arthurtaylorlester

[babygurltash]

Still thinking about the Starset concert in London last night and how fucking HARD it went 🙏🙏🙏

[arlertwhore]

Night Owl - Nika Muhl.

pairing: nika muhl x fem! reader

word count: 1.4k

synopsis: wnba rookie nika has become a night owl to a worrying extent since entering the league, staying up late in the living room watching games — you just want her in bed.

warning (s): kinda fluffy, smut, fingering, gettin da 🐈 caressed, tongue play, makeout sesh, nipple play, hickies, nika is angsty lol.

a/n: i heard y’all asking so i delivered

If you thought Nika's craze and perfectionism was intense back when she was at UConn, you've come to realize it's on a whole other level now that she's made the WNBA. She's a rookie, trying to ride the wave of it all, and she's utterly stressed.

You used to playfully tease that the 'N' in your girlfriend's name stood for "night owl." She was perpetually burning the midnight oil, diving into game replays and refining her skills, all with the determination of an WNBA athlete aiming for the win.

You were undeniably proud of her. Yet, you couldn't help but long for the days when she wasn't a mad-man.

It had left you like this on countless nights, feeling the absence keenly as you lay in bed, reaching out for her warmth only to find empty sheets. You'd often find yourself slipping out of bed, drawn to the dim glow of the living room where you'd discover Nika, immersed in her work or training, her dedication evident in the lines of concentration etched on her face. As much as you admired her drive, it was hard not to yearn for the simpler moments when she was by your side, untethered by the demands of her relentless pursuit of excellence.

"Baby," you sighed softly, casting your gaze over the parlor, "Come to bed, Nik, you know I can't sleep without you. And all this... it's really starting to worry me."

Nika's face remained fixated on the TV screen, lips parted, but her hands extended towards you, silently beckoning you to join her.

"I'm all good, baby, jus-" she paused, seeming to relax now that you were on her lap, her hands instinctively upon your waist, "You know I work better at night."

You pressed your lips into a line, a bittersweet smile on your face. "Can I interrupt?" you asked softly.

Nika's eyes flicked between you and the screen. "Mhm, of course."

You leaned in close to her face, nose-to-nose. "It's currently 2 going on 3," you whispered. You pecked her lips gently. "No more of this, Nika. You're not gonna learn anything by burning yourself out."

You took a lock of her brown hair, twirling it gently between your fingers, savoring its softness. "And if you do want to burn yourself out... you've got me," you whispered sensually, promises of your support.

You smiled reassuringly, and Nika returned it with that familiar, comforting smile before leaning in and planting another tender kiss on your lips.

Before you knew it, you guys were deeply engrossed in a make-out session, one that blended perfectly with the mood of the night and the atmosphere surrounding you two. With her gentle hands, she felt you up and down, one inching down towards your clothed heat

to rub over your shorts, and the other moving up to your perky breast seamlessly, rubbing it.

Easily, just like that, you got Nika back to bed, where she continued to feel you up over your night shorts until you succumbed to the pleasure and came undone in your pants with soft, ragged breaths and whines into her mouth.

Feeling the after-effects of your orgasm and the lingering fatigue, you quickly drifted into a deep sleep, comforted by her presence.

When you awoke again, Nika was still awake, her gaze fixed on you as you stirred.

"Sorry," she blushed immediately, her tone apologetic. "I know you hate it when I watch you." But how couldn't she? You looked so incredibly sexy to her in that moment.

Through sleepy, lidded eyes, you gazed up at her, your expression filled with adoration. "You wanna go back to that living room, huh?" you said teasingly, knowing her like the back of your hand, and she

she hesitated before admitting it with a small smile, "I might. But you're making me stay."

Your eyes ghosted down to her lips. "I'd hope so," you crooned before leaning in to kiss her. Positioned intimately in bed, your lips,

involuntarily against her neck, began to plant soft kisses along its delicate curve.

Nika shuddered, hand flying to grip your back and pull you closer to her body. "You're so tense," you observed between kisses, your voice laced with desire. "Makes sense why you can't sleep," you remarked, your breath warm against her skin.

She turned over onto her back, pulling you close between her arm and side, her embrace a silent plea for closeness. Your hand ghosted down Nika's thigh, eliciting a gasp from her as it reached her most sensitive spot.

With practiced ease, your fingers slipped inside her, sending her eyes rolling back in ecstacy, pleasure overtaking her body as all the tension melted away, replaced by an overwhelming sense of bliss.

You chuckled at her reaction to finally getting what you knew she had needed all along. "Am I making you wanna stay put?" you teased gently, brushing a strand of hair away from her face as your lips trailed down her neck, giving her soft kisses that gradually intensified into gentle nips and sucks, forming subtle marks of need.

You worked your fingers, pumping them in and out of her wet cunt as she arched her back, her muscles gradually untensing with each stroke of your determined fingers into her. Soft sighs escaped her parted lips, the brunette releasing small moans of satisfaction into the air.

You leered at Nika unabashedly, your eyes attempting to capture every detail, trying to engrave this moment into your memory forever.

Under the moonlight's gentle embrace, she appears like a scene from an angel. Her fair skin seems to catch the moon's glow, giving her an almost otherworldly aura, and each strand of her hair is softly illuminated, framing her face like a halo.

There's a gentle sweat on her skin from the releasing of her stress and from the warmth of the night air. In this moment, she's not just beautiful, she's captivating in her simplicity. It's a sight that makes your heart skip a beat, a reminder of the magic that exists in the world, especially when you least expect it.

"Am I making you feel better, Nika?" She nodded repeatedly, her eyes closed in pleasure, and her teeth biting down on her bottom lip as she surrendered to the pleasure roving through her body.

"Look at me and tell me how good I'm making you feel then," she clutches the sheets beneath her with one hand, her knuckles turning white, and with the other, the hand that's keeping you close to her body, she pulls you in even closer as she begins to play with her nipple through her flimsy night top, her breathing growing heavier and her moans becoming more pronounced.

Quickly, a minute later, she's panting, "I'm gonna cum on your fingers, baby."

Her body responds eagerly to your touch. She writhes beneath you, bucking against your skilled fingers as you stroke into her, each movement driving her closer to the edge. Gasping with pleasure, she urges you on, her voice trembling with desire. "Keep on goin', babe, just li-like that."

Your lips find hers hungrily, fueled by a primal desire. Sensing her surrender, you do something that makes her tremble weakly, a silent plea for more; you lick into her mouth, greeting her tongue with your own. Her lips try to catch it, but your tongue slips away, leaving her mouth curling around nothing as she finally opens her eyes and gazes at you, elated.

When she cums, it's silent, and you'd miss it lest your eyes remain on her how they are, persistently. She stills, her body frozen in a moment of pure ecstasy. There's no sound, no movement, until the climax washes over her completely. With a sigh of relief, her eyes shut instantaneously, and she lets out a quiet, satisfied groan, completely lost in the blissful aftermath of pleasure.

She'd came a river onto your hands. As you turn around, behind yourself for the nightstand, grabbing some wipes to clean up the aftermath, you turn back to offer some to her, only to find your girlfriend fast asleep, completely spent from the intensity of it all. A soft smile tugs at the corners of your lips as you realize just how thoroughly she's been intoxicated by stress and how you had just eliminated it. You'd do this everynight with her if you had to, just to keep her there, relaxed in bed with you. With gentle care, you clean her up before settling back beside her, wrapping her in your arms as you drift off to sleep together.

You whisper those three precious words to your sleeping beauty, "Love you, Nika," not expecting any response from her exhausted form. But then, to your surprise, you hear a faint murmur from the depths of her slumber, "Love you too."

masterlist

an: it’s soooo late omg I’ll add my thoughts later update: loved writing this... y'all she is a smokeshow i had to lock in.

[mirage-05]

Sting and Lyanna [Fairy Tail]

So... it’s been a while since we do this, but seeing some likes on our Fairy Tail content lately couraged me to post another fanfiction collab between me and @eleanor-devil xD As usual, this is part of our bigger project. 

This story take place after the Alvarez war and there are a few OCs in it, namely Rin ( @mirage-05 who you probably already know by now), Eleanor ( @eleanor-devil ) and one of the titular characters, Lyanna. We don’t want to give many spoilers, though, so I hope you enjoy reading x3

Oh and a small warning that by this time, StingYu (Sting x Yukino) and NaLu (Natsu x Lucy) are already a couple!

Feedback is, of course, highly appreciated. ^^

-------

For some reason, and it had to be a very good reason, Sting Eucliffe was quiet... for days. That never ever happened, not even Rufus had memory of such a thing happening.

Rogue and Lector had noticed this started happening not long after Sorano, Yukino's elder sister and former member of Crime Sorcière, having asked - she actually more like demanded along with her nuts of a knight boyfriend - to join Sabertooth.

Sting would still do his usual stuff, go to the bar, take walks, do Master stuff but just in a very quiet way, almost gloomy and nobody could understand why.

It wasn't that Rogue didn't ask him... time and time again what was bothering him, it had reached a point he'd give anything for Sting to act in his usual childish and annoying way - though it was not like he was gonna admit it to anyone, let alone to that knucklehead. The awful quietness of the White Dragon Slayer had started to worry him, so much so that it wasn't beyond him at this point to try desperate measures.

"Rogue... what is that?" Sting asked while raising an eyebrow, looking at the big envelope in the Shadow Dragon Slayer's hands.

Without ever changing his stoic expression, the young man answered. "Orga's baby photos." It shall remain a secret as to how he got a hold of said photos. He held up the envelope, knowing that under normal circumstances Sting would never say no to that. "You wanna take a look at it?" Honestly, anyone watching them from outside would think they've just swapped their personalities.

After a moment of silence and stares between his Twin Dragon Slayer and the envelope... Sting went back to what he was doing. "I have a lot of paperwork to deliver Rogue, I don't have time for that right now."

And that's how Rogue Cheney's jaw dropped... well... not literally but the Shadow Dragon Slayer was shocked, so shocked that he nearly asked what had the guy in front of him done to the real Sting... but he chose not to as he probably would get a not-very-Sting-like answer. So he just forcefully dragged his feet out of the man's office, without saying anything else to the blond; he faced almost the whole guild that was waiting outside for an answer and hopeful looks.

"...He refused the photos." The Dragon Slayer announced.

"Okay that's it, I'm calling him sick." said Eleanor.

The Master, in the meantime, sighed and rubbed his temples as soon as the door closed. He was aware that his friends were just trying to help him, but really, the problem was all in his head, and it wasn't something small that a little group therapy would solve. He was having a number of recurring dreams lately - not the same nightmares from a while ago, thank god -, all of them included the same three people, laughing and chatting with... well, a younger version of him. It was such a nice and warm atmosphere that there had been mornings he found it hard to get up and face the reality that those three people didn’t exist anymore.

Sting had no doubts about it...he had been seeing his real family, the one he had lost many centuries ago. A wave of sadness washed over him again at the memory, threatening to drown him...and that’s why he had decided to immerse himself in his Guild Master's duties, work to forget - that and well, the sense of responsibility that had finally kicked in -. If he didn't do anything to keep his mind busy...he felt like he would go crazy.

The blond didn't know how much time had passed while signing off the paperwork, but he suddenly heard chatter out of his office again. 'Sheesh...what does a guy have to do to get some privacy?' he thought to himself, mildly annoyed now.

And suddenly a familiar pink haired man burst into his office so fast that it even made some papers fly around the room - awesome..he had just finished organizing those...self-note to get some paper clips later… Attached to both his arms and practically dragging on the floor  were both Lucy and Yukino, clearly they seemed to have been trying to hold back the Salamander from doing exactly what he had just done.

"Yoooo Sting! It's been a while!"

Sting just blinked a few times to see if he was actually seeing right. "Um... Natsu-san?"

Natsu moved closer to the Light Dragon Slayer, the girls completely forgotten on the floor, and patted him a few times in his head, maybe with a little too much strength as Sting was trying to hold back winces whenever he did that. "Drop the 'san' man, we're brothers aren't we?!"

Well... apparently some things were never going to change. "What brought you two here?" he asked instead of replying to the Fire Dragon Slayer. 

"Eh what, is it too weird to want to see my fellow Dragon Slayer?"

"You still shouldn't have interrupted his work though." Lucy pretty much chastised the pink head.

"I'm sorry, Sting... we tried." Yukino supplied her.

"Yeah, what's up with that, man?" Natsu continued as if he didn't hear the girls. "Your friends keep telling me that you're all work and no play lately. Or well what Rufus actually said was that you've become dull as Orga's songs."

Now his eye had begun twitching. Typical...leave it to Sabertooth to start rumors behind his back...

"There is nothing wrong with me." he said as he stood up from his chair. "And I haven't become dull either...! I am just being the Master I should have been for a long time, I don't have time for plays right now."

"Sting..." Yukino whispered, sweating at how harsh her lover was acting, this definitely wasn't him... she wished he would at least open up to her or Rogue...

"Now, what did you come here for?"

Natsu was just silent for a bit, not seeming bothered by his friend's bad humor, and then grinned. "Weeeell we have come here to invite specifically you - and a few more if they want to - on a job."

Sting raised an eyebrow. "Why would you ask another guild to come on a job requested to Fairy Tail?"

This time it was Lucy who talked, she stepped forward and held out the piece of paper that contained the information about the mentioned job "Actually it's because the client demands this job to be done by both Fairy Tail and Sabertooth mages, but don't ask me why, I have no idea. Plus the client decided to keep his face anonymous until we find what he wants."

"Oh, I think I've seen that job on our board," Yukino walked to another table in the office where there were a few recent job requests and looked through them. "Here it is, this is the copy but it's no doubt the same job." The request actually demanded Sting himself to participate in the job although like Natsu mentioned he was allowed to take more Sabertooth mages with him. 

Yukino couldn’t help but find this strange, last time they had seen a request with specific demands it turned out to be a trap set to capture both Sting and Rogue.

"Well we came to pick Sting up for the job," Natsu crossed his arms behind his head and then grinned with tease. "But since he's so busy being Master I guess he won't have time to do it with us."

There were times the White Dragon Slayer wouldn't stand by and let a teasing pass over, but he didn't feel like it now. The blond didn't say anything for a moment as he took the job form from Yukino and glanced over it. His confusion only increased when he saw the location of the mission. "...Fairy Tail's library? Is Makarov-san okay with it?" After all, a guild's library held many things, including their secret archives most of the time. To allow another guild to walk in freely was something unheard of in the many years past.

"Yeah, uh...there won't be any problem regarding that." the blond celestial mage said while sweat dripped down her chin. To be frank, what led Fairy Tail's Master to accept the job was what the mission promised in the end...or so he said, even the reward was being kept a mystery.

"Find... a treasure hidden in the library?" Now this was becoming even more mysterious. 

"Well? Are you in or not?" Natsu folded his arms, impatient. 

Sting sighed, closing his eyes for a minute. "Fine. I'll come with you." He looked over at his girlfriend. "Are you coming too, Yuki?"

The girl shook her head. "I can't... I'm leaving on another job, but..." a sweat dripped down her cheek. "I... think there are already a flock of our members ready to take it on."

Sting just glanced at the door and he felt sweat drops on the back of his head when he saw nearly all the guild members at it with their hands up and even their eyes shining, he could only guess they wanted the mysterious reward more than just do the job itself.

But no he wasn't going to take the whole guild into Fairy Tail's secret library, Sting just sighed. "Okay... Rogue, Rin, you're coming with me on this job if you are free."

"Oh come on, you always pick them!" complained Orga, who now looked like a child pouting while he crossed his arms.

Sting raised his eyebrow. "Maybe because I know they won't destroy the entire library..."

"Touché," mumbled Rufus.

They set off to the train station... and the two girls of the group had their hands full considering they had to deal with not one but three motion sick Dragon Slayers during the trip back to Fairy Tail, it was so bad that Natsu wanted to jump out of the window and run there instead.

But finally, after what felt like hours... they were in front of the entrance of the library and it wasn't an exaggeration to say that the Sabertooth mages were awe-struck.

"Whoa, this place is huge," Sting said, voicing their thoughts. To be honest...during her recovery time in Fairy Tail, Rin had been allowed to visit the library to keep herself distracted so she was already familiar with the place. Still it was a sight to be amazed.

A normal person would be intimidated by the size of this mission, especially when they didn't know exactly what they were looking for. But Natsu Dragneel was not what you would say a normal person. He cracked his fingers, totally unperturbed. "Okay... let's get this going!"

"Wait, not just like that," Lucy interrupted, then she distributed to all of them what looked like marking devices. "Let's pick a section each. When you are done, you can use this to mark the shelves, so we know not to check there again."

"That's boring." The pink haired mumbled, boredom translating to his eyes and it only made the Celestial Spirit Mage angry.

"You would just destroy the library otherwise!" 

Rin giggled at the two mages arguing, it was funny that theirs was such a fiery relationship whereas Sting-nii’s and Yuki-nee's was so calm and quiet, despite Sting-nii not being the most calm person when he was in his normal days of course. 

"Next time you get your butt stuck in a cactus don't come ask me to take off the thorns!"

Those words for a reason ringed in Sting's mind, he couldn't explain why but he felt he had been in a similar situation before, well not exactly the argument between Natsu and Lucy but... something else...

~.~.~.~

"Ow! Ow!" the voice of a little boy rang through the air. "Can't you do that a little more gently??"

"Taking them off slowly only hurts more, dummy," a soft female voice answered back, amusement was clear in her expression as the little blond boy laying tummy down on her lap was trying to hold back the tears. "And you deserve this you know, how many times did mom tell you to not play near the cactus, Lys?"

"Don't call me that." the little boy said with a big pout curled in his lips while he folded his arms. The older girl laughed.

"Oh, I'm sorry, I should be calling you Lysander."

"Stop it."

"Lysandeeeer~"

"I hate you!" The boy said indignantly, and then another "Oww!"

"You know actually, now that I think of it... I think I know what I will call you from now on. I have the perfect idea."

There was a big moment of silence, it was apparent that the boy was trying his best to curb his curiosity. In the end though, he couldn't keep it in. "What...?"

"Since you keep falling on your butt in cactus... I will just call you Sting from now on."

~.~.~.~

"Ugh..." Sting brought his hand to his face as he felt a sudden headache settling in. Where did that come from?!

"Sting-nii, are you okay?" Rin immediately asked, concerned.

Rogue's attention was also on Sting, just what was wrong with him...? The worry for his brother in arms was becoming bigger.

"Nothing," of course he would say that, it had been his answer in the past few days. This time though, the young man rubbed Rin's head softly and gave her a soft smile, not his usual smiles but at least it was one.

'Rin... actually looks a lot like her...'

"Let's just get started, yes? We have a lot of work ahead of us." Sting pretty much dragged Natsu inside the library so that he and Lucy would stop arguing at once. Something that usually wouldn't bother the Light Dragon Slayer, it would actually amuse him, but not this time. Not with the headache he was having.

The group split up and began checking every single shelf in attempts to find... whatever they were looking for.

"It's hard to find something when you don't even know what you are looking for..." mumbled Sting as he took yet another book and blew away the dust on it, the job itself was just too strange. "Who is even the client again?"

Apparently no one knew the answer for that, and as Sting was about to put the book back in its place without much of a glance at it, the title suddenly caught his attention. "Dreyar Family Chronicles". 

Maybe he shouldn't - this was nothing short of invading private space... but the Light Dragon Slayer still found himself opening the book. He would just take a quick peek... this couldn't hurt anyone, right?

For some reason he started from the end, looking at the current members of the Dreyar household, Laxus-san (with whom he was on neutral terms, the two of them really didn't have a lot of contact), his father Ivan (whom he believed was still in custody) and the current leader of the guild, Makarov-san. He flipped the pages forth, looking through various generations of the family, almost as if in a trance.

He was a bit caught off guard when he came across the photo of Makarov-san's father, Yuri, he looked a bit familiar even the way his spiky dark blond hair was done, the smile too.

Sting continued flipping the pages, seeing some family photos and then he just stopped when he saw the picture of a woman, immediately considering her really beautiful the Master took a look at her long and straight blonde hair, a bit darker but not as dark as Yuri Dreyar's and then her sharp shaped but gentle aquamarine eyes and an equally gentle smile.

It was her, the one he saw in his dreams…

His... mother...

~.~.~.~

"Lysander Eucliffe!" The voice of a woman echoed through the walls of the wooden house. "What in the world happened to you?" The woman bent down, holding her long dress as she did so, until she reached her son's height. The child was on the verge of tears and looked all battered, scratches and dark circles here and there.

"Have you been fighting again? God how many times have I told you to not do that?" 

"But..." the child sniffed, trying his best not to cry.

"It's not his fault, mama..." A young girl approached the two, looking down, ashamed and sad. "It's mine... there were some kids messing up with me... Lys just tried to defend me..."

"Don't call me that." the child mumbled, raising a hand to wipe his tears but wincing as he touched one of the cuts.

The look in the woman's eyes softened a little, and she reached out to scoot both of her children to herself. "Lyanna, Lysander... I'm glad you are standing up for one another but-"

"Of course I will stand up for her! She is my sister!" The boy said defiantly, holding his hands in fists. "Those boys had what was coming for them! I will do it again if I have to!" Tears started falling down one by one, but he didn't care now. 

His sister turned to him and flung her arms around his neck, also teary. "You are my hero." she whispered in his ear, and the boy felt a little blush spreading across his cheeks.

Their mother smiled fondly at them, her light colored eyes soft. "Okay... but now let's get this hero cleaned up, shall we?"

~.~.~.~

Sting blinked as he came back to reality, and was surprised that he had teared up too. The memory was still fresh... like it didn't happen centuries ago, but just yesterday... But the question was... why was the picture of... his mother in the Dreyar's family album? Granted he had never known other relatives from both his parents' sides but still... it was all too confusing for him. He flipped to the next page and there was another photo of his mother but this time she was in the company of a man, tall, strong body built, short but slightly spiked light blond hair and a pair of dark blue eyes. The man had an arm wrapped around his wife's shoulders while the other hand rested on her swollen belly, standing in front of them with both her hands also on the belly was a younger girl, Lyanna for sure.

This was becoming more confusing, why was his family depicted in this album? What could even be their connection to the Dreyars when his family had been gone for over 400 years?

Sting suddenly remembered a question he had once made to his father…

~.~.~.~

He had come with his father into the forest so they could cut and gather wood for winter. It was going to be a very harsh season, his father had said.

Lysander would often hear how those harsh and cold temperatures could kill someone and he didn't like the idea or the thought of his family dying, whether it was because of the cold or something else.

The child was now sitting on a trunk of a tree that his father had already taken down, he was waiting for him to finish cutting the wood they would be bringing back some. Wrapped in the warm scarf knitted by his mother, Lysander swung his little legs back and forth, watching with lack of interest how his breathing turned into a cloud right in front of his face and then slowly disappeared.

His attention then turned towards the cutting sounds that came from the impact between the wood and the axe on his father's hands. Suddenly a small pout formed on his lips.

"Daddy?"

The man stopped what he was doing and then turned his dark blue eyes towards his son "Hm? What is it?"

But Lysander then lost his guts to ask what he wanted... it was a silly question anyway "No... it's nothing." 

Instead of hearing his father returning to his job, the boy heard the axe being buried one single time in the trunk and then the steady paces in the snow coming closer to him. Lysander raised his own dark orbs to meet his father's stern but at the same time soft look.

"What have your mother and I said about lying?"

He averted his eyes again "I'm not lying..."

"You wanted to ask me something, didn't you? So why did you suddenly back off?" He was now crouched down in front of him.

There was a time of silence before the blond boy finally spoke up, the pout still there "You will never die right...? We'll always be together... right?" 

His father gave him a confused and surprised look. "What is this about?"

"It's just... I keep hearing about people... dying in our town... and I don't want that to happen to us…" There was a rosy blush on the cheeks of the boy though it was unknown if it was from embarrassment or the cold weather.

“I see, so you’re scared?” His father shifted his position to sit beside him but Lysander didn’t look up to him, the snow was suddenly something very fascinating to look at. “It’s alright to be scared, we are humans and it’s normal to feel that way.”

This got the child to finally look up at the man, a surprised look on his indigo orbs. “Even you are scared? But you never look like it...!”

The man laughed and pulled his son closer to him. “Of course I am scared, I am scared of losing you, your mother and your sister but feeling that way makes us stronger, it gives us strength to protect the ones we love.” He poked one finger on the child’s nose. “So never ever be afraid of showing how you truly feel, there is no embarrassment in showing that you are sad, scared or happy, understand?” Lysander nodded, a big smile finally reaching his lips and the blush on the cheeks spread further.

“Now, as for your other question. Death is something inevitable, it will come for us one day whether we like it or not but we just don’t know when. There is no way that we can be together forever in the physical world but ‘forever’ can be something that only this here…” and he touched the boy’s left side of the chest “...decides what it is and how it is.”

~.~.~.~

Sting couldn’t help the small smile that reached his face, it was an almost melancholic smile but at the same time a happy one. It seemed that even when he didn’t remember him, his father’s words had always accompanied and shaped how he was.

Moving to the next photo, the Master noticed how there was a woman, very similar to his mother but still with some differences, she was dressed in what looked like a beautiful white wedding gown. 

Out of curiosity, Sting's eyes drifted to the description of the photo "Lyanna Dreyar on her wedding day". The Sabertooth Master's eyes widened in surprise, it couldn't be right? 

Lyanna... was a very common name, it couldn't be her, she had died on that day along with their parents, he was sure of it...

Sting didn't even notice that his hands had started shaking, so much that the book dropped from his hands; it was still a sort of a big fall considering as Sting had been sitting on a tall ladder and it grabbed the attention of the remaining members of the group when the impact of the book on the floor echoed through the library.

"Oi, is everything okay Sting?" Natsu asked, approaching the ladder he was on and looking up at him. "Did you find anything?"

"U-umm... yes and no?" He really didn't know how to answer. Well yes the album became something very important for him but... they still had a mission to complete, which none of them knew if they were making progress or not. And yet, for him suddenly that album meant everything... 

He quickly descended the stairs he was perched on, only to find out that the Fire Dragon Slayer had picked up the book and was... trying to open it to no avail - which made absolutely no sense, it was a goddamn book, how hard was it to open it? 

"What is it with this book?" Natsu grumbled, not impressed. "Does Gramps want to keep all his family shenanigans to himself?" Just then a huge, mischievous grin lit up his features and he turned to his friend. "Oi Luce, you think we will find some embarrassing photos of Laxus in here?!"

"It's not like that!" Sting said almost indignantly as he grabbed the book out of the pink head's hands. All of their jaw dropped as the blond had no trouble opening the book at all.

Sting raised an eyebrow. "Why are you all looking at me like that?"

"You just opened the book when a second ago I couldn't that's why!" Natsu approached the Master and tried to flip a sheet of the book only to have it slam closed right into his hand; the Fire Dragon Slayer yelled both in pain and surprise, startling the others, and immediately removed the hand from the book. "Did you enchant the book or something?!"

"How would I do that, I don't even have Rune Magic."

"Um... well for some reason that book only opens with you," Lucy stated as she attempted to open the book herself. "So maybe we are on the right path to find the treasure..."

Natsu side eyed them. "How does gold fit inside a book?"

Everyone felt right in that moment the need to face wall at the pink haired’s brain work.

"Anyway..." Lucy spoke again. "Does the book say anything important? Maybe there's a clue..."

"Well..." Sting was suddenly very reluctant to share this private information for him. It was weird to explain, but it was almost this... instinct that he should protect this book and its contents to the last of his breath. Not that anyone in this room was an enemy or anything... but it was somehow private, personal. 

It was then that he met Rin's eyes and that odd nostalgic feeling hit him again, that the little girl looked a lot like the sister he remembered... and maybe that was the reason why he started talking. 

"I don't know if it's the special treasure the mission is talking about... it's actually some sort of photo album for your Master, Makarov-san..." he paused for a moment, a lump in his throat. "I know it sounds weird but... I saw the picture of someone... I thought it looked like..." his voice dropped, but he wasn't even aware of it. "...my sister..." It was weird, he didn't even know if his fellow Dragon Slayers remembered anything about their families...

"Sister?!" Everyone's voices echoed in Sting's already enhanced ears but the young man just nodded and re-opened the book right where he remembered the photo was.

"So... you remember your sister from..." Natsu tried to count with his fingers but it was too much. "400 plus years ago?? That's a good memory you have dude!"

Sting felt like rolling his eyes. "It's not like I've always remembered her... or my parents for all that matter, just... recently what I think are memories that started gaining shape in my mind, I can't explain how."

"Skiadrum and Weisslogia... they were the only dragons that choose to wipe the memories of their children before sending them to the future," Rogue began, a hand on his chin. "Could it be that the effects are wearing out? But I haven't had any memories of my original family."

"Wouldn't that mean that Natsu, Wendy and Gajeel would remember their past too?" Lucy pointed out.

"Well... I do remember my time with Igneel but I don't recall anything from my parents," Natsu put his arms behind his head casually. "The only thing I know is from when Zeref showed up in my mind or something."

"I... it doesn't make sense for me either..." The blond dragon slayer brought up a hand to rub his eyes, the headache pounding in his skull again. Still, he forced himself to talk about what to him was probably the most painful memory. "Because... my sister, I thought she didn't... survive the attack that separated us..."

As if on cue, the book in his hands suddenly started to glow faintly with a soft, golden light, once again attracting the gazes of all of them. "Whoa dude, what are you doing to that book?" Natsu asked him, now standing a couple of feet away from the book and his arms raised upon his head. Typical of the Fire Dragon Slayer to be freaked out by something as simple as a book...

"I'm telling you, I didn't do anything!" the Light Dragon Slayer said again. "I-..."

His voice was cut in by a soft, almost soothing sound coming from the book... and hearing it, a hushed silence fell upon the group, especially on Sting, who was looking at the object with an awed expression... he didn't know how... but he knew that voice...

"Year x396. This is the start of Lyanna Eucliffe's diary." There was a small pause before the imaginary woman continued, and they could all hear the smile in her tone now. "Well... I'm a Dreyar now. A little over twenty years have passed since I lost my precious family in the attack from the dragons... and now, as I continue my path with my new family, I would like to record all that made that little girl into the woman she is now."

Sting could feel his heart starting to beat faster, so fast that he was sure not only the other two Dragon Slayers present would be able to hear it but the other two ordinary girls as well.

"I was born on the Year x366 to Juliana and Ewan Eucliffe and six years later I received the best gift I could ever ask for, my little brother Lysander was born, I loved him so much... on the day he was born I promised I would always protect him no matter what... but..." The voice was getting teary. "...in the end I couldn't do anything as he was taken away by that dragon, nothing at all. He was always exploring, always getting his clothes dirty and making mom worry and sometimes angry, he even used to play around cactuses and would always fall on them, then would come crying to me and I would take all the thorns out." There was a soft laugh. "I started calling him Sting because of that, I think he actually preferred that over his real name."

Sting started feeling his eyes hot and a large lump forming in his throat, just... what was all this...? How...?

"Out of our family I was the sole survivor, I was just ten at the time and so I was taken to an orphanage but life was really complicated after the dragon attacks, so I lived there most of my life. When I was of age, I started traveling on my own but no matter where I went I couldn't find a place to call home, not without my family around. Then I met James and for the first time in years I felt truly happy... he helped me in many things, it is thanks to him that I am being able to record this diary now, it turns out I have magic that none of my family members had: Recording Magic." There was a pause. "...I am carrying our first child now, maybe if it's a boy I can name him Lysander."

"B-but... no, that's not possible..." Sting's voice was shaky as he frowned in denial, the book's glow dimming as the voice faded out. He was surprised how he could even still find his voice... it was like he just received a major blow, the pain in his chest was so real... "She... she died on that attack... that was the last thing I remember before that dragon took me...!"

The others were silent, both out of a profound respect for the diary's owner and loss of words in such a situation. "It seems that..." Lucy finally said in a sad tone, wiping a tear from her eyes. "...neither of you were aware that the other survived..." she couldn't even imagine the scope of the tragedy the blond was going through.

"But if Weisslogia rescued you from the attack... why would he leave your sister behind?" Natsu asked doubtfully.

"Natsu..." Lucy began in a warning tone, but Sting cut her in, shaking his head.

"No, it wasn't Weisslogia who took me away from the attack..." he whispered as another piece of memory came back.

~.~.~.~

Lyanna was holding her brother's hand tightly, both running through the ruins of what once was their village, now all there was fire, smoke and... death.

Their parents were both gone... their beloved mother crushed by the ceiling of their house... their brave father killed by the claws of a dragon. All that was left were the two of them and Lyanna was determined to keep her word, she would protect her little brother no matter what.

The two children were trying to stay strong, trying not to shed the tears that threatened to fall, trying not to sob out of fear of being heard by any nearby dragon.

Lyanna suddenly came to a halt and hugged Lysander close to her as they hid behind a broken pillar and wall, they heard footsteps, big footsteps and a roar nearby. There was a dragon closeby...

"Ly..." the girl put her delicate hand over her brother's mouth, signing him to hush. They stayed there for what seemed an eternity... and right when the dragon seemed to have gone away, the pillar behind them crumbled in the direction of the children.

Out of instinct, Lyanna threw her brother as far away as she could as the pieces of marble fell upon her. Lysander rolled a few feet away from the fallen pillar before looking up at where his sister once stood.

The little boy's eyes widened in terror as he tried to reach for his sister. "LYANNAAAA!!" he screamed out, his voice ringing around the area, and finally the tears came flooding down his cheeks... it was too harsh a reality for a four year old to realize that now he was all alone in the whole world... he had no one left from his precious family...this was everything he had always feared...

He didn't have a lot of time to proceed with his grief though. Big, heavy talons grabbed him and the kid screamed in pain as they bit into his shoulders. Despite the pain, he wasn't aware of his surroundings, his eyes were still fixated on the rubble beneath which his sister had disappeared, and he kept staring there even when it became a small speck on the ground, and even when he soared through and above the clouds... it was only the freezing wind that rippled through his thin clothing that finally made him snap out of his shock. That was when he heard a rumbling roar of laughter coming from the monster holding him... chilling him to the bone in a way no wind can.

"Heh... you, kid, ain't enough for my belly... but you'll make a fine meal for my cubs."

The little boy attempted to fight off the claws of that big monster but they were so tight on his tiny shoulder that the more he moved, the more they penetrated his thin skin making the child yelp in pain. It was over, he would be meat for baby dragons and there was nothing he would be able to do about it.

...Although it didn't matter anymore, he was all alone, maybe it was for the best now he would join his family and the pain of living alone in a world full of dragons wouldn't be a problem for him.

Just as the child's eyes started closing, he thought he heard a second roar tearing apart the skies and the dragon carrying him was suddenly covered by a shadow much bigger than itself. Then he felt it, the bigger dragon bumped into the other which caused it to let go the nearly unconscious boy.

The last thing he knew was that he was falling from the high skies, the last thing he felt was something grabbing him. Then it was all darkness.

...

When he opened his eyes again... the boy was a little surprised to find himself standing on a rocky place... surrounded by huge rock bodies everywhere. A mountain? Funny, in all of the stories he heard about heaven he was sure he didn't hear of mountains.

A sudden pain on his shoulder made him wince and put a hand on it. Something wet and sticky came to his hand, and he saw blood covering it. A chilled wind rushing through him also made him aware of the fact that his senses were pretty much intact.

"If this is heaven, I don't like it..." he mumbled under his breath as his lips turned in a pout. Where were mama and papa...? And Lyanna...

"I know no such thing as heaven," a loud, rumbling voice can be heard then, making Lysander jump a foot in the air. He saw a shadow moving behind a cave not too far from him. A big shadow... "But you are not dead, human child."

"A-are you...God?" the kid asked, his voice trembling. There was a low, chuckle-like sound.

"Well no, I don't think you would call me a god either."

Then the shadow moved again. Time came to a stop and the boy gasped in fright as the creature finally revealed itself.

It was a gigantic dragon, but actually very different from the one Lysander remembered that had taken him away from his burning village. This one was light-colored and had a large and long beard that resembled feathers; it also had two small antlers protruding from the top of his head. Compared to its feathery, windswept face the rest of the dragon's body was covered by thick scales and its belly looked really smooth. But what made the child open his mouth into a big 'O' was the wings of the dragon, they looked like those of an angel that his mother would often tell him about in bedtime stories.

Despite being in awe with the majestic and sage looking appearance of the gigantic beast, survival instincts kicked inside the small child and he reached for the first thing that he could find: a tiny and thin stick. Lysander stood up, although his shoulder burned like hell from the wound, and pointed the stick at the dragon as he attempted to keep his tears yet again at bay. "S-Stay back!"

The dragon once again grumbled. "Don't be ridiculous kid. What are you going to do with a stick?"

"I-I will hurt you," the boy was trembling from head to foot, but somehow he still stood his ground. "I will poke out your eye!"

"Uh-huh. And how is it wise to reveal your card to the enemy?"

Instead of answering the dragon, Lysander squared his shoulders and raised the stick again a little higher. "Don't underestimate me!" I had nothing to lose... was what he was about to add... but that thought almost made the tears fall and he didn't need that now. 

"Relax, kid." the dragon's voice was weary now. "I don't eat humans. You folks don't even taste good."

"Eh?! I taste good too, you big-" realizing what he had just said, the little boy's hands flew to his mouth and his eyes widened in impossible size. 

He heard the dragon growl. "Are you trying to tempt me now?"

Lysander trembled even more when the dragon moved forward and its head was now just a few inches away from him, again the child tried not to show his fear and also to not let his tears fall. He gulped when the dragon opened its mouth slightly... and then all he felt was a giant breath hitting his already fragile body.

...And he fell on his butt.

It was all it took for the child to finally give in to his fears and start bawling his eyes out, his cries echoing through the mountain they were standing in. He was scared, he was hurt, he was hungry... and he wanted his mama, his papa, his big sister.

The dragon breathed again in what looked like an exasperated huff... and then reached out with one of its paws, wrapping it carefully around the boy's body and pulling him closer.

"Uh... there there kid." it attempted to comfort the child but it was obviously not good at it. "You're quite brave for a human child."

"I-I'm not," the boy wailed as he brought his hands to rub his eyes, sobs tearing through his chest. "I-I couldn't even protect my family... m-my sister..."

"You couldn't do anything. Those dragons were some of the worst of our kind." Maybe it wasn't making it any better... so the dragon decided to change tactics. "Let's start this over, shall we? I am Weisslogia, the White Dragon. What is your name?"

Lysander hicked, trying to find his voice. "Lys-..." he stopped, and averted his eyes. "Sting. My name is Sting Eucliffe."

The dragon cocked its head to a side. Even among humans, as far as it knew, this was a pretty strange name... It decided not to comment on that though, since it already had a traumatized kid in its hands... "Alright... Sting Eucliffe... as long as you are with me, you are going to be safe."

~.~.~.~

He hadn't been aware of it until now, but Sting felt the tears wetting his cheeks as he came to the end of his story. Someone small came to his side then, and he felt Rin wrapping her arms around his middle, hugging him tightly. Somehow, he couldn't explain how... but her presence was reassuring.

Blinking himself back to reality, he used one hand to clean his face, now all tear stained - not that he cared much about others seeing him cry, it wasn't the first time it happened - while the other reached for Rin and caressed her head softly.

"Sad stories apart..." he finally said regaining his composure, he would ask questions later. "We lost too much time with this book, we still need to find what the client wants."

They suddenly heard a soft laugh coming from the top of the library's stairs, drawn to it the group looked up to see it was none other than the Master of Fairy Tail, Makarov.

"That's where you are wrong young man," he walked downstairs and soon reached the group. "That is exactly what I wanted you brats to find, more specifically you, young Master."

"Master..." Lucy mumbled. "W-Wait! That means you are the client?!"

"I am not understanding anything!!" Natsu cried out while he scratched his head with both hands.

Sting ignored his fellow Dragon Slayer and continued looking at Makarov. "How did you...?"

"Heh, I made my research after I saw the name of your sister in the book. Turns out there hasn't been a single person more bearing your surname since her, all it took was to do some math... and the knowledge that Lyanna-san made it so that only the Eucliffe family descendants could read it. My family is descendant from yours."

There was a silence as Sting looked back at the book, brushing the photo of his sister carefully. The moment though was broken with Natsu approaching them with a mocking face while he sneered.

"Well well well... so that means your real name is Lysander..."

Before the Light Dragon Slayer could reply in the appropriate manner though... Lucy was on her boyfriend, holding him by his ear and yanking him away through the doors of the library. "Are you a moron?! How can you be so inconsiderate, that was a touching moment!" 

"How am I supposed to let him live this down?! Hey, Lysander, let's do this again sometime, this. was. fun! And hey, does it make you Gramps’..."

Makarov sighed in frustration and closed his eyes as their voices faded away. "I should apologize for Natsu... him and manners don't go hand in hand. But you are welcome to keep the book if you so wish, Master Sting. It is your right, after all."

The blond looked at the book longingly, but after a minute of indecision... left it on the top of the railings. "It was enough for me, what it had to offer... thank you very much." he said sincerely. He didn't know what else to say, and it was kind of a lot to take in that he was related to the Dreyars...

"So that was why you had been acting weird all this time..." Rogue remarked, his tone decidedly more understanding.

"Yeah... I'm sorry for making you guys worry."

"If you're apologizing then it is another cause of concern." 

"Give me a break, will you?" Sting sighed... he couldn't be sure if with all these revelations, whether he would have a peace of mind any time soon... "Well in any case, let's get going. I still have a lot of paperwork to do."

"You can't be serious!" The blond raised an eyebrow at his friend's outburst. "That's all you can think about even now? Who are you and what did you do to the real Sting?!"

"C'mon man, you always complain about me leaving the official stuff to you."

Rin giggled softly at their antiques as she followed the Twin Dragon Slayers out of the library. Just at the doors though, she glanced back and her eyes met with Fairy Tail's master. She could've sworn that she saw Makarov-san wink at her. Feeling heat came to her cheeks, the young girl let the doors close behind her.

[hanjizung]

𝕂𝕚𝕟𝕜𝕥𝕠𝕓𝕖𝕣  𝕕𝕒𝕪  𝟙𝟚:   𝕝𝕚𝕟𝕘𝕖𝕣𝕚𝕖.

Felix x Reader.

Word count: 1.5k

♡ Warnings ♡: established relationship, smut, lingerie, fingering.

【ｐｒｅｖｉｏｕｓ　ｄａｙ　||　ｎｅｘｔ　ｄａｙ】

【Ｋｉｎｋｔｏｂｅｒ　ｍａｓｔｅｒｌｉｓｔ】

Felix had downloaded yet another one of the newest games that was famous on the internet.

You were happy to see him have fun, but he got so immersed in it that his life started to focus only on that game. He had no time for you anymore, everyday becoming the same routine.

He came back from work, ate dinner with you and then left to go 'shower' while he made you clean the table to turn on his pc in the studio room and update the game if needed, staying awake for hours playing and then heading to sleep.

The studio room was a big mistake, you realized. You thought you would be able to spend time there together, but Felix made it his personal man cave. Not a single time did you step in that room voluntarily, only when it was late and you had to drag Felix to bed to make him sleep.

You felt like a mother taking care of a teenage son who was obsessed with video games, not like a woman living together with her boyfriend.

That's why you decided it was time to take cards into the matter and intervitate with his addiction with that particular game.

You tried not having dinner ready to cook with him, but he opted to call for the nearest pizza place and have it delivered, waiting for it to arrive at the studio and telling you to please receive it. That was the first strike.

Then, you decided to be out all day, calling some of your friends to go dance with them in a girl's night outing, and all Felix said was 'have fun, baby girl. I'll stay awake waiting for you.'

Anr you were actually annoyed that he did wait awake for you. In the studio room, playing the game and only welcoming you back when you told him you were going to sleep. That was strike two.

You had a last idea to get his mind off the game,it was inspired by a trend on tiktok that was about taking off your towel in front of your partner while they played and film their reactions. But you had a twist to that.

Instead of going naked, you would be wearing his favorite lingerie, a matching pastel pink bra and thong with white thigh high stockings that you knew drove him crazy. I'd that disntger his attention from the game, you didn't know what else to do.

Felix came back from work, complimenting your outfit that allowed him to see the stockings under your dress as you had dinner together. He seemed more talkative that night, participating more in the conversation and making you all sort of question. You hoped that was a clue, meaning that you were doing things the right way.

He finished, helping you clean the table and then going straight to the studio room. He stopped showering before playing when he shamelessly stepped into the room to turn on the pc, so that was the time to execute your plan.

You were going to give him some time, walking to your shared bedroom and started to put on some makeup. It had been a long time since you last got ready to be on a date with him, so why not try and doll yourself up for a little? You fixed your hair, put on natural looking makeup and took off your clothes, except for the lingerie that covered you.

You made your way to Felix's hideout, knocking on the door before opening when Felix said 'come in.' There he was, all focused on the screen and clicking the buttons on the keyboard, groaning in frustration when his character died.

He stopped looking at the screen, turning to look at you while he opened a water bottle, his mouth hung open as he caught sight of you all dolled up for him. You smiled, opening your arms to hug him and straddling his lap, pressing your lips against him and kissing him passionately. The match on the game behind you was still going, neither of you caring.

"Are you gonna stop playing the game now? I've missed you, Felix" you said after you pulled away from him. He made you sit on his lap and returned his attention to the screen when a new match started, losing the previous one for being afk, the chat in the game calling him a thrower, the enemy team thanking him for letting them win.

"Just let me finish this one game and then I'm all yours, angel" you hummed, acknowledging him that you listened to his words. You made yourself comfortable on his lap, looking how he pressed the keyboard and flipped the mouse to accumulate kills and get the win for his team. He was so experienced with his fingers, knowing what to press and what ability he needed to help his team win. And then it hit you why he was so good using his fingers with you.

Seeing how he used them made you needy, his fingers danced through the buttons so beautifully, it made you want to have them deep inside you.

Without thinking, you placed your hand on top of the one he was holding the mouse with. He didn't say anything, so you left it there allowing him to move under your hand, staring at how he moved in the game. But he displayed the game's menu, and said:

"My teammates are gonna hate me for this, but fuck it. I don't care, I can't have you wearing this and sitting on my lap pretending like I don't want to fuck you numb" he exited the match, closed the game and allowed his hands to roam on your body, tracing the lingerie you were wearing with his fingertips. He rested his chin on your shoulder, one of his hands slowly going down and slipping past your lacy panties to touch you right where you needed him to touch you, pinching your clit carefully and making you moan, spreading your legs to give him more access to your sex.

You threw your head back, focusing on how Felix passed his fingers through your folds, his middle finger teasing your entrance making you sigh, meanwhile his other hand was busy squeezing your boob and pinching your nipple through the delicate material of your bra.

Just when you were about to tell him to stop teasing you, Felix inserted one of his digits inside your wet pussy, making you moan. It wasn't the part you wanted to have inside you, but it worked just fine.

"You're so tight, Y/N, God I hadn't realized how much I've missed you" you smiled after hearing his words but your face suddenly changed when he inserted another finger and started making scissoring moves.

Rubbing your clit with his thumb while he inserted and removed his fingers from you felt good, it gave you the pleasure you were craving since he downloaded that damn game. Your legs were now completely spread, resting on the armrests of the chair, one of your hands was holding Felix's cheek after being tangled on his hair before, while your other hand held his thigh to support you on the chair as you squirmed, victim of the pleasure your boyfriend was providing you with.

When he found your G-spot you almost screamed, holding tighter on his thigh, your walls clenching around him meaning that your release was just about to happen.

"You want to cum already, princess? Seems like you really missed me and didn't touch yourself. Such a good girl you are, so beautiful, waiting for me to give you the pleasure you need" he whispered against your ear, tone low and deep like he knew would drive you crazy. You just needed his permission to come undone, resisting the need of releasing your climax.

"Cum for me, angel" and you did, your juices covering his fingers as you moaned his name, a form to thank him for finally giving you the attention you needed.

"That was good, Felix, but I really need to have your cock inside me" you cried out, removing one of your legs from where it was and turning to look at him with pleading eyes.

"This is only the start, princess. I'm also dying to be inside you, feel how you take me so well. Let's go to the bedroom and continue there, hmm? What do you say?" you stood up, supporting yourself on the desk in front of you before making your way to your next destination, waiting for your legs to stabilize so you could walk on your own.

But Felix had no patience, throwing you over his shoulder as if you were a sack of potatoes and making you laugh.

"I don't think I can wait for any longer, I need you so badly" he explained. You passed one of his hands through his locks.

"No need to hurry, Lix. We have all night available"

"Then I hope you started praying already because I'll fuck you until you can’t walk tomorrow."

[helenazbmrskai]

title ‹ Christmas bribery ›

pairing ‹ soldier!seokjin x oc ›

genre ‹ Christmas/holiday au, strangers to lovers, fluff, angst but barely there ›

summary ‹ This is the first time you can’t go home and celebrate Christmas with your family so your mom makes sure you don’t spend the holidays alone happy to learn that Seokjin, your mother’s best friend’s son is taking his annual leave near the 22nd of December from Military services. This story is about the biggest Christmas bribery of the century. ›

warnings ‹ swear words here and there, bad puns? ›

word count ‹ 6.2k ›

notes. I’m here to deliver a light read to set the mood for the holidays and I hope all of you will enjoy it as much as I enjoyed the process of writing it. In this Christmas collab, I had the chance to meet with these amazing people so I’m sharing this story as a gift and as a thank you!

this is part of the Christmas fic collab that was suggested by @kooala​ please check out the masterpost and enjoy every story we share! 

”You did what?!” I feel dizzy due to the sudden movement of my body jerking up in a sitting position, crisscrossing my legs under me as my hand holds up the phone to my right ear a little bit more pressingly after hearing the breaking news. That she tells me with a singing tone sounding so excited but I can’t seem to share her sentiments as the bewilderment decorating my voice is in sharp contrast with the silence that settled on the cosy apartment like a thick feather-filled duvet. Nibbling on my thin lips I locate the single gingerbread scented candle on my desk still illuminating the interior of my messy bedroom the flames licking up the walls and disappearing near the ceiling, creating pretty shapes and lights over the dull paint, it helps me regain my composure before I realise that mom is not yet finished talking.

”Well he needed a place to stay and busses won’t go out because of the upcoming storm his apartment is in Daegu and I’m sure he’ll be tired from the flight.” Flicking on the lights I take in the sight, clothes piled up on the chair’s armrest whilst dirty plates littering every usable surface, fuck, if my room looks like a pigsty I don’t want to imagine how the other rooms are looking right now.

I was so immersed in doing great on my finals that I don’t think I cleaned the space up for a while.

I should start doing my laundry so I have something to wear as I already look to be out of clean t-shirts inspecting the pile of unwashed jeans and other garments, momentarily embarrassed to see I’m also out of room to place new dirty clothes on top of all these.

”What are you implying mother?” Pursing my lips, I honestly start to lose her train of thoughts as her rant goes on and my eyes wander over the state my apartment is in after stressful weeks but knowing her ways she’ll start with building on my conscience until she realises that I’m no longer an unsuspecting five-year-old girl and she’ll pull out the big guns and dust off her bribing skills.

Whatever her plan is, she always makes me go accordingly no matter how much I try to resist or protest and I feel a knot form in my throat at that. If this is about my non-existent dating life again that she called me to discuss in the dread of the night, I swear I’m gonna flip a table or something.

”You remember Sunha’s eldest son?” Answering back with a question as she often likes to do, doesn’t throw me off balance as it used to.

I’m long ago accustomed to getting her ways to twist the conversation to her favour so I’m ready to fire back my reply in the same form matching her up. ”How is your best friend’s son has to do with any of this?” Utterly confused by the mention, that must lace my tone since she lets a lightsome laugh bubble up in her chest I can picture her dimples are showing in full display because of it.

”Did you even pay attention to a word I said?” She sounds more amused than accusing, letting me know that she actually doesn’t mind how my head gets airy sometimes, her playfulness earns a groan from my side of the line, it’s getting pretty late and I have not enough brain cells left for her mind games.

”Spit it out, mom. You know I love you but I had a rough week so spare me of your wicked schemes.” I breathe out the words orbs closing involuntarily as I rest my head against the door frame. Where was I going anyway?

Maybe I should go for a hot chocolate before bed.

It’ll be weird not seeing my family for the holidays but I don’t want my mom to worry about me so I made sure to be extra cheerful all the time when she called only ignored her attempts of reaching me like one or two times as I had to study for two last exams and now that I can finally relax the exhaustion seems to catch up to me. I’m fine being on my own, making food and seasonal sweets while I watch tv without any interruptions, sounds like an excellent plan for Christmas, not caring how loud my music is or how bad my singing voice is under the shower.

No family means sweet alone time awaits, no one will tell me to go to sleep and I didn’t need to worry what kind of a present I should purchase at least for a little while.

”Do you remember Seokjin or not Y/N? This conversation will last longer if you don’t cooperate with me.” I can practically see her eye roll directed at me in front of my eyes despite she’s twenty miles away from here, wishful thinking on my part that she’ll let this conversation go if I ask her to stop beating around the bush.

”I don’t know. Maybe?” A fragment of my memory is triggered by hearing his name, and a scenario appears out of nowhere that was a few years ago in Sunha’s second marriage ceremony as I stand in a pastel lavender dress.

Mother was otherworldly happy for Sunha that day she dragged me with her as she chatted away mixing with the guests until we settled down to our table - when the cake cutting took place - that consisted of the bride and groom themselves and close family members like Sunha’s sons and his significant other’s daughter and, of course, my mother and I was present too.

I remember sitting down and just looking ahead aimlessly when I locked gazes with a handsome man his posture was immaculate and he seemed happy for his mother but couldn’t hide how restlessly he fidgetted in his seat, his eyes couldn’t settle watching only one thing, he even looked skittish as he jumped in his seat when the girl sitting on his left tried to catch his attention. Our eye contact lasted less than five seconds and his presence remained for thirty minutes at most as he apologised to her mother and everyone at the table since he had some urgent affairs to attend to.

I probably looked shocked for the reason that mom whispered the words into my ear when he left so suddenly to make sense of things. ”That’s Jin, her eldest son he serves in the army he probably couldn’t get a full day off because of his duties.” After humming in an understanding gesture I fixed my gaze onto the cake slice in front of me.

I remember that man clearly but with purpose, I don’t elaborate further than that, so she doesn’t have the compromitting piece of information to latch onto and make it a bigger issue. She would be elated to know I do remember Kim Seokjin, well, he’s hard to forget in the first place, he smiled only once as his mother hugged him at the table and even if it lasted for less than a second the expression was captivating. Howbeit if she tells me that she organised a date with him I’m going to slam my head to the closest hard surface I can tell. He’s so out of league and dating someone with such a dangerous profession at that, it’s not going to work, doesn’t matter how much I find him attractive and charming.

”It doesn’t matter I guess. You two could get to know each other eventually as he’ll stay at your apartment.” She drops the bomb before disconnecting the call, she doesn’t even wait for my protests this time around. A groan leaves my lips while I look around the house promptly throwing my phone to land on my bed in the means of letting out some of my frustration. I need to get going and make this house presentable again, that hot chocolate needs to wait I guess.

 from: unknown number

[7.22 AM] Hi it’s Seokjin. My plane will take off at 9ish can you send me your address?

 Grabbing my phone from the kitchen counter I open the message from the unknown number the device almost slips through my fingertips as I rake my eyes over the content hesitant about how to reply I turn to my friend who so generously offered her help to tidy up my living space a little before my unrequested guest arrives. With a broom in her hand, she looks back at my weird facial expression.

”What is it? It’s him?” Gaun asks abandoning her cleaning tools to read the message as well peaking over my shoulder in order to do that. ”He sounds so uptight even in text. Brr.” She shakes her shoulders in simple displeasure that earns an eye roll from me, it’s not that he’ll send hearts when our encounter was years ago for like five seconds. Honestly, I’m surprised that mom and Sunha were able to talk him into this in the first place.

”He’s a soldier Gaun and on the contrary, we don’t know each other he has no reason to be friendly.” Gnawing on my lower lip I click on the message to reply, typing a few lines before I deleted it and rewrote it before hitting send.

 [7.34 AM] Hey of course. Call me if you don’t find your way.

[7.34 AM] *google map link attached*

 from: Seokjin

[7.35 AM] I will thank you

 ”Let’s hurry up we don’t have that much time.” I place the phone back on the counter resuming my cleaning and Gaun starts to swipe the floor where she left off all the while I can hear the washing machine work in the distance.

 I could feel my heartbeat in the pit of my stomach when the doorbell finally rang and at the other side of the door, there’s Kim Seokjin in all of his glory, that handsome soldier I got a sneak peek at his mother’s wedding wearing a formal suit and tie combo that he pulled of so nicely. I wipe my hands with a towel leaving the leftover plates in the sink as I rush to open the door for him.

”Hi.” I greet him with a friendly smile plastered on my face, I have to tilt my chin upwards to meet his eyes, he’s even taller than I remembered and he’s wearing his military uniform. My hold on the doorknob tightens how unfairly handsome he is with his hair parted in both sides leaving his forehead uncovered his uniform is well fitted and compliments the curves of his waist and thighs the cherry on top is his platform jet black boots that matches with the colour of his hair that I love so much.

A well trained German Sheppard sits near his foot with his tongue out as soon as I crouch down to pet him so focused on the animal that I almost don’t catch Seokjin’s timid ’hello’ in return, the dog’s tail starts to wag furiously seeing my face at his eye level he throws me off balance as he marches forward for more pets.

”I’m sorry he’s not normally like this.” The handsome boy offers a hand to help me up with a sheepish look, I accept the extended hand with a faint blush ignoring the pain that shoots up to my ass because of the impact with the floor. His hand is bigger than mine as it gets fully enveloped in his warm ones.

”Mom didn’t tell me you have a dog,” I chuckle lightly as I pet the dog’s head one last time unsure what to do with my hand that he no longer holds. ”I mean, she didn’t tell me much just told me you’ll come today.” His unique laugh sounded nice ringing in my ears, it made me smile up at him as he playfully shook his head. It’s weird how relaxed I feel around his presence when I was shaking with nerves just moments prior, and I’m still not entirely comfortable with him but his whole aura has a calming effect on my body. I don’t think I’ve ever met with someone that makes me feel so at ease when it’s basically our first meeting.

”Yeah, well, I think we both got played by our mothers.” I have to agree on that one with him. Realising that we’re still standing in front of my entrance I beckon him to come inside stepping out of the way so he could easily slide his luggage beside him his dog’s paws leave imprints on the clean floor but I don’t mind it as he looks so excited about everything inside sniffing and exploring while Jin tries to make him behave scratching his neck when his dog doesn’t seem to listen to a single word.

”Sorry he’s making a mess.” Seokjin apologises seeing the muddy paw marks after connecting our eyes for a few seconds he follows the steps into the kitchen. ”No Cookie that’s not food for you.” The young soldier immediately runs after his companion when he tries to steal the cinnamon rolls from the kitchen counter and I can’t help but laugh at the sight as he scolds the dog.

This is going to be an interesting holiday season I can already tell.

 ”I can’t believe this fucking jar.” I contemplate to smash it against the counter after spouting several curse words when a hand landed on mine directly on the jar’s lid, I feel Cookie’s fur brush against my exposed leg having enough evidence to know who’s this arm belongs to and I turn around in a moment of weakness. Jin’s hair rests on the top of his head in a messy style sweat dampening the ends.

”Need some help?” His eyes hold a childlike glow in them as he brushes his fingers against mine replacing my digits with his and the lid pops easily in his hands.

I can’t say this display of physical strength doesn’t make him even more attractive in my eyes I barely pay attention to the fact that he stands so close I can feel his chest meet mine as we breathe handing back the opened strawberry jam.

”Thanks.” I hastily turn to avoid his gaze even though that doesn’t offer much advantage as he leans closer pushing his chest against the line of my back watching as my hands spread the jam over the walnut biscuits.

”Want a taste?” Feeling bolder than usual I face him again holding up a finished treat to his mouth, Jin makes a surprised sound in the back of his throat but parts his lips obediently letting me slip the food between his teeth.

”I’ll leave as a stuffed chicken if you keep feeding me these delicious treats.” Despite the indication, he doesn’t seem against the food I offer as he tries to steal one more from the plate but I pull his hand away curling my fingers around his wrist.

”Let me finish before you devour my hard work you pig.” I roll my eyes watching his childlike antics, he seems to take pleasure in riling me up from time to time. It’s been two days since he and his companion Cookie arrived and things just worked out smoothly Jin is a nice person with horrendous jokes but he does help out a lot around the apartment he even fixed my broken ladder so we can decorate the Christmas tree that he insisted we need to purchase when I told him I was not going to go all out and celebrate this year. After all, I was supposed to be here on my own.

He’s so used to training at headquarters that he leaves every morning to run for an hour before he comes back all sweaty and satisfied finding me eating my breakfast or drinking my coffee it doesn’t matter what’s in my hands he always needs to get the last bites from it. He’s really not good for my heart.

”Since you’re doing the sweets how about I make us lunch today?” Jin asks excitedly resting his head on top of mine gently careful not to put too much weight on me, my heart speeds up at the sweet gesture not trusting my words so I nod instead. One of these days I can’t wrap my head around his intentions, he looks so nonchalant as he does things like resting his head on me or patting my knee when we watch tv together with Cookie curled around us on the couch.

”I can’t work like this.” I use the excuse to separate our bodies, is it just me or the kitchen is getting hotter by every passing second, or it’s just my cheeks heating up due to his body moulding perfectly with mine. It doesn’t help either that I remember he’s sweaty under his shirt after his daily exercise smelling nice when he probably shouldn’t have. I busy my hands to glue the biscuits together with the jam moving slightly to the side a little further from Jin’s warm body, he doesn’t say anything else as he decides to leave the kitchen Cookie stays for the sake of finishing his meal before going on a quest to find his owner leaving me behind with my thoughts.

I wrap things up quickly after that, placing the treats in the middle so Cookie can’t reach it and clean up the jam stains before retreating to my room.

It’s a pleasant surprise to check my phone and see that my mom tried to reach me an hour ago, she’s up uncharacteristically early. Too curious to find out what she wants I dial her number without a second thought, it’s been three days that she called and that time she told me Jin will stay at my place until he has to go back to the army. Whenever I think about that a frown seems to climb its way up to my expression I got used to seeing him around the house that I tend to forget he won’t be around when the new year comes and it’s scary to think about how attached I feel to him or rather how lonely I’ll feel once this is all over. He’s a busy man in general and serving under the Military’s name means he can’t be here when I need him, it would be as painful in the long run as a long-distance relationship would be. Not that I assume he’s interested in me that way.

”Hey mom sorry I didn’t hear your call. Is everything alright?” I press my phone to my left ear, closing the door behind with the help of my foot before sitting down at the edge of my bed. Seokjin’s low hum and the sound of pots and pans indicate that he started soon after I left the kitchen, it’s early to start lunch already but Jin is always restless like that.

He needs to find things to do or fix because he gets bored easily, he told me that when I picked up on his punctuality that he always has to move like a clockwork at the base he developed a habit of making use of himself and he needs to constantly do things to keep his restless energy at bay so he can sleep well at night.

He wakes up exactly at six in the morning every day even without setting up his alarm. I think it’s endearing when he thumps his foot absentmindedly even if he’s watching a movie he’s interested in, legs spread wide in a comfortable position on the sofa, his body just never relaxes completely.

”Yes dear I called early to say Merry Christmas to my baby!” I giggle in response hearing her excitement conveyed through her voice. ”I hope you enjoy your Christmas present.” Her tone turned suggestive and my laughter died down, heat rose to my cheeks and my thoughts spiralled to Seokjin’s direction.

”What’s that supposed to mean?” I glance at the door listening for the noises to make sure Jin can’t hear my flustered tone, he’s still in the kitchen and that helps me relax a little until my mom’s knowing hum filled the silence in the conversation.

”Are you getting on well with Jin right? He’s a real sweetheart so treat him nice ok?” Can’t help but all the more agree with her, he’s very considerate and funny, I think he’s the one who’s treating me nice even though I supposed to be the host, he helps out a lot and good company to be around. He sometimes misplaces my things like moving plates to a higher shelf when he knows I can’t reach it there without his help and he cracks terrible jokes that I secretly like very much and Cookie is the apple of my eye already, I think he listens to me more than he listens to Jin at this point (there might be a tiny connection that I often give him special treats during his owner's absence) and I found it hilarious as he sulks on the couch calling his dog a ’traitor’ when he decides to rest his head on my lap instead of Seokjin’s.

Little things like that make me like Seokjin more and more with each passing day.

”I’m treating him just fine mom he said he gained weight since his arrival blaming it on me, don’t worry and enjoy the holidays with dad, after all, it’s the first time that you two could celebrate with just him after so long.”

”Will do darling. I hope you’ll have a wonderful time as well I know that finals were stressing you out so I hope that you are able to relax now.” We deemed the conversation finished after wishing each other happy holidays again and for once I feel like I can mean my words as I feel relaxed around a certain someone.

”Want to place the star on top?” Jin shoved the decoration piece in front of my face whilst I placed food on the coffee table to feast upon as we watch classic Christmas movies until we can’t keep our eyes open since it’s the first day of Christmas.

”I’m not stepping on that ladder you fixed, it looks like a death trap.” Eyeing all the nails and patches on the poor thing.

”If it can hold my weight so can yours.” Jin states the facts, placing the star into my opened palm with a mischievous grin. ”I’ll hold you so don’t be a baby and decorate with me, it’s not as fun doing it alone.” That pout, dangerous and he knows that I can’t possibly say no to that when he asks me so nicely with that adorable full lips of his.

”If I fall I’m dragging you with me, just saying.” I keep our eye contact to get my point across with a meaningless glare, the corners of my lips twitch to morph into a smile hearing his happy chuckles using that moment to turn to the ladder taking the first step up the stair the scent of Jin’s aftershave hit my sensitive nose feeling his hands curve around my hip squeezing my sides to reassure me he’s here to catch me. I can blame my wobbly legs because of the shaky ladder or on my fear of high places but I can’t fool myself that the delicate shake that overpowers my body is because of the excitement I feel as I daydream about his hands on different parts of my body. It feels nice to be held by him.

”Hold on for deer life then.” A fond smile appears on my face hearing him laugh on the pun he just told me, forget my inner turmoil in the meantime placing the star to add the last piece before we declare it’s complete.

I almost can’t mask the look of disappointment I feel when he lets me go once my feet are planted on the ground the star placed on top.

”Told you it’s safe. I’m here to keep you in one piece, sugar.” His hand landing on the top of my head, caressing my hair for the time length of two outdrawn strokes before he lets his fingers fall beside his body to prop around his hips observing the tree with so much excitement that he failed to see my blush due to the pet name that probably just slipped out without any meaning behind it.

”No Cookie it’s not yours love.” I catch him before he can bite a big chunk out of our late night dinner as we’re not paying attention, it created an opportunity for him that he would’ve been foolish to disregard.

”Cheeky pretty thing just like his owner, huh?” It slips out as I pet Cookie’s head kneading the soft short furs around his ears that he knocks our heads together in beaming excitement because of the affection.

”Cookie really likes you Y/N.” The affectionate gaze he looks at me with knocks the air out of my lungs, it sounded like for a split second that he means he likes me too. Wishful thinking I remind myself before looking away clearing my throat to get things started plopping down onto the couch with a big huff leaving my lips.

”I’m starving, get your fat ass over here so we can watch Grinch.” I beam at him acting like his previous comment doesn’t hit hard as I pull my plate closer taking a bite out of the grilled chicken.

”How rude-olf of you!” He fakes his crocodile tears but as his ass hits the fluffy blanket nearly ripping my hot cocoa out of my hands it doesn’t seem like he’s feeling an ounce of hurt over my words. It’s silent for a while as we bash under the Christmas lights our faces illuminated by the tv munching on our food and sweets laid out before us Cookie resting on the rug near our feet.

”It’s been a while since I had such a nice Christmas.” Jin sighs burrowing his face onto my shoulder I can feel his breath fan over my skin the movie is long forgotten as I let his words sink in. Tired to fight the urge I tilt my head to rest it against his the moment appears to be too intimate for strangers let alone friends. ”You smell nice too.” I feel his nose around my neckline turning further into me as he inhales the scent of my hair, maybe it’s because it’s getting late but I let the feelings wash over me.

”Did you drink from my mother’s ’secret Santa’ labelled punch or something? I told you she’s a witch when it comes to alcoholic beverages.” I laugh lightheartedly and Jin follows suit hitting my left thigh when his laugh makes me laugh harder that results in my stomach twisting in pain from all the giggling even so as he starts to tickle me to take his revenge. He manhandles me with ease as he pins my wrists with one hand over my head ticking my torso with the other straddling my hip so he can restrict my squirming under him.

”You’re stronger! That’s not fair Jin.” I whine under his crushing weight, cheeks flushed from the exercise and his close proximity an innocent smile lits up his entire face as he regards me under his form, the Christmas lights are illuminated in his dark orbs creating a pretty image of him. Hair sticking to every questionable direction full lips stretched to house his angelic smile warm radiating from his body so close to mine.

I wish this moment could last forever.

”What are you thinking about?” Tilting his head in question he looks into my eyes with a fierce expression, I gulp not knowing to say the truth or come up with something on the spot. I decided it’s time for the truth.

”That I..” My sentence gets interrupted by Cookie’s barking I haven’t realised that he around the time we were occupied left his spot and watched us with curious eyes. He licked both of our faces as soon as he had the attention and Jin got up from the couch to pet him as Cookie nudged him with his nose to show him his empty bowl.

Maybe it’s a sign that I shouldn’t. Right. What was I thinking? Seokjin is never home he serves the country all the time, married to his work to the extent that he has no time left for himself, he doesn’t have the capacity to form a serious relationship with me and he’s probably not looking for love either.

It’s for the best that we separate after the new year.

 I formed a plan after almost confessing my love for him to avoid any other scenarios like this in the future, to be honest, I hated it but there’s no other way for me to get over him quickly even if my heart told me I should enjoy my little time left with him I choose to ignore his attempts at spending quality time with me.

If he asked for a movie night I told him I was busy or tired I took my meals to my room telling him that I need to pick up my studying schedule for the next semester, I had the most ridiculous reasons and I’m sure he figured me out after the second time I dismissed our plans and I can’t say seeing him hurt over my words and futile attempts at lying doesn’t felt like I was stabbed with a dozen knives into my heart.

I should have stopped myself before I got too deep because now I’m hurting both of us even if he’s only mourning for a lost friend.

A scratching noise interrupted the flow of my thoughts I tiptoe all the way to the door looking around before my eyes land on a restless Cookie. He reminds me so much of his owner but he normally stays with Jin I wonder what is he doing here scratching on my door. Is he out perhaps?

”What’s wrong? You seem sad.” I crouch to his level so I can caress his fur and his tail begin to wag instantly when I pull back Cookie grabs my sleeve with his teeth careful not to hurt me before he pulls me out of my room. I try to regain my footing but he pulls me harder until my door shuts behind my back.

”Cookie. What’s up with you suddenly?” I ask him even if I know there’s no reply to wait for I observe his body language before realisation lit up in my round orbs. ”You want me to follow you somewhere sweetheart?” Hearing that he let go suddenly making me lose my balance and collide with the floor cushioning the hit with my butt just like the first time I met him when he nearly run me over with excitement. He tumps his foot as he walks away hardly leaving enough time to catch up to him. He sits down in front of Seokjin’s door, or precisely the guest room he occupies for a short period I remind myself. My eyes soften after noticing it’s his way of showing that he doesn’t want us to part in bad terms. He’s smart.

I take in a deep breath mulling over if I should talk to Jin but looking at Cookie’s hopeful eyes I can’t possibly turn around and ignore this anymore. Jin deserves a better explanation than just accepting the fact one day I ghosted him.

I raise my hand to knock on his door when I hear his voice, he’s talking to someone over the phone since I didn’t hear the front door opening or closing that would mean we have a guest and I don’t think he would invite someone here without discussing it with me, no matter if we are in speaking terms or not.

”I don’t know what happened. I thought we are good but then the next day she didn’t want to do anything with me. I’m confused.” Is he talking about me? To whom? I know eavesdropping is bad but I can’t make my body pull away from the door as I listen intently. I don’t hear what the person from the other side says only Jin’s answers that I’m able to make out as I press my ear to the smooth surface.

”Of course I tried talking to her mom! What if I said or did something that made her hate me? I don’t want to leave like this, we had so much fun. I don’t want it to end this way.” Jin groaned frustratedly while listening to his mom, hearing his voice so worried and tense talking to his loved one about me that knows me very well, I feel ten times worse for ignoring him without giving him an honest explanation.

”I like her mom, but maybe it’s already too late.”

Retreating to my room in sheer panic when he cuts the line to afraid to be caught to rationalise the words I overheard. He likes me too.

All this time I thought that my feelings are not reciprocated whilst in reality I’m just a big coward, I hid behind the fabricated words that his profession is something that doesn’t sit well with me and he has no time to have a girlfriend, but I never tried asking what he wanted. If he wanted to give us a chance or not.

These thoughts plagued my mind until I fall asleep that night, however, tomorrow will be something different.

”Good morning.” I greet Seokjin as he walks out with only his sweatpants on eyes puffy from sleep, he’s so startled by my voice that he jumps at least five centimetres above the ground and the chuckle I let out witnessing his fright confuses him more.

”Uh, good morning.” He replies, at last, passing my form to pull out a mug probably for his morning coffee but I have his fill in my hand while mine is placed on the counter next to my hip. ”The ghost of Christmas visited you last night or something?” Jin watches my form suspiciously but accepting the steaming cup of coffee with a soft ’thanks’ rolling off of his tongue.

”Something like that. Can we talk?” I meet his gaze shyly picking up on my nervous habit as I nibble on my lower lip his eyes soften up.

”Yeah, let’s sit.” He prompts and I nod following his figure to the dining table where we sit on the opposite sides of it. We drink our beverages in peace for a few minutes before I lick my lips nervously opening my mouth to talk.

”I like having you here Jin. This Christmas with you was wonderful even your bad puns are surprisingly funny.” The man in front of me giggles at that, hearing that I had fun with him dismissed some of his insecurities and he looks more relaxed sitting before me sipping on his drink occasionally, waiting.

”I’m sorry for ignoring you it was very childish of me and you deserve an explanation. If I’m being honest you scare me.” His eyebrows shoot up at the mention and I’m eager to make things clear. I don’t want him to take my words literally. ”Or maybe it’s me. I don’t know. But what I do know is that I like you a lot. It scares me because you’re a soldier and you’re never home and I would be so worried wondering about if you are safe.”

”Even if I say all of that I couldn’t make myself to unlike you because you’re funny bad pun or not, caring and affectionate and too good for this world...I just really like you.”

Shying away from his intense stare I choose to observe the rim of my mug watching the dark liquid swirl in my cup when a finger tapped on my chin to look up. The brightest smile adorned Jin’s face that is so close our noses almost touch.

”I normally hate to say that our moms were right all along but right now I’m just glad that they made us spend this Christmas together.” Seokjin’s forehead knocks against mine as we laugh, nodding subtly to avoid more damage as my smile spreads wider I notice how Jin’s eye keeps looking between my eyes and lips and I can’t wait for him to finally reduce the short distance closing my eyes to fully appreciate his finger caressing my jaw, cupping my face letting our breaths entangle for a short second before I get to taste the coffee on his lips.

[suffering-and-happy-about-it]

Nicole’s rambling: The Watch Dogs Problem

Hey, welcome to my TedX talk about one of the most ambitious games Ubisoft had ever released... And which, for most of the parts, flopped majestically - yet still has players who love it. One such player am I as well. (And I’m not coming back to the game because Raymond Kenney is my first VG crush, shut the hell up.)

I won't be dipping into the side activities (digital trips) and online mode, because I never clicked with it and I don't know much about these parts. And I don't wanna throw shit at the game because of something I don't know a single thing about. Here are my three biggest negatives in the game and the three biggest positives you should play it for.

Also: remember, this is my opinion and my opinion only. It's sure biased, non-professional, but I've played WD more than five times. FIVE. So it's not just blatant nitpicking, because, in its core, WD Is a game I love dearly.

@march-moon​, here you go! :)

Let’s sort out the negatives first so we can later praise the game for what it did well:

1. Predictable and dull AI of enemies (aka going John Wick mode).

Sure, the variety of said enemies is impressive, but... When you get a grenade launcher and some good shotgun, which you can do in the first hour of gameplay if you already know your way with the ctOS bank account system (LOOP IS WHERE THE MONEY'S AT), you're more or less untouchable for the rest of the game. Most conveniently, you're starting with a silenced gun and when you know around your way with the stealth system and focus, which slows time big time for those who might not know, you can clear out Rossi Fremont under two minutes. Why? Because the AI is just dumb and stupid most of the time.

Like, sure, the big-armed guys can be a pain in the ass for the first few encounters, but when you realize all you have to do is throw two grenades at them and fire as many bullets as you have at your disposal, they are dead immediately. And the same goes for the car chases. Until you unlock the almighty power of raising the bridges and blowing up the steampipes, these are just pain in the ass.

The first few ctOS scans and police chases, as well as the enemy chases, are fun. But when ctOS finds you after ten minutes of driving around like a mad man to dodge the shit, sending you off on a ten-minutes lasting chase which simply repeats itself. Let alone that you kill half of the city's population because you fuck up to turn your car.  

To close this point, it gets repetitive, especially with the gang hideouts fuckery.

2. Ubisoft lying not only about the game features, but also about the overall graphics.

This point kinda explains itself, doesn't it? It's a known fact that studios have tendencies to change their games/movies for marketing purposes - for example, Disney and Infinity War or Naughty Dog's 'The Last of Us (Part 2)'. But this being a usual marketing tactic doesn't mean that the consumer should keep their mouth shut when they don't agree with it.

Most noticeable Watch Dogs' fuck-up was an overall graphic downgrade, which, sure, is completely understandable when you have such a huge open-world game, but... Ubisoft showed you a potato mash and all you got was the potato (The biggest point that is made fun of are the trees - those who played the games know what I'm talking about.). 

Also, the enhanced graphics ARE coded in the game, but are not used due to something signed off as ‘playable compatibility’ as far as I can understand, so??

But... They did lie about the in-game features too. They promised a lot more than they delivered, like the bounty hunts and stuff... Where did that go, Ubisoft?

3. The side missions and the story.

Don't take it as such... In my opinion, some of the side missions are fun - at the start. We've talked about gang hideouts, but you have fixer-car-related gigs as well and the first ten of them is very immersive since you don't already know which type of the mission you're up to. Will you be pressured by the time limit? Will you have to race through the city in a car that you can't destroy too much, otherwise it can't be sold on the black market? Will you be a decoy for some other bad people doing bad things? But when you get through this phase... It's the same game system again and again, for 46 times, I think? And the villain convoys... Well. These are fun and refreshing each time, I have to say.

Every time, you can choose a different tactic to toy around with - will you catch up with the baddies sooner, turning this mission into an intense, tight chase experience? Or will you wait for them further on the road, toying around with explosives and guns? Sometimes, they slip past you, which leads to a chase around the city, sometimes you blow up all of the cars perfectly on time, A+. But... You mastered 1/3 types of side mission content.

As for the story, it's not the worst, but it isn't something super-memorable, lifechanging. I am not talking about the idea behind the story (the utopia of having the whole city lead by a system, which enables the corporation to control people's lives without them even knowing), I am talking about the Damien-Aiden-Lena revenge story. It's your daily revenge plot based on Aiden's niece dying in a car crashed after the car being shot at because of a failed job.

The first story mission is mind-blowing. You're thrown into the game and the first thing you have to do is to infiltrate a whole-ass stadium, which feels good, not gonna lie. And the 'prison-break sequence' is also memorable as well. But other than that, it gets real repetitive real fast. 'Follow this person', 'hack this thingy', 'kill this guy', 'tilly that person' and so on is present in every act of the story, which makes things kinda come across as boring after some time. It is what it is.

There are exciting in-game moments, like when Defalt is introduced to the bunch and hacks into the Bunker base, stealing all of your data. But sadly, these story masterpieces tend to be overlooked and not acted on, which takes off some of the immersion potentials. (I know that Defalt's story was saved for the DLC, so it's not the best proof.)

! BUT THAT DOESN'T MEAN THAT THE STORY DOESN'T HAVE GOOD BEATS !

Now, the well-made things for which you should DEFINITELY play this game:

1. Chicago being a videogame city that is alive and the 'collectibles' are extra fun.

Okay, okay, let me explain. Sure, Watch Dogs' Chicago isn't the best area ever constructed in an open-world game. But... The city feels alive, it is changing around you, it never stops. You can find people making out, talking bad about their friend who is not there, you can look into their day-to-day life via something called 'privacy invasion', where you just hack into a camera and... You hear mommy calming down her kid who is crying, you can watch two girls playing Wii, presumably, and many other every day encounters.

NPCs are answering to you being into the city - asking questions on the range from 'Is that the guy from the news?' to straightaway call the cops because you are a mass murderer probably. When you stand in the middle of a road, they honk at you; when you accidentally bump into them, they call you names. It's amazing... And profiling them is even more fun. You can find profiles ranging from 'author of poetry' to 'clinically confirmed pyromaniac' and 'searches for 'feet' on the internet'. This shit is just ridiculous.

But... It's the smallest details you'll fall in love with. You can get on the "L" and it takes you on a ride. You can ride in it for the whole day, or you can get off on the next stop. When you're in the Wards or near Rossi Fremont, you can find dudes just listening to rap, chatting. Some guys force flyers into other people's hands. You can have coffee. The rain somehow feels real, and the nighttime just steals your breath away - and so do the sunsets. There's a part of the city called 'Hobotown', where the local hobos live, there are secret poker tournaments.

Chicago in Watch Dogs is a city with so many minor details that you cant find each of them in one gameplay. In each gameplay, you'll find something new, something that just makes you chuckle - but it's so thoughtful of the developers to even put it in their game. These small details are the ones that make you feel as if you were inside the game, convincing you that the Chicago you're looking at is, indeed, alive.

Then, there are the 'collectibles'. I didn't know how to call it other than that, so bear with me for a minute. There are minor 'side-missions' - for example, you're going after a killer, who is leaving you audios on the places he left one of his victims. There are QR coded which unlock audios that talk about the DedSec hacktivists. In the small 'hack 5 routers in a time limit' quests, you are unlocking one of the Blume's employees audios (Angela Balik's), talking about the files Raymond Kenney had hidden in the code back in the day, talking about the uprising of the Bellwether 'crime' prediction system.

The collectibles aren't everyone's thing, of course, and it won't take any of the Chicago experience when you don't listen to the voicemails or if you simply don't collect them. But, they can immerse you in the game world even more. And to be honest, this is one of the few games that had my ass shook about collecting the additional thingies.

2. The character cast.

Let's be honest, Aiden Pearce on his own isn't the best protagonist in the world. Don't get me bad, I like this game a lot, but he can come across as boring at times. And that's exactly when the character cast comes in to balance Aiden's character. Most of the cast has some sort of an attribute which compels to Aiden's personality very well, completes him in some way.

You have Raymond Kenney, who is a paranoid, rowdy, alcoholic genius who helped with creating ctOS - but has remorse about his history, because he caused the Northeast blackout 2003, killing eleven people. Which can show Aiden how bad can the power over the ctOS system be.

There's Jordi Chin, a prestigious assassin/fixer, who uses the game's darkest humor. Every fucking second Jordi is on screen, it's captivating, immersive and you'll find yourself chuckling at Jordi's jokes, which are definitely out of place. But he still keeps reminding you that he's in for the money, which, in the end, turns against Aiden in a way.

Clara Lille, otherwise known as BadBoy17, is a hacktivist working for the rebellious DedSec who are rebelling against Blume, the company behind ctOS. She seems to be innocent of the violence of getting revenge, but later in the game, Aiden discovers how deeply she was invested in the whole story about Lena.

Each of the characters has a personal connection to Aiden, widening his personality in various ways. Which is funny to watch throughout the story - and there's a ton of other characters I didn't even get into, like Lucky Quinn, Nicky, Jackson, Bed Bug... The characters are simply terrific.

3. The overall soundtrack.

Hear me out, this point is kinda tricky, yeah? I am not talking about the official soundtrack. The radio has some blasts I fell in love throughout playing the game - whether it introduced me to song 'Ms. Crumby' by the Audition, or made me fall in love with the Vampire Weekend, Kid Cudi, or The Vindictives. Yet, in the case of the radio, I tend to sort out a playlist consisting of 4-6 songs (YES? YOU CAN MAKE PLAYLIST INSIDE THE GAME???) which I play on repeat throughout the game.

There's also this masterful thing about the soundtrack sometimes 'forcing' itself into your gameplay, maybe more like 'self-inserting' into the game if you will. The two most memorable encounters of this are when: a) when you're helping Ray Kenney leave the junkyard and Pawnee behind and the 'ring ding piety pow' hardcore metal song plays throughout the final encounter (Jesus Built My Hotrod by Ministry) and b) when you enter Rossi Fremont, the whole time you're going through the building, the rap/hip-hop is playing, making you feel gangsta. (I think it's a song by Wu-Tang Clan, not sure tho).

But... Then it hits you. The in-game hidden soundtrack that sadly wasn't released. At least not officially. It has a reason, worry not - this in-game soundtrack reacts to the player's progress throughout the missions, so it basically plays on a loop. Which is understandable.

The most standing out instance I can talk about is when you enter the small island where the old Blume secret place is hidden on. You and Clara are on a mission searching for legendary sacred place (at least for the hackers) called 'The Bunker'. And my friends... This is when it hits you. The soundtrack feels familiar even when you're playing the game for the first time. This piece just hits differently than any other soundtrack I've heard. Not even Time by Hanz Zimmer has this effect on me, and I LOVE the Inception.

And there's more - the piece of the soundtrack which plays when you're going after Jackson is probably another great example.

BONUS ROUND: 4. The Bad Blood (DLC)

Okay, this had a lot to do with my love for Raymond Kenney and I am not worried to say it out loud. But this DLC is truly a DLC. It only uses the WD world, which was set up in the OG game, as its base - but it isn't its main focus at all. This DLC introduces us to new characters as well as to some we knew already we knew.

In the OG game, Tobias is the mad hobo who sells us cool thingies to play with - and in they managed to show Tobias' full potential, showing us how smart and hilarious, as well as paranoid, this guy is in reality. It deepened Ray's character, revealed Defalt's motivations and the history that tied both of them to the Northeast blackout.

There are also new areas to explore, new things to play with and even if the DLC doesn't do anything too revolutionary with the game's world, it's the best DLC I've played. And I may have enjoyed it more than Aiden's story. But again, I'm pro-Kenney biased, so that's kinda expected of me, ain't it?

PS: I hate Sitara or whatever her name is.

[just-dreaming-marvel]

ONE HUNDRED FIFTY TWO - PETER (3)

LEGACY: A Tony Stark Daughter Story

FULL STORY MASTERLIST

ENDING THREE MASTERLIST

< previous

Word Count: 2,120ish

Summary: Bailey tries to reach out to Peter.

~~~

Four months later…

Bucky and I were still going strong. Everyone was extremely supportive of our relationship and Bucky and I actively worked to gather to help each other cope with our pasts. Morgan was the most supportive about our relationship, at least vocally. Her and Bucky were constantly up to no good. Steve and I’s friendship still wasn’t where either of us wanted it to be, but we kept trying. I had basically given up on trying to get Peter to open up to me, believing that he’d come to me in time.

The new Avengers Facility had finished construction about a month ago, though the world didn’t know that yet. We wanted to do a dedication ceremony. I insisted that we wait until we had formed a team before we did so. Bucky and I were the first residents of the facility, sharing a bedroom. We immersed ourselves in the Initiative, first on putting the world back together and then recruiting. I also immersed myself in Stark Industries. I was so busy that I barely had time to check in with anyone. 

One day, while I was busy working on paperwork, I received a call from May Parker. She asked me to support her fundraiser and told me that Peter would be there as Spider-Man to boost moral. She told me that it was later that night and that she’d love to see me there, hanging up before I could respond. I leaned forward, nervously biting my thumb nail and bouncing my leg. Footsteps were heard coming from behind me, but I didn’t care. Strong hands came in contact with my shoulders and began massaging them.

“Why all the nervous energy?” Bucky wondered. 

I leaned back into the man as he continued to massage. “May Parker just called.”

“And?”

“And I’m a disappointment to my father… I haven’t been keeping tabs on the kid like I should be.”

“You’ve had a lot on your plate. I’m sure he’ll understand.”

“He’s basically my brother, Buck. Dad was the closest thing he’s had to a father in a long time. He’s been mourning his death too, and I haven’t been there for him.”

“What does this have to do exactly with May calling?”

“There’s a fundraiser tonight for those who’ve been displaced because of the blip. She asked if Stark Industries would donate and I attend. Peter’s going to be there as Spider-Man.”

“You should go.”

I looked up at him. “You think so?”

“I do.” He bent down and pecked my lips. “And, May apparently called Pepper first, who then called me to help get you there.”

“Those little she-devils,” I grumbled.

Bucky chuckled as he pecked my hairline. “I have an outfit laid out for you on our bed and a car waiting for you out front.”

I stood up, turning around and dropping my arms over his neck. “What would I do without you?”

“Never actually make a decision.”

“You’re probably right.” I shrugged.

He pecked my lips again. “Go get changed and see the kid. I’ll be waiting for you when you get home.”

“I love you.”

“I love you too.” He turned me around and gave my butt a little smack. “Now go.”

I laughed as I walked away. My favorite outfit was waiting for me me, laid out on my bed as promised. I slowly got changed and ready, nervous the whole time. I just hoped that Peter didn’t hate me. In taking care of myself, Pepper, and Morgan, I had completely forgotten about my brother. There was a driver waiting for me in the car but I told him that I wanted to drive myself. I hopped in the driver’s seat, rolled down all the windows, and sped out of there. I took the long way into the city, trying to clear my head. I ended up being there thirty minutes late. I took a deep breath before exiting the car. I was looking down, putting the keys in my bag when I bumped into someone.

“Opps, sorry,” the man apologized.

I quickly looked up. There stood Happy, holding a giant check with Pepper’s signature on it. “Happy? What are you doing here?”

“Pepper couldn’t make it and asked me to deliver this.” He held the check up.

“She knew I was coming. Why didn’t she just ask me?”

“Uhh… Well… you see… She didn’t--“

“Oh,” I nodded in realization. “I get it, Happy.” I patted his shoulder, giving him a knowing smirk. “You’re here to see May.”

“I don’t know wha—“

“Don’t worry.” I winked as I began to walk inside backwards. “I’ll keep your little secret.” I turned around.

“You don’t know what you’re talking about, Bailey!”

“You can’t hide anything from me, Hap!  I’m a mind reader, remember?”

I entered the ballroom just in time to see Spider-Man awkwardly giving the audience a thumbs-up. They were all clapping and cheering for him. 

“Thank you Spider-Man,” May said as she went up to the mic. “He’ll be right back out to take photos and videos, thank you!”

The two headed backstage. I wandered over to the stage and found my to the back. By the time I got there, Happy was already making awkward small-talk with May and Peter was very confused while watching the interaction. 

“Anyway, the reason I’m late is because this was misplaced,” Happy stated. It was a stupid excuse and I didn’t have to read his mind to tell it wasn’t true. “Can you believe it? Because it’s enormous. Not the amount, the size. The amount and the size.”

“Oh,” May laughed.

“The very generous Pepper Potts, said—“

“Thank you.”

“—she’s sorry she couldn’t be here.”

“But she did send me in her place,” I interrupted. The three of them quickly turned to look at me. “I hope that’s okay.”

“Bailey,” May came up and engulfed me in a hug. “It’s so good to see you.”

“You too May.” She pulled away and I faced Peter. “Hey Pete.”

“Hey B,” he quietly responded.

“I think I’m going to go change the stereo under the vegan lasagna,” May stated as she took the check from Happy and turned to Peter. “Spider-Man, go shake hands.”

“Will do,” Peter responded as May left. He nervously hugged me. I inhaled his scent as he did the same with me. “I’ve missed you.”

“I’ve missed you too.” We pulled away but my hands found his shoulders. “I’m sorry for failing to be there for you.”

“I’m fine.” I raised a questioning brow at him. “Really, B. I’m fine.”

“Okay.” I was unconvinced.

“Heads up,” Happy cut in. “Nick Fury is calling you.” 

“Nick Fury’s going to call me?” Peter questioned.

“Yeah.”

“Why?” Peter and I asked at the same time.

“Why? Because he probably has some hero stuff for you to do. You’re a superhero. He calls superheroes.”

“Well, I mean if it was really that important, he’d probably call someone else. Like Bailey. Not me.” Peter’s phone began ringing.

“Apparently not.” Happy said as Peter pulled his phone out from the bag. The three of us looked down at the phone. “No caller ID. That’s him.”

“I don’t really want to talk to Nick Fury.”

“Answer the phone,” Happy demanded.

“Why?’ 

“Because if you don’t talk to him, then I have to talk, and I don’t want to talk to him.” 

“Why don’t you want to talk to him?”

“Because he’s scared,” I answered.

“Just answer the phone,” Happy said as he glared at me. Peter held up his phone and declined the call. 

“You sent Nick Fury to voicemail?” 

“Yeah.”

“You don’t send Nick Fury to voicemail!”

“Did you hear that? They’re calling me. I got to go.” Peter started to back away. “I got to go.” 

“You got to talk to him.”

“I’m going to call him. I promise you. I’m going to call him. I will.”

“You do not ghost Nick Fury!” 

“I promise you, I’ll call him.” And then Peter was gone.

I sighed, very confused. “Why would Fury call you and Peter but not me?” I wondered. “It doesn’t make sense.”

“I don’t understand the way that man thinks,” Happy replied.

I made my way out to see how things were going with Peter. He was standing just off the stage, surrounded by people bombarding him with questions.

“What is it like to take over for Tony Stark,” a heard someone ask. I froze and could feel Peter’s anxiety grow. “Those are some big shoes to fill.”

“I’m, uh…” Peter was at a loss for words. “I’m gonna go. Thanks so much everyone, for coming.” 

He quickly left out an open window. I rushed out of the building after him. I couldn’t find him from where I was standing. I sulked back to my car, trying to think of anything in there that I could use to find him. Ever since Tony died, I’d stopped wearing the nanotech suit. I hadn’t put it on since that day. I had even made myself a new one, but never had the nerve to try it out. I threw my head back when I sat down in the drivers seat. I went to start the car when I noticed a post-it note on the glove box. It simply said, ‘open it’. I opened it to find another post-it note on top of my new bracelet.

I read the note out loud to myself, “I thought you might need this. You got this. Love, Bucky.” I chuckled. “You just think of everything don’t you?” 

I slipped on the bracelet as I exited the car. I got out my phone and quickly texted one of my in city assistants to pick up my car. After slipping my phone into my pocket, I pressed the button and activated my suit.

“Good evening, Miss Stark,” FRIDAY greeted.

“Good evening, FRI. Locate Peter for me will you?”

“He’s a few buildings down, on the roof.”

“Let’s go talk to him then.”

I flew up and FRIDAY took me to him. I silently came up behind him. He was crouched down, mask off, staring at the Iron Man mural on the building over.

 I landed, making my suit disappear. I could feel the sadness rolling of off him. He wasn’t okay, and I became determined that he wouldn’t have to go through these feelings alone anymore. 

“I only heard the last question,” I spoke up, “and I’m sorry. They shouldn’t have asked that.” No response. “The responsibility of being the next Iron Man does not fall on you. It doesn’t need to fall upon anyone. We both know that there’s only one Iron Man.”

Peter stood up and turned around. His eyes were red and puffy. My heart broke a bit at the sight. Peter was the reason Tony choose to fight to bring everyone back. I couldn’t let Peter know that but I needed to be better at doing what my father would want.

“Oh, Peter,” I took some steps forward. “I’m so sorry that I haven’t been there for you. I’ve only been concerned about myself that I forgot that Morgan and I weren’t his only kids.”

“It’s fine. I’m fine. You don’t need to worry about me,” he rushed out his lie. “You have a lot on your plate.”

“And you should be one of those things. So from now on, I’m going to be better. How about you come stay a few days at the Facility once summer starts? Bucky and I would love to have you.”

“I would lov—“ He quickly shook his head when he fully took in what I had said. “Wait a minute— Did you say you and Bucky? As in like Bucky Barnes? The Winter Soldier?”

“Yes… um… yeah, him and I are kind of dating.” I could feel a tinge of hurt from him. He was sad that I had time for a new relationship but not for him. “Peter, I—“ I reached out for him.

“Thanks for the offer, Bailey. But I’m going on a school trip to Europe this summer.” He slipped on his mask. “I’ve got to go.” A web shot out and he swung away.

My head fell back as an unsteady sigh left my lips. I knew that going after him right now wouldn’t fix anything so I formed my suit around me and flew home. When I landed outside the facility, I could feel that Bucky was in our bedroom. I didn’t want to talk about Peter just yet, so I went straight to the lab and began working on fixing my suit.

next >

[georgemackayhey]

Listen To The Music

"Will you write George with an s/o who sings and writes music?"

Yooo surprise day off! I've finally been able to finish this rec and start work on some others. Enjoy!

w/c: 1k.

───※ ·❆· ※───

Immersed in a sea of red light slowly turning purple, still you saw the blue of his eyes. He was walking toward you to the gentle beat of the song. You stood stone still, waiting for his form to fade with the pitch of the distant piano chord but the song wasn't over and he was floating closer until he was right there.

Your body took over, forcing words into the microphone as your mind stalled, fixated on the prettiest man you'd ever seen. While girls swayed to the swells of your song, and their boyfriends threw their heads back in laughter, the man with sharp blue eyes stood and stared.

He wasn't watching you, not really. His eyes stayed locked softly on yours while your brain caught up and alerted you to sing right to him. His eyes never raked up and down your figure, like you dreamed they might. He just kept on looking at your despite our best efforts to put on a show.

That was your job, sure. You knew better than anyhow how to get lost in the music, coming up for air in between tracks. This was your job. This was your dream, and the man who appeared out of nowhere on your second to last number stayed when you kicked into your last song. And even though he kept his eyes on you, it was still your deepest desire to give him a show worth watching.

When you opened your eyes again to the fading instruments and cheers from drunken audience members, the man of your dreams wasn't there anymore.

"We're gonna take a quick break, don't go anywhere!" You called into the microphone, crossing your fingers that a certain someone was someplace close enough to hear.

As you dashed from the stage, you halfheartedly thanked some of your friends for showing up before scurrying to the bar. You faked desperation for a shot of whiskey while scanning the crowd from a new perspective. There were plenty of pretty people with nice teeth and hair you could have run your fingers through, but none of them were the guy who caught your fancy.

You took your shot of whiskey, trading the barkeep a wink as a promise to close your tab later, and kept moving. This time, to the restrooms. You could sweep your gaze past patrons on your way and hope to run into the guy with those bright blue eyes. But you didn't, so you pretended to use the restroom and hurried backstage to grab your coat, and dash outside.

Across from the bar you spent most of your time singing in, there was a gas station. Both businesses were teeming with crowds on nights like these. This was both a comforting and daunting fact now. Maybe your man would be lost in that crowd, but what if you failed to pick him out?

You meandered down the block through hoards of friends sharing a smoke and some regulars who recognized and greeted you. But none of them was the guy you were so hopelessly longing to find. So after holding out the last bit of hope on your mossy back to the side door, you slumped against the brick of the building when someone called your name.

One of your band members had slipped out for a smoke and went straight into complaining about how the sound guy was always too sloshed to manage your second act. You listened, knowing you needed too, but felt a weight lift off your shoulders when he was whisked away by his lover.

Right when you got the gumption to peel yourself from the brick wall and give up, there was a warmth at your side.

"I really like your voice."

It was him. It was the man with starry blue eyes and perfectly tousled hair, the man you'd been singing too. The guy you'd been looking for had shown up unexpectedly all over again. You felt a bit embarrassed for how wide your smile grew, already smitten.

"Thank you." You nodded, feeling proud to have entranced him even just a little, enough to score a comment from those perfectly pouty lips.

"I'm sure you get that a lot. B-but I really do." The guy brought a hand to the back of his neck and the skin around his eyes crinkled as he went on talking right to you.

"Well comin' from you, it means a lot. I watched you in the crowd." You spoke up. Your body was on autopilot again, speaking while your mind stalled. You'd been so desperate to find him but hadn't thought of what to say once you had.

"I wasn't going to go out tonight," The guy shrugged, peering over his shoulder like he might have been in trouble. "early day tomorrow. But I'm glad I ended up here. You.. just-"

The guy seemed to flounder, and you couldn't help but let out a nervous giggle.

"I came out here looking for you, ya know?" You'd gotten this far, and you hoped that your statement might align with where his had left off.

"I was meant to take a mate home, but I called him a cab. I wanted to stick around and for your second set."

And then there was no point in biting back your smile. You asked for the handsome man's name. George, he said, confident in his identity, but seemingly as surprised as you were by the course of the evening's events.

You grabbed George by the hand and bought him a drink at the bar. You left him there alone at a stool, watching him from your risen stage.

That's how it all started. George stayed through your second set and showed up to everyone after that weekend. He was never shy about slinking his way right to the front, and you were never ashamed to keep your eyes on his, except when you closed them overcome with the music you sang.

When George started leaving the bar to follow you home, the music seemed to come alive in an all-new way. You were always humming new melodies and thinking up new lyrics that couldn't have possibly been about anyone but George. The way he looked at you, the things he said and how he said them. You could never believe he was real, and the feeling that bloomed in your chest when he was in your line of sight was unparalleled by any other form of art.

Sometimes, all you were left with was the music that reminded you of him, while he was off making something of his own.

When he was home, you would help him practice his lines and auditions.

"You can find the music in everything, huh?" George remarked, dazzled by how you helped him find the beat of a certain script that he'd been struggling to get into the swing of.

George liked the way you found music in everything, calling you August Rush when your ideas caught him off guard. You always laughed and asked him what it was like to see the world through movies. George liked your voice, comparing it to things like honey and church bells and stormy nights. You always blushed and buried your face in his shoulder, thankful for the fact you were able to keep him so close. He was something worth singing about.

The songs you wrote for and about him were little safe havens you ran back to when he was away. But when he finally made his way back, you took rare bouts of time to turn down the volume in your head and sink into George's side. He'd pick out his favorite movies and point out his favorite bits, explaining how they must have been made and thought up. Even during his rambling through films, you found yourself tearing up at the end with an all-new appreciation for the art.

"Amazing. We just watched a comedy, you know?" George lightly chuckled, moving a bit of hair behind your ear as you dabbed your eyes.

"I can't help it!" You jabbed his side with a small laugh. "I just get so lost in the story, especially when you dissect the plot the way you do." You pointed a finger to George who went on smiling as you blamed him.

George went on saying something about how he was always able to separate the story and admire the way each film was made, keeping an eye peeled for tricks of light and perfectly delivered lines, he saw the beauty of its making.

You wished you were better at doing that. You were always planting yourself in the middle of the plots, like how you lost yourself in a song, becoming a part of it all. You asked how George stopped himself from getting lost in a roll. He said he didn't quite know.

And then he left again for six months. You stayed behind with a stack of songs and a few new ones about how lonely it was to be in love, sometimes, but still grateful to have been at all.

When George came back home from shooting his newest war drama, something had changed. He never spoke directly about it, and you never directly asked. But George talked you into being his date at the premiere, and you wondered how you'd gotten lucky enough to say yes.

That night you sat by Georges's side in between castmates who'd become like family, and watched your man act his heart out. But it felt like more than that, you didn't feel like you were watching George play a character, you felt like you were watching him. And when the film ended with his eyes closing, you turned to see George had been crying.

He never let go of your hand from that moment on for the rest of the evening. Somewhere in the quiet night between the premier and the afterparty, when you stopped for a breath of fresh air, you felt yourself float deeper into loving him. You promised George, unprompted, that you'd always be there for him just like he'd been for you through all the gigs and rainy days in between.

And when you went back to the bar, to the place you met; mixed in the sea of purples that faded into green, you could still see the blue of his eyes through changing colors- even when they were closed so he could better listen to the music.

───※ ·❆· ※───

Requests are open ♡

[gamename436]

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[bi-outta-cordonia]

Takeshi and the Five

I got my tin foil hat on backwards and I’m ready to fucking party. This is gonna be a long one so most of it is gonna be stuck under a read more. So let’s begin:

BB today, amirite?? Shit got fucked and got fucked fast but the only person I’m really worried about is Jax and everyone closest to him. And by everyone, I mean there might be some really interesting things that could potentially explain his mentor, Takeshi Watanabe’s backstory. In today’s chapter, Jax reveals a piece of information that Takeshi told him long ago and made him swear not to say anything about: Kano, a 500 year old psychic vampire was in Japan and, despite his efforts to respect his mentor’s wishes, Jax tells the group about Kano hoping he might be able to help unlock MC’s powers to help them stop Rheya. 

What we know about Takeshi is that 700 years ago, he served a powerful woman in the middle of feudal Japan. This woman was Aiko Nakamura:

She was a powerful clan head that somehow came into contact with Gauis and Kamilah during this era. They seemed to provide services to her clan, slaughtering her enemies and helping her clan gain control of various territories. In the midst of this, her father wound up passing away, passing on the title to her and leaving her in control of her clan. She developed a relationship with Kamilah but was able to determine that Gauis and Kamilah were not exactly who they said they were, that they weren't human. 

After a particularly hard fought battle, Aiko summoned her soldiers and had Gaius and Kamilah divulge the truth under threat of death. They revealed to her that they were immortal and only sought to build a home for creatures like them. Sensing an opportunity, the two of them promised Aiko power beyond imagining. She could become immortal, unkillable to her enemies and conquer those that would stand against her. She took that deal. 

And it seems that Takeshi did as well. 

The one thing that seems to be evading us at this moment is how Takeshi went from this:

To this:

He was a samurai that served a distinguished lady and powerful family. More importantly, he was a vampire that was originally from Japan who somehow wound up in America and started a revolution of sorts with the hopes of killing the New York Council. So how did this happen? What led from point A to point B?

My theory is this: Takeshi may have served Aiko for some time but when he accepted the gift of vampirism, later down the road things changed as society changed and he was given power he had not possessed while living in service of Clan Nakamura as a human. He was given power and prestige, control that his mortal self had not known. He was given a spot on that led to him becoming one of the Five of Japan.

What we know of the Big Five comes from Jameson’s notes on them and, what Jameson did know was not a whole lot. The Big Five were secretive and did not find themselves getting involved in global affairs all that much:

They built a vampire kingdom that predates the American kingdom’s level of freedom. They also seem to have relatively powerful vampires within their midst: 

I think Takeshi was given a place amongst these vampires, possessing power as an elder and holding reign over vampires that flocked to the Five and adhered to their demands. Aiko seems a woman who is ambitious and desires power for herself and the Five seemed content with having their kingdom without outside interference messing with their kingdom. I think a big part of how they were able to set up their kingdom came with Kamilah and Gaius’s help. The two of them sought to build homes in places outside of Europe, where vampires were subjected to attacks from the Order of the Dawn on a constant basis. The Five were likely among one of the first shadow kingdoms that were able to establish themselves having power in the same sectors that the Order held power in Europe--politics, infrastructure, and the like. 

I think Takeshi was a part of this. I think he may have been immersed in it for some time. He could partake in the same pleasures that many of the wealthy vampires we’ve come across can. As much blood as he wants, all the flesh he could indulge in but a mere snap of a finger away--I think he may have enjoyed the power he had for some time or at least reveled in it.

But given his personality? The kind of person we come to know him as? I don’t think he’s always seen it as something that should be so easily given. 

I think the Five of Japan could be as terrible as the New York Council. I think that they held power over life and death itself. I think that vampires within their shadow kingdom had to essentially grovel for mercy and prostrate on hands and knees for the right to keep their lives to some of the most powerful creatures in all of Japan. I think it may have disgusted him after a time. I think Takeshi has always been a man that was not afraid of shedding blood and fighting, but the obsession with power? The need for it? It was never in his heart the way it was for the others. 

I think he may have had a falling out with the Five, but most especially Aiko. He likely served her clan out of honor. He likely joined her amongst the Five to honor his bond with her. But I don’t think he was built to be as ruthless as she was. As willing to do what it takes to obtain power of all things. 

He was a man that focused on justice above all. Doing the right thing may not have come easy but he endeavored to do it when he could. 

I think this falling out led to him leaving Japan and leaving the Five. I think he crossed the seas and found himself in New York City. He likely knew of Gaius setting up a shadow kingdom in America. He likely knew of Gaius’s temperament and the kind of person that he was. He would’ve heard about Gaius being killed by his progeny and a council sitting place rather than a king as Gaius intended. 

I think when he arrived, he heard of the New York Council and had hope that things would be better. 

When he arrived he found out that things were not. 

The six clans of New York were divvied up between all of Gaius’s progeny, people who found themselves drowning in wealth beyond imagining and who held control in various sectors of power within America. Priya LaCroix, entertainment head and mistress of the night; Adam Vega, political prodigy; Lester Castellanos, head of industry; Cecil Romano IV, the “Baron,” and king of the criminal element; Adrian Raines, former soldier and technological lifeline of the New York Council; and Kamilah Sayeed, Gaius’s former queen and butcher--

Their rule was tight and their decisions were final. Only a handful of vampires were given the honor of making up their clans, around 30 between each of them. But Takeshi would’ve seen the masses that made up the unaccounted for. The ignored. 

While the Council held reign, their vampires held everything but self-control. Members of their clans would feed on unwilling humans, often times draining them of all their blood and murdering them outright. In the streets, those that survive may find themselves returning to life as Clanless. Vampires with no brand and no one to support them during such a trying time. Worse yet, while these Clanless vampires walked about, their very existence is deemed a threat to the greater community. Takeshi would’ve known about the ferals. He would’ve seen firsthand what happens to vampires who exist without a proper brand and what must be done with them. 

He would’ve come to America and seen the way the New York Council turns a blind eye to the atrocities their branded vampires commit and how they would condemn those that were unfortunate enough to become their victims to brutal deaths. He would’ve been in America during the last clan war that rocked the city. He would’ve seen all the helpless Clanless victims that the Council’s vampires left behind. He would’ve Turned many of them in the hopes of saving their lives. And in the hopes of forcing violent change. 

It was just like with the Five. Power remained everything and those that held it abused it gleefully. Takeshi was a man of honor, a man who valued justice and had seen enough bloodshed in his life that it would’ve boiled his blood to see these things happening and know that the New York Council was fine with doing absolutely nothing. 

He would’ve formulated a plan. He would’ve sought to undo the damage that the pursuit of power had done to those living back home in Japan. 

Along the way, he saved a young man’s life, another victim of the Council’s indifference:

And he finds himself mentoring this young man. He teaches him how to defend himself. He nurtures the man’s background of justice and freedom at any cost. He guides him when he has nothing left. He essentially takes the young man on as a student, as a son. 

Takeshi tells the young man about his past, though not all of it. He talks about a powerful woman he once knew:

And the gift he received for his loyalty. He speaks about the influence of the group that eventually came to be in Japan:

And a psychic with power beyond anything he had ever come to know:

But most importantly, Takeshi tells him that no matter what happens, the young man needs to remember the reason for why they are fighting. For why they are doing this. He tells him it’s because no one deserves to live a life under the boot heel of those that ascribe themselves superficial power. He tells him it’s because everyone deserves the chance to live a life of their own choosing. 

But what he doesn’t say? Is that they do this because he refuses to let his past mistakes reflect in a blossoming kingdom that could truly be a place of complete freedom for vampires.

I think Takeshi was a part of the Five of Japan and I so look forward to seeing his history laid before us. I look forward to seeing Jax tell us about Takeshi and for us to learn the truths that Takeshi could not reveal to Jax. I look forward to seeing the conclusion of Jax’s story and hope that it will be delivered in a manner deserving of him. 

Takeshi Watanabe and the Five of Japan. Jax Matsuo and perhaps the end of his story. I’m terribly excited.

[jising-jisang-jisung]

Name Your Price | Park Jisung

Genre: big floof

Word count: 1.6k

A/n: I wrote this all at once instead of doing my apush homework so please appreciate my love for Jisung!!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

You walk into the commons at school to find your two best friends, Chenle and Jisung immersed in a conversation. "What's up guys?" You inquire casually. "Nothing!" The two boys say in unison. "Its a secret," Jisung announces making you want to know even more.

"Tell meeeeeee" you whine trying to get it out of him. Jisung debates for a minute and finally comes up with an idea. "I'll tell you-" he pauses, still thinking carefully about what he says, "if you give me a kiss."

"Ew, Jisung, that was so gross!" Chenle screeched with his loud dolphin-like voice.

"It was a little greasy," you admit hoping that neither boy will notice your blush.

"Y/n's blushing!!"

"Shut up, Lele! No I am not!"

~

During lunch you sit in your usually seat with your friends. There were 8 of you total, it used to be 9 but Mark graduated and went to college. "What's for lunch today, y/n?" Jaemin asks before hopping in line to get his school served food. If you could call it food.

"Um, this might be fish, ＜(。_。)＞" you respond, pushing your tray away from yourself. That when you notice that Jisung brought his own lunch today. "Mmmm, Jisungie! What's in your lunchbox today?"

"Tell you what, y/n. I'll give you half of my pb&j in exchange-"

"If you say I have to kiss you, I will throw you out of the math window on the second floor!"

His face looks shocked, maybe even a little scared, but it is still coated in a shy blush. "Here." He hands you half his sandwich and his grapes. This caused a lot of commotion from the other boys, Chenle in particular. They were ooh-ing and ahhh-ing and jisung is love-ing. You knew it was just teasing but that didn't stop your heart from beating louder than the bass in Hyuck's car when he is feeling particularly emo that day. What an analogy. "So what're we doing tonight guys?" Jeno picks up from behind Jaemin, who stole the other half of Jisung's pb&j rather than risk the possible fish.

The rest of the boys have a mischievous look on their faces. "Let's watch a movie at y/n's house," Jaemin says cutely, trying to use his charm against you. "My mom doesn't really want me to have all of you over again, y'know after last time." Jaemin shoots you an apologetic look, "right, I forgot about that." "But y/n's older brother never will!" Hyuck chimes in, earning himself a smack to the back of his head from Renjun. "How bout Jisungie's? We haven't hung out there in a while," Renjun suggests.

Jisung was caught off guard since he was trying to negotiate his lunch back from Jaemin. "Ah, but Chenle's house is so much bigger and nicer and his TV-"

"Jisung's it is! See you all at 6!" And then the boys were gone, leaving you, Jisung, and Chenle to your lunch. You felt kind and gave Jisung half of the half he gave you. This action did not go unnoticed by Chenle.

~

You have a knack for never being late, but you're pretty sure you inherited that from your mother, who is NEVER late. This being said, you showed up like 30 mins early. Jisung opens his door revealing sweatpants that just so happened to match the ones you were wearing. "Jisung! Look we match. Cute!"

"Y/n ☆(❁‿❁)☆ you're early, as usual. Cmon in and help me get some snacks."

You and Jisung rummage his pantry for anything sweet or salty, or better yet: both. After collecting all the junk food in Jisung's house, you sat waiting for the rest of the group to arrive. "So, Jisung, are you gonna tell me what you and Chenle were discussing ever so secretly earlier?"

"You already know the price," he said cheekily, making a kissy face.

"Why won't you tell meeeeeeee? You're not supposed to keep secrets from your best friend ＼(◎o◎)／"

"I will tell you. I just- I can't tell you right now. But I will tell you, I promise."

"You swear you will?" He nodded. "Okay you are forgiven, but you better tell me, or I'll never help you avoid Jaemin again." This was the best threat you could think of for the time being. Jisung absolutely hates when Jaemin is clingy and loves him too much.

At 6pm on the dot you began to feel anxious. "Relax, y/n not everyone shows up exactly on time. They're probably just running late because they picked up snacks too," Jisung reassured you with a warm smile.

Just like that, there was a knock on the door. Chenle greeted you both by throwing a DVD at you and screaming "WATCH THIS!" before his phone began to ring. "Yes, mom. Okay. Are you sure? But I just got here. Yes, mom. I'll be right there. Love you too- it appears I actually can't stay."

"None of the others came either. Maybe we should just resche-" you started.

"No!- you two can enjoy the movie. Don't be bummed out by the rest of us flakes. Enjoy your movie night." With that last remark he smirked at Jisung and added a wink. It was starting to feel like a setup.

"We don't have to watch this movie if you'd prefer something else," you offered, holding up the horror film.

"Why? Are you scared?" Jisung taunted.

Your hand was literally shaking just holding up the DVD and the boy has the nerve- the disrespect! "Jisung, you don't like horror movies either you baby. Don't come at me when you can't hold your own," you huff, face turning slightly red from embarrassment.

"Fine. Let's watch it then. But I won't be scared. I'm practically the man of this household. Don't be too frightened, little y/n, your big strong Jisung will protect you."

You punched his arm, "alright then, since you're not at all scared, let's just watch it. We'll see who's scared then, brave boy."

~

It was just like in the movies when the popcorn goes flying at the jump scare. There were snacks all over the living room by this point. You and Jisung were under one (1) blanket that was held tightly over both of your heads whenever a scary scene came on. Without realizing it you both grabbed onto each other. Jisung was shaking, so much for not being afraid. You could feel his heart beat increasing by the second, anticipating the next jump. His face was very close to yours. You could barely think about anything else because of his close proximity. Then, he flinched, and so did you. This movie was more frightening then you thought it would be. Why did you agree to this?

You jump again, latching onto Jisung even harder. Without noticing it, you both screamed. Like full on shrieked at the top of your lungs. You were still holding onto each other for dear life as you just looked at one another, still screaming. You both quieted down, not breaking eye contact. His face was so close you could feel his breath on your cheek. He was breathing pretty heavily, but so were you. You don't know what came over you, but you spotted the little mole just outside of his bottom lip and kissed it, resulting in you actually kissing his lips.

If Jisung was frightened before, now he was terrified. He never expected you to really kiss him. Sure he wanted you to, but never in a million years did he think it would happen. Again, you were caught staring at one another, motionless as the movie ended outside the blanket. He began to remove the blanket from covering you both, peaking out to double check that the film was in fact over and there was no more scary movie. "Jisung, I'm too scared to go home alone and you know my brother won't pick me up-"

"I have an extra sleeping bag in my closet. I'll be right ba- actually, you should come with me. I don't want to go by mysel- I mean, I wouldn't want you to be left here alone when you're so afraid."

"Nice save."

"Thanks."

"So are you gonna tell me the secret now," your face lit up when you remembered your conversation earlier.

"What do you mean? I told you I would tell you later."

"Park Jisung! You said your price was a kiss and I delivered so tell me or I swear I will make you watch every horror movie ever made!"

Now, there aren't words to describe Jisung's level of fear. "Okay okay. I'll tell you... but you have to kiss me first."

"What? I already-"

"You didn't do it meaningfully enough so you have to do it again. That's the price, I don't make the rules."

"You do, but okay." You leaned in to press your lips to the boy's for the second time. It was softer than the first. Probably because he was ready this time, and you weren't scared out of your pants.

"Hmmm. No that wasn't quite right either. Try again."

"Park Jisung! Don't make me tell Mark!"

"Okay fine! Just don't tell Mark on me. What I was telling Chenle was..."

"Go on."

"I really like you, y/n!"

"Oh thank goodness. Because it would be weird if you didn't and we just kissed like that just cuz."

"Wait what does that mean?"

"I like you too dummy."

"Do you like me enough to kiss me again? But you were seriously just joking about telling Mark, right?"

"No. I'm telling."

[randomoranges]

Perfect Cities

Dream a Little Dream

 Mid 1990’s.

 Edward stepped out of the elevator of the Belgo Gallery and walked down the corridor of the seventh floor. The tall building, located in the downtown area of Montréal, served as an art gallery for modern and contemporary art, each floor, and each room managed by different people. He passed through various open doors, making his way to the far end, where Étienne’s small gallery was. When he got there, he paused for a moment, looking through the glass door at Étienne bustle about; making sure the artwork was in place.

 The gallery wasn’t very big, built more in depth than width. Wooden floors creaked under patrons’ feet and the few pillars that supported the building made the space feel like a small maze, which Étienne used to his advantage to create fabulous tales with his exhibits.

 “Knockity, knock, knock, anyone in here?” Edward called from the other side of the glass door. He watched, amused, as Étienne emerged from behind the pillar and looked in his direction, smiling brightly. He gave an enthusiastic wave and walked towards the door, careful not to tip over the various stands along the way.

 “Eddy! I wasn’t expecting you. What a pleasant surprise. What brings you here?” Étienne flung his arms around his neck and kissed him soundly on the lips.

 Edward pulled away with a smile, resting his forehead on Étienne’s for a while. His heart beat wildly in his ribcage, still unused to these blatant displays of affection, but never minding them. Once he had control of his emotions, he thrust the brown paper bag he had brought along with him to the other man. “You forgot your lunch on the counter, dummy.” He said, soft and fond. If he had a tally for every time this happened... well, it would be a large tally.

 Étienne gave him a sheepish smile and took the bag, peeping inside. “And after you carefully packed it for me... sorry.”

 “It’s fine, but I didn’t want you to eat out again, so I brought it to you.” Sometimes, he honestly wondered if Étienne didn’t do it on purpose. At first, Edward had thought Étienne did it because he didn’t like his food, so he hadn’t bothered bringing the packed lunches to the gallery. However, after Étienne had complained one day about the subpar sandwich he had had to purchase, Edward had made it his mission to deliver the forgotten lunches to him. By now, he honestly suspected that Étienne used it as an excuse to spend his lunch break with him.

 Edward didn’t really mind.

 “My knight in shining armour.” Étienne said, kissing his cheek. “Did you brave the city streets all by yourself?”

 “Of course; I’ve been here enough times now to know how to navigate the metro. So are you going to show me around or are we gonna spend all day in the doorway?” He teased.

 “You’re right! You’ve never seen the gallery – well, not this way. Come on, I’ll give you a private tour.” Étienne took his hand and led him further into the narrow space, dodging the stands that held intricate pieces expertly.

 Edward followed close behind, a fond look on his face as Étienne chatted animatedly about the new set up, and how it would benefit the space he had. They stopped at Étienne’s desk to drop off the packed lunch and from there, without letting go of his hand, Étienne walked him through the current exhibition, through the careful path he had designed. He explained each piece briefly, weaving a connecting story between the first and the next, slowly revealing the larger picture the pieces were part of.

 There were the brightly coloured orbs in varying shades of warm colours, made of glass, which Étienne told him were a representation of the sun throughout the year – the darker, warmer ones for summer, the lighter ones for winter. Then, the next piece, not even done by the same artist, was a series of metal flowers, dipped in different colours. The theme, Étienne told him, as they carefully wove their way to the back of the space, was Rebirth and Edward could see how it fit with the pieces and the layout.

 There was only Étienne who could bring abstract art to life the way he did. Edward could listen to him talk for hours. He loved how Étienne became animated, talking about the artwork he had carefully chosen for his little art gallery. Edward could tell how much the other man enjoyed doing this and for that, he was glad. Seeing Étienne so happy and enthused quickened his heartbeat and he made it a point to visit whenever there was a new exhibition, letting Étienne guide him through the artwork, immersing himself in his lover’s world.

 “So, how long do I have you for?” Étienne asked him, at the end of the tour.

 Edward blinked and looked at him, frowning slightly, trying to figure out what he meant by that. “I am not having sex with you in your gallery; once was enough.” He bristled. Had it not been for the security guard that had walked in on them, perhaps Edward would have agreed to a repeat performance, but he could still vividly recall the man’s mortified face and just thinking about it sent him down the road of embarrassment.

 Étienne laughed, swatting at his chest playfully, but shook his head. “I wasn’t suggesting that, silly. Sheesh, now who’s the one with his head in the gutter?” He joked.

 “Okay, well, what were you suggesting?” He recovered, putting those thoughts aside.

 “Well, since it’s nearly lunch time, I thought maybe you could stay and we could have a picnic? I know you always pack too much for me.”

 There was fondness in his tone and Edward knew he shouldn’t be embarrassed by this anymore, not after the many years he had spent with Étienne, but his cheeks pinked nonetheless.

 “Don’t want you to get hungry, that’s all.” He mumbled.

 Étienne caressed his cheek, pressing a soft kiss to the corner of his lips and Edward knew he was gone for this man. Étienne had discovered with time that Edward conveyed his feelings through the food he made him and that there was careful thought put into everything he packed. He was immensely touched by the gesture and truly treasured every meal Edward made for him, even the sandwiches.

 “I know and I think it’s sweet. But since you’re here, care to join me?”

 “Yeah, okay, why not?”

 Étienne looked delighted and Edward hoped he could be the reason for that look for a very long time. They walked back to the far left side of the gallery, where Étienne kept his desk behind more glass doors. Étienne had explained to him, once, on Edward’s first visit to the gallery that he liked the idea of the glass doors for he could always see what was going on in the space. At the same time, the doors helped define the area between gallery and desk and it gave him room to work, while not being cut off from the place he loved.

 Étienne picked up the scattered books, pictures, pencils, pens, brochures and magazines that littered his workspace and dumped them into a drawer for the time being. He cleared the table of the various application forms Edward had seen laying on Étienne’s kitchen table and then he rummaged through a cupboard to pull out a tablecloth.

 “Do you often have picnics with your patrons, Mr. Maisonneuve?” Edward asked, eyeing the many different tablecloths that were in the cupboard.

 Edward’s tone was light and Étienne rolled his eyes at him in fond exasperation. “Absolutely not, but if you recall, I had a show last year that required many tablecloths. I kept them for such occasions. Now, be a dear and get me the dishes and cutlery from the cabinet next to you.”

 Edward did as he was told and the two of them set up their impromptu picnic table in companionable silence. There was a thermos of still steaming soup, a small container of mixed cut up fruit, some cheese and crackers, a small variety of three different types of sandwiches and a bowl of salad with the dressing it its own, smaller, container. Edward filled up the two crystal water glasses Étienne liked to keep around and when everything was set, they sat down across from each other to dig into the meal.

 “You’ve spoiled me once more, Mr. Murphy. I’m truly a lucky man.” Étienne told him around a spoonful of soup.

 “You know I don’t mind.” He murmured, sincere. The truth of the matter was that he liked spoiling Étienne with his food and his attention. Étienne had been there for him when no one else had and being with him had helped so much. Edward felt at ease with him and he hoped, through each carefully packed lunch, that Étienne could understand that.

 “I know, but you didn’t have to get up so early to make fresh soup. Not that I don’t appreciate it.” Étienne reached for his hand across the table and twined their fingers together.

 Edward held on, butterflies dancing in his stomach, enjoying the warmth that Étienne’s fingers gave. Moments like these, when it was just the two of them sharing a quiet lunch were his favourite. He felt close to Étienne in a way he never imagined he could and Étienne’s solid presence, even with just their hands touching, was grounding. “I tried to be discreet.” He admitted.

 “And it would have worked, had it not been for the fact that I couldn’t find you in bed when I turned around to snuggle you. That and the apartment smelt really good.”

 Edward laughed at that and squeezed Étienne’s hand. “Then I promise to let you snuggle me next time.”

 From across the table, Étienne beamed.

 The rest of lunch was spent in quiet conversation, catching up and enjoying the other’s company. They talked about trivial little things; Edward’s ride into the city, a new jazz band Étienne was slowly falling in love with, the encounter Edward had at the Jean-Talon market with an elderly Italian woman, and so on. It was nice, ideal really. Lunches like these were both their favourites and it allowed them to pause their hectic lives and enjoy the quietude and comfort of the moment. Edward helped Étienne clear the dishes afterwards and then he had to head out to run some errands.

 “I guess I’ll see you tonight?”

 “I sure hope so. You’ll be okay navigating the city?” Étienne asked, draping his arms around Edward’s neck. His lover held him close and rubbed his back gently.

 “Of course; your noble knight shall tame the metro system.”

 Étienne laughed and kissed him again. “Be good, have fun.”

 “I will, promise.”

 They walked back to the main door of the gallery and they both lingered a little, not wanting the moment to really end.

 “See you later.”

 “Be careful.” Étienne cautioned one last time.

 “’Love you.” Edward murmured in his ear after one more quick hug. He stepped back in time to notice the pink in Étienne’s cheeks. The look of surprise on his face was endearing to him and Edward couldn’t help himself, stepping close to steal one last kiss from Étienne’s partially open mouth.

 “Me too.” Étienne whispered back, slightly dazed.

 Then, with a final wave, Edward headed out, whistling to himself.

 --

 He noticed the tears before he realised he was awake. Thick and fat they spilled from his eyes as the bedroom’s ceiling slowly came into focus.

 Edward felt his heart sink as a wave of sadness crashed over him. He knew that he could never have what he really longed for, but having seen it in his dream – having thought for one glorious moment that it had been real, Edward felt as though he had been punched in the stomach, breath ripped out of him.

 But he knew.

 He knew after so many years with Étienne that this could never be. He knew and had known that Étienne, the man he had slowly fallen in love with, did not do relationships. He knew, because Étienne had told him, once, almost two decades ago. The problem was that Edward had slowly but surely fallen for Étienne – his easy smile, the way his eyes crinkled when he smiled, the brightness of his eyes, his soft, plush lips, his loud laugh and his gentle hands. Edward had fallen faster than he had realised for the well-hidden side of Étienne and deep down, he knew he could never have more.

 His dream was a reflection of everything he yearned for with a man who simply didn’t do any of those things.

 And then there were those times – little moments – when Étienne would look at him a certain way or say a certain thing that would send Edward’s heart racing. Times when Étienne would hold him just a little longer, kiss him just a little slower, and Edward would dare to hope that it meant as much to Étienne as it did to him. But those moments never lasted long, something else always coming up – meetings, encounters, distance, words...

 He wiped at his eyes, trying to stop the increasing feeling of emptiness and sorrow that had crept up on him, before he turned to his side.

 Beside him, Étienne slept on soundly, oblivious to his turmoil and to his feelings. Edward bit back the sob that threatened to escape and instead made himself small in Étienne’s arms, letting the weight of his slumbering warmth still his heavy heart.

 He knew, on some logical level that he could call it quits. He could leave anytime he wanted. He didn’t need to suffer through this, but the problem was he didn’t want to leave. Most of the time, really, almost the majority of the time, Étienne made happy. However, there were times like today, when Étienne would let his eyes linger on some passing man, or woman, that made Edward question himself and what he had with Étienne all over again.

 Dreams like the one he just had weren’t new to him, but each one was another blow – another reminder of the thing he really wanted and the one he could never have. Not here, not with Étienne.

 He could leave. He knew he could. He could always search elsewhere, but he was a stupid man in love with Étienne, and he still dared to dream that Étienne felt the same.

 If he willed his mind around it, he could almost fool himself into believing that the feelings were mutual for just a little longer, long enough for the dream not to end.

 FIN 37

 Started writing: April 17th 2017, 3:53pm

Finished writing: April 17th 2017, 6:08pm

Started typing: April 24th 2017, 3:42pm

Finished typing: April 24th 2017, 4:43pm

[thedungeonsbat]

Muggle Love (Chapter 15)

A/N: Sorry again for the late and short update but I promise the next one's gonna be longer and hopefully better too. Also, (y/f/f) means 'your fav flower'. Happy reading!

Chapter 15

You had picked out gifts for everyone when you went out shopping with Holly. It had been an immensely tiring day for both you as you spent hours looking for the perfect t present for your family and friends, unfortunately, nothing for Severus. Never before now, you had realized that you knew nothing of his interests. Even though Holly hadn't been much help in finding Severus a proper gift (her teasing worsened the situation) but she was proved helpful in finding something for your brother.

You decided you'd give Severus something handmade as you had before. They do always have a special something about them. Making something with your own hands for him was a pleasure to you.

23rd December. It was the day you would go to your father and before doing so, you had to send Severus his Christmas present from you. You were very unsure if he would even like his gift. You made him a nice little card, wrapped the presents and feeling sorry for Erebus, for he had to carry it all, told him to deliver it to Severus. You nibbled on your skin gently before taking flight and man moments later disappearing completely.

_________

After long hours of thinking Severus had finally come up with something and he was just as doubtful about giving it to you as you were. He attached with it a small note. Even though he had mentioned your name on the very nicely wrapped box, he instructed he owl to whom the package had to be delivered,

"Deliver this to (Y/N) (Y/L/N)." He spoke softly and clearly. The barn school owl replied him with a little hoot and flew off. He stood at the window for some moments enjoying the wintery wind that blew. Just then, Peeves entered the owlery. He was obviously planning to play a prank again but had not expected to find Professor Snape there.

Severus' head jerked sideways in his direction and a heavy frown appeared on his forehead. 'Not now!' He muttered.

Peeves grinned maliciously and began hovering around Severus. Severus would have tried to drive him away but he knew it was no use, so he made for the door to leave.

"Ooh, I've never seen Professor Snape in the owlery before! I've been hearing there is some-" He said still grinning.

"Shut up Peeves!" Severus said menacingly.

Peeves did not stop his nonsense so Severus had no choice except to ignore him. He slammed the door shut behind him but he could still hear Peeves laughing.

"That insufferable poltergeist!" He muttered through gritted teeth.

_______________

Christmas was magical at Hogwarts, not that every day wasn't. The castle was decorated magnificently, the ceiling enchanted and the Hall decorated with the twelve Christmas trees.

Perhaps for the first time in his career as a teacher at Hogwarts, he admired the beauty of Christmas. Everyone around him was of spirits and joyous and so was he, at least a bit.

He had received your owl post early in the morning before he left his chambers, making him happy from the very start of the day.

A black hand-knit scarf was nicely wrapped up in green wrapping paper with a red ribbon. With it, he found the card you had written for him wishing him a Merry Christmas. You had also made him mince pies which reminded him of his own mother. He brought his focus back onto your gift and the smile that had now appeared did not leave his face for the following many hours.

He normally wouldn't but he wore your scarf to the Hogsmeade weekend when he had to go with the students. Your scarf did a great job warming him in the cold, snowy evening.

With you in mind, Severus spent the Christmas day in a merry mood and, of course, the others noticed and gossiped again.

Then an amazing idea popped into Severus' head. He headed straight for Dumbledore's office. When in front of the Gargoyle, he said the password Acid Pops and entered the Headmaster's office.

Dumbledore was seated in his chair, having a chat with the portraits of the former Headmasters and Headmistresses. They all pretended to go back to sleep as they heard the Gargoyle staircase moving. Severus knocked three times before he heard 'Come in please.'

_______________

Your dad was preparing a nice meal in the kitchen while you sat in the living room reading. You insisted on helping but he didn't listen, there was no point in arguing with him, so you accepted defeat and relaxed on the sofa.

Just when you were completely immersed in reading you heard a thumping noise on the window. You turned to look at the origin of the sound and found a barn owl. Realization struck you almost immediately and you rushed over to let it in.

"What's that noise (Y/N)?" Came your father's voice.

"It's nothing dad!" You said loud enough for him to hear. You did not want him seeing owls.

You quickly let the owl in and untied the package. It did not wait for any reply and flew off. You could see why it was going to be very cold when it snows, it would be best to leave now.

You had expected it but not so soon, you thought it would have been Erebus to deliver to you but then, of course, it would no longer be Christmas then.

You hurried upstairs to your room to open up everything.

A brief note was attached to the box which contained a small bottle. Perfume. But it did not have any label, and that was because it was Severus' special gift. You did not realize it just now but he had made the contents himself so that whenever you used it, it would smell like whatever you like.

The effects were similar to Amortentia but not as powerful. It did have the slight mother of pearl sheen appearance just like Amortentia does. Though, unlike Amortentia, it did not smell like a person. If it did, you would surely have smelled Severus.

This was another one of Severus' own recipes which he had come up with only recently.

You were confused but not suspicious of the perfume, you trusted Severus and you believed it was another one of the 'magical things' you were always so excited to get. That only made you more excited to check the effects.

You applied some on your wrist and inhaled the fragrance. It smelled just like (y/f/f) and there was something so magical about the scent that you felt very lightheaded (another effect Severus added).

"(Y/N), lunch's ready!" Your father called from downstairs.

You snapped back into reality and replied, "Coming dad!"

The rest of the day you spent happily a calmly and the night you spent dreaming of Severus.

_______________

"Ah, Severus. Come in, come in." Dumbledore greeted happily.

"Sorry for interrupting without warning Headmaster," Severus said.

"Nevermind that. What's that you wished to speak of?"

"Its more of a request, a permission." He told.

Dumbledore eyed him curiously and then signaled him to resume with a look.

"I was hoping to get leave. For just a day." He asked uncertainly while fidgeting his fingers behind his back.

"A leave?" Dumbledore repeated with a raised eyebrow and then continued, "You sure may, but when?"

Severus was a bit surprised he didn't ask why but also relieved he wouldn't have to answer that question.

"New Year's Eve." He said.

"To meet someone I suppose?" Dumbledore further asked. Severus was hating it but it was inevitable, as the Headmaster it was his right to know. Something about Dumbledore's voice made him doubt he was already aware this would happen.

"Yes." Severus said trying to maintain the formal tone.

Dumbledore gave him a smile, "It's good to know you're giving yourself a rest, Severus. Have a good holiday!" He said cheerfully to which Severus only reply with a nod and left.

That's right, he'd be giving you a surprise visit and that was surely the best way to start the New Year.

__________________

A/N: Hope you liked it which isn't so likely as these last few chapters have got nothing real happening. It's gonna be a big step towards their relationship!! Thanks for reading😊

__________________

@smokindoinksinthejungle , @princetale , @radspencerreid , @a-slytherin-sin

[memescomicswriting]

Brooklyn Baby

Fandom: Marvel

Pairing: Clint x Reader

Warnings: Age gap, lots of potty language, and implied sexy times

Summary: Your boyfriend is in a classic band. You work at a hot club in The City. Is your love enough to overcome his securities?

Masterlist

A/N: Clint’s in his early forties here. I don’t pay attention to cannon age Based off “Brooklyn Baby” by Lana Del Rey

--

The night was old but the bar ragged on. You didn't mind working as a bartender. The place was named SHEILD, after some old inside joke, and it was a nice club. You made good money from your boss, Tony. He was a generous man and insisted on paying the girls more for all the shit you had to put up with from drunk men. With tips from the high traffic flow of rich idiots and eager tourists, you lived comfortably. Some regulars were being taken care of by Wanda down at the other end of the bar. Regulars were people Tony deemed 'not the biggest asshole' that frequented enough to hold a VIP card. That left you with the drifters on the opposite side. This wasn't the only bar in the place and it wasn't the most central bar either. Your bar was on the open, inward-facing loft that looked over the stage and dance floor. Due to the acoustics, the music was awesome up there but not too loud because the speakers sat below you.

At first, your customers were genuine fans of music, but soon they shuffled out and the 'biggest asshole' type sauntered in. They didn't bother you much. They were too busy trying to impress their dates or the people they picked up bellow. When their guests became less enthusiastic they began to grumble about how they should've gone to club Hydra. You almost told them to go there, but you didn't think it was worth the confrontation.

Tony originally bought the club to relive the glory days of his band, the Avengers. It was comprised of his friends: Steve, the Captain; Natasha, Black Widow; Thor, Point Break; Bruce, Hulk; and Clint, Hawkeye. Tony, or Iron Man as he liked to be called, took it upon himself to give some of the staff and club friends nicknames too. Wanda was the Scarlett Witch for her red lipstick and wit. Her brother Pietro was named QuickSilver for his silver hair and his ability to move around the club quickly. You were girlfriend, but the name had no inappropriate connotation. It had everything to do with who you started dating after you began to work there. The Avengers played earlier in the night. Now the DJ controlled the stage and created mixes of their top hits. The place was decorated commemorating the band. The music was a little before your time, but your older siblings often blared the radios in their rooms with Avenger music. You knew most of the songs by heart at this point. Like your siblings' rooms, commemorative posters were all over. Each bar was themed with a band member. Tony's was the largest, central bar- go figure. Yours, in the loft above, was for Hawkeye. You didn't mind that at all. Your boyfriend was the lead guitarist in his band. You often found yourself singing along while he played at home. Usually, it was whoever inspired him. You liked it when he played Lou Reed. He liked to play things from the seventies because he was a seventies baby even if it were '79. A lot of his friends, outside his band, didn't understand what he got from being with you. Someone your age couldn't understand the time he came from or his taste in music. He was a free spirit and you tied him down by simply existing. You'd zoned out in thought of your boyfriend. God, was he so cool and attractive, and oh how you loved him. The growing calls brought you back to the present. "Yo, bar babe!" A thick and sweaty hand waved in front of you. You quickly repressed the disgust on your face. "Yes?" You asked in the nicest tone you could muster, which was decent. "Thanks for sparring some attention to your customers." The guy snickered. He was tall enough, built enough. His face a bit intimidating; enough to the point you decided lunging across the bar at him wasn't the best idea. "Another round of Bud Light pitchers." They already reeked of alcohol but they weren't exhibiting signs of needing to be cut off. "Sure." You quickly went on to get their order just to be away from them. When you came back with the fresh pitchers the guests with them turned up their noses at the drink. You couldn't blame them. Light beer was gross, to begin with, and mass quantities of Bud Light were the cheapest way to get drunk at a bar like yours. As the group of men called it, 'the pieces of ass' walked off, no longer wanting anything to do with them. It was a mix of pretty young girls and guys. They could do better anyway. Soon, they all began arguing about who was to blame for their guests leaving. The one who asked for the pitchers quickly became the center of the argument. Another member of the group, younger and somehow more greasy looking, sauntered up to you. "Yo Rumlow, get back here!" He was called back to the table but refused to return. "Hell nah, not with you hens clucking. I'm not wasting my time on your squawking, I'm going home with someone tonight." With that, he turned to you with the slimiest smile. 'Oh fuck no!.' Was all you thought while your eyes rolled. "Awe, now don't be like that baby." He crooned. "No." You replied shortly. He leaned over the bar. "Come on, I could treat you real good baby." You snorted at how dumb he sounded. "No." He didn't like that. His tone began to slip from icky charm to agitation. "What, you got a boyfriend? You're not a baby, you're a taken bi-" The call of your name interrupted your fist from flying into the guy's face. "Y/N!" It was the cheerful voice you never tired of hearing. Clint briskly walked up to the counter and leaned over for a quick peck. "Tony said he'd have Happy rope off the bar for the night so you could head home early." The Rumlow guy erupted in a vicious chuckle. "You gotta be kidding me baby. You're too young and cool for this washed-up loser. Do yourself a favor and leave with me." You saw Clint's jaw grind while the rest of his body stiffened. The nearly twenty-year age gap was a sore spot for him. No matter how many times you reassured him, told him you loved him age gap and all, he still felt insecure about it. Something in the back of his mind crept upon him from time to time, telling him he was too old to keep you happy. He feared you'd leave him one day. The New Yorker in you, specifically the Brooklyn in you, began rising from the depths of your personality. "Oh fuck off you mother fucking loser, My boyfriend is cooler than you'll ever fucking be. Get out of my bar you piece of shit." The man slammed his hands down on the bar but you didn't flinch a muscle. You were wound that tight. "The fuck did you just say to me you bitch." You slowed your words and annunciated for the dumbass. "Get out of my bar, you mother fucking asshole before I knock your ass on the ground." "Oh, your gonna pay for that you little slu-" Before he could finish his insult his ass was knocked on the ground, but not by you. Clint was hovering over him delivering punch after punch. Soon, the guy's goons were rushing over to get their boy. Clint was immersed in a mosh pit of jerkoffs, but it didn't phase him a bit. Despite their efforts to restrain him long enough to get a punch in, Clint was shrugging them off and delivering more grounding blows. When the original douche was up again and itching for a hit, Clint used the guy's own momentum to throw him behind and straight to securities feet. Coulson, and the rest of the bouncers he brought made quick work of collecting the rest of the goon squad. Soon they disappeared down the steps towards the entrance. They'd probably pass hands from club security to the usual cops stationed outside. Clint was a heaving, disheveled, and sweat smeared mess. And god was it hot! When he finally dragged his stare off the vanishing morons and onto you, his body started to relax. He looked down at himself and huffed out a sigh. "I'm sorry babe, but when I heard that name slip from his mouth with him leering at you like that, I saw red." You let out a good giggle. He was confused at first but accepted it when you hopped on the bar counter with a clean cloth to wipe down his body. "Don't apologize. That was fucking hot!" You poked his chest with seriousness. "Only thing that bothers me is that I didn't get to hit 'em." Clint's head tipped back as he roared with laughter. "You would be upset about that." He allowed you to continue cleaning him up until you were nearly done. He grabbed your wrists and held them to his chest. "But in all seriousness, you don't mind your senior boyfriend punching a jerk's lights out for yah?" His head cocked to the side as he studied your face for any hint of disgust. "Mind?" You scoffed. With his hands still on yours, you directed him to grasp your hips. "I'm turned on!" Before you could say more, Clint was between your legs and you were firmly ground into the counter. Your lips were locked in a searing kiss. Clint put a lot of pressure into this one. Teeth clashed and your lips swelled. His tongue slipped through your gasps to dominate every inch of your mouth. You had no air so when he pulled away you were gasping. You hiccuped as you tried to speak. From the grin plastered ear to ear, he enjoyed that. "And you're not a senior. You're barely forty and for barely forty I want to jump your bones every second of the day. So invest in some arthritis medicine for when you are old." Clint lifted you off the bar and plopped you on the ground, still pressed against him. "So I'm cool, huh?" You swatted his arm playfully. "Really?! That's what you took away from this?" "That, and you're horny." He nodded, being a little shit with his fake, nonchalant attitude. "Mhm..." You rolled your eyes with no subtlety. Then you pushed him off so you could get your purse from behind the bar. As you leaned over the wooden counter, you made sure your ass was in full show for your boyfriend. If Tony was letting you leave early then Wanda would be left to do your side of the bar; which was a mess thanks to those assholes. You left most of your tips for her as a thank you. "You're not as cool as me." You shouted to Clint, who was following behind you, still fixated on your rear. A satisfied smirk formed on your lips. "Damn straight!" He cheered. "Now let's go home so you can show me how cool you think I am. My Brooklyn Baby." Clint squeezed your sides which caused you to squeak. Again, you playfully hit him like you were annoyed. It was damn well clear that you were anything but annoyed with him. You were frustrated but in the best way. He was gonna get it when you got home or any place private enough.

[canyousevmyheavydirtysoul]

Bodyguard III: Avengers Assemble (Chapter 4) (B. Urie x Reader)

Break room. S.H.I.E.L.D Helicarrier.

Clutching a ceramic coffee mug as if it were the only thing keeping his sanity from slipping away, Brendon sat at the table in the centre of the room, staring into space as he immersed himself into the slew of problems he was currently facing.

First, there was the threat of worldwide destruction looming over everyone's heads.

Second, there was the fact that he had no idea whatsoever about how to deal with the newfound information that he was a mutant, or how it affected him – if at all.

Third, there was the issue of trying to protect you from a literal god, even though you refused to acknowledge that you were at risk, or that he was (and would always be) your bodyguard.

And fourth – the worst problem of all – you were still undisputedly pissed off at him.

Wallowing in self-pity was something that the agent never did, but for the first time in his life, he saw no way to iradicate any of the issues on his own – he had no control, no options, no way out. Wallowing was the only thing he could do.  

And he wasn't the only one who felt powerless amidst the anarchy.

The way you shoved open the door to the break room was strong enough to nearly shatter the glass, and Brendon looked up at you with a furrowed brow. You paid no mind to him, striding over to the kitchenette.

Yanking open the cupboards, you peered into them, searching for coffee beans. There weren't any – in fact, the cupboards were essentially bare – and you cursed as you slammed their doors shut.

With a sigh, you rested your palms flat against the counter and let your head hang down. You were frustrated, that much was pretty clear, and Brendon watched you intently, interested to see what your next move was going to be.

Creating a snowstorm, perhaps?  He'd seen you flip a table over over not having coffee before, so the possibility wasn't too far-fetched.

But no, you simply turned around and strode toward the table. Pulling out a chair, you let yourself fall into it harshly, your body splayed on the piece of furniture rather inelegantly.

You didn't speak, and instead joined the agent in wallowing. Brendon looked at you with a blank face, then slid his coffee across the table. You picked up the mug and took a long sip, exhaling heavily as you set it back down.

There was silence for a little while as the wallowing continued, then Brendon took the initiative and broke it.

"You okay?"

Sniffling, you wiped your hand across your nose and shook your head. "I, uh..." you frowned, looking straight ahead of you, at the kitchenette, "Dallon thought he'd found them, but the lead was a bust."

Brendon frowned too as he realised what you were referring to, and it was only then that his gaze flickered to your hands and he noticed the grazes across your knuckles.

He shot up in his seat, reaching out to grab your hand and pull it towards him so that he could inspect it closer. His jaw clenched as he gently rubbed his thumb over your bruising skin.

"You followed up on the lead alone?" he snapped, voice calm but still characteristically icy, "Are you crazy?"

"I wasn't alone," you growled through clenched teeth, yanking yourself out of his grip, "Natasha was with me."

"Still," he refuted, "You had no idea what you were walking into. It could've been a trap."

You sat up and turned your body so that you were fully facing Brendon and tightened your jaw. "Yes, but I took that risk, because there was a chance. A chance of finding Aaron."

Brendon's eyes darkened, and he leaned back in the chair. "Aaron," he repeated with a soft scoff, "Of course."

You squinted for a moment, observing his reaction. "I know you don't give a shit about what happens to him, but I do, alright? He means a lot to me."

"Yeah, so I've heard."

Recoiling a bit, you stared at him in confusion, taken aback by his comment. "What's that supposed to mean?"

Clearly Brendon had been waiting to have this conversation, since you'd barely even finished your question when he'd hurtled a response at you.

"You let him sing to you?" he asked, voice soft but full of disdain. He shook his head as if attempting to wrap his mind around the concept.

You made a mental note to never tell Dallon anything ever again. Traitor.

Annoyed by Brendon's disapproval – especially since he had no right to disapprove – you shrugged and delivered a snappy reply.

"Yeah. What? It's not like anyone else was jumping at the chance to serenade me."

Brendon said nothing, just stared at you. As usual, you couldn't tell what he was thinking, but you could tell that he was thinking a hell of a lot.

After a couple moments, his lips twitched upwards as he gave a dry chuckle, and he nodded.

"So that's why you're taking stupid risks in trying to find him? You're gonna miss date night?" he snapped, gesturing with his hands, "What, are you sleeping with him now?"

Your body heat up with anger, and you balled your hands up into fists to keep from lunging across the table to strangle the douchebag in front of you.

"You know, every time..." you closed your eyes and took a deep breath to calm yourself, "every time I think that you've changed, that you've finally let go of your fucking ego, you prove me wrong. Every single time."

He didn't say anything in response, but it wasn't necesssary, because you weren't done.

"I care so much about finding Aaron because he cares about me," you spoke slowly and clearly, wanting each and every syllable to penetrate Brendon's thick skull, "He was there for me when I needed him – he always has been – which is more than I can say for most of the people in my life."

You hit a nerve, and Brendon leaned in closer to you. You expected him to match your anger and say something harsh, but when he spoke, it was barely a whisper.

"I... care about you."

You shook your head profusely and leaned forward, too, hitting your fist on the table. "Except you don't. You don't care about anyone but yourself, Brendon. Especially not me. You've proved that countless times. And yeah," you threw your hands up and ran your tongue over your teeth, "maybe I am sleeping with him. But you know what, that's none of your concern."

Brendon's icy demeanour faltered for a couple seconds.

For some godforsaken reason, tears were beginning to well up in your eyes, and you blinked them away as you spoke softly. "You had your chance, Bren. And you lost it. You lost me."

You stood up and walked away.

✧ ✧ ✧

Banner's lab. S.H.I.E.L.D Helicarrier.

Bruce stood over the sceptre, continuously hovering a gamma ray detection scanner over it in search of some form of radiation. Tony was across the lab, looking at monitors as he shifted and solved various algorithms and equations.

"The gamma readings are definitely consistent with Selvig's reports on the tesseract," Bruce voiced, "But it's gonna take weeks to process."

Tony responded immediately without looking up. "If we bypass their mainframe and direct a reroute to the Homer cluster, we can clock this around six hundred teraflops."

Having not even thought of that solution, Bruce scoffed and gave a tiny smile. "All I packed was a toothbrush."

Letting out a short laugh, Tony made his way over to the doctor, pointing a finger at him.

"You know, you should come by Stark Tower sometime. Top ten floors," he made a sweeping motion with his hands, "all R&D. You'd love it, it's candy land."

"Thanks, but the last time I was in New York I kind of broke... Harlem," Bruce declinend the offer, looking down shamefully as he back to the events of four years ago.

Never one to accept defeat so easily, Tony persisted. "Well, I promise a stress-free environment. No tension. No surprises."

Suddenly, Tony poked Bruce with a miniature electrical prod, narrowing his eyes and leaning in closely in search of any kind of Hulk-ish indications. Nothing.

"Ow!" Bruce winced, pulling back.

Steve walked in on them, then, clearly pissed at Tony. "Hey!" he called to the genius, coming to a halt in front of the two other men, "Are you nuts?"

Ignoring the Captain, Tony spoke to Bruce, looking at him in slight awe. "You really have got a lid on it, haven't you?" he asked in intrigue, referring to the Hulk, "What's your secret? Mellow jazz? Bongo drums? Huge bag of weed?"

"Is everything a joke to you?" Steve shook his head, glaring at Tony.

"Funny things are," Tony acknowledged the Captain's prescence for the first time since he walked in.

"Threatening the safety of everyone on this ship isn't funny," Steve reprimanded, then turned to glance at Bruce, "No offense, doctor."

"No, it's alright. I wouldn't have come onboard if I couldn't handle... pointy things."

"You're tiptoeing, big man," Tony pursed his lips and pointed to the doctor, "You need to strut."

"And you need to focus on the problem, Mr Stark," the Captain said agitatedly.

Tony gave a bored look. "You think I'm not?" The genius' face grew serious and he lowered his voice the smallest bit, taking a slight step forward. "Why did Fury call us and why now? Why not before? What isn't he telling us?" He stepped back again and threw his hands up. "I can't do the equation if I don't have all the variables."

Steve straightened up. "You think Fury's hiding something?"

"He's a spy," Tony gawked, as if it couldn't be more obvious that The Director had other intentions, "Captain, he's the spy. His secrets have secrets." Tony once again pointed at Banner. "It's bugging him too, isn't it?"

Bruce looked up apprehensively and when he spoke, he bobbled the words. "Uh... I just wanna finish my work here and..."

"Doctor?" Steve pressed, wanting to know Bruce's stance on the situation.

A beat, then Bruce spoke.

"'A warm light for all mankind', Loki's jab at Fury about the cube."

Steve nodded. "I heard it."

Bruce gestured to Tony, raising his brows. "Well, I think that was meant for you."

The Captain had to restrain himself from scoffing in amusement. "The Stark Tower?" he asked, "That big ugly-"

Tony gave him a look.

"-building... in New York?"

"It's powered by Stark Reactors, self-sustaining energy sources," Bruce explained, "That building will run itself for what, a year?"

"That's just the prototype," Tony said proudly, cockily gesturing to himself, "I'm kind of the only name in clean energy right now."

Agreeing with the statement, Bruce gave a small nod, toying with his glasses as he finished his thought.

"So why didn't S.H.I.E.L.D bring him in on the Tesseract project?" he voiced, in referrence to Tony, "I mean, what are they doing in the energy business in the first place?"

There was a brief silence that fell over the lab for a moment, as all three men considered the facts. Tony broke it.

"I should probabaly look into that once my decryption programmer finishes breaking into all of S.H.I.E.L.D's secure files."

Taken by Tony's words, Steve widened his eyes. "I'm sorry, did you say...?"

"Jarvis has been running it since I hit the bridge. In a few hours we'll know every dirty secret S.H.I.E.L.D has ever tried to hide." Tony held out a bag of blueberries. "Blueberry?"

"Yet you're confused about why they didn't want you around," Steve snarked, annoyed at Tony's complete disregard for boundaries.

"An intelligence organization that fears intelligence?" Tony squinted and tilted his head slightly. "Historically, not possible."

"I think Loki's trying to wind us up," Steve said, not wanting to consider the fact that there were hidden agendas behind it all, "This is a man who means to start a war, and if we don't stay focused, he'll succeed. We have orders, we should follow them."

Tony skewed his mouth. "Following is not really my style."

The Captain scoffed under his breath and smiled sardonically. "And you're all about style, aren't you?"

The remark hit a nerve in Tony, and he turned his body towards the Captain fully, furowing his brow. "I'm sorry, of the people in this room, which one is; A. wearing a spangly outfit, and B. not of use?"

"Steve," Bruce appealed to the Captain, "tell me none of this smells a little funky to you?"

Steve stood there, taking in the possibility. The other two had a good point, but as an obedient soldier, he shook it off.

"Just find the cube," he muttered.

The Capatin turned and walked out of the lab. Still torn apart by the possibility, he stopped in the middle of the walkway. Then, following his gut, he walked towards the hull of the ship.

Back in the lab, Tony was voicing his distaste towards the Captain.

"That's the guy my dad never shut up about?" he snorted. "Wondering if they shouldn't have kept him on ice."

"He's not wrong about Loki," Bruce pointed out, "He does have the jump on us."

"What he's got is an ACME dynamite kit. It's gonna blow up in his face, and I'm gonna be there when it does."

"And I'll read all about it."

Tony looked at the doctor thoughtfully. "Uh-huh. Or you'll be suiting up like the rest of us."

The doctor scrunched up his face and shook his head. "Ah, see – I don't get a suit of armor. I'm exposed," his gaze lowered, as did his self-esteem, "like a nerve. It's a nightmare."

"You know, I've got a cluster of shrapnel, trying every second to crawl its way into my heart. This," Tony tapped the mini-arc reactor in his chest, "stops it. This little circle of light. It's part of me now, not just armor. It's a... terrible privilege."

"But you can control it."

"Because I learned how."

"It's different."

Bruce tried to read the screen in front of him, but Tony slid the data aside with his finger so that the two of them could see face-to-face.

"Hey," Tony's tone became serious, "I've read all about your accident. That much gamma exposure should have killed you."

Bruce nodded once. "So you're saying that the Hulk..." he closed his eyes after speaking that word; the word he all but hated, "...the other guy... saved my life?" He kept quiet for a couple seconds then continued. "That's nice. It's a nice sentiment. Saved it for what?"

"I guess we'll find out," Tony shrugged, making his way back to the other side of the lab.

The two got back to work at their respective computers.

"You might not like that," Bruce remarked after a minute.

"You just might."

✧ ✧ ✧

Briefing room. S.H.I.E.L.D Helicarrier.

In front of a monitor, you and Thor stood side-by-side. On the screen, Jane Foster's photo and record was displayed; Thor looked at her, remembering. With you two was Agent Coulson.

Out of the corner of your eye, you saw Brendon enter the space, but you blocked him out and refocused on your cousin.

"As soon as Loki took Aaron and Erik, S.H.I.E.L.D moved Jane," you told Thor.

"We've got an excellent observatory in Traunsee. She was asked to consult there very suddenly yesterday," Coulson added, "Handsome fee, private plane, very remote."

You placed a hand on Thor's arm, reassuring him. "She'll be safe."

"Thank you," Thor looked at you and Coulson, then all three of you moved from the monitor, "It's no accident, Loki taking Erik and Aaron."

Inhaling sharply, you nodded. "I know."

"I dread what he plans for them once he's done. They are good men." Thor rubbed the nape of his neck. "We pretend on Asgard that we're more advanced, but we... we come here battling like bilchsteim."

You and Coulson shared a puzzled look. "Like what?"

"Bilchsteim? You know; huge, scaly, big antlers." Thor placed his hands on his head and used his fingers to represent antlers. "You don't have those?"

You stuck your bottom lip out. "Don't think so."

"They are repulsive, and they trample everything in their path." Thor walked over to the side of the ship and looked out the window, lamenting about what has happened and what may come. "When I first came to earth, Loki's rage followed me here and your people paid the price. And now again. In my youth I courted war."

"War hasn't started yet," Fury said, walking in, "You think you can make Loki tell us where the Tesseract is?"

"I do not know," Thor gave a small shrug, "Loki's mind is far afield, it's not just power he craves; it's vengeance upon me. There's no pain that would prize his need from him."

"A lot of guys think that," Brendon piped up, folding his arms, "until the pain starts."

"What are you asking me to do?" Thor queried.

"I'm asking," Fury cocked his brow, "What are you preparedto do?"

"Loki is a prisoner."

Fury's face grew stern. "Then why do I feel like he's the only person on this boat that wants to be here?"

_______________________________

Thank you for reading x

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[virryth]

Prince!AU Johnny

Johnny came home ;; #WelcomeHomeJohnny

1835 words | Fluff

Where the prince sneaks out to be come a street musician, not knowing an assassin was on his tail

2nd prince of the dynasty, knows it’s not his responsibility to be king so tend to eff around a lot (but like not actually effing anyone)

the only one in the family with the same mother as the crown prince, but vibes so much better with his younger bros: Mark, Doyoung, and Jaehyun

he’s responsible enough to lead an army and has been entrusted with the title of General the last time the country went to war, but due to war PTSD he decided it wasn’t a life for him–prince Youngho is a pacifist

Prince Yuta however loves the art of war so he took over. When Yuta left for battle Youngho gave him a handkerchief and cried while wishing him good luck

Youngho: come back to me my prince

Yuta and Mak: bro ur embarrassing

likes the art of tea, often has tea party and invites all the local maids and courtesans to have tea with him.

To others it looks like a harem but prince Youngho knows how hard they work and how rare it is for them to just sit and have some time for themselves, so forget what everyone thinks as long as he’s doing his job as a good master to them

a true romantic, loves poetry and a genius at gayageum (12-strings instrument, similar: the Chinese guzheng, the Japanese koto, the Mongolian yatga, and the Vietnamese đàn tranh)

all the girls love lining up outside his open chamber to listen to him play at sunset

even the male servants and soldiers sometimes come to see him play because he’s just that good, the emotion he delivers varies from soft melodic lullaby to vibrantly dynamic compositions

Prince Doyoung: maybe you’re better than me at one thing

he doesn’t play outside the castle!! because he’s afraid he’s gonna get caught, followed, or hunted by assassins since the country has a lot of enemies

But prince Youngho loves sneaking out with prince Jaehyun whenever their distant cousin from neighboring kingdom Ten comes to visit.

The first time was for fun. He plays the gayageum in a disguise named Johnny, out in a small public space, and he got so immersed that by the time he was done there was already a crowd gathering

and he loves the feeling of anonymity so much he keeps sneaking out even when his cousin wasn’t visiting

you were hired by the mother of one of the younger princes to assassinate Prince Youngho. You’re a pay-by-the-job kinda assassin and you just take the information from an anonymous bidder and carry out your job so you really don’t know who your real employer is, and they don’t know your face or anything either.

You were given the assignment to kill Prince Youngho, a pity really, you heard he was a good-natured man with no vie for the throne, but a job is a job and you figured once you get into the castle you’ll probably hear some bad things about him anyway, and maybe what he looks like you honestly have no idea since you were never given an assignment to kill royalty of THIS country before

this is the first time you’ve been in this kingdom tbh, but you made a friend already! the guy called Johnny that plays the gayageum first spoke to you after you spaced out listening to him play, and you offered to pay him bc street musicians have it hard ya know just playing day by day for a meal

and he graciously took the money but used it to buy you both food, which you were surprised by

Johnny was your first friend and throughout your time with him you really didn’t want to lie about why you were in town, but no one wants to be friend with an assassin

until one day on one of your scouting of the castle, you bumped into Johnny!

and you definitely notice how he was dressed in the finest silk robe of all the lands, even if he looks like he’s wearing chamber garment and taking a night stroll before bed

“Hey what a pleasant surprise! although not really, what are you doing here?” he inquired after pulling you over to a blind spot from the guards

you didn’t want to lie to Johnny again, but you didn’t know how to react after finding out that he was, in fact, probably someone of royalty seeing as he’s in the castle wearing very expensive robe in the middle of the night

but you couldn’t, he was definitely Johnny as he recognizes you, he was your friend, and royalty or not, you couldn’t do that

“Johnny listen, you need to get as far away from here as possible 3 nights from now. I’m… I’m telling you this since I trust you with my life.”

Johnny: okay thanks but what why?

but you don’t get to explain further because a guard was approaching and you escaped when Johnny turned around to distract them

the next 3 days you don’t see Johnny. he missed his weekly playing at the public square and you really don’t know why, he’s never done this for the past 2 months you’ve known him

on D-day aka the day you’re supposed to kill prince Youngho

you still don’t know how the heck the man looks like because the one infiltration to find out his face was interrupted by your friend Johnny, who may or may not possibly be a prince and brother of your target. The thought that you’ll have to kill one of his brothers kinda hurt you, but if he’d listened to your warning, he should be far away from the castle tonight

from the intel you gather, Prince Youngho is usually alone in his chamber on one specific day of the week (today), and you know where his chamber is so you made your way towards there, patiently waiting for the wee hour so you can take him out

what you don’t expect is Johnny’s friend Jeffrey to show up

he was accompanied by another person in robe, someone he called Doyoung, also strikingly handsome like the rest of the people in this castle apparently. Goddamn you really hit the jackpot with meeting all the princes did ya

Doyoung: this is ginseng tea, remember to make him drink it all, Youngho said he’s been getting these weird heartburns lately that won’t go away

Jeffrey: don’t worry I’ll force it down his throat if he doesn’t hehe

Doyoung: Jaehyun.

Jeffrey/Jaehyun: i’m kidding

oh no… oh man.. you really liked Jeffrey you rEALLY do he gets all your memes! but if he is indeed prince Jaehyun, then intel has it he was very close with prince Youngho :( oh no he’s going to be so devastated..

you’re getting sad on the job which is very unlike you.. But you know this is what happens when you try to get close to people as assassin. it hurts.

but what hurts the most is the voice that calls out to Jeffrey and prince Doyoung

prince Youngho emerged from his chamber.

You feel like the world fell upon you, heavier than when you were eight and thrown out of the house by your foster family because you didn’t “belong,” heavier than the boulder your master dropped on your shoulder when you were twelve and called it “mental training,” heavier and more painful than when Johnny smiled and you know it was a smile reserved solely for you

the shock hit you harder than it should, and as you tried to cope with the reality that you would have to kill Johnny, you lost your bearing on the roof and fell

Doyoung, stepping in front of Jaehyun: did you hear that?

Jaehyun: yes, but hyung why do you have a sword strapped to your waist we’re in nightgowns?

Youngho: call the guard, we may have intruders

Jaehyun: hey… isn’t that… someone we know? Hyung look

You got up as fast as you fell and tried to flee, but Youngho was faster, and soon he was close enough to grab your arm before you got the chance to escape

Doyoung, sword drawn across your throat: who are you?

Jaehyun: hyung relax, it’s our friend

you don’t know what to make of that but for now you gotta go, can’t risk another prince see your face good god you’re a terrible assassin

So as Youngho released your arms, you bolted into the shadows and parkour your way out of the castle

the next day you see Johnny at the same public space where he performs, except it’s not one of his performing day and he’s just there in disguise

and Jeffrey nowhere in sight but next to him is prince Doyoung, the scarier prince you’ve come to meet yesterday

Johnny: hey! glad you’re here, this is um.. you know who he is but call him Charlie

Doyoung eyes you suspiciously before turning back to Johnny: can’t believe we’re talking to an assassin that was sent to kill you.

Doyoung was right. You don’t know what to say because there’s nothing to say. Your relationship or friendship whatever it was has ended and you were sure this is the supposed goodbye before you take off. It was nice, albeit awkward, but less awkward thanks to a third person being there, but you weren’t used to goodbye. The life of an assassin didn’t permit you any goodbyes.

Johnny: Charlie im only taking you with me because you were worried for my safety. Now that we’ve established that, please go entertain yourself at the market. Jeffrey and Jason are waiting for you (Jason = Jeno)

Johnny, after Doyoung skedaddled: work for me.

you: what

Johnny: look, i know you were hired to assassinate me, but i don’t care. work for me or just stay here, don’t leave or.. or i will search the world to find you

You, an awk at emotions: ….dude can you even leave the castle as the prince? like?

Johnny: okay sHUT UP we do have strict rules regarding that but my pOINT IS. I like you, stay with me.

His words were sincere, there’s not a hint of sarcasm in his voice, and no one has ever said something like this to you–especially not after you tried to kill them. You didn’t think you deserve Johnny or the idea of having a life where you can settle down.. but as you look at him, look at the sincerity and purity in his eyes, you know he meant it.

you nodded right before he pulled you to an embrace and attempted to swing you around

Jeno: ah look there’s Young—Johnny hyung!

Doyoung: don’t run Jason hold my hand

Youngho, under his breath: damn that Doyoung always showing up at the most crucial moment

you laughed as he lets you go, but not before promising him that you’ll stay, as a regular village girl or as his new employee, you’ll stay in the kingdom for him