#they mean nothing don’t worry hahaha

[whataboutyouisamascot]

Oh black band shirt, save me

Save me, black band shirt

[5sospenguinqueen]

Princess Party | Lando Norris x Best Friend! Reader

Summary: Lando enjoys participating in all night life has to offer, particularly with his best friend. When Y/N falls pregnant after one drunken night, he panics. After all, why should he trade a club party for a princess party?

Warnings: Swearing. Angst. Baby fever. Loss of friendship. Pregnancy. Lando is not great in this.

Blonde female reader with various faceclaims. Pics found on Pinterest.

Main Masterlist

next.

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YourUserName just posted

liked by mclaren, lnfour and others

YourUserName a podium for my favourite boy 🍾🧡#AustralianGP tagged: landonorris

5,778 comments

YourUserName and another huge well done to my other papaya pookie @ oscarpiastri for p4 🥳

→ oscarpiastri i thought we agreed you’d stop calling me that

→ YourUserName WE agreed to nothing

→ landonorris um i should be your only papaya pookie

→ oscarpiastri disrespected in my home town

georgerussell63 excuse me, why don’t you make posts like this about me

→ YourUserName when was the last time you were on a podium

→ alex_albon hahaha

→ georgerussell63 @ alex_albon hey, i’m closer than you are

→ YourUserName now, now, children, behave

User1 is this his girlfriend?

→ User2 no, just his childhood friend. she comes to most races to support him as she’s been there since his karting days

→ User3 and she’s really close with the the grid, but particularly the 2019 rookies

danielricciardo well done, mate. well deserved

carlossainz55 always nice to share a podium with you

User4 i'm sorry but i can’t believe her and lando are just friends when she takes the most boyfriend-coded pictures of him

mclaren petition to hire y/n as lando’s full time photographer

→ alex_albon no, because i need her to be mine considering she actually managed to make lando look good

liked by YourUserName

→ landonorris oi!

YourUserName posted a new story

landonorris posted a new story

maxverstappen1 posted a new story

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User5 i KNEW they were more than friends

User6 oh so now she realises her ‘feelings’, now that he’s winning trophies

→ User7 bitch she’s been by his side since baby karting days

User8 you wouldn't last an hour in the asylum where they raised me (the asylum being tricked into thinking y/n and lando were nothing more than friends)

User9 not max deleting his story after waking up and realising the consequences of his drunken actions

User10 y/nlando shippers rise! we’ve been waiting YEARS for this day to come

User11 what a gross invasion of privacy from that staff member. i hope they find out who it was and fire them

alex_albon @ LandoNorris awfully cryptic of you

danielricciardo @ LandoNorris how are you still alive

→ LandoNorris ‘cause I’m not old like you

User12 @ LandoNorris mr norris, tell us what you did

→ georgerussell63 more like who

(this comment has been deleted)

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A month later

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User1 looks like she removed everyone she didn’t personally know and made her insta private

User2 lando no longer follows her either

User3 what is going on in the house of commons

User4 maybe they truly weren’t dating but sleeping together screwed up their friendship

User5 looks like the rest of the grid still follow her tho?

→ User6 guys guys. GR63 isn’t following lando anymore either?!

→ User7 at least we know which side he picked in the divorce

→ User8 i'm worried this means lando did something wrong because whilst i love him, i can’t look past him screwing up their friendship just because he was thinking with his dick

User9 good, she wasn’t good enough for him anyway

→ User10 relax, he’s not going to shag you

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YourUserName just posted

liked by zbrownceo, flonorris and others

YourUserName me and you against the world. little bean coming soon tagged: yoursister

1,200 comments

YourUserName i think aunty @ yoursister might be more excited to meet you

francisca.cgomes can’t wait to meet little y/l/n

georgerussell63 me and carmen are so excited. She’s buying baby clothes already

lilymhe i call godmother

→ francisca.cgomes nuh uh

→ alex_albon get in line

→ yoursister we all know i win this battle

→ georgerussell63 whoa whoa whoa, back off, you already get aunt

charles_leclerc so excited for you, y/n/n

carlossainz55 congratulations

danielricciardo heck yeah! i can’t wait to meet the bean

maxverstappen1 do i see a red bull onesie in the baby’s future?

→ charles_leclerc try a ferrari one

→ alex_albon we all know it’ll be williams

→ oscarpiastri racing baby!

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Baby Fever Angst Series

Tag list

@lav3nder-haze @minkyungseokie @callsignwidow @luvrrish @fall-bambi @evans-dejong @sadsierra2 @justdreamersdream @spookystitchery @dark-night-sky-99 @elijahslover @hc-dutch @mxdi0 @buckybarnessweetheart @ironmaiden1313 @dreamercrowd @yourbane @glow-ish @reguluscrystals

[fatkish]

Heyy, i wanted to request a Eresermic im which Aizawa has a biological daughter, but she is being bullied and they noticed when she was already thinking in ending it all.

I understand if this is too dark, i just lived something similar and my parents blamed me, so some confort would be apreciared hahaha

Thankss, i love your writing 🩷

(Oh my gosh, this hits so close to home because this happened to me. My parents grew up in the era where if boys were mean to you it was because they like you. So when I begged them to do something about my bullies, they did nothing. Needless to say, my childlike innocence was the only reason why I’m alive. Although I may be doing better than I was back then, nothing can erase the trauma from the unintentional neglect from my parents. I hope you don’t mind, but I’ll be basing this somewhat off of my own experience and I’ll be putting it in the Pro Heroes x Inner Child Series)

Erasermic x Aizawa’s Bullied Daughter Reader

(TRIGGER WARNING: This story has mentions of bullying, harassment, allusions to suicide and suicidal thoughts, depression and other potentially triggering topics. Please be advised)

Since you basically have two dads, you refer to Hizashi as papa and Shouta as dad

Your quirk was called restraint. Basically if you called someone by their real, full name, you could temporarily restrain them as long as you focused on them

But just like your dad, you also had to be able to see your target

But unlike your classmates, you were a late bloomer. You developed your quirk at age 8, which led to you being bullied by your peers

You knew that your dad’s worked really hard and that their jobs were really stressful at times. So the last thing you wanted was to be another source of stress for them. Which is why you didn’t tell them about the bullying

You were 11 when you just couldn’t take it anymore. You tried to deal with the situation on your own, you tried to fight your bullies who even started making fun of your dad’s being a couple

You tried not to let anyone’s words affect you but after so many years, you started to believe them too. And you began to bully yourself

You would tell yourself that your dad’s already had enough stress on their plates and that you were just a burden on them. You had started to mentally and physically beat yourself up

The bullies had started to use their quirks on you, resulting in bruises which you would hide with makeup that your Aunt Nemuri had gotten you since you started to develop acne

Since your dads would get home late, you had plenty of time to get home and cover up any wounds

One day, you just had enough

You decided that you were better off dead. You decided that you would take your own life after you got home and would leave a note before leaving the house so your dads wouldn’t have to deal with the body

Unknown to you, Aizawa had gotten a call from one of your teachers who was concerned about you. She had seen you fighting and decided to give Aizawa a call since your grades and overall performance had declined significantly

Aizawa had informed Hizashi of the call and they decided to go home early and wait for you. They believed that you were going through puberty and the hormonal changes were effecting your performance and were the cause

Imagine their surprise when you get home, covered in bruises, a busted lip that was still bleeding and a completely dead look in your eyes

Seeing their precious baby in such a state they immediately started to worry and begged you to talk to them

They had prepared your favorite food for dinner and even got you your favorite dessert as a treat. Seeing how sweet they were, you broke down and confessed your pain and your plan

Hizashi was balling his eyes out and wrapped you in his arms while Aizawa had clenched fists with tears in his eyes.

Aizawa made the call to your school demanding a talk with the principal and the parents of your bullies. While Aizawa was setting that up, Hizashi had you sit on the couch while he tended to your wounds, disinfecting them, cleaning them and bandaging them

He told you that he loves you even though you’re not his biological kid, you’re HIS little listener, his favorite kid in the whole world. He then picked you up and smothered you in hugs and kisses

Aizawa came back into the room and brought the food

That night, you guys are on the couch as you snuggled together under a blanket and watch your favorite movie

The next day, Aizawa and Hizashi dropped you off at UA with Nemuri, while they had a talk with your teachers and bullies. They decided that homeschooling would be the best for you right now since they want to make sure you heal mentally, physically and emotionally from this before you go back

They had told Nedzu what happened and he agreed that for the meantime, until you were mentally stable again, the safest bet would be to have you do your homeschooling at UA where you’ll be surrounded by people who can help you and prevent you from doing anything detrimental to yourself

Needless to say, they love you and you are their whole world and you’re the reason why they fight to come home. You’re their motivation and the reason they fight to protect

(I hoped this helps you and that you guys enjoy this)

[alientee]

This is rated 18+ just in case minors don’t interact Maugaxreader

🌋🌋🌋🌋🌋🌋🌋🌋🌋🌋🌋🌋🌋🌋🌋🌋🌋🌋

I’ve had Mauga brain rot since he came out and there not enough fan fiction for me so I’m weighting this because it’s a funny thought I had in my mind I may even make it into a series. Reader is AFAB. Mauga x reader, some fluff, just a lil smut (barley) maybe more in the future enjoy!!!!!

You were relatively new to overwatch, but you were strong. The team knew you had their back, and that’s all that mattered; it also helped you have omnikinesis. But you couldn’t control it that well; you were unstable.

That’s why you reached out to overwatch, to control yourself before you hurt the others around you again. It’s a good thing they found out about you before talon or who knows what could have happened?

Speaking of Talon, you are having a team fight against them now. They tried to destroy another omnic and human peace event. Some of the richest humans and omnics were attending.

So you, Ana, Mei, Winston, and Lifeweaver were on guard duty. And lo and behold, here comes Sigma, Sombra, Reaper, Moria and some other big guy you didn’t know to ruin the party. Everyone began to run around in the grand dining room.

Sombra was hacking communications, so you couldn’t check on your backup. Mei and Ana were dealing with Reaper, and Moria, Winston, and Lifeweaver were dealing with Sombra and Sigma. That left you with the hulking, raging giant with tribal tattoos.

You quickly dodge his machine guns, using everything around you in the room as a shield. You quickly hide, trying to regain yourself; if you lose focus, you lose control.

“HEY HEY HEY WHERE DID YOU GO?!”

You hear smashing and bullets flying, trying to think of a plan in your head.

“EITHER YA COME OUT OR I START SETTING SHIT ON FIRE YOUR CHOICE HAHAHA!”

“Ok your completely insane” You whispered

You snuck around the hulking hot head. You hype yourself up to do a sneak attack that hopefully won’t take down the whole building. You focus on all the skylights and chandlers, bringing them down on top of the hulking man before jumping on his back, ready to detain him.

Until you were encased in darkness.

You find yourself squished by the man who was trying to kill you just moments ago. You were lying on his chest and straddling his waist while he was scrunched up and bent forward. You look up at him, seeing the snarl on his face.

“Ummmmmm hi there” , his eyes narrowed at you.

“What the fuck did you do!”.

You look at him startled and confused. “What do you mean I thought this was you?”

He looks like he’s about to yell at you again untill you both hear somthing.

“(Y/N)! Can you hear me!” It was Ana “YES!”

“Sigma got you two stuck in there!”

The large man shouted right in my ear while his chest rumbled underneath me. “HE DID WHAT!”

“Ah Mauga my friend would you like to hear about my new project. I was trying to trap the other one but you’ll make a great tester as well!” you could hear the collective sighs outside.

“It’s a black cube! One could say it’s a miniature black hole, but not a black hole at all, just a void in cuboid shape. It’s supposed to hold matter and keep it stabilized in place. It’s purpose is to hold things until it fully disappears on its own. Can you hear the melody within the universe? ”

You could feel the man named Mauga stiffen beneath you, you stiffen as well.

“Does that mean we dissapear to!” You scream

“Hmm possibly or maybe it will disappear without you in it the possibilities are endless.”

Your about to speak again when you hear Mauga grunt, you look up seeing him move his head down, that’s when you realize it’s shrinking now.

“It’s shrinking now!”

“Don’t worry (Y/N) given the circumstances we will work together until your both out”

“Don’t die in there Mauga I still have use for you” You shiver hearing Moria speak in such a way it’s gross.

You look up and see Mauga looking annoyed and uncomfortable “I’m sorry”

“Why you didn’t do nothing”

“It’s just that, if it shrinks without disappearing you’ll die. I could probably protect myself if I think of a way but I don’t know how it would affect you I can’t fully control my powers.” All he does is hum in response.

“(Y/N)! Can you use your powers to force the cube open!” Now that’s and idea but before you could even think about it Sigma speaks again.

“If you try to force a black hole to seperate it may disrupt everything around it destroying us all”

but sigma speaks again “But if she uses her powers and makes a black whole within a black hole?”

“Then Mauga dies, it would be such a waist but it may be an easier option” Moria spoke again, you could see Mauga rolling his eyes “Fuck you”

You look back up at Mauga you can still see the cube slightly shrinking again. “Mauga who are you?” He looks at me confused not saying a word. You sigh and speak again.

“If I’m going watch someone die in a cube I at least want to know them.”

You can’t help but stare into his eyes; he looks very handsome. Just something about him being a giant hunk of muscle with a sharp tooth smirk had you enticed.

He looks at you and puts a smirk on telling you the basics: he fought a war, he got two hearts, he lives his life as he pleases, and the rest is history.

You learned he liked video games, he takes pride in being strong and actually works out, letting you know he’s not an experiment with Moria, he’s a hot head but he’s passionate, and you even learned you both own a pair of shark slides.

The cube really did seem to be some type of black hole because you lost track of time and talked for what seemed like hours.

“Since you wanna know me so bad you mind doing me a favor” you nod looking at him

“If I die in here do something for me” You stiffen and look away sadly; you didn’t want to think about him dying in here, especially being responsible for someone’s last wishes.

You may be able to save yourself with your powers, but not at the expense of Mauga's life. You could only hope you would get out before then.

“I need you to tell Bap that I was mad at him for trying to blow me up and for leaving me behind. I was willing to drag his ass back; I missed him. Tell him the next time he grows a conscience, don’t skip out on your friends.” You looked at him confused, but nonetheless agreed.

“Ummm ok I’m not even going to get into that, is that all” He looks away and ponders “Make sure my turtle plush and guns are buried with me to and make my funeral a celebration of me not some sad ass drag of a day”

“Considering we’re technically supposed to be enemy’s I don’t think I’ll be able to plan that who knows what they’d do to your body, but I’ll try my best”

“That’s all I ask”

We stare into each others eyes what seems like forever. Until he leans down more moving his forhead to mine “One more thing?”

You look into his eyes shyly looking away when his gaze got to intense. He looks at me giving me a wink and that damned smirk of his. “What is it?”

“I always said if I died, I’d be on my terms. I wanted go out happy with a gun in each hand and a smile on my face. But right now I think the only thing that could make me happy is if I was taken care of by a beautiful lady?”

You blush looking at him with wide eyes “Are you asking me to have sex with you!?”

“Can’t really do that in this position doll” He’s laughing his ass off, you want to wipe that smirk off his face.

“Then what do you mean?”

He looks down your breast and you blush getting and idea of what he wanted. “If you could let me lay my face in those big tits of yours that’s a way to go” he smirks.

You feel your blush go from your face to your neck. “We don’t even know if your going to die Mauga, they could be done getting us out any minute.”

You listen outside to see if I can hear anything.

“We are not destroying the cube Moria!”

“Why not Mauga can be replaced and that girl can cause the destruction of our universe she’s a liability and a threat”

You could only mumble under your breath. “Your ugly face is a liability and a threat to everyone’s day and stomach”

You hear Mauga chuckle. “Don’t worry I’ll make sure to fuck up all her lab shit if I get out of this”.

You noticed his words if. And you couldn’t deal with that. If he died you’d have been to useless to stop it and in that moment you didn’t want to think about him dying.

You can see the cube shrinking more but Mauga doesn’t make a sound of discomfort, it’s like he doesn’t want to bother you every time the cube gets smaller.

“Hey Mauga”

“What’s up?”

You wrap your arms around his broad shoulders and push his face down into your breast. You don’t know what possessed you, but the thought of giving him his last wishes made you confident in your decision.

Mauga snuggles his head in your chest. You hold him there pushing his head down , not wanting him to see your blushing face making this even more awkward.

As if he can sense your distress Mauga motor boats your chest making you laugh. “Hahaha what the heck Mauga!”

“Just enjoying my new home. I love it here.”

He pushes his face deeper in your breast, inhaling your sent. “Hmmmm I really love it here” You feel him lick your chest.

“Mauga! W-what are you doing”

You pull back to find him looking at you with lust in his eyes and a shit eating smirk.

“You looked nervous I wanted to break the ice. I want you to enjoy this too. Can I?”

You don’t know if it was the way he looked at you, or because this was the first time you’ve felt a man’s touch like this, or maybe it was the fact that you wanted to help him; either way you nodded your head giving him the green light.

He puts his forehead against yours once more. “I need words sweetie, tell me what you want”

You look down refusing to make eye contact “I want you to touch me Mauga”

He slowly moves in and kisses your lips, his lips are surprisingly soft he pulls back biting your bottom lip. He moves his face down back to your breast, kissing and biting them slightly, leaving read marks on your skin. You use the front of your hands to pull down the top of your dress, thanking yourself the dress you had on didn’t require you to wear a bra.

He looks up at you as he slowly licks around your breast, taking a nipple in his mouth. His hands cant reach your chest so he settles on placing them on your ass.

Your eyes roll back in pleasure as he suckles on your nipple, his tongue flicking against it softly. He gropes your ass, squeezing your cheeks roughly. You can’t help but moan softly in his ear.

He releases your nipple with a loud pop giving the same attention to the other while nibbling it.

You can feel something slightly poke at you. You realized Mauga got hard. He felt so big even behind his pants. You slightly raised yourself to sit on top of his dick and begin to grind on his erection.

Hoping to give him and yourself some relief, your panties were soaking wet from the attention. You didn’t want to think about the wet spot you were about to leave on his pants.

“Fuck~, you feel so good sweetheart.”

You were about to respond but the cube starts to shake rapidly. You quickly pull your dress up and hold on to Mauga. All you can think about is his safety wanting to put both of you in a shield that could protect you no matter what.

And it seemed like your powers agreed. Because the next thing you know, you and Mauga are in a giant bubble floating above everyone.

He’s looking at you with wide eyes his frown turning into a giant smirk. “I made you feel so good you broke the cube huh”

Your embarrassment must have faulted your concentration, because you two instantly fell from the sky. You land on top of him in front of everyone making it even more awkward.

Everyone looked down at you two before you quickly got up and walked towards your team while covering yourself, just incase you didn’t put your dress on quite right. Reaper spoke up

“Next time you all die”

Ana spoke before anyone else “Oh shut up Gabriel I’m sick of the death jokes”

As they begin to leave Mauga turns towards you giving you a wink.

“It was fun sweetheart”. And he walks away with the rest of talons members.

Mei spoke up while everyone else looked at me “Did he hurt you (y/n)?”

“No he didn’t, he’s just messing with me”

They all nodded and we all begin to retreat back to headquarters. You could only guess sombra hacked everything before you even tried to get back up because no one showed. You started to wonder if you’d ever see Mauga again.

That thought alone made you blush. Lifeweaver tapped your shoulder. He gave you a smirk showing you he was laughing at you. You look at him confused wondering what was so funny.

“What is it?”

He leaned down and whispered in your ear.

“I hope he wasn’t to rough with you”

You looked at him in horror and confusion how could he even know! You looked down to your chest seeing dark red marks all over your breast.

Dammit Mauga!

[lockburn-castle]

the city of love

synopsis in which dokyeom proposes to yn in Paris pairing nonidol!lee dokyeom x gn!reader genre fluff warnings dk being anxious, a small part about cabarets, terms of endearment/petnames, kisses, reader wears a dress, that's all i can think of (do let me know if theres more) word count 1.9k

playlist cant help falling in love marry you

notes: been loving romcoms for a while and decided to write this story based on what id like my proposal to look like HAHAHA hope yall like it !! p.s. 10 things i hate about you is one of my favourites <3 do give me more ideas for fics in the cmmts or send me an ask !!

As Dokyeom paced around the room, his mind raced with a whirlwind of thoughts. The suitcase in front of him was half-packed, clothes neatly folded, but his thoughts were anything but organized. The idea of proposing to you filled him with both excitement and anxiety. He glanced at the bag of balloons he’d slipped into his luggage, a reminder of the grand plan he had meticulously crafted for a few months now.

“What if they don’t say yes, hyung?” Dokyeom fretted, pacing around their room as he packed for the trip with Y/N. His phone was on speaker, and he were calling the group for some last-minute advice.

“Have you seen the way they look at you?” Seungkwan’s voice came through, trying to sound reassuring. “I’m pretty sure they’ll say yes.”

“If they say no, can I steal them from you?” Dino joked with a laugh. “They make amazing cookies.”

“Not helping,” Dokyeom mumbled, nervously folding another shirt into their suitcase.

Dokyeom's fingers brushed the edge of the velvet ring box, its weight a tangible symbol of his hopes and fears. “I just hope everything goes smoothly. What if all this effort is for nothing? They might leave me.”

“Don’t worry about all of that,” Jeonghan advised gently. “Remember to have fun. Trust the plan. Everything will fall into place if it’s meant to be.”

“And don’t forget to pack the ring,” S.Coups chimed in with a grin that Dokyeom could practically hear.

Dokyeom took a deep breath, nodding even though no one could see him. “Alright, I think I’m all packed. Let’s hope everything goes according to plan.” He muttered the last part.

Everything had gone surprisingly well so far. You and Dokyeom had talked about this trip to Paris for years, but something always got in the way. Now, finally, both of you were able to take a seven-day leave and make it happen. The city felt like something out of a dream — timeless, and full of hidden wonders.

On the first day, after landing in Paris, you both felt the excitement settle in as you headed straight to the Louvre. The enormous layout of the museum took your breath away as you went inside, surrounded by art from all around the world. Walking hand in hand, you wove through the maze of halls, pausing at famous works like the Mona Lisa and Winged Victory of Samothrace.

When you reached the sculpture Psyche Revived by Cupid’s Kiss, you both stood in awe. The way the marble figures intertwined seemed almost too lifelike, as if they were frozen in a moment of affection. You couldn’t help but admire the way the light bounced off the smooth stone, highlighting every detail. Dokyeom’s arm hugged your waist as you both took in the beauty and history surrounding you.

“It’s amazing, isn’t it?” You whispered, eyes fixed on the sculpture.

Dokyeom nodded, a small smile on his lips. “Yeah, but you know what’s even more beautiful?” He turned to look at you, his smile widening.

You rolled your eyes playfully, nudging him gently. “You’re such a cheeseball.”

“I mean it, though,” he chuckled, squeezing your hand. “I still can’t believe we’re here. Together.”

In that moment, surrounded by art and history, everything felt perfectly right.

You spent more time at the Louvre than planned, snapping tons of photos for Instagram and for your own memories.

On the second day, you and Dokyeom decided to explore the Montmartre, starting with the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica. The white domes stood out against the sky, offering an amazing view of Paris below. Inside, the intricate mosaics shimmered in the light, creating a serene atmosphere as you took in the stunning architecture.

After leaving the Basilica, you strolled through the nearby Place du Tertre, a lively square filled with the buzz of street artists and their easels. You and Dokyeom sat down to get your portraits done, soaking in the lively atmosphere. The atmosphere was vibrant, with the sounds of sketching, laughter, and conversations blending together into a perfect Montmartre experience.

After a delicious lunch at a little café, you both headed to the Musée d'Orsay. There, you found yourself captivated by masterpieces from artists like Van Gogh and Monet. Each painting seemed to pull you into its world, and the museum’s elegant interior only enhanced the experience. The two of you wandered through the halls, taking in every detail of the beautiful works of art.

As evening approached, your excitement began to build. You were about to experience the legendary Moulin Rouge, a cabaret show in Paris you’d heard so much about. Dokyeom, always full of surprises, had secretly bought tickets for the famous venue. As you arrived, the bright lights, vibrant costumes, and captivating performances whisked you away to a world of entertainment you had only dreamed of. Checking "watching a cabaret show" off your bucket list felt even more magical than you had imagined.

By the third day, you decided to slow things down, spending the afternoon at the Champ de Mars for a picnic, with the Eiffel Tower looming gracefully above. You both laughed as you watched tourists pose dramatically in front of the landmark, feeling content in your own world together. Later, you took a scenic cruise along the Seine River, the water shimmering in the late afternoon light.

The two of you returned to the hotel room early to prepare for a special dinner at the Eiffel Tower, a night you had anticipated with excitement. You had chosen a stunning white Chanel mini dress, its chic simplicity accentuated by black off-shoulder sleeves that framed your shoulders gracefully. A delicate ribbon, adorned with a Chanel camellia, cinched the waist, adding a touch of timeless elegance. The soft glow of the evening light made the fabric shimmer subtly as you moved.

Dokyeom had chosen a new suit to complement your outfit. His classic black and white suit was impeccably tailored, with a simple yet elegant Chanel brooch pinned to the lapel.

“I had to pick out a new suit to match you, you know,” he said with a playful smile. “And I didn’t want to risk being turned away because of the dress code.”

“I'm glad though. You look handsome as always.”

After taking some photos on the balcony, you headed out to the restaurant. As you were about to leave, Dokyeom asked you to wait outside while he spoke with the concierge.

You were puzzled by the request, but when he returned, he explained that he had arranged for extra towels and soap to be delivered to your room. You didn’t think much of it and continued your way to the dinner venue.

The both of you indulged in a long-awaited culinary experience at Le Jules Verne, a restaurant you had been eager to visit ever since seeing it in Murder Mystery 2. Dining high above Paris with panoramic views of the city, the experience was as unforgettable as you had hoped. The sophisticated atmosphere and exquisite cuisine made it a perfect end to a delightful day — or so you thought.

Back at the hotel, Dokyeom asked you to close your eyes. He gently guided you into the room, covering your eyes with his hands.

“Close your eyes.”

“What are you up to? Don’t do anything silly; this dress is expensive!” you chided, knowing he might do something playful.

“Relax, I’m not doing anything stupid. Are they closed?”

“Yes, kyeom, they are. What’s going on?”

“Keep them closed. I’ll let go now.”

He removed his hands, and you heard him shuffling things around. “Okay, you can open them now.”

You slowly opened your eyes and took in the breathtaking scene before you. Rose petals were delicately scattered from the entrance of the hotel room, leading to a heart-shaped arrangement in the center, where Dokyeom stood, enveloped in a sea of petals. He held a bouquet of roses, their vibrant colors contrasting beautifully with the soft light of the room. Silver balloons floated on the windows, their reflective letters spelling out “Marry Me?” Your heart raced as you took in every detail, feeling a wave of emotion swell within you.

As you stepped further into the room, Dokyeom moved to stand within the heart of petals, his eyes full of love and nervous anticipation. He handed you the bouquet, his hands trembling slightly, then knelt down with a deep breath, pulling out a ring box. Your breath hitched as you saw the ring — its diamond gleamed with a brilliance that seemed to capture all the warmth and love in the room, shimmering with every flicker of light.

“Dokyeom…”

“Y/N, love, these five years with you have been the most incredible of my life. You’ve been my rock through every high and low, my constant when everything else was uncertain. I can’t imagine a future without you, and I want to continue building that future together. I want to create more memories with you, face every challenge side by side, and share every joy. My love for you is beyond words. Will you marry me?”

Tears welled up in your eyes, spilling over as you nodded, your voice choked with emotion. “Yes, of course I will. I love you so much.” You extended your left hand, and with a gentle, reverent touch, he slid the ring onto your finger. The moment felt suspended in time, the diamond’s brilliance reflecting your shared happiness and the promise of a future together.

“Okay, thank God, because my heart was pounding and my knees were killing me,” he joked, making you laugh as you admired the ring.

“I had it custom-made.”

“Really? It’s perfect,” you said, turning your hand to catch the light. The ring’s elegant design and intricate details made it feel even more special. “I love it.”

“Yeah. I thought you’d like it more this way. I had fun designing it and made sure to include all the details you love,” he said, as you admired the diamond sparkling in the moonlight.

“Thank you, Dokyeom. This has been absolutely amazing.” You looked at him and gave him a kiss.

“Let’s take some pictures!” you said, grabbing your camera.

That night, after posting some photos on Instagram, your phone buzzed incessantly with congratulations and likes. But you barely noticed, wrapped up in the comfort of late-night snacks and your favorite movies, nestled beside your new fiancé.

“By the way, how did you pull off that incredible surprise?” you asked, gazing at Dokyeom with curiosity.

“Well, the concierge is a secret weapon,” Dokyeom said with a mischievous grin. “They’re like fairy godparents for tonight. I think they were so charmed by the proposal that they didn’t charge me a thing. They said it was the sweetest thing they’d ever seen — except maybe the time a couple asked them to help with a proposal on a gondola in Venice. ”

You laughed softly, feeling a rush of warmth and affection. “I love you, Dokyeom,” you said, your voice soft as you gazed into his eyes.

“I love you too, Y/N,” he replied. He gently pressed a kiss to your forehead, a gesture that made your heart swell even more.

In that moment, surrounded by the soft glow of the room and the cozy comfort of each other’s presence, everything felt perfect.

You had always thought people exaggerated when they called Paris the city of love. But experiencing it firsthand, you couldn’t agree more.

[dark-frosted-heart]

He Doesn't Know That I Turned into an Animal - Roger Barel (Part 2)

As usual, can’t guarantee 100% accuracy on this. None of my translations are proofread until a day after posting

Kate: Woof! Woof!! (I refuse! Absolutely not!!)

Roger: Hey, stop struggling. Do you hate baths? But we can’t sleep in the same bed if you don’t take one.

--

Despite my desperate attempts to resist, Roger picked me up and carried me away.

Kate: Grrr… (I don’t want to…)

Roger: Come on, stop whining. You can’t run away now so just accept it.

As he tried to calm me down, he poured hot water all over my fur.

He lathered me up with soap and proceeded to wash me gently and carefully.

Kate: Grr…rrrr…(Please…stop…) …

It was a mortifying experience, but Roger's skilled hands felt soothing.

Roger: What, you’ve quieted down now? You’ve realized how good a bath feels, haven’t you?

Kate: Arf… (Yes…)

Roger: Haha, I’m glad you’re liking it. You did a good job. Now I just need to rinse and towel you off.

--

Back in the room, Roger wrapped me up in a fluffy towel and dried me.

Roger: You struggled at first, but then calmed down later. …Good girl, good girl.

Roger patted my head with a gentle smile.

(Ugh… I give in when he washes or pets me…)

It felt so good being pet by Roger’s large hands and I wagged my tail in defeat.

Roger: Alright, Ale’s turn next.

Ale: Woof?! (My next meal?!)

Roger: Hahaha, don’t you hate baths too? Do you think you’re getting food again?

Ale: Arf! Arf! (Food! Food!)

Roger left the room with Ale happily trotting after.

A while later, an exhausted-looking Ale and Roger returned.

Ale: Awoo…(Wahhh, I was tricked…) Arf, arf! (Roger was so mean, torturing me with hot water!)

Roger: Cheer up, Ale. Here’s a treat for putting up with the bath.

Ale: Woof?! (Treat?!)

Apparently Ale only understood Roger’s name, and the word “treat”.

Wagging his short tail, Ale ran around Roger’s feet.

Roger: Hey, you want a treat too?

Roger held a biscuit out to me.

Roger: It’s a baked treat for dogs. There’s not much flavor and no unnecessary ingredients.

I ate the biscuit from Roger’s hand. A mild sweetness spread in my mouth.

Roger: Tastes good?

Kate: Arf! (It’s tasty!)

Roger: Haha. You probably don’t understand a word I’m saying…But it sounds like you answered me just now. Your owner’s probably worried about losing such a cute dog.

(...That reminds me, has Crown noticed that I’m missing?)

(I have a couple of days off from being a fairytale keeper, so they might not have started looking yet…)

(Even if they did look for me, they won’t find me because I look like this…)

Roger: Hey. If we can’t find your owner, then… I’ll take care of you. The work put into taking care of one or two dogs isn’t so different. Plus I’ll be twice as happy.

(Roger…)

(Honestly, if I can never turn back…this doesn’t sound so bad)

With how much Roger cares for dogs, I’d live a happy dog life.

--

(Mmm…?)

I suddenly woke up in the middle of the night.

The only one sleeping beside me was Ale who was snoring away.

(Huh? Where did Roger go?)

(We were sleeping side by side…Did he go out drinking?)

I hopped off the bed and followed Roger’s scent.

I left Crown castle and finally found him.

Kate: Arf! (Roger!)

Roger: …What’re you doing here? Did you follow my scent? Amazing…

(What’s Roger doing sitting out here in the middle of nowhere?)

I sat down next to Roger and observed him.

Roger: …Since there’s nothing in the way, I can hear the town pretty well.

Roger listened carefully for a moment before he stood up with a look of frustration.

Roger: Damn it…I can’t hear anything. Just where the hell did you go,— 

The name he muttered was drowned out by the wind.

(What’s Roger listening for…?)

Roger: Sorry for keeping you out so late. Let’s head back to the castle.

(Roger really is feeling down…)

(...Cheer up soon)

--

When he returned to Crown Castle, Victor was waiting for us in the foyer. 

Victor: How did it go, Roger?

Roger: No good. Couldn’t hear anything. Not a cry for help nor footsteps…Nothing. I don’t even know where they went.

Victor: I see... Then I’ll keep looking too.

Roger and Victor looked so serious and the air was heavy.

(Roger and Victor are looking for someone��)

(From the mood, is it related to a mission?)

Victor: …Oh, is this little one the lost dog you mentioned? Come here, come here~

Victor casually beckoned me over.

(......Huh?)

(Why won’t my legs move…?)

I looked up at Victor again—And for some reason, was filled with an indescribable sense of fear of him.

Kate: Grrrrr…! (Scary…!)

My teeth were bared and a growl escaped my throat. My fur stood on end and I couldn’t stop shaking.

To shake off my fear, I quickly hid behind Roger.

Victor: Oh my…She’s hiding from me.

Roger: What did you do, Victor?

Victor: I didn’t do anything! However, animals have always avoided me…

Roger: Maybe it’s animal instinct. They know when someone’s dangerous.

Victor: Dangerous? I’m happy, lucky, friendly?!

Kate: Awoo…(I’m sorry, Victor)

Victor: Oh, do you feel sorry? You’re a sweet girl. It’s okay. Even if you’re afraid of me, I don’t hate you. Love & peace!

I felt a little relieved that Victor was as kind as ever, even with dogs.

Victor: Even so, you’re quite taken with Roger, aren’t you?

Roger: I’m used to handling dogs. But… Sorry. I’m gonna have to put off looking for your owner for a while tomorrow.

(I don’t have an owner so I don’t mind at all, but…what happened all of a sudden?)

When I tilted my head in confusion, Roger continued.

Roger: …There’s something else I need to do.

--

The next day, after I spent one night as a dog, Roger had been rushing around making preparations since early morning.

Ale: Arf?! Arf! (Do you wanna play?! Roger!)

Roger: Sorry, Ale. You’re staying home today… You too.

Roger patted our heads and turned to leave.

(He’s going out to do the thing he “needs to do” that he mentioned yesterday)

He’s likely going to “hunt someone down”.

Last night, Roger was listening for a voice or footsteps in town.

(I want to help in some way too…!)

Kate: Arf arf! (Please take me with you!)

Roger: What’s up? Why’d you bark all of a sudden… Are you…feeling lonely? You’re so spoiled.

Ale: Arf arf arf!! (I wanna come along too, Roger!)

Roger: Ale too…Guess I got no choice. It’s not like you’ll get in the way so I’ll take you both along.

(Yay! I get to go with Roger…!)

(Now if only I knew who he was looking for…)

Roger: …Now that I think about it, you followed my scent last night, didn’t you?

Kate: Arf! (I did!)

Roger: Can you follow this scent too?

[dem-obscure-imagines]

The Way it Was Before

Bernard the Elf x Reader

Fandom: The Santa Clause

Summary: Something is VERY wrong this Christmas, and it seems you’re the only person in the world who remembers the way things were before. Well, almost the only person. It’s up to you and the Head Elf to save the day before Jack’s wish becomes irreversible.

Note: I was literally possessed by the spirit of Christmas to write this. I still don’t understand how I whipped this up so fast. Also I have a few ideas kicking around for a sequel, so let me know if that’s something you’re interested in! Additionally, I will be uploading this to Ao3, so if you see it on there too, don't worry hahaha

Warnings: Language, a lil violence as a treat (nothing major just literally a few punches lol), a lil angst but a very happy ending <3

Word Count: 14k

Reader is: Female, 23

Well, that was it, then. It was over. You couldn’t help but feel a little torn up about it. You just weren’t cut out for the job, or maybe you didn’t have the magic for it. Whatever the reason, Mother Nature had made it clear. You were not the Spring Enchantress, and this would be your last foray into the Magical Realm for a very long time, if you ever set foot in it again.

Mother Nature had to visit Santa at the North Pole. You weren’t sure why, she didn’t tell you what she was there to pick up, but she did give you some time on your own to explore the Workshop for the last time.

Wanting to get away from the wandering eyes, you found a secluded nook and sat down, resting your head in your hands. You loved the Pole. It was so intricate and beautiful and whimsical and you would never see it again. You’d never step foot in Mother Nature’s Grotto or the Summer Isles, or even Halloweentown.

It hit you all at once and the tears came flowing before you could stop them. You just hoped none of the elves were around to find you. You didn’t want to worry them when they were already so busy.

“(Y/N), right?” a voice asked, drawing your attention to the doorway where he was standing. Bernard, the Head Elf. Your eyes wandered over his shoulder to the sign on the door. Of course, your crying spot had to be directly outside his office. Figured.

“Right. Yeah. Sorry.” You wiped at the tears, trying to compose yourself. You motioned to the door. “I didn’t realize…”

He shook his head. “That’s alright. Is something wrong?”

“I didn’t mean to bother you. I’m sorry, I can—”

“No, you’re no bother at all. Come on in. My couch is a lot comfier than that bench there.” He motioned you forward and you hesitated, but got up and walked into his office, a large, cozy room with forest green walls, hardwood floors, a small fireplace, a cozy couch, and a desk facing it. There was a shelf of snow globes on one wall, a shelf of old leather books on another.

Bernard motioned to the couch and you took a seat while he perched himself on the edge of his desk. He plucked a tissue out of the box and handed it to you, empathy etched in his brown eyes.

“What’s going on?”

“It um…Mother Nature…” You spoke slowly, composing your words. “She said I’m not the Spring Enchantress like she thought. So um…I’m getting my memory wiped and heading back to the Mortal Realm. Tomorrow, I think.”

“Wiped? Like entirely?” Bernard said, horror in his voice.

“I mean, I’ll still know who I was before I started training under her, but…all of the magic stuff, all of this…” You shook your head. “I knew it was all too good to be true.”

“I am so sorry this is happening to you.” He shook his head. “It’s not fair.”

“Yeah…” You nodded, wiping your tears on the tissue he’d given you. “I’m just glad she brought me here one last time. It’s so beautiful here.”

Bernard smiled softly. He reached into his satchel and pulled out a small snow globe, waving a hand over it before handing it to you. “Even if you won’t remember this place…I’d like you to take a piece of it with you.”

You took a shaking breath, more tears flowing at his words, at the sincerity on his face, at the beautiful snow globe he’d given you. You stood to accept it and found yourself hugging him instead, seeking comfort from the most powerful elf in the Pole. His arms wrapped tight around you, comforting you at your most vulnerable.

“Thank you. So much. Even if I don’t remember it, I…I think I’ll still know. That it’s real. That all of this is.”

“Believing is Seeing.” Bernard said, meeting your eyes. “Someday, you’ll remember that.”

You hoped he was right…

THREE YEARS LATER

Leaving your Irish Folklore class, you were absolutely buzzing with ideas. It had been an amazing lesson. Your professor was very knowledgeable on all sorts of legends and fantasy creatures, where they’d come from, how stories about them had started. You, as a writer, were planning on using this knowledge to write an epic fantasy romance. You weren’t sure what exactly it would be about; you were still waiting for it to click, but you were sure it would eventually.

You walked to your favorite coffee shop, a little ways from your apartment, and grabbed a hot cocoa with extra whipped cream, your favorite around this time of year, sitting down with your work at your favorite table in the corner of the shop.

You took out your notebooks, comparing the notes you’d taken in class to the ones you had left over from…before. The inklings, few though they were, that had lingered in your mind, even after Mother Nature, yes, that Mother Nature, had supposedly wiped them all from existence. Granted, there wasn’t very much left from your time with her, just a few things: the Northern Lights dancing across the sky as you…as you…no, see, there it was. Nothing.

That was all that was left, pieces. And the snow globe on your shelf that you knew was more than just a snow globe, but you couldn’t remember why. Or who’d given it to you.

Sometimes you felt crazy, pushing against the walls of your memory, begging it for just one more detail, but that was how it had been for the last three years. You knew you weren’t making it up, that it was more than just fantasy, but you couldn’t tell anyone. Not even your therapist. The looks wouldn’t be worth it.

So you kept these things to yourself, jotting them down to get them out of your head. Or, rather, keeping them safe in case someday Mother Nature came to finish what she started, wiping it all away for good.

You worked on an outline for a short story for your creative writing class, but you didn’t feel all that confident in it. You sipped your cocoa some more, which had cooled to perfection, and opened an article you were supposed to read for your Folklore class. Something about elves. Festive, you thought with a chuckle. It was indeed the season for that, especially since that had been your last class before Christmas. A perfect send-off for the end of the semester.

Once you’d gotten a decent amount of work done, you packed up your stuff and headed back to your apartment, setting your bag in your room. You checked a few things off of your To Do List.

Gleaming on the shelf, your snow globe caught your eye. “Believing is Seeing.” You whispered to yourself, eyebrows knitting together when you did. It sounded familiar, but…you weren’t sure why. Or what it meant.

Down in the living room, your roommates were watching Christmas movies. In a few days, they’d both be headed home for the holidays and you’d be left on your own for a few weeks. You didn’t mind all that much. You did well on your own, in the quiet. You were kind of sad about spending the holidays alone, though.

Maybe you could find a community event to attend. A holiday party or something. Maybe your college would be doing something for the students who were staying. You hoped they’d let you attend even though you were a grad student.

On the TV, a cheesy Hallmark movie played out, the city girl deciding the small town she’d stumbled into was actually the perfect place for her and the handsome lumberjack that worked at the Christmas Tree Farm at the edge of town was actually her soulmate. You chuckled. You didn’t believe in soulmates. Not like that, at least.

“Hey, we’re going to a party tonight. Down at the Kappa House. You want to come?” Your roommate, Cindy, asked.

“Oh! Thank you. I’m alright, though. I’ll order some takeout or something.”

“Alright.” Megan, your other roommate, nodded. “How was your class?”

“Good! Yeah, I’ve just gotta finish this essay and then I’ll be good for the semester.”

“That’s good.” She grinned, sitting cross-legged on the couch.

You sat with the two of them until they got ready to leave, dressed in short red dresses, fishnets, and Santa hats. “Call me if you need a DD.”

“Oh we will.” They giggled, stumbling out the door, each armed with a bottle of cheap wine, leaving you on your own in the apartment. You did as you’d said and ordered some takeout, cranking out the rest of your paper and turning on some Christmas movies. Elf, Home Alone, all of the classics were on.

You felt something in the back of your mind, a little tingle. You froze, staring at the screen. You expected another little piece, a sliver, anything, but the feeling faded as quickly as it came. You sighed, setting your container of Lo Mein on the coffee table. Suddenly, you were tired. Maybe some sleep would help. So, after putting your things away and cleaning up after yourself, you changed into your pajamas and headed to bed.

You stared at the ceiling for a while, trying desperately to jog your memory for the little inkling that was about to emerge earlier, but to no avail. You shook your head and turned onto your side.

Believing is Seeing…

***

The next morning, you felt groggy and decidedly weird. You jotted down the dreams you remembered in your journal and went downstairs to get some breakfast to appease your growling stomach. You poured yourself a bowl of cereal with milk and plopped down in front of the TV, all but dropping it in your lap when you saw what was on the screen.

“Come on up to the North Pole, folks! Christmas Wonderland right at your fingertips! This year, we’re opening our Winter Wonderland Water Park, Hotel, and Resort! Pet the reindeer! Take a photo with an elf! And don’t forget to meet Santa!”

“What the Fuck.”

“Oh! See! I told you! We should go! They have a two for one on the Mistletoe Cruise!” Cindy grinned, hopping over the back of the couch. “Rewind it!”

You did as she said, pausing when the prices were on the screen. It just so happened to be when this so-called Santa was also on screen. Taking one look at him, you could tell something was wrong. His height, his voice, but most of all, his hair, which was frosted and spiked up. He may have been wearing the suit, but that was no Santa.

Chills ran up your arm at the sight of him. No, that was no Santa. That was Jack Frost.

It was coming back to you a little now.

“What…the North Pole…?” You murmured, confused.

“Obviously. What, did your parents never take you as a kid?” Megan asked. “We went all the time when I was growing up.”

“I can’t say they did, no…” You shook your head. No, this was bad. Something was very wrong here. Your stomach sank, veins on fire and chills unending.

You got changed at the speed of light and headed out to town, stopping in the book store next to your favorite coffee shop, where on the front rack was this new Santa’s memoir. It was titled, “Becoming Santa” and you doubted anything in it was anywhere near the truth.

You scooped up a copy of it as well as a book on the history of the Pole. There had to be something in there, some hint, some…someone you could contact. You checked out at the counter and headed next door to the coffee shop, spreading out your books and notes. You grabbed a cocoa with extra whipped cream and a shot of espresso. You knew you’d need the caffeine for whatever lied ahead.

You combed the books extensively, rolling your eyes every paragraph as you waded through Jack’s stuffy memoir. It was…impossible. You couldn’t believe this had all happened overnight. Unless there was magic involved. You cracked open the history of the Pole book, which had pictures, thankfully. You were able to look through and see if there was anyone you recognized. The longer you stared at the pictures, the more it confirmed your suspicions. You had been to the Pole before, but not in the capacity your roommates were discussing. It hadn’t been a theme park, a tacky tourist destination loaded to the brim with money-grabs. No, you had been there when it was a gorgeous, beautiful workshop, full of joy and love and…for lack of better word, Christmas cheer.

A single tear slipped down your cheek and you sat back in your chair, taking it all in. You remembered. Most of it, anyway. There were still bits and pieces that wouldn’t click into place just yet.

“This seat taken?” Someone asked.

You looked up, staring for a long moment as his features came into focus, his kind brown eyes, dark curls, a pointed ear sticking out from under his hat. He was the exact same as the last day you’d seen him, right down to the red tunic embroidered in golden symbols, the tassel necklace around his neck.

You gasped softly. “Bernard?”

Click.

His face split into a grin and a wave of relief swept over him as he all but collapsed into the seat across from you. “Thank the stars. I didn’t think you’d remember me.”

“How could I forget?” You asked, mostly to yourself. You had forgotten him. Well, until now. But it was all coming together. Something about seeing him made everything else, all those loose, scattered pieces, finally come together.

“So far, you’re the only one who remembers.”

“Remembers you?”

“No, remembers…the way things were yesterday.” He lowered his voice and you nodded, eyes wide.

“Okay cool, I’m not crazy. Always nice to know.” You sighed, closing the book and sliding it over to him. “I’ve been looking for…I don’t even know what, to be honest, but I knew it wasn’t right.”

“That’s…yeah.” He nodded, flipping through the book before closing it again.

“So what’s going on?”

“No idea. I was on my way out of the Pole when it hit, which is probably why I was spared. All of the elves…” He shook his head, arms crossed. “I don’t have any magic. I didn’t know where else to go.”

“Why me?” You asked softly, voice breaking at the edges. “How did you find me?”

“I’ve been keeping an eye on you since everything happened. I’m really sorry. What happened to you isn’t fair and I understand if you want to stay out of it, but I need your help. You’re the only person I have left.”

“I was on your team the second you sat down.” You told him, earning a tired smile. “So I did find…something. Um…Santa. Our Santa, I mean. When did he…?”

“He put on the coat in 1994.” Bernard replied with certainty.

“Okay that’s not good.” You opened Jack’s memoir to his origin story, in which he claimed to have become aware of his Santa Powers in the same year on the same night. “That never happened. Jack…he must have gone back in time and overwritten things.”

“How would he even have done something like that?” Bernard asked, taking the book from you and reading through the section you’d underlined.

“Father Time,” you mumbled. “Maybe he did something to Father Time.”

“Maybe.” Bernard nodded. “He’s in London. Big Ben. We can head there. But first, we need to find our Santa and pray that he remembers too. If not, our goose may already be cooked.”

***

Bernard ordered a drink for himself and the two of you left the shop, sticking a nice tip in the jar on the way out. You led Bernard to your apartment. Your roommates were still there, buzzing about their impending trip to the North Pole.

“I thought you guys were going home to see your families for the holidays.” You said, prying to see just how much they had changed in this new reality.

“Oh right, right, we were, but this deal is just too good to pass up, you know? My parents will understand. We’ll just celebrate…over spring break or something.”

“Yeah, yeah same. It’ll be fine, I’ll just mail them their presents.” Megan agreed, going right back to vacation planning with Cindy.

You gave Bernard a look that he returned before the two of you went up to your room. You pulled open your laptop and sat on the floor, Bernard looking around your room, eyes careful, admiring every detail until he found it, the snow globe he’d given you still sitting on the shelf.

He smiled softly, picking it up and giving it a shake before setting it back. “You still have it.”

“Of course I do. I’ve had it in all of my apartments. I don’t move anywhere without it.” You smiled and paused, thinking. “Did you…use your magic on it when you gave it to me? Maybe that’s what’s bringing my memory back.”

“No, I only used my magic to inscribe the plaque.” He explained, pointing to where the words were inscribed in curling cursive words, Believing is Seeing. “Something else is protecting your memory, even now.”

“Mother Nature?” You wondered quietly. Then again, if she wanted to protect your memories, why would she have wiped them in the first place? It didn’t make sense, so instead, you turned your attention to Google. “Alright, what’s Santa’s government name? As long as Jack didn’t kill him, we should be able to find him.”

“Scott. Scott Calvin.” Bernard replied, sitting on the carpet beside you, leg brushing against yours. “When we found him, he was living in Illinois. He might still be close to there now.”

“Scott Calvin…” You said quietly, typing his name in the search bar along with Illinois to attempt to narrow down the search results. It was common name, but hopefully not too common. You scrolled through hits from Facebook, showing Bernard the profile pictures to see if there was one he recognized. After all, you never saw Santa when he was still human, only as the Big Man himself.

“There! There, that’s him!” Bernard pointed to one of the Scotts. You clicked on his profile and started scrolling.

Marriage Status: Divorced

Employment: Frost Toys, Illinois

“Frost Toys.” You read, sounding deflated. “Even he’s working for Frost.”

“Can you get a phone number? His business phone maybe?”

“Can do.” You hopped onto his LinkedIn and found his contact, punching in the number and handing your phone to Bernard.

He waited while it rang, shaking his head when it booted him to voicemail. There was a long beep and Bernard said, exasperated, “Hey Scott, this is Bernard. If you remember me, remember anything, please call back. We’re going to fix all of this.”

He hung up and handed the phone back to you, looking disappointed.

“It’s okay. It’s gonna be fine.”

“Having trouble believing that at the moment.” He exhaled, frustrated. “This is bad.”

“On a scale of zero to plastic Santa…?”

He chuckled, mood lightening the tiniest bit. “You heard about that?”

“It was the talk of the meeting that month.” You laughed, remembering. Your smile faded when you remembered who else had been at that meeting. Maybe that was where Jack had gotten his messed up little idea of world domination.

“I’d take three of that guy before this.” Bernard shook his head. “What now?”

You thought before shrugging. “I guess we’re going to Illinois.”

“You’re serious? You’re coming with me to get Scott?”

“Or what, let you do this on your own? No way. Help me get some stuff together. I just put gas in my car so we should be good for a while.”

He smiled, getting to his feet and pulling you up after him. “Alright, what do you need?”

As quickly as you could, you gathered up the absolute basics: a pair of pajamas, an extra set of clothes, your toothbrush and toothpaste, your hairbrush, extra fuzzy socks, and a phone charger. Once the two of you were done, you stopped in the kitchen to load up on snacks and drinks for the long car ride, garnering looks from your roommates.

“Hey, who’s the guy?” Cindy asked, having missed him on his way in, apparently.

“I’m Bernard, a friend of (Y/N)’s. We have, uh, History together. History class, that is.” He offered his hand, but neither of them shook it, still too wrapped up in their phones and the cruise tickets they were busy booking.

“Ohhhh, right, I think I remember her mentioning you.” Megan nodded, agreeing. “You two going somewhere?”

“Illinois.”

“Why?” Cindy asked. “What’s in Illinois?”

“We’re going to see The Bean. I’ve heard it’s lovely this time of year.” You shrugged. “Probably cheaper than a North Pole trip, too.”

“The Bean…” Bernard chuckled, shaking his head as he shoved a box of Rice Krispy Treats in the snack bag along with some Hershey Kisses and a bag of Twizzlers.

“Okay, Mr. Sweet Tooth, pack some salty stuff for me,” you muttered, elbowing him.

“Heh, right. Sorry.” He smiled sheepishly, packing a few saltier options that would appeal to your human taste buds.

“We probably won’t be back by the time you two leave, so…lock up good, alright?” You asked, meeting each of their eyes.

You loved your roommates. You knew they weren’t usually like this, dropping literally everything for a vacation. It was something about this timeline. Christmas wasn’t…happy like it was supposed to be. It was a bitter, greedy thing that was pushing these girls, who loved their families very much, away from their loved ones during the holidays. It made you sick.

“You alright?” Bernard asked, noticing the moment you began to space out. The last thing he needed was to lose you, too.

“I’m good, yeah. Let’s go.”

***

Hauling your little suitcase and your bag full of snacks, the two of you walked out of the apartment to where you’d parked your car. Thankfully, it was still there, one of the things the new timeline seemed to have no effect on. You slid your suitcase onto the back seat and Bernard set the bag of snacks on the floor in front of the passenger seat.

You settled into the driver’s seat, turning on the car and adjusting the temperature and the mirrors. Bernard fiddled with the radio, looking for Christmas tunes and finding them, catching the end of White Christmas just in time for an announcement from the radio host.

“We’re playing your favorite Christmas Hits all day, 24/7. That was White Christmas by Michael Bublé, up next, Santa’s new hit single, Come Meet Santa.”

“You’re kidding me.” You groaned as an insufferable song started blaring from the speakers, Jack singing about his fancy new resort at the Pole.

“He’s got the reindeer in a petting zoo?” Bernard asked, disheartened as he listened to the lyrics.

“Oh my god…” You shook your head. “We’ve gotta find Scott.”

You connected your own Christmas playlist to the aux cord, doing away with Jack’s twisted idea of Christmas and set up navigation to the Frost Toys office building in Chicago. You figured even if it wasn’t exact, it would get you close enough to Scott by the time he called you back. Well, you hoped he would. Hope was kind of all the two of you had.

You drove out the front gates of your college campus and started heading towards the highway. “Let me know if you need a bathroom break or anything.”

“Alright.” Bernard nodded, still looking tense.

“Did you…try to call the Pole? I don’t know if there’s a special number for that or…?”

“I did. Customer Service put me on hold.”

You blinked. “Customer Service?”

“Yeah we didn’t have that department yesterday.” Bernard crossed his arms and leaned back against the seat, eyes squeezed shut in what you were sure was the immense stress of the situation. “Sounds like Curtis is in charge up there now, though. It’s like I never existed.”

“Oh.” You said, turning on your blinker to get in the faster lane. “I’m really sorry, Bernard.”

“Yeah, it’s…we’re gonna fix it.” He insisted, repeating your sentiment from earlier. “We have to.”

“We will.” You assured him.

He chuckled darkly. “This whole time, all I’ve been able to think about is how…this…what I’m going through now is what you’ve been going through for the past three years.”

“If it makes you feel better, I didn’t really know what I was missing out on until today.”

“How do you mean?”

“Something about you showing up jogged my memory. Before that, it was just little tiny bits and pieces. If it weren’t for your snow globe, I definitely would have thought I was losing my mind. I remembered Mother Nature and the…role she played in this, I guess, but I could not have told you what she looks like. All I’ve had is the idea of her.”

“And now?”

“Now I remember. Pretty much everything, I think. Santa, the Pole, you, all of it.”

“Well that’s good for us.” Bernard chuckled.

“And when it’s over, I’m sure she’ll just…wipe me all over again.”

“I will see to it myself that that does not happen.” He shook his head. “I can’t believe she ever did that to you to begin with. Lead you on like that just to drop you like nothing happened.”

“Yeah.” You shrugged, letting out a sigh. “I don’t know, I just…like I said to you that day in your office—I think, it’s still a little fuzzy—I always knew it was a little too good to be true. I always felt like I just…I was the puzzle piece that didn’t fit. That there was this big, beautiful, magical world out there, but I wasn’t meant to…be part of it, I guess.”

“I don’t think that’s true.” Bernard shook his head. “I’m 1600 years old and I’ve never met someone who doesn’t have a place. And having met you, I can guarantee you do belong. If Mother Nature can’t see that, then that’s her loss.”

You smiled softly. “Thanks.”

“You know, we can always use a hand in the ornament department.”

“I’d work anywhere you stuck me just to be able to hang out at the Pole again.”

“See, that’s the spirit.” He laughed.

The two of you drove for a handful of hours and you did decide to stop for gas, just to be safe. That, and you were really craving a gas station slushee. So, you filled the tank while Bernard grabbed the two of you some slushees for the rest of the drive down.

While he was standing there, there was a weird, floaty feeling about him. For a moment, his hands began to fade, sparkles taking their place, but as soon as you walked through the doors, the bell jingling above your head, the feeling went away and he exhaled a sigh of relief, feeling solid again.

“You alright?” You asked, voice hushed.

He squeezed his eyes shut, nodding before daring to meet your gaze. Never in his millennia and a half had he ever felt so weak.

“Bernard?”

“I’m fine!” He insisted, raising his voice slightly, but softening when he met your eyes again. “Sorry, I’m…fine.”

“Hang in there.” You whispered, standing closer to him. “I can’t lose you, too.”

He nodded, but didn’t say anything. The two of you went back out to the car, sipping your slushees and turning the Christmas music back on when it was interrupted suddenly by an incoming call.

You looked at Bernard and he reached over, putting the call on speaker. “Hello?”

“Bernard? Is that you?” Santa’s voice came out of the speakers and you sighed in relief.

“Santa? Oh thank the stars.” Bernard closed his eyes, a long breath working out of his lungs.

“What the hell is going on? Where are you?”

“We’re about an hour from Frost Toys. We did some research and found this, uh, new job of yours.”

“Don’t get me started.” He chuckled. “I’ll send my apartment address. Does this number work? Whose phone is this, I didn’t know you had a cell phone.”

“I don’t. It’s a long story, but I’m with a friend and we’re on the way.”

“Good. Well then, I’ll see you two soon. The sooner the better.” Scott sounded very relieved. He hung up and texted over your new destination, which was just a little ways further than the building you were already heading towards.

With new fervor, you pulled out of the gas station and got back on the highway, reaching Scott’s apartment with speeds even Bernard was impressed by. You pulled into the parking garage, got your little orange slip to put on the dash, and took the elevator into the building. Scott buzzed you upstairs and you met him outside the door of the snazzy, modern downtown apartment. At the very least, this timeline had given him a cushy job. He ushered the two of you inside.

“Bernard.” Scott greeted, hugging his Head Elf briefly before the two turned back to you. “I’ve never been so relieved to see you.”

“Likewise.” Bernard sighed.

“And you are…?”

“(Y/N). (Y/N) (L/N).” You introduced, offering your hand. “I don’t expect you to—”

“Oh! You were Mother Nature’s apprentice for a bit, weren’t you?” He asked, remembering.

“Yeah. That was me.” You nodded, deciding to spare him the gritty details. “I’m here to help save Christmas.”

“That might be easier said than done…”

“(Y/N) thinks Jack might have used time travel to do this. We were planning on going to see Father Time to see if any of this is something he can fix, or…or if Jack did something to him and that’s how he accomplished all of this.”

“It wasn’t Father Time.” Scott shook his head. “Jack tricked me with a wishing snow globe. Made me wish I had never been Santa and…took the coat for himself.”

“Oh.” Bernard murmured, nodding. “The Escape Clause. Well that would do it, then.”

“There’s gotta be some way to undo this.” Scott said. “It can’t just be over. This can’t be it. Carol…she doesn’t even know who I am.”

“Mrs. Claus?” You asked softly and he nodded solemnly.

You’d met her on a few occasions and she had always been so nice to you, relieved to have another human-ish woman at the Pole, as she said, which always earned a laugh from you. And now, she was a school principal again at a public school who didn’t believe in Christmas anymore. Even Mrs. Claus wasn’t safe from Jack’s trickery.

“Okay, so…we go to the Pole, then. Get…plane tickets, I guess. My roommates were planning their vacation there when we left, so if they can do it, I’m sure we can.”

“Definitely.” Scott nodded, searching for tickets on his phone.

“We go there, find that snow globe, and undo all of this, set it right, the way it’s supposed to be.” You said, determined.

“You think it’ll work?” Scott asked Bernard and he thought over it for a long time before nodding.

“It has to.”

***

Scott booked three tickets for the earliest flight in the morning, at five. You changed into pajamas so you could attempt to get some sleep, and Bernard put something on the TV. You emerged from Scott’s guest bedroom, face wiped clean of makeup, hair freshly brushed, and cute little penguins on your pajama pants. Bernard grinned.

“What?”

“Penguins?”

“I thought they were cute.” You defended, shrugging as you plopped down on the couch next to him.

“I never said they weren’t.” He shrugged, kicking his feet up on the coffee table.

“Hey, pizza sound good, you two?” Scott called from the kitchen.

“Sounds perfect.” You replied.

“Yeah, that’s fine.” Bernard agreed, flipping channels until he found what he was looking for. Ah yes, the Christmas movies. Specifically, the stop-motion Rankin/Bass movies you’d watched during your childhood. Absolute classics.

You gasped, childlike wonder filling your features. “Oh, I love this one.”

“You like these movies?”

“I’ve seen just about all of them, I think. We always used to watch them when I was a kid. These were my childhood. I like them a lot more than the Hallmark movies my roommates are always watching.”

“Rightfully so.” Bernard agreed. “These guys just…got it.”

“Better than anyone else.” You sat criss-cross on the couch. “Riddle me this, Mr. Head Elf, is Rudolph real?”

“Sorry to burst your bubble, (Y/N), but no, he is not.”

“No! What? You’re lying!” You covered your face with your hands. “My life is a lie.”

“I wouldn’t lie about something like that.” He laughed. “Rudolph is not one of our reindeer. The rest all are, though. Dasher and Dancer and Prancer and Vixen.”

“Comet and Cupid and Donner and Blitzen?” You asked.

Bernard smiled, proud. “Precisely.”

“Hey,” Scott held the phone away from his face for a second, covering the microphone with his hand, “pepperoni good? Thin crust?”

“Sounds good to me, Santa.” Bernard gave a thumbs-up. He could not, for the life of him, remember the last time he’d even had pizza.

“Yeah, I love thin crust.” You agreed.

“Great.” He nodded and walked back towards the kitchen again, finalizing the pizza order.

The commercial break hit with, of course, an ad for the North Pole Waterpark and Resort. There were clips of miserable elves playing games in the arcade, forced to work as lifeguards in the waterpark, facilitating the reindeer petting zoo.

You frowned, that familiar feeling of dread settling into your stomach again. This was awful.

“That’s Betty, there, in the green. Third in command. Second, now, I guess. She looks…”

“Miserable.” You finished.

“Yeah.” Bernard nodded. He let out a frustrated shout. “I can’t believe this is happening! Look at them! Look at what he’s done to the Pole!”

Bernard took a shaking breath and slumped back against the couch, his lack of magic hitting him once again and that floaty, sparkly feeling returning.

“Bernard?” You asked, voice rising in concern.

“It’s my magic. The magic of the Pole, of Christmas, everything. Elves are…well, we’re basically made of magic, so if we don’t fix this, and soon…” He shook his head, words trailing off into hopelessness.

“Take some of mine.” You said, quiet, but certain.

He stared at you for a long moment. “What?”

“Take some of my magic.” You told him, more confident this time.

“You still have magic?” He asked, eyebrows furrowing.

“And no idea how to use it, but you do. You need it more than I do right now.”

“O-okay.” He nodded, sitting up a little straighter.

You unfurled your legs, turning to face him. You turned his hands so they were in a receiving position and placed your palms on his, taking a deep breath and closing your eyes to focus yourself, tuning into the fragments of magic still inside of you and then pushing them towards him, through his hands, up his arms, into his chest.

He flinched a little at the feeling, the sharp, cold tingle, but his eyes widened when he saw it, your magic, flowing into him. It was iridescent, teal and purple and pink and blue, waves ebbing and flowing, its gentle glow lighting up your features in the dim room, your hair blowing around softly in the gentle breeze it created.

It looked like the Northern Lights.

He pulled away after a few long moments, stopping the flow. You opened your eyes to look at him.

“Do you feel better?” You asked, concern etched deep in your gaze, pulling at his heart strings in a way he hadn’t felt in centuries.

“A lot better. Thank you,” he said. “But save some for yourself. That might be what’s protecting your memories.”

“Right.” You nodded, thinking. “That makes sense.”

It was quiet, the murmur of the TV the only sound other than Scott in the kitchen, getting dishes out in anticipation of the pizzas arriving, their ceramic clattering against the fancy marble counters you’d spotted on your way in.

You looked at Bernard, really looked at him for the first time. You’d be lying if you said you hadn’t been crushing on him a little bit, back when you were acquaintances, when he was the knowledgeable, responsible, somewhat stern Head Elf with a heart of gold and you were Mother Nature’s apprentice, vying for a destiny you would not receive.

You remembered the way your heart would lurch when he peeked into the meetings you sat in on, with the rest of the Legendary Figures, and occasionally, the Guardians of the Seasons, if their presence was necessary.

One of the other elves, you were pretty sure her name was Abby, had given you a tour the first time you were there, she’d introduced you to him, and she’d also called to attention the way your cheeks went rosy the moment you walked away from him.

You wondered if he thought of you, if he had those memories too, tucked away someplace special, or if you were just another passerby in his long, long life. Sometimes you almost forgot he was hiding a thousand years behind that youthful face.

Sitting there, you weren’t sure if it was him who started leaning in or you, but it stopped as soon as Scott called for you from the other room, like a scratched record in the middle of a sweet, slow Christmas ballad, pulling you both back down to reality.

“Pizza.” You chuckled, standing up from the couch. Maybe it was the lighting, but you swore Bernard’s cheeks were rosier than they had been before.

“Right. Pizza.”

The two of you walked out to the kitchen together and sat on the barstools pulled up to the counter, grabbing slices of the thin-crust pepperoni.

“So, I booked the North Pole tickets. I also booked us tickets from there to London…Just in case.”

“Gee, thanks for the vote of confidence.” Bernard chuckled.

“Hey, you look better.” Scott noted.

“I’m feeling a lot better, too.” Bernard motioned to you. “(Y/N) here still has a few tricks up her sleeve.”

“Good. We’re gonna need all the magic we can get.”

***

You didn’t get very much sleep before your alarm went off. It had been about what you were expecting. You never slept well when you were stressed.

You did, however, have a dream.

You were sitting in a meeting with Mother Nature and the Guardians, the two of them that were left after the Spring Enchantress’ retirement. Of course, you were training up to fill the position, so it wouldn’t remain empty for long.

Mother Nature led the meeting, held in the giant tree at the center of her Grotto, glancing at her watch every few minutes until finally, he showed up. Jack Frost. Even then, chills ran up your spine, though, at the time, you were convinced it was a side effect of his existence in general.

“Sorry I’m late, ladies. Had quite the hold up in Toronto.” He shrugged, sliding into the fifth seat at the round table, a snowflake embedded in the crystalline mosaic on the table’s surface. “What are we talking about?”

“You, actually.” Mother Nature stated, sitting up straighter. “We were wondering how the search for the Aurora was going, since you’ve elected to take on the task yourself.”

“Ah, yes, well, it’s certainly not easy. Winter Guardians don’t just fall from the sky, you know. But I’ve searched all of the places she used to pop up. Hence my overlay in Canada.” Jack shrugged. “And besides, it’s been five centuries since we’ve had one, I think we’re doing just fine without her.”

“I wouldn’t say that.” The Autumn Witch, a gorgeous young woman named Amber Sanderson, interjected, meeting him with her sharp gaze. Her long, curly orange hair was as beautiful as the autumn leaves, brown skin smooth and ageless, even after her thirty or so years on the council. She didn’t look a day over twenty-five.

“Then what would you say, Ms. Sanderson?” Jack countered, crossing his arms and leaning back in his chair. “If you have a problem with the way I’m running things, I’d prefer if you were forward about it.”

“We have been.” Evangeline Cho agreed, the Summer Sorceress. As her season had just started, she was glowing even more brilliantly than she usually did. “Every year, winter creeps further and further into autumn and spring. And it seems you haven’t done anything to stop it.”

“What, I can’t control that! I’m getting more powerful! It’s merely a side effect.”

“Which is precisely why we need someone on this council who can control their abilities. Such as an Aurora, which you were tasked with finding nearly a century ago, Frost.” Mother Nature stated, her voice cool and even. “If you’d like one of us to find her instead—”

“Oh no, no, that won’t be necessary. I promise you, by next winter, we will have an Aurora again and I’ll go back to managing snow days and frosting window panes.” He drew an X over his heart. “Cross my heart.”

“Excellent.” Mother Nature nodded. “Meeting adjourned.”

You blinked awake in time with Mother Nature’s gavel, staring at the ceiling of Scott’s guest room. That wasn’t a dream. You were certain. It was a memory. You’d have to tell the others.

***

Once your alarm went off, you got dressed and met Scott and Bernard in the entryway of the apartment. Bernard, who hadn’t changed his clothes, had one pointed ear sticking out the brim of his hat, a dead giveaway if there ever was one. You rummaged through your carry on and produced a knitted hat you’d made a few years back, motioning to his ear.

“Oh. Right. Thanks.” He nodded, swapping his usual headwear for the hat you gave him, slipping it on with ease. “Where’d you get this?”

“I made it. I knit.”

He chuckled, checking his reflection to make sure he was covered well. “Well aren’t you just full of surprises?”

“As we’re both learning.”

Scott drove the three of you to the airport and you arrived early, hoping your plane would be a little ahead of schedule, but when you found it was actually delayed an hour, it gave you time to grab drinks at the coffee shop.

“Hot cocoa, shot of espresso, extra whipped cream, please.” You ordered, Bernard just behind you.

“I’ll have the same, but make it a double shot.”

“Coming right up,” the barista nodded, setting to work.

Outside, the sun was just beginning to rise, filling the sky with orange and pink, sunlight glistening on the icicles hanging from the windows. You smiled, appreciating the quiet moment despite the dread looming overhead.

Once your drinks were ready, you joined Scott on a chair near the windows.

“So um, I had a dream last night. I think it was a memory from before.” You said, not sure how else to bring it up.

“What was it about?” Scott asked, curious.

“I was at a meeting with Mother Nature and the Guardians. Jack was there, sitting in for…the Aurora, I guess.”

“The Winter Aurora.” Bernard replied, nodding.

“What is that?” Scott asked, unfamiliar with the term.

“Well, there’s a Guardian for each season, often a woman, gifted with the powers of that specific time of year. They work with their Legendary Figures to oversee the flow of time and ensure everything is on schedule. The Spring Enchantress, the Summer Sorceress, the Autumn Witch, and the Winter Aurora.” Bernard explained. “We haven’t had an Aurora at the Pole in 500 years…”

“Well that would explain why I’ve never heard of her.” Scott nodded, thinking. “So Jack took her job?”

“Yeah, they were talking about his…powers increasing, I’m assuming because he was getting buffed by her powers in addition to his. And how winter is creeping into autumn and spring because of it.”

“That’s not good.” Bernard shook his head. “The seasons have to be balanced. Jack’s hunger for power is messing up the eco system.”

“Mother Nature said he was supposed to be looking for her, and I don’t know…maybe he just…wasn’t looking.”

“Wouldn’t surprise me.” Bernard took a long sip of his cocoa. “I’ll add that to the top of my list as soon as we get everything else back to normal.”

As soon as you finished your drinks, the plane started boarding, so you followed after Scott and onto the plane. Through the windows in the walkway, you could see the plane, giant, winter blue, and emblazoned with a giant picture of Jack Frost’s Santa impression, giving a thumbs-up.

“I’m gonna puke.” You rolled your eyes.

“Ditto.”

The three of you boarded and settled into your seats, all in a row. Scott had brought his laptop along to do some research on the flight. He figured it was better to go in with something of a plan than be blindsided by whatever you found on the other side. You had a feeling the Pole would look a lot different than last you’d seen it.

You settled into the window seat and got as comfortable as you could. For a supposedly luxury flight, the seats were surprisingly stiff. Knowing Jack, you should have expected him to cut corners, even in his power fantasy brought to life.

“How are you feeling about all of this?” Bernard asked, voice soft.

“As well as I can, I guess.” You shrugged. “I’m glad I’m not doing this alone.”

He nodded, eyes meeting yours, soft and serious. “I am, too.”

A lady in a flowery dress walked past, her perfume so strong, you caught a whiff of it from the window seat, its floral scent immediately tickling your nose. You tried your best to suppress the sneeze, but to no avail. You sneezed two times, waiting for a third, but it never came.

“Jeez.” You shook your head, reaching for the Benedryl in your bag.

“What’s that for?”

“My allergies. That lady’s perfume was pretty strong.” You chuckled.

“You have allergies?” Bernard asked, eyes narrowing. “Spring allergies.”

“…Yeah?”

“You have spring allergies and Mother Nature thought you were the new Spring Enchantress?” Bernard asked, looking skeptical. He knew Mother Nature. She was an intelligent, almost all-knowing being. He knew she wouldn’t make a mistake that obvious.

“That part never made sense to me either.” You shrugged.

“She thought you were a Spring, but…you’re obviously more of a Winter. I might be a bit biased, though.” He smirked.

Your heart raced when he said it, the realization hitting you that he was flirting. You were getting hit on by Santa’s Head Elf. That was something not everyone could say.

“I mean, I was born in December. The 21st.”

Suddenly, his flirting demeanor was gone, replaced instead by a look of realization, like you had just given him the last piece of the puzzle he’d been trying to solve since the day you left the Pole. “The Winter Solstice…”

“What was that?”

“Nothing. Let me see that, Santa.” Bernard took the laptop from Scott’s lap desk, clumsily navigating with the mousepad and punching something into the search bar. “Where was it your parents are from, (Y/N)?”

“I grew up in South Carolina. We were supposed to live in Michigan, but Dad got a job opportunity at the last minute, so we moved right after I was born.”

“Whereabouts?”

“Traverse City.”

“Hmm…” Bernard clicked through articles a bit before finding a story that made your heart race. “Is…Is this the house?”

“Yeah. Yeah, that’s…Oh my god.” You covered your mouth, reading through the article. Three months after your family had moved out, there had been a freak snow storm that took out half the houses in the neighborhood. And your house had been hit the worst, the roof over what would have been your nursery was caved in completely.

“Jack hasn’t been not looking for the Aurora. He’s been killing her every time she’s popped up.” Bernard concluded, a horrified look on his face.

“Wait. So you’re saying…” You swallowed the lump in your throat. “I’m…”

“Mother Nature appointed you Spring Enchantress to throw him off of your scent.” He said. “That has to be it. It’s the only explanation.”

“Are you sure?” You asked, fingers shaking as you wiped your sweaty palms on your pants. “I…I mean, wouldn’t I know? I’m not…special. Not like that…”

“Are you kidding me?” Bernard asked, incredulous. “You’ve gotta be kidding me. (Y/N), I’ve seen your magic. It’s the only think keeping me alive right now. It…” He reached for your hand, positioning your palm so it was facing upwards and as soon as he did, a wave of stunning Northern Lights glowed between your fingers. “Do you see that? I’ve seen Aurora magic. This is that. I can’t believe I didn’t figure it out sooner…”

“Woah.” Scott muttered, eyes falling on the scene unfolding between the two of you.

You curled your fingers, pulling the magic back into yourself and extinguishing the light. You sat with it for a moment and met Bernard’s gaze. “He tried to kill me.” You murmured, tears brimming in your eyes. “He tried to kill me for…for power? For a title?”

“We’re not going to let him get away with it.” Scott stated, fire in his gaze. “We’re not going to let him get away with any of it.”

You felt a tingling on your head and watched as white trickled from your scalp down to the ends of the piece of hair at the front of your face. Your heart raced and you touched the hair with shaking fingers.

It was real now. You were the Winter Aurora. And you had a feeling the closer you got to the Pole, the more evident that would become…

***

By the time the plane landed, the three of you were settled on a plan. Scott, Jack’s biggest priority, would cause a distraction, buying time for you two. Bernard would find the elves and try to snap them out of it. You, as the only one Jack wouldn’t fully recognize, would go find the snow globe and get it to Scott so he could undo his wish and fix everything.

Was it a perfect plan? No. But it was all you had, so it would have to be enough.

You walked off of the plane together, hoping the streak of white in your hair wouldn’t draw too much attention. Once you were inside the gates, the three of you huddled, finalizing your plan.

“You’re going to be fine on your own? Do you know how to get to the snow globe room?” Scott checked.

“I’m…being here…yeah, I’m definitely gonna be able to find it.” You nodded, still completely blown away by the powerful waves of magic, hitting you all at once for the first time. “It’s all coming back to me.”

Bernard grinned, hopeful. “Good. Good luck.”

“You too. Stay safe. I…I really don’t trust him. What he’s capable of…” You said warily.

The Head Elf shook his head, confident. “Is nothing compared to what you are.”

“Let’s save Christmas.” Scott announced.

The three of you split off. You watched as Bernard and Scott walked away together, Scott playfully nudging Bernard. About what, you couldn’t be certain, but you had a pretty good feeling it had something to do with you.

Cheeks flushed for more reason than one, you took off, following the swirling feeling around your heart, dodging past security elves with a stealth and speed you didn’t know you possessed. It was like muscle memory, suppressed very deep in the core of your being. A power you had never tapped into, but one that was quick to embrace you. You felt it in your soul, the Pole wanted you there, and it was very glad you’d returned.

Following the instructions Scott and Bernard had given you, you walked briskly down the corridors, slinking past bakery elves on their way to one of the many tourist eating spots. The workshop itself sat big and empty, barely an elf in sight. The few that were there looked tired, sad, working on tacky Santa Claus bobble heads and cheap gift shop pens. It broke your heart.

Distant voices echoed against the cavernous halls. In your mind, you heard echoes, too. Laughter and love and light, elves building toys, creating things together, working to make the kids of the world happy, no matter what it took. The workshop had been wrapped in pine trim and string lights, warm and bright.

Now, it sat dark and empty.

You wiped a tear from your cheek and continued down the hall, to where the entrance to the Hall of Snowglobes was. And at its entrance, was Betty, who stared at you for a long moment as though trying to place where she recognized you from, but quickly shook it off.

“You can’t be back here. No visitors allowed. I can escort you back to the main area, though.” She offered, smiling.

“Your name is Betty, right?”

She hesitated. “How did you…? Nevermind that, you’re still not allowed back here.”

“I have to be back here.” You told her. “It’s important. The fate of Christmas depends on it.”

“Well, the fate of Christmas depends on me doing my job, so if you’ll follow me this way.”

“I can’t do that, Betty.” You shook your head. “And I know you don’t want to either. Don’t you see that all of this is wrong? That what Jack’s done to the Pole, the capitalism, the resort, the gift shops, the reindeer in the petting zoo, this is not what Christmas is supposed to be. You know that. I know you know that.”

Betty’s features saddened and for a moment, you thought you’d won her over until she reached for a walkie talkie. “Security, we’ve got a tourist that needs to be removed from the Workshop.”

“Great.” You huffed, summoning your power to your hand, just as Bernard had shown you. But instead of sending a blast of energy at her, you let it slowly waft over, rainbow colors and dancing lights slowly enveloping her. As the magic hit her face, she blinked through it, eyes awash in the pinks and teals and purples. Yet another streak of white flowed through your hair.

She dropped to her knees and stared up at you, tears in her eyes as it all came flooding back. Her voice fell to a whisper. “You’re our Aurora.”

“I am.” You nodded, feeling confident in your title for the first time. “And I need your help. We don’t have much time.”

“Bernard, he’s gone! He—”

“He came here with me. We have to hurry. We need that snow globe.” You told her and she nodded.

You helped Betty to her feet and she ushered you into the Hall of Snowglobes, carefully plucking the little glass orb that had started all of this off of its pedestal and handing it to you. You held it with careful hands, admiring it. It was beautiful, if not absolutely dangerous.

“We’ve gotta get this to Santa.” You told her.

She nodded, following you out of the Workshop and into the bustling center of town, an absolute sensory overload if there ever was one. Tourists packed the streets, vendors were shouting over the noise, and above it all, speakers were blaring Jack’s Christmas Album, each new song worst than the one before it.

There was a massive stage, covered in fake ice and bright lights, and on said stage, was him, Jack Frost in all of his faux Santa glory, his red suit iced at the ends, hair spiked and ridiculous, like icicles. Behind him, was a row of toy soldiers and in their grasp was none other than Bernard, eyes wide in fear as Jack manifested a blast of snow in his hand.

“(Y/N)!” Scott shouted over the crowd, waving wildly to get your attention.

“Get this to Scott.” You handed the snow globe to Betty, urgency in your voice and your eyes. “I’ve gotta get Bernard.”

“On it.” She took the globe from you and weaved through the crowd expertly. You ran towards the stage as though everything was moving in slow motion.

“This guy isn’t Santa! He’s trying to ruin Christmas!” Bernard shouted, voice cracking as he did.

Jack laughed loudly, and the crowd assembled did the same. “Do you hear him? I am Santa! Without me, there would be no Christmas! What gives you the right to say any of this?”

“I’m the Head Elf!” Bernard insisted, struggling against the toy soldiers. “I’ve seen a thousand Christmases and dozens of Santas! You are nothing compared to any of them!”

“Alright, tough guy, you think I’m not Santa? How about I show you what a real Santa is capable of?” Jack threatened, ice in his voice. He raised his hand to freeze Bernard and you dove onto the stage, tackling Jack to the ground, earning a loud gasp and several concerned voices from the crowd.

“Don’t you dare touch him, you fucking narcissistic popsicle!” You shouted, getting a good punch in before retreating to Bernard’s side, kicking the toy soldier behind him and pulling apart the large ribbon bow binding his wrists. Parents covered their children’s ears, shielding them from the harsh language. Some of the crowd cleared out, retreating to a safer distance, while others pulled out their phones, desperate to go viral on YouTube.

“Come on.” You grabbed Bernard’s hand and he squeezed yours, following you off of the stage and through the crowd to where Scott stood with the snow globe. He shook it and made a wish, but nothing happened.

“What?” Scott asked, trying again. “It won’t work.”

“It’s the Escape Clause.” Bernard closed his eyes, remembering the rules. “Jack made this wish. He’s…he’s Santa now; he’s the only one who can undo this.”

“Oh my god.” A wave of dread flowed over you.

“And those, my dears, are the words I will never utter.” Jack said, dusting himself off and sauntering over to the four of you, his security not far behind, ready to apprehend all of you. “It was a nice try, though. Really valiant effort, all four of you. Scott, Bernard, Betty…and you. I can’t say I recognize you.”

“Maybe if you had half a braincell, you would.”

He scoffed, offended. “Well, I guess it doesn’t matter. They’ll figure that much out when they get you to jail, I suppose.” He shrugged and the security officers seized the four of you, taking the snow globe and giving it back to Jack. He tossed it in the air cockily a few times before chuckling. “You know, I don’t need this thing. I’m never going to wish all of this away.”

Frost tendrils crept up the glass dome and in a great burst of light, it shattered. You gasped, feeling the magic settle. This was it. This was reality now. There was no way to undo it.

“O-oh.” Bernard took a stuttered breath, faltering. He collapsed to the ground and you pushed away from security, rushing to his side and collecting him in your arms.

“Bernard?”

He shook his head. You raised a hand to give him more of your magic, but he lowered it with his own. “You have to finish this, Aurora.” He said, eyes serious, glimmering despite the pain you could tell he was in. “You’re the only one who can.”

He leaned forward, a hand brushing the hair away from your face, capturing your lips with his own, his kiss soft and tender, tasting faintly of peppermint, and then he disappeared in a burst of sparkles, his silver and gold magic drifting forward into your chest.

You gasped, tears rolling down your cheeks, arms empty and heart emptier. “No! NO! What did you do to him?” You turned, facing Jack.

“The only thing I could. Protecting Christmas from the likes of you.” He shrugged. “What was it he called you? Autumn? Is that your name? Autumn?”

“No.” You told him, rising to your feet, pure magic lifting you from the ground and setting you on your feet.

His eyes widened and he took a step back.

“I’m the Aurora.” You rose into the air, teals and purples and pinks swirling around you in a rush of power. You raised your hand, manifesting the snow globe within it, its broken shards reforming in your grasp, effortless and precise. Once it was whole again, you shook it, magic swirling within its waters, overriding the rules of the Escape Clause with rules of your own.

A voice came out of you then that you weren’t sure was your own. It came deep from your chest, echoing across the pole, accompanied by a wave of power, the same magic you’d used on Betty, but tenfold, fierce and fiery, prickling like static all down your arms as it left you.

“May Everything Return to the Way it Was Before, to the Way it was Always Meant to Be.”

And with one final rush of magic, everything went white.

***

It took a while for the picture to form in front of you, your hearing distorted, the colors slowly coming back one by one.

You were kneeling there in the center of the Workshop, which was full of elves, their work paused as they watched the scene unfolding. Scott was Santa once more, wearing his red undershirt and suspenders, looking jollier than you’d ever seen him. Carol stood beside him, looking confused.

Mother Nature was there, as was Tooth, and, of course, Jack Frost, wearing his signature blue suit as opposed to the red one he’d been wearing moments earlier.

You got to your feet, looking for Bernard in the crowd, but not finding him. Your heart lurched, your search brought to a halt by Jack’s nasally voice.

“Aw, come on now, kid, no hard feelings, right?”

Rather than replying, you wound up and punched him square in the jaw with more force than you were used to possessing.

“OOOOOOOH…” The elves murmured, wincing as Jack fell to the ground, gripping his face.

“I’m going to ask you one last time and you are going to answer me. What. Did you do to him.” You demanded, a fierce power zinging through you.

“I didn’t do anything to him! This is all a big misunderstanding! Right, Santa? Tooth? Back me up on this!” Jack groveled, shielding his face with both hands, cowering in fear.

“Can’t do that, Jack.” Scott shook his head. “You have to answer to her.”

“Where is Bernard?”

“I feel like there are more pressing issues at hand—” Jack deflected, shrinking further away from you.

“What’s that?” One of the elves asked, pointing to a column of sparkles manifesting beside you.

You turned to look, staring at it until it clicked. Reaching into yourself, you let the last pieces of Bernard’s magic flow out of your chest, where it had retreated for safekeeping. Silver and gold glitter rushed out of you, swirling from the ground up until he was standing there again, solid and real.

He all but collapsed into your arms, holding onto you tightly while he found his balance again.

“Bernard,” you sobbed, holding him close, your arms desperate to prove he was real again, that he was solid and wasn’t going anywhere.

“Hey, no need for tears, Aurora. I’m alright.” He grinned, meeting your gaze. His hand rose to your cheek and he wiped your tears away as he took you in for all that you were. “Thanks to you, I am.”

“(Y/N)?” Mother Nature asked, voice soft and warm.

“I…I can explain.” You insisted, turning to face her.

“No need, dear one. I know why you’re here. I’ve always known.” She smiled, bowing her head. “And now that you’re here, we can finish this.”

You looked to Bernard and he nodded, letting go of you to give you a gentle push forward, his eyes proud and supportive.

“Kneel.” She instructed, and you did, dropping to one knee in front of her.

The elves fell silent, desperate to witness what was unfolding for the first time in centuries.

“(Y/N) (L/N), through your bravery and selflessness, you have proven what I’ve known all along. You are the Aurora Borealis, the Winter Guardian, and Protector of the North Pole and all her Magic. For the first time in five centuries, the North Pole has an Aurora, which means…” She looked to Jack, who shook his head desperately.

“No. No way. I am not giving an ounce of my power to that…that…she punched me! Twice! Did none of you see that? She’s violent!”

“After everything you did to the Auroras before her, you’re lucky all she did was punch you!” Bernard snapped, arms crossed. “Not to mention the fact you destroyed her house in an attempt to kill her.”

Jack gasped in faux shock. “What, me? I…I would never—!”

“Jack.” Mother Nature reprimanded sharply. “You don’t have to give her the power. It was never yours to begin with.”

She outstretched a hand and, as easily as turning on a faucet, the power he’d been given, the magical, dancing light, was siphoned out of him and floated straight into you. Your feet lifted from the ground, head tilting back as your body slowly rose from the floor, power greater than you’d ever seen or felt ebbing and flowing around you, changing you into the thing you were always meant to become: the Aurora Borealis.

Your hair fully turned white, glimmering like fallen snow, a few stray streaks of pink and purple and teal scattered throughout. Your skin took on a subtle sparkle, every part of you becoming stronger, right down to your fingernails. Your clothes were replaced with a simple, glittering dress, the color of the night sky.

Gently, you touched down again, fully reborn.

The elves murmured and whispered in awe and you looked around to find a row of proud faces.

Mother Nature stepped forward and took both of your hands in hers, meeting you face to face for the first time in three years. “Dear one, I am so sorry for everything you’ve been through. I should have warned you, I should have done more to ready you, but I didn’t and…I let you feel alone.”

“I am alive because of you. Because you misled him. Everything you did was to protect me. I understand that now.” You told her, voice smooth and confident.

She touched her forehead to yours for a moment before pulling away to meet your gaze again. “Then, dear one, I have one last question for you.”

“I’m ready.”

“Hereby and Forevermore, your duty as the Winter Aurora is to the North Pole. You are tasked with its safety and secrets, to protect all of its residents and the magic they hold. Do you accept the Title of Winter Guardian and all of the responsibilities it holds?”

“I do.” You nodded, meeting Bernard’s eyes for a brief moment, only to find the warmest, proudest smile on his face.

“Then this belongs to you.” In her hand, Mother Nature manifested a small, elegant silver tiara, embellished with glittering snowflakes. She set it gently in your hair, completing your transformation once and for all.

Jack started sneaking towards the door, but you lifted your hand, a wave of power rushing around him, turning him back towards the rest of you and giving him a push back towards the rest of you. He stumbled forward, looking around the group nervously.

“You’re—you’re not gonna kill me, right?” He asked. “You still need me! I’m the one who oversees the snow days and-and the snowmen! Think of the snowmen!”

“We do need a Jack Frost.” Mother Nature said. “Which is why while you were here terrorizing Santa, I was locating your successor. Jack, come on in.”

The doors of the Workshop opened and in walked a much younger man with shaggy white hair. Your best guess put him in his early twenties, and his wardrobe was much more modern than the other Jack’s as well, a blue hoodie adorned with silver swirls. He carried a large stick with a curve at the end of it, somewhat resembling a scythe.

“Nice to meet you.” He waved casually, leaning against his stick.

“My successor?” Jack’s eyebrows shot up. “You’re firing me?!”

“Oh, we’re doing more than firing you.” Tooth chuckled. He looked to you. “Aurora, what do you think we should do with him?”

“He needs to be put…somewhere he can’t hurt anyone else.” You decided. You turned to the Head Elf and he perked up, interested to hear your suggestion. “Do you have a snow globe I could borrow?”

He grinned and reached into his satchel, pulling out a fresh one. “I like the way you think.”

“What? No! You can’t just—” Jack shook his head, looking to Santa, to Mother Nature, to even Mrs. Claus for some other solution.

“This is for all of the Auroras before me, for the elves you brainwashed and the reindeer you stuck in a petting zoo. You’ll have lots of time to think about what you’ve done. And maybe someday, in five hundred years or so, I’ll let you go live a boring human life.” You told him, taking the snow globe from Bernard and focusing.

There was a bright flash of sparkles and then it was done, Jack was trapped in the confines of the little snow globe in your hands and he looked very angry about it, but his complaints were too muffled to make them out clearly. Santa reached for the snow globe, so you handed it to him and he gave it an amused swirl.

“Well done, (Y/N).” He complimented, passing the snow globe to Curtis. “See to it that this gets locked away properly.”

“Will do, Santa.” Curtis nodded and headed off.

“Now, (Y/N), if you are going to be staying here, I suppose someone will have to show you around the place.” Santa smiled knowingly.

Bernard cleared his throat. “I believe that would be my responsibility as Head Elf, Santa.”

“Yes, I believe it would.”

The Head Elf offered you his arm and you gladly took it, letting him escort you up the stairs of the workshop and down the hall so the two of you could have a private moment. As soon as you were out of sight, he turned to face you, his hands cupping your cheeks, nose brushing against yours.

“See, I knew you were more of a Winter.”

“Do I look okay?”

“You’ve never looked better.” He murmured, closing the distance between you and pressing his lips to yours passionately. In your Mortal life, you’d had your fair share of kisses, but kissing Bernard was something else entirely. He was experienced, that was for sure.

After what felt like an eternity, he pulled away, resting his forehead against yours. “Now, where would you like to explore first?”

***

Bernard took you around the Workshop, showing you all of the departments, which were full of elves, all of them working hard to ensure Santa was on schedule to leave that night. Bernard checked in with each of them as he did, making sure everything was going according to plan. Tooth and Mother Nature had stuck around to help out, and some of the other Legendary Figures had arrived as well, introducing themselves to you when you came around.

Finally, as the end of your tour, Bernard led you to an ornate set of stained glass double doors. As if by magic, they swung open when you approached, giving way to a beautiful bedroom, tall, arched ceilings, dancing Northern Lights projected across them. Stained glass windows, a large, wooden desk, hardwood floors and shelves and shelves of books. There was a carved armoire in the corner of the room, and against the leftmost wall, on a platform, was a giant canopy bed.

“This is the Aurora’s suite. You can decorate however you’d like. I had some elves from the interior design department get it fixed up for you.” Bernard explained, your arm looped through his, hand resting on his bicep. “If you’ll turn your attention right over here…”

He led you to the desk, dropping your arm and plucking something off of the desk. Your snow globe! The one he had given you three years before, still inscribed with those famous words that had started your entire adventure to begin with, the last remnant you had from this life before it was ripped away from you.

“My snow globe! How did you get it here?”

He shrugged, handing it to you. “My magic came back. Which means I can give this back to you.”

Bernard lifted his hand and you pressed yours against it, palm to palm. Gently, your power flowed from him back into you, a light breeze blowing through the room. He brushed your hair away from your face and pressed a long kiss to your cheek.

“There’s still a lot to do, but…I think we’re going to be able to pull everything together by tonight.”

“Well then you better get out there, Mr. Head Elf.” You smirked, pressing a kiss to the corner of his lips.

He met your eyes, “You’ll be okay?”

“I’m going to be just fine.” You assured him, setting the snow globe back on the desk so you could rest your arms on his shoulders, his hands resting on your waist. “And after, you and I will have all the time in the world to figure this out.”

“Oh! I didn’t mean to interrupt…” Curtis muttered, standing in the doorway.

“Curtis!” Bernard exclaimed, his voice cracking.

You giggled when he abruptly pulled away to face his number two.

“The tree topper department needs an extra set of hands.” Curtis said, motioning back towards the workshop.

“Can I help?” You asked.

“Oh, Aurora, you don’t have to—” Curtis shook his head.

“Yeah, but…can I?” You asked, eyes curious.

Curtis grinned. “Yeah, of course.” He made eye contact with Bernard. “I like her already.”

Bernard gave you a nudge. “I do too.”

***

At Santa’s request, you met him and Bernard at the stable gates to see him off for your very first Christmas as the North Pole’s Guardian. Your heart was racing. You didn’t know what was expected of you or what you’d have to do, but Bernard was there, his smile ever so reassuring.

Some of the elves that worked with the reindeer helped get them all properly harnessed and ready for the flight, carefully attaching their reins to the sleigh. Bernard walked you through what you’d have to do. As one of the oldest elves in the Pole, he remembered the process well.

“It’s easy. All you’ll have to do is raise your hand.” He was standing right behind you and raised your hand with his own, positioning it just so. “And lower the barrier so Santa can leave. And if you can’t, we have controls for that now. It’s…mostly ceremonial at this point.”

“Well that does make me feel a little better.” You smiled, turning towards him.

“And, um, after, I think you should…check the armoire in your room. I left something for you.”

“Oh you did, did you?”

“Something for the party. You don’t have to wear it, though.” He shrugged awkwardly, cheeks extra rosy.

“And the party starts…?”

“The minute Santa gets back.” Bernard explained. “And then we get three months off and pick back up in March.”

“Alright.” You nodded, smiling. “Plenty of time for you to show me the ropes.”

“I was thinking exactly the same thing.” He smiled, looking both ways, but not risking a kiss, not with all of the elves assembled to send Santa off.

“Everything ready?” Scott checked, donning his famed coat and hat for the flight just as a few elves loaded the famous gift bag, filled to the brim and then some, onto the back of the sleigh.

“All set, Santa.” Bernard nodded.

Scott put a hand on your shoulder, the other on Bernard’s. “We owe this Christmas to you two. Wouldn’t be standing here without either of you.”

“All in a day’s work, Santa.” You smiled.

“I’ll see you when I get back. And then the real fun begins.”

“I’ll see to it that we have enough eggnog at the ready.” Bernard replied with a wink, which Santa laughed at.

“Excellent.” He climbed into the sleigh and gave you the signal.

Just as you’d practiced, you lifted a hand and focused on the barrier protecting the Pole, made of the same magic that flowed through your veins. Effortlessly, the veil parted, making way for Santa’s sleigh and the elves erupted into cheers as Scott flew off into the sky. Bernard cheered loudly, turning to you and scooping you up in his arms, spinning you around in his excitement. You squealed with laughter.

Once your feet were on the ground again, you met his eyes briefly before pressing the quickest of kisses to his cheek and walking over to Carol, who was smiling a proud, maternal smile.

“Let’s get you ready for that party, huh?” She asked, looping her arm around yours. “You’ll have to fill me in on everything you’ve been up to! It’s nice to have a human-ish woman around here again.”

“I missed you, Carol.”

“I missed you too, hon.”

***

The deliveries went on without a hitch and Scott was back at the Pole faster than you could sing the Twelve Days of Christmas. Carol, you, and Betty had gone into your room to prepare. Carol did your hair, perching your snowflake tiara perfectly atop your head. You felt like a princess.

Betty helped zip up the dress Bernard had left for you, an elegant silver gown with a layered skirt, a tasteful slit up the leg, and off the shoulder sleeves, a layer of tule on top that was embellished with silver stars.

“You look stunning.” Carol complimented, resting her chin on your shoulder as the two of you admired your reflection.

“Thanks to you.” You tilted your head. “I’m still getting used to the hair, but…I think it looks nice like this.”

“Makes you look like a superhero.”

“I kinda feel like one, too.”

“Well you should. Scott told me everything that happened. I’m glad you were there to help.”

“I’m glad I was, too.” You said, pausing before asking, “So…theoretically speaking of course, is there a rule prohibiting the Aurora from…dating?”

Betty gasped, smiling. “I knew it! You and Bernard—”

“You and Bernard?”  Carol asked, interested. “I never would have guessed.”

“Never?”

“Well, maybe a little.” She admitted, pinching her fingers together. “Saving the world together is a very romantic first date.”

“So…I am allowed to…date him?” You asked, earning a giggle from Betty.

“There is nothing, to my knowledge, prohibiting either the Aurora or the Head Elf from falling in love,” she reported. “But I can check the handbook if you want me too.”

“That is good to know.” You tapped your temple, laughing a bit.

Downstairs, you could hear the music pick up and the three of you took that as your cue to join the festivities.

Soon, you were standing at the rail overlooking the Workshop floor, where Bernard was standing, chatting with Curtis, Santa, and some of the other elves. As soon as he caught sight of you, he froze, his glass of eggnog halfway to his mouth and eyes locked on you.

You smiled coyly and lifted the skirt of the gown, carefully navigating down the stairs. He ditched his glass on a cluttered table and met you at the foot of the stairs, taking your arm.

He swallowed thickly, admiring you for a long moment before murmuring, “You look beautiful, Aurora.”

“Thank you, Bernard.” You smiled, tucking your hair behind your ear. “You picked a great dress.”

“Would you like to dance?”

“I’d love to.” You nodded, letting him lead you over to where the rest of the elves were paired up, swaying to a slow song. Your arms settled around his neck as he tugged you closer, a hand on your waist, the other finding your free hand.

It was clear in seconds that he knew how to dance, as he expertly spun you out and then back into him with ease, his chest flush against yours, mouth right against your ear. It was one of those moments you were forced to remember he’d lived a hundred lifetimes. He carried them well; he always had.

When the music picked back up, he said, “Let’s go get some air.”

You nodded, letting him lead you back up the stairs to the railing, where a few stray elves were also hanging out, getting some space from the heat of the party. The two of you leaned against the metal, looking down over your new home.

You were quiet for a long while before finally asking the question that had been on your mind since early that morning, in an airplane in another timeline. “Did you know her? The other Aurora?”

He nodded, face serious. “I knew her, yeah. I wasn’t Head Elf at the time, only second in command. She and I were acquaintances, but she was nice.”

“Mmm.” You hummed.

Bernard reached over and touched your hand. “I much prefer what you and I have this time around.”

“And what is it you and I have?” You asked.

“I’m…not sure yet.” Bernard shook his head, tugging you ever so closer, a gentle hand on your waist. “But I do know that in all of my 1600 years, I’ve never felt like this before. Even before, when you left, when I thought I’d never see you again, I was waiting for the day our paths would cross. I wish it had been under better circumstances, but…”

“But, I’m glad you found me.” You interjected, taking another step forward and resting your head on his shoulder.

Bernard leaned in to kiss you, but stopped, noticing all the elves watching. However, when you pointed straight up at a bundle of glowing mistletoe, he knew there was only one thing he could do…

THREE MONTHS LATER

“Ladies, thank you so much for agreeing to meet here at the Pole.” Mother Nature smiled at each of you, seated at the large round table in your office, which was, coincidentally, right down the hall from Bernard’s office.

Around the table were yourself, Mother Nature, and the three other Guardian Spirits, Briar Flores, Amber Sanderson, and Evangeline Cho, each of you dressed for your respective season, but Briar was absolutely glowing, as though a halo of light was positioned just behind her head at all times.

“Thank you for having us, (Y/N).” Briar thanked, bowing her head. “My place is absolutely a mess at the moment. Bunny has paint on just about every surface in the building.”

“Any time, Briar. This place has been quiet since the elves started their break. Things should be getting started up again soon, though.”

“If you need any help saving Christmas this year, you let us know.” Amber chuckled.

“Knock on wood Christmas doesn’t need saving this year.” You laughed, knocking on the table.

“I am serious, though, as soon as Easter is over, we all need to get mimosas and brunch. There is this lovely little island that is just so flowery and perfect this time of year, you’d all love it.” Briar beamed.

The rest of you murmured and nodded in agreement, stopping only when Evangeline looked up at the doorway, biting back a grin.

You looked up to see Bernard standing there, a bouquet of snowdrops in his hand.

“Hello, Bernard. How can I help you?”

“Oh, Aurora, I didn’t mean to interrupt. The guys in foliage need a second opinion when you have a minute.”

“Right, of course.” You nodded, looking to Mother Nature.

“Meeting adjourned. I’ll see you all next month for a progress report.” She smiled, straightening up her papers. The rest of you all stood up from the table and began to exit the office.

Mother Nature rested a hand on your shoulder, glancing back at Bernard. “You look really happy here, (Y/N).”

“I am really happy here.”

“Good, I’m glad.” She gave your shoulder a squeeze. “I’ll see you next month.”

Once the others had scattered to the winds, Bernard walked into the office, closing the door behind him.

You quirked an eyebrow. “The guys in foliage, huh?”

“Partially. Partially just the Head Elf wanting to make sure his Aurora had something pretty to look at.” He whispered, an arm drawing you closer for a kiss that you gladly reciprocated.

“Your Aurora already has something pretty to look at.” You replied, a finger booping the end of his nose.

He shook his head, grinning. “Does the flirting never cease?” “Check in with me in a few hundred years.” You replied, setting the snowdrops in your vase before lacing your fingers through his, your other hand rising to rest on his arm as you walked out of the office and towards the large room you’d been using to train your powers. “Now, where were we with those lessons…?”

Tagged: @madameggroll, @capamericant, @midnightmisses, @five-hargreeves-apologist

[jhughesangel]

YOU GUYS!! i decided to get over myself and just write something super quick! i’m actually so nervous about this so if it’s bad let me know that this is NOT for me hahaha. anyways i did not proof read this because it was embarrassing to go back and try to read it. let me know what you think!!!! if i like writing i’ll will most likely make a new blog for it! also don’t mind the formatting i will figure it out one day. xoxoxo

Three times luke shows yn he loves her and the one time he finally says it.

One

luke walked quietly into his room after morning skate and smiled seeing yn snuggled into his side of the bed. he smiled to himself and walked over to her “hi lukey” she mumbled “hi pretty baby” he took her hand into his and kissed it. “i saw these on my way home and they made me think of you” yn smiled and looked at the bouquet of pink roses luke was holding. “thank you lukey they are beautiful” she said blushing. “they made me think of you” luke replied kissing her head softly. “i’ll put these in water and then we can nap” yn nodded watching luke walk out of the room. she couldn’t help but smile at the thought of luke thinking of her.

two

yn’s eyes hurt from studying for more than two hours. she sighed resting her head on top of her open text book. “baby you’re still out here?” luke questioned as he strolled into the living room rubbing his eyes of sleep. yn nodded and didn’t say anything. “it’s late baby why don’t we go to bed?” luke walked towards the table and put his hands on her shoulders “no luke i can’t. i need to pass this test” “i know baby but-“ “NO LUKE!” she snapped at him “you don’t get it luke you aren’t in school anymore” she said rolling her eyes “yn i wasn’t trying to upset you” luke said backing away from the table. yn suddenly felt extremely guilty watching her sweet boy back away from her “no lukey i’m sorry i didn’t mean to snap at you. you have every right to be upset with me” she had tears in her eyes as she said it. luke shook his head and grabbed her text book closing it “baby i’ll never be upset with you. you work so hard and i want you to know i’m here for you. let’s go to bed okay?” luke gently grabbed her arm helping her out of the chair and walking her into his room.

three

yn listened to the buzz of the crowd at the rock. it was the first game of the season that she finally could attend being so busy with work and school. she looked at her friend who sat next to her “i’m a little nervous” she said quietly. “why?” her friend asked making a confused face. “it’s just me and luke aren’t really public yet and what if someone figures it out?” “do you not want anyone to know?” her friend questioned her. “i do i’m just not sure luke does” yn’s friend was about to respond but she was interrupted with the devils being announced. the game was tied in the third period and yn watched anxiously as luke skated through with the puck and shot it right into the back of the net she jumped up to her feet and cheered. luke quickly skated over tapping his heart and then point directly at her before going back to the game. yn blushed as the people around her cheered. “i don’t think you have to worry about luke not wanting anyone to know” her friend said wrapping an arm around yn’s shoulder.

+one

yn was standing in front of the mirror while luke zipped the back of her dress for her. “there all done baby” he smiled kissing the back of her head. “thank you lukey” she said making eye contact with him through the mirror. “you look absolutely beautiful” she blushed “stop it” she said shyly “i’m serious you look beautiful and i can’t wait for the team to meet you” luke said. tonight was an event for the devils and this was yn’s first time meeting everyone “i’m so nervous” she said turning around to face him. she wrapped her arms around his neck and luke pulled her closer by her waist. “nothing to be nervous about angel. they will love you because i love you” yn looked up at him and smiled “you love me?” luke nodded “more than anything” he said bending down to kiss her “i love you too lukey i’m so thankful for you” she said pressing her lips to his.

[dreamyelectronicmusic]

Aaah I missed you were asking for drabbles! Honestly I think you would do an amazing job on all of them but I was thinking value me? Or quiet me or tell me or unbind me? Hahaha ok so I couldn’t choose

have a great day!

Thank you so much! I went with your first choice and picked "value me" so I could write a scene from a wip that's unlikely to see the light of day in full. For context, Wille and Simon have been broken up for five years, then some things happen and when they see each other again, it takes them approximately 0.5 seconds to fall into bed together.

I hope you have a great day too!

------------------------

Wille brushed a sweaty curl from Simon’s forehead, letting his fingers run along his hairline and down his jaw. Simon’s eyelashes fluttered at the touch as they lay facing each other, their breathing slowly getting back to normal. He returned Wille’s gaze, seemingly equally unwilling to look away, searching Wille’s face for evidence of the years gone by. He was so beautiful. For what felt like the millionth time today, Wille wondered if Simon had become even more beautiful in time they’d been apart. He wanted to remember him like this, flushed and glowing from the pleasure they’d shared and looking at Wille like he was the only real thing in the world.

All too soon, though, his face grew sombre as Wille had known it would, and he flopped on his back to stare at the ceiling, Wille’s hand sliding off his face and falling empty on the pillow.

“What are we doing here, Wille?” he asked.

Wille hadn’t expected today to go the way it had, hadn’t imagined he’d ever end up sharing a bed with Simon again, but he knew the answer to the question.

“That’s up to you,” he said softly. “I’ll respect your decision.”

Simon exhaled through his nose, shaking his head minutely. “What does that mean?”

Wille briefly considered mirroring Simon’s position and lying on his back, wondering if it would be easier to talk about this like that. But he couldn’t bring himself to move. He wanted to keep looking, for as long as he could.

“I would very much like to have you in my life again, Simon,” he said, grateful to find his voice didn’t shake. “In whatever capacity you’re comfortable with. As friends or acquaintances or…” His mouth refused to form the words casual hookup, knowing too well nothing involving Simon could ever be casual for him. “... or whatever you want. But I don’t want to cause you any more pain or complicate your life. I’ll understand if you just want me to go and leave you alone again.”

Simon was quiet for a moment, blinking up at the ceiling. He ran his hand over his face, sighed. “I think I ruined our chances of being friends when I jumped your bones the moment you walked in,” he said with a strained little chuckle. “I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have– I wasn’t thinking.”

“You promised you wouldn’t regret it,” Wille blurted. It wasn’t strictly speaking true. What Simon had said, when Wille had stilled his hand on his belt buckle and asked him not to do anything he’d end up regretting, fully aware he couldn’t ever say no to Simon, was I have never regretted a single thing that happened between us.

That was the only thing that mattered to Wille. He would do anything, but he didn’t want to be Simon’s bad decision.

Simon turned his head to look at him, then turned his whole body, scooting closer. “I don’t,” he murmured. He lifted a hand and stroked the side of Wille’s face the way Wille had touched him earlier, so exquisitely tender Wille felt like his heart was going to shatter. He was powerless against the urge to lean his cheek into the touch. “I don’t. But I’m – I don’t know if I can –” Simon sighed. “I don’t want to hurt you, either.”

Wille smiled softly. His kind, caring Simon. (Well, not his. But his anyway. Always his.) “Please don’t worry about that,” he said. “I promise I’m not getting my hopes up. I meant what I said. Whatever you want is fine. Anything or nothing. I’ll always be grateful that I got to spend a little more time with you, but you have to do what’s right for you.” He swallowed the lump in his throat. “All I want is for you to be happy, and I know that wasn’t so easy with me around.” It was a hard thing to say but it was true, and not much about their circumstances had changed in any meaningful way. 

Simon squeezed his eyes shut for a moment, a droplet of moisture clinging to his lashes. “What about you?” he asked, sounding slightly choked. “Do you get to be happy?”

Simon’s hand was still cupping Wille’s cheek, thumb stroking gently. Wille covered his hand with his, pressing it closer while he still could.

“I get to have known you and loved you. That’s pretty much the same thing.” 

[lovelyyandereaddictionpoint]

Yandere Hashira thinking they finally claimed their darling through sexual intercourse and then the next day, darling is all like- "sorry baby, it was all just pillow talk' before dipping out

One Night Stand | Yandere Demon Slayer

You never meant for this to be more than a night but how do you tell a lion the prey they’ve been chasing wasn’t theirs when they already have it in their clutches. Its best to leave with a note or nothing at all waiting until the morn when they desperately ask with worried eyes. Don’t be surprised when they scratch back for such a cruel attempt to escape:

Sanemi Shinagazawa

“Heh!? Who do you think I AM?!”

Is the type to appear to your home or workplace later

And by the time you shut the door or demand he be removed

He’s horrified when he realizes you think that you both aren’t meant to be forever

He’ll have to take you the hard way then

Shouldering the painful stupid words

You can think that meant nothing all you want its completely wrong though

Shinobu Kocho

“That’s where you’re mistaken.”

It’s a wonder that you got up before her

But in all honesty you’d probably never make it to the door before she debilitates you

A syringe to the neck, or not enough iron

You’re too inebriated to walk away from her

Since your a bit confused she’ll steer you the right way

Because you are most definitely staying together forever

Kyojuro Rengoku

“HAHAHA VERY FUNNY! NOW LETS CONTINUE INTERCOURSE!”

Nice try

He has a fiery passion that can’t be beat

And his strength and speed will stop you from carrying out your stupid prank

Surely you’d like to keep your fiance happy 

Gyomei Himejima

“....Did you hit your head, love?”

He might be blind but that doesn’t mean he’s no less capable of keeping you within his home

He wonders where someone as small as you got such a bizarre idea

No matter you’re like a mouse compared to him

His beloved misguided little mouse 

He just doesn’t want you getting hurt because you’re just so silly

Giyuu Tomioka

“That’s not true. We’re in love.”

Say what you want he’s not convinced

Showing up to your workplace with a boxed lunch

Or joining you in your home as you do your chores

He’s insistent that you are his 

And your frightened colleagues will agree

Uzui Tengen

“Ahahaahaha what a flamboyantly inspired joke!” 

What are you even saying

Didn’t you know that you’re engaged to him and his wives

They all remember the day you accepted their proposal

And so do their friends

So really the one who’s taking this joke too far is you

But if you feel so inclined to fight this

Uzui has no problem tossing you over his shoulder 

Iguro Obanai

“Kabumaru…said you left come morning. Where did you think you were going.”

He’s not playing this game

And he probably expected such a reaction

Especially after you’ve seen his face 

But you’ll have to endure this 

After all he’s the only one who knows your worth and has the capabilities to protect you

Mitsuri Kanroji

“W-what?! Y-you’re j-joking right?”

You’re so mean 

Making her feel like you were trying to run away

How cruel

But she gets it you just did it so you could feel her intense love hugs

Don’t cry about your sprained arm

She’s not mad at all 

[gay-wh0re-slut]

Hello! Can I please request a NSFW Rhea/reader where reader has had a massive crush on Rhea for awhile and Rhea has noticed and constantly flirts with the reader (who doesn’t think Rhea is being serious). One day when they find themselves alone in the locker room Rhea corners reader and basically asks why the reader hasn’t ever done anything about the massive crush they obviously have on Rhea. Reader mumbles something about how she knows Rhea wasn’t being serious with all her flirting, so Rhea proceeds to show reader just how serious she is?

I swear, dominant Rhea is the woman of my DREAMS. No worries at all if you don’t like this request. Thanks for hearing me out!

i can already tell that this is gonna be a long one so buckle up friends lmaoooo but no legit, rhea could do literally anything and i’ll go feral

i have a feeling that this is gonna be a bit angsty too so hold on to your boot straps hahaha

Prove it

CW: angst-ish, a little degradation/praise, fingering

Your headset was filled with the chatters of other PA’s and crew members questioning about this and that or genuine small talk. While you have worked for WWE for quite sometime, only just recently have you started working on Raw. It was a good change of pace for you, it was very similar to Smackdown but everything was red and obviously the wrestlers were different. You never thought that you would make friends so quickly considering how hard it was before. One friend in particular you hoped, maybe one day, would be more than a friend: Mami herself, Rhea Ripley.

“Hey, baby,” she would say every time she saw you.

“Heyyyy,” you would reply with a wink. I don’t think she even knows my name, to be honest.

The crew would always say that she was genuinely flirting with you, but you never believed them because she would flirt with Samantha and Cathy all the time so you thought you were just another one of her many girlfriends. But they kept on insisting, “she’s not like that with anyone else on the crew,” or “she’s flirting with them for the camera, there’s no camera’s when she’s with you.” But, you kept brushing it off, hopelessly daydreaming.

Often, Rhea would hang around you backstage asking questions about you and other meaningless things, or she would request that you sit beside her as she gets her makeup done just so she could have someone to talk to. She was known to have done this with other crew members because even though she was mean on the screen, backstage she was the biggest sweetheart and genuinely wanted to get to know everyone. Because of this, you boiled it down to being one of her close work friends and nothing more, unfortunately.

After a show one Monday, you notice that the tattooed woman was no where to be found. They usually have to sign out to let the crew know that they left, but she never signed. So you begin searching.

You ask around and a lot of people didn’t know, some said she was in her dressing room, some said that she left and forgot to sign out, she never does that. You thought that she just went to her car to get something and she’ll be right back. After a while of walking aimlessly around the arena searching for who knows how long, you decide to get her number from Bianca, which she gave you an all-knowing smirk followed by, “surprised you don’t have it yet.” You nervously laugh it off as you say goodbye to her for the night.

You struggle to find something witty to say or a flirty joke. Sadly nothing comes to mind when you realize you’ve been staring at your phone for a solid minute before deciding to go with something casual.

“Hey, it’s (Your/Name)! Just wanted to check in on ya and see where you were. You didn’t sign out yet so I’m hoping you’re still around?” you text her.

“Damn. I guess I missed the opportunity to give you my number using a bad pick up line,” she responded immediately. So she does know my name.

“Haha, I asked Bianca for it, hope you don’t mind.”

“Not at all. She couldn’t deliver the line as good as me anyway.”

“Then I have to hear it.”

“It’s better in person, and unfortunately for you, I did leave without signing out accidentally, had a lot on my mind tonight.”

“Damn, that’s okay. I’ll sign out for you then, no biggie,” no biggie? are you serious, who says that?

“Thank you! I owe you one for sure. I’ll bring you Starbucks on Sunday before PR stuff.”

“You really don’t have to, it’s really not a big deal.”

“Oh please, you’re too good to not be praised.”

Calm. Down.

“I try,” God, I suck at flirting, “but anyway, I hope you get some rest, you deserve it.”

“We’ll see what happens. See you soon, love!”

Butterflies were completely alive in your stomach when you read those last words. You couldn’t help the blush forming on your face to cause another crew member to ask you what you’re smiling at so hard. You tell them it was a funny post that a friend sent and they seemed to believe you. You shoved your phone in your back pocket and went on with your nightly duties, cleaning up after everyone, making sure nothing was left behind. Though Raw was on Monday’s, there was always so much to do during the week before the show. Obviously you had to travel, but it took about a day or two to set up the ring and LED walls, lights and other things necessary for the show to run smoothly.

The rest of the week went by quickly, thankfully. You and Rhea had been texting quite literally nonstop, asking about this and that, sometimes talking about nothing just so that you could text each other. You’d send memes and pictures of your animals with the same in return. You kept trying to flirt with her through text and she seemed to flirt back but you were never good about wooing a woman, they always did it to you. Something about a dominant woman really got your gears grinding, and Rhea happened to be just that.

Sunday came and you woke in the hotel room, groggy but another day, another dollar. You showered and got ready for the day in about an hour. You didn’t have to wear your normal uniform today since no cameras were being live-streamed everywhere. Once you arrived, you checked yourself in at the arena showing your badge to the security, grabbing your headset and headed to your station. You stood at the door making sure everyone signed in, this was your usual job on Sunday’s. It was easy and fun to chat with the Pros of the day before they got in their gear for shooting some extras.

Whispers began as the buff goth woman walked towards you with two coffee’s in her hand, “Hey baby!” she said as per usual.

“Heyyyy!” the butterflies were definitely fluttering.

“I said I owed you so here you go,” she handed you the drink.

“I completely forgot! Thank you!” You took a sip and hummed at the delicious brew.

“Anything for you,” she winked. She signed in and went on her way.

You heard the faint giggling of your coworkers behind you. You threw them a look and they scurried away still giggling. Rolling your eyes, you check that everyone has made it on time and began the rest of your work day.

It wasn’t too long of a day but what made it seem like forever was that Rhea wasn’t texting you. Time flew by for you when you were talking to her, like nothing else mattered. You kept checking your phone to see if she had any time to send you something, anything but no luck.

A few hours have passed and you realized you hadn’t eaten anything all day, so you head to the snack table. All kinds of fruits, vegetables, candy and other things of that nature stared back at you. Nothing seemed appealing you were so hungry so you opted for an apple.

“Hey sweet cheeks,” an australian accent said behind you.

You turn around with a smile, “Hey! What’s up?”

“I was wondering if you wanted to eat lunch with me?” Her arms crossed as she leaned on the wall beside her with her foot crossed over the other with her icy blue eyes scanning up and down your body.

You couldn’t help but shiver, how long has she been standing there, “sure! What do you suggest?”

“Come to the locker room in a few and we’ll figure it out from there, I have one more thing to finish,” she began to walk towards you.

Your heart beat faster, your breath was slowly leaving your lungs, calm down, breathe. The tattooed hand lands itself on your shoulder before sliding down your arm as she gives you a gentle smile. She snatched the apple out of your hand and takes a bite, the whole time she kept eye contact with you. Chewing away, she gave you an apple filled grin and handed back the apple.

“S-sure,” You force out, taking back the fruit.

“Great! I’ll be waiting,” she walks off behind you with the sound of her boots trailing off.

I’m so down bad, it’s embarrassing.

The time finally came but you were frozen just outside of the locker room. Everyone else had already left for lunch saying bye to you on their way out, so you were just left there, standing, shaking, trying muster up any confidence possible to just walk inside.

Your foot barely left the floor when the buff woman came out, “there you are, took you long enough. C’mon.”

You stumble your way in, watching her go back to what she was doing.

After a few seconds of silence, “Please, sit. You’re making me nervous,” she laughs, putting the last few items of her things in a bag.

You do as your told.

She sits down in front of you, “What do you want to eat? My treat!” She leans back making herself comfortable, which apparently includes manspreading.

You, you thought, “I’m down for whatever,” you say instead.

“Oh, c’mon, there isn’t anything your craving?”

You try your best to not stare at her legs that are wide open in front of you where you could easily get on your knees and-

“Hey,” she waves a hand in front of you, “you good, babe?”

“W-what? Oh…yeah, sorry,” your face begins to feel hot, “what was the question?”

“I asked if you wanted to fuck,” she said, incredibly serious.

Your eyes widened as you choked on air.

“You’re so funny when you’re nervous,” she laughs, “I asked what you wanted for lunch.”

“Nervous? Who said I was nervous?” you laugh…nervously.

“Uh huh,” she leans forward on her elbows resting on her knees, “maybe the fact that you tense up when I’m around, or the fact that you’d stumble your words when we talk or the fact that you stood outside the locker room for five minutes before I basically had to drag you in here,” she leaned back into her previous position, “maybe, that.”

Your face was now fully red, “I-”

“Admit it, (y/n),” she leans forward once more, licked her lips followed by biting her bottom lip as her eyes fell to your mouth then back up to your eyes, “You… have a crush on me.”

No words could form in your head to make a coherent thought. You sat there, beet red, mouth agape, staring at the wrestler inches, if not centimeters, front of you.

She reached out to close your mouth gently, but held your chin for longer than was definitely necessary. “Don’t worry,” her hand pulls you into her as she closes the gap between you, kissing you, “I like you too,” she admits.

“There’s no way,” you push back, “you can’t.”

She was surprised at your response, “what do you mean I can’t.”

“I mean,” you struggle to find the words but they come anyway, “you’re… you! Rhea Ripley, Mami, the one everyone either wants to be or be with. You’re so…attractive and cool and buff and…and hot! There’s no way YOU have a crush on ME. Out of all the people in the world, you like me? There’s no way…no way!” You stand and start pacing around the chair.

She rolls her eyes, “listen I know I flirt with a lot of people here but I’ve never thought of kissing them for the fun of it.”

You stop in your tracks, contemplating, then, “exactly you flirt with everyone so how was I supposed to know that this was any different until now,” you start pacing again.

She huffs and stands to walk in front of you. She grabs your face, this time with both hands pulling you in for another kiss. She held this for much longer than last time and of course you kissed her back. She finally lets go but is still holding your face in fear of you pacing again, “does that prove it?”

You hesitate, looking up at her helplessly, “I don’t know, do it again.” Where the confidence suddenly came from, you had no clue but you couldn’t stop now.

She smiled as her eyes beamed with hunger. She kisses you once more, but this time was different. Your lips moved against hers like they were meant to be, your hands found their way to her waist pulling her in closer. Her hands became tangled in your hair as you thank your past self for not putting it up like usual.

“How about that?” she breathes heavily.

“Hmm,” you tap your chin jokingly, “I still don’t believe you. Can you try something else?”

Her face scrunched with confusion for a split second before she caught your drift, “getting cheeky are we?” she smiles.

In one quick motion, she picks you up with a yelp escaping you, wrapping your legs around her hips as she starts to kiss you again. It was only a few steps before she reached the couch and practically slammed you down on your back with her on top of you.

She grew a face of concern, “Oh, shit, sorry that was a bit rough, you okay?”

“Don’t worry about being too rough,” said the mysterious confidence.

She cocked an eyebrow before her evil grin finally came into play, “Don’t tell me that,” she admits.

“Please,” your voice was shaky, “do literally whatever you want to me,” you held her face to make sure she knew you were serious, “please fuck me into oblivion.”

“Who knew the nice girl would be such a slut,” she finally turned on her dominant side.

Your underwear was already soaked from the second she spread her legs in front of you, but hearing her call you a slut could’ve sent you over the edge right then but you needed to hold off so you could savor the moment.

“God, yes,” you groan.

With that she forcefully kisses you once more. Your legs still wrapped around her, she sits up breaking them apart, staring hungrily trying to decide what to do with you. You take the opportunity to throw your headset to the floor after quickly turning it off. She readjusts herself, then heads back down to begin kissing and nipping at your neck. Small moans fall from your lips as she smiles into every new kiss from hearing you. When she starts to head back up to your chin, her hand finds its way under your waistband, thank god I wore yoga pants, you thought.

Her hand was slowly creeping its way into your underwear. Your hands were anywhere they could go, her hair, her neck, her back, her arms as she was back to kissing you, roughly. Finally reaching your hot center, she moans into your mouth, “damn baby. Is this all because of me?” she runs her fingers through your wet folds.

“Mhmm,” you whimper, bucking your hips at the new sensation.

“I should’ve said something sooner,” she begins to draw small circles over your clit.

“Y-yes,” you struggle to speak.

She hums in response quickening her pace before going back to kissing your neck. Your back arched as she ran her fingers through your wetness once more, moaning in the process.

A few more circles were drawn and you were becoming desperate for more and quickly. You sneak your hand to meet hers inside your pants, moving her hand to push her fingers inside of you. She understands and does it just right.

“Fuck,” slips out of you.

“You’re so desperate,” she growls slowly moving two fingers as far into you as possible.

“God yes,” you whine as she begins to slowly pump in and out of you causing more moans to fall from your mouth.

“If only I knew you were such a slut, I would’ve fucked you much sooner,” she admits. Her pace quickens, “I mean look at you, squirming under me, such a pretty sight.”

You couldn’t fathom any words. Literally nothing came to mind other than, “holy fuck,” which you didn’t say consciously.

“I can tell your close, baby,” she was right, “don’t hold back.”

By now, she was fucking you so hard you felt your titties bouncing and her eyes on them. You couldn’t help but smile at her wickedly. You grabbed her face forcefully pulling it in for more kissing so that the noises that were about to escape you, wouldn’t be too loud in case someone walked by.

A whimper escaped every time the tattooed fingers hit inside of you. The pressure in your hips rose so quickly you couldn’t hold off if you tried.

“Yesss, that’s it baby….cum for me,” she snarled in your ear.

The wave of release finally hit you, “oh FUUCK,” as you bounced. Your back arching, loud moans were quickly softened by her mouth as she continued to fuck you through it.

She wasn’t stopping there though, “you feel so good, baby,” as she continued pumping in and out of you, “now do it again.”

You couldn’t help but moan and nod your head desperately. It didn’t take long for the pressure to build back up again, she readjusted her hand so that she was hitting your sweet spot every time she pounded into you.

“Holy fuck,” you grasp for air, “please don’t stop.”

“Wouldn’t dream of it.”

After a few more seconds of vigorous movements, you cum once more, spilling out all over her hand. Groaning louder than before as your legs began to shake and your hips jerking against her motions. Your back arched as your eyes rolled to the back of your head causing her to hold you down as best she could so you wouldn’t fall off the couch.

“Good girl,” she eased you through it, kissing every inch of your neck. She slowly removed her hand from you, bringing it up to her mouth and sucking her coated fingers clean. Your eyes widened at the sight.

“Open,” she commanded.

So you open your mouth and she sticks her fingers inside, without hesitation you sucked yourself off of her. Never in a million years did you think this would be happening, trembling under her after she just made you cum, twice in 10 minutes.

Once she decided you were done, she pulled her hand out and stood up, placing her hands on her hips. “Now do you believe me?”

You nod because you couldn’t think of anything else to say, you’re lying there, panting and helpless staring at the dark haired woman above you.

“Good. Now what do you want to eat?” she smirks.

[ask-the-royal-absol]

Felix: What?

Destino: You heard me. How long?

Felix: ...

Destino: ...

Felix: Since the evolution party. Four years ago.

Destino: You're shitting me.

Felix: It's true.

Destino: So, you fell for me when I was intoxicated. Glad to know my best friend can pick out my best traits.

Felix: It really ain’t like that. I fell for ya because ya can be funny, thoughtful when ya want ta be and ya pretty damn good-lookin’. I know who ya really are and I find that ta be what I look for in a partner. I’ve not asked yet because I know Mirage left ya in a bad place last time and I know ya didn’t want ta rush into a new relationship anytime soon. I only make a move when I see there’s interest and ya didn’t seem interested, so I haven’t gone for it.

Destino: …

Felix: I’ve gotta know if ya would consider it though.

Destino: Right now?

Felix: Yeah. If we’re layin’ everythin’ out in the open, I wanna know. I don’t wanna pursue something that ain’t gonna happen.

Destino: …

Felix: …

Felix: …

Destino: …

Felix: Thank you for tellin’ me. I’m glad ta actually hear how ya feel about it. And I promise ya not hide anythin’ from ya from now on.

Destino: You better not. I don’t want to have to demote you to friend status.

Felix: Serious, I will be. Don’t ya worry pal.

Destino: …

Felix: …

Destino: Ha, it’s funny really. You’re the ghost therapist here and I’m the one telling you to be honest and communicate. Perhaps you could learn a thing or two from me about how to communicate with another. I’m clearly excelling at it. Maybe if the whole Prime of the Underdark thing doesn’t work out, that’s what I could do next. Be a therapist.

Felix: Des, ya are the least qualified Pokémon ta do somethin’ like that.

Destino: Tauros-shit. It’d be easy. Listen to someone rant about their experiences and then say how awful they are and how they can change.

Felix: Hahaha, it’s far more complicated than that. Besides, ya barely talk ya anyone about how ya feel.

Destino: I talk about myself all the time.

Felix: Ya know what I mean. About how ya actually feel.

Destino: You think I’m just going to suddenly lay my whole life out in the open for these surface Pokémon? If those random Pokémon that keep following me around could just leave me be, I think I’d be enjoying myself a lot more up here. Why would I ever want to talk to them about private matters if they have nothing to offer?

Felix: I dunno about that.

Destino: One of them ate me. One trapped me in a bubble full of liquid and tried to drown me. One of them shaved off a good chunk of my fur and left me looking ridiculous. They clearly have so much to give.

Felix: Didn’t ya say an arbok told ya ta talk with me? That seems like good advice that he gave ya.

Destino: Considering how weird he was, I wouldn’t be surprised if that was some sort of hallucination caused by one of those Pokémon to get me to like them. The things Pokémon do to make me get on their side. I am an incredibly charming Pokémon so it’s not surprising they would use whatever methods they could to make me like them. The curse of being the most charismatic Pokémon alive.

Felix: Ya gotta admit that ya did provoke those other Pokémon though. That’s why they went through with what they did.

Destino: Are you condoning their actions?

Felix: No, but that’s why I said about pickin’ ya targets when wantin’ ta insult someone.

Destino: And it was good advice. However, have you considered that continuing to push until they react is hilarious?

Felix: There’s a part of me that wants ta hit ya when ya have the urge ta say somethin’ stupid.

Destino: You wouldn’t do that. You love me too much.

Felix: I’ve given ya fuel, haven’t I?

Destino: Perhaps.

Felix: Fuck.

Destino: Hahahaha.

…

Felix: Of course it does. Alright, night Des.

Destino: Night Felix.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

*Seems like that beauty sleep may not be happening after all.*

[kriffingstars]

johnny mactavish; t-shirt

pairing: Johnny MacTavish x Price!Reader summary: Uncle Price doesn’t know how to feel about you wearing Johnny’s t-shirt warnings: verrrrrry slight age gap (I imagine reader to be around 20, Johnny is 26), allusions to sex a/n: hahaha left you all on a cliff hanger! sorry not sorry. this series is intended to be released in non-chronological order, which allows me to write whatever i’m in the mood for. it alsoooooo allows you guys to send in requests so keep ‘em coming. prompts, lines of dialogue, non cod gifs. and once again, thank you all for your continued support! i promise i will post a continuation of found out, but i want to flesh the relationship out a little more so we can understand everyone’s reactions better, and build on the lead up to the Price/Soap confrontation

You expected the morning after to be awkward. One night stands aren’t really your thing, especially when said one night stand works with your Uncle and you already have feelings simmering beneath the surface.

Never one to disappoint, Johnny is sauntering into his bedroom with a mug of coffee and a plate of bacon and eggs. It’s not his smile or the corny, but still somehow endearing joke he makes, that causes you to laugh.

No, it’s the kiss the cook apron he’s wearing with nothing but the boxers he slipped on when he got out of bed, long before you were awake.

Once both things have been handed off to you, he’s pressing sweet kisses to your forehead before chasing after your lips.

In the sanctity of his flat, nothing else matters, it’s just the two of you, and the surprising domesticity.

“I want to take you out, proper date. Dress up and everything for you.”

He admits as you rest your head in the crook of his neck, breakfast long since finished. His hands dance innocently on the outside of your thigh, appreciating the feel of your skin on his.

“I’ve got nothing to wear,” you giggle, pressing your face further into him.

You don’t think you ever want to leave his embrace.

“I don’t mean now,” he mumbled, another kiss to your crown.

“I mean when you’re home. I’ll pick you up…want to do things properly with you.”

Now’s not the time to question about what your Uncle is going to think of it. That’s a worry for later, and whilst you’re here with Johnny you’re going to make the most of it. Leave the overthinking for when you’re back in your own bed at home.

The morning slips away far too quickly for either of you. Johnny savours every moment he can, as if this is the only chance he’ll have.

It will be for a while. Two weeks at least, until his leave is over. He knows he can’t go back to base too soon. I mean he would, but he knows you’d hate the thought of him spending any extra time in the barracks, instead of the comfort of his own home.

When it’s time to get your things packed and ready for the short flight home he chucks a t-shirt from his draw at your head, muttering about how it would be more comfortable than the smart top you were wearing yesterday.

It doesn’t really match the bottoms you have, but you think it doesn’t really matter and Johnny’s not thinking about anything other than he wants to see you in his clothes more, because you look mesmerising.

The drive to the airport isn’t that long, but it’s spent in constant conversation. By the time you’re out the car, your sides are aching from laughter, and you’re beaming at the Scot in front of you.

“Safe journey, text me when you’re home.”

And that’s all he really says as a goodbye, before letting the hand resting gently on your waist slip a little lower and connecting your lips in a sweet kiss.

It leaves you yearning for the slightest bit more, and you guess that was his intention because with one more peck to your cheek his heading back to the car, glancing as he goes and flashing you that boyish grin that lights up his whole face.

The flight is uneventful, and before you know it your bag is in the boot of your Uncle’s car as he drives you both home.

It’s uneventful, mundane conversation about how your conference was, and what he’s been up to in your absence.

Even if it is mundane, it feels like home, and you relish the time you get to spend with the man, before he’s jetting off to some country in need of him.

It’s only when you’re in the kitchen, making the both of you a brew, when Johnny comes up in the conversation.

“That’s not your t-shirt,” is what breaks your concentration from the two mugs in front of you.

“No, it’s not.”

Fuck.

You completely forgot about it, it’s not like you can pass it off as a new one of yours either.

“Put it in the wash, I can give it back to Soap when we’re back at work.”

That’s definitely not the response you were expecting. You were expecting something more chastising and another warning about leaving the man alone and not getting too invested.

“Hope he didn’t try any funny business.”

Ah, there it is.

Your Uncle is trying to be as nonchalant as possible, and had you not had a pang of guilt punch you in the gut it would be funny. The way he’s trying to casually lean on the counter in the kitchen and carefully studying your face for any sort of micro reaction.

As good as John is at his job, when it comes to you, he can never read you quite right. Sure he can tell when you’re happy, sad and anything in between, but what irks him the most is that her can never tell when you’re lying.

Maybe it’s because your tells are exactly the same as his, and recognising that is that bit harder. Either that or you’re just as good a liar as him.

So he misses the brief flash of panic before you plaster a smile on your face, recounting how he was the perfect gentleman, and even slept on the sofa and gave his room up for you.

“I’d expect nothing less,” He surmises, as he accepts the tea from you.

He doesn’t even bat an eyelid when your phone doesn’t stop buzzing all evening, a quick, “It’s just Georgie, from uni. Wants to know all about the conference. She’s gutted she couldn’t go.” settles any doubt he had.

Of course it’s not Georgie, it’s the man he warned you about.

The rest of John’s evening, once you’ve gone off to bed, is spent sat on the sofa, catching up on the episodes of bake-off he’s missed over the last few weeks.

It’s nice, and it’s the perfect monotonous activity to tune his mind off from the ruckus that usually follows him.

It’s not long before he’s padding out to the stable door the leads to the back garden, and swinging the top open before lighting the cigar hanging from his mouth. No use letting all the warm air out.

Thanks for looking after her. Appreciate it, mate.

It’s intended as a genuine thank you, and also a subtle reminder of the conversation they had when Soap first met you.

His phone chimes with Soap’s reply.

All good mate, anytime.

Taglist: (please let me know if you’d like to be added, all requests from my taglist will get priority)

@cassiecasluciluce @misshoneypaper @unknownduck0 @iwannabealocalcryptid @darkangel4121 @clear-your-mind-and-dream @mothiing @pepsicolacoochie @samanthamarkle92

[fir3ylolol]

Hello :) I saw your requests are open and wanted to request MK1 Raiden/reader where she works at Madam Bo's and he frequents Madam Bo's just to see her. And then he finally works the courage to ask her out? Turns out she's also been eyeing him everytime he visits. They share a first kiss on the date too. Can get smutty if you want I just love Raiden and your writing hahaha thanks 💕 I may be back to request again 🫣

lightning in a bottle

pairing: Raiden x Reader

summary: you've been working at madam bo's for a while and noticed one young man who comes in a lot. it doesn't hurt that he's cute and nice. that is, until he starts acting a little weird one day

tw: mentions of drinking, surprise date, first kiss

a/n: my first non-johnny fic! this was requested (obviously lol) and it was so much fun to write! also, expect a second chapter, i'm not done with raiden just yet ;)

word count: 1.53 k

pt. 2

Ao3

This was the 10th-no-11th time he had come in this week, and you were starting to worry about him. Sure, he was cute and always tipped well, even complimenting Madam Bo directly every time. But eating here multiple times a day wasn’t going to be good for his body. Or his wallet. Yet, you said nothing like that to him and his friend. You had a system at this point. He would walk in and flash a smile, bowing slightly to you as you bow back. You would show him and his friend to their usual tables, not even bothering with menus at this point. You put in the order for their usuals and get back to your cleaning duties, sneaking looks back at him. You can’t help yourself, it’s hard to get sweet, handsome customers who aren’t drunk off their asses.

That seemed like the same thing was happening again, the bows and warm smiles shared between you too. But he was alone this time, no friend following shortly behind. As you start walking to the table, you hear a cough from behind you and you turn to realize he’s not with you. For the first time in a while, you hear him say something other than “The usual,” “Yes, please,” “Thank you,” and “The food was incredible, Madam Bo.” 

“I’d actually like to sit over there if that’s okay,” he points to a small table on the other side of the restaurant. “Yeah, of course!” You smile and pick up a menu, not wanting to assume again and lead him over to the sun-baked corner. He sits as you set the menu down, smiling with an expectancy of an order. But he just smiles, grabs the menu, and says, “Some tea, please,” before browsing his options.

You walk away, half-stunned, and find Madam Bo. She looks up at you, ready to hear the usual. But as you walk in, a confused look on your face, she grabs a glass of water and forces you to sit. “What’s wrong? Another drunk idiot mean to you?” She pats your back slightly as you look up at her. “He didn’t want the usual. He just wants some tea.”

“What??” She looks just as stunned as you but suddenly bursts out laughing. “Oh, I know what’s going on. Good for him, hm?” She forces you back on your feet, shoving a warm teapot and glass in your hand. “Go on, he’s getting thirsty without you.” You shake off how weird she was, even weirder than usual, and walk back to his table. As you pour the tea for him, you ask with as much confidence as you can muster, “Do you know what you’d like to eat?”

He clears his throat and looks behind you quickly. You turn after him, noticing Madam Bo leaning around the corner with a wink, disappearing a second later. Turning back, he stood up and pulled a chair out. “Could you sit, please?” Normally, you wouldn’t. He’s a customer. But he’s so kind, and he said it with such confidence, that you sit down across from him. He plants himself back down with a large grin. “Thank you. I know you’ve served me quite a bit, which I appreciate. And I know your name because…” He gestures vaguely to where a nametag would be on his chest before continuing, “But I don’t think you know mine. I’m Raiden. I’ve been coming by a lot lately, and I figured I wasn’t getting younger. Also, Madam Bo told me to. But, I think you’re really cool, and attractive, and I was wondering if you’d like to go on a date with me.” He paused to take a deep breath. “Now, if that's alright with you.”

“H-huh?” You take a long minute to process what he’s saying. “Madam…Bo?” You turn around again and see her waving at you, with a wide, conniving smile. You turn back to him, his smile starting to falter slightly. But honestly, you did need a break and you had noticed how cute he was for a while. When else would you get this chance? “Well…yeah, I’d love to.” You smile at him, which gives him another surge of confidence. “Great! Do you care what we order, or?” You shrug, untying your apron from your waist, “I’m not picky, I’ve tried everything twice.” He nods to Madam Bo behind you, hearing her shuffle away quickly. “Really? Are you a big fan of Madam Bo’s cooking?” 

“I guess you could say that,” you smile at him, he’s even nicer than you thought. “So what spurred this on? I’m assuming that it wasn’t all her doing,” you say with a general nod in Madam Bo’s direction. “Oh, no! I’ve been by a lot lately, and it’s mostly because of you. Not to sound creepy, but you’re quite attractive and nice and…well, I just think you’re cool.” His nervous smile widens, pouring a cup of tea for both of you. “Why, thank you. You’re pretty cool too. But I was wondering where your friend was.” He laughs slightly, “Oh, Kung Lao? He was busy with training today.”

“Training?” You tilt your head slightly, taking a sip of tea. “Yeah, Kung Lao and I are training under Madam Bo in various fighting styles. You know, Shaolin Fist, Nan Chuan, Jujustu.” “I only know one of those,” you laugh out slightly. “But you do a lot according to Madam Bo. Is she your grandma or something?” He coughs slightly, choking on the sip of tea that is in his mouth. “Oh, no no no. She’s just a good teacher.” “That I am!” Madam Bo appears out of nowhere, holding a large tray of food and placing it down. “You better eat up! I made this just for you two.” And she’s gone as quickly as she got there. Raiden looks at you and gestures at the food as if he’s asking you to eat first. And who are you to deny such a tempting request?

You both end up eating slowly since you can’t stop talking. He’s very humble and funny and genuinely likes hearing about you and your life. You learn more about him as well, that he’s a farmer and that he’s the Champion of Earthrealm. That sort of confused you at first, but he started telling the most incredible stories about another realm of fantastical beings and beautiful scenery, the backdrop for a massive showdown. You found yourself captivated by him, his words, and his charisma. Much too soon, the food is done, and you can feel Madam Bo shooting daggers into the back of your head. “You know, my shift is well past over. I should probably head home,” you say while standing up, grabbing your apron, and bowing slightly to him. He scrambles up after you, following as you walk towards the door, “Well then, allow me to escort you.” You giggle at his eagerness but nod slightly. “Alright, just follow me.” You wave to Madam Bo as you leave, her smile even wider. As you walk out the door, you hear her call out, “I knew you would be cute together! Lots of cute babies!” You hear Raiden cough next to you at how blunt she is, but you can’t help but laugh at her words. “What a typical elder! Only focused on what we can bring her, which is more kids to dote on.” He laughs along, glad you see the humor in it, “She just can’t help it, can she?”

You both walk down the dark street, shoulders bumping against each other and laughing quietly in the dark of night. You finally reach your house and lean against the door frame, looking at him sweetly. “You know, I had a good time today. I’m glad you asked me out. I’d love to do it again.” He lets out a sigh, a content smile on his face, “Oh, I’m glad. I don’t mean to sound weird, but I’ve noticed you for a while, and…I wanted to shoot my shot.” You reach your hand out, lightly tracing down his arm until you reach his hand, “You’re not the only one, you know. I’m always happier when you come in.” He twists your hand slightly, finally interlacing your fingers lightly and pulling you closer slightly. There you are, mere inches away from him under the moon, heart racing faster. His breathing is heavy, intense eyes looking into yours, and you finally close the gap. Leaning closer, you meet his lips with yours, light and gentle, which he gladly accepts. His free hand cups your face, pulling you closer. You’re lost in the moment, your hand against his chest, as your senses are full of him. You only feel his touch, smell the dust from the fields, hear your heartbeats synced up, taste his lips on yours. And then, when you pull away for air, all you can see is his gentle face, eyes lit up in joy. “We should do this again, yeah?” You whisper, still slightly out of breath. “Yeah, we should,” he whispers back, resting his forehead against yours with a smile.

[rshoumon]

BSD BOYS WHEN YOU SAY “I LOVE YOU”

platonic! but romantic undertones if you wish to see it that way <3 bsd and reader are friends (acquaintances (?) for aku)

CHARACTERS: akutagawa, atsushi, dazai, chuuya

WARNINGS: mentions of suicide (the usual dazai thing)

AKUTAGAWA:

you don’t remember how it happened

it must have been sometime after a mission you’d been sent on, and fate decided that you and the stone-faced mafioso would meet once again

despite being a member of the ada, due to how frequently you two got stuck in the same space, the air between akutagawa and yourself had slowly become less hostile as you both decided to keep a neutral stance concerning the other’s existence

he’d saved you once again from a common enemy you were both faced against, an act that simultaneously knocked out your aggressor

all you could think about was how tired you felt, barely capable of creating coherent thoughts

“your carelessness will get you killed one day. i will relish such an event when it happens.”

you’d snort.

“your enthusiasm is admirable. be sure to bring that to the table whenever you get a date. if that’s even possible.”

it was his turn to look at you with disgust

“you’re a fool if you think such customs are of any value to me.“

“right, right. you’re married to your work, sorry i forgot.”

“shut your trap l/n, you’re lucky i’ve allowed you to speak so carelessly as long as you have.”

“and i love you too akutagawa.”

your statement was delivered as a sarcastic remark, yet you couldn’t help but notice the sudden silence that hung thick in the air.

“you alive over there?”

“shut. up.”

ATSUSHI:

“dazai dumped another one of his assignments on you?”

you looked at the hardworking boy who currently stood on a ladder, nodding his head as he de-webbed the small crevices against the ceiling

he was hard at work, yet the subtle frown on his lips told you his enthusiasm was lacking

“yeah … it’s not too bad though. at least not this time.”

you’d nod your head, silently noting how much cleaner the office looked as attributed to atsushi’s efforts

“do you want me to get you something to eat?”

“only if you get something for yourself while you’re at it. don’t go acting like you’ve been doing nothing either.”

atsushi gave you one of those looks, reminiscent of the kind mothers would shoot towards their kids if they were suspicious on if they were taking proper care of themselves

“dawwww ～! you’re worried about little ‘ole me? i’m feeling all warm ‘n cozy now.”

all you received was a sheepish chuckle from the boy a few feet away.

“love you ‘tsushi!”

“hahaha … l-love you too?”

he flashed you a smile as sheepish as the laugh he’d released a few seconds prior. he wasn’t quite used to saying such words so casually, even if it was to a friend

he’d still watch you with a soft gaze as you made your way to the kitchen with your newfound determination to make the both of you a meal

DAZAI:

“y/nnnnnnn!”

dazai’s gleeful voice could be heard as he entered the office space in a dramatic flair. were you a fool, you would have thought that there wasn’t a single problem in the world for him. but this was dazai, there was always something that had to be done

“if you need me to do one of your errands, you may as well forget it.”

you continued to write a report for your most recent expedition out in the slums of yokohama. and what an experience it was

“so cruel! and i haven’t even said anything yet.”

a pout fell upon the man’s lips as he finally reached his desk, resting his head on the surface while peeking at your paper

“ohhhh! i see someone’s been busy ～ gone so far as having an unfortunate meeting with the port mafia hm?”

“yeah … fun.”

your eyes remained glued on the paper before you, ignoring the man-child at your side

“well then, after this why don’t we go out and do something fun ～? i heard there’s a festival in town, maybe there i can find someone to commit double suicide with!”

“i wish you good luck with that.” you’d hum in reply. “though … that does sound fun.”

“YOU MEAN YOU’D COMMIT DOUBLE-SUICIDE WITH ME?”

“NOT THAT YOU DUMBASS! I MEANT THE FESTIVAL!”

after some mindless banter, you find yourselves at the festival side by side, enjoying the spectacles around you

you didn’t think much when you said it, and you definitely didn’t think dazai would hear those three magical words slip past your lips as you gazed out at the fireworks

you couldn’t see it, due to your focus being adverted to the scene in front of you, but there was an unusual softness to his face then, even if just a second

CHUUYA:

“you couldn’t have asked anyone else to accompany you?”

the exhausted tone of the boy next to you was undeniable, paired with that bored look on his face, you were tempted to simply swat him away

“at this rate, your exhaustion is going to rub off on the both of us.”

you sighed, shifting the pile of boxes within your arms

“good, serves you right for making me your errand boy.”

you remember shoving his shoulder, causing him to almost lose balance of a similar pile of boxes in his grasp

“watch it jackass! can’t you see i’m holding this?”

“serves you right for wishing ill will upon me.”

the both of you bickered all the way to the storage room where you eventually left the boxes. you simply couldn’t wait to get out of there

“well someone’s more exhausted than they initially let on.”

chuuya’s pointed statement made you realize how off balance you felt, leaning sloppily against the concrete wall

“gimmie … five … yawn … minutes …”

you slowly slid down the wall with your eyes shut, soft breaths escaping your lips. you were completely conked out

“dumbass …”

making his way towards your snoozing figure, the red-head scooped you up into his arms quietly muttering about how careless you were

“ … mmmm , love ya chuu.”

you were definitely asleep, not even aware you were being carried by the man as you shifted in his arms

he released a subtle chuckle that vibrated through his chest

“love you too y/n.”

[yourimaginationrealm]

You: *sigh*

Nobara: „No, really who in the world, do you like so much. We just have idiots working here…“

You laugh: „Well, I never said that he isn’t a idiot…

Nobara : „hmmm?“

You: „He is always honest, cute, athletic, friendly to people and very energetic…. I love his caring side and even his determination to get stronger. His laughing is sweet and I have no idea why I feel so insecure around him-!“

Nobara: „Hooo~“

Yuji: „Woah! Sounds like an awesome guy you like! Besides, you shouldn’t feel like that, you are beautiful girl and just tell him. Who would reject a person like you?“

You: „E-Ehm. Thanks….? Since when are you behind me-me?“

Nobara: „Ohhh! Why did I never- I mean your explanation fits so well…“

Yuji: „Just now, wanted to train with Gojo-Sensei. What do you mean, Kugisaki?“

Megumi comes along the corner: „Hey guys, what’s going o- …. On?“

He sees you blushing and avoiding eye contact with Yuji as you mumble:

„Nothing….“

Yuji: „Oh, is it Megumi?

Megumi: „Hm..?

Nobara: „Wow, he is so dense ….“ she whisper to herself when she helps him:

„Nah, she said friendly, look at the guy!“

Megumi: „Hey!?“

You: „Is it now so important?“

Yuji: „Just trying to help do-„

Nobara: „You know what… I just take this unfriendly guy with me and you sort things out, okay?“

You: „No, Nobara I-!“

Yuji: „Huh?“

Megumi: „What the hell, I am very friendly!“

Nobara: „Yeah, you just don’t show it.“

Megumi: „More friendly than you. Ouch!“

Nobara: „Take that back …“

Yuji looks at you while you stare flustered to the floor.

„Do you know what she means..?“

You: „Uhm�� I…. „ you heart races in your chest as you can not look into his eyes. You fiddle embarrassed with your fingers.

„I…. Urgh… I“ you can not stop to stutter, your eyes flicker a second to his face as he seems worried about you and asks:

„Are you ok? You don’t have to push yourself to hard. Let’s follo-„

You just can’t take it. He is so considerate with you as you just close your eyes and yell at him:

„Damn it, it’s you! I really, really like you! I can’t even look at you and that is so stupid!“ The last part was actually meant only for yourself yet you couldn’t hold it back.

You hear nothing as you open one of your eyes curiously. He just stand in front of you with a dumbstruck expression and a light blush on his cheeks. His lips forms a ‚O‘ in realisation.

„Can…. You repeat it?“ he mutters as you blink at him.

„Did you just not notice how hard it was for me to actually say it?“

„Hahaha!“ he laughs and scratches the back of his head. „sorry, I just can’t believe it, you are the first girl who confessed your feelings for me. I am kinda bummed.“

You smile faintly as you watch him shyly.

„Sorry…?“

„No! Don’t be. I am flattered about your confession and I fee-„

„Hey, you two.“ Gojo enters proudly the scene when you look at him surprised. He seems smiling at you both. more like smirking.

„I’ve been waiting, Yuji-kun…“

Yuji: „Ah, sorry Sensei! I am coming immediately when-„

You: „No, you can go. We talk later…“

Yuji: „Really? I mean I don’t wanna stood you up here….“

You: „You don’t, we see each other later.“

You wave at him with a smile.

Before Yuji can turn around to leave with Gojo, the teacher just unashamedly mentions.

„No, goodbye kiss? Couples these days.“

Both of your ears and faces are blown red.

„We are not a couple!“ you both yell nervously when Yuji mutters at the end a „… yet“

„Huh? Totally, thought you two a thing.“ Gojo throws his hands into the air dramatically.

„Well, I am going!“ you bow in respect good bye for your teacher and walk fastly on the opposite way. Suddenly, you stop, turn back and kiss Yuji rapidly on his right cheek before leaving again. He blushes furiously and holding his cheek in shock.

"What a cutie and beauty you have there...." Gojo teasingly says while Yuji just nods.