellion against the Evanuris, the death of Mythal, and the long path that led to the events of Inquisition. I wonder, how many times did he turn to this spirit when he’d lost his clarity, seeking the wisdom he once embodied? Would things have gone differently if this spirit was still alive in the events leading to, and of Veilguard? Outside of Mythal, it may be the only being we meet in the games who has seen the entirety of Solas.

This spirit understood that Solas was wounded. Of course it did - it was a spirit of Wisdom. And when we consider its final words to Solas alongside Cole’s later dialogue, we gain deeper insight into the pain he carries.

“I’m happy. I’m me again. You helped me. Now you must endure”. 

Solas helped it return to it's purpose before it passed, and in return, it asks him to do the same: to endure. Not just physically, but spiritually - to live without losing himself and hold on to who he truly is beneath all the darkness and regret. 

I think part of the pain Cole feels in Solas stems from Solas losing himself. The theme of longing to be seen runs throughout Inquisition and Veilguard - in the Memories of a Duet Codex, in Solas telling the Inquisitor, “Few in this world can see me…,” and in his confession to a hurt Inquisitor, “You saw more than most.” He even states it outright: “I was Solas first.” And Solas is being buried beneath centuries of war, shame, grief, and every name hurled at him as an insult and in hatred.

To me, this dialogue offers a rare window into who Solas is beneath the darkness, strangled by years of violence and making choices against his nature. His capacity for love, his longing for connection - it isn’t a lie. It’s the part of him that can endure, despite everything. If the atonement ending is chosen, we see the full expression of that endurance.

To feel compassion for someone isn’t to excuse their actions - but there is power in understanding the emotional root of those actions. And if we choose to see Solas through Cole’s eyes (and through the eyes of the Spirit of Wisdom) – well, maybe we’ll find that he’s not that kind of wolf.  

[minnielvrr]

Letter Games Pt. 1

Lee: Hannie Lers: Chan, Minho, Jeongin Word Count: 2.8k

A/N: thank you for being so patient with me everyone! and thank you for the ones who checked up on me during my absence🥺 it means a lot to me🫂🩷 i hope you guys like this!!🤗💖

Tags: @itzsana-kiddingmenow, @lajanaa, @bbybumblelee, @hearted-anon, @lunalattae,

@jungwon-is-the-one, @reginald-stay09, @dusk-mp3, @lezleeferguson-120

“You two, quiet down! Hyung is sleeping,” Jeongin hissed for the third time that day, rolling his eyes when Han stuck his tongue out at him. Minho sighed, eyes falling on their leader, curled up and snoring away quietly on one corner of their picnic blanket.

The trio had covered him in their jackets, then munched on some snacks as they whispered to each other. The warmth of the sun, the cool of the breeze and the members hushed voices had lulled him slowly to dreamland.

Innie had propped his head up on his bag and Chan had fallen asleep in seconds, strands of his dark hair weaving between lush green blades of grass.

It was an adorable sight and one that reminded the two why they had to be silent. It was rare to see him so peacefully asleep. Chan needed this nap. And so they settled down too, Han pointing out clouds and comparing them to random objects in an attempt to keep them entertained.

“Look that one looks like Chan hyung’s butt…or maybe Binnie hyung’s. And that one looks like a wahahalrus!” He whispered, dissolving into a fit of giggles when it got both Minho and Jeongin to crack up.

Oh how they missed Changbin. The dwaekki had been stubborn about going to the gym today and so was missing all this.

It was a couple of hours later that Chan woke up, brought back to consciousness by his bandmates quiet snickers.

“Hannie hyung I swear if you wake Channie hyung up, you’re gonna get wrecked so bad!” Innie threatened, although the smile in his voice and crescent shaped eyes stole any real weight to his words.

“I’m up!” The oldest announced, a fond smile playing on his lips as he sat up and stretched. “Man, that was exactly what I needed. Plus,” he added, glancing at the ace. “I had a very… enlightening dream. Innie come over.”

Eyes wide with curiosity, the maknae leaned over, shoulders rising when the leader’s breath tickled his ears. Hushed whispers were followed by a deep red flush overtaking Jeongin’s face, both amusement and admiration shining in his eyes as he leaned away to look back at Chan.

“Hyung that… that… Can he even survive that?” He asked, unable to stop his gaze from falling on Han, who now resembled a scared hamster— worry lines showing on his forehead as his eyebrows knitted in suspicion and concern. Were they talking about him?

There was no way it was that right? That would be ridiculous! Because why on earth would Chan be dreaming about tickle tactics right now?

The same was done for Minho, the kitten now sporting a grin that could only be described as demonic. “I don’t like this. What are you plotting hyung?” Han demanded, looking warily at the mastermind of all this.

“Alright,” Chan announced, “Let’s play a game Hannie: you spell your name, and for each letter, we find a tickle spot and rate it. Sounds fun, right?”

“Nope.” The ace stood up abruptly, taking a big step away from the others, “Nuh uh. Like hell it does. Why am I the one getting targeted? Innie is much more ticklish and Minho hyung is a wayy more satisfying conquest.”

His comments flustered the two, Minho glaring playfully at his while Jeongin groaned in annoyance. “Get back here hyung-ah!” A burst of action followed, Chan and Jeongin jumping up and chasing after the quokka, who stumbled as he fled for his life.

Minho laughed in second-hand embarrassment. Around them, couples and families had stopped to stare, watching three grown men tearing through the grass like kids on a playground.

It was an exposed tree root that was Hannie’s undoing. “No no no no no!!”

He tripped, landing face first on a patch of tall grass. Before he could even stand up on his own, two hands grabbed his waist, hauling him over their leader’s shoulder. He gave in then, slumping in their hold and breathing hard.

“Yes yes yes Han-ah~ We’re gonna have to get you extra good for trying to run,” Chan teased as they walked back to their spot.

Innie bullied him all the way back, discussing earnestly with Chan on which spots to get, the smirk on his face telling Han that this was meant to tease him. And it certainly did.

His chubby cheeks were rose tinted when he was put down, Minho tackling the ace into his arms. “Mhmhm nohohoho!! Youhu cahan’t dohoho thihis to me!” He squirmed uselessly when the three pinned him down, a small part of him giddy with anticipation.

Hannie’s body tingled at the way all their eyes zeroed in on his hips. They wouldn’t start with his hips right? He couldn’t handle one of his worst spots being tickled right off the bat.

“Oh yea? And who’s gonna stop us? You?” Minho mocked, hands resting on Hannie’s ribs and tapping away as if to remind him of his current predicament. He gulped, looking away when he felt his cheeks warming up. Gods if he was already this flustered….

“Now, you remember the rules right? It’s simple. You spell out your name and we tickle you on one spot for each letter. And,” Chan gently tilted Hannie’s face so he was looking right at him, “for every letter you forget or mix up, we will tickle an extra spot that we pick. You got that?”

The ace chewed his bottom lip as he nodded, utterly mortified when he felt butterflies dancing in his belly. He was so excited!

“Go on hyung-ah, spell your name for us. You know you want to~” Innie crooned and Han wanted to wipe that smug look off his face. Their dear maknae had grown very cocky since he’d started bulking, having already gotten his long due revenge on Hyunjin and Seungmin.

A tense silence followed, during which the ace’s urge to get wrecked warred with his want for self preservation. Minho magnanimously helped him along, his fingers dancing lightly against Hannie’s neck to keep him giggling adorably.

“Arghahaha! Hyuhuhung youhuhu cahan’t tihickle mehehe untihil ihihi spehell!” He protested, his train of thought derailing right into tickle land.

“Oh? Whoever said we couldn’t tickle you before you started? There weren’t any such rules Hannie~ Coochie coochie coo~” he teased, mischievous smile stretching his lips as his fingers sped up, making the younger squirm under him.

“Fine! Fihihine Ihihi’ll sahahay it!” He yelped, shrugging his shoulders and shaking his head. “…H.”

All hell broke lose then. “Hips!” Jeongin yelled like a student getting the right answer in class. His shirt was tugged up and hands were immediately fighting to knead and scribble and drill into the quokka’s hips.

“Fuhuhuhuck nonono!! Ihihit tihihihckles sohohoho bahaHAHAD!!” Han couldn’t tell who was doing what, the ticklish sensation consuming his every thought, giggles spilling from his lips unrestrained.

Chan, sitting on his hands was doing the scribbling while Minho on his thighs was drilling in like this was his last chance to.

Innie on the other hand had moved to his side to knead into one hip at a time, alternating just to watch the poor lee twist and turn, trying and failing to lean away. “Wow hyungie, it’s like you become more ticklish each time we tickle you!” He marveled at the older’s ability to endure the sweet torture.

“Ihihi hahaha HAHATE YOUHUHU GUHUHYS!! AHHH MINHO HYUHUHUHUNG PLEHEHEASE!!” Hannie was thrown into hysterics, giggly laughter morphing into frantic cackles when Minho bent down to blow a raspberry on one hip.

Chan took mercy on him though, Hannie’s face was bright red, his wide, heart shaped smile on full display as he laughed and writhed under their hands. “Just spell the next letter when you want us to move on.”

“A! A! Plehehease Ihihihi cahan’t tahake ihihit thehehere anyhymore!!”

“Oh you asked for it baby. Too bad your first letters spell out your worst spots one after the other~” The leader chuckled at his plight. It was too amusing to stop though. So he dived right in, then stilled when an idea popped in his head.

“How do you want us to get you here Han-ah? Should I go light like this?” He cooed, slipping his hands into Hannie’s sleeves and brushed the sensitive skin lightly with the lips of his fingers. He watched as Hannie’s previous sounds quietened down, sweet bubbly giggles escaping his lips.

“Or rough?” He hooked his thumb into the hollow and vibrated in quickly, thrusting the poor lee into belly laughter, head thrown back and legs kicking the ground behind Minho. “LIGHT! PLEHEHEHASE CHAHAHANNIE HYUHUHUNG GO SLOHOHOW! IHIHIHI’M BEHEHEGGING!!”

“As you wish baby,” the leader promised, switching back to gentle tracing and light back and forth strokes of his nails. It was just enough stimulation to keep Hannie’s melodious sounds filling their little corner of the park, but not so rough that he’d get overwhelmed.

“Hyuhuhung ahahaha ihihit tihihickles hyuhuhung! ihihihit tihihihihckles!!” Hannie told them, watery eyes blinking up at them. “Does it now? And do you like it? I can feel you leaning in you know?” Chan looked at him, amused and endeared.

Their little ace really was the cutest ever. Poor Hannie blushed even darker at being outed, hiding his face in his arm. “Shuhuhuhut uhuhup! Youhuhu mahade mehehe dohoho thihihis!”

“Do you want us to stop then, baby?” Minho asked, a knowing smile on his face as he brushed Hannie’s bangs back from his sweaty forehead.

“Mhmhmhm myhyhy nahahame stihihill has mohohore lehehetters tohoho gohoho youhuhu knohow!” He mumbled between shy laughter, peering at them from his hiding place.

“That’s right! Hyung still has seven more letters to go. You’re so cute Hannie hyung. You can just say you like this~” Innie teased, throwing in a quick scribble to the older’s belly to make him jump. They really adored this shy side of their friend.

Han whined then. They were enjoying his flustered state wayy too much! It wasn’t fair. Just a twitch of Chan’s fingers and another bout of laughter slipped past his lips. It soon grew unbearable, the soft tickles sending tingles down his whole body, making the lee feel like he was a live wire.

“N!! Nehehehext spohohot plehehease!” He begged, gasping for breath. The unshed tears were more prominent in his eyes now. His blush had spread down his neck, color bleeding into his chest.

“Aww is this too much for you Hannie? I’m tickling you so gently and you still can’t take it?” The leader taunted but paused to give the younger a break.

“N is for Navel!” Jeongin cheered, wiggling his fingers at his hyung. It made Hannie’s breath hitch. The trio waited till the ace’s breathing had evened out, Minho rubbing soothing (and slightly ticklish) circles into his waist.

“You ready?” Minho asked, voice soft when he looked at Han, making sure the younger really was okay with continuing.

“I'm okay, hyung. Um... will you... uh... tickle me on more spots if I spell multiple letters at once? Just wondering… Is that one of the rules?" Han asked hesitantly, boba eyes looking right at Chan.

"Hmm, well it wasn't... But now that you mention it, maybe it should be one of the rules. Do you want it to be baby?" Chan's mind was running a mile a minute with that idea, playing with all the ways he could try this game on the rest of the members back at the dorms.

Hannie blushed hard but nodded. He wanted more. And he was curious what spots they would pick for each letter.

And maybe a teeny tiny part of him really wanted this too— to see how much he could take and how merciless his lers could be. After all, these three were probably the most sadistic ones he knew.

“Go on, spell for us.” Jeongin whined impatiently, taking his seat on the older’s calves. Now Sungie really was pinned completely.

“J…I…S.” His next words came out as a surprised screech when, without warning, Jeongin’s hands found his thighs and squeezed. “J for joints!” He spoke cheerfully, squeezing and scribbling and massaging the spot.

“Wait! Nohohoho Ihihihi dihihihidn’t thihihink thihis throughuhuhu ahaHAHAHAHAHH!!” A squeal cut through his bubbly laughter once Minho and Chan also joined in.

“Hey you can’t complain! You asked for this Hannie~ You even thought of it yourself!” Chan chided him, hands busily moving from his waist and up to Hannie’s ribs, clawing and pinching the skin.

Minho had leaned back, massaging his thumbs into the younger’s inner thighs to have Jisung screaming incoherently. It really wasn’t fair that his name covered so many of his worst spots!

Hannie twisted and writhed as best he could, only managing to shake his head and flap his feet and occasionally jerk his torso away from one of Chan’s cruel hands.

“FUHUHUHUHUCK!!! SHIHIT IHIHI CAHAHAN’T OHOHO MYHYHY GAHAHAHAHAD!!” Hicuppy laughter flowed from his mouth, his eyes squeezed shut as if to clock out the sensations racing across his skin.

“Yah! There are kids here! You can’t curse, Jisung-ah,” the leader scolded. And his hands sped up, punishing poor Hannie with even more tickles which kinda did their job.

Now any curse words that came up would die in his throat until nothing but pure, unfiltered sounds of joy escaped. He laughed and laughed and laughed, forgetting how this stupid game even begun in the first place.

“Three more letters baby. What the last ones?” Minho prompted, noticing how out of it their ace looked.

“IHIHI CAHAHAN’T REHEHEMEHEMBER! PLEHEHEASE SLOHOHOW DOHOHOWN!! IHIHI CAHANT THIHIHINK!” He gasped out finally, and the three obliged, slowing their hands until they were merely resting on the tortured spots.

Han panted, chest heaving as he caught his breath. Then he remembered. The last 3 letters. Oh god. Which spots would they target? U for underarms, N for neck and G for…? Damn he couldn’t think of any…

“Uh…U, N and G! That’s all the letters.” He spoked regardless. He wondered what spot the others would target for his last letter.

“Okay U for underarms,” Minho nodded in satisfaction. “N for neck, of course!” Chan followed. They all turned to Jeongin, who smirked cockily. That brat had something up his sleeve!

“Ghost spots~” He said and was greeted with three matching looks of confusion. “You’ll see!” He reassured and let the oldest duo start.

Minho hooked his thumbs into the younger’s hollows and alternated the sides he would tickle, giggling when it had Hannie flailing left and right like a fish out of water.

“Nohohoho!! Mihihihinhohoho hyuhuhung stoHAHAHAHAP BEHEHEING MEHEHEAN!!” His laughter doubled in volume when Chan joined at his neck, trailing his fingertips before scribbling at the soft skin.

Jeongin observed the scene for a moment, taking in the bright pink of his hyung’s chubby cheeks and the tears now dripping down the sides of his face. His beautiful heart shaped smile stretching his lips as he kicked and squealed helplessly.

Then he went in for the kill. “Tickle, tickle, tickle Hannie hyung~” He taunted, drawing attention to himself and delighting in the way Hannie’s crescent shaped eyes followed his hands with a kind of desperation. “NohoHOHOhoho!! Stahahay awahahay frohom thehehere!!”

He then brought his wiggling fingers to hover just millimeters over the lee’s belly, loving the way Hannie tried to suck in his stomach, only for it to spasm with his laughter.

His skin would brush Innie’s fingers and flinch away only for the maknae to move his hands to another spot and repeat it.

“Ihihihihie youhuhuhu’re ahahan ahahahass!” He whined through his giggles after the maknae switched spots for the third time, teasing him relentlessly. That was when the youngest struck. Not his belly? Then that’s exactly where he would aim.

Just when Han threw his head back in frustration, Innie’s hands found the skin of his belly, using all ten fingers to vibrate into the spot.

“ACK! NOHOHOHOHO GOHOHOHODS IHIHI SAHAID NOHOHOT THEHEHERE!!” He screeched, laughter loud and high pitched. He gasped and squealed and kicked and twisted but there was no escape. He was here, pinned down and he would have to take it.

Han felt like he was losing his mind, the tingly sensations taking over nerve and thought of his and filling his brain with how much everything tickled.

After a minute of non stop tickling, Hannie was like putty in their hands, his limbs like jelly, no strength left in them to even squirm anymore. His laughter began to die down, wheezes punctuating every sound until the trio let him go.

“What a mess you’ve become,” Minho huffed out a laugh at his state— hair and clothes messed up beyond saving and tear tracks lining the sides of his face.

Chan handed him a bottle of water that he gulped down hurriedly and Innie wiped his flushed face carefully. “Youhuhu guhuys are insahane… We should definitely make the rest of them suffer too!” He grinned.

With immediate agreement from the other three as well, that is exactly what they did. But for now, Hannie would be getting his well deserved cuddle time to recover from his own tickle attack.

[lunebulous]

Their favorite positions - Xavier's

A.N: Xavier is just a lil mean in this one - but he still adores you most of the time. That man TAAAALKS. Hope you like it! W.C: 1815 words. MDNI! NSFW Ahead. Every LI will have its own post.

The ideal session would start with him doing what he likes most - teasing you. Making you ask, making you say out loud what you want before giving it to you, always finding a way to play with your mind as he plays with your body. “Why so whiny.. you want something, angel? What is it?”

You'd be sitting between his legs, where his hands knead your thighs and breast after pulling you closer to him by your hips; As he trails his lips where your shoulder meets your neck, being the biggest talker when it comes to loving on you. 

He can't help but praise, getting you and himself buried in the moment by the way he describes and worships your voice, the little sounds coming from your lips after you finally told him you needed his fingers on you. “You have no idea what your pretty sounds do to me, starlight… makes me want to play with you like this forever..”

When it finally comes to slide himself in, he’ll stop playing with your clit for a moment, his hands exploring your breasts and tummy before lifting you just a little bit by the waist. He whispers softly to your ear, almost inaudibly as your back rests against his chest.

“Can you put it in for me, pretty girl?” 

“mhmm..” you nod with a whiny hum. 

“Good job.” he almost inaudibly praises. And as he holds you up, you reach for his cock, already so worked up you just slide it in without teasing or stroking it first, desperate to feel full. You moan lustfully and as soon as he feels your slick and warm walls engulfing his tip, he slowly lets your weight sink on his toned thighs with a heavy breath on your neck, as if relieved. “So warm f’me.. did you want it that bad? poor thing..”

His hands now travel back to your tummy, squeezing it possessively as he loves to feel your flesh against his long fingers as he licks and nibbles the bottom of your neck, groaning just under your ear. He cockwarms you for a bit, smirking as he loves to delay your desires for his own entertainment. As you squirm too much, he gets even harder with your pleas. “Xav.. please..” you whine softly. He leaves a contrastingly soft kiss to your earlobe. “Patience, starlight.” One of his hands goes lower to play with your clit again as the other slowly ascends to lightly hold your neck closer to him; not choking - just delivering a message. As you feel his firm middle finger circling your bud, you whine and rock your hips against his hand, his cock throbbing inside you, making you feel so full as you clench, and purposefully or not, his hand tightens on your neck. His soft deep voice warns you. “Behave. Take what I give you or I won’t give you anything at all.”  How he manages to be mean and sweet at the same time always amazes you - but now, under his ministrations and feeling so pliant, you just nod and accept.

The feeling of his hand on your neck makes everything feel sharper, slowly getting unaware of how loud and whiny you’re getting. He shuts his eyes to concentrate on your whimpers, finger still playing with your clit as he grows impatient, wanting nothing more than to just fuck you senseless but loving your desperation for him; your need for him, showing just as explicitly as he feels the same need for you. His cock twitches inside you with every small movement your body does, his hips grinding against you subconsciously. After some time he can’t take it anymore - just playing with your clit, listening to your beautiful voice. He needs more, and he needs it louder.

He slides you both down, now laying on his back as you’re almost cumming, just almost there. You squeal, feeling your clit flutter as you start twitching. 

“I’ll make you feel so good..” He mutters more to himself than you, his hands leaving your clit and neck. You protest of course, hands finding the side of his thighs under you to scratch. “Xav, no! Please-” you cry out. “I was’ just- aghnn, no! - please,” He chuckles.

His forearms hooking behind your knees as his hands go behind your head, placing his intertwined fingers and palms on the back of it - making you face the way he enters deeply into you. “Xav!” you whimper in surprise.

“Fuuuck baby…” He groans as he starts thrusting slowly. “‘m so sorry, I need to feel her cumming with me,” he throws his head back on the pillow. “you understand, right? You want me to do this, right? - fuck’!” He moans deliciously as you nod, finally feeling his girth stretching you properly, forced to watch it going deep inside before he pulls back, his shaft glazed with your wetness. He opens his eyes briefly and realizes you’re watching him move. “My sweet girl, you like it?” You nod shyly. “Oh you're loving it?! You're such a depraved one..” He chuckles a bit breathlessly, going faster. “And here I thought I was being too mean with my angel.. So dirty..” He chuckles condescendingly before his brows furrow, lips falling open as he concentrates on how good you feel around him, clenching so hard everytime you hear his voice. He loves knowing how he gets to play with you, to hear the sinful noises caused by him. Skin against skin, a fast and loud ‘plap’ repeats itself across the room.  

He gets off at how easily you let yourself break for him. It fuels his own need and possessiveness, getting lost in the way you feel around him, your weight on him - knowing he can move you around like this, like his own personal doll. How he gets you all to himself right now, how only he touches you like this. And that’s why he always coos at you, his voice sweet and breathy as always, contrasting to the roughness he displays. “Ah you sound so beautiful.. love my angel s’much..” He adjusts his feet on the mattress to fuck you faster, harder. “You love me too, princess? Say you love when I do this to you,” Aaand he’s back at teasing you again, knowing you’re shy. He fucks you fast like a rabbit, moaning indiscreetly under you.

“I- I love when - you do-,” you start, crying out. “Do what?” he interrupts with a commanding strained tone, holding you tight in place as he fucks you, mean. 

“Xavieeer…!” you whine in a protest, crying out loud as you feel a wet knot deep in your stomach.

“Gosh, I love when you call out for me like that.” He unhooks his hands from behind your head and knees, shifting to hug your waist on top of him. “What were u saying, angel?” it's almost like you can hear the smugness in his voice.

He slows down his pace and looks at your flushed face, his own not so different. Free from his hold, now you get to look to the side and really look at how he comes undone with you just as much as you do with him. “Let Xav hear you, hm? Hear his pretty girl?” He thrusts sharply. “Will you do that f’me?”

You whimper as you feel your orgasm fading at the slowness of his movements. He knows you were close again, he could feel it. But he won’t relent until you say it for him. And you know that. 

You give in. “I love when you fuck me, Xav.. like this..” your voice is shy and faint as your head falls to the side, but his ego now is just as big as the smile on his face.

“You’ll be the death of me, princess.” He groans. He starts thrusting faster again, holding you tight to his torso, arms across your body; Having enough of his own games and just wanting to relish the way you feel around his shaft - warm, welcoming. The way you feel on his tip - slick, giving way. 

He savours your body with an open mouthed kiss before his hands go behind your knees again, bending them and bringing your legs closer to your head. You start getting louder - and he does too. 

“fuck-” the word slips out of your lips as you get tighter, silent. He knows you’re almost there and he knows it’s because of him. His own climax gets closer thinking of it. The knot deep in your stomach tightens until it snaps - you tense up, lips parted in an ‘O’ as your walls swallow him. A hot and big shiver goes around your thighs and core, your folds wet and swollen.

He starts panting. Thrusting fast, hard. He can't get enough. You feel so fucking good. Fuck fuck fuck-, you feel s'good. Shit. 

He squeezes his eyes shut, a loud groan escaping his lips and then - white behind his eyelids. 

His cock twitches inside you with a few more staggered thrusts, cum leaving his tip in liquid spurts, enough to start dripping out as he doesn’t stop thrusting - but now slower. Too focused on his high to really notice you came with him. He inhales deeply, kissing your hair mindlessly. And then you moan with a sigh, a choked back sound of relief and ecstasy - that’s when he realizes you’re riding your high with him. He slowly comes to a stop, but one of his hands let go of your knee to press on your clit, enhancing your climax.

“Fuck!” you complain silently. 

He chuckles, his eyes scanning your flustered face. “Just feel good baby.. I got you.” he leaves a kiss on your temple. You whine quietly in response, enjoying the intimacy of it, your orgasm subsiding and leaving space to pure adoration. 

 “I love you..” you whisper, your voice tinged with a roughness he’ll never admit he adores.

“I know, baby.” He kisses your hair, above your ear. “Are you okay?”  You turn your head to face him. “I am.. but.. Don’t you love me back?” You playfully pretend to be hurt.

He chuckles, seeing through your theatrical banter. “Want me to show you again how much I do?” He caresses your head, pulling a few strands of hair away from your face.

You giggle. “You know what, It’s fine, no, really!” You start squirming away from his hold in a jest, whimpering quietly as his cock slips out of you. He groans softly too. 

Now laying by his side, he takes the opportunity to get on his knees and place his hands on each side of your waist to hover over you.

“No, no, where do you think you’re going?” He starts kissing your collarbone, going lower until he almost reaches your nipple. You run a hand through his hair. 

“Xav-,” you start. He doesn't let you finish. “Since your highness is so unsure..” He playfully teases, “Let me show her how much I love her.” He kisses your ribs, your stomach. And he starts going lower… lower. "And her." And as soon as he adjusts himself to lay between your legs, arms hooking over your thighs, you sigh. He’s not leaving so soon.

Masterlist | Other LI's

[confusedhummingbird]

How would you describe the dynamic between Dick and Roy, their Titans years vs now? What about their fights? (No I don't need this information for a fic, what're you talking about?)

Speaking of fics.... How would Roy react if Dick badly hurt someone he loved?

You don't have to answer publically, honestly might prefer if you did but it's up to you

Ooooh this is a really interesting question! Before I start forgive me Anon because this is probably gonna get rambley.

So I see Dick and Roy's early years as the best way to describe it as very anime rival like. They butt heads a lot and sometimes feel inferior to each other (Especially Roy because that's a bit of a running theme with him) but they do still respect each other. They were friends but not to the way they were later in life. I see the moment where their relationship changed was the mission Roy asked Dick and Dick alone to help him find Cheshire supposedly sent by CBI to get her but this is actually a way so he can find her so he can see Lian again because it's her birthday and he hadn't seen her since the issue he learned she existed. So yeah Roy was lying to Dick and felt so bad he was lying to Dick that he even cried

And naturally Dick figured out he was lying but he still helped Roy and even brought Lian to Roy in the hospital something that Roy didn't think he would do after he learned he was lying.

And this is where I believe the shift in their relationship truly changed and this is where on both ends they truly became the good friends they are.

Now to why your question is interesting is because Roy himself is very interesting when it comes to Dick, he's someone who will always call Dick out when he needs it and their fights can be very even when it comes to that both giving and getting as good as they can. But both Roy and Dick still have complete trust in each other but especially Roy to Dick.

He knows and trusts Dick a lot and knows he always has a reason for doing what he does. Now that doesn't mean he won't call him out if the reason is dumb or usually Batman related, but he still trusts him. If Dick told Roy to jump off a cliff, he might think he's gone crazy but he'd still do it because he trusts Dick.

So if Dick hurt someone close to Roy like his father or siblings, Roy would be pissed and probably say some harsh words or throw a punch or two but he'd still know there was a reason for what he was doing. I truly don't think there is anyway for Roy to truly lose faith in Dick. Roy himself is a very forgiving person. He feels he doesn't have much of a right to hold grudges for people's sins when he himself has a lot of his own sins. He still loves Jade despite all the terrible things she's done, including blowing up a country. And even when he finally admits she'll never change like he hoped he still loves and cares for her.

Hope this is a good and informative answer and if you have any more questions feel free to ask them or feel free to ask my friend @royboyfanpage because He's amazing with his takes and knowledge of Roy and the rest of the Arrowfam.

(Also I'd totally love to read that non existent fanfiction you aren't working on 😉)

[shyamanuensis]

my personal crucio

MDNI. Unhinged. All Slytherin boys will be making an appearance. Reader is currently dating Cedric Diggory. Oh no. Clearly she needs a new bad habit xo

Hot – that’s the only word I can use to describe it. Not sweltering or burning. Hot. Just hot; but not uncomfortably. Both the club and him. There’s a sweat beading across my skin which is either from the pill I took in the alleyway about an hour earlier or the way his hands have found my hips. This is almost a weekly ritual for us. Three tequila shots down and a burn at the back of my tongue which seems almost unholy: we’re in a bathroom stall. Dirty, filthy, nasty. Am I still describing the place or him?

The beat the DJ is spinning outside vibrates through the walls; sending a shiver up my spine which is complimented by the way his lips are attached to my neck. Neither of us are for formalities. The dress I’m wearing has been pooled around my waist roughly; heel balancing on the toilet seat; his thrusts lazy but satisfying. A sense of euphoria has kicked in and my mind begins to blank but I’m desperate to keep myself in the moment. To feel worshiped; to feel needed. He groans his usual array of praises – tight, slut, mine. It’s the highlight of every Saturday night – being used, pleasured, wanted. Is it sex? Well yeah, just without the foreplay, build up, emotional high and aftercare.

He’s a bad habit but I’m not exactly what you’d call angel material. At least he asks for consent through, right? It’s never verbal. No, that would be asking too much of the situation. It’s a simple glance which glitters with a mischief I’m addicted to harder than the drugs my friends encourage me to take; and all I have to do is smile back. Once he winks, it’s endgame.

Well – almost. Endgame kicks in as he wraps a hand around my throat; eyes meeting mine for the last time during the night as his hips smack against my own with a greed I’d struggle to define. He’s never been one to care about if I finish; but tonight, he murmurs something about making sure I feel alright, and his thumb finds my clit. Before I know it, my teeth sink into his shoulder, and I’ve hit another high. Naturally this time.

His chest heaves. It takes a few seconds for both of us to catch our breaths. A knock at the stall door for a girl desperate to use the bathroom has us giggling like children although we both know we’re not that innocent. It’s a single kiss – barely there which ends the arrangement between us. His jeans zipped back up; my dress back down. I’m missing underwear, but it wouldn’t be the first time and I’m not desperate enough to pick up anything that’s been discarded on the sticky floor. We shuffle out of the stall as the girl waiting rushes past and make our way back into the club. As a rule, we never hold hands but tonight our fingertips only just find one another’s and there’s a scarce feeling of romantic intimacy.

“You know – I still don’t know your name?”

Is it wrong to ask? Should I appreciate the anonymity we have? Maybe. But just like any other woman in this world, I’ve got a build in sense of curiosity that often leads me off the path astray. He twists to face me; a hand brushing hair behind my shoulder as he cups my cheek tenderly and smiles.

“How about I promise to tell you next week?”

He kisses my forehead before ghosting off into the crowd and I’m stunned for a few seconds; next week. Next week. Fuck; can I wait that long? I guess I do for the sex anyway. Feeling a weight shadow over me from behind, lighter, gentler hands intertwining with my own, the familiar scent of my boyfriend’s cologne becomes almost overwhelming. Do I feel guilty? Surprisingly no. He’s stable. He’s secure. He’s emotionally available and free. Like a good man should be. My thighs are wet though. Almost uncomfortably. I have to suggest something – anything to take my mind off of Mr Wrong.

“Cedric babe; let’s go grab another drink…”

[luciusdaskel]

Clone theory

Ok! So this idea was HEAVILY influenced by this post, which is kind outdated BUT THE POINTS ARE FASCINATING!!! So! What caught my attention and how does it still apply? Well for starters, I fully agree with their thoughts on Porty MK; he sounds like a child's view on adulthood.

(From the original post btw-)

They say that Porty's behavior sounds like he grew up with a strict, drill sergeant parent. ... Well, as much as I love Pigsy, I can see him being a strict parent, but that could just be because in the show we see him as both MK's dad AND boss. Regardless, I wouldn't be surprised if when Pigsy got mad he'd often limit MK on things, not blowing up at him and not hurting MK but restricting MK. Idk how to describe it. One quote they say, well part of it, fits Pigsy in my opinion, "I am in charge and you will do what I say." Which tell me what you want but Pigsy is definitely a parent who'd say "You can't do it because I told you so! My word is law in this house." I doubt he ever meant anything mean but definitely did not help when MK felt unfair and maybe as a kid got this warped view on adults.

Let's be real, lil MK had moments where he hated Pigsy, that's just how it is with kids and parents, you love them and you hate them sometimes. But I think Pigsy was loving enough to make sure MK knew he cares for him.

Now onto Artist, my boy! Now I do agree with the post on multiple parts of Artist, him conforming and wanting praise and to be perfect, I do have my own thoughts on him. I feel the most like Artist and it's not just because I lose my crap if a hand doesn't look right (but that does help lol) but because I feel that anger and even self hatred if things don't work.

My interpretation of Artist is that, it's possible Pigsy's love of noodles often had a side effect of outbursts when growing up. You dare touch the bowl Pigsy needed and cover it with something, possibly a loud scolding of not touching Pigsy's kitchen. Maybe as a tot MK wanted to help but Pigsy was always working at this time and no one would want toddler noodles served in their bowl, and I can see Pigsy, being stressed, telling that to MK.

That feeling of being unable to help hurts, I'm sure we've all been there. Also that attitude of cooking might've made an impression on MK, Pigsy's noodles need to be perfect. Now while MK's not always a perfectionist at everything, Artist probably is, and OG is also, like any artist, somewhat perfectionistic as we see in season 3 episode 8, Benched.

Like bro- you did not have to do that to Tang-

So coupled with being an artist, having a dad who's a perfectionist with food, leads to possibly an unhinged drive to be better. Oh nearly forgot the praise part! Growing up my mom praised me well, and my dad? He did, sometimes, but I didn't feel the pride. So based on my own experience it's possible MK seeked Pigsy out a lot but he was always busy and he might've went to Tang and Tang might've gotten him the praise he wanted but still didn't add up to what he wanted from Pigsy. So that led to MK wanting to perfect the craft of art, one way or another. Now after years of doing art, his perfectionism died down and also Pigsy I think has gotten better at shown is pride as the two of them grew up. The perfectionism doesn't go away forever, you live with it and you adjust to it. Something MK learned, but Artist hasn't.

Earlier I mentioned self-hatred, which might have something to do with the pain splatters lowkey looking like a replacement for blood.

Sometimes if something is not going to plan, instead of placing it on the time, the craft, or something else, I place that anger onto myself. "I can't draw good." "I'm shit at art." "I need to be better!" "I will to better! And if I don't I can't draw good, and if I can't draw good then I fail at the one thing I like." ... Spiraled a bit but you can see how it can go from "Ugh! This hand isn't working" to "I am failing myself" which, I can see Artist MK having that but a bit worse because that is literally why he was made, to draw, to help Sandy paint. If he fails at being good at that then he fails at his ENTIRE purpose for existing.

Anyways, that's my thoughts for Artist lol- Clearly he's my favorite lol

Now Delivery. Reading it over again, I feel like we have a similar thought but different paths to get there.

I feel like with Pigsy's growing order pile, Delivery messed up (think like focus episode) then panicked. I see the clones as slightly based on MK's friends, with Porty as Mei, Artist as Pigsy, and Delivery as Tang. Why Tang? Well who do we see eat the most? Tang. Who's nervous and would 100% stress eat noodles? Tang. I feel like they did Delivery dirty but oh well. So I feel like it's a representation of MK's need to help the shop but he has one meltdown and he gets too stressed. Which explains the focus episode, and the fact it's not ADHD focus (because Wukong's advice is NOT compatible with ADHD), but anxiety and panicking focus. "Take in everything then focus on what you want to do", and the moment MK was surrounded by vines is a great visual to what it's like to nearly not be able to breath and have an attack (either panic or anxiety attack I can't recall). Overall, this clone could show the other side of Artist, the need to be perfect and the anxiety/expectations of being perfect. Artist is like the drive, and Delivery is the emotions that go with it.

Also on top of possible undiagnosed ADHD for MK, the reason why Delivery fights against Pigsy is to get regulated again so he can calm down enough to do his job again. I know I fight back to have my own time and way of calming down and I would fight anyone who'd try to take that away from me.

Overall, I do agree with the bit at the end here.

And it has been shown time and time again, MK values his friends, his family. In the past it was to hold on and never let go, and when they fly off he breaks down. Now, he's at a point where he feels like he needs to push them away, a full 180 turn.

To me it's accurate to how mental health fucks you over. I've been there, I've felt what MK has and so this could be projection but I feel like it has some weight. I had a dark time where I used to make friends with ease and cling to them, but one mistake and one bad person made me turn around and struggle to cling like I did. Now I feel like I either cling or I accidentally push people away. Which isn't a good feeling, because, like MK, I value my friends. I haven't gotten to the point MK did (seek death), but still. When you seek that, those people tend to sell things they once treasured, and I'm sure that can apply to pushing people away, specifically the people you value the most and have the most memories.

ANYWAYS THAT IS AN ANALYSIS FOR ANOTHER TIME- BYE BYE!

Hope ya'll enjoyed my analysis ramblings!

[sunliights]

“i guess not.” still, it’s not the word most people would use to describe joshua off the cuff. in fact he can think of a long list that would probably come before ‘cute’ but maybe ripley has a bit of a different perspective with him. after all, they are someone who warms his bed frequently and so that probably allows for a slight different point of view. “a little much as in? too enthusiastic?” idly, he brushes back some of their hair. already mused with their activities. “terribly so. i just had to spend all of my time working, can you imagine that?” he sighs as if it’s such a hardship and not how he spends most of his time. granted, he was able to pick up a little overtime since it wasn’t like he’d have any evening guests if they weren’t around. “will you be going anywhere else any time soon? if so, i might need to take a few pictures of my own to tide me over.”

"those things aren't mutually exclusive," ripley points out with a shrug, smiles easily. thinks that he's many things, cute included, it was just the thing that came to mind when they stared at joshua. thinks he can destroy them and still be cute. carefully, they reach over him to place the bottle on the side table before settling on their stomach. they fold their arms over his thighs diagonally, laying on them as they look up at him. wants to be close to him as much as possible. "busy, exhausting," ripley hums thinking back to the week, told him a lot over texts as well, "but good. it was a good workshop to be at, even if some of the people there were a little much." doesn't mind that joshua had pulled them in to fuck them the moment they knocked on his door. preferred it, really. likes that they got rid of pretenses. "was it uneventful for you without me around?"

[unriding]

a … a gift from the talented @kruinka 🥹 thank you so much!! ദ്ദി ༎ຶ‿༎ຶ)

[gingermintpepper]

Day 4: Aristaeus

Interpretation notes and trivia below the cut!!

All rise for the entrance of my president !! Honestly, of all the figures and characters that were up for debate when I first started thinking about this story and who I wanted leading the charge Aristaeus was not one of them. Originally, I'd always known that Asclepius and Orpheus would be worked in somehow - they've always been favourites of mine in terms of children of Apollo (even if Orpheus as the child of Apollo and Calliope is less popular classically) and I expected my pick for the third child of Apollo to be involved to be similarly mortal like Iamus or Tenes but the more I looked into Aristaeus the more I fell in love with him! Ultimately, he's meant to be both a foil and a reflection of his father - a boy who grows up thinking his father's footsteps would always be warm only to realise that following in them would lead to death and destruction. While his status as a rustic and hunting god is still important here, Aristaeus' interpretation is much more focused on his connection to the Etesian wind and his quelling of the dog star Sirius which is why his hair in particular is so long and spiralling. All in all, more than any other figure I've chosen to interpret and represent in my work Aristaeus is the god I hope more people get interested in and research! I think there are a lot of important stories in his various myths and travels and I definitely want more people to discover and fall in love with them as I have!

Some fun trivia:

Apollo's firstborn son. Because he was born mortal on account of his very mortal mother, Apollo immediately took him to Olympus to eat ambrosia to begin his transition into divinity. Apollo would continue to feed Aristaeus small amounts of ambrosia and nectar for the next ten years until the child fully shed his mortal skin and was reborn as a god.

Due to the nature of making mortals deathless (namely the fun part of the process where they are completely remade and lose their mortal memories) Aristaeus spent most of his early life with his mother and siblings where they all pitched in to reteach him his family, his hobbies, his favourite things and ultimately how to live and love. Aristaeus was very attached to his maternal family because of this and his early acts of ingenuity were mostly born from his wish to make things easier for his family.

Aristaeus is the only one of his children Apollo hand raised full time. In those days, Aristaeus adored his father and believed him completely upright and blameless, the true face of a benevolent deity and the kind of man he aimed to be when he was full grown.

They would later have many bitter arguments and conflicts, the first and perhaps most impactful of all being their disagreement over Actaeon, Aristaeus' firstborn son. He wanted Apollo to teach him stating that it was a normal thing for a grandfather to do but Apollo vehemently refused to have any part of Actaeon's rearing, stating that he was not his child and that it was highly inappropriate for him to educate another god's son. When Actaeon later dies, Aristaeus blames a not insignificant part of that on Apollo - something that only worsens when he learns that it was Artemis who cursed the boy and that Apollo was always aware Actaeon would die young.

Spends most of his time travelling from place to place. Doesn't really like Olympus and prefers to spend his time minding animals or tending to fields. Is on wonderful terms with Demeter and Persephone and often makes decadent exchanges of olive oil and preserved meat for exotic flowers and fruit for his bees.

Big fan of wind and percussive instruments. Never liked the kithara because of how finicky it is and far prefers the hand drums and reed flutes of his mother's country. Exceptional dancer.

Will sell prized cattle for high quality and highly unique jewellry. Doesn't much care for gemstones but is an absolute gold fiend and has a massive collection of bracelets, anklets, nose and lip adornments and rings. Has never been north enough to hit India but got a ton of rare and different adornments from his Phoenician in-laws when he was married to Autonoë.

Hates dogs but doesn't mind wolves. Not a big horse fan either

Unlike other winds, he cannot transform into various animal forms. He's close enough to the Anemoi that he keeps up with the gossip but he's only really friends with Notos. Gets along poorly with Zephyrus whose preference for pretty youths has often led to them getting into physical altercations when they were younger. Aristaeus still holds a bit of a grudge about it.

Has a big stupid crush on Dionysus which is embarrassing because Dionysus also put him out of a job. Due to Dionysus' relative youth, he feels a bit conflicted about such feelings - mostly because Dionysus is on extremely good terms with Apollo and Aristaeus doesn't want him to get burned.

Despite kinda despising his father, Aristaeus is a pretty decent eldest brother and regularly keeps in contact with a lot of his siblings. He often delivers mead, flavoured honey and olive oil and uses it as an excuse to chat and catch up. Currently in a bit of a tiff with Asclepius because he's worried about him and his family.

Favourite colour is the rich gold of purified honey, favourite food is lokma and his favourite time of year is winter.

[wildsaltair]

get you a man who can do both