#they absolutely gossip about their colleagues

[itzscribz]

Clemmy design !! It was about time I made one lmao

I like them a lot ! They’re a huge Spider-verse fan, draw on their own time and use their jewelry to fidget. Also made an oc to be their work bestie just because

[ialwaysknewyouwerepunk]

.

[a-hermit-pining]

Househusband Caleb

AN: Everyone who bargained their first child and soul, pay up 🫴🏻 jk please enjoy! Thank you for being online strangers who make me happy.

Genre: Househusband au

Pairing: Caleb x gn reader

(I do not own these characters)

He just sort of takes a break from the fleet… and that break turns into a full-on career change. Sure, he enjoyed being a fighter pilot, but those years had been grueling, demanding both his life and his morals. He doesn’t regret it, but he doesn’t miss it, either.

The two of you never really had time to sit together, to talk, or to steal even a few peaceful moments without work pulling one of you away.

But now, he’s come to love the mornings, where he can chase you down with breakfast. Afternoons, where he surprises you at work with lunch. And evenings, when your smile blooms as you come home to him.

After a lifetime of running in all directions, he’s found joy in the quiet life. It takes him a while to figure himself out, to rediscover who he is beyond the fleet, beyond revenge. And your home gives him just that.

He integrates into the neighborhood effortlessly, the type to charm all the neighbors with homemade desserts, join kids in games of hide-and-seek, and somehow turn into the guy everyone waves at when they pass by.

And the moms love him too, he is the newest addition to their gossip session because the food he brings to the potlucks makes him an elite member. So neighborhood intel is all in his hands.

He’s not exactly your manic pixie dream boy because he was once a sad beige mom (ref his Skyheaven penthouse). Therefore, he is your pragmatic pixie dream boy.

He probably gets into something super niche, like wood carving or running a pop-up bakery stand, which eventually grows into his own small business. It gives him something to focus on, something that’s just his.

That said, he’s big on DIY. One day, you leave for work and come home to find detailed plans for a sunroom in the backyard. “I had some time,” he says, as if he didn’t just design an entire architectural expansion in a single afternoon.

Your dogs love him. He’s a big dog guy. The type who bonds with huskies, retrievers, or labs. He loved taking them on walks, so a whining huskies seems like just the challenge he needs in his cottage core life.

Weekends are a treat in your shared household. After countless failed attempts to wake up early and cook him breakfast before he’s up, you finally manage to pull it off once. And the way his eyes light up when you and the dogs walk in with the breakfast tray? Worth it.

If you’re a corporate weapon, then by all means, spoil him. Sure, he has his own money from years of service, and he’d never ask for anything. But have you seen how attached he is to that dog tag necklace? There’s no way he wouldn’t absolutely treasure everything you give him. It’s not about the price, it’s about the fact that it’s from you.

But it is the days, when you randomly bring him flowers that make him the happiest. Just a simple gesture of appreciation is deeply felt, quietly cherished, as he arranges him into the vase on your dining table.

At this point, your coworkers are used to stashing away the gifts you get delivered to the office for him, just in case he shows up for lunch.

He always makes a point to bring snacks for your colleagues, partly because he enjoys baking, and partly because it never hurts to have allies in the office. After all, someone has to keep him updated if anyone dares to hit on you.

He also makes sure to prep all your favorite snacks over the weekend because hangry you is beyond even him. He swears by an ingredient household, better believe he’s your personal Nara Smith, whipping up cookies-and-cream ice cream from scratch just because you had a craving.

Would be absolutely hilarious if you both dressed up as Nara and Lucky for Halloween. He’s Nara. Obviously.

[someonegoood]

THE CORPORATE EQUATION chapter 1 ✫ jeon jungkook

after Jeon resigned as CEO, meeting his son —the new CEO— was not a good experience. Despite the tension, you notice hints of vulnerability beneath his moody exterior.

CONTAINS: corporate!au, ceo!jk, headofhr!reader, grumpy x sunshine, slow burn, accidental vulnerability, mutual pining, emotionally unavailable jk, bickering turned bonding, fluff & angst :)

NOTE: this will be a mini series. thanks so much for reading!! this work is not revised and english is not my first language :)

my main masterlist! ❀ the corporate equation masterlist!

chapter one: the new CEO

Life has a strange way of changing in the blink of an eye. One moment, you’re comfortable in the routine of your daily life, and the next, everything shifts—like the wind knocking over an entire stack of carefully arranged folders. For you, this particular change had come faster than expected. Jeon, the former CEO, had resigned abruptly, leaving the company in turmoil. There was little time to adjust, and even less time to process what was happening.

Jeon had been a constant at the helm for years. His presence had shaped the company's foundation, and you had respected him for his sharp, calculated leadership. He had guided the company with precision and there was always an understanding that he could be trusted to keep the ship steady. But now, his son, Jeon Jungkook, was stepping into his shoes. You knew little about him, except for the occasional gossip that had floated through the company—rumours that painted him as cold, unapproachable and... gorgeous.

Today was the day. You went through your morning routine on autopilot. Coffee brewed in the corner as you brushed your hair, choosing practicality over flair. A pencil skirt, a pastel blouse, and your trusty blazer—a combination that felt like armour against the unpredictability of corporate life. You grabbed your bag and headed out the door.

At this time of the morning, the bus stop was alive with the quiet energy of early morning commuters. A mix of sleepiness and determination hung in the air as people shuffled about with their eyes fixed on their phones or the horizon. You settled into your usual seat by the window, gazing at the familiar cityscape rushing by. Buildings stacked against one another and the occasional cyclist weaving through traffic—it all felt comfortingly ordinary.

By the time you reached the office, the hum of whispered speculation filled the air. As you walked through the halls, exchanging polite smiles with colleagues, you couldn’t help but notice how everyone seemed to carry a certain tension in their movements.

Soojin appeared at your side. Her usual cheery demeanour was like a ray of sunshine cutting through the tense atmosphere. She was holding a steaming cup of tea, her neatly styled bob bouncing slightly as she walked. She started working at the same time you entered the company, therefore you've become really good friends.

“Good morning!” she chirped, setting her cup down on the counter. She leaned against it, her bright eyes scanning your stack of papers. “Prepared for our big meeting with the new boss?”

“Morning, Soojin,” you replied, offering her a small smile. “Yeah, just making sure I have everything in order. First impressions matter, right?”

“Absolutely,” she said, nodding emphatically. “But don’t stress too much. From what I’ve heard, Jeon Jungkook isn’t exactly the chatty type. Rumour has it he’s more about the Finances Department than the HR one.”

You gave a small laugh, though it didn’t reach your eyes. “I’ve heard that too. But, you know, I’m still hoping he’ll be open to ideas. We'll present the proposal for improving employee morale that I think could really make a difference.”

Soojin raised an eyebrow, her expression somewhere between impressed and skeptical. “Employee morale? The one Dohyun and you made up? Bold move. I mean, don’t get me wrong, I think it’s great. But with all the talk about how cold he is, I wouldn’t be surprised if he shuts it down...”

“Maybe,” you admitted, straightening your papers and tucking them into your folder. “But I have to try, right? If we don’t focus on the people here, everything else will eventually fall apart.”

Soojin tilted her head, a soft smile playing on her lips. “That’s what I like about you. Always seeing the bright side, even when everyone else is freaking out. Just… don’t let him discourage you, okay? From what I hear, he can be a bit intimidating.”

You chuckled, though you couldn’t completely mask the nervous flutter in your stomach. “Honestly, how bad can he be? He’s human too, right?”

Soojin shrugged, her expression playful but knowing. “Sure, he’s human. But some humans are more like icebergs—most of them are hidden, and what you can see is cold and sharp.”

You shook your head, laughing softly. “Thanks for the vote of confidence.”

“Hey, I’m just saying,” Soojin said with a grin, taking her cup of tea and stepping aside as Dohyun, another member form the HR team approached, nodding a greeting to both of you. The three of you started to walk towards the conference room. “Anyway, you’ve got this. Just be yourself. If anyone can charm an iceberg, it’s you.”

Her words were meant to be encouraging, but as you adjusted your blazer, you couldn’t shake the growing knot of anxiety in your stomach. If Jeon Jungkook really was as cold and impenetrable as the rumours suggested, this meeting was going to be anything but easy.

The long, polished table gleamed under the overhead lights, the leather chairs arranged neatly around it. You set your notebook and pen in front of you, taking a moment to mentally prepare for the meeting ahead. The other members of the HR team began to trickle in—Soojin with her ever-present cheerful energy, Dohyun looking focused as always, Joonho balancing his coffee precariously in one hand, and Minji projecting her usual calm authority.

The room was alive with small talk until the atmosphere shifted. A hush fell over the space as the door opened, and in walked Jeon Jungkook.

Your first thought was how young he looked, though the sharp lines of his suit and the intensity in his eyes made it clear he wasn’t someone to be underestimated. He exuded confidence, the kind that came with knowing you didn’t need to say much to command a room. His gaze swept over the table, assessing each face with a precision that made your heart quicken. When his eyes landed on you, they lingered for a fraction of a second longer than expected, and the weight of his attention was almost tangible.

He was handsome.

He took his place at the head of the table without so much as a greeting. His assistant, Hajun, followed closely behind, setting a sleek portfolio in front of him.

"Let’s get started," Jungkook said, his voice low and firm, cutting through the silence like a blade.

You straightened in your seat, your pen poised to take notes. The meeting began, and it was immediately clear that Jungkook operated differently from his father. He listened, but his responses were curt, his tone leaving little room for argument. When your turn came to speak, you offered your carefully prepared suggestion for improving workplace morale—an idea you were confident would resonate with his father, the former CEO.

“Good morning, everyone,” you began, glancing around the table before focusing on Jungkook. His dark eyes locked onto yours, and you had to resist the urge to look away. “I’d like to propose an initiative to improve employee morale and engagement. We’ve seen a lot of changes recently, and I believe it’s crucial to invest in the well-being of our team during this transitional period.”

But Jungkook’s expression didn’t shift.

After a few seconds, he decided to say something. “That’s too idealistic,” he said flatly. His voice was calm, but the dismissal stung all the same. Every team member looked astonished, “We don’t have the resources to entertain abstract ideas right now. We need to focus on tangible results, not wishful positive thinking.”

The room went silent, all eyes shifting between you and him. A wave of heat rose to your face, but you refused to let it deter you. Taking a deep breath, you squared your shoulders and replied.

“I understand your concerns, Mr. Jeon,” you said, keeping your voice steady. “But I respectfully disagree. Employee morale isn’t an abstract idea; it’s a measurable factor that directly impacts productivity and retention. If we don’t address the root causes of disengagement now, we’ll face bigger problems down the line—higher turnover, lower performance, and potentially a damaged reputation.”

Jungkook raised an eyebrow, clearly surprised by your rebuttal. His pen paused mid-tap, and he leaned back slightly in his chair, his gaze narrowing as he studied you. For a moment, the room was still, the air thick with anticipation. Jungkook didn’t speak immediately, his expression unreadable as his gaze lingered on you.

Finally, he nodded, though it was more an acknowledgment of your persistence than an agreement. “Noted,” he said simply before shifting his attention to the next person on the agenda.

As you sat back down, your heart was racing, but you kept your composure. Soojin shot you a quick, encouraging smile from across the table, and you gave her a subtle nod in return. Jungkook’s dismissal still stung, but you couldn’t help feeling a small sense of victory. You had stood your ground, and even if he hadn’t agreed, you knew you had planted a seed.

Whether he realized it or not, Jeon Jungkook was going to hear you out—eventually.

Despite his half-rejection, you couldn’t help but notice the long hours Jungkook kept. He stayed in his office long after everyone else had left, his office door always ajar, the flicker of his desk lamp visible through the cracks. Curiosity gnawed at you, as you were heading home yourself, you decided to stop by and check in on him. Your offices were facing each other, therefore you could see everything he was doing.

You knocked lightly on the doorframe, unsure of what kind of reception you would get.

"Mr. Jeon?" you began, your voice tentative. "I noticed you’re still here. Is everything okay?"

Jungkook glanced up at you, his expression unreadable. His eyes were sharp, calculating as they locked onto yours. "I don’t need a babysitter," he muttered before quickly returning to the papers in front of him. There was no warmth in his tone, no indication that he appreciated the concern. But there was something else—something beneath his cold exterior—that you couldn’t quite place. A flicker of frustration, of exhaustion, maybe. It was there, but only for a split second.

You had expected him to shut the door in your face, but instead, he let you stand there for a few seconds longer before the silence stretched uncomfortably between you.

"I just thought… maybe you could use a break. It’s important to recharge, too," you said, trying once more, hoping to break through that thick wall he had built around himself.

He didn’t respond, just stared at you as though trying to decide whether or not your presence was a disruption. When he spoke, his voice was lower, edged with something you hadn’t heard before—a mixture of stress and frustration.

"I don’t have the luxury of downtime," he muttered, his gaze turning back to the papers in front of him, his fingers tapping against the desk in a rapid rhythm. "My father was right to step down when he did. This place it’s too much to handle..."

You didn’t know if you were meant to hear this. Jungkook’s voice cracked just slightly as he spoke, a rare moment of vulnerability that cut through his otherwise unyielding exterior. But before you could respond, he snapped, his tone returning to its familiar sharpness.

"Just go. I’ll manage," he said, his gaze hardening once more as he gestured toward the door.

As you left, you couldn’t help but feel a mix of emotions. Jungkook was difficult, a person wrapped in layers of pride and frustration, but there was something about that brief moment of honesty—something raw—that made you wonder if there was more to him than the impenetrable CEO persona he projected.

You didn’t know what the future held, but one thing was clear: this man, this new CEO, was not the cold-hearted figure he appeared to be on the surface. And perhaps, in time, you could find a way to break through that wall he had so carefully constructed around himself.

The HR office buzzed with an unusual energy, a rare break from the grind. Joonho’s birthday had turned the space into a small celebration, complete with an assortment of pastries from the bakery down the street. Laughter echoed as everyone gathered around, sipping coffee and chatting.

“Okay, okay!” Minji said, clapping her hands for attention. “We have an important task for you, sunshine.” Her tone was teasing, but her expression was determined as her gaze landed squarely on you.

You raised an eyebrow, your mouth still full of a bite of croissant. “Me? What’s this ‘important task’?”

Dohyun chimed in, leaning back in his chair with a smirk. “You’ve got to invite Mr. Jeon to join us.”

You blinked, startled. “Jeon Jungkook? The CEO? Are you serious?”

Joonho nodded vigorously, his cheeks slightly pink from the attention everyone was showering on him. “Come on! It’s my birthday, and maybe you can get him to crack a smile. Plus,” he added with a sly grin, “you’re the only one brave enough to talk back to him.”

Minji, ever the voice of reason, stepped in with a gentle smile. “It’s worth a try. Even if he says no, it’ll show that we’re trying to include him. And who knows? He might surprise us.”

You sighed, setting your half-eaten pastry on the edge of your desk. “Fine, I’ll do it. But don’t say I didn’t warn you if he declines.” The team erupted into cheers and laughter as you smoothed down your blouse, squared your shoulders, and made your way toward his office.

The door to Mr. Jeaon's office was slightly ajar, but you hesitated before knocking. A voice from inside stopped you—a woman’s voice, clear and firm. You hesitated outside his office door, adjusting your grip on the folder in your hands, but before you could knock, a low, feminine laugh drifted through the gap.

"Come on, Jungkook," the woman purred, her tone smooth and teasing. "You can’t keep shutting the world out. At some point, even you need a little... release."

Your breath caught, and your fingers froze just above the door. The casual intimacy of her words, paired with the warmth in her voice, made your face heat.

Jungkook’s reply was quieter but firm. “This isn’t the time for distractions. You know that better than anyone.”

“Oh, please,” she shot back, amusement dancing in her voice. “You’ve been coiled so tight since taking this job, I’m surprised you haven’t snapped. What’s the harm in loosening up a little? Just for tonight? As we used to...”

The suggestion hung in the air, heavy and charged. You felt your heart hammer in your chest. Should you turn back? But the folder in your hands reminded you of why you were here—no matter how awkward it might be.

Gathering your courage, you knocked lightly, hoping the sound would cut through whatever tension had been brewing inside.

The voices went silent.

“Come in,” Jungkook called, his tone now sharp and businesslike.

You pushed the door open cautiously. Jungkook stood behind his desk, phone in hand, his expression unreadable. His tie was slightly askew, and there was a faint flush at the base of his neck. The woman’s voice was gone, though the faint click of a phone being disconnected told you she was still on the other end of the call just moments ago.

He met your eyes, and for a split second, you thought you saw something flicker there—annoyance? Embarrassment? It was gone before you could decipher it.

“Miss,” he said, his voice cool. “What is it?”

You cleared your throat, trying to push past the awkwardness. “I just came to invite you to join the HR team. We’re celebrating Joonho’s birthday, and we thought it would be nice to include you.”

Jungkook raised a brow, the tension in his jaw softening slightly. “I’m busy,” he replied, gesturing to the neatly organized stack of documents on his desk. “And I don’t need any of that.”

His words were dismissive, but there was a faint edge to his tone like he was still distracted by the previous conversation.

“I see,” you said, masking your confusion with a polite smile. “Well, the invitation’s there if you change your mind. Have a good evening, Mr. Jeon.”

As you turned to leave, you couldn’t help but wonder about the woman on the phone—and the look on Jungkook’s face when he thought no one was watching. Was he dating someone? Seeing someone? Or just a fling...? You suddenly stop in your tracks, You shouldn't be thinking about our boss's private life.

Later that evening, as the office grew quiet and most of your colleagues had left, you found yourself lingering in the HR office as every other day. The leftover pastries from Joonho’s birthday were spread across the table, and your gaze fell on the last remaining matcha cream puff, Joonho’s favourite and, coincidentally, the one you had secretly saved for Jungkook.

You still couldn’t shake the tension from earlier—the clipped way he’d dismissed your invitation and the strange conversation you had overheard. The woman’s sultry tone and Jungkook’s responses echoed faintly in your mind, leaving you with more questions than answers. But one thing was clear: whatever weight Jungkook carried on his shoulders, it was heavy.

You picked up the pastry and carefully placed it in a small box, folding the lid neatly. Grabbing a purple sticky note, you scribbled a simple message:

"Eat it, please! We would have loved to have you today – Miss Y/N"

It wasn’t much, but it felt like the right thing to do—a small gesture to remind him that someone in this office cared, even if he tried to push everyone away.

With the box in hand, you made your way to his office. The lights were still on, but the room was empty, his jacket slung neatly over the back of his chair. You stepped inside hesitantly, placing the box squarely in the centre of his desk. The sticky note caught the glow of his desk lamp, and you smiled faintly at the absurdity of it all.

Would he eat it? Would he crumple up the note and toss it in the trash? You had no idea.

You turned off the light in his office as you left, leaving the pastry and the quiet note behind. As the elevator doors closed and you descended to the lobby, you couldn’t help but wonder if this tiny act of kindness might crack the icy façade Jungkook seemed determined to maintain.

If nothing else, you’d tried—and that was enough for now.

The quiet hum of the office after hours was a rare solace for Jungkook. He leaned back in his chair, fingers pinching the bridge of his nose as he replayed Yuna’s voice in his head.

“Jungkook,” she had said, her tone dripping with something he couldn’t quite place—mockery, concern, or maybe a blend of both. “You can’t keep running yourself into the ground. You’ve always had this... obsession with proving yourself. It’s exhausting just to watch, honestly.”

Her words cut deeper than he wanted to admit. Yuna had always known how to push his buttons, her insight into his insecurities as sharp as ever. “You’ve been coiled so tight since taking this job, I’m surprised you haven’t snapped. What’s the harm in loosening up a little? Just for tonight? As we used to...”

He’d ended the call quickly, his jaw tight as he shoved the phone into his pocket. He hated that she still had that effect on him, that she could twist his emotions with a single conversation.

Jungkook exhaled sharply, trying to shake off the weight of her words as he pushed open the door to his office. He froze mid-step, his gaze landing on the small box sitting on his desk. The office was dim, lit only by the city lights filtering through the large windows, but the glow of his desk lamp illuminated the neat handwriting on a sticky note:

"Eat it, please! We would have loved to have you today – Miss Y/N"

For a moment, Jungkook just stood there, staring at the note. His brow furrowed as he approached the desk, setting down the files he’d been carrying. The box was small and unassuming, but the gesture felt oddly personal—out of place in the structured world he inhabited.

He peeled the note off the box and read it again, his lips pressing into a thin line.

You.

He thought back to earlier that day, to the way you had stood in his office, your invitation soft but genuine. He’d brushed you off, too preoccupied with Yuna’s voice still echoing in his mind to give you the consideration it deserved. And yet, here you were—persisting in your quiet, unassuming way.

Curiosity got the better of him. Jungkook opened the box to reveal a matcha cream puff, the delicate pastry perfectly intact. He hesitated, his mind swirling with conflicting thoughts.

Why would she do this? What was she expecting in return?

But as he sat down and leaned back in his chair, the sharp ache in his chest from Yuna’s words began to dull. He picked up the cream puff, taking a small bite. The sweetness melted on his tongue, a stark contrast to the bitterness of these past days.

Jungkook glanced at the sticky note again, the corner of his mouth twitching as if it might curve into a smile—but it didn’t quite get there.

“Eat it, please,” he muttered under his breath, shaking his head slightly.

For the first time in what felt like forever, he let the tension in his shoulders ease. The pastry wasn’t just a dessert—it was a reminder that not everyone wanted something from him. As he finished the cream puff, Jungkook placed the note back on his desk, staring at it longer than he intended.

“Miss Y/N,” he said softly, her name a strange comfort in the quiet of his office.

He didn’t know what to make of you yet, but one thing was certain—you were different, and that unsettled him more than he cared to admit.

previous / next

[whatkindofromance]

Dabbling with this fic idea/ Edit - started writing this fic:

Soap has retired and settled down into a relatively normal civilian job. He doesn’t tell his colleagues about his previous work, they know he’s married cause of the ring but he hasn’t mentioned a word about his husband (Ghost values his privacy).

Then one day, despite his best efforts to keep to himself, Soap gets invited to a stag do with a bunch of his colleagues. He’s incredibly hesitant to go until he finds out it’s paintballing…

Safe to say he’s absolutely in his element. The team from his office are pretty useless but still, they win each match up. His colleagues are completely baffled by his ability to single handily take down the other teams so quickly. It’s fair enough there’s a lot of gossip about him when he gets back to the office but soap doesn’t indulge it. He just tells everyone he used to work at a paintball place.

He had so much fun the last time that he takes Ghost along with him for a date. They are so fast to take out other teams that they get banned. Not before Soap runs into one of his colleagues chaperoning a kids birthday party. Ghost, much to Soaps surprise introduces himself willingly as “Simon, Johnny’s husband.”

Soap then has to deal with the onslaught of questions and gossip form his colleagues. He pretended to hate it and he still won’t tell a would what he did before but secretly he loves being able to talk about Simon.

[elenauaurs]

TWISTED WONDERLAND OC

Diaval bio again hehehhee

Name: Diaval Corvo

Grade: Junior

Age: 167

Height: 1,70

Homeland: Briar Valley

Club: Board game

Best subject: Mathematics/History of magic

Hobbie: Studies on ancient writings

Pet Peeves: DOGS.

Favorite Food: Soup

Least Favorite Food: N/A

Birthday: November 3rd

Talent: Mapping (Before Book 7) - Drawing (after Book 7)

Personality

By his peers, Diaval is often considered a reserved and mysterious person, especially because of the circumstance of being one of the closest people to the Housewarden of Diasomnia. Despite this reputation, Diaval proves himself to be a caring individual and a good person to talk to, should the subject interest him.

In his own way, he has a habit of guiding people when necessary and, lately, he has been gaining a better reputation and maintaining a good relationship with his classmates. However, despite maintaining a calm and helpful demeanor towards others, Diaval can be quite proud if mocked or challenged, as well as having confidence in his own abilities.

Diaval is a good strategist, preferring to analyze a situation behind the scenes first before taking action. With this in mind, it's not too surprising that he often prefers to analyze the people around him before deciding whether or not an interaction would be beneficial for him, as well as he can also be considered a great resource to find 🫣gossip🫣 about NRC.

He can be quite vengeful, as well as quick to return a just favor. Very remorseful with people he doesn't like or who have done him wrong, but also do everything for those he holds dear. In fact, despite appearing to be logical most of the time, Diaval can be really emotional, especially with people he loves or when he feels vulnerable…

and REALLY restless when something he does goes wrong

Overall, Diaval is observant, introvert and sometimes reserved. However, he also has an ease in communicating with the people around him and is being seen interacting much more with his colleagues lately. Diaval also has difficulty talking about things that affect him, but he can show himself to be a good person to talk to and a great friend, even assuming a responsible attitude for those who need.

And he's also a big worrier for his friends.

Trivia

• He's twisted from Diablo and Diaval (Sleeping beauty and Maleficent)

• Diaval is a personal servant of Malleus, acquiring the title of The Princes’ wings in Briar Valley.

• What's the story behind his eyepatch? Ask him all you want, but the only guarantee you'll get is that he'll make up a new story every time.

• He’s a crow/raven fae

• Diaval's eyes are very sharp, being the sense he most rely on. As they say, nothing escapes his gaze.

• He’s always very well informed about what’s happening around Campus, definitely a great investigator who loves gossip.

• He doesn't like participating in swimming lessons. According to him, his wings are too heavy to swim properly.

• When it comes to food, Diaval eats absolutely everything. Lilia's food included.

• Diaval LOVES shiny things, and also enjoys giving gifts to make up for favors he has received.

• He doesn't lacks self-control, but depending on the situation, Diaval can be REALLY quite competitive.

@cyanide-latte @oya-oya-okay @theleechyskrunkly @thehollowwriter @distant-velleity @boopshoops @br3adtoasty @casp1an-sea @heyhellohihowareyou @tixdixl @sillyslipperybananapeel @cheerleaderman @revolllutionary @nyx-of-night @lumdays @skriblee-ksk @nemisisnemi @althea-and-alcestris @miyanaranagikenmal-intp @the-necromancer-wife @twistedwonderlandshenanigans

[thehauntedetheral]

Yandere Husband x Depressed Reader

Request are open.

You were so happy at the starting of summer. As a teacher you were happily spending your summer break relaxing in your house with your husband yan. No students, no lectures, no annoying colleagues. Just you, your house, the summers and your loving husband. The perfect summer.

But soon your perfect relaxing summer turned into a nightmare. Why?

Because your grandma died. What's the big deal? Every old person die someday.

But it is a huge deal to you. Because you were greatly attached with your grandma. You spent all your childhood and teenage days with her. She babysit you while your parents worked.

Most of your memories consisted of her. You and your grandma cooking, baking, gossiping, watching shows, going on walks. She was a cool chill grandma who supported you with everything.

She was your grandma, mother, friend, everything. And now she is gone. She passed away due to old age.

You were planning to spend this summer break with her as every other. But now nothing.

The person who has been there with you since you were born is no more. This broke your heart. You loved your grandma a lot.

The funeral happened, people gave their condolences, everything just flew while you were filled with grief, sadness.

What once you envisioned as a perfect summer was now nothing but a ugly reality.

Nowadays you just cry, stare at spaces, and lie in your bed while recalling all your memories with her. You wished you should have spent more time with her.

Seeing you like this broke your husband's heart. He knew how attached you were to your grandma. He just can't sit around and watch you filled with sadness. So now he has taken upon him to cheer you up.

• This man has been cooking your favourite dishes.

• Making sure your favourite icecream and snacks are stocked.

• Trying his best to make you laugh or smile by his humour.

• Bringing you flowers.

• Forcing you to go out with him on walks, picnics, dates.

"Y/n you can't just rot in the house all day. Look how beautiful the day is. Let's go out"

• Binge watching with you cheesy rom coms even though he hates them.

• Playing board games or uno with you.

• Calling over your friends to spend time with you and cheer you up when he is away at work.

• This man tries his best to be their for you.

• Constantly tells you that "I am there for you" " You can vent to me all you want".

• Takes you in his arms while you are crying and tries his best to console you.

• Listens to everything you are saying while crying.

• Reads everything on how to support your spouse when their grandparent pass away. And follows the instructions.

• Brings your favourite deserts.

• Makes sure you take your meals. As you have been neglecting them recently.

• "You know she is always there with you. Watching over you. She loves you a lot. She won't want you to cry over her like this. " Yan would say things like this to make you feel better.

Days went by and you felt better as yan, your friends and parents cheered you up. You were so grateful for having them in your life. Especially Yan. He took care of you at your lowest like a baby.

You were on a walk with yan or more specifically yan dragged you out with him out for a walk while saying "Let's get some fresh air. Being all day in house is not so good."

While walking hand in hand with yan you felt overwhelmed with thinking how much he helped, listened, pampered, supported you while you were in grief.

"Thank you for everything. " You said to him while feeling so lucky to have him in your life as your husband.

"Through Better and worse" Yan said making you remember your wedding vows making you smile.

Suddenly You remember your grandma words which she said to you at your wedding about yan.

"He is so badly in love with you. I am so happy you found such a good person for yourself."

Guess, she was absolutely right.

For more yandere reading :

[madridfangirl]

Three is a crowd!

Jude bellingham blurb.

Jude gets jealous to see his girlfriend with her admirer at a party. And he makes his feelings known.

...............................................................

Jude took one final look at himself in the mirror. Satisfied, he quickly picked up the gift bag and headed out for the party. He was late, but he could still make it for some time.

It was Roma’s birthday. Her boyfriend was in town for the week so she had decided to throw a small pool party at one of their colleague’s places. Of course, with Roma, nothing was small, not really. A cozy gathering meant for close friends & colleagues had turned into a guest list of 50+, as Ananya had huffed exasperatingly.

But hey, it was her day, and she quite liked to be treated as a princess on her day, so everyone just played along. Even Chris, who was a lot like Ananya in terms of keeping things small & private, had agreed wholeheartedly that it was a great plan. Roma sometimes joked that Chris should be with Ananya and she should be with Jude, given how similar their personalities were. 

Jude was also looking forward to see his girlfriend, who he hadn’t seen much of in the last few days because she was busy planning the party for her best friend. And with Roma, it was more of a birthday week than just one day so a lot was going on in their apartment. 

He had recently gone public with Ananya, just over two weeks ago, in early August, shortly post the Euros. After a lot of deliberation, they figured it was the right time. Ananya had gotten into Stanford and was leaving for the US mid-September, where the scrutiny would be much lesser than Madrid. And she was already on notice period in her office, so the impact on her work situation would be subdued too. Big tournaments were over, it was the beginning of a new season, so no expectation per se of being seen together in big matches. And Jude really really wanted to do this before she left for 2 long years. He had managed to convince her it was the right time, and she couldn’t deny the logic. 

The act of going public was via a photo Jude had posted on his story, of the two of them. Jobe had clicked it at their family home in Birmingham a few months ago - a simple shot of them sitting together outdoors for barbecue, Jude’s arm around her shoulders and her head resting slightly on his shoulder, a happy smile on their faces, eyes sparkling with contentment. Ananya had diligently gone through all their photos to pick the absolute appropriate one, and Jude agreed with the choice. 

Along with the photo was a caption of Jude announcing that he was seeing her, but no tag was made to her private account. And there was an explicit request for privacy, stating she is a private person. The expected backlash came, but not as much as she was anticipating. There was obviously a lot of immediate interest in knowing more about her but there wasn’t anything on the internet since her insta was private & she wasn’t on other socials. So the fan pages & gossip sites didn’t have much to go on after a week and the trending went down. Gradually, most fans turned quite vociferous that the couple should get the privacy that they were requesting for, after they realised this was not some stunt & the pair genuinely wanted to keep it low key. In fact, people respected the fact that he was announcing his commitment & not playing any games with them or the media. And they respected it even more that the girl wanted no part of this limelight, that she was actually a normal girl. Well, most people did. There was of course the lot who called her too simple & basic and thoroughly undeserving of their prince. 

Jude had offered to get her security for the time she was in Madrid but she wanted to just stay normal. They had agreed to revisit it if things got crazy, but thankfully it didn’t, since Jude & his team were super tight-lipped about her & the house stance was there will be no further comment on this. So even the tabloids didn’t have much to go on beyond the speculative pieces. She had conceded to let Agnes be her dedicated chauffeur though, out of concern for people recognising her on the streets or in the metro. 

Her office had been another story. It was right in the heart of Madrid and people were simply stunned with this development. On the first day back at work, a random woman who Ananya had never seen before sat next to her in the cafeteria and straight up asked how Jude was in bed. Ananya was tongue-tied. Then, Roma stood up to give a cutting speech for people to drop their creepiness and get a life. Post that, the murmurs at the back continued but folks didn’t bother asking her this stuff directly. 

Some girls were red with jealousy, in sheer disbelief of how someone ‘plain’ like Ananya could land Jude or where they would have even met. It initially bothered Ananya, but with Roma’s help she eventually started finding it amusing. Of course with her close girl gang she still had to answer a lot of questions, with their giggling faces staring at her, but that was something she didn’t think she could ever get out of.

Jude was super present during that first week, calling / texting her every few hours, to the point of annoying her. But she appreciated the nagging; she knew he was doing it to distract her and it worked. Overall, the going public thing had gone as smoothly as was realistically possible in their situation. 

And tonight would be the first time they would be out together, outside of their closest friends or his family. Jude was quite looking forward to it. She didn’t know he was going to be there, since he had an overlapping shoot, but it got done quickly & he wanted to surprise her. Well, Roma too, but mostly her.

‘Hey man, wassup?’

Chris greeted him warmly when he entered. Chris was an American & not a football fan, so was quite chill with Jude. 

‘Hey, where’s the birthday girl?’

‘Oh she’s everywhere. Just saw her like 2 mins ago.’

‘And you’re on gate duty?’

‘Pretty much.’

‘Figures.’

‘Oh my god YOU MADE IT.’

Roma dashed from across the room and hugged Jude tightly, making him smile.

‘What a welcome. And Happy Birthdayyy!’

‘Thank you. And what do we have here?’

She looked at the bag curiously, spotting the RM logo on it. Jude handed it to her, and fully expected the resulting shriek when she saw the signed Zidane jersey inside.

‘I LOVE YOU. OH MY GOD. Best day of my life.’

Jude & Chris smiled at her antics as she spun around with joy while hugging the jersey. Shortly after, Jude excused himself to find his girl, making his way to the pool where Roma had last seen her.

But he froze in the doorway. Because she was there, with HIM.

The last person Jude ever wanted to see in this world, was standing next to his girlfriend, immersed in a deep conversation. Her full attention was on him, nodding along, as if he had just discovered all the unknown secrets of the universe & was sharing his findings. What a fucking leech!

Jude had done a fantastic job of just zoning this guy out from their lives. They never talked about him since that Christmas cabin visit. Even though he knew they saw each other at work every day. The understanding was that she would tell him if anything major ever happens with that guy or anyone else. She hadn’t said anything, so Jude knew nothing of note had happened. But unfortunately, that didn’t mean that he stopped existing. Around her. Coz he was still very much there. And this moment just made it too fucking real. 

If it were up to Jude, that guy won’t ever be in the 10km radius of her. Obviously, at work, he couldn’t control that. But there was no fucking way he was going to let this little scene continue here. Hell no. It was time to show that irritating insect his place.

Ananya felt Jude’s presence, a shift in the air, a whiff of his cologne, before she felt his hand on her waist, turning her slightly towards him, into his side.

‘Hey baby.’

He said in an audible sing-song voice. Their eyes met. And in that split second, her eyes urged him to appreciate the situation & be the bigger person but Jude was having none of that. 

His other hand cupped her jaw, and she shut her eyes when Jude tilted her face up & leaned in for a kiss, letting his lips linger for two seconds more than a casual greeting kiss. His hand on her jaw firmly covering the meeting of their lips, shielding her & their moment from that guy’s gaze, somehow managing to make his point yet keeping it private.

Ananya knew fully well what he was doing. But there was nothing she could do. He would never admit his little ploy and would throw something like ‘what I can’t kiss my girlfriend?’ or ‘what’s your excuse now?’

And she had no logical reason. Because the argument to be sensitive to Arjun’s feelings would be a non-starter for Jude. 

Also, even after 10 months together, she still got a little lightheaded when he held her & kissed her like this. Her hand automatically clutched his shirt lightly as he kept her steady with his hold on her waist. She sighed a little when he broke the kiss, still leaning into him, holding on to him, needing a moment to recover while Jude dropped his hand from her face and turned to look at the immobile guy standing in front of them.

Arjun felt bile rise in his throat in real time. He wanted to run, but felt like his feet had been plastered into the ground. 

Jude fucking Bellingham was standing in front of him. Kissing the girl who had stolen his heart so badly that he was still trying to put the pieces back together. 

His favourite player of the season, from his lifelong favourite club, was dating the girl of his dreams. The girl who was simply perfect for him in every which way. But had chosen to go with the guy who already had so much. Way too much, yet he took her too. 

How was it fair? It was like some super-natural forces of the universe aligned to make her pick him. She wasn’t like that, not her. In fact she hated such intrusive attention. The connection had to be that deep for her to be willing to deal with all that came with it, and even go public with him.

The last thought made him sick. But Arjun recovered quickly when Jude turned to look at him.

An awkward staring contest ensued. Neither men breaking it. Jude didn’t want to and Arjun didn’t know how to. 

It just hit Arjun what his current favourite player must have thought of him all these months, & none of those would have been remotely pleasant thoughts. It also soured the Clasico experience for him. Watching it live at the Bernabeu was one of his most treasured memories, but now he understood how they were in the VIP box and who she was with that night when Arjun & others were out partying after the match. It made him look at it in a very different light. That was the night he had lost her. 

Not that he ever had her, or even tried to. For weeks before that night, he had thought of asking her out. His best friend had nudged him multiple times. But Arjun believed that rushing things with her won’t go well. She needed time & space to first get to know him, only after that he could make a move. 

But lo & behold, rules of the game didn’t apply to this privileged golden boy. He came out of nowhere & swept her off her feet. What were the odds? But clearly his luck defied all odds. What a surprise! A cruel joke!

It also wasn’t lost on him where Jude’s hand was firmly planted - below her waist but right above her butt. Like only a boyfriend could. He looked away, he just had to.

Ananya had recovered by then & tugged on Jude’s shirt lightly to break the deafening silence. He complied with a curt nod to Arjun.

‘Jude.’

No handshake, no warm side-hug. A very un-like Jude kinda greeting. 

Arjun almost wanted to scoff. Like he didn’t know who Jude was. Actually, he wished he didn’t know him. Watching him on his screen every match would be painful now. 

‘Arjun.’

He nodded back. Ananya was secretly glad that Arjun didn’t lose his bearing in front of Jude. Most guys would have in this situation, especially when Jude was being kinda brattish. 

The two men couldn’t have been more different. Jude was dressed head to toe in a chic designer ensemble, oozing natural ease & confidence, while Arjun was in a sharp formal shirt & trousers, measured & classy. 

She tried to come up with something smart to say, anything to cut the tension here, but her brain betrayed her at the worst possible moment. So she took an easy way out.

‘Umm let’s get a drink Jude?’

The said man turned towards her, and his gaze softened immediately as he nodded.

She grabbed his arm & started leading him towards the bar, away from the scene.

‘See you tomorrow!’

Ananya bid her goodbye politely to Arjun.

‘Yeah let’s continue where we left off.’

That irked Jude. A lot. He almost wanted to turn around & say something, but Ananya was diligently dragging him away. Well, she was trying. So he swallowed his irritation & played along. A drink won’t hurt at this time.

Thankfully, they found a fairly tipsy Roma at the bar, and her overjoyed mood rubbed off on the rest. Ananya felt the tension in Jude’s posture ease gradually, and his arm wrapped around her shoulders from behind. She leaned back into him, and allowed herself to drown in the merriment around her. Later, Roma dragged the group to the makeshift dance floor as the DJ blared one hit after the other.

After dancing & drinking their hearts out, Roma & Ananya somehow found themselves hugging each other, swaying to the music. Jude & Chris let them be, enjoying their drinks, and were on catching duty in case one of them trips, which looked very likely to them.

‘What a great party!’

‘It really is, isn’t it?’

‘I’m so glad you’re having the best birthday.’

‘Well, I’m with my fav people, so…’

‘Awww.’

‘How’s the ‘I love Ananya’ club going?’

Ananya rolled her eyes loudly & lightly smacked her arm, but Roma just shrugged & laughed.

‘Not too bad I guess.’

‘Has Jude tried to hit him?’

‘NO.’

‘Curse him?’

‘NO.’

‘Has he tried to drag you to the washroom to take you then & there?’

‘Oh god no.’

‘So it’s going pretty good then.’

‘I guess so.’

Jude decided to intervene in that moment, wrapping an arm each around both of them.

‘Heard my name. Missing me much?’

‘Think of the devil…..’

Roma said dramatically.

‘Pls, you love me. And a bit more after today.’

When Ananya enquired what they were referring to, Roma mentioned the signed jersey, and Ananya immediately turned to look at Jude, crossing her arms.

‘There’s one waiting for you at home. Did you really think I’d forget about you?’

She smiled, untangled herself from Roma & went to give Jude a big hug, which he reciprocated immediately. And Roma left the lovebirds alone to attend other guests.

It was that time of the night when the people were high and music had mellowed down to match the vibe. Ananya’s face was buried in his chest, tucked under his chin, as he held her & swayed her lightly to the tune.

‘Are people looking?’

‘Doesn’t matter.’

‘But….’

‘Doesn’t matter babe. And no, not too much actually.’

‘Hmmm.’

Jude slowly caressed her back, which relaxed her & she sighed into his chest, losing herself in the moment again. She could do that, drink freely & not worry about a thing, coz Jude was here now. 

Arjun had tried very hard to keep the happy couple out of his sight, since that puke inducing moment. He even tried to respond to the advances of a hot blonde girl he had never seen before, who was talking like a 7 yr old for some reason, but Arjun tried to focus more on the hotness piece for now. And how she was half falling over him, rubbing his arm repeatedly. 

Despite his best efforts, his eyes flicked at times towards her. What hit him more was not so much the kiss (it was painful, no question) but the deep emotional intimacy & connection she seemed to share with the other guy. 

The way she smiled at him; it was the same smile Arjun had seen many times in the office when she looked at a text on her phone or went to take a quick call in one of the empty conference rooms. 

The way her skin flushed at his suggestive touches, or when he leaned over to whisper something teasing in her ear. (Arjun had to fight to not imagine how flushed she would get in other situations.)

The way she melted into his arms, fully in sync, moving when he moved, sharing an unspoken language with him, talking through their eyes. So fucking palpably in love. 

But she looked happy. At peace. How could he ever be mad at that? How could he ever wish for that to go away? He couldn’t.

Arjun did wonder though what Jude did to deserve such unconditional bond with her. DID HE DESERVE it at all? He was a footballer after all - a young, rich, popular, handsome one whose fame had just skyrocketed. Their history with women was no secret, nor was their lifestyle. Even in the last year, there were multiple articles about him speculating his relationships. Was he cheating on her & manipulating her to believe otherwise? Coz she won’t tolerate cheating, Arjun knew she would walk away. So why then did she choose to stick with him? When it was quite obvious how this would end. One day, he’d hurt her. Bad. And she, of all people, didn’t deserve it. Arjun just wished she sees that soon, before she gets too attached. But it looked like that ship had already sailed.

The blonde girl was making heart eyes at him by now, after blabbering something about wanting to take a drive, and that was his cue to get the fuck out of this party. Away from the sight of them.

Ananya swayed in Jude’s arms for god knows how long. She was relieved at how he had calmed down, and was quite proud of how maturely he had handled the situation after the initial hiccup. But later that night, when they were in the car with Roma & Chris, on their way back from the party, she felt something shift in his mood from the way his hand gripped her thigh, firmly & possessively.

Roma suggested an afterparty at their apartment but Jude intervened decisively to say Ananya & him would head to his place, which was on the way to the girls’ apartment. When they reached, Jude opened the door, extended a hand to help Ananya out & bid goodbye to the other couple. Ananya felt his turmoil from the way he held her hand tightly, and the short walk from their driveway to the main door made her nervous. 

Once inside, when Jude was locking the door & putting the alarm on, Ananya had to think quickly on her feet. When he turned around, she extended her arms towards him, cocking her head to the side, smiling lazily, something she knew he found adorable. Indicating that she wanted to be carried.

Jude looked at her face, then her arms, then back at those pouty lips. His eyes softened & he exhaled sharply, giving in.

When he picked her up, she thought she would be carried upstairs to the comfort of their bed but Jude brought her to the garden, to the edge of the pool.

‘What are we doing here?’

‘Well, you said you had never been thrown in the pool at a pool party.’

But he didn’t throw her in. The pool was only 5 feet & he didn’t wanna risk a bad fall. So he set her down, took off everything he was wearing (barring his briefs) and swiftly slipped inside the pool.

‘Come on in.’

She was wearing a deep blue summer dress, thin straps at the top, fitted till the waist and widely flowing from waist-down till below her knees. 

‘The dress?’

‘Take it off.’

‘We are outside.’

‘It’s dark. Only the porch light is on.’

It was dark. Only moonlight twinkling on the water. Plus the yard had high trees & fences. But it was still outside & it made her nervous. Especially now, when so much attention was on them. She’d be damned if someone saw them half-naked in the pool. 

Jude ducked his head in & emerged back, fully wet, water dripping from his sharp jaw-line & hair.  Eyes only on her. Straight out of a wet obscene dream. Impossible to say no to.

Slowly, she took off the dress, & his hungry gaze landed on her matching deep blue lingerie, escorting her as she stepped inside the pool. He stayed still, letting her come to him.

Ananya wanted to talk about what he was feeling, but Jude had other plans. Wildly different plans.  When she scooted close & cupped his cheeks, staring into his turbulent eyes, Jude caught her wrists, pinning them behind her back firmly, and crashed their lips together in a kiss that made her hot all over in the cool water.

He let her wrists go, moving his hands to her boobs, squeezing them hard, taking off the wretched garment covering the sweet mounds, tearing his mouth away from her lips to suck the hardening nubs. She gasped at the sudden intensity, trying to hold on to his shoulders to anchor herself, but his actions were rapid, not letting her settle.

‘Jude…honey….pls look at me….’

She tried to cup his cheeks again, but Jude lifted her by her waist & placed her on the steps, spreading her legs wide apart. Her panties were ripped off in seconds and she grabbed the railing on the steps when Jude moved his mouth between her lags, lapping at her with a pace that made her want to scream. And she did scream when he ate her out relentlessly, making her wet for more than one reason. 

The intensity of his mouth made her clutch the back of his head, trying to slow him down but Jude grabbed her hips harshly and used the angle to double down, not coming up till he completely shattered her, making her scream his name in agony mixed with ecstasy, forcing her to peak over & over with the force of his will. Only stopping when she fell forward, catching her before she slipped, letting her rest against his torso as she panted into his chest. Sweaty wet bodies squished together.

He let her catch her breath, threading his fingers through her hair absentmindedly, before backing her against the wall of the pool, lifting her by the butt to wrap her legs around his waist, and lowering himself inside her with a few quick, precise strokes.

They were face to face now, her arms around his neck, as he briskly moved inside her, manoeuvring her lower body to constantly hit different angles, making her gasp with almost each stroke. 

Her nails dug into his shoulders as she weakly pressed her lips against his, breathing into his mouth. 

‘I love you.’

She whispered. And he just thrusted harder, sending shockwaves through her body. 

‘Jude….I love you.’

He tensed, following it up with another frenzied thrust.

‘And HE loves you. STILL.’

Ananya shut her eyes, feeling his hurt, while her body thrummed with pleasure. She didn’t want their private moments to be infiltrated by someone else’s thoughts, this should just be about the two of them.

‘Not denying it then?’

She pulled herself apart a bit to look into his stormy eyes - rougher than a tsunami, more intense than the depths of an ocean.

‘You’re….not…letting me…speak..’

He groaned animatedly, only half satisfied with the response, and went back to ravishing her. Usually, when Jude had a task that he set his mind to, he executed it flawlessly. This was no different. His mission to drown his frustration under her breathless moans was playing out to the T. Momentarily, he forgot the pang he felt in his heart when he saw the two of them together. And the realisation that this happened every fucking day. That creature saw her, lurked around her every fucking day. And there was nothing Jude could do about it. 

She came again, screaming his name, her walls squeezing him deliciously, wrangling his high out of him too. Coating her insides fully, not separating till he was convinced she won’t drip.

Jude helped her out of the pool, on to the lounger on the side, and slowly tapped at her soaked form with a towel. She took over a few moments later, and he went to fetch a towel for himself.

When her senses recovered, she wrapped the towel around herself & quickly looked around to find any sign of anyone possibly watching them, but as Jude had meticulously explained so many times, it wasn’t possible. Someone could have heard her though, she was convinced she sounded like a cat that ran under a car.

Her boyfriend was drying himself a few steps away, his back to her. His words were still playing at the back of her mind. She stood up gently, her legs a bit wobbly still, and hugged him from behind, resting her face on his broad back.

He sighed, covering her hand with his.

‘You okay?’

‘More than ok. Coz I’m with you.’

When he didn’t say anything, she walked around him to look at his pretty (& still wet) face, finally cupping his cheeks softly and pulling him down for a lingering kiss. 

‘Take me to bed now?’

‘Yeah.’

She was lifted bridal style again, and she smiled this time, loving the princess treatment. Walking away, she could vaguely see their undergarments just floating in the pool, & made a mental note of fixing that later. She’d absolutely die if the housekeeper finds them like that.

When they passed the kitchen on their way up, Jude asked if she wanted to have something, given she had a fair bit to drink. But she just wanted to hold him & kiss him & tell him how much she loved him. Why it didn’t matter what a third person might feel. This was just about the two of them.

He laid her on the bed, and she pulled him down next to her, curling into his side, placing soft kisses on his chest.

‘My baby.’

She cooed to him, reaching up to caress his face, showering him with affection before broaching the sensitive topic.

Jude’s head was still all over the place. And her soft, inviting body rubbing against his made his blood rush south. Fast & hard. He was nowhere close to being done with her, not tonight.

When Jude pulled her towel off, flipped her to get on top, pinning her hands over her head (all in a few seconds), she squirmed & wriggled underneath him, breaking away from his kiss. That offended him, deeply.

‘What?’

‘Wait…pls wait.’

‘We should talk first.’

‘About what?’

‘You know what.’

‘I don’t want to. Not now. Later.’

He dove in again and she evaded his mouth again. 

‘SERIOUSLY? You’re saying no to me now?’

Jude wasn’t used to that. She had never refused him when he was in such a mood and needed her badly. His mind obviously linked it to an unpleasant reason, & she saw the hurt instantly on his face.

Agitated, he rolled away from her, sitting up on the bed. She sat up too, pulling the sheet around herself, and shifted next to him, speaking softly. 

‘I’m not saying no. Just saying we should talk first.’

‘And I’m saying I don’t wanna talk right now. That counts for nothing?’

‘It’s not good to bottle things between us, baby. It’s not healthy.’

‘I will just fucking end up saying something that would get you mad. Can’t you see that?’

‘I won’t get mad. Wanna hear what’s in your heart.’

She moved to caress his back but he stood up abruptly to pace around the bed.

‘I HATE HIM.’

‘I know.’

‘I HATE that he’s with you every fucking day. Looking at you. Fantasising about you. Fucking son of a…’

‘Jude. I hear you. And I get it. But pls believe me when I say this - I’ve never felt uncomfortable around him. A girl knows, she just knows. He’s not like that.’

He stopped pacing & crossed his arms, staring straight at her.

‘Oh he’s not, yeah?’

‘Yes, he’s not. If I would have felt uncomfortable even once, I would have done something about it. Remember our deal? I said I’d come to you if there ever was anything - but it’s just not true. Not when he was….when he had….feelings. And not now, when he has moved on.’

Jude looked at her like a detective investigating a criminal.

‘How do know he has moved on?’

Ananya took a deep breath to calm herself. Did he think she was keeping tabs or something? 

‘Roma told me he’s been on a few dates. Even with women in our office.’

‘How do you know those are dates & not hook-ups?’

‘How does that even matter?’

Jude scoffed like she asked him something silly, which irked her.

‘Hook-ups are for sex. Doesn’t mean he’s over you.’

She looked at him with irritation, looking for something to beat his logic.

‘He’s not the hookups type. At least….I don’t think so.’

This time, Jude simply laughed in her face.

‘Sure, so he’ll just say no to sex yeah? You’re so cute sometimes. I’ve NEVER met a man like that.’

His tone & presumptuousness was starting to get on her nerves now. What was the poor guy supposed to do? Die? Leave the city? His job? Because Jude didn’t like him? It had been 10 months for crying out loud. The world does not revolve around one person. 

‘Not everyone is like….’

She checked herself at the last second, horrified, but Jude pounced on it.

‘Like what? Like me? That’s it, isn’t it? You think he’s better than me, don’t you? Morally superior, high Indian values and all that? Someone you can take to your parents easily? Where you don’t have to set the ground for MONTHS and even then want to wait for the right time for an in-person meeting, like in our case? SAY IT ANANYA.’

She flinched at his words and the hurt in his voice. Shaken, she rushed to him, throwing her arms around him desperately, whispering sorry into his chest. He didn’t say anything, but his posture eased, deflated. She dragged him to the edge of the bed, making him sit down & then climbed into his lap, kissing all over his face.

‘I’m sorry honey. Didn’t mean it like that. I’m so sorry.’

She kissed his face again, and he loosely wrapped his arms around her.

Ananya cupped his cheeks and made him look into her eyes.

‘Listen to me. No third person can come between us, not anymore. No one can sway us, unless our intent is to cheat. Do you think I want to?’

‘No.’

‘Then that’s it. Whatever he or anyone else might feel is irrelevant. You can hate him & you’re justified, I won’t stop you.’

‘But you don’t hate him.’

‘I don’t have a reason to.’

‘And you have a soft corner for him, you always defend him. Don’t deny that.’

She wasn’t going to insult his intelligence by denying that.

‘Maybe.’

‘Why? What has it always been there?’

‘Initially, coz he was kind, respectful & not chauvinistic. It’s rare in my field, believe me. And then later…..’

She had to pick her words carefully, especially when Jude was watching her like a hawk.

‘Maybe I feel guilty….for hurting him unknowingly. And I am thankful that he respected my choice & never made me uncomfortable. That’s also rare in my field, and for men in general.’

‘What if he’s using that to wait in the wings, waiting for me to fuck this up so he can be the knight in shining armour?’

‘He’ll have to keep waiting then.’

‘Can you promise me that?’

‘Promise you what?’

‘That you’ll never be with him. No matter what.’

She looked at his face curiously, thinking over this strange ask. Unfair ask. The feminist in her was screaming inside that it was wildly inappropriate for him to ask her this. He had no right to. What she did if they didn’t end up together was really none of his business. How could he try to dictate her life like that? 

But the girlfriend in her could see that her man was hurting. The way his eyes were twitching, waiting for her response, the way his hands were fidgeting on her back, the nervous gulps, the way his voice broke when he said that last line - Jude was in pain and if it was in her power to soothe him, she was absolutely going to.

‘Ok.’

This caught him off guard. He was 90% sure this would be one of the things that would make her mad. But he knew he wanted this promise from the moment he saw the two of them together.

‘Happy now?’

He shook his head & rested his forehead against hers.

‘Scared.’

‘Why, my love? You have me, all of me.’

‘Feels like you’ll slip away, no matter how hard I try to keep you mine. If it’s not this asshole, it might be some other prick from this super elite school you are going to, a million miles away.’

‘Your fear is growing, coz your love for me is growing. That’s how love works.’

‘It’s wretched.’

‘Sure is.’

‘Do you feel it too, the fear?’

‘All the time. Like at least a million women would kill to be in my place, I know that.’

‘But no one can be you.’

‘And no one can be you.’

‘Man I love you.’

‘Finally. Kept me waiting all day.’

They moved at the same time for a kiss, sighing into each others’ mouth. 

‘Need one more promise.’

‘What now?’

‘You’ll let me fly you down whenever you can spare any time. None of this ‘I can’t splurge on you’ nonsense anymore. It’s not splurging. I NEED you. I fucking need you with me.’

‘Ok.’

‘Don’t go back on this later.’

‘I won’t.’

‘God I’m gonna miss you. How is it just a month? You’ll be gone, and I won’t get to hold you every night, see this face every morning.’

She was trying very hard to hold herself together but this did her in. Her choked voice came in a whisper.

‘And…you think I won’t miss you too?’

A tear rolled down her cheek, jolting him instantly.

‘Hey, hey….shhhhh.’

‘When I’m the one going away, when I’m the one putting us through this, don’t you think I feel guilty?’

‘Oh baby, no, not this. It’s ok.’

He wiped her tears, patting her back slowly.

‘How is it ok, when I wake up in the middle of the night & stare at your sleeping face, and it makes me NOT WANT TO GO?’

With that, all the pent up emotions of last few months came out, along with the waterworks. Jude held her through it, letting her soak his shoulder with her emotions, cooing softly into her ear.

Minutes later, when she calmed down & clung to his chest, an idea struck him.

‘I have the perfect thing to make you feel better.’

She thought he was talking about sleeping. She couldn’t be more wrong.

He wrestled the sheets off from around her, with her still in his lap, and lifted her by her butt to carry her to the large French window in his bedroom.

‘Let’s make new memories together. You get what I mean by ‘new’ yeah?’

‘I always get what you mean. You’re never subtle.’

‘That’s your department. I just take what I want.’

With that, he flipped her naked body & pressed her front to the window, the cold glass making her shudder.

This was not like the pool. It looked into the street. Ananya could see cars passing by and some people too. There were still lights outside.

‘Jude people can….’

‘Dark inside. Lights outside. They can’t see us. Basic science.’

‘But…’

Before she could finish the sentence, he lifted one of her legs to get the right angle & pressed his tip against her entrance, his other hand coming to her front, sliding down to rub circles on her clit. Shutting her up. For words at least.

For the next half hour, she was pushed & thrusted against the window, her body & laboured breaths painting the glass with marks. As he moved her like he owned her. And maybe he did. And maybe she liked that.

Later that night, Jude woke her up with kisses down her back, starting from that spot right at the back of her neck which immediately made her gooey. Her sleepy eyes, groggy voice & messy hair spread across the pillow turning him on even more. Telling her that since they only had a month left before she leaves, they had to make their time extra efficient. Basic logic. She quipped that it was ‘basic Jude logic’ but shifted readily on her back to invite him in & even helped him to get ‘ready’ quickly. Like he knew she would. Like they were perfectly in sync, as Arjun had so righty observed.

.....................................

There you go. 6.4k words.

I came back after a long time & enjoyed writing this.

Jude took one final look at himself in the mirror. Satisfied, he quickly picked up the gift bag and headed out for the party. He was late, but he could still make it for some time.

It was Roma’s birthday. Her boyfriend was in town for the week so she had decided to throw a small pool party at one of their colleague’s places. Of course, with Roma, nothing was small, not really. A cozy gathering meant for close friends & colleagues had turned into a guest list of 50+, as Ananya had huffed exasperatingly.

But hey, it was her day, and she quite liked to be treated as a princess on her day, so everyone just played along. Even Chris, who was a lot like Ananya in terms of keeping things small & private, had agreed wholeheartedly that it was a great plan. Roma sometimes joked that Chris should be with Ananya and she should be with Jude, given how similar their personalities were. 

Jude was also looking forward to see his girlfriend, who he hadn’t seen much of in the last few days because she was busy planning the party for her best friend. And with Roma, it was more of a birthday week than just one day so a lot was going on in their apartment. 

He had recently gone public with Ananya, just over two weeks ago, in early August, shortly post the Euros. After a lot of deliberation, they figured it was the right time. Ananya had gotten into Stanford and was leaving for the US mid-September, where the scrutiny would be much lesser than Madrid. And she was already on notice period in her office, so the impact on her work situation would be subdued too. Big tournaments were over, it was the beginning of a new season, so no expectation per se of being seen together in big matches. And Jude really really wanted to do this before she left for 2 long years. He had managed to convince her it was the right time, and she couldn’t deny the logic. 

The act of going public was via a photo Jude had posted on his story, of the two of them. Jobe had clicked it at their family home in Birmingham a few months ago - a simple shot of them sitting together outdoors for barbecue, Jude’s arm around her shoulders and her head resting slightly on his shoulder, a happy smile on their faces, eyes sparkling with contentment. Ananya had diligently gone through all their photos to pick the absolute appropriate one, and Jude agreed with the choice. 

Along with the photo was a caption of Jude announcing that he was seeing her, but no tag was made to her private account. And there was an explicit request for privacy, stating she is a private person. The expected backlash came, but not as much as she was anticipating. There was obviously a lot of immediate interest in knowing more about her but there wasn’t anything on the internet since her insta was private & she wasn’t on other socials. So the fan pages & gossip sites didn’t have much to go on after a week and the trending went down. Gradually, most fans turned quite vociferous that the couple should get the privacy that they were requesting for, after they realised this was not some stunt & the pair genuinely wanted to keep it low key. In fact, people respected the fact that he was announcing his commitment & not playing any games with them or the media. And they respected it even more that the girl wanted no part of this limelight, that she was actually a normal girl. Well, most people did. There was of course the lot who called her too simple & basic and thoroughly undeserving of their prince. 

Jude had offered to get her security for the time she was in Madrid but she wanted to just stay normal. They had agreed to revisit it if things got crazy, but thankfully it didn’t, since Jude & his team were super tight-lipped about her & the house stance was there will be no further comment on this. So even the tabloids didn’t have much to go on beyond the speculative pieces. She had conceded to let Agnes be her dedicated chauffeur though, out of concern for people recognising her on the streets or in the metro. 

Her office had been another story. It was right in the heart of Madrid and people were simply stunned with this development. On the first day back at work, a random woman who Ananya had never seen before sat next to her in the cafeteria and straight up asked how Jude was in bed. Ananya was tongue-tied. Then, Roma stood up to give a cutting speech for people to drop their creepiness and get a life. Post that, the murmurs at the back continued but folks didn’t bother asking her this stuff directly. 

Some girls were red with jealousy, in sheer disbelief of how someone ‘plain’ like Ananya could land Jude or where they would have even met. It initially bothered Ananya, but with Roma’s help she eventually started finding it amusing. Of course with her close girl gang she still had to answer a lot of questions, with their giggling faces staring at her, but that was something she didn’t think she could ever get out of.

Jude was super present during that first week, calling / texting her every few hours, to the point of annoying her. But she appreciated the nagging; she knew he was doing it to distract her and it worked. Overall, the going public thing had gone as smoothly as was realistically possible in their situation. 

And tonight would be the first time they would be out together, outside of their closest friends or his family. Jude was quite looking forward to it. She didn’t know he was going to be there, since he had an overlapping shoot, but it got done quickly & he wanted to surprise her. Well, Roma too, but mostly her.

‘Hey man, wassup?’

Chris greeted him warmly when he entered. Chris was an American & not a football fan, so was quite chill with Jude. 

‘Hey, where’s the birthday girl?’

‘Oh she’s everywhere. Just saw her like 2 mins ago.’

‘And you’re on gate duty?’

‘Pretty much.’

‘Figures.’

‘Oh my god YOU MADE IT.’

Roma dashed from across the room and hugged Jude tightly, making him smile.

‘What a welcome. And Happy Birthdayyy!’

‘Thank you. And what do we have here?’

She looked at the bag curiously, spotting the RM logo on it. Jude handed it to her, and fully expected the resulting shriek when she saw the signed Zidane jersey inside.

‘I LOVE YOU. OH MY GOD. Best day of my life.’

Jude & Chris smiled at her antics as she spun around with joy while hugging the jersey. Shortly after, Jude excused himself to find his girl, making his way to the pool where Roma had last seen her.

But he froze in the doorway. Because she was there, with HIM.

The last person Jude ever wanted to see in this world, was standing next to his girlfriend, immersed in a deep conversation. Her full attention was on him, nodding along, as if he had just discovered all the unknown secrets of the universe & was sharing his findings. What a fucking leech!

Jude had done a fantastic job of just zoning this guy out from their lives. They never talked about him since that Christmas cabin visit. Even though he knew they saw each other at work every day. The understanding was that she would tell him if anything major ever happens with that guy or anyone else. She hadn’t said anything, so Jude knew nothing of note had happened. But unfortunately, that didn’t mean that he stopped existing. Around her. Coz he was still very much there. And this moment just made it too fucking real. 

If it were up to Jude, that guy won’t ever be in the 10km radius of her. Obviously, at work, he couldn’t control that. But there was no fucking way he was going to let this little scene continue here. Hell no. It was time to show that irritating insect his place.

Ananya felt Jude’s presence, a shift in the air, a whiff of his cologne, before she felt his hand on her waist, turning her slightly towards him, into his side.

‘Hey baby.’

He said in an audible sing-song voice. Their eyes met. And in that split second, her eyes urged him to appreciate the situation & be the bigger person but Jude was having none of that. 

His other hand cupped her jaw, and she shut her eyes when Jude tilted her face up & leaned in for a kiss, letting his lips linger for two seconds more than a casual greeting kiss. His hand on her jaw firmly covering the meeting of their lips, shielding her & their moment from that guy’s gaze, somehow managing to make his point yet keeping it private.

Ananya knew fully well what he was doing. But there was nothing she could do. He would never admit his little ploy and would throw something like ‘what I can’t kiss my girlfriend?’ or ‘what’s your excuse now?’

And she had no logical reason. Because the argument to be sensitive to Arjun’s feelings would be a non-starter for Jude. 

Also, even after 10 months together, she still got a little lightheaded when he held her & kissed her like this. Her hand automatically clutched his shirt lightly as he kept her steady with his hold on her waist. She sighed a little when he broke the kiss, still leaning into him, holding on to him, needing a moment to recover while Jude dropped his hand from her face and turned to look at the immobile guy standing in front of them.

Arjun felt bile rise in his throat in real time. He wanted to run, but felt like his feet had been plastered into the ground. 

Jude fucking Bellingham was standing in front of him. Kissing the girl who had stolen his heart so badly that he was still trying to put the pieces back together. 

His favourite player of the season, from his lifelong favourite club, was dating the girl of his dreams. The girl who was simply perfect for him in every which way. But had chosen to go with the guy who already had so much. Way too much, yet he took her too. 

How was it fair? It was like some super-natural forces of the universe aligned to make her pick him. She wasn’t like that, not her. In fact she hated such intrusive attention. The connection had to be that deep for her to be willing to deal with all that came with it, and even go public with him.

The last thought made him sick. But Arjun recovered quickly when Jude turned to look at him.

An awkward staring contest ensued. Neither men breaking it. Jude didn’t want to and Arjun didn’t know how to. 

It just hit Arjun what his current favourite player must have thought of him all these months, & none of those would have been remotely pleasant thoughts. It also soured the Clasico experience for him. Watching it live at the Bernabeu was one of his most treasured memories, but now he understood how they were in the VIP box and who she was with that night when Arjun & others were out partying after the match. It made him look at it in a very different light. That was the night he had lost her. 

Not that he ever had her, or even tried to. For weeks before that night, he had thought of asking her out. His best friend had nudged him multiple times. But Arjun believed that rushing things with her won’t go well. She needed time & space to first get to know him, only after that he could make a move. 

But lo & behold, rules of the game didn’t apply to this privileged golden boy. He came out of nowhere & swept her off her feet. What were the odds? But clearly his luck defied all odds. What a surprise! A cruel joke!

It also wasn’t lost on him where Jude’s hand was firmly planted - below her waist but right above her butt. Like only a boyfriend could. He looked away, he just had to.

Ananya had recovered by then & tugged on Jude’s shirt lightly to break the deafening silence. He complied with a curt nod to Arjun.

‘Jude.’

No handshake, no warm side-hug. A very un-like Jude kinda greeting. 

Arjun almost wanted to scoff. Like he didn’t know who Jude was. Actually, he wished he didn’t know him. Watching him on his screen every match would be painful now. 

‘Arjun.’

He nodded back. Ananya was secretly glad that Arjun didn’t lose his bearing in front of Jude. Most guys would have in this situation, especially when Jude was being kinda brattish. 

The two men couldn’t have been more different. Jude was dressed head to toe in a chic designer ensemble, oozing natural ease & confidence, while Arjun was in a sharp formal shirt & trousers, measured & classy. 

She tried to come up with something smart to say, anything to cut the tension here, but her brain betrayed her at the worst possible moment. So she took an easy way out.

‘Umm let’s get a drink Jude?’

The said man turned towards her, and his gaze softened immediately as he nodded.

She grabbed his arm & started leading him towards the bar, away from the scene.

‘See you tomorrow!’

Ananya bid her goodbye politely to Arjun.

‘Yeah let’s continue where we left off.’

That irked Jude. A lot. He almost wanted to turn around & say something, but Ananya was diligently dragging him away. Well, she was trying. So he swallowed his irritation & played along. A drink won’t hurt at this time.

Thankfully, they found a fairly tipsy Roma at the bar, and her overjoyed mood rubbed off on the rest. Ananya felt the tension in Jude’s posture ease gradually, and his arm wrapped around her shoulders from behind. She leaned back into him, and allowed herself to drown in the merriment around her. Later, Roma dragged the group to the makeshift dance floor as the DJ blared one hit after the other.

After dancing & drinking their hearts out, Roma & Ananya somehow found themselves hugging each other, swaying to the music. Jude & Chris let them be, enjoying their drinks, and were on catching duty in case one of them trips, which looked very likely to them.

‘What a great party!’

‘It really is, isn’t it?’

‘I’m so glad you’re having the best birthday.’

‘Well, I’m with my fav people, so…’

‘Awww.’

‘How’s the ‘I love Ananya’ club going?’

Ananya rolled her eyes loudly & lightly smacked her arm, but Roma just shrugged & laughed.

‘Not too bad I guess.’

‘Has Jude tried to hit him?’

‘NO.’

‘Curse him?’

‘NO.’

‘Has he tried to drag you to the washroom to take you then & there?’

‘Oh god no.’

‘So it’s going pretty good then.’

‘I guess so.’

Jude decided to intervene in that moment, wrapping an arm each around both of them.

‘Heard my name. Missing me much?’

‘Think of the devil…..’

Roma said dramatically.

‘Pls, you love me. And a bit more after today.’

When Ananya enquired what they were referring to, Roma mentioned the signed jersey, and Ananya immediately turned to look at Jude, crossing her arms.

‘There’s one waiting for you at home. Did you really think I’d forget about you?’

She smiled, untangled herself from Roma & went to give Jude a big hug, which he reciprocated immediately. And Roma left the lovebirds alone to attend other guests.

It was that time of the night when the people were high and music had mellowed down to match the vibe. Ananya’s face was buried in his chest, tucked under his chin, as he held her & swayed her lightly to the tune.

‘Are people looking?’

‘Doesn’t matter.’

‘But….’

‘Doesn’t matter babe. And no, not too much actually.’

‘Hmmm.’

Jude slowly caressed her back, which relaxed her & she sighed into his chest, losing herself in the moment again. She could do that, drink freely & not worry about a thing, coz Jude was here now. 

Arjun had tried very hard to keep the happy couple out of his sight, since that puke inducing moment. He even tried to respond to the advances of a hot blonde girl he had never seen before, who was talking like a 7 yr old for some reason, but Arjun tried to focus more on the hotness piece for now. And how she was half falling over him, rubbing his arm repeatedly. 

Despite his best efforts, his eyes flicked at times towards her. What hit him more was not so much the kiss (it was painful, no question) but the deep emotional intimacy & connection she seemed to share with the other guy. 

The way she smiled at him; it was the same smile Arjun had seen many times in the office when she looked at a text on her phone or went to take a quick call in one of the empty conference rooms. 

The way her skin flushed at his suggestive touches, or when he leaned over to whisper something teasing in her ear. (Arjun had to fight to not imagine how flushed she would get in other situations.)

The way she melted into his arms, fully in sync, moving when he moved, sharing an unspoken language with him, talking through their eyes. So fucking palpably in love. 

But she looked happy. At peace. How could he ever be mad at that? How could he ever wish for that to go away? He couldn’t.

Arjun did wonder though what Jude did to deserve such unconditional bond with her. DID HE DESERVE it at all? He was a footballer after all - a young, rich, popular, handsome one whose fame had just skyrocketed. Their history with women was no secret, nor was their lifestyle. Even in the last year, there were multiple articles about him speculating his relationships. Was he cheating on her & manipulating her to believe otherwise? Coz she won’t tolerate cheating, Arjun knew she would walk away. So why then did she choose to stick with him? When it was quite obvious how this would end. One day, he’d hurt her. Bad. And she, of all people, didn’t deserve it. Arjun just wished she sees that soon, before she gets too attached. But it looked like that ship had already sailed.

The blonde girl was making heart eyes at him by now, after blabbering something about wanting to take a drive, and that was his cue to get the fuck out of this party. Away from the sight of them.

Ananya swayed in Jude’s arms for god knows how long. She was relieved at how he had calmed down, and was quite proud of how maturely he had handled the situation after the initial hiccup. But later that night, when they were in the car with Roma & Chris, on their way back from the party, she felt something shift in his mood from the way his hand gripped her thigh, firmly & possessively.

Roma suggested an afterparty at their apartment but Jude intervened decisively to say Ananya & him would head to his place, which was on the way to the girls’ apartment. When they reached, Jude opened the door, extended a hand to help Ananya out & bid goodbye to the other couple. Ananya felt his turmoil from the way he held her hand tightly, and the short walk from their driveway to the main door made her nervous. 

Once inside, when Jude was locking the door & putting the alarm on, Ananya had to think quickly on her feet. When he turned around, she extended her arms towards him, cocking her head to the side, smiling lazily, something she knew he found adorable. Indicating that she wanted to be carried.

Jude looked at her face, then her arms, then back at those pouty lips. His eyes softened & he exhaled sharply, giving in.

When he picked her up, she thought she would be carried upstairs to the comfort of their bed but Jude brought her to the garden, to the edge of the pool.

‘What are we doing here?’

‘Well, you said you had never been thrown in the pool at a pool party.’

But he didn’t throw her in. The pool was only 5 feet & he didn’t wanna risk a bad fall. So he set her down, took off everything he was wearing (barring his briefs) and swiftly slipped inside the pool.

‘Come on in.’

She was wearing a deep blue summer dress, thin straps at the top, fitted till the waist and widely flowing from waist-down till below her knees. 

‘The dress?’

‘Take it off.’

‘We are outside.’

‘It’s dark. Only the porch light is on.’

It was dark. Only moonlight twinkling on the water. Plus the yard had high trees & fences. But it was still outside & it made her nervous. Especially now, when so much attention was on them. She’d be damned if someone saw them half-naked in the pool. 

Jude ducked his head in & emerged back, fully wet, water dripping from his sharp jaw-line & hair.  Eyes only on her. Straight out of a wet obscene dream. Impossible to say no to.

Slowly, she took off the dress, & his hungry gaze landed on her matching deep blue lingerie, escorting her as she stepped inside the pool. He stayed still, letting her come to him.

Ananya wanted to talk about what he was feeling, but Jude had other plans. Wildly different plans.  When she scooted close & cupped his cheeks, staring into his turbulent eyes, Jude caught her wrists, pinning them behind her back firmly, and crashed their lips together in a kiss that made her hot all over in the cool water.

He let her wrists go, moving his hands to her boobs, squeezing them hard, taking off the wretched garment covering the sweet mounds, tearing his mouth away from her lips to suck the hardening nubs. She gasped at the sudden intensity, trying to hold on to his shoulders to anchor herself, but his actions were rapid, not letting her settle.

‘Jude…honey….pls look at me….’

She tried to cup his cheeks again, but Jude lifted her by her waist & placed her on the steps, spreading her legs wide apart. Her panties were ripped off in seconds and she grabbed the railing on the steps when Jude moved his mouth between her lags, lapping at her with a pace that made her want to scream. And she did scream when he ate her out relentlessly, making her wet for more than one reason. 

The intensity of his mouth made her clutch the back of his head, trying to slow him down but Jude grabbed her hips harshly and used the angle to double down, not coming up till he completely shattered her, making her scream his name in agony mixed with ecstasy, forcing her to peak over & over with the force of his will. Only stopping when she fell forward, catching her before she slipped, letting her rest against his torso as she panted into his chest. Sweaty wet bodies squished together.

He let her catch her breath, threading his fingers through her hair absentmindedly, before backing her against the wall of the pool, lifting her by the butt to wrap her legs around his waist, and lowering himself inside her with a few quick, precise strokes.

They were face to face now, her arms around his neck, as he briskly moved inside her, manoeuvring her lower body to constantly hit different angles, making her gasp with almost each stroke. 

Her nails dug into his shoulders as she weakly pressed her lips against his, breathing into his mouth. 

‘I love you.’

She whispered. And he just thrusted harder, sending shockwaves through her body. 

‘Jude….I love you.’

He tensed, following it up with another frenzied thrust.

‘And HE loves you. STILL.’

Ananya shut her eyes, feeling his hurt, while her body thrummed with pleasure. She didn’t want their private moments to be infiltrated by someone else’s thoughts, this should just be about the two of them.

‘Not denying it then?’

She pulled herself apart a bit to look into his stormy eyes - rougher than a tsunami, more intense than the depths of an ocean.

‘You’re….not…letting me…speak..’

He groaned animatedly, only half satisfied with the response, and went back to ravishing her. Usually, when Jude had a task that he set his mind to, he executed it flawlessly. This was no different. His mission to drown his frustration under her breathless moans was playing out to the T. Momentarily, he forgot the pang he felt in his heart when he saw the two of them together. And the realisation that this happened every fucking day. That creature saw her, lurked around her every fucking day. And there was nothing Jude could do about it. 

She came again, screaming his name, her walls squeezing him deliciously, wrangling his high out of him too. Coating her insides fully, not separating till he was convinced she won’t drip.

Jude helped her out of the pool, on to the lounger on the side, and slowly tapped at her soaked form with a towel. She took over a few moments later, and he went to fetch a towel for himself.

When her senses recovered, she wrapped the towel around herself & quickly looked around to find any sign of anyone possibly watching them, but as Jude had meticulously explained so many times, it wasn’t possible. Someone could have heard her though, she was convinced she sounded like a cat that ran under a car.

Her boyfriend was drying himself a few steps away, his back to her. His words were still playing at the back of her mind. She stood up gently, her legs a bit wobbly still, and hugged him from behind, resting her face on his broad back.

He sighed, covering her hand with his.

‘You okay?’

‘More than ok. Coz I’m with you.’

When he didn’t say anything, she walked around him to look at his pretty (& still wet) face, finally cupping his cheeks softly and pulling him down for a lingering kiss. 

‘Take me to bed now?’

‘Yeah.’

She was lifted bridal style again, and she smiled this time, loving the princess treatment. Walking away, she could vaguely see their undergarments just floating in the pool, & made a mental note of fixing that later. She’d absolutely die if the housekeeper finds them like that.

When they passed the kitchen on their way up, Jude asked if she wanted to have something, given she had a fair bit to drink. But she just wanted to hold him & kiss him & tell him how much she loved him. Why it didn’t matter what a third person might feel. This was just about the two of them.

He laid her on the bed, and she pulled him down next to her, curling into his side, placing soft kisses on his chest.

‘My baby.’

She cooed to him, reaching up to caress his face, showering him with affection before broaching the sensitive topic.

Jude’s head was still all over the place. And her soft, inviting body rubbing against his made his blood rush south. Fast & hard. He was nowhere close to being done with her, not tonight.

When Jude pulled her towel off, flipped her to get on top, pinning her hands over her head (all in a few seconds), she squirmed & wriggled underneath him, breaking away from his kiss. That offended him, deeply.

‘What?’

‘Wait…pls wait.’

‘We should talk first.’

‘About what?’

‘You know what.’

‘I don’t want to. Not now. Later.’

He dove in again and she evaded his mouth again. 

‘SERIOUSLY? You’re saying no to me now?’

Jude wasn’t used to that. She had never refused him when he was in such a mood and needed her badly. His mind obviously linked it to an unpleasant reason, & she saw the hurt instantly on his face.

Agitated, he rolled away from her, sitting up on the bed. She sat up too, pulling the sheet around herself, and shifted next to him, speaking softly. 

‘I’m not saying no. Just saying we should talk first.’

‘And I’m saying I don’t wanna talk right now. That counts for nothing?’

‘It’s not good to bottle things between us, baby. It’s not healthy.’

‘I will just fucking end up saying something that would get you mad. Can’t you see that?’

‘I won’t get mad. Wanna hear what’s in your heart.’

She moved to caress his back but he stood up abruptly to pace around the bed.

‘I HATE HIM.’

‘I know.’

‘I HATE that he’s with you every fucking day. Looking at you. Fantasising about you. Fucking son of a…’

‘Jude. I hear you. And I get it. But pls believe me when I say this - I’ve never felt uncomfortable around him. A girl knows, she just knows. He’s not like that.’

He stopped pacing & crossed his arms, staring straight at her.

‘Oh he’s not, yeah?’

‘Yes, he’s not. If I would have felt uncomfortable even once, I would have done something about it. Remember our deal? I said I’d come to you if there ever was anything - but it’s just not true. Not when he was….when he had….feelings. And not now, when he has moved on.’

Jude looked at her like a detective investigating a criminal.

‘How do know he has moved on?’

Ananya took a deep breath to calm herself. Did he think she was keeping tabs or something? 

‘Roma told me he’s been on a few dates. Even with women in our office.’

‘How do you know those are dates & not hook-ups?’

‘How does that even matter?’

Jude scoffed like she asked him something silly, which irked her.

‘Hook-ups are for sex. Doesn’t mean he’s over you.’

She looked at him with irritation, looking for something to beat his logic.

‘He’s not the hookups type. At least….I don’t think so.’

This time, Jude simply laughed in her face.

‘Sure, so he’ll just say no to sex yeah? You’re so cute sometimes. I’ve NEVER met a man like that.’

His tone & presumptuousness was starting to get on her nerves now. What was the poor guy supposed to do? Die? Leave the city? His job? Because Jude didn’t like him? It had been 10 months for crying out loud. The world does not revolve around one person. 

‘Not everyone is like….’

She checked herself at the last second, horrified, but Jude pounced on it.

‘Like what? Like me? That’s it, isn’t it? You think he’s better than me, don’t you? Morally superior, high Indian values and all that? Someone you can take to your parents easily? Where you don’t have to set the ground for MONTHS and even then want to wait for the right time for an in-person meeting, like in our case? SAY IT ANANYA.’

She flinched at his words and the hurt in his voice. Shaken, she rushed to him, throwing her arms around him desperately, whispering sorry into his chest. He didn’t say anything, but his posture eased, deflated. She dragged him to the edge of the bed, making him sit down & then climbed into his lap, kissing all over his face.

‘I’m sorry honey. Didn’t mean it like that. I’m so sorry.’

She kissed his face again, and he loosely wrapped his arms around her.

Ananya cupped his cheeks and made him look into her eyes.

‘Listen to me. No third person can come between us, not anymore. No one can sway us, unless our intent is to cheat. Do you think I want to?’

‘No.’

‘Then that’s it. Whatever he or anyone else might feel is irrelevant. You can hate him & you’re justified, I won’t stop you.’

‘But you don’t hate him.’

‘I don’t have a reason to.’

‘And you have a soft corner for him, you always defend him. Don’t deny that.’

She wasn’t going to insult his intelligence by denying that.

‘Maybe.’

‘Why? What has it always been there?’

‘Initially, coz he was kind, respectful & not chauvinistic. It’s rare in my field, believe me. And then later…..’

She had to pick her words carefully, especially when Jude was watching her like a hawk.

‘Maybe I feel guilty….for hurting him unknowingly. And I am thankful that he respected my choice & never made me uncomfortable. That’s also rare in my field, and for men in general.’

‘What if he’s using that to wait in the wings, waiting for me to fuck this up so he can be the knight in shining armour?’

‘He’ll have to keep waiting then.’

‘Can you promise me that?’

‘Promise you what?’

‘That you’ll never be with him. No matter what.’

She looked at his face curiously, thinking over this strange ask. Unfair ask. The feminist in her was screaming inside that it was wildly inappropriate for him to ask her this. He had no right to. What she did if they didn’t end up together was really none of his business. How could he try to dictate her life like that? 

But the girlfriend in her could see that her man was hurting. The way his eyes were twitching, waiting for her response, the way his hands were fidgeting on her back, the nervous gulps, the way his voice broke when he said that last line - Jude was in pain and if it was in her power to soothe him, she was absolutely going to.

‘Ok.’

This caught him off guard. He was 90% sure this would be one of the things that would make her mad. But he knew he wanted this promise from the moment he saw the two of them together.

‘Happy now?’

He shook his head & rested his forehead against hers.

‘Scared.’

‘Why, my love? You have me, all of me.’

‘Feels like you’ll slip away, no matter how hard I try to keep you mine. If it’s not this asshole, it might be some other prick from this super elite school you are going to, a million miles away.’

‘Your fear is growing, coz your love for me is growing. That’s how love works.’

‘It’s wretched.’

‘Sure is.’

‘Do you feel it too, the fear?’

‘All the time. Like at least a million women would kill to be in my place, I know that.’

‘But no one can be you.’

‘And no one can be you.’

‘Man I love you.’

‘Finally. Kept me waiting all day.’

They moved at the same time for a kiss, sighing into each others’ mouth. 

‘Need one more promise.’

‘What now?’

‘You’ll let me fly you down whenever you can spare any time. None of this ‘I can’t splurge on you’ nonsense anymore. It’s not splurging. I NEED you. I fucking need you with me.’

‘Ok.’

‘Don’t go back on this later.’

‘I won’t.’

‘God I’m gonna miss you. How is it just a month? You’ll be gone, and I won’t get to hold you every night, see this face every morning.’

She was trying very hard to hold herself together but this did her in. Her choked voice came in a whisper.

‘And…you think I won’t miss you too?’

A tear rolled down her cheek, jolting him instantly.

‘Hey, hey….shhhhh.’

‘When I’m the one going away, when I’m the one putting us through this, don’t you think I feel guilty?’

‘Oh baby, no, not this. It’s ok.’

He wiped her tears, patting her back slowly.

‘How is it ok, when I wake up in the middle of the night & stare at your sleeping face, and it makes me NOT WANT TO GO?’

With that, all the pent up emotions of last few months came out, along with the waterworks. Jude held her through it, letting her soak his shoulder with her emotions, cooing softly into her ear.

Minutes later, when she calmed down & clung to his chest, an idea struck him.

‘I have the perfect thing to make you feel better.’

She thought he was talking about sleeping. She couldn’t be more wrong.

He wrestled the sheets off from around her, with her still in his lap, and lifted her by her butt to carry her to the large French window in his bedroom.

‘Let’s make new memories together. You get what I mean by ‘new’ yeah?’

‘I always get what you mean. You’re never subtle.’

‘That’s your department. I just take what I want.’

With that, he flipped her naked body & pressed her front to the window, the cold glass making her shudder.

This was not like the pool. It looked into the street. Ananya could see cars passing by and some people too. There were still lights outside.

‘Jude people can….’

‘Dark inside. Lights outside. They can’t see us. Basic science.’

‘But…’

Before she could finish the sentence, he lifted one of her legs to get the right angle & pressed his tip against her entrance, his other hand coming to her front, sliding down to rub circles on her clit. Shutting her up. For words at least.

For the next half hour, she was pushed & thrusted against the window, her body & laboured breaths painting the glass with marks. As he moved her like he owned her. And maybe he did. And maybe she liked that.

Later that night, Jude woke her up with kisses down her back, starting from that spot right at the back of her neck which immediately made her gooey. Her sleepy eyes, groggy voice & messy hair spread across the pillow turning him on even more. Telling her that since they only had a month left before she leaves, they had to make their time extra efficient. Basic logic. She quipped that it was ‘basic Jude logic’ but shifted readily on her back to invite him in & even helped him to get ‘ready’ quickly. Like he knew she would. Like they were perfectly in sync, as Arjun had so rightly observed.

..................................................................................

There you go. 6.4k words.

I came back after a long time & enjoyed writing this. Hope you like it too. As always, would absolutely love to hear your thoughts.

P.S. - This does not mean I am back. Made an exception for this one coz I was missing Jude Ananya too, but I don't plan to write more. So enjoy this one.

Also, this is an spin-off, not a part of the series. The series still ended at Ch 20. Anything after that are possible future scenarios, but not a part of the series.

[bratzkoo]

Merging Arrangments | wonwoo pt. 1

Author: bratzkoo Pairing: chaebol heir! wonwoo x chaebol heiress!/ nurse! reader Genre: angst, fluff, eventual smut Rating: PG-15 to NC-17 Word count: 4k~ Warnings/note: for my Anna, my beautiful nurse. Happy birthday!

Everything marked with [M] have mature scenes and should not be read by minors.

summary: Jeon Wonwoo's been smitten with you for years, as the two of you enter an arranged marriage, he hopes you'll feel the same.

Arrange marriage! au

taglist (hit me up if you wanna be added): @escoupseu , @yanabaaaaaaarysheva , @spnyin , @sousydive , @gyuguys , @gyubakeries , @tokitosun , @gaslysainz , @armycarat2612

requests are open, but you can just say hi! | masterlist

The Grand Hyatt Seoul stood majestically against the backdrop of Namsan Mountain, its glass facade reflecting the late afternoon sun. Today, the luxurious hotel buzzed with an energy beyond its usual five-star opulence. It was playing host to the wedding of the year—the union of Jeon Group and Kit Medical Group through their heirs, Jeon Wonwoo and Y/N Kit.

In the grand ballroom, staff members scurried about like well-dressed ants, making last-minute adjustments to flower arrangements and place settings. Crystal chandeliers cast a warm glow over tables draped in silk, each centerpiece a small fortune of exotic blooms. The air hummed with anticipation and barely concealed gossip.

"I heard it was arranged just two months ago," a waiter whispered to his colleague as they adjusted the champagne flutes at the head table.

The other waiter nodded knowingly. "Chaebol marriages," he replied with a hint of cynicism. "Always about business, never about love."

"Shh!" hissed a nearby supervisor. "Less talking, more working. The guests will be arriving soon."

Outside, a fleet of black luxury cars began to arrive, disgorging a who's who of Korean high society. Cameras flashed as celebrities, business tycoons, and politicians made their way into the hotel, their designer outfits and dazzling jewelry a clear display of wealth and status.

---

In a luxurious suite upstairs, Y/N Kit sat before a gilded mirror, her reflection a picture of bridal perfection—and internal turmoil. Her raven hair was swept up in an intricate updo, adorned with tiny diamond-encrusted pins that caught the light with every slight movement. The wedding dress, a custom Vera Wang creation, hugged her figure before flowing out in a cascade of delicate lace and silk. Yet, her eyes, usually bright and determined, now held a hint of uncertainty, a stark contrast to the flawless makeup that adorned her face.

"Miss Y/N, you look absolutely stunning," her makeup artist gushed, stepping back to admire her work. "Like a princess from a fairy tale."

Y/N managed a weak smile, the effort evident. "Thank you," she murmured, her gaze fixed on her reflection, as if trying to recognize the woman staring back at her.

As the artist packed up her supplies, Y/N's mind drifted to two months ago, the day that had set this all in motion...

Y/N had just finished a grueling shift at the hospital, her scrubs rumpled and her hair in a messy ponytail. She'd been looking forward to a quiet evening at home, maybe catching up on some medical journals. Instead, she found her parents waiting in the living room, their faces a mix of excitement and stern determination."An arranged marriage?" Y/N had exclaimed, staring at her parents in disbelief. The words felt foreign on her tongue, like something out of a historical drama rather than her real life. "But I barely know Jeon Wonwoo!"

Her father's eyes had been steely, unyielding. "This union will secure the future of both our companies. It's your duty, Y/N. The merger with Jeon Group will allow us to expand our medical services, to help more people."

"But my nursing career—" Y/N had started, her voice trailing off as she saw the dismissive look in her mother's eyes.

"You can do charity work as a chaebol wife," her mother had interjected smoothly, reaching out to pat Y/N's hand. "It's time you left this nurse phase behind. Think of all the good you can do with the resources of both families at your disposal."

Y/N had felt the walls closing in, her carefully laid plans crumbling around her. "Don't I get a say in this?" she had asked, hating how small her voice sounded.

Her father's expression had softened slightly. "Sometimes, Y/N, we must put aside our personal desires for the greater good. This is one of those times."

A knock at the door jolted Y/N back to the present. She blinked rapidly, banishing the memory and the tears that threatened to form. The door opened to reveal her parents, her father resplendent in a bespoke tuxedo, her mother glittering with diamonds that probably cost more than most people's houses.

"Oh, darling," her mother cooed, gliding into the room with practiced grace. "You look perfect. Like a true Kit heiress."

Her father nodded approvingly, his eyes sweeping over Y/N with a businessman's attention to detail. "Remember, Y/N," he said, his voice gentle but firm, "smile for the cameras. This wedding is about more than just you and Wonwoo. It's about the future of both our families, and the thousands of people who rely on our companies."

Y/N felt her chest tighten at his words, the weight of expectation settling on her shoulders like a heavy cloak. She managed a nod, not trusting her voice to remain steady if she spoke.

As her parents left, murmuring about greeting guests, Y/N allowed herself a moment of vulnerability. She closed her eyes, taking a deep breath to center herself. The quiet was short-lived, however, as the door burst open again, admitting her best friends, Alexys and Ela.

"Wow, unnie!" Ela exclaimed, her eyes wide with admiration. "You look like a princess from a manhwa!"

Alexys whistled low, circling Y/N with an exaggerated appraising look. "A very expensive princess. I think your veil costs more than my apartment. Actually, probably more than my entire apartment building."

Despite herself, Y/N felt a laugh bubble up. "Alexys, behave!" she admonished, but there was no heat in her words.

"What?" Alexys grinned, striking a pose that was likely meant to be model-esque but came off more comical. "I'm just saying, if you need someone to carry that train, I volunteer as tribute. I could use a workout, and that dress looks heavy enough to count as weightlifting."

As they laughed, Y/N felt some of her tension ease. These were her people, the ones who knew her as just Y/N, not the Kit heiress or the future Mrs. Jeon. But as quickly as it had come, the moment of levity passed, and doubt crept back in, darkening her expression.

"I don't know if I can do this," Y/N confessed quietly, sinking onto a nearby chaise lounge. "It's all happening so fast. Two months ago, I was focused on my nursing career, on making a difference. And now..."

Ela sat beside her, squeezing her hand supportively. "You're the strongest person I know, Y/N. You'll get through this, and you'll find a way to make a difference, no matter what."

Alexys nodded, her face uncharacteristically serious as she knelt in front of Y/N. "And we'll be right here with you, every step of the way. Although," she added, a mischievous glint returning to her eye, "if you want to make a run for it, I've got a getaway car and a foolproof plan involving two wigs, a llama, and a hot air balloon."

Despite herself, Y/N giggled, the absurd image lightening her mood. "I think I'll pass on the llama plan. But thank you, both of you. I don't know what I'd do without you."

"Probably be a lot more stressed and a lot less entertained," Alexys quipped, standing up and smoothing out her bridesmaid dress. "Now, let's get you married, shall we? I've got a bet going with one of the groomsmen on whether I can catch the bouquet while doing a backflip."

As they prepared to leave the room, Y/N took one last look in the mirror. The woman looking back at her was a bride, yes, but she was also still Y/N. With her friends by her side, maybe she could face whatever came next.

---

In another suite, Jeon Wonwoo adjusted his bowtie for the thousandth time, his normally steady hands betraying his nerves. The sleek lines of his custom-tailored tuxedo accentuated his tall, lean frame, but it was his eyes that drew attention—dark, intelligent, and currently filled with a mix of anticipation and anxiety.

"You'll wear it out if you keep fiddling," Mingyu, his best friend and best man, commented from where he lounged on a nearby chair. Despite his relaxed posture, Mingyu cut an impressive figure in his own tuxedo, his easy smile a stark contrast to Wonwoo's tense expression.

Wonwoo sighed, dropping his hands and turning to face his friend. "I just want everything to be perfect. This day... it means more than anyone realizes."

Mingyu's expression softened, understanding dawning in his eyes. "You've been in love with her for years, haven't you? Y/N, I mean."

Wonwoo's silence was answer enough. His mind drifted to a charity gala five years ago, the first time he had truly seen Y/N Kit...

The ballroom had been crowded, full of Seoul's elite in expensive gowns and tuxedos. Wonwoo, then a university student being groomed to take over Jeon Group, had been making the rounds with his father, shaking hands and making small talk. That's when he had spotted her—Y/N Kit, still in high school, her eyes alight with passion as she spoke to a group of doctors.

"I want to be a nurse," she had been saying, her voice clear and determined. "Not just to follow in my family's footsteps, but to make a real difference. To be there for people when they're at their most vulnerable, to help them heal."

Wonwoo had found himself drawing closer, captivated by her enthusiasm, her compassion, her determination. In a room full of people discussing profit margins and market shares, she had been a breath of fresh air, talking about saving lives and making a difference.

That was the moment Wonwoo had fallen in love, though it had taken him some time to realize it.

"She doesn't know," Wonwoo said quietly, coming back to the present. "About my feelings, I mean. How could she? We've barely interacted outside of formal events."

Mingyu stood, clapping a hand on Wonwoo's shoulder. "Maybe this is your chance to show her, then. You're not just the Jeon heir, Wonwoo. You're a good man, with a lot to offer. Let her see that side of you."

A sharp knock interrupted them, causing both men to straighten instinctively. Wonwoo's parents entered, his father's eyes immediately zeroing in on Wonwoo's slightly askew bowtie.

"Fix that," he said brusquely, his tone leaving no room for argument. "The merger papers will be signed right after the ceremony. Everything must be perfect. The future of Jeon Group depends on this union."

Wonwoo nodded stiffly, adjusting his bowtie with practiced ease. "Yes, father. I understand the importance of today."

His mother, softer but no less focused on appearances, stepped forward to smooth an invisible wrinkle from his lapel. "You look handsome, Wonwoo-ya. Y/N Kit is a lucky girl."

As his parents left, likely to check on some other aspect of the wedding preparations, Mingyu let out a low whistle. "And I thought my parents were intense. Is it always like this?"

Wonwoo managed a weak smile, a hint of his usual dry humor showing through. "Welcome to the chaebol life, Mingyu-ya. All glamour and no pressure, right?"

Mingyu chuckled, shaking his head. "Well, if anyone can handle it, it's you. Just remember, behind all this..." he gestured vaguely at the opulent room and their formal attire, "you're still Wonwoo. The guy who stays up too late reading, who can't function without his morning coffee, and who once tried to adopt every stray cat in the neighborhood."

Wonwoo felt some of his tension ease at Mingyu's words. "Thanks, Mingyu. I don't know what I'd do without you."

"Probably be a lot more stressed and a lot less handsome," Mingyu quipped, echoing Wonwoo's earlier smile. "Now, let's get you married, shall we? I've got a best man speech to deliver, and I promise only minimal embarrassment."

As they prepared to leave the room, Wonwoo took one last look in the mirror. The man looking back at him was the Jeon heir, yes, but he was also still Wonwoo. With his best friend by his side and hope in his heart, maybe he could make this arranged marriage into something real.

---

The wedding ceremony was a blur of camera flashes and murmured vows. The hotel's grand ballroom had been transformed into a floral wonderland, with thousands of white roses and lilies creating an enchanted atmosphere. Soft classical music played as guests took their seats, a mix of Korea's business elite, celebrities, and politicians all eager to witness the union of two powerful families.

A hush fell over the crowd as the wedding march began. All eyes turned to the back of the room, where Y/N appeared, a vision in white. She walked down the aisle with measured steps, her arm linked with her father's. Her eyes were fixed straight ahead, her expression a carefully composed mask of bridal serenity.

In the front row, Alexys gave Y/N a subtle thumbs up, while Ela dabbed at her eyes with a delicate handkerchief. A few rows back, Choi Seung-cheol watched, his hands clenched tightly in his lap, his heart breaking with each step Y/N took towards another man.

At the altar, Wonwoo's breath caught as he saw Y/N. She was breathtakingly beautiful, the embodiment of grace and elegance. But it was the flash of vulnerability in her eyes, visible only for a moment as she took her place beside him, that made his heart ache. He wanted nothing more than to take her hand and tell her everything would be alright, that they could face this new chapter together.

The officiant began the ceremony, his words about love and commitment ringing with a hint of irony given the arranged nature of the marriage. As they exchanged rings, Y/N's hand trembled slightly. Wonwoo gave her fingers a gentle, reassuring squeeze. For a moment, their eyes met, and something passed between them—a flicker of understanding, perhaps even a spark of connection.

"I, Jeon Wonwoo, take you, Y/N Kit, to be my lawfully wedded wife," Wonwoo said, his voice steady and clear, infused with a warmth that surprised even him.

"I, Y/N Kit, take you, Jeon Wonwoo, to be my lawfully wedded husband," Y/N replied, her voice softer but no less resolute.

Then the officiant pronounced them husband and wife, and the moment was gone, swept away in a tide of applause and camera flashes.

---

The reception was a whirlwind of congratulations, speeches, and thinly veiled business discussions. Y/N and Wonwoo moved through it all in a daze, playing their parts perfectly—the blushing bride and the proud groom, the perfect chaebol couple.

During their first dance, Wonwoo leaned in close, the scent of Y/N's perfume filling his senses. "Are you okay?" he murmured, genuine concern in his voice.

Y/N plastered on a smile for the cameras, her eyes scanning the room even as she replied. "I'm fine," she said, her voice barely audible over the swelling music. "This is what's expected of us, isn't it? To play our parts."

Before Wonwoo could respond, to tell her that it didn't have to be just an act, the dance ended and they were once again swept into the crowd of well-wishers and business associates.

As Y/N made her rounds, graciously accepting congratulations and deflecting questions about future heirs with practiced ease, she found herself face to face with Seung-cheol. For a moment, neither spoke, the air between them thick with unspoken words and missed opportunities.

"You look beautiful," Seung-cheol finally said, his voice rough with emotion. He looked dashing in his suit, a far cry from the casual attire she was used to seeing him in at the hospital.

"Seung-cheol, I—" Y/N began, not sure what she wanted to say but feeling the need to say something.

"Congratulations," he cut her off, unable to meet her eyes. "I hope you'll be very happy." The words sounded hollow, a social nicety that did nothing to bridge the chasm that had opened between them.

He walked away before Y/N could respond, leaving her staring after him, a mix of regret and longing on her face. For a moment, she allowed herself to imagine a different world, one where she had followed her heart instead of her duty. But the moment passed, reality reasserting itself in the form of another well-wisher approaching to offer congratulations.

From across the room, Wonwoo watched the interaction between Y/N and Seung-cheol, his heart sinking. The look on Y/N's face as she watched Seung-cheol walk away spoke volumes. Wonwoo turned away, trying to quell the surge of jealousy and disappointment, only to nearly collide with Alexys.

"Whoa there, Mr. Chaebol," she said, steadying herself with a hand on his arm. "No need to sweep me off my feet. Save that for your bride." Her eyes twinkled with mischief, a stark contrast to the formal atmosphere around them.

Wonwoo blinked, taken aback by her casual tone. In his world of rigid formality, Alexys was like a breath of fresh air. "I'm sorry, I—"

Alexys waved him off. "No worries. I'm Alexys, by the way. Y/N's friend and designated baby girl." She leaned in conspiratorially, lowering her voice. "Between you and me, I think this party could use a little livening up. What do you say we spike the punch? I've got a flask of soju in my purse."

Despite himself, Wonwoo found a smile tugging at his lips. "I don't think that would be appropriate," he said, but there was a hint of amusement in his voice.

Alexys sighed dramatically. "You're right, of course. Guess I'll have to settle for embarrassing Y/N with my dance moves instead. Fair warning: I've been practicing my 'Gangnam Style'. It's not pretty, but it's enthusiastic."

As she sashayed away, hips swaying exaggeratedly, Wonwoo felt some of his tension ease. If these were Y/N's friends, maybe there was hope for them yet. Maybe, just maybe, he could find a place in this vibrant, genuine world so different from the one he'd grown up in.

The rest of the reception passed in a blur of faces and formalities. Mingyu gave a heartfelt best man speech, carefully skirting around any mention of his own secret marriage while still managing to both embarrass and honor Wonwoo. 

"I've known Wonwoo since we were kids," Mingyu said, his voice carrying across the hushed ballroom. "And I can say without a doubt that he's the most loyal, caring, and intelligent person I know. Y/N," he turned to address the bride directly, "you're not just gaining a husband today. You're gaining a partner who will stand by you, support your dreams, and probably bore you with random historical facts."

A ripple of laughter went through the crowd, and Wonwoo felt a surge of gratitude for his friend. Beside him, he felt Y/N relax slightly, a small, genuine smile playing on her lips.

As the evening wore on, business associates cornered both sets of parents, eager to discuss the implications of this new alliance. Talks of mergers, stock prices, and market expansions filled the air, a constant reminder of the true nature of this union.

Ela and Mingyu exchanged secret glances across the room, their own hidden marriage a sharp contrast to the spectacle around them. At one point, they managed to steal a moment together near the dessert table.

"How are you holding up?" Ela asked, her voice low.

Mingyu sighed, running a hand through his hair. "It's harder than I thought, watching my best friend go through this. Knowing what we have..." he trailed off, his eyes conveying what he couldn't say aloud.

Ela squeezed his hand briefly. "I know. But we have to trust that they'll find their way, just like we did."

Their moment was interrupted by Alexys, who appeared with a plate piled high with desserts. "Don't mind me," she said, noticing their startled expressions. "Just here for the cake. Carry on with your secret rendezvous."

Ela rolled her eyes fondly. "Very subtle, Alexys."

"Subtlety is overrated," Alexys replied around a mouthful of cake. "Unlike this dessert. Seriously, you two should try this before the chaebol vultures descend and devour everything."

Finally, as the evening wound down, Y/N and Wonwoo found themselves alone for a moment on a balcony overlooking the Seoul skyline. The city stretched out before them, a glittering tapestry of lights and possibilities.

"It's beautiful," Y/N murmured, gazing out at the city lights. For a moment, she allowed herself to drop the perfect bride facade, her shoulders sagging slightly with exhaustion.

Wonwoo looked at her, illuminated by the soft glow of the lanterns. The fatigue evident in the line of her shoulders, the wistfulness in her eyes as she looked out at the city – it all made her seem more real, more human than the porcelain doll she'd appeared as all day. "Yes, it is," he agreed softly, though his eyes never left her face.

Y/N turned to him, and for a moment, the masks slipped away entirely. They were just two people, thrust into an impossible situation, trying to make the best of it. The vulnerability in Y/N's eyes matched the uncertainty Wonwoo felt.

"Wonwoo, I—" Y/N began, her voice hesitant.

"Y/N, dear!" her mother's voice cut through the moment like a knife. "It's time to leave for your honeymoon. The car is waiting."

The spell broken, Y/N and Wonwoo shared a rueful look before making their way back inside. They said their goodbyes, accepted final congratulations, and made their way to the waiting car.

As they settled into the backseat of the luxury vehicle, a heavy silence fell between them. The partition between them and the driver offered a semblance of privacy, but neither seemed to know what to say now that they were truly alone.

From the steps of the hotel, Seung-cheol watched the car pull away, his heart heavy. He'd come to the wedding hoping for... what? A last-minute confession? A dramatic objection? Now, watching the taillights disappear into the Seoul traffic, he felt the finality of the situation settle over him like a weight.

Ela and Mingyu stood together, their hands brushing but not quite holding in deference to the watchful eyes around them. Their own secret weighed on them as they watched their friends drive off into an uncertain future.

Alexys stood with her arm around Ela, for once without a quip. "They'll be okay, right?" she asked, her usual bravado absent.

Ela leaned into her friend's embrace. "I hope so," she said softly. "I really hope so."

The parents watched with satisfaction, already planning their next moves. Mergers to finalize, press releases to craft, the future of their empires to secure.

As the car merged into the Seoul traffic, Y/N and Wonwoo sat side by side, not touching, each lost in their own thoughts. The future stretched out before them, uncertain and daunting. The weight of expectations, of duty, of their own conflicted feelings – it all seemed overwhelming in the quiet of the car.

But as the city lights blurred past the windows, something shifted. Almost imperceptibly, Y/N's hand moved closer to Wonwoo's on the leather seat between them. And after a moment's hesitation, he took it, giving it a gentle squeeze.

They didn't look at each other. They didn't speak. But in that small gesture lay the tiniest seed of hope for Wonwoo – a hope that maybe, just maybe, they could face this uncertain future together. That perhaps, in time, duty could become desire, and an arranged marriage could become something real.

As the car wound its way through the streets of Seoul, taking them towards their honeymoon and the beginning of their life together, that small point of contact between them seemed to hold all the possibility in the world.

[coe-olivier]

I thought lately about these two and their relationship. I want to make a friendship bond between them, because I think they have enough similarities to get along really well! :DD

As y’all may know Martinus has scars all over his torso which he never showing, right? He doesn’t want anyone to see them so he simply won’t need to explain himself what happened [only Acatsius knows the truth about his past job as a gladiator]

Soooo I was thinking that Negativius will be the second person who will see his scars. Negativius will become a camp medic in the future [he already has a bigger medical knowledge than actual camp medic camp has now, but he’s just helping him from time to time, mostly after bigger fights with Gauls].

I imagine one of the battle where Martinus will hurt himself in the shoulder really badly. Maybe dislocated shoulder, which Negativius would need to located in the right place again? I’m not 100% sure yet. But it will be something where Martinus will need to take of his shirt to Negativius help him.

Martinus at first would act like it’s nothing so he can avoids the medical tent as far as it possible, but Negativius knows very well that he need help, so he will observe him for a while. Everything will change in the only of the fighting lesson between Positivius and Martinus. I think the pain in the shoulder would be that bad so after a few swings with a sword he would fall for the knees almost crying. Positivius and Negativius will help him discreetly going to Optio tent so no other legionaries would start talking about that and spreading gossips.

Martinus decided to make some rules before helping, so future medic agreed. He wanted to stay in his private tent, not in the medical tent. He wanted also to make sure that Negativius will not talk about his scars to anyone and not asking for them. As a medic it was understandable for him, medical confidentiality.

I imagine the scene where Negativius will need to located shoulder on the right place again and Martinus biting the piece of cloth so he won’t scream from pain. Negativius is maybe short, but strong so it was nothing hard for him to do it in one strong movement, but the pain was horrible anyway. Martinus will cry for the first time in front of his legionary.

For a few weeks they will spend some time together more often for a medical checks and little rehabilitation for his arm. In that time Martinus trust the young medic way more than before. Before, he only saw him like a little colleague of his great student who doesn’t has much to offer, but apparently he was way wrong. Negativius is someone who anyone can absolutely trust and from now he understand more what Positivius sees in him and why they are so close as friends. Negativius care about Martinus health even when he tried to get rid of him at first place and doesn’t trust him or his medical skills at all.

I also imagine they will talk about more personal stuff and they will find out even more similarities between them that they’ve never thought about before!!

[crookedkryptonitebeliever]

Yandere Coworker

Tw: violence, afab reader, A Lot Of Words

masterlists part 2

This is a pretty slow burn fic, enjoy yall

Minors and ageless blogs DNI please i will block u <3

You only ever talked to him once or twice, barely even remembering his name. You always mistook him as 'Citrus'. But he would correct you and say his name is Cyprus.

He doesn't speak to anyone, always working away at his cubicle. You would have to pass by his seat a few times to hand some reports, it was always barren. Nothing that showcases his personality outside work, no framed pictures, no trinkets, no keychains, and definitely no bowl filled with candies.

Yet, everyone gossips about him. He is undoubtedly attractive, you could see a faint outline of his toned muscles through his white, dress shirt. He wears a pair of titanium, rectangular glasses on the bridge of his nose. Always clean-shaven with a short, smart haircut. His skin has a healthy glow and gorgeous tan to it with barely any blemishes except the scar that cuts through his thick eyebrows and full lips. That adds to his rugged charm.

Everyone thought that his ears were weird, but refrained from talking about it, fearing that HR would pay them a visit for workplace bullying.

Your coworkers tried to buddy up with him before, either for office politics or genuine interest in him for being tall, dark, and handsome. But in the end, they failed and gave up. Because he would only talk to them about work, or not speak at all, just stare at them deadpan before telling them he has something to do.

You knew his good looks earned him your manager's favor. You have been observing him just like everyone in the room, he comes in at 9AM on the dot, and leaves at 5PM on the dot. Once his shift is over, nothing can stop him. No matter how high up there in the office hierarchy, no one can convince him to stay even as little as 5 minutes. It is especially egregious during meetings, despite being obviously nowhere near its conclusion, once the clock hits five, Cyprus would get up, politely yet albeit gruffly excuse himself, and leave the room.

You tried following his example once. You were called into HR the next day for not being a "team player". It isn't only you, even your other colleagues received a scolding for setting such boundaries while Cyprus left the building without having any sass thrown at him. It's either he gets preferential treatment or he does not give a damn if he gets fired from this job.

He disappears during lunch. Absolutely no one can find him, not in the break room, not the bathroom, and not even the parking lot. It was like a sighting of a cryptid when he would occasionally enter the communal kitchen to make himself a cup of black coffee, no sugar nor milk.

Of course, each time people would try to entertain him with small talk. Cyprus would simply reply with one-word answers or nothing at all.

Obviously, he isn't interested in letting his professionalism slip. Why bother trying to gain his approval? Whenever you had the pleasure of being alone in the coffee room with him, you would nod at him as a greeting, and he would do the same. After either one of you finished your business there, no goodbyes would be said.

There was a day when you decided to take the stairs instead of the elevator, it's always occupied and you would have to wait ages. By the time it reaches your floor, it will have already taken up half of your lunch break. Might as well get some exercise in.

You frowned at how dingy it was, but you started your journey downwards.

After reaching the next floor, you were surprised to catch none other than Cyprus sitting on the steps. He turned his head to you, seemingly annoyed at something. He has his phone in one hand and an unlit cigarette in the other one.

You happen to be holding a lighter for your friend. You offered it to him, and Cyprus would gladly accept it. He grumbled out a 'thanks' before handing it back to you. Not liking the smell of cigarette fumes, you gave him an acknowledging look and left him alone.

He gazed at you pensively as you descended the stairs while blowing a puff of smoke from his mouth. The cigarette was held between his index and middle fingers.

It's been three months since you first joined this company. The only thing you knew about Cyprus is that he worked here longer than you, has a cig for lunch, and isn't a pushover. From what you learned from your colleagues, he only worked here for a year before your arrival. Right off the bat, he's already acting like this. Never sucking up to the higher-ups or going above and beyond like other newbies would.

Though, it isn't like he's a horrible worker. Cyprus wasn't the best either. He just does just enough not to get dismissed. He reaches his deadlines, has everything in writing, and would professionally call anyone out for giving him too much to do.

Since the day where you used the stairs, you would always bump into Cyprus without fail. Looks like you found his hiding spot and he is always filling up his lungs with grey poison. But you had no desire to share it with anyone, he probably would prefer to keep his safe haven unoccupied. The only constant daily interaction that the two of you had was a mutual nod.

There was a particular day when you decided to put on a new pair of work shoes. It was also the same day when you had to rush out of the building for an important appointment. You didn't realize how slippery the soles were, it took one misstep and you found yourself tumbling down the stairs.

Luckily though, your collision course was stopped by a pair of strong arms catching you before you could hit the wall.

Cyprus helped you up. But you had no time to waste, you muttered a quick thanks before rushing to flee the scene again.

His sharp eyes must have picked up what the problem is. Well, it didn't take a genius. You were already barely keeping your balance while scrambling to get back onto your two feet. So, Cyprus would apprehend you by the wrist, preventing you from going down.

"Stop rushing, you're going to slip again." He said, his voice was deep enough to feel it vibrating in your bones.

You end up taking off your shoes and assuring him you're going to be fine. He lets you go and you take off running, regardless of his command.

You came back the next day with a bruise on your forehead and another pair of shoes on your feet. Your nosy coworkers flocked around your table to ask what happened. You said your stupid shoes were too slippery, you slipped and hit your head. Leaving out the part where Cyprus helped you out at the stairs.

Just like usual, you took the stairs again during your lunch break.

You expected a nod and nothing else.

"You okay?" He asked. Which surprised you. Switching the focus from the steps to Cyprus, who is standing tall on the platform with a cigarette between his lips.

You muttered yes, and a "thanks for asking". You had somewhere to be, so you moved past him and left him there. Cyprus didn't make a move or say anything else.

The week goes by like usual. Though, Cyprus is oddly "chattier".

"How's your head?" He would ask this on random days. You would always reply with a "fine" and a "thanks for asking", not wanting to waste his precious smoking time, you left him alone almost immediately.

You had a bad day at one point, you got yelled at by five different bosses, someone took credit for your contribution, you weren't invited to lunch and you were told to work overtime. Dragging yourself down the stairs with your head hung down low. You didn't look up to nod at the male leaning against the wall.

He cocked an eyebrow as he saw you sitting on one of the steps with a somber expression.

You asked him if you could have a stick too. Cyprus handed you one without a complaint. He fired his lighter and lit your cigarette between your fingers up.

It was obvious to him that it was your first time smoking. You immediately started hacking wildly as soon as the sharp, unkind fumes hit the back of your throat. This did not calm you down at all, what a scam. You thought it would lift the weight off your shoulders like how it was advertised in movies, it gave you more stress instead.

"Bad day?" He asked, with a new amused expression on his hunky face. You confirmed it, but not giving him any details.

You said that smoking sucks and it didn't help you, looking visibly upset and at the brink of tears. Asking if he could dispose of it for you. He gladly took it from your hands.

You walked away, grumbling incoherently as you tried thinking of other ways to relieve your stress for the day.

Cyprus snuffs his older cigarette out using the heel of his leather shoes. He brought yours to his lips and closed his eyes as he inhaled the newer smoke.

Days turned into weeks, into months. It just repeats every day, you would encounter him at the stairs, and sometimes he would say something more, or nothing at all. The only notable event that happened to both of you, is that you brought back a takeaway that you didn't like and bumped into him at the stairs. You were clear as to why you're giving him a box of food, you personally hated it but you couldn't let it go to waste. None of your 'friends' wanted them either.

Luckily, he is alright with it. He ate something other than his cancer stick that day for lunch. Cyprus thanked you for it and you went back up to your cubicle.

Come Valentine's Day, you're baffled as to who left you a bouquet of roses and a heart-shaped box of chocolates on your desk. It couldn't have been Cyprus, that's for sure. Because you come in earlier than he does.

You looked over to his cubicle to see that it's piled with Valentine's day gifts. But no Cyprus nor his belongings since it's still 8:45AM. You're more likely to catch him dead than acting enthusiastic to come to work.

Scratching your head, your admirer left a cryptic note that said:

"I like you and I want to get to know you more.

Meet me in parking lot 1-A at 5:30pm. I'll take you out for dinner.

-R."

Cyprus definitely doesn't start with an R. You tried thinking about the times where you interacted with coworkers with R as part of their initials. You may be amicable, yes, but you don't think you come off as flirty. It was all an act to not get eaten up by office politics.

God, you hope none of them had the wrong idea. You hope whoever this is, doesn't have a big influence over your boss. You're cooked if you do. Because you are not meeting them at all.

You shoved the gifts under the desk, removing all evidence of it before you attract the attention of your noisy colleagues. You were so distracted clearing your desk that you didn't realize Cyprus walked past your cubicle a bit closer than usual.

You're a bit frazzled over this. Worrying about the consequences of rejecting this mystery person, but fearing that you will be a victim of violence when you meet them at a secluded parking lot.

So you head to the break room to make yourself a drink. The room was empty, everyone was too busy fawning over their own gifts instead.

Except Cyprus, it seems.

He entered a moment later as you're filling up your cup with hot water.

"You got anything?" He asked. You whipped your head to him and saw that he was focused on fixing his own cup of coffee.

"For valentines. I mean." He leaned against the counter as he waited for the coffee machine to drip liquid caffeine into his mug.

You said yes. Roses and chocolates. You are trying to figure out who it is.

He looked taken aback. You don't know if he's surprised that you have admirers, or the fact that you look like you're being hunted.

You excused yourself with a stammer and scurried away, having your mind occupied with anxiety.

You barely paid attention to your work, dreading as the clock ticks by and inching closer and closer to 5:30PM.

When it reaches lunchtime, you climb down the stairs as usual.

"Bad day?" He asked, taking a drag out of his cigarette.

You said no. But before you could leave, he blocked your path.

"What's going on with you?" He asked, with a mild concern written on his face.

You said there is nothing wrong. You have to leave now for a galentines day lunch with your female coworkers. So you squeezed past him.

In the end, you decided not to go to the parking lot. Once you saw Cyprus leave the floor at 5pm sharp, you began packing up. Bringing your roses and chocolates with you.

However, you didn't go to the parking lot. You went straight home instead, wondering if you made the right choice.

The next morning, your coworkers were gathered in a crowd to discuss their new gossip material. You joined in, wanting to appear as a "team player" just like how the HR department wanted you to be.

"Yeah! That's so weird, do you think he was waiting for someone?"

"Must be, why else would Cyprus stay here till ten?"

You asked where they saw Cyprus.

One of them showed you a picture of him leaning against his deep blue sedan. A lit cigarette in his mouth while his hands were in his pockets. The floor was littered with cigarette butts. The photo was taken from a distance, they probably wouldn't want Cyprus to catch them in the act.

You examined the picture for any clues as to where he was located.

Your face pales as soon as you see the sign "1-A". So that was him.

He didn't come in today. Your manager said he had to take an emergency leave, so you're tasked with covering his workload.

You were gnawing on your fingernails. Feeling extremely guilty and afraid, you are not using the stairs anytime soon. You do not want to face the awkwardness.

It was his fault anyways. How the hell would you know there is an R in his name? He had multiple chances to tell you about it yesterday, yet he didn't.

But you're scared. You have no idea what this man is capable of and you value this job too much.

You refrained from going into the break room and the stairs. You would rather waste your time waiting for the elevator than to face Cyprus alone.

Only to find that he started smoking outside.

You stayed at your desk during lunch.

Only to find Cyprus doing the same now.

In the end, you found refuge in the women's bathroom. Camping there for the entire duration of your break.

He is actively trying to talk to you. But you always act like you have a bladder infection when he approaches you, urgently needed to use the toilet now.

You avoided eye contact with him and whenever you have to hand him a stack of papers, you would just drop them on his desk and rush back to your own.

That was embarrassing. Although you weren't the one being rejected, you felt crappy.

Even if he was upfront with his feelings for you, it was unlikely you would have agreed. Cyprus is too enigmatic, who knows what lies under his cool exterior? Plus, you don't like the smell of cigarette smoke.

This is crazy, you're constantly under pressure everyday. From Cyprus's silence on the matter and the fear of having your coworkers finding out about your 'relationship' with him over that one year.

You decided to head to a bar one night to drink your worries away.

It was nearly empty, save for a few patrons scattered around. You swore you saw a lot more people walk in when you got off the bus. Where did they all go?

Someone sat next to you, a stranger. A charming one too, bought you a drink. You smiled as you warily decided to chat with him.

The alcohol certainly helped to ease the jumpiness, you're calm and enjoying the time you're sharing with this man who you never met. He cracked jokes which you would laugh at and you would talk about your office woes to him in a drunken stupor.

The drinks kept coming, you were heavily intoxicated whereas he is completely sober. The man barely drank while you finished around seven glasses. The bartender didn't seem to care that you're too giggly and swaying side to side. Your speech is slurred as you let yourself relax.

The man paid his tab and rose up from the stool. He wrapped his arm around your waist and slung your arm around his shoulders. You told him that you wanted to stay here, but he didn't listen. You asked him multiple times where he was taking you, but the man didn't respond to it.

You're about to be lifted off your seat, until a fist travelling at lightning speed collides with the stranger's jaw. The impact made a sickening crack, followed by the clattering of loose teeth onto the wooden floors.

Some droplets of red got onto your cheeks and your office wear.

You sobered up a bit from the sudden attack, you were left unharmed but you couldn't say the same to your new friend.

A hulking figure was giving him the beatdown of his life, throwing powerful punches after powerful punches. The bar was thrown into chaos at the sudden act of violence, the screams, shouts and hollers were hurting your ears and head.

You threw yourself at his assailant, trying to get whoever is pummeling the man senseless to stop. He's not moving anymore! His blood pooled around his body and the two pairs of feet, including yours.

The bartender tried to break it up, this man was so full of rage, that nothing would stop him from taking out his anger on this stranger.

You cried, sobbing and begging him to stop. But he never listened, only after he was satisfied did he turn around to face you. His knuckles dripping with blood that isn't his, pecs that rose up and down as he breathed heavily. Adrenaline was still coursing through his bloodstreams, that is why his pupils were dilated within his steely grey eyes.

You were harshly tugged away by someone else. You looked behind you and it's the bartender, he brought you to safety as more people joined in the fight.

Maybe they wanted to avenge their friend, or they just wanted to beat him for bragging rights, or they could simply be drunk. Regardless, they were armed with chairs and broken bottles.

Cyprus dodged the first few blows and blocked the next ones. He grabbed an attacker by the arm and painfully twisted it, leaving him to scream and writhe on the ground. He blocked the strike from the wooden chair with an arm and punched another person square in the face, disfiguring their nose.

He delivered a devastating uppercut to one of the more erratic and violent patrons, swiping them off their feet using his leg before kicking them with enough force to push them far away.

One of them had the misfortune of tasting his deadly hook to the side of the face, knocking them out cold. Their limp body hits the floor with a deadening thud.

After that, no one dared to take him on. They're either keeping their distance or unconscious on the floor. He turned around and glowered at the bartender, who shrugged coolly and guided you to him.

Through your tears, you make out that familiar face of your quiet coworker. You were stunned with a million questions running through your head.

His massive hand grabbed you by the face, turning it left to right, examining if you endured any injury from the creep.

You were still under the influence, so you broke down crying and apologizing that you stood him up on Valentine's. You pleaded with him not to hurt you.

Cyprus supported an arm behind your back and under your knees, carrying you close to his chest as he fled the scene before he could get in trouble.

Your legs dangle as he carried you bridal style. The world is spinning and you could barely stay awake. This felt like a nightmare that you would have after pulling an all-nighter to finish a report.

But one thing that you kept your eyes on are his ears. You realized that you remembered seeing it somewhere online:

Seasoned boxers have cauliflower ears like Cyprus's

[annegamesandyarns]

Unexpected Hobbies

König is known to be fearsome, labelled as a human battering ram by his colleagues. Hostages wouldn't even go near him. Whether it's due to his size or the disfiguring scars that he carried, if they saw them at all due to the mask he wore, it was hard to say because no one would specify. But König seems to brush it off every time he's sent in to extract hostages. Just as he seems to be indifferent to the fact the other operatives in KorTac didn't invite him to hang out during off time. To everyone, for all they knew, König's idea of downtime was 'interrogating' prisoners.

I was new at KorTac, not as a mercenary...excuse me...'private security personnel'...pfft, just a fancy name in my opinion. But as a front desk receptionist. With my recent move four months ago, I didn't know very many people. So, I listened to office gossip to get a feel for my coworkers, and quickly noticed a pattern. Almost everyone were friends with each other to some extent, with a few outliers. Though, the one that stood out the most was the one everyone called König.

For the others that preferred to keep to themselves, it made sense. It was just a job to them and nothing more. They clock in, do their work, and clock out without socializing too much with others, and were relatively friendly. But no one interacted with König, unless they absolutely had to.

"Oh, honey. You are barking up the wrong tree. No matter how enticing it might be to climb." Liza chuckled next to me as she sat down. It was early in the morning, and she was bright-eyed and bushy tailed. She caught me staring at him, and not for the first time, either.

I gave her a wry look. "It's not like that," I yawned before taking a drink of my coffee. I glanced at König again before getting back to work.

"Oh? Then tell me, what is it like, hm?" She teased. "You're telling me you don't imagine if...other...things are proportionate to his size? Or what he might be like with all his attention on you?"

I sputtered and choked on my coffee at how suggestive she was being. "Clearly, you do all of that and then some." I gave Liza an incredulous look. I knew she said what was on her mind, but clearly she needed to get new filters with a mind like that. "No, I don't wonder...any of that." I cleaned up the mess with napkins I pulled from my drawer, and threw the coffee soaked tissue at her as she laughed. "Just feels like I know him from somewhere, is all. I'd feel pretty stupid if I went up to him and mistook him for someone else."

"Ok, but how many people do you know that are that tall? Hm?" She asked before answering the phone.

I rolled my eyes. I could see her point. But I only told her that to get her off my back. If you wanted rumors started, you take them to Liza, and it will spread like wildfire. I didn't need any rumors starting here about me. And I certainly didn't want anyone thinking I was starting any.

The rest of the morning had been uneventful, and I took an early lunch. I was standing in line at a restaurant to pick up my order when some masked men came in with guns drawn. "Everyone, get down on the ground! Now! Do as we say, and no one gets hurt!" One of them shouted as they pointed their weapons at the customers.

My eyes went wide as my heart began to race. I ducked behind the counter, pulling out my cellphone when a sound had me freezing mid-text. "All cellphones, jewelry and any other valuables will be given to this," a voice called out and paused for a dramatic effect, as if they had to think about their next words. "Lovely volunteer. Starting with yours."

I fumbled with the bag as I put my phone in it, my hands were shaking from nerves and didn't want to cooperate. My stomach twisted with fear. *Just do as they say, you can throw up later.* I repeated this like a mantra. I focused on keeping my breathing even, and getting through this. Pushing out all other sounds, I did as ordered when they dragged me around. "Sir, get down on the ground, don't make us repeat ourselves!" One of the masked robbers shouted. I looked at who they were yelling at. I stumbled over my feet and immediately started to laugh. It wasn't expected, and I certainly didn't mean to. I quickly tried to stifle my laughter when I felt the barrel get shoved into my ribs. But I was relieved to see König sitting there eating his lunch, unbothered by what was going on. His mask was partially over his nose, revealing some of the scar tissue on his face.

When the man threw König's food to the ground, König stood up slowly and towered over everyone. "You have thirty seconds to let my associate go, and leave." His German accent sounded terrifying with his soft, raspy voice. He slowly tilted his head to either side, and I could hear his vertebrae in his neck and upper back pop and realign as he rolled his shoulders at the same time. This was why people avoided him at work. The man was a walking nightmare. I was glad he was on my side.

I barely remember much of anything, it happened so fast. One minute, I am a potential hostage, and the next König is handing me my phone back. "Th-Thank you..." I felt oddly calm, despite my slight stutter. Maybe I was in shock.

"Go back to work, Kleiner Häse. I will take care of this here. Don't forget to stop by the medic when you get there. I will be checking in to see if you did. It's not a request." I almost thought he was talking to someone else. I nodded as Horangi joined me. With what just happened, I didn't even see that he was there, too.

Horangi drove me back to the KorTac building, and guided me to the floor where the medics worked. Once they made sure I wasn't in shock, I went back to work at the front desk. I barely recall getting through the rest of my workday. Liza tried to talk to me, ask me questions, anything to find out what happened. But I wasn't going to tell her. I didn't need her teasing, or her jokes. I didn't need her running off and making a mountain out of nothing.

Over the next few days, I was nervous and a bit jumpy. Never have I ever been in a situation like that. It didn't help that everyone at work noticed. Something falls, I jump. A loud noise is made, I'm looking to see what it is immediately. To those that knew, I clearly wasn't coping well with the incident at the restaurant.

Friday rolled around, and Liza had been giving my pitying looks all day. I guess she found out what happened. Because, for the first time, she was a bit hesitant before asking me, "Uh... me and some of the others are going out for a drink... do you want to go with us?" Her smile was reluctant to follow her words.

I shook my head. "No, thank you. I'd rather not." My own smile was apologetic. But I had no interest in a pity invite. It only made me angry, but she didn't deserve me lashing out at her for trying to be nice. When she left, I could tell she was grateful that I turned her down. Apparently, it hadn't been her idea to invite me.

As I gathered my things and clocked out, I heard König's unmistakable voice, "Come with me." It wasn't a question, or a suggestion, it was closer to a command. I looked at him like I forgot what a thought or a brain cell was for a moment.

"Do I-"

"Nein. You have your things. Good, let's go." He steered me towards his car out in the parking lot, and opened the passenger door. I gave him a baffled look, but got in and buckled up. Even though, this felt akin to a kidnapping.

I was quiet at first as he got behind the wheel and drove off. "I feel like I should be alarmed right now, no offense intended. Where are we going?" I asked after he pulled onto the highway, my question was met with silence. I glanced over at him after a few minutes and I realized, he's uncomfortable. Studying him for a bit, I could see his discomfort grow in the way his hands tensed on the steering wheel. *Oh, my gods... he's shy... he's shy and out of his comfort zone...* the thought hit me like I just drove a sports car at full speed into a brick wall.

I looked back at the road as he drove. I absorbed this information and contemplated what to say next. Or if I should say anything at all. Before I could say anything, though, he pulled up in front of a brick building in the downtown area. The sign on the window said "Coffee and Colors" with a coffee mug of rainbow colors in it next to the fancy painted lettering. I followed his lead and got out of the car, I silently followed him inside once he grabbed a pack out of his trunk.

My jaw dropped. "You take a watercolor class?" I asked him incredulously. We were in the back of an art supply store. I never would have guessed this giant would do something so...perceived as feminine. But that must be why no one knew about this. "I'm sorry...that was rude of me. I didn't know this place existed." I quickly added when I looked up at him as we took our seats.

"It's not quite a class...more of a group of artists who hang out in the quiet." König said thoughtfully. "Sometimes all we do is focus on art, other times it's like a regular coffee house. Speaking of," he quickly stood up and grabbed a couple of coffees for us before pulling out two sets of everything out of his pack. This was the most relaxed I had ever seen him, despite his nervous fidgeting. "I saw you've been struggling since the attempted robbery...." His voice trailed off as he shrugged at his attempt to explain. "Do you know how to do this? I could show you how, if you like." He sounded almost nervous.

"Thank you, I appreciate this. Much better than a pity bar or club invite." I spoke with an encouraging smile. "Honestly, I prefer quiet activities like this." I watched as he set everything up for us, in an attempt to keep busy. "I don't, but I would like to learn." I could see the relief in his posture, even if he thought he could hide it. I took a drink of my coffee as he showed me what he knew of water colors.

[slowd1ving]

TALES OF A DISGRUNTLED CORVID ⁺ 　 . MOZE

Quite frankly, you've been assigned an absolute loser (unaffectionate) to work with after your dramatic exit from the Intelligentsia Guild. Whoever said this guy was too silent was wrong, as he verily proves himself as the bane of your existence with his ceaseless yapping. art credits to @code_tesseract on x!! and tagging @ilovechuuy4 as requested :3 pairings: moze + male cryptologist reader (will be part of a series methinks) warnings: male reader, mentions of assassination? may be a touch ooc since this is pre-release writing unfortunately, lowkey crack fic, pre relationship, business partnership of hating each other wc: 1.9k

HONKAI STAR RAIL MASTERLIST

MASTERLIST ・゜・NAVIGATION

There’s never a dull day when a certain Shadow Guard is your partner for an assignment. Truly, your life always sparkles brilliantly when the information pings on your Jade Abacus; without fail, everything gains just a bit more colour, a bit more vivaciousness. Pathetically fallacious, you might’ve described it as had you taken literature classes: mood hued with such dynamic chromaticity that you fear you might explode into little prismic rainbows. Always such a bundle of joy to be geminate with him. 

“Must you be so… disorganised?”

Oh, who are you kidding.

It’s always a dull day when you’re paired with Moze.

“Get out.” A particularly rude gesture materialises in your open hand as you stare at the door he practically kicked down. Apartments in this particular sector of the Xianzhou Yaoqing do not come cheap, and you half-wonder whether he’d eke out coin to console your landlord. Then, with an especially sour, lemon-like expression, you realise he would fork out his own money just to make your life more difficult. 

When you first got assigned work in the Yaoqing (read: kicked to the curb by the Intelligentsia Guild to gain real world experience), you really did expect your tenure to be plain office work. Letters, forms, public relations—these mundanities you anticipated. In fact, you would’ve relished such tedium; after decrypting endless scientific formulae and pondering your mysterious tomes, engaging in bureaucratic matters would be a piece of cake! A little treat for your weary eyes—if you closed them, you could still see faint imprints of equations in the theatre of your mind. 

But what you hadn’t factored into your (ahem) calculations was just how sharp the Arbiter-General Feixiao was: just how passionate she was about pursuing Abominations and ruthlessly eliminating them, just how frank and swift the Madam General was. You also forgot that out of all the flagships, the Yaoqing were one of the most militarily driven. A blunder most fatal. 

“Thy talents would be wasted in the mere administrative wing,” Feixiao gesticulated. “Come, child, put thy brain and brawn to use and track down these villainous curs most evil.”

“Goodness, Madam General!” you’d cried out pitifully. “My heart is thine for the keeping!”

Or something like that. Actually, it may have not all been like that. 

After all, you were kicked out (temporarily! temporarily!) partly due to your penchant for delivering heart-rendering performances to your professors to avoid taking on their extra work. Such moving renditions, that they had to let you go lest you broke their bleeding hearts. Had you known you’d be working in the shady corners of intelligence and decryption, you would’ve kowtowed to the Guild for utmost forgiveness. Probably. 

When your path first overlapped with the Shadow Guards’, you honestly couldn’t give two hoots about the rumours that followed silently behind their own noiseless steps. Your ears had perked somewhat at the gossip your colleagues threw back and forth—though, who could blame you. The job was no fun!

Weirdo with the crow feathers, they’d murmured. He’s so quiet. What a reticent chap. 

Of course, you’d disagree, and perhaps tack on a loser to the descriptions of Moze. You’d disagree not with the ‘weirdo’, but rather with the quiet and reticent adjectives—partly because he really does need to shut up more. 

And he needs to stick to his rumours more. If this loner’s made it a point to not work with people, then why oh why did the honourable Madam General decide your ancient science and study complemented his shady skillset? And why oh why does he never refuse her request? (You’ve conveniently forgotten how you always fold when it comes to her.) You’ve always worked alone too, for as long as you can remember; decoding the ancient equations in ruins and solving their gimmicky puzzles using your boundless wits is a job for one. 

As it stands, the people he investigates, the work he takes care of, sometimes intrudes into the realm of questionable rituals and summonings the Abominations and their ilk oft partake in. Thus do you find your career verging into some gruesome form of forensics as you stare down what would commonly be considered a murder scene: sigils and ancient alchemical algebra staring right back at you. He deals with the human aspect of intelligence: the psychology, the crime, the covert espionage. You deal with the technical fallout: the analysis of antique sciences is your specialty, after all. This has culminated in a begrudging partnership where both parties wish nothing more than to leave it. 

A business relationship, of sorts, founded on the mutual dislike (a weak description) of each other. 

“No.” He doesn’t budge from where he leans against the doorframe, but he does have the decency to swing the door closed behind him. Yet, it’s not out of any respect for the hallowed sanctity of your abode, but more because he’s sooo Mysterious and Aloof that none of your neighbours are allowed to view his visage. 

“You are—” a quick glance at your watch proves your point. For someone obsessed with keeping tidy, he sure does have messy time management. “—eighteen minutes too early.”

“And you still aren’t ready,” he counters, pointedly eyeing the loose shirt and comfortable cotton trousers slung over your hips. You yawn, tired already from his yapping. He’s been compared to a crow for as long as you’ve been here—and perhaps far longer—but to you he’s always been more like a little dog. Yap. Yap. Yap. 

This is precisely why I don’t work with others, you can almost taste his words—his thoughts. 

“You are currently the biggest hindrance to my getting ready,” you grimace. Casting a quick glance over his intricate garb, it’s no wonder he feels getting ready is such a lengthy endeavour: all straps and buckles and tough layers that makes him the walking fortress he is. “I’ll be on time.”

He doesn’t reply: laconic only when he acknowledges your point as unequivocally right, which is seldom. 

“Are you going to keep staring?” you snap as you sling the worn shirt from your body. Beneath the soft clothes is muscle hard-won through your frequent collaborations with the Armed Archaeologists in the Guild: days filled with more sparring and their stupid callisthenics than actually finding ruins. 

“Do you have to dress right here?” he counters, but it’s a futile argument—this apartment is barely big enough for you as it stands. Currently, he’s situated by the doorway, but you’re on the unseen boundaries of the living room and the tiny kitchen. Beyond is your bedroom and miniscule bathroom, of which neither have enough space to move comfortably to change. And you certainly aren’t going to sacrifice your comfort to appease his poor eyes; he’s seen worse for sure. Though, you doubt he’s ever seen a naked body that wasn’t in the context of assassination and the anatomy classes you know he’s meticulously attended for his shady work. Surreptitiously, you snicker at the thought: that there aren’t any lovers lined up for this weirdo. 

You toss the garment onto your couch, precisely because you know he’s grinding teeth over it; and there’s that tell-tale click of molar against molar. You even whistle a bit as you untie the neat bow holding your trousers to your hips; the fabric pools on the floor, and you don’t make any move to pick it up. 

There it is. His glower—red-hot and piercing through the flesh and sinew of your back—is heavy in this small space. What you don’t see, however, is how his eyes flicker briefly across your body, down the firm step of your legs as you step out of the trousers. Out of context, watching muscle ripple and twist as you strip forces crimson to seep into his face. This is an implication he’s absolutely disgusted with—with you. 

“If you have any more input as to what I do in my home, you’re welcome to pay my rent first,” you finally deign to reply, rummaging in the dresser in your hallway—which he knows has never been neat with all the clothes spilling from the edges. His eye twitches. 

“You’re an incorrigible man,” he retorts, carmine flush now from irritation rather than anything else. Irritation from the beginning, because it was never anything else. 

“Wow,” you blink, weighing your options between shirt A and shirt B. The cherry-red with straps, or the Prussian blue with straps, you muse, holding the shirts against your beloved grey cargoes. “You sound exactly like my professor. Same adjective and everything.”

When it comes to shameless people, there comes the very real risk of insults being nullified by the insulted through them simply agreeing. 

“No wonder the Guild kicked you out.” As you’re pulling the scarlet fabric over your head, you pause—it seems he’s finally hit a nerve. There’s a rare smile toying with his lips at the victory: one he doesn’t notice, but ghosts across his face nonetheless.

Now, there are many things you could reply to that with. Such as, did your parents give you a reason when they abandoned you? Nay, that is too low of a blow. No wonder you don’t have any friends. But he probably grapples with that bitter reality each morning, gnashing his teeth and beating his chest. 

“Bold of you to speak of being unwanted,” you comment matter-of-factly. Both insults it is then, wrapped neatly into an ambiguous tale of these eight words. His smile fades. 

With a slight gasp, you finally wrangle the tight material on—it’s armour, after all, a specific textile development by the Yaoqing for the protection of civilians and tourists alike, though you aren’t considered a tourist by your special work-abacus-plaque. It fits snugly against you: straps for knives sit tight against your forearms, while the harness that provides extra support for your torso rests neatly beneath your chest. The garb’s almost like a compression shirt from your home planet, except the Yaoqing has far more violent uses for it. 

“Didn’t Guard Zhí reject you?” He bites out, and it takes a minute for you to realise he’s talking about Zhí Hua, the best friend you’d made on the flagship—and your Shadow Guard drinking buddy. 

“Huh?” Dumbfoundedly, you pause in doing the buckles on your trousers, losing far more time than you’d bargained for. “A-hua is my friend.”

The diminutive doesn’t go unnoticed, which rankles him far more than falling prey to the rumour about you and his fellow Guard. No, both rankle him—likely because hearing about a workplace romance about you just disgusts him in general. 

“Pfft,” you snort out, finally done with the laborious task of adjusting the materiel and various other gadgets attached to your body. “I have got to tell her about this. Who knew your ability to gather information would be stopped by a rumour?”

The tightness in his chest lessens somewhat. 

“Besides, everyone already knows my heart belongs to the Madam General,” you sigh, clasping your hands to your chest in a dreamy gesture. It’s an ongoing joke: you professing your deep adoration of Feixiao after she gives you a pay raise for putting up with the so-called ‘reticent’ Moze. “Woah, what’s with the sour look?”

“Gross,” he mutters. 

As you step near the doorway to grab your boots, you lean into his space mockingly: and he recoils back in even more revulsion. 

“Of course, you wouldn’t know.” You pat his shoulder once, condescendingly, then promptly slip your heavy boots off the shelf. “Since there’s no one who loves you.”

And his glare as you shuffle your shoes on is poignant. 

 ₊  ⋆   ☾

[petriwriting]

Talk Talk - Theodore Nott X Reader

We've been talking for months But never in the same room And now I wanna approach ya But we've been keeping this a secret And you're surrounded by friends And I'm just wondering what they know

The dorm was full of the scent of rain, and the rain outside patted on the windows in a rhythmic pattern. The cool air was crisp to the skin, even with the warmth of the castle walls providing some protection. There lay a pair of lovers in the second bed, with the canopy curtains closed around them although they were alone.

It was Y/N's room, little pieces of their personality spread about their bed and dresser. It felt like home for Theodore. Y/N's roommates had all left for some party they raved on about the weeks before. Y/N could still remember their roommate practically begging them to go with them. There was a soft giggling. Y/N and Theo laid face to face on their sides in the twin bed, a blanket pulled loosely over Y/N as per Theo's request. "It's cold," he had said. Y/N did not protest. Both were thankful to have company. "This is so much better than going to some random party." Y/N said. "Absolutely." Theodore agreed. "You know," he began, leaning up on his elbows and looking down at Y/N, and the way the soft glow from the storm outside illuminated their features just right. "I really like our friendship." he states. "especially when we makeout," he chuckles. "Oh yeah?" Y/N coos. "Yes that part is pretty great." he says in a cocky manner.  "I don't know what you're talking about, Nott." Y/N teased. Theo smirked, and leaned forward to kiss them. "So that's the only part of this that you like?" Y/N joked, finally pulling away slightly. "well not the only part." Theo said. "Because I like that part too." Y/N said. "Don't go all soft on me," He said softly, now getting sleepy. "I'm not," Y/N said sternly. "Don't catch feelings or anything," Y/N chuckled, they choked out the words in sarcasm, in a joking manner although they were hypocritical. "Too late." Theo said, just as sarcastic. He dramatically flopped onto his back and closed his eyes, pretending to sleep. A few minutes passed by, and the pair could have easily fallen asleep. It was getting pretty late now. Y/N's roommates would probably be out much later, not that they would mind at all if they came back to a visitor.  After some time, Y/N had fallen fast asleep beside Theo, who watched as their chest was gently rising and falling with each breath. Theo gently cupped their face with his hand and sighed softly. "I think, ....I love you." he whispered, though Y/N was fast asleep.  Initially, the two of them had bumped into each other during class one evening, they each knew each other beforehand somewhat but never really interacted much. And for the remainder of that class they cracked jokes and chatted about nothing. Theo eventually offered to be a tutor, which, although Y/N was smart enough to not need it, they agreed anyway. Since that initial study date, things had been steady. They had an unspoken situation, not friends, not lovers. Not something yet, but not nothing anymore. "It was casual," Theo would say to his friends before he fully realized how he felt. "It's just fun." Y/N would tell their own friends and colleagues to avoid the banter. 

Despite passing notes in class, and giggling in the halls late at night and evenings spent in dorm rooms all this had developed into more for each of them, but there was a key factor missing. Communication. 

A new connection was exciting, and part of its allure was that it was mostly kept secret. Not that friends and loved ones wouldn't support it, just to savor the moment. Being official meant public eyes, and with that rumors would spread, gossip, and chatter. and that was a headache both of them thought wasn't worth it right now. All they had were deep feelings for each other that had developed over the course of several months.

... ... ... ... ... ...

The great hall was much quieter when it was not occupied fully for meal times. Many students found this a great place to relax and complete homework or to socialize. The dull chatter was comforting For Y/N, they had been sitting with a notebook, an open textbook and a quill alone. The perfect opportunity to complete the almost overdue assignment in front of them. However their mind was elsewhere all of a sudden when the great hall's doors opened and a group of rowdy Slytherins came through the door. Draco Malfoy and his clique that consists of Blaize, Pansy, Enzo & Matteo. and Theodore. upon seeing him Y/N stiffened up. They had been flirting in private, holding hands, going on restricted section-library dates. But it hurt that it seemed like he just didn't feel the same. Y/N felt like a desperate fan girl watching him from across the hall but couldn't help it. To Theodore, they didn't seem to exist, and to Y/n Theodore was a cocky bad boy. 

Y/N smiled at Theo when he glanced towards them, but was not met with a smile or a wave or any acknowledgement. Y/N felt embarrassed to say the least. It was an unspoken fling, probably nothing more. Y/N desperately tried to complete the assignment besides the distraction, giving up after about 30 minutes of unproductive doodling and flipping through pages. 

The way Theodore behaved around his friends was rude, why couldn't he at least smile at them? wave? or look in their direction? all you heard was loud conversations, and bursts of laughter that echoed through the hall. Finally, after Matteo had cracked some kind of somewhat unfunny joke, everyone burst into laughter and Y/N had enough of the mindless chatter. They quickly gathered all their things and rushed out of the great hall. Y/N wanted to cry, to scream and disappear all at once. Tears welled up in their eyes and they wiped them away quickly, rushing back to their dorm.  "Y/N!" a voice called out.  It was Theodore, running after them. Y/N stopped, embarrassed to be so upset.  "Are you alright?" he asked gently. "What's wrong?" Y/N sighed, and looked at the boy standing by their side. "I wish you'd just talk to me," Y/N began. "Well I am talking to you." he said definitively. "No, I wish you'd talk to me about us."  Theodore took a slight step back, in confusion he asked, "What about us?" Y/N sighed, shrugging their shoulders and gesturing towards. "I like us.. how we are." he said quietly. "I don't." Y/N admitted. "Everything we do is a secret, I feel like I'm lying to my friends and yours clearly don't even know I exist, come on Theo I'm not dumb. you told me you think you love me and then you act like nothing happened." Y/N plead. So they did hear him. He was slightly embarrassed. Theodore sighed and ran his fingers through his dark curls. "I'm sorry." he said quietly, defeated. "It's not like that to me," he explained. "I don't want to rush into anything because I really like you. And my friends do know about us, I just asked them not to pester you and be obvious about it until I could talk to you and tell you how I really feel." he says. "I didn't mean for it to upset you." he continues. "I've been scared of this feeling, I love you, I know that now. But it wasn't fair for me to say it without at least trying to know if you felt the same."  Y/N stood there looking at Theo, who had just poured his heart out to them. They were utterly speechless. Everything they wanted him to say, he had said. And it wasn't forced. He really felt that way. He loved them. Y/N was partially frozen, unsure of how to proceed. "I don't want to be a secret." they said. "I just don't want you to feel pressured, I don't care about a label, I just want to be with you." Y/N said finally. "and I love you too." Theodore smiled, kissing Y/N right there in the hallway for almost everyone to see. His friends had been eavesdropping anyway and he earned a cheer from Matteo and heard pansy clapping excitedly. It was a slightly embarrassing moment, but it passed into a comfortable fuzzy feeling quickly. Y/N interlocked hands with Theo and they walked back over to his friends to rejoin the group. "Everyone, I'd like you to meet Y/N, my partner."

[am-i-the-asshole-official]

AITA for asking my (36F she/her) girlfriend (32F she/they) to be out at work if she wants to become myanager ?

It's messy and complicated. I love my girlfriend very much and ultimately I think we are in a shitty situation with no real win and we have a different opinions on how to lose.

I am a polyamorous lesbian. I have a wife but I also sometimes have other secondary partners, and my wife does too.

I am happy to work in a place safe enough that I am out at work (about the lesbian part, not the polyamory part). My wife often comes at afterwork events and because she is a sweetheart, is loved by most of my colleagues.

I have been at this job for 4 years, that's how I met this colleague, Angel. This person looked familiar but I couldn't put my finger on it. We talked, grew a bit closer then I met them again outside of work, at a queer event of my city. This time I recognized them. Angel is trans, non binary and fem presenting, at work she is not out and present herself as a cis heterosexual man. We talked, I obviously swore to keep it a secret but knowing this part of her helped us growing even closer together. We have now been dating for 3 years.

Angel has a longtime girlfriend (childhood sweethearts even) as her primary relationship. Let's call her Valentine. Valentine is working in the same industry but not in the same company. Because it's a niche field, everyone knows everyone and we often meet at work events. I also like her very much and we are good friends. Val is terrified to be out as polyamori at work because she is afraid of what the gossip will do to her work reputation. Valentine has a more public facing role than Angel and I and I absolutely respect her desire to protect what she has.

Even if it doesn't look like it, I do like too to keep private and professional life separated… Angel and I mostly connected outside of the workplace at queer events and are also both deeply involved in the drag scene and the queer political scene of our city. We never flirted at work and have even never stole a kiss on workground. We just happened to fall in love anyway even if we recognized the situation was less than ideal.

Our company has been through a lot of changes recently. My teamleader is leaving and Angel(that previously worked in another department) has been asked if she wants the role.

She does.

I have more experience than her even if she has more seniority with the company. I have been pretty open about wanting a senior expert position rather than managerial one and that's why I have not been offered the role. I am really happy for her and think she will be a great manager and recognize it's a great opportunity.

But I don't want her to be My manager. It's a really dangerous position to have over a romantic partner and she recognizes that. Moreover even if we managed to keep our relationship a secret until now, we know it's a precarious position. If our secret would be revealed while she IS my manager it could be terrible for us. She could be accused of taking advantage of me, or me to want to sleep my way through the top. Keep also in mind that she is male presenting at work and I am publicly a lesbian so yeah… We are also in very committed relationship which is another mess… It would not look good for us should we be forcibly out…

That's why I want to go to HR while her candidacy is being studied and explains the whole thing or at least some of them. I don't want to leave my team because my mentor is there and not a lot of people are doing what we do but maybe we could sort something out together? I would agree for Angel to be the team leader if I have a separate manager… Or maybe Angel could be the leader of another team ? Or I could become a more independent team member ? Angel and I are publicly work best friends so it would made sense anyway for me to have a different manager to keep things more fair.

Angel doesn't want to, and Valentine is absolutely against it. Angel thinks it will ruin her chance at the position. Maybe want to sort things out After she has been offered the job, maybe try to work out how we would work at manager/managee for some time before calling HR. I would not be against waiting for a real offer but listening her talk, I am afraid she intends to push things forever. Angel is afraid HR will reveal our secret to everyone. I recognize our HR team is not the best and even gossipy but it's about really private and protected things (in my country) : our sexual orientation and sexual identities. We also have a very good Union (with queer delegates) and even if I am unsure about HR, I am sure the union will remember them the law protecting us here and will ultimately behave appropriately. But I recognized it's a risk.

I want to break things of with Angel if she doesn't want to go to HR. My wife says it's mean and manipulative to use this kind of ultimatum. The way I see it I am just protecting myself. Angel is putting her job before our relationship and I am OK with that, she is also priorizing Valentine's needs (as she should) but in this case, I should be allowed to do the same and protect myself and my job. From my point of view, Angel could : refuse the position, go to HR, or accept the breakup.

AITA for this ultimatum ? Valentine thinks I am. Angel is confused. My wife disapproves but loves me to much to call me an asshole.

[garlicbreadbatstarion]

BG3 Companion Headcanons

🪩🥂🌹Going to a ball🌹🥂🪩

Wyll:

We all know Wyll is definitely the best dancer

And everyone would recognize him and want to chat and don't even get me started on the ladies absolutely swooning over him

But he'd be sure to show you off and focus in on you in such a way that you never doubted that he only has eyes for you

Give him a tune and he will make it happen: he can dance ballroom, waltz, tango, salsa, swing, and more!

It would also be super important to him to learn dances from your culture to show you how invested he is in you🥺

Will always have one last dance with you after you stumble home, just the two of you as he hums in the twilight of the kitchen

Lae'zel:

Would complain about having to dress in impractical clothes the whole time getting ready

Until she sees how stunning you are and, although she still says it is impractical, she would definitely tell you your elevated look is beyond satisfactory

Would probably hop into random conversations she finds interesting and scope out the whole event

Though she'd resist dancing in front of strangers, you'd catch her tapping her foot to the music

And on the walk back you could twirl her around (very briefly) and crack her tough exterior just enough to see her smile but she would deny any such thing if you ever tried to mention it again

Astarion:

Doesn't remember much about actually learning it anymore, but ballroom comes really easily to Astarion and it brings him a lot of joy to feel something his torment could not successfully erase

He also loves that dancing with you is an easy excuse not to talk to the high society crowds that often show up at events like this, and instead you can gossip together the whole night

"my dear we should get one of those for you!" And he'd wiggle his eyebrows and gesture to an over-the-top man in a bright green tailcoat, an 18" powdered wig covered with tiny Baldurian flags and ribbons atop his head. You'd slap his shoulder playfully and try to conceal your laughter

Even when you take a break from dancing, his hand is (respectfully) around your waist to protect and guide you through the crowd

Would 100% get drunk with you and sneak off into a non-party area of the venue to make out

Karlach:

A little too excited bc she lovesss parties of any variety

Does a frantic fashion show while you get ready, panicking about what go wear

She definitely does crazy moves in each outfit to test out it's danceability

Would turn into a dad the way she makes friends literally the whole time; it takes 10 minutes just to get inside because she can't stop chatting with the doorman

She asked Astarion to teach her to dance as soon as she found out you were going to this, that way she can successfully woo you on the dancefloor!

Gale:

He was very nervous to dance because he always skipped his school dances at the academy so he could explore forbidden places while the rest of the school was preoccupied

He definitely confides in Wyll on all this, and our lovely homeboy teaches him then and there how to lead💃

Gale can't stop the bi-panic when Wyll dips him almost down to the floor, with a cheeky wink

But now that you're here he's excited to listen in on the conversations of the many researchers and society members here!

He would get engrossed in conversation and you'd go dance with some friends that were there and it's like a romcom when he turns and sees you twirl across the floor🥲

He completely abandons his colleagues and appears out of nowhere, hand on your waist, waltzing you around

Wyll does a sly lil fist pump "yes, my man!" as he sees Gale spin you from across the floor

Shadowheart:

She lovesss getting ready and helping you get ready as well

Loves the tiny hors d'eouvres and smallglasses of wine and champagne they serve at events of this scale

It unlocks a core memory of her mother reading her fairytales as a girl, and she quickly wipes a small tear before it can fall

The quadrille is her favorite, she loves that it's social and friendly without having to hold a full conversation with a stranger

Would pepper your face with kisses on the way home thanking you for such a lovely time

Halsin:

He's not super used to the formal dance styles of the city, but he's ready to learn as he goes for you!

But he also flirts with the violinist and easily convinces him to play a little jig so he can show off

Also loves the food; I firmly feel Halsin would be a really adventurous eater and he'd be excited to try the variety of new spices and flavors they have at this event

Has 0 clue but the entire venue is ✨obsessed✨ with him