#they're practically beating you in the face with it it's not subtle at all

[carboardserpent]

Jackson Storm is autistic, no you can't change my mind.

Anyway, have a little thing I wrote about it.

- - -

The track stinks, even through the helmet. Burned rubber and exhaust fumes are apparently one of the best things about the sports, if you ask fans and other drivers. It stings my eyes and burns in my throat. You'd think eventually you'd get used to it. You'd be wrong.

The sun is reflecting off advertisement boards placed above the seats of the stands. Every one flashes a glint of light through the top of the windshield that keeps catching my attention and distracting me.

The roaring of 40 engines is deafening through windows only covered by a net, and there's a voice in my ear trying to talk me through the plan I already know. I can hear myself responding, but I'm not actually sure what I'm saying. Whatever it is seems to be satisfactory, though - the voice in my ear goes quiet a moment before the engine roar gets louder.

My body responds without me telling it to. Foot down, shift up; it's automatic. Everything looks kind of hazy. Like a light mist has covered the track, even though the sun is shining directly in my eyes from over the top of the stands. I'm not really in control, but that's okay. I don't need to be.

I'm free to float in this hazy disconnect, watching myself drive like I'm a passenger in my own body. It's fine. I'll come back to myself when there's thirty laps to go. I always do.

[lanadelnegan]

Cherry 🍒

S7 Negan x Virgin Female Reader

Summary: You sneak into Negan’s bed in the middle of the night and seduce him into ‘popping your cherry.’

Warnings: 18+, smut, age-gap (reader is 18, Negan is mid 40's), unprotected sex, Negan taking your virginity & being sweet with you, mentions of family death, bleeding during sex, oral (both receiving), sitting on Negan’s face, breeding

Note: this is pure filth. If you’re uncomfortable with extreme age-gaps, please don’t read.

You shivered as your bare feet quietly shuffled down the cold hallway, stopping right outside the leader's bedroom door. The sounds of Negan's light snoring filtered through the cracks as you softly pushed the door open, pleased to find it unlocked. You tiptoed your way over to the empty side of his bed before sliding underneath his soft white sheets and inhaling the unique scent of him - leather and fresh linen.

You've always felt comfortable with him. Negan welcomed you to the sanctuary with open arms about a year ago when you were seventeen, after your father passed away. His men found you walking along the road one day and brought you back to Negan, who immediately took you under his wing and made you feel safe for the first time since your father died.

You're not like his wives. More like the daughter he never had and he's made that boundary crystal clear on more than one occasion. You've made several subtle advances towards Negan in the past.. All of which he has politely rejected by changing the subject or blatantly ignoring you.

Still, this doesn't stop you from quietly moaning his name when you touch yourself at night.

"Negan.." You whispered cautiously as you snuggled into the sheets. This wasn't the first time you crawled into his bed at night, feeding him lies about nightmares you never even had. However, this time.. you were determined to get what you wanted.

During your recent previous attempts, you'd remain on your side of the bed and Negan wouldn't even know you were there usually until the next morning - lecturing you when you woke up about how sneaking into his bed is inappropriate. You hated when he used that word. Like a strict school teacher.

A few moments of silence passed until you boldly shuffled closer to him, wrapping your hand around his arm and snuggling your face into his bicep. You breathed in the intoxicating aroma of his soft skin as your legs delicately pressed into his underneath the blanket.

"The hell are you doin' y/n?" He asked, his sleepy voice deeper and raspier than usual and it made your heart flutter.

"Can't sleep."

"I think we both know you're lyin', doll. You know you can't stay in here. We've had this discussion. It's ina-"

"Yeah yeah I know. Inappropriate, geez." You interrupted him, rolling your eyes in the dark.

"Exactly, so why are you in my bed?"

"My.. dreams. They keep waking me up."

"Nightmares again?" He asked, using a softer tone this time.

"No.. no nightmares this time. Just.. dreams."

Negan shifted uncomfortably next to you, scooting up a little in the bed and wrapping his arm around you in the process. "What kinda dreams, doll?"

You snuggled into the nook of his armpit, getting practically drunk off his manly smell as your hand carelessly glided over his shirtless, hairy torso until settling on his lower abdomen.

Without missing a beat, Negan placed his hand over yours, moving it higher on his torso. "Y/n.." He said like a warning, sternness dripping from his tone.

You ignored him, refocusing your attention back to his previous question. "I dunno.. they're just.. like.. sexual dreams, and then I wake up and I'm all frustrated because I don't know what I'm doing-"

"Stop." He sighed with frustration, running a hand down his face. "Fucking christ, y/n. You cannot say shit like that in front of me."

"Why not? It's not like you're my daddy or anything." You teased him, sliding your hand to his lower stomach once again. You almost whimpered when your fingertips brushed over the soft curls peaking out of the waistband of his boxers and your stomach fluttered when he didn't stop you this time.

He let out a long sigh, glancing down to your hand that teased the sensitive skin under his waistband. "Baby...fuck. We can't." He said almost painfully.

"Okay.. I get it." You said defeatedly, removing your hand and shifting to turn over before he stopped you, pulling you back in.

He sighed, like he was about to regret asking you this. "What happens.. in your dreams?"

With the moonlight beaming through the window, you managed to catch a glimpse of the lust that flickered in his gaze before his hazel eyes dropped to your lips.

"You treat me different.. like.. one of your wives."

"Yeah? And how's that, baby?" He asked curiously as his lips hovered next to yours.

"You.. kiss them." You stated hesitantly, hoping it was dark enough in the room that he couldn't see your cheeks burning red.

"Oh? Are you jealous, doll?"

"...a little." You admitted, making him chuckle.

He tilted your chin up, lightly gripping your jawline as his eyes dropped to your lips. He stared at them as if he was contemplating if he should give you what you want.

"One kiss, y/n." He said, closing the gap between you and pressing his soft lips to yours. You whimpered into his mouth, earning a slight smirk from him as he pushed his talented tongue past your lips. You couldn't believe you were finally tasting him and you savored every second of it.

He kissed you until your lips were sore, tangling his fingers through your hair and groaning every now and then, making your panties soaked.

You slid your leg over his until his muscular thigh was pressed right up against your aching center and you couldn't help but grind against it, desperate for some friction.

"Y/n." He warned, knowing what you were doing beneath the covers.

"Please, Negan."

His solid erection pressed into your stomach each time you moved your body against his and you imagined the way it would feel inside of you.

“Please what?” He said in between kisses, allowing you to use his thigh to get yourself off.

“Please let me come."

"I'm not touching you, y/n. But I can't stop you from coming."

And that was all the permission you needed to grind against him harder and bring yourself to an orgasm just from humping his thigh.

You buried your face against his neck and rode out your high, whining and whimpering as you soaked through your panties. "Oh my god, oh my god, Negannnn."

"Satisfied now, doll?" He chuckled.

"No.. I need this." You said, pressing your palm against the hard bulge in his boxers. "Please."

"You don't know what you're asking for, sweetheart."

"I do, Negan. I know exactly what I want.. And I've wanted you for so long." You kissed his neck as you rubbed his cock through the material. "I see the way you look at me. I know you want me too."

He sighed, accepting that you were right. "Maybe. But we can't always get what we want, doll."

You grinned, taking that as a challenge as you slid lower beneath the blanket, kissing his chest. "Why not?"

"Baby.."

"If you tell me to stop, I'll stop." You said, wanting to earn his consent before climbing over his legs and settling in between them. He sighed again, turning all the way over on his back to allow you better access.

You licked a line from the bottom of the trail of hair that led up to his belly button, earning a moan from him as he slightly lifted his hips in response. "Baby, you don't have to-"

"You said you wouldn't touch me, but you didn't say I couldn't touch you." You explained, pulling his boxers down slowly. You watched closely as his cock sprung free, and your mouth practically watered at the sight of it. You wondered how you'd fit it in your mouth, much less your pussy.

"It's so.. big.." You said, wrapping your hand around it. Your mouth fell slightly open at the velvety feeling of it as you stroked it up and down in your palm.

Negan was propped up on his elbows as he watched you through heavy, lust-filled eyelids. For once, he was speechless, waiting for your next move.

You lowered your head, taking the tip of him into your mouth and wrapping your lips around it softly. You sucked on just the tip as you looked up at him through your brows and watched his head fall back while the prominent vein in his neck bulged against his skin. Lowering yourself deeper, he let out a long groan when he felt himself in the back of your throat.

"Fuuuuuck, baby. Feels so fuckin' good."

You bobbed your head up and down on him until your jaw ached, wanting to make him proud. Finally, he pulled your head off of his length, and you watched as the precum leaked from his red, swollen tip. His breaths were heavy as he looked down at you. "Fuck, that's enough. You're gonna make me come, sweetheart.

"I want to taste you, Negan.. please?" You begged, looking up at him innocently.

"Yeah? You want me to come in your mouth?"

You nodded as wrapped your lips around his thick length again, tasting the bead of salty precum. You moaned at the new taste, sucking firmly over and over until you felt more of his warm liquid spurt out, coating the back of your throat. You moaned around him again, not taking your mouth off of his cock until you swallowed every drop.

Sweat ran down the side of his face and his chest rose and fell heavily as he watched you. "Goddamn. What happened to my sweet, innocent girl, huh? When did you learn to suck cock like that?"

"Just now. That was my first time." You shrugged, shuffling up his body until your legs straddled his waist and you pulled your shirt over your head, tossing it on the floor and exposing your perky, bare breasts to him.

You pinched your own nipples teasingly as you bit you lip and stared down at him.

"Fuck, you are so beautiful.” He said, watching you play with your nipples.

"You don't wanna touch?" You pouted, sticking out your bottom lip.

"Of course I wanna fuckin' touch you, y/n. You have no idea. I wanna touch every inch of you." He sighed, leaning up on his elbows again until his face was inches away from your chest. "But, I can't."

"Then don't use your hands.. lick me instead." You insisted.

He looked up at you through his brows before his gaze returned to your breasts. You leaned forward, brushing your nipple against his beard until it hardened even more. When it brushed his lips, he instantly took it into his mouth and groaned, sucking it gently. After a few moments, he switched to the other one, flicking his tongue against it. Your head fell back while your fingers intertwined in his slick, black hair.

"Negannn." You breathed out, and he finally pulled away.

"Take those panties off and sit on my fucking face. Now." He demanded, laying flat on his back.

You eagerly obeyed him, quickly removing your panties and climbing over his face before lowering yourself down slowly. You hovered over him lightly, not wanting to press all the way down until his hands roughly pulled you closer.

"I said, sit." He said before burying his face in your cunt. The tip of his nose pressed against your clit as his tongue devoured your dripping hole and he moaned with approval.

You lifted slightly, being too sensitive too his touch, but he leaned forward, taking your clit between his lips and sucking. You cried out as your orgasm instantly rushed through you and you soaked his face. You came hard and fast, but he didn't mind as he moaned loudly, lapping up your juices. You tried to climb off of him, but he held you in place, still licking you like his life depended on it.

"Negan.." You blushed.

"Hm?"

"That's enough." You giggled.

"I'll never get enough of this sweet pussy, doll. You wanted me, now you've fuckin' got me."

His words made the butterflies somersault in your chest. You hoped he meant it. You hoped he loved you the way you loved him.

"Lay down for me." He said, finally letting you climb off of him.

You did as he said, getting comfortable on your back as he crawled over you and settled between your legs. Looking down, you noticed he was rock hard again and he rubbed the tip of his cock teasingly in between your wet folds.

"Negan.. I need to tell you something."

"Hm? What is it, doll?" He asked, leaning over you and holding himself up with his palms on either side of your head on the mattress.

"I-I've never done this before."

He smirked, looking into your eyes. "I know."

"What do you mean you know?"

"I hear everything in this place, y/n. I've heard you talking about me to your friends." He pressed his lips to yours before looking at you again. "I've heard you moaning my name at night in your bed while you touch that pretty pussy. I know everything about you, doll. I pay attention, even when you think I'm not."

You blushed at his words as you stared up at him speechless, making his smile widen. "So adorable when you're embarrassed."

He kissed you again, so hard that it took your breath away and in that moment, you knew you were head over heels in love with this man. You just wondered if he felt the same.

“What else happens in your dreams, baby? Do you let me fuck this little pussy?” He whispered in your ear, causing a chill to run down your spine.

“Y-yes.” You managed to choke out, making him chuckle.

He leaned back up, placing one of your legs over his shoulder as the other fell open for him.

“You ready for me to break you in, sweetheart? Pop that sweet little cherry?”

"Fuck, yes. Please." You whined, scooting closer to him until the tip of his cock brushed against your sex.

Negan chuckled lowly, pressing the head of his cock right against your hole. He watched you intensely as he pushed just the tip in, stopping before he went any further.

“You good, baby?” He asked, making sure you were good to continue. Once you nodded, he slid slightly deeper, feeling resistance before pushing through with a force.

You cried out at the sudden ripping sensation, making him stop again.

“No.. keep going.” You urged him, already aching from how he was stretching you, but you needed him to fill you completely. So he did, pushing himself all the way in with one swift thrust.

Your mouth fell open silently as he pressed against your cervix and let out a growl.

He fell over you again, kissing your lips as he thrusted into you at a steady pace. “You did it, baby.” He praised you softly. “I am so fuckin proud of you.”

He moved slowly, making you deliberately feel every inch of him. He repeated this motion until your face was on fire and your lower abdomen tingled.

"Fuck, y/n. You are so fucking tight." He said through gritted teeth, looking down between the two of you as he leaned back up on his knees.

"Oh fuuck, look. at. that, doll."

You leaned up on your elbows, looking down and widening your eyes when Negan pulled out of you, revealing his blood covered cock.

His thumb reached down to swipe a trail of your blood off his dick before bringing it to this mouth. You watched him enamored as his eyes rolled to the back of his head at the taste of you and he moaned with satisfaction. You blushed hard at the sight of Negan tasting your blood.

“Who do you belong to?”

“Negan.” You answered without question, following it with a moan as he pushed back into you without warning.

“That’s right, doll. This pussy? Is mine now. Understood?”

“Y-yes sir.” You cried, as he pumped into you faster.

"Ow. Ow, fuck. It hurts."

“I know baby. I know. You want me to stop?”

“No.” You said quickly. “Please don’t stop. I want it harder.”

He smiled down at you proudly as his hips bucked into you harder and your eyes clenched shut as your fingers gripped the sheets.

Looking down between the two of you again, he groaned at the sight of your blood completely coating his cock and leaking out of you with each thrust.

You whined and whimpered, desperately wanting to come again. He grinned knowingly, pressing his thumb to your clit and making your body shutter. "You gonna come on my cock, sweetheart?"

You nodded as tears flooded your eyes and his finger started working over your clit more intensely.

"Yes, yes. Please make me come."

He fucked you fast and rubbed your clit in perfect circles, watching you come undone around him. Once your walls were done convulsing around him, he fell over you again, kissing your neck and groaning in your ear. "That's it. That's my good girl."

Wet noises filled the air as he fucked you unforgivably hard. "You gonna let me cum in this pussy, baby?" He asked, biting your earlobe.

You couldn't speak, so you nodded as your vision went cloudy and his thrusts became more erratic until he stopped suddenly, pushing himself balls deep inside of you as his dick pumped you full of cum and he growled in your ear.

"Fuck, fuck, fuuuck, baby." His thrusts started again, soft and light this time as he pushed his seed deeper inside of you. He kissed your jawline, then your lips, before pulling back slightly to look into your eyes.

"Y/n... I love you. I love you so much, sweetheart. And goddamn I love this pussy."

[ackermonie]

“listen. i’m telling you again. we’re NOT telling her i got you that lego set for winning that fight, am i clear?”

megumi nods with a roll of his eyes, arms crossed over his chest. “i don’t think she’s gonna be as mad as you think she will be. this isnt the first time this happens, you know?”

“regardless, the lego set remains unmentioned,” satoru points at megumi with a serious index finger, to which megumi rolls his eyes again as he resumes setting the dining table. “the tone of her voice on the phone said she’s coming for blood. i don’t wanna be on her bad side.”

“oh? so you set me up instead?!” megumi lets go of the plates to cross his arms over his chest. “is the strongest really such a scaredy-cat, now?”

“i’m not scared!” satoru is offended, even though he’s about to piss his pants. “and I wasn’t the one that decided that beating up 8 fucking kids on one go was the brightest idea ever, was i?”

“but you rewarded me for it!”

“he did what?”

the two of them freeze in their place, eyes widening as they hold each other’s gazes, too scared to look at the source of the voice coming from the kitchen entrance.

they stay quiet for a solid amount of seconds, and you remain unmoving. gojo gestures for megumi to look at you first, to which megumi replies with a subtle shake of his head, a thin sheet of sweat breaking on his forehead.

“i asked a question.”

thunder is rumbling, and when gojo decides to, very slowly, shift his gaze to you, it’s a scene right out of a horror movie when lightening strikes and thunder rolls on cue. you’re standing at the entrance, drenched from head to toe, a cut or two fresh on your face. your uniform remains unscathed, save for the water dripping to make a little damp pool beneath your feet.

“you’re home early, sweets,” gojo tries to approach, but you pin him in place with a glare. his nervous grin gradually falls from his face. “how was the mission?”

he hears footsteps approaching quickly, and when tsumiki comes to a halt behind you, seeing the state you’re in, she begins to slowly retreat despite satoru’s look of despair at her.

“you rewarded him.” you echo megumi’s words. the 14 year old swallows hard, eyes sliding from you to the suddenly more interesting kitchen sink. “he almost gets expelled, and you reward him.”

“but he didn’t get expelled!” satoru chuckles cheerfully. “he apologized, and all! didn’t you, megumi?” he nudges the teenager’s shoulder pushing him a bit forwards so he can take some of the impact himself. he lowers himself a bit to mumble to him through his teeth. “who’s the scaredy -cat now, huh?”

“I-i—“

“i leave the house for a couple of days— not even a couple, this was a day and a half, and i have to wrap my mission up quickly because my son’s being turned into a delinquent with his dad’s support?”

it takes satoru a couple of seconds to register the words that just came out fo his partner's mouth. he immediately looks at the flustered teenager by his side, to find a light blush on his cheeks and neck.

something warm settles behind gojo's ribcage. it was never addressed, that they're practically family. the only d word megumi calls gojo is dick, but fuck, by the look on megumi's face, the way his skin is painted pink, he knows that the seemingly stoic kid feels the same.

satoru doesn't even think you realize the way you addressed them.

tsumiki peeks her head from behind you. there's a sweet smile growing on her sweet face that he catches. he tries not to smile, he really does, but something in his demeanor is shattering right before his eyes.

"satoru!" you raise your voice, a frustrated frown painting your features, but all satoru feels is the love spreading through his body, his fingertips buzzing with it and all. "this is not rewardable behavior!"

"don't be mad at him..." megumi mumbled, finally taking a step forward. your gaze shifts to him, but he's looking anywhere but you. "he only wanted to cheer me up. this is my fault."

your eyes can't help but soften. gojo watches the change of expression in awe.

"if it helps, they were bullies." satoru chimes in a much softer voice, matching the look on your face. he ruffles the boy's hair, who doesn't push his hand away for the first time in a while. "it's just that megumi here has his own way of doing good. peculiar," gojo pauses with a little laugh when the teenager finally pushes his hand away grumpily. "but he's still doing good."

you finally spot the scar on his cheekbone, one that's already been tended to by satoru it seems, but you still walk across and hold his cheeks in your hands to check it out. its really not that deep, but something still tugs at your heart.

and satoru is still watching the changes of your expression, taking note of every little one. he knows you all too well, you see, and he knows that you're about to start tearing up any second now.

"why don't you guys go fetch angry mom here a towel or two?" he addresses the children, grabbing your wrist to let go of megumi, who looks too guilty for his own good right now. he brings you closer to him instead. "I'm afraid she'll only be grumpier if she catches a cold."

megumi hesitates, but tsumiki calls for him, understanding the cue better than her younger brother.

once they were both out of sight, gojo chuckles in endearment when you shove your face in his chest, uncontrollable tears escaping past your heavy lids. he grabs your head with one hand while the other holds you to him, soaked and all.

"oh baby," he sighs. he doesn't think he's ever been happier than this moment right here. "you just called him my son."

you punch him right in the gut. he groans out in pain, but his hold never wavers on you. "he is your son."

"i think we both prefer the name long-term pain in the ass, but that will do." he raises your head to look at him, and when he sees that red nose and tears down your cheeks, he can't help but giggle some more. "god, you're literally the best thing to ever happen to me."

"shut up." your cheeks burn in his hands, and you're unable to look away. "I was so scared something had happened to him. i would've never forgiven myself."

"the fuck do you take me for?" satoru fakes offense, raising an eyebrow down at you. you roll your eyes at him, from which he takes even more offense, letting you go with a scoff of disbelief. he dramatically removes his sunglasses and crosses his fingers in front of him. "I'll hollow purple your ass so hard right now and you'll never live to tell the tale."

"sure, honey," you pat him on the chest with one hand and wipe away your tears with the other, beginning to turn away from him with a, now more subtle, eye-roll. "whatever you say."

he grabs you and pulls you flush to him again, this time capturing your lips in a sweet, chaste kiss that has your whole body letting loose right there in his arms. your arms wrap around his neck like a reflex, and he squeezes you into him, a dull ache beating in him to just merge your bodies into one,, to have you in his very bones, and maybe even then it wouldn't be quite enough.

"i would rather be torn in two than let something happen to any of you," he breaks away from the kiss to peck your nose. you look into his eyes, and it worries you just how true his statement is. "what else do I have to fight for?"

=====================================

more?

[meazalykov]

custom shoes

kika nazareth x nikesigned!reader

summary: a pair of cleats starts to cause speculation about your relationship

you stand on the field, feeling the anticipation of the el clásico simmer in the air around you. 

barcelona and real madrid—it’s always been a heated matchup, but tonight feels different. tonight, you're debuting something personal, something that you helped create. the teal, ivory, and navy blue cleats on your feet shine under the stadium lights with the black away kit, and you can't help but glance down at them for a brief moment, smiling to yourself.

they're more than just shoes—they’re yours. and soon, they’ll be in stores all over, thanks to nike.

as you tug at your jersey and adjust your socks, you spot kika in the distance, warming up with the rest of the team in the starting lineup. she catches your eye for a second, and even from afar, you see that playful glint in her eyes. 

she's wearing the same cleats as you. a knowing grin tugs at your lips. she gives you a wink, her subtle way of telling you that she sees you. no one knows yet that you’d gotten her her own pair before nike even announced them. 

not just because she’s your teammate but because, well, she’s more than that.

“you ready?” kika jogs over to you, casually glancing down at your shoes as if she hadn’t been admiring them all week. 

her voice drops a little lower, a whisper just for you. 

“you look good in those, by the way.”

“i know,” you tease back, nudging her gently with your elbow. 

“and you look good in them too. we have to be careful; people are already questioning about these.”

she chuckles, her eyes flicking towards the rest of your teammates. 

“let them talk.”

you laugh under your breath, but she's right. fans had been obsessing ever since both of you had been spotted wearing the same cleats in practice last week. a few eagle-eyed supporters had even posted side-by-side pictures online, questioning why kika had the cleats before they were officially released. and now, with both of you about to wear them in one of the biggest games of the season, the excitement would only grow.

“do you think they’ll figure it out?” you ask, half-joking, but there’s a nervous edge in your voice.

“about the cleats or about us?” kika arches a brow.

“both.”

she smirks, pulling you into a quick side hug before anyone notices. 

“we’ll deal with it when we have to. just focus on madrid. they’re the ones we need to beat tonight.”

you nod, taking a deep breath. she’s right, like always. madrid is your focus right now. the cleats, the relationship, all of that can wait. 

soon after—the whistle blows, signaling the start of the match, and you slip into your game face, letting the energy of the stadium and the roar of the fans fuel you.

the first half is intense. madrid plays with their usual aggression, but your team is just as hungry for the win. you weave through defenders, your feet feeling light, like the cleats were made just for this moment. 

in a way, they were. every sprint, every touch of the ball feels perfect. like the shoes were an extension of you.

“y/n! here!” caro calls out, breaking you from your thoughts.

you spot her making a run on the right wing, and you send a perfect pass her way. she controls it beautifully, then sends it back to you just outside the box. 

without hesitating, you take the shot. the ball sails past the madrid keeper, and the stadium erupts.

one-nil.

kika is the first to reach you, wrapping her arms around you as the team piles on in celebration. her grip on you lingers for just a moment longer than it should, but you don’t mind. it's these small moments that make everything worth it. 

when the crowd settles, you give caro a quick smile, a silent thank you for setting up the goal.

the game resumes, and madrid retaliates hard. however, you're in the zone. each passing minute, your confidence grows. your cleats feel like magic beneath you, propelling you forward, giving you that extra edge.

in the 55th minute, you get another chance. a quick one-two with kika, and you're through on goal again. this time, you slot it calmly into the bottom corner.

two-nil.

as the crowd goes wild again, you spot kika grinning at you, her eyes filled with pride. you jog over to her, and she playfully nudges you.

“two goals, huh?” she says, her voice teasing but proud. 

“you’re really showing off those cleats.”

“had to make them worth the hype,” you reply, breathing heavily but smiling.

the final whistle blows, and the game ends in a resounding victory for barcelona. the team celebrates, but as you stand with kika, you can't help but notice a few cameras lingering on the two of you, zooming in on your matching cleats.

“you think they’ve figured it out yet?” kika asks, glancing down at her shoes, then back at you.

“about the cleats?” you ask, even though you know she’s not just talking about the shoes.

“maybe both,” she says, echoing your words from earlier, a small smirk playing on her lips.

you shrug, trying to act nonchalant, but your heart races a little. 

“if they haven't, they will soon.”

after the game, as you’re heading into the locker room, a reporter pulls you aside for a quick interview.

“y/n, incredible performance tonight. two goals in el clásico—it doesn’t get much better than that. how did it feel?”

you flash a polite smile, still riding the high from the match. 

“it felt great. madrid’s always a tough opponent, so getting the win today was huge for us.”

“and those cleats…we’ve never seen those nike boots on a player before!” the spanish reporter glances down at your shoes, clearly curious. 

“they look custom. are we getting a special release from nike soon?”

you chuckle, keeping your answer vague. 

“you’ll have to wait and see.”

kika brushes past you, standing beside ellie while catching the reporter’s eye. 

“don’t let her fool you,” she says with a wink. 

“those are going to be big.”

the reporter's eyes light up, and you know kika’s teasing just added fuel to the fire. as soon as the interview wraps up, you head into the locker room, shaking your head at her.

“you couldn’t help yourself, could you?” you say, plopping down on the bench next to her.

“what? i’m just helping build the suspense,” she replies, tossing her hair back dramatically.

you roll your eyes, but you can’t help but laugh. she always knows how to make you feel at ease. but there’s a part of you that wonders if all this attention—on the cleats, on the two of you—might lead to more than just product speculation.

a few days later, nike makes the official announcement. the "y/n" cleats will be hitting stores soon, and the campaign photos of you in them flood social media. 

fans go crazy over the design, loving the combination of teal, ivory, and navy blue.

what really sets off a frenzy is when photos surface of you and kika wearing the same cleats during all of the team's training sessions, well before the release. comments flood in, speculating about how kika had her pair so early.

"are kika and y/n collaborating with nike together? where is kika in the promos?"

"why does kika have them already? besties or something more?"

the comments only intensify when someone points out the little moments the two of you share on the field. the way you celebrate goals, the subtle smiles, the touches that linger a little too long.

you scroll through the comments one night, kika sitting next to you on the couch.

“look at this,” you say, showing her your phone. 

“people are starting to catch on.”

she leans in, resting her head on your shoulder as she reads the comments. 

“i mean, we’re not exactly subtle,” she says with a laugh.

“should we be worried?” you ask, half-joking, but there’s a serious undertone to your question.

kika shrugs. 

“let them think what they want. as long as we know what we are, that’s all that matters.”

you smile, wrapping an arm around her. “yeah, i guess you’re right.”

a few weeks later, the cleats officially drop, and they sell out within hours. 

later in the month, fans post photos of their new shoes, tagging you and kika, trying to guess if the two of you had planned this all along. 

rumors about your relationship continue to swirl, but neither of you confirms or denies anything.

masterlist

[joostsblog]

HEYYAAAAA, idrk if ur takin requests right now, if u want u can discard this BUT HERES THE THING!!!!! recently my tiktok fyp has been showing a lot of hand holding like in bed (iykwim, like holding hands while fucking) and such. even in outdoors too. AND I'VE BEEN DYINGGGGGGG to imagine how it would be with aggu && reader, like oh my god🤭🤭🤭🤭 the main request here: reader just really likes to hold aggu's hands whether they're fucking or hanging out for a date, practically just loves clinging to his body!!@!1!11!! THANK YOU!

your wish is my comand :) this is part two of picnic day which I've renamed to caught in the middle and there will be more parts! read part one here

caught in the middle part two: fingers intertwined ~ a Ski Aggu / Joost Klein x reader series

My masterlist here ✨💌 caught in the middle series masterlist here

Pairing: Ski Aggu x female!reader (+ Joost Klein x female!reader)

Description: When you and Aggu are finally alone, you continue exactly where you left off.

Word Count: 2.2k

A/N: So this makes "picnic day" (now called "caught in the middle") officially a series! there will be more joost x reader in the future parts btw

Warnings: 18+ ONLY, SMUT, nsfw, oral (m receiving), protected sex, piv, swearing, not proofread

Aggu's hand lay in yours as you walked along the road to your place. Your friends were still at the park but the both of you couldn't get to a place alone any sooner. It took two hours of subtle touches to each other's arms and thighs and stolen grins before Aggu conjured up an excuse for why he had to leave earlier. "Actually, I'm also gonna bounce, I've got a bit of a headache," you had jumped at the opportunity.

"Alright, we know what's going on," Bianca had said with a knowing smile and your other friends laughed along. Except for Joost who seemed to be a little off the whole day. You had tried talking to him about your plans for your visit to Amsterdam but he just didn't seem very interested.

But you couldn't pay him much mind right now anyway. Not with Aggu's strong hand in yours and your heart beating in anticipation of what those hands could do to you once you were alone at your place. You didn't have to wait long when you unlocked the door to your flat and you rushed inside, your bag dropping to the floor, his hands found your waist and your arms wrapped around his neck. You grinned up at him.

"Alright," Aggu bit his lip. "Where have we left off again?"

You took his chin into your hand and brought his face down to yours so that your lips would meet his again. He softly smiled into the kiss before his lips started moving against yours. He tightened his grip on you to bring your body closer to his. It was very sweet, you thought to yourself. It was almost as if you had been loving each other for years already. Your heart started beating faster at the thought of being with Aggu in that way. Being the one he would kiss in public, the one he would bring on tour with him, the one he would hold hands with while being out with your friends, the one he would take home every night and show just how much he loved you.

You ran your hands through his hair, almost desperately as you wished that thought would become reality somehow. As you grabbed a handful of his hair you had to stop yourself from losing yourself to this fantasy. You had to remind yourself that you had no idea whether Aggu even wanted you in this way, after all, you could also be a quick hookup to him. And just a few weeks ago you would have those thoughts about Joost anytime he would hug you or rub your shoulder gently. Aggu moaned into the kiss as you pulled at his hair and you could feel the arousal pooling in your lower stomach.

"I need you," you mumbled against Aggu's lips and he grinned. His hand grabbed the side of your neck as his lips kissed down your jaw and neck.

"You're in luck then," he said against your skin.

You took his hand into yours and quickly led him to your bedroom. As he closed the door behind him you sat down on the edge of the bed. You looked up at Aggu with big eyes as he stood before you.

"So pretty," he mused and softly touched the side of your face, his thumb grazing your lip carefully. You grinned before you opened your lips, making Aggu's thumb slip into your mouth. You quickly wrapped your lips around Aggu's thumb and softly sucked at it. "Fuck," Aggu whispered under his breath. "I can give you something else to suck on if you want," he said and you replied with a daring grin.

Your hands flew to Aggu's belt to undo it quickly. Aggu's hands softly stroked through your hair, caressing it and tucking it behind your ears. Soon Aggu's pants were down by his ankles and you dipped your fingers into the waistband of his briefs before pulling them down as well. Your mouth watered at the sight of Aggu's thick cock, flush against his stomach. You wasted no time and placed your hands on Aggu's hips before licking up a long strip up Aggu's cock to his tip.

Aggu's head fell back with pleasure, his hands still holding your head to guide you. You wrapped your hand around the base of Aggu's cock and angled it downwards to your mouth. Your lips wrapped around Aggu's tip, your tongue playfully licking at it.

"Fuck," Aggu muttered under his breath and your lips turned into a grin around his cock.

You slowly started bobbing your head up and down his cock, your tongue quickly lapping around his tip every time you pulled back. With your other hand, you cupped his balls and started to massage them softly. Aggu's moans tumbled out of his mouth and they sounded like lullabies to your ears. The salvia on Aggu's cock mixed with his precum, his dick fully slick which made your movements even quicker and messier. You removed your hands from his cock and placed them on Aggu's upper thighs instead, your mouth now fully working on its own. As you continued sucking on his cock you could slowly feel his thighs starting to tremble under your touch, his moans growing louder and more frustrated. Suddenly you went slower, painfully slow so, and forced Aggu's dick as deep down as you could take him.

"Fuck, (Y/N)," Aggu moaned and you hummed around his dick at the sound of your name coming out of Aggu's mouth in this way. You wanted to hear him say it a thousand more times and you were ready to do whatever it took to hear it happen.

You stayed there, your mouth flush around Aggu's wide cock, his tip nudging the back of your throat. You looked up at him with big eyes. Aggu bit his lip and you could feel your panties being completely drenched in your juices. As you started to bop your head again Aggu's hand stopped you.

"Wait," he said and you were pleased to hear a tremble in his voice. "I don't wanna cum yet," he said and your heart started beating faster.

You released his cock from your mouth and propped yourself on your elbows on the bed. Looking up at Aggu with a seductive grin, you watched him devour you with his eyes. It wasn't long before he climbed on top of you and his lips kissed down your neck while his hands quickly found the hem of your top and pulled it over your head. Your bra was also promptly moved to the side and you let your head fall back in pleasure as his tongue licked over your hard nipples.

Aggu's fingers danced over the exposed skin of your stomach until he found the hem of your skirt and pushed his fingers under the soft fabric. Your chest heaved in quick breaths with anticipation of his touch. Aggu's fingers touched over your core, only the drenched fabric of your panties separating his touch from your most sensual area. Aggu moaned approvingly as he felt you through your panties. When his teeth grazed your nipple your hand quickly flew to grab Aggu's hand which he used to prop himself up on the bed, your moans also growing more high-pitched.

Aggu's fingers intertwined with yours as you laid back on the bed more and he followed your lead. His lips found yours again, your chests pressed to one another as his hips fit in between your legs, your panties the only thing barring him from entry.

"Do you have condoms here?" Aggu asked after just pulling back enough to whisper against your lips.

You nodded eagerly before leaning to the side and opening the top drawer of your nightstand. Your nervous fingers couldn't find the packet fast enough as Aggu's lips mouthed down your neck. His fingers trailed up your thighs and under your skirt. He hooked his fingers in your underwear and finally pulled them down, leaving you only in your short skirt. You quickly passed Aggu the wrapper of the condom before going to remove your skirt as well. Aggu's hands quickly stopped you.

"Can you keep it on?" he asked almost timidly. "You look so pretty like this."

Who were you to deny this man any wishes?

You watched as Aggu opened the wrapper of the condom and put it on, your chest heaving quickly as just the thought of what was about to happen almost overwhelmed you. You bit your lip as Aggu positioned himself between your legs and looked down at you with a mischievous grin.

"Please, please," you begged Aggu impatiently. You couldn't wait any longer. Aggu smiled down at you, his hand gently touching your cheek before he nudged his tip against your entrance. "Fuck," you whispered under your breath and wrapped your arms around Aggu's neck to bring his body closer to yours again. "Please fuck me already," you managed to press out.

Aggu finally slowly slid into you and your fingers dug into the skin on his back. The sensation of him filling you up completely was so heavenly you had to press your eyes shut. The touch of Aggu's hand against yours brought you back as he noticed you getting tensed up. His fingers intertwined with yours as he positioned them above your head and he propped himself up by his elbows.

As Aggu bottomed out you both let the moans fall from your mouths freely. You wrapped your legs around Aggu's hips to keep him close. His hands in yours, your eyes locked and your bodies so intimately intertwined felt way too romantic for just being two friends. But that was a problem for another day. Aggu's hips pulled back slightly before he started thrusting in and out of you, grunts leaving his mouth with each thrust. Aggu's forehead rested against yours as his cock hit all the right spots inside of you. Hearing the grunts and moans of Aggu's voice and watching his face closely as it scrunched up in pleasure only pushed you further to the edge of your orgasm which you could feel fast approaching already.

Suddenly Aggu stopped his thrusts and you started moaning frustrated. Aggu pulled out of you and his hands found your waist before he motioned you to turn around. You positioned yourself on your knees and elbows and looked over your shoulder at Aggu in anticipation. His hands roamed over the skin of your hips and ass as he pushed the fabric of your skirt up.

"Fuck," he muttered under his breath and you bit down on your lip. With his hands grabbing your waist he finally pushed into you again. This position allowed him to penetrate you even deeper and as he started to thrust into you again, the tip of Aggu's cock brushed against that sweet spot towards your belly button inside of you that drove you crazy.

"Fuck, Aggu," you moaned loudly, not caring if anyone could hear you around. "feel - so good," you pushed out and Aggu thrust harder into you in response.

With his hands, he found your arms and pulled them to be crossed behind your back. Your face was pressed against the bedsheets which didn't do much to stifle your moans. The grip of Aggu's hands on your hands behind your back was forceful yet romantic and gentle at the same time. As Aggu's thrusts grew harder and faster you could feel your orgasm fast approaching until you couldn't stop it anymore. Your breath hitched and your body tensed up before the wave of pleasure rolled over you. The moans slipped from your mouth uncontrollably as Aggu continued thrusting into you until you could feel his hips falter. With a grunt and the grip on your hands tightening Aggu came into the condom before collapsing on the bed beside you.

You lay on your front trying to catch your breath. Aggu beside you, laying on his back. At just the right moment you both turned your heads to look at each other and you laughed.

"I'm gonna go shower," you stated weakly.

"Care if I join?" Aggu asked with a grin already knowing the answer.

~

A/N: Again, there will be more parts to this series, so keep your eyes peeled 🫶

[kitasgloves]

I'm in love with you

next track

— ♬ how haikyuu characters would tell you they're in love with you

— ♬ SFW, fluff, gn reader, no beta

— ♬ Kageyama Tobio

Kageyama was not familiar with romance, it was entirely foreign to him. He doesn't understand how people gain feelings for each other. He can't comprehend the enjoyment of having someone in your life. He thinks romance is trivial and doesn't bother associating with it. But as the typical turning point of every romance novel, someone was there to prove him otherwise.

You were in contrast to the setter. You met each other on your first day as the official manager of the SCHWEIDEN Adlers. Kageyama was curious about you. The sense of responsibility, resilience, and great humor oozed out of you that he can't help but be drawn. You were similar to a familiar orange-haired friend of his, but also different in many ways.

When he exhibited grey, you were bursting with colors. When he shines, you explode with light. When he took your kindness to heart, you brought out the best of him. After a long time of being exposed to you, Kageyama's heart can't help but beat so strongly when he's around you. It beats so strong that he fears he's going to need a second heart.

Kageyama has often thought about the beaming smile on your face, your melodious laughter, your hilarious comments, the scent of your clothes, the warmth of your skin, and the glimmer in your eyes. Kageyama concluded that he was probably going down with something, but what? The symptoms of his rapidly beating heart, his flushed face, and his antsy fingers are only present when he's around you. What the hell could this be?

"You're in love with [Name], aren't you?"

Hoshiumi teased him during their stretching after a practice match. Kageyama would've been quick to dismiss it with a logical response, but he falls silent and still. Ushijima takes notice.

"Hm, I notice the way you look at them, Kageyama"

"Yeah, you look all dazed and head over heels whenever [Name]'s around"

Their libero, Heiwajima added. Kageyama bites down an annoyed response and just shakes his head.

"I'm not in love with [Name]"

"Yes, you are"

"No, I'm not!"

"Yes, you are!"

"No!"

"Yes!"

Kageyama was about to smack Hoshiumi on the head when their captain Hirugami stepped in between them with a disappointed stare. Kageyama goes home that day, thinking about his feelings for you. He's come to accept that he has formed some sort of crush on you, but he tells himself that he doesn't want more from you. But as time progressed, these complicated feelings grew, clearly affecting Kageyama even when he was on the court. The coach had to bench him out one time because his performance wasn't up to expectations.

He had to do something about these stupid feelings because he couldn't afford to be constantly benched. Kageyama has thought about what the characters in romance novels do to confront such feelings. They express them through giving gifts and hanging out with their love interest. So, Kageyama copies them.

The setter tries to woo you by giving you small gifts during breaks, making sure he's as subtle as possible. He gains the courage to ask if you want to watch a movie with him. Kageyama thinks he's doing everything correctly when he compares your happy responses to the romance novels he read. As Kageyama grew closer and closer to you, these feelings grew as it began to stress him out.

What in the world is going on with him?

It's like he loses his athletic talents and logical thinking when you come around. It's like you've made him weak when all you did was behave the way you usually do. Kageyama frowns at the thought. What should he do next? In the romance novels, the character confesses their feelings.

Confess your feelings?

Kageyama swallowed as a bead of sweat trailed down his forehead. He thinks he should do it then maybe these feelings would go away. However, as he tries to set this plan into motion, he becomes speechless. The way you gaze at him warmly and tilt your head when he calls your name has his stomach in knots.

"Ne-nevermind"

He would say every time. Kageyama desperately wants to tell you how he feels about you but he can't fucking do it. And the frustration shows especially on the court.

"Ow! What the hell Kageyama!"

Hoshiumi complains as he fails to receive Kageyama's monstrous serve. His teammates have been murmuring how aggressive the setter was lately. They wondered what could have made Kageyama so angry. The coach blows the whistle and instructs them to take five. Kageyama sits down and aggressively wipes the sweat off his face. His eyes land on you handing the team water bottles, his leg bounces as he waits for you to come to him.

"Here you go, Tobio-hmmph!"

Everyone gawked in shock, their jaws dropping on the floor, and some dropping their water bottles. Kageyama has read somewhere in romance novels that characters sometimes confess their feelings with a kiss. So, he decides that if he can't say it, he'll show you instead.

When the setter pulls his lips away, he takes in the bewilderment in your eyes and the pink hue on your cheeks. He inhales and looks at you in the eye.

"I'm in love with you, [Name]"

All of a sudden, he can finally say it to you. Everyone cheers and hollers at the confession. The pink hue on your cheeks turned into crimson. You gently peeled yourself away from the setter, trying to come up with a response.

"I-uh, what?"

"I'm in love with you, [Name]"

Kageyama repeats. He sees you shield your face as you cutely shied away from him.

"You're joking"

"I am not"

"Oh my gosh"

Kageyama wasn't sure if he was getting rejected or friend-zoned. But as you regained your composure, you surprised him by pulling him by the collar of his shirt and kissing him. At this point, everyone loses it. When you both pulled away, Kageyama turned breathless as he blinked rapidly at you.

"I'm in love with you too, Tobio"

— ♬ Kuroo Tetsuro

Kuroo thinks his job at the JVA in the sports promotion division couldn't get more interesting until you rolled by. Initially, he viewed you as an adorable younger co-worker that he enjoys riling up. He couldn't help it when you gave him the most entertaining reactions. Immediately, the two of you created a bond of making the work atmosphere like a comedy show. Kuroo would purposely say something stupid to annoy you and you'll reply by scolding him or just whacking him on the head.

But under the comedic scene of your work relationship, Kuroo has taken a certain liking to you beyond the teasing remarks. He has grown to show ways in which he cares for you. When he's not being a teasing piece of shit, Kuroo checks on you like asking about your day or if you've eaten lunch. Sometimes he'd drag you to eat lunch with him, he'd even pay for the food. If the two of you were working overtime, he insisted on taking a heavy portion of the work so he could send you home early. When you'd protest, he'd make a clever deal to have you agree. Even the little things like lending you his jacket when you're cold, sharing his umbrella on rainy days when you don't have yours, and walking you home when it's late.

He wonders if you've noticed any of these things, he thinks he shouldn't care but he can't help but seek your reaction. Kuroo was in glee when he found you warming up to him and returning his gestures. You'd bring coffee for him in the morning, you'd share your lunch with him, and even invite him to one of your friends' birthdays. As time escalated, the somewhat relationship once filled with teasing was now replaced with unspoken tenderness.

Kuroo can act dumb and pretend. He can pretend he's not actively seeking you when in a crowded room, he can pretend that your smiles don't make his heart race, he can pretend that he doesn't care about your interests, and he can pretend that he's not falling for you. He would hide everything with his signature smirk and teasing comments, but secretly, he's dying to know if you would reciprocate his feelings.

So, he tries to quietly profess his love through his actions. Kuroo hints at his romantic feelings for you through the mundane things he would do at the office.

"I bought you coffee"

I'm in love with you

"Have you eaten lunch yet?"

I'm in love with you

"Here, you can borrow my jacket"

I'm in love with you

"I'll walk you home tonight"

I'm in love with you

There are times you're only treating every clue as his kindness and it's making his chest tight. Kuroo continues to do everything through his teasing.

"Your shirt looks like a clown vomited on it"

I'm in love with you

"Nice pants, [Name]. Did you steal them from your grandma?"

I'm in love with you

"You have the music taste of an edgy teenager"

I'm in love with you

"I hope no one has a crush on you yet because they're going to be disappointed"

I'm in love with you

You would always respond to his teasings with irritated sounds or physically hitting him. Kuroo was going mad at how every hint was flying over your head. He felt like he wanted to fistfight god. He was hoping, praying that you would take a hint and return his feelings because truthfully he was too scared to tell you.

"Just fucking tell them like the man you claim you are, Kuroo"

Kenma, his best friend, rolled his eyes at him when he told him everything about it. He hates how he was right. He needed to man up and tell you how he's absolutely lovestruck by you. By man up, he means getting drunk during a karaoke with all of his co-workers while singing karaoke. To be fair, the majority of the people were even more wasted than him. You were making fun of his drunken antics, filming them on your phone as blackmail later.

"You're wasted, Tetsu. Let's get you home"

"M'not drunk! Get your ass back here [Name] and dance with me!"

Kuroo pulls you against him and dances along to the sound of your co-worker's singing. You'd snort and laugh at him. He doesn't let you go even at the end of the song, he keeps dancing with you.

"Okay big guy, that's enough"

"You have nice eyes, [Name]"

He slurred and you raised a brow. You chuckled and shook your head, thinking it was just Kuroo being drunk.

"You have the prettiest smile too and the cutest laugh. I just wanna pinch your cheeks and kiss you right on the mouth"

This time you freeze and gaze at him wide-eyed. It may seem that Kuroo was beyond wasted with his drunken smiles and giggles. But you know what they say, a drunk man's words are a sober man's thoughts.

"...Really?"

"Uh-huh. You put on the ugliest outfits but still look sexy anyway. You drive me crazy, [Name]"

Your heart skips a beat as heat blooms on your cheeks. While your co-workers were still partying, you took the responsibility to bring Kuroo home since he was too intoxicated. Kuroo wakes up on your couch, shirtless with a horrible hungover.

"Here drink some water and take these"

You were suddenly there to hand him some water and pills. Kuroo takes them graciously. You called him over for breakfast as he tried to recollect everything from last night. When he fails to remember what happened after drinking god knows how much alcohol, you'd laugh at him.

"I did something stupid, didn't I?"

"I got a video of it, don't worry"

"Anything else? I didn't throw up on you or something?"

"Not really but you said some interesting things"

And when you told him about everything he told you last night, Kuroo was mortified. His blood was cold but his face was hotter than summer. He watched in pure embarrassment as you sent him a teasing smirk.

"I didn't know you thought of me that way, Tetsu"

"I-I didn't me-mean it, I swear!"

"Aw, that makes me sad"

"God, [Name]"

Kuroo ran a hand up his face to his hair and tugged the roots. He swallows and sighs.

"Fine, I did mean what I said to you last night"

Suddenly, you're speechless. He leans forward, finding the courage to elaborate his feelings to you.

"You always run through my mind, I love the smell of your hair, the sound of your laughter, the way your eyes crinkle when you smile, and I just..."

Kuroo pauses to catch his breath. You look like you were holding yours as you were waiting for him to finish. He offers you a sheepish smile.

"In summary, I'm in love with you"

It happened in a blink of an eye, you threw yourself unto him and crashed your lips against his. Kuroo can feel his heart go to a screeching halt. But as his eyes fluttered close and his hands found their place around your waist, he returned the kiss like it was the most natural thing in the world. The moment one of you pulled away, it seemed like the world had stopped.

"God, Tetsu. Here I thought I was an idiot for having a crush on you"

"Well, you still are"

You rolled your eyes and smacked him on the arm as he laughed. Kuroo kissed your cheek and smiled.

"But you're my idiot"

"Shut up and kiss me more"

— ♬ Bokuro Kotaro

Bokuto was naturally a free-spirited man who easily drew people into him and is easily drawn to people. It's mainly the reason why he has gained many friends and acquaintances. Bokuto was also easily intrigued by anything, especially if it was shrouded by mystery that aroused his curiosity. So, it was no surprise when he developed a fascination with you.

In summary, you were working as the MSBY Black Jackal's PR. You were reserved, professional, and oozing with confidence. You quickly gained the respect of both the athletes and your co-workers. Your first encounter with Bokuto wasn't anything spectacular, in fact, the spiker wished he had forgotten about it because it was embarrassing.

He has done something stupid that caused chaos on the internet and local sports outlets. It affected his image and reputation as a promising professional volleyball player, including his team. And as PR, you were tasked to handle it. It was decided that he should make an official statement to clear his and the team's name, so you created a list of do's and don'ts for the athlete's guidelines in formulating his statement and giving him the freedom to construct it.

You discussed with him the guidelines and Bokuto, eager to impress you, nods his head like an excited toddler. He knows he should've listened because all of the guidelines you told him were important yet it flew over his head. Bokuto was distracted by you the entire time you were explaining everything. He watched you like a fascinated owl, taking in your features. From the scent of your hair to your minuscule habits. He imprints your face in his head instead of the guidelines.

Fueled by the rapid beating of his passionate heart, Bokuto goes to make his statement. And it was a nightmare for you working as PR, the only thing that salvaged everything was how charmingly hilarious Bokuto was. It was a headache watching him say inappropriate and unnecessary sentences while live on television. You even considered resigning. However, after the ordeal, Bokuto comes up to you like an energized kid with shining eyes.

"How was it?"

Now, you were blunt. You made no room for sugarcoating your opinions. Yet the way Bokuto waited for your response made you bite your tongue. You sighed and merely gave him a thumbs up. He cheers.

Thinking back at it, Bokuto realizes how dumb he was. But hey, at least he still has his career and survived being canceled on the internet. Everyone was aware of how Bokuto was trying to befriend you, they didn't think much of it because the spiker always wanted to become everyone's friend. Somehow, he couldn't get close to you, or rather, you refused to let him near. It was odd considering that even Bokuto managed to be friends with Sakusa Kiyoomi.

"[Name] probably thinks you're annoying"

Sakusa said one time and it made his hair deflate. He didn't mean to come off as annoying so he tried a much tone-down approach. Bokuto would briefly form conversations with you during breaks, it was mostly about ordinary things like the weather or what you had for lunch. He thinks you're slowly warming up to him by being the first to initiate the conversations. Bokuto's heart flutters at you sharing your interests with him.

He knows things are taking a drastic turn when he finds himself sleepless at night. It was important for an athlete like him to have a good amount of sleep yet he failed to shut his eyes and fall into slumber. Bokuto's head was filled with impossible scenarios, romantic scenarios involving you and him. Bokuto would reach to brush your hair behind your ear, you'll wipe the rice off his cheek, you'll hold his hand, and he'll spin you around. Bokuto's eyes shoot open at the sound of his alarm, he checks the time and realizes he's thirty minutes late.

"Shit! I'm gonna be late for the practice match!"

He thankfully arrives just in time to stretch and play the match. While everyone was making fun of him for forgetting to put his hair up in his usual hairdo, you were giving him concerned glances. This was the fifth time he was late, and his performance on the court was less energetic, and he seemed sluggish too after practice.

"Bokuto"

You called out during the water break. Bokuto flinches but faces you with a bright smile.

"Hey hey hey [Name]! What's up?"

"...Are you okay?"

"Of course! Why wouldn't I be?"

"You seem...tired. Have you gotten enough sleep?"

You watched as he let out a nervous chuckle and it was enough to answer your question. You sighed and placed a hand on his shoulder.

"You should prioritize your sleeping schedule because it's affecting your plays. I know I am not your manager in the team but it could seriously affect your image during official matches"

"Right, yeah. Sorry, I'll work on it! I don't wanna put any burden on you as our PR"

"Bokuto..."

This time you look him right in the eye and Bokuto's heart skips several beats.

"I don't care about you putting a burden on me, I have handled much worse than you"

You tilt your head towards Atsumu and Sakusa, Bokuto has to hold back a laugh at that. You suppress a smile.

"I care about your well-being and health because you're my..."

You paused, casting your gaze away. If Bokuto's hair was styled up it would start to deflate right now.

"Because you're my friend"

You finished with a hint of pink on your cheeks. Bokuto holds back the urge to clutch his chest at the rare display of cuteness from your usual stoic face. What you said both gave Bokuto a sense of hope and despair. It meant that there was a possibility you could view him as more than a friend or a friend only.

He's been overthinking about it since then, resulting in losing more sleep. Bokuto didn't want to disappoint you but damn it these feelings are getting really complicated! He figured he had to let it off his chest someday or he was just going to continue suffering by carrying these unspoken feelings.

Bokuto tries to ask you if you want to go out and see a movie. The first time, you decline. But he doesn't lose hope. He asks again if you want to go party with him at a club with the team, and you are quick to say no. Well, third time's a charm.

"[Name], would you like to grab dinner with me tomorrow?"

"No, I'm sorry but I have something planned for tomorrow evening already"

Ouch

Bokuto brings a fist to his chest and falls down to his knees in a dramatic display, having to be rejected for the third time. You might as well have stabbed him right in the chest. All of a sudden, you extended him a small envelope. He gives you a puzzled look. He takes it and it was an invitation to your friend's birthday party, his eyes went wide at the bold and italic instruction that one must bring a date.

"Huh?"

"See, I can't grab dinner with you tomorrow, I need a date for my friend's birthday party. I'm wondering if you're willing to be my date"

"Yes!"

The spiker grins at you and raises his fists up in victory in a ridiculous manner. You chuckled and shook your head. Bokuto literally pleaded with his friends (a.k.a. the entire team) to help him get ready for your date with him tomorrow. Bless them because they had his back from his outfit to styling his hair.

Bokuto arrived at your place to pick you up and my god did he almost fainted at how gorgeous you looked that evening. When you linked your arm with his on the way to the venue, he felt like tearing up. But he keeps it together. Everyone at the party complimented his looks, the way his hair was swept back to show his handsome face, and his tasteful choice of clothing. He thinks the night was going well. After your friend blows their candles, the party resumes.

There was lively music, and people scattered around either dancing or talking. But you and Bokuto were stuck in your own world, sipping champagne and exchanging hushed jokes. When a soft melody begins, Bokuto holds his breath and says a silent prayer.

"Would you like to dance with me, [Name]?"

He asks while extending his hand out. You take it with a nod and he feels like his body is floating. Everyone was waltzing with their partner and when Bokuto placed his hands around your waist he froze. Panic is visible on his face.

"What's wrong, Bokuto?"

"I don't know how to waltz"

"Oh, then let me teach you"

Bokuto's heart melted. There was trial and error. Bokuto keeps stepping on your foot while making an absolute fool of himself and earning a few amused giggles from other people. You only smiled patiently at him as he found the perfect rhythm.

"Holy shit, I did it!"

"Congrats, you're a quick learner"

The spiker smiled proudly at himself and you couldn't help but laugh. As the gentle music continued while you two waltzed on the dancefloor, Bokuto gulped. This was his chance! His chance to tell you how he feels. However, you opened your mouth first.

"Bokuto, do you have feelings for me?"

Crunch!!!

You winced as your face displayed pain when Bokuto stepped on your foot, rather painfully. You both pulled away. He becomes frantic as he apologizes profusely, ruining the moment between you two. Great, he fucked it up. He couldn't meet you in the eye.

"Bokuto"

He looks down at his feet, his face featuring an embarrassed flush. You sighed.

"Bokuto, look at me"

He continues to behave like an embarrassed child. You grabbed his broad shoulders and forced him to look at you.

"Kotaro"

Your eyes met his and his chest tightened at the way you finally said his first name. You were giving him a soft look, silently assuring him that everything was fine. Bokuto draws in a sharp inhale.

"I'm in love with you, [Name]"

A lot of people turned their heads at the loud proclamation. Your eyes went wide and your face heats up at the sincerity of his tone.

"I've been in love with you since the day I met you. You're just so interesting and I've been thinking about you so much that I couldn't sleep properly"

Bokuto confessed. A few people gasped, it seemed like the music was fading away too. The blush on your face intensified as you watched him rigidly.

"I want to touch you, hold you, and kiss you. I want to be the one that makes you smile and laugh. I want to spend the rest of my days with you if you'll allow me"

There was a collective sound of 'aww's from the moved audience watching the spectacle. You open your mouth to say something but Bokuto keeps going.

"I want to buy a house with you, pay taxes with you, and grow old with you. I...I want to marry you!"

In a flash, Bokuto gets on one knee making everyone gasp as if he's going to pull out a tiny box with a shiny ring. You frantically wave your hands around.

"Wait, stop! This is going too fast! I'm pretty sure you don't have a ring right now, Kotaro"

"Oh, shit, you're right"

Bokuto stands back up on his feet. You quietly went over to him and grabbed his large hands. The weight of the people's anticipating eyes goes unbothered to you.

"I suppose you have beat me, I meant to confess to you first. I'm in love with you too, Kotaro"

And the crowd goes wild. Bokuto lets out a scream and picks you up in his arms spinning you around like he'd imagine. The cheering goes deaf in his ears as he focuses on the sound of your laughter. It fills him with absolute happiness as nothing could compare to the joy of knowing you're in love with him too.

Although it seemed like a win for him, it ended up being a workload for you as PR because someone filmed the entire scene and posted it on social media as it went trending. Now everyone was dying to know who was the person that Bokuto Kotaro ended up offering his heart to.

— ♬ Oikawa Tooru

Contrary to popular belief, Oikawa had no luck when it came to romance. Sure, he had gorgeous looks, a hot bod, a charming personality, and a heart of gold. But he had no one to willingly lend his heart to. He had relationships in the past, all resulting in failure. But then he didn't mind, he didn't mind if he had no one to hold or share his secrets with. The Oikawa then wouldn't have cared if he didn't have someone to kiss. However now, he's growing conscious.

Oikawa was no stranger to being a heartthrob. He was used to being surrounded by people thirsting for his attention. Sometimes he reveled in it. But he thought how nice it was to have someone in the crowd to lock eyes with and smile because they saw him as who he really was. Perhaps, he's been consuming too much romantic media lately.

The setter is a hopeless romantic who believes in true love even though he hasn't technically encountered it yet. But he wishes to. Oikawa was growing tired of the media portraying him as a cool and super-talented athlete. He's just a stupid guy who's a volleyball nerd and obsessed with astrology. He's not out at night hooking up with someone, he watches Ghibli movies and listens to popular love songs. Oikawa was just an ordinary guy who wanted to be loved for who he truly was.

When he arrived back in Japan to have a vacation and reunited with his best friend, Oikawa wasn't expecting anything to happen. He thinks this is just another long vacation and after that, he'll return to Argentina and be back to the pathetically single moron that he is. And then he met you. Iwaizumi's roommate. Previously when he returned to Japan, Iwaizumi lived alone in his apartment, so he was surprised to see you answer the door instead of his childhood best friend.

"Woah, you're not Hajime"

You said and gave him a glance from head to toe. Oikawa stood stiffly with an awkward smile, hugging all his luggage. You raised a brow.

"You friends with Hajime?"

"Yes, I'm his childhood best friend"

Judging from the way you called his best friend by his first name, he thought you two were close. You furrowed your eyebrows and suddenly snapped your fingers.

"Oh, you! Heard a lot about you from my roommate, you're Oikawa right?"

"Yep"

"Cool, come in! Hajime was out doing some errands"

You smiled and opened the door wider to let him in. The apartment was livelier compared to the last time he visited. There were plants and aesthetic decorations that filled the spaces. Oikawa settled his things down by the living room and took a seat. You were only wearing a pair of shorts and an oversized shirt as you walked to the kitchen.

"You hungry, bud?"

"Oh, no thank you"

"Good, I don't know what to feed you. Hajime does the cooking around here"

You laughed and the setter found himself chuckling. Your demeanor was welcoming and interesting. Oikawa watched you walk around the place tidying up, seemingly to make everything more presentable. Oikawa decides he wants to get to know you more.

"The last time I visited, Iwa-chan didn't have a roommate"

"Really? Well, I kind of begged him to let me stay here since my last place was shitty"

"So, how long have you known him?"

"Long enough to know he's obsessed with Godzilla"

You and Oikawa shared a laugh. You settled in the living room, plopping on the beanbag across from the setter, and chatted. Somewhat having a playful interview and getting to know each other. The way you matched Oikawa's personality impressed him greatly. Why the hell has Iwaizumi not introduced you to him yet?

You were a breath of fresh air. You talked to him without regard for his popularity, hell, he thinks you don't have a clue he's a famous athlete. Maybe you didn't give a shit, either way, he was glad. Both of you found a lot of common interests like volleyball and astrology. Oikawa for the first time felt like someone had finally glanced at his true self.

By the time Iwaizumi arrived at the apartment, you and Oikawa were blasting Taylor Swift in the speakers and talking about zodiac signs while sprawled out on the floor. There was a mixture of shock and disgust on Iwaizumi's face.

"Hi, Hajime!"

"Hi, Iwa-chan!"

You both greet him enthusiastically. Iwaizumi closed the door and crossed his arms, giving you two an odd look. He pointed at his best friend.

"How long have you been here?"

"Long enough for me to know all of your embarrassing high school moments"

You replied with a mischievous giggle. Oikawa copied you. Iwaizumi mumbled to himself as he entered the kitchen while rubbing his temples. Oikawa was going to stay for a week, occupying the couch to sleep on. But the two of you grew close so quickly and suddenly, that you two would lay your mattress in the living room and have some sort of slumber party every night.

Oikawa expected to catch up with Iwaizumi but instead ended up bonding with his roommate instead. How could he not when you literally matched his energy so well? It was like you were the missing piece of his soul that made him whole. Like the Yin to his Yang, the sun to his moon, or the water to his fire. It seemed like the planets aligned when he met you.

His stay in Japan was unexpectedly filled with new memories with you. The two of you were always out and about either partying or exploring. Iwaizumi witnessed how his best friend slowly carved a special place for you in his life. The man witnessed everything. When you two would get home at five in the morning wasted, later Oikawa would assist you when you're throwing up in the toilet. When you two would get into stupid arguments, mostly Oikawa would get upset and you would be the first to apologize as you two made up. When you and he would blast loud music in the speakers and have a mini concert, Iwaizumi got a complaint from the neighbors.

And most importantly, Iwaizumi witnessed how his best friend was falling in love with you. From the tender stares to the caring gestures, it was no mistaking that Oikawa had feelings for you. Iwaizumi knew the setter well, how he was a romantic but could be devasted and hurt because of it. How he desperately worked himself to the bone to become better. And how he longed to have someone who saw him past the charms.

Oikawa pouted when Iwaizumi forced him to hang out with him and Matsukawa and Hanamaki. The four of them went out for drinks and did some catching up. However, Oikawa was occupied texting on his phone, most likely chatting with you.

"Hey! Iwa-chan give that back!"

The setter whined when Iwaizumi snatched his phone and pocketed it. Matsukawa and Hanamaki laughed at him.

"Are you seriously talking to [Name] right now?"

"Huh? How did you know?"

"Iwaizumi filled us up with your unfolding romance with them"

Hanamaki replied. Oikawa glared at him and blushed, Iwaizumi and Matsukawa shared amused laughs.

"Just admit it Shittykawa, you're in love with [Name]"

"I am not!"

The way the setter immediately denied provided a great amount of proof. Oikawa loved to deny the truth, especially how painful it was. He denied how he wasn't naturally born with talent, he denied the fact he hasn't gone once to Nationals, and he denied how he was harboring strong feelings for you.

Because the truth was he was petrified. Now, that he found someone who can make his heart beat so fast, he doesn't want to fuck it up. Oikawa doesn't want to fuck up the friendship he had with you. Oikawa was sure you only saw him as a friend and only held platonic feelings for him. He thinks confessing to you would just fuck up everything, so it was better to stay as friends than ruin what he had with you.

"Just confess, you idiot"

"I can't, Mattsun!"

"Why? Are you scared?"

"...Yes"

Oikawa exhales. His friends shared a look. He was about to leave Japan tomorrow. He won't be seeing you again for god knows how long. His heart aches at the thought of being so far away from what he deemed as his soulmate. He felt so stupid for falling so easily. Curse his stupid heart and stupid feelings.

"Oi, you're not stupid for falling in love, okay?"

Iwaizumi reassured him. Oikawa gives him a grateful smile and gulps down his beer.

"I know. It's just never met someone who made me feel so complete and I would hate to ruin everything because I admitted what I feel"

"That's love, dude. You get happy and hurt at the same time"

Hanamaki said. Matsukawa gives him a pat on the back as he tries not to get teary-eyed.

"I shouldn't have returned here"

"Hey, cut that out. How else you would've met [Name]?"

"Yeah. Just tell [Name] how you feel and if all goes to shit, you'll still have us"

"No homo tho"

Everyone shared a lighthearted laugh. Oikawa has really been counting his blessings but meeting you was the greatest blessing of all. As he finishes another glass of beer, Oikawa takes a confident stand.

"Okay! I'll tell them how I feel!"

All of his friends cheered and patted him on the back. Oikawa thinks it will be fine, even if he'll inevitably end up sobbing like an ugly baby on his flight tomorrow back to Argentina. As he returns back at the apartment, he sees you scrolling on your phone. When you see him enter, a warm smile spreads on your lips and it makes his knees weak.

"Hey, Tooru"

"[Name], can I tell you something?"

"Sure! I got something to tell you too"

"Oh, you go first!"

Oikawa insisted. He was nervous as fuck, he needed spare time to prepare how to spill his feelings for you. But you shook your head and laughed.

"Nah, you can go first"

Shit

"No, I insist"

"Come on, Tooru. I don't mind"

"No, you go first"

"No"

"Yes"

"No!"

"Ugh! Fine!"

You raise a brow as he runs his hands down his face with a frustrated groan. Oikawa looks you in the eye, his eyes growing wet the longer he stares.

"I've been thinking this through and...fuck! I can't do it!"

The setter turns away and collapses on the couch. You give him a concerned look and join him on the couch.

"Hey, you know you can tell me anything?"

"I'm leaving tomorrow, [Name]"

"I know, it's making me sad as fuck, Tooru"

"I...I don't want to leave"

"But you can't"

"I don't want to leave you"

Oikawa sniffs. You frowned and grabbed his hands, he looked at you. Your gaze meant something deeper, like you were gazing directly at his soul, witnessing his flaws but seeing past them by holding his hands. Oikawa was convinced you have always seen the real him no matter how much he pretended. And he stares back at you like you're the best thing that has ever happened to him in his life. Oikawa inhales.

One, two, three...

"I-"

"I'm in love with you, Tooru"

You blurted out. Oikawa's eyes bulge out of its sockets. His mouth goes agape as his face displays sheer bewilderment. You nervously smiled.

"Sorry, I can't stand seeing you leave without telling you how I feel"

"[Name], what the fuck?"

"I understand if you don't feel the same-"

"I'm fucking in love with you too, [Name]"

Oikawa finally confesses. You gasp in response before letting out a breathless laugh. He doesn't miss the way your eyes became glassy.

"Oh my god, tell me you're kidding!"

"No! Never! [Name], I'm in love with you. I was about to tell you but I got nervous"

"We're fucking idiots"

You said as you both burst out laughing. Tears gathered in the corners of your eyes both from relief and joy. As the laughter subsided, you both gazed softly at each other. This time Oikawa grabs your hands.

"[Name], you have completed me. You see me as who I am and I just want to be on your side all the time"

He goes to kiss your knuckles turning your face red. Oikawa sighs as he traces your knuckles with his thumbs.

"But I have to leave you behind, here in Japan. I wouldn't mind if you want to start a long-distance relationship"

"Oh, about that"

"Yeah?"

"Remember when I said I was going to say something to you?"

"Oh, wasn't that the confession?"

"Nope!"

You grinned and went over to your bag and pulled out your passport and a flight ticket. You showed it to Oikawa.

"I'm coming with ya to Argentina!"

"Oh my god!"

Oikawa couldn't control himself as he picked you up in his arms and spun you around the living room. You laughed as he excitedly babbled how he was excited to return back to Argentina with you. Oikawa felt like the luckiest man alive, striking the ultimate jackpot to romance. Because he gets to be with you, who made his heart whole.

©kitasgloves (do not steal or copy)

[brain-rot-central]

Sonnet of the Lone Cardinal, Ch. 3

A/N: Thank you all for your patience. She's finally here.

Word count: 3.5k Rating: M (nothing sexual; mostly topics that may be uncomfortable) Pairing: Ascended Astarion/Fem!Tav Warnings: 18+; Mentions of murder, violence, death, blood, gore (very minor), blood drinking, sexual acts. Angst, alcohol consumption.

Summary: Tav and Shadowheart finally reunite for a simple lunch date. Their discussion turns toward Astarion, and a particularly unsettling event.

Chapter track: Cry - Cigarettes After Sex

♥ Previous Chapter ♥ Next Chapter ♥ Link to Ao3

Dawn breaks over the horizon. The subtle stirrings of a city coming to life once more fill the streets. Maids and matrons pat down their mats just beyond their front doors. Street vendors begin setting up their carts. A young boy with a satchel carrying copies of the Gazette goes from home to home delivering the day’s latest print.

Tav kneels before her front window, watching the street below. A few days have passed since her meeting with Jaheira. Astarion hasn't been to see her; the longest stretch of time between visits since they began their ordeal. She fully expected a visit last night. However, he never came. She hates admitting it to herself, but she feels a shallow pit in her stomach beginning to form having gone without him for so long.

Standing up, Tav closes the window and brings herself into the washroom to prepare for the day ahead. An old friend has requested a lunch date; she hasn’t seen Shadowheart for many months, and owes her dearest friend an audience.

Tav pours the carafe of water into the wash basin, dipping a cloth into the water before bringing it to her face. Studying the various soaps and creams she has lined along the shelf, she chooses one of nettlebark, smelling of citrus and pine forests. This scent is one of her favorites, and she’s relieved she can still find comfort within the smell. Scents are still a trigger for her nausea at this stage in her pregnancy. The usually tempting smell of breakfast wafting about the air of the city turns her stomach upright, now. Tav has found that if she holds off eating until mid-morning, she's in the clear. 

Yet… odd cravings have begun. 

For instance, she's since gone back to the butcher's, profusely apologetic to poor Gideon. Of course, the kind soul that he is, he was nothing but understanding and even offered her a few rations free of charge. Tav politely declined his offer, yet as she stared into the display cases full of various raw meats, she found herself practically bewitched by the sight. Rich, bloody beef; cut straight from the animal. She recalls how intensely saliva pooled within her mouth staring at the provisions. Tasting the metallic twang of the blood on her tongue, swallowing thickly as Gideon returned with her order.

Patting her face dry with a small towel, Tav returns into the main room and begins rummaging through her dresser for the day's outfit. The midnight blue bottle Jaheira gave her sits atop the dresser. Tav considers the potion every morning, but quickly declines as her heart aches at the thought. 

She believes the weather to be rather warm today, so she settles on an airy, light blue sundress and a wide brimmed hat. The gray scarf she recently bought matches perfectly as she stands before her mirror, assembling the ensemble. 

The ghost of scars catches her eyes as she adjusts the scarf around her neck. They're light enough; most wouldn't notice, though to her, they blare. Permanent gifts from her months-long affair with Astarion during their journey to defeat the Absolute. His bite was always a clean one, never marring her tanned skin. Two faint fang marks are all that remain, Tav taking the index and middle fingers of one hand to press lightly over the imprinted flesh as she lifts her chin.

Lub-dub, lub-dub, lub-dub.

The rhythmic beating of her heart can be felt beneath her fingertips as she pushes slightly into the artery. Accurate, Tav notes, a shiver running down her spine. She makes quick adjustments to the scarf and grabs her hat off the edge of her bed, placing it atop her head. 

Returning to the mirror, Tav smiles approvingly at her reflection as she gives herself a final glance over. The dress is loose enough that it hides the new softness of her body, something she's thankful for. Curiously, she places her hands over her stomach, pushing the fabric of the dress down and under the small swell of her lower abdomen. A pleased laugh escapes her lips while admiring the sight.

Tav turns her body from side to side, tracing the movement with her eyes. Her breasts now fill the top of the garment. The deep plunge of the dress’s neckline displays her new cleavage in a flattering manner. Feeling suddenly bare, Tav unwraps the scarf from around her neck, repositioning it lays across her chest like a bandana. Better. A bit more modest.

The satisfaction doesn’t last very long as she thinks of Shadowheart. How can she tell her? Will she tell her? While Shadowheart has never been anything but supportive, Tav worries how she may respond to news of her pregnancy. Tav is not ready for the backlash and potential lecture her best friend would give her, hearing Shadowheart's scolding voice echo within her mind. 

You cried over him for months! Tav envisions clearly, sour facial expressions and all. How many times did you come to me distraught in the middle of the night? Only to end up like this?

If the conversation doesn’t occur naturally, Tav decides on not discussing it. Not yet.

Swallowing past the sudden lump in her throat, Tav grabs her satchel from behind her main door, throwing it over her shoulder and across her chest. She inspects the contents quickly to ensure everything is present. Slipping her feet into brown sandals, she makes her way down the stairs to face the day ahead.

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

The morning is spent strolling around the park not far from her apartment. Tav recalls an altercation with Bhaal’s followers in this very park so many months ago. Today though, people are enjoying the sun and the company of one another. Lovers lay out on the grass, hands interlaced as they speak freely of their devotion to one another. A book club gathers in the middle of the park to discuss their latest obsession. Tav overhears bits and pieces of mixed conversations, finding comfort in the fact that life is slowly returning to normal for the citizens of Baldur's Gate.

The midmorning quickly slips into afternoon, and Tav begins her trek over toward the Elfsong to meet with Shadowheart. A few people nod in recognition as she passes by. “That's our hero!” they shout. “The savior of the city!” Tav smiles and bows graciously toward them, never quite comfortable with everyone suddenly knowing of her existence. Still, she is thankful for their praise and support.

Upon entering the Elfsong, Tav scans the tavern and quickly finds Shadowheart seated at a booth along the wall. Their eyes meet, Shadowheart waving her over with a warm smile on her face. “There you are!” she exclaims as Tav draws closer. “My goodness, I feel as if it's been ages!” The two women exchange a quick embrace, planting chaste kisses upon eachother's cheek.

“Good to see you again, Shadowheart,” Tav says as she settles into the booth. She removes her hat and scarf, placing both items on the cushion to her left.

Shadowheart soon joins her, taking a sip from her glass of wine. “Shall I ask for another glass?” she proposes, nodding to hers. “We could just order a bottle,” she quickly adds with a smirk.

“Oh, no, I'm quite fine,” Tav declines, a sharp twist in her abdomen forms at the thought. “Truth be told, I haven't had the best stomach, as of late.” Bile begins to rise in the back of her throat as a quick wave of nausea passes over her. She quickly swallows it back down.

Taking another sip from her glass, Shadowheart cocks her head to the side. “Truly? Why haven't you been to see me yet?”

“Not to worry,” waving a hand in reassurance. “I've been to a healer. All is well,” Tav replies with a liar’s smile.

All is not well. None of this is well.

Fortunately, Shadowheart takes the bait and quickly switches subjects. Waiting for service, they begin a pleasant conversation about resettling back into their lives. They speak of their new jobs and all other mundane activities of day-to-day life, sharing a few laughs between remarks as they pursue the menus in front of them.

The waitress takes their orders – Shadowheart keeps it light, ordering salad with grilled chicken; Tav orders a rare steak with potatoes and a side of vegetables. “Rare?” Shadowheart comments as soon as the waitress is out of earshot. “You hate all meat, unless it’s well done.”

She's right. Any hint of pink in Tav’s portion would go right back into the fire. “I-I've been trying new things lately,” Tav explains, rubbing her neck coyly. The cravings only seem to grow as the days pass, and she briefly wonders if it's a consequence of having a half-vampiric pregnancy.

Shadowheart raises a brow again, but fortunately does not pry further. The women then delve into a discussion regarding their old companions as they wait for their meals. Tav talks of her efforts to bolster the city watch with Wyll, now the Duke after his father's unfortunate death. Shadowheart speaks of Gale, who she notes has since opened a school of wizardry back in Waterdeep. Neither has heard much regarding the others, though they agree that they're most likely doing well.

Shadowheart wastes little time once their meals arrive, forking salad into her mouth. “So, have you heard from Astarion at all?” she asks casually after swallowing.

A shudder passes over Tav as she begins slicing into her steak. “No,” she feigns with eyes cast downward, “I-I have not.”

Gesturing toward Tav with her fork as she chews, Shadowheart swallows. “I read something interesting in the Gazette a few days ago,” she suggests.

“About him?” Tav questions, bringing a potato wedge to her mouth.

Shadowheart shakes her head in disapproval around a sip of wine. “Not in particular,” she clarifies. “They don't name him explicitly, though it made me think of him.”

Silence befalls the table as Tav awaits her companion to continue. She doesn't trust her voice enough at this point to offer more to their conversation now that Astarion is the topic at hand. Playing idly with the vegetables on her plate, she chooses a small piece of broccoli to bring up to her mouth. The heavy pull of dread is beginning to creep in, her chest tightening.

“They… mentioned an incident that occurred in the sewers but a tenday ago,” explains Shadowheart, a sour expression befitting her face. “Some sort of deal gone wrong.”

Tav looks up to meet Shadowheart's gaze, puzzled. “How exactly does that involve him?” she inquires.

“Well, that's just the thing,” Shadowheart continues, “those first on the scene mentioned five victims in total, all young males.” She interrupts herself to feed another forkful of salad into her mouth, swallowing before resuming, “They were all reported as being exsanguinated, though only three had their throats slashed.”

Tav swallows hard around another piece of steak, silently savoring the rare flavor washing over her tongue as she focuses her attention on Shadowheart. “And the other two?”

Shadowheart looks sheepishly around the bar, discomfort evident. She dips her head. “Tav, I know of your history with Astarion. I don't wish to speak ill of him out of respect for you.”

Tav's fist tightens around the knife in her left hand. The tightness in her chest has traveled up to her throat. Her heart pounds rapidly as she drinks from the glass of water within her right hand. “What of the others?” Tav insists, placing the glass back down on the table with force.

Eyes falling closed, Shadowheart sighs heavily. “The other two…” she begins, voice trailing off. She pulls in a deep breath. “Well, they're reported as having two pin marks on their necks.” She gestures to Tav's throat with a soft nod of her head. “...Not unlike the scars you bear.”

A prickling heat spreads across Tav’s face. A tenday ago? she speaks within her mind. Rather close to when she'd last seen Astarion. Tav recalls again how miffed he'd been that night; impatient and direct, wasting little time coaxing her down onto the bed.

She pushes around a chunk of potato on her plate, anxiety mounting. “What makes you think it was Astarion? It could have been a kobold, or a spider, or-”

“They were gone the next day,” interrupts Shadowheart, bluntly.

Tav’s heart nearly freezes. She locks eyes with Shadowheart. “Gone? What do you mean gone?” she asks frantically, furrowing her brow.

“Gone,” Shadowheart reiterates, raising the wine glass to her lips again. “When the investigators returned the following day alongside the medical examiner, only the three with the knife wounds remained.” She pulls a long drink from the glass. “The other two were nowhere to be found. As if they'd simply gotten up and walked away.”

Tav shivers, entire body twitching with the thought. “T-that doesn't mean it's Astarion, Shadowheart. It could be-”

“Could be what? Another vampire?” suggests Shadowheart, sarcastically. “I don't think Astarion would take kindly to someone else moving into his territory.” She sighs, clicking her tongue. “I'm sorry to say it, Tav, but it sounds an awful lot like him.”

The sounds of the tavern flood Tav’s ears. Her vision narrows to a single pinpoint, the edges of her vision growing fuzzy. She leans back in her seat and closes her eyes. “We don't know that,” Tav states, trying desperately to calm the wild beating of her heart. “We don't know what happened.” She shakes her head, slowly opening her eyes. “We won't know until the case is settled.”

“Why do you still defend him?” asks Shadowheart bluntly, mouth pulling into a displeased pout. “Surely you remember how badly he hurt you. Why continue to defend him at all?”

The question echoes in her mind. Why does she defend him? The man is a monster; an abomination, as Jaheira had called his child. Tav knows not who he’s become. Small glimpses of the man he once was shine through now and again, mostly when they argue. The stubborn selfishness of him reveals itself, inevitably bleeding into raw passion once she works at him enough. It almost makes her feel at home in his arms, albeit for a few hours.

“He wouldn't, Shadowheart. It's not like him…” Tav says, quietly. She's unsure if she believes it or if she's lying in an effort to convince herself that it's true. She's suddenly lost her appetite, pushing the plate of food away from her.

Shadowheart is quiet for some time, eyes cast down at the table. “Well,” she says, cutting through the silence, “let's hope he's as innocent as you say.”

Silence stretches across the table before the two women agree to shift the conversation elsewhere. They inevitably tie up their gathering, sharing an embrace and chaste kisses to the cheeks once again. They vow to meet the following week, and head out on their way.

Walking back toward her apartment, Tav's stomach begins to sour as she thinks over her conversation with Shadowheart. Vivid images of Astarion sinking his fangs into the necks of the alleged victims flood her mind's eye. She feels a tingling sensation over her own scars as she imagined how they must have felt. Could he have really done such a thing? The sounds of the city are almost absent from her ears as she ponders the question.

“Wait a minute,” she speaks aloud, freezing in place. Her eyes are cast down to the cobblestone street below as her heart fills with horror. Her mouth dries quickly, choking as she tries to breathe.

The last night she'd seen Astarion coincides almost exactly with the timeline of the murders within the sewers. If the report is true, then Astarion's enthusiasm that night wasn't solely due to want, necessarily. Tav dips into a small alley between two buildings, leaning against the brick wall as her knees grow weak.

No, his insistence was not due to missing her. It was attributed to blood-fueled lust, a state Tav has seen him in a number of times. She clasps a hand over her mouth as a sob suddenly racks her chest. Her whole body shakes as the horrific realization sinks deep into her bones. The puzzle aligns near perfectly as the thought continues to blossom.

Astarion had come to her bed after draining two people dry. He didn't spend time on their typical foreplay because he couldn't. Tav knows the power mortal blood has over him, and she doubts the ascension has changed that. She recalls how it all but possesses his thoughts, his feelings, and his body, enslaved by the sheer power of unbridled desire running through him.

Lurching forward, she begins to dry heave; a million thoughts race across her mind. He couldn't have done this on purpose, could he? He wouldn't. There's simply no way he would. Denial clouds her thoughts as saliva drips freely from her open mouth, gathering it together to spit upon the floor. Holding a hand to her stomach she rises, leaning her temple against the cool brick of the wall next to her. She closes her eyes, trying to calm her excitement with slow, deep breaths.

“No innocents; you have my word.”

Astarion's past promise to her rings loudly in her ears. It was from this promise their almost nightly affair to keep him well-fed began. Tav tries desperately to block out the memories of what would transpire after their sessions; how could she have not noticed? All the signs were there.

Because he didn't drink from me.

Her stomach churns again and she rubs her hand in a circular motion above her navel. Her chest burns as she chokes back tears. What to do, now? Does she wait until his next visit to confront him? When will that be? The anticipation will burn a hole through her soul, she knows. But, what other option does she have? 

A small voice wrestles from within as she wipes her mouth with the back of a hand.

…Do I go to him?

The decision is made before the logical side of her mind can argue a rational point, her feet carrying her toward the Crimson Palace. She second guesses the choice; from some place within, a voice yells for her to reconsider. 

He'll tell me the truth, surely, she argues against her doubt. 

Right?

Aware that she's potentially putting herself in a grave position, Tav cannot rest until he tells her otherwise. She needs to hear from Astarion's own mouth that he didn't murder five people only to share her bed mere hours later. She needs to hear from him that he wouldn't do this, that he still abides by his promise to her, that her blood is all he's ever known.

“Why do I care so much?” Tav questions aloud to herself, practically running now toward the monastery. She shakes her head in an attempt to clear her thoughts; he will eventually drink the blood of others. If he is to create an army of spawn as he'd so claimed after the ritual, that would be the only way to do so.

They're no longer lovers; no longer deeply acquainted. They just sleep together, and she fell pregnant as a result. 

Why does she care so much?

Before long, Tav stands before the immaculate palace. Grand mahogany doors stand proudly at the building's entrance, adorned with intricate carvings along the wood. Black metal knockers depicting the faces of gargoyles signal a way in. Tav’s hand reaches instinctively around the bell of one, pulling up.

Before she can complete the knock, the door creaks open. A faint glow from a distant light source cracks through the opening of the door and Tav releases the handle, stepping back. She freezes in place, fully expecting the door to continue opening. Yet, it halts, remaining only slightly ajar. Stale air greets her nostrils and a shiver passes through her.

Silence suddenly engulfs her, the sounds of the city falling dormant. As she surveys the area around her, Tav notes no other presence out on the street for as far as the eye can see. Her ears pick up the soft sound of someone humming, and she determines its origin lies within the palace. 

An assimon carved into the middle of the marble trim along the heavy doors catches her attention as she looks up. Tav turns her head as she studies the figure; a young woman with long hair, eyes closed and wings outstretched as she holds a lance within one hand.

The humming from within the building turns into a tune and cuts through Tav’s daydream. She shakes her head briefly, regrouping. She can turn away now and forget this entire thing. Forget that this was even a thought that crossed her mind, leave, and no one would ever know she was here.

A quick flash of Astarion’s fangs piercing into skin flits across Tav’s vision. She winces. I simply must know, she reassures herself. Drawing in a deep breath, she steps forward.

Resting the flat of her palm against the door, Tav slowly pushes it open. The old metal and wood fuss loudly as the door gives way under the force of her hand. The faint glow of the light from within now pours out, illuminating the street behind her. With some hesitation, Tav steps over the threshold, disappearing into the palace.

[rafesapologist]

the set up — rafe cameron; part five

𝘀𝘂𝗺𝗺𝗮𝗿𝘆: you've been one of the pogues since childhood, and your loyalty has always lied within your friend group, who is practically your family. when a threat by the name of rafe cameron begins to threaten the pogue's plans, they assign you to gain the trust of the dubious kook and keep an eye on what he's up to. however, now it's been six months since your friends set you up to spy on the kook prince himself, but what you didn't anticipate was to fall head over heels for the boy. your relationship had soon become inviolable shortly after your guys' first exchanges, much to your friends' dismay, and you two became practically inseperable. that was, until rafe discovers the truth.

𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴(𝘀): cussing, depictions of violence, TENSION, angst, tw: topper

author's note: hi baby loves, i've been working on some stuff for you guys in the midst of uploading this chapter. i appreciate and love all of your kind words that you have given me during this series thus far ♡ had to cut this one a lil shorter than others as you will see why at the end, but y'all are going to be FED in the next chapter. here's to chapter 5!!

You felt a massive lump in your throat, swearing to yourself that it might've killed you from suffocation if it hadn't gone away. You stood a few feet away from JJ and Pope with your back facing the direction of where the adenoidal voice was coming from behind you. You quite literally felt like a deer in the headlights while you stood there, frozen by the fear that came over you as you looked to your friends with pure panic in your eyes. You knew immediately that trouble had approached you by the irate look in JJ's sapphire colored eyes and the horror in Pope's. You felt a miniscule sense of relief when you realized that the voice adressing the three of you was not that of Rafe Cameron's. You could recognize Rafe's gruff, low-toned voice from a mile away and the one you had heard was not nearly as deep as his.

Topper.

"Y/n, what are you doing with these duds?" Topper taunted with evident intentions to rile up your friends, more specifically, JJ.

"Top," you turned around swiftly, a painfully forced smile plastered onto your face, "I ran into them while I was in line. I just stopped to say hi before I came back over." You prevaricated the loathsome Kook, putting on a euphonious tone to try and impel him by toying with his weak spot for you.

However to your dismay, Topper shook his head at you as he inched closer, "I get that, but you see, we don't really fuck with them, y/n. Especially not Rafe." The blond forewarned of the conflict that was brewing, causing your mouth to go dry and your breath to stagger. It wasn't often you were left speechless, seeing how you always seemed to have an opinion about something, but for once you were utterly tongue-tied under Topper's stare.

"I know, but they're my friends and Rafe knows tha-"

"Whats going on- Y/n? What are you doing?" A thick voice rang throughout your ears, followed by the vision of Rafe coming into your view, a sight that made your heart skip a beat.

"I ran into JJ and Pope while I was in line. I just wanted to say hi." You admitted and your articulation subdued. Heat had began rising to your flushed cheeks, only to be made worse by the scorching heat of the mid-july temperatures and Rafe's daunting glare.

You wanted to crumble into a million pieces at the sound of Rafe's hauntingly dry chuckle emerging from the depths of his throat, almost ominous. You kept your eyes glued up at him as he approached you as the beating of your heart inside your chest sped up faster than ever. It wasn't necessarily for the fact that you were scared of Rafe, but that he was unpredictable and arbitrary at times. The only ones who truly needed to be afraid in that moment was JJ and Pope, which had you on edge.

"Hey Top," Rafe motioned towards his blond acquaintance with a subtle head nod before wrapping an arm over your shoulders and pulling you into his side swiftly, "y/n and I are going to head back over to our seats. You think you got it from here?" His question alerting your attention immediately, causing you to furrow your brows at the lanky boy next to you.

"Yeah I think so, actually Kelce and Ryan are on their way." Topper flashed a small smirk in Rafe's direction, illiciting a nearly sadistic grin to form onto his face. After getting the confirmation from his friend, Rafe began to guide the two of you back over to the spot you were sat at previously, passing by the two Kooks Topper had just mentioned while on the walk back.

"Rafe, what are they doing?" You inquired wearily, shaming yourself for the way your voice cracked when trying to speak.

"They're just talking things out, y/n. Nothing to worry about." Rafe's words sounded sincere but you could tell by that familiar smug smirk on his face that he was being anything but that. You knew his attempt to soothe your nerves was merely half-hearted, not because he didn't care about you, but rather due to the fact that the talk about your fellow Pogue coevals left a sour taste in his mouth.

You kept walking in compliance with Rafe's request to remove you from the situation that was fermenting at the concession stand, but your mind was still racing at the thought of what was happening back there. You knew that if it involved Topper, or any of the Kooks for that matter, JJ and Pope would be in for it. You pondered on the reoccuring thought that those fiendish Kooks might actually end up hurting your friends, and you shivered at the thought of any of them laying a hand on the two boys.

You fought with the notion that they were up to no good for a few moments, however, you feared Rafe would catch onto where your head was at and grow frustrated with you. But nevertheless, you couldn't fight the thoughts that plagued every part of your encephalon. Therefore, just before you lost complete sight of the group of boys a few feet behind, you turned your head over your shoulder to sneak a peek at what was truly unfolding.

Once you had finally got a glimpse of what was going on, you couldn't help but scream.

"JJ! Pope!" You hollered with an unalloyed terror that captured Rafe's attention immediately.

"Shh, hey, hey, y/n?" Rafe placed his hands firmly on your shoulders, blocking your view of the altercation taking place by standing directly in front of you.

"Rafe- I, they're hurting my friends!" You pointed at the sight of both Pope and JJ lying on the ground while a trio of Kooks took turns throwing punches and kicks at their defenseless bodies. You winced as you watched Topper mercilessly send his foot right into the side of JJ's ribcage with force, causing your heart to break internally at the visual once you realized somewhere in that same area a previous bruise lingered there from JJ's dad a week before.

Rafe surveyed your piteous expression as tears began to brim in your eyes that were written over with a dolorous countenance that struck him deeply. Although it had amused him to watch his enemies in such a defenseless state, his merriment was soon erased by the way your hands began to shake and your tumefied lips trembled. He had never seen you in such a state of distress before, a vastly different version of the girl who was always giving him mordant comments and a insouciant demeanor. It began to settle within him that it really did hurt you to see your friends that way.

"Topper! That's enough." Rafe called out, bringing his friends to a fault in unison.

"But Rafe you-"

"I said cut the shit. You've made your point, now lets go." Rafe reaffirmed his position with his demand, causing the rest of the Kooks to remove themselves from your, now, battered friends as they groaned in agony. Rafe's sudden shift in demeanor left you both confused and speechless, wondering why he so suddenly had a change of heart in your friends' fate. But regardless, you were thankful there was some humanity inside of him left.

"Thank you." You whispered barely audibly as you looked up at Rafe as he sent daggers at his friends as they headed back over towards the two of you. You noticed that Rafe's rancorous impression began to soften as his eyes trailed down to meet yours. He huffed in a sense of defeat, a rather sincere appearance taking over his features. His azure eyes flickered between both of yours, looking as if he was in deep thought. You didn't dare to break eye contact with him, however, instead you kept your gaze locked onto him as you awaited his next response.

"You have no idea what you do to me." He muttered out quietly without even blinking. His declaration making your breath hitch in your throat as you stared up at him blankly, rendering yourself speechless once again.

"I don't understand." You voiced in a tremulous manner, one that you mentally cursed yourself for since you seemed so vulnerable against Rafe.

"Did you not see what I just did for you back there?" He retorted, a dry laugh escaping his rose-colored lips.

"For me?" You repeated.

"You really think I gave a shit if they hurt your little Pogue friends? I would've let them finish both of them off if it wasn't for that damn look on your face." Rafe sighed. For once, he had finally broke eye contact with you, leaving you to feel even more confused than you were before. You couldn't entirely wrap your head around why he was doing this, whether this was just some sick game to him or that seeing you so upset genuinely did bother him. Either ways, it was evident that he was uncomfortable discussing whatever it was that he was feeling in that moment, but you were curious, and desired a reason why.

"What are you talking about? I didn't make you do anything, Rafe." You attested, folding your arms in defense.

"You didn't have to," Rafe shook his head, looking down at you with pleading eyes that made goosebumps rise along your skin , "You have this thing about you, y/n. You walk around this island with this attitude that nothing can get to you, like nobody can say shit to you. But when it's just you and me, I see the way you become so fragile, like I'm gonna break you or something." His voice lowered as he closed in the proximity between your bodies, allowing you to feel the heat of his begin to warm yours.

"There's a part of you that's so naive. You take in the world with so much hope, like everything and everyone is fixable, like it's your job to fix them. I bet that's why you cling onto those Pogues of yours, cause you know they're damaged and you relate to it. You wanna fix them like you wish someone did for you." The blue-eyed boy continued, only for his presence to grow increasingly more intimidating than ever before. You picked up on how his voice deepend and his irises began to darken as he looked down on you, a hunger-filled glimmer in his eyes.

"You're wrong." You rejected his accusation although you weren't the least bit convincing. You hung your head low and refused to look up at him while his stare endlessly bored into your soul.

"You know I'm not," Rafe avowed, placing his index finger below your chin gently, forcing you to look up at him as he spoke, "you just don't want to admit it to yourself. You can lie all you want, but I see right through it."

"Even if it were true, what does it matter to you?" You scoffed, feeling a sense of defensiveness as though he was ridiculing you.

"Relax princess, I'm not judging." He chuckled lowly, "I'm saying that I see you for who you are. I mean, I get why you do it, trust me. But for once, why don't you let that wall down? Let me take care of you, instead of you taking care of everyone else for a change." His warm hands began to ghost up your forearms, trailing the places that made your ears ring.

"I don't know, I-"

"I'd make you forget about all that shit in your past," Rafe came down to whisper in your ear, his lips a mere centimeters from touching your skin, "make you feel good for once." He cooed.

You were strong. So very strong in a world filled with gawking men and empty promises. But when you saw that look on Rafe Cameron's face, looking down at you as though he was drunk off your presence, you could've swore your knees were going to buckle right there. You had never felt such an intensity before as you did under the gaze of the blue-eyed Kook, despite having plenty of experience prior to him. But he had much more conviction with his words than anyone else had ever shown you, a credence that you couldn't even deny yourself. You wanted to shove him off and do what your mind was telling you to, but your body and heart said otherwise. You froze right before him, allowing him to take you under his magnetizing spell while his fingers danced along your soft skin. You fought in desperation with your indecorous thoughts with hope that if you ignored them that they would go away, but you for unfortunately mistaken as the feeling of Rafe's touch became more persuasive than the voices in your head telling you to run.

"Can we get out of here?" You asked abruptly, your body full of heat.

"I thought you'd never ask."

taglist (if i forgot u please let me know, i'm trying to keep a list of everyone!):  @ellesalazar, @champomiel, @vadinaleme, @kys4-20, @gills-lounge, @allsmilesreally7, @sublimepenguinpeach-blog, @sp00ky-spr1te, @bibliophilewednesday, @haroldpotterson, @i-love-rafe, @ellesalazar, @calmoistorm, @abundantxadorations, @fals3-g0d

[theamityelf]

(Mini THH AU Masterlist)

When Nagito is given the student files, for beating the Final Dead Room, he puts Tiny Makoto on top of his head before he opens the binder.

"Hey, wait!" Makoto chitters, practically swimming in Nagito's tangled hair. (He uses a very sweet-smelling shampoo. Honey-like.) "Wait, Nagito, I can't see it from here!"

This was, of course, the point. Makoto being the Ultimate Hope has changed Nagito's treatment of him in a number of ways, but it hasn't changed his reluctance to share information until he's sure what it is.

"It's okay," Nagito soothes. "Just a minute."

Because Makoto has already managed to get his foot stuck, he is too busy untangling Nagito's thick, wavy locks from his left leg to quite notice the subtle change in Nagito's breathing and the haste with which he is turning through the binder until Nagito starts making odd sounds that theoretically resemble laughter.

"Nagito?" There is no response; the odd laughter continues, intermittently. Makoto has freed himself from the tangle, at this point, though he did lose a shoe in there. He makes his way to the front of Nagito's head, trying to see what's wrong, but Nagito finally notices him again and grasps immediately onto the reminder that he's not alone:

He drops the binder to the floor with a heavy thud, once again denying Makoto the chance to even glimpse what's inside, and swiftly removes Makoto from his head.

(Ever since learning of the 'Ultimate Hope' thing, he never lets Makoto stand on just one of his hands; he always cups both hands beneath him, like a papasan chair.)

"Oh, I understand now!" he exclaims, and Uh-oh, he's got that look in his eyes. "Why the Ultimate Hope was given to me. Now I understand. I understand." He repeats the words 'I understand' like they're his lifeline. His speaking rhythm is erratic, going from his usual slow, contemplative pace to something desperate, like he needs the words to leave his mouth because they disgust him.

"Nagito, what happened? What did the binder say?"

It's unclear whether he even hears him. "You should...hate me, you know. You should have hated me as much as I loved you. You should be repulsed to be held by me. I'm so filthy...I understand, I understand. If your goodness allows you to tolerate me, think what might have happened..."

"You're not making sense. Why would I hate you? You're my friend!"

"Don't say that."

"You are! Nagito, please just tell me what you read! You might have misunderstood it or something!"

Nagito violently shakes his head. (Makoto sees his shoe go flying across the room, but that's the least of his concerns right now.) Then he shuts his eyes and takes some deep breaths. When he opens them again, he has...a smile on his face. "I'm sorry. My self-indulgent reaction has alarmed you," he says. His head slowly dips to the side, his expression slackening. "I'd ask you to pardon my theatrics, but you've already pardoned far too much. Let's see..." He starts to semi-casually search the room.

"What's going on?"

"I think I'll explain it when we're back at the cabin. Okay?"

Makoto frowns, half-willing to accept the delay, but... "You seemed really upset."

"I had no right to be. Ah!" With a satisfied look, he opens some kind of cabinet. Makoto can't see what's inside, from the position he's in. "Perfect. Now, if this place is as well-stocked as I hope, I can wrap you in some kevlar and put you in my pocket."

"But what about the investigation?!"

"I'll get around to that. After all, we know better than to believe that the others will figure everything out on their own."

"Huh?" Makoto is stunned by the sheer reproach in Nagito's voice when he speaks those words. He's never heard anything like that from him before, least of all towards his classmates.

At the sound of Makoto's surprise, Nagito's gaze fastens on him again, instead of whatever is in that cabinet, and a wistful smile softens his face. His thumb caresses Makoto's cheek adoringly, almost involuntarily, it seems. (It almost reminds Makoto of Mikan, and how she would handle Taka. And thinking of Mikan reminds him of exactly how helpless it is to be this small.)

"Don't worry," Nagito says. "Ah, I know trash like me has no business giving you any command, but...what I mean to say is, I will ensure you don't have to worry. I will ensure it, with everything I have. If I can protect you...perhaps my worthless life has value. No, that's putting it strongly. It has use."

"...Seriously, what happened?!"

[thecordelialetters]

The Bionic and the Ballerina Pt.3

wc:1,132

Chase Davenport x fem!reader

And then I go and spoil it all by saying somethin' stupid like, "I love you"

Pt1 Pt2 Pt3 Pt4

Thankfully the week had passed and with the help of Chase, you were able to ace your history test.

Your friendship with Bree was going smoothly. When you had time the two of you would gossip about others, talk about boys, or the latest episode of Vampire Diaries. Your Saturday morning was bleak, your older brother who had become your guardian, was covering a coworker's shift, leaving you alone in the tiny apartment you shared. A heavy sigh left your lips as you sipped on a cup of jasmine tea. Buzz buzz...

Your phone screen lit up with a picture of Chase. His contact image was a photo of the two of you during lunch when you had accidentally matched colors. His smile matched yours as both of you faced the camera. Seeing his arm around you in the photo brought a familiar heat to your core. The message read, "Tasha and Davenport are heading out, want to come over?" Excitedly you changed out of your pajamas leaving the house in a pink skirt and white blouse. With no time to do your hair, you clipped it up leaving a few strands in your face.

Chase jolted at the sound of the doorbell and hurried to open it. The moment his eyes fell on you, a breath caught in his throat. You looked... different—your hair swept up, framing your face in a way that softened your features, lending you an air of delicate elegance.

As you stepped past him and into the room, his gaze dropped to your blouse. Resting just above your chest, a gold, heart-shaped locket gleamed, rising and falling with the subtle rhythm of your breath. The gentle rise and fall seemed to command his attention, while the sweet fragrance of your perfume wrapped around him, dizzying in its allure.

"You look beautiful," he whispered, the words escaping him in a hushed, almost reverent tone, as though the sight of you demanded nothing less.

You took a seat on the couch as Davenport and Tasha came in carrying their luggage. "This is so exciting! I've never been to Australia before!" You stood back up to greet them, "You're going to love it! The hiking and beaches are to die for." Another voice from the door spoke up, "Maybe you'll like it so much you won't come back!"

Tasha rolled her eyes at the AI before continuing, "Honey do you have the plane tickets?" "Plane tickets? We are taking my fully automated private jet." He grinned. You poked Chase's side, "Oh lala fancy."

"Leo this is your chance to prove you're responsible enough to stay home without us." Leo looked baffled and pointed to the siblings, "me what about them?"

Davenport looked at you cautiously, "They're responsible enough...you on the other hand were designed to break things." He eyed Leo down. Leo pushed the couple out the door, "Don't worry it'll be fine enjoy your trip!"

The minute they left Adam and Bree shouted "Woo party!" and left to do their own plans, leaving you and Chase...and Leo. Chase side-eyed Leo as if saying, "How about you beat it so I can hang out with the girl I like." It appeared Leo wasn't as receptive and stayed in place. The three of you sat on the couch in painful silence before Leo decided to get up and play with his toys/action figures, leaving you, Chase, and a large gap between the two. You turned to Chase, "I know you and your family are coming to see my show next week, but would you like to see what I've been practicing so far?" He nodded eagerly. You stood up and played the music for your solo on your phone. Deep breaths in. Deep breaths out. In. Out.

Ballet was more than movement; it was your escape, your body bending and stretching in ways that felt both impossible and freeing, guided not by thought but by the rhythm that pulsed through the music. The Rose Adagio—your long-awaited solo—was your moment to demonstrate the intimate conversation between body and melody.

Chase’s gaze never wavered. Every spin, every leap you made seemed to pull him deeper into your world, as if he, too, was part of the dance. His eyes followed you with an intensity that felt like a silent partner, mirroring your every step. Each graceful leap was weightless, landing so softly it was as if the air itself caught you. As the music swelled, you moved with a passionate fluidity, your skirt sweeping through the air like petals caught in a gentle breeze. The symphony crescendoed, and even from across the room, you could feel him sway with the rising tide of emotion in your dance as if the music had tethered him to you.

You stopped breathing slightly harder, "Well um...what did you think?" nervously shuffling your hands together. Chase snapped out of his reverie and took one step before playing his arms around your lefts and lifting you up, spinning you around. "That was the most amazing dance I've ever seen, the way you move was like a swan descending into the water, it was like... it was like the feeling of the first autumn breeze." He rambled on with many beautiful comparisons but you were too busy staring into his eyes. Overcome with happiness, you grabbed his face and softly planted your lips on his.

Chase paused before leaning in, one hand on your waist the other holding your jaw. This was no kiss of lust but one of appreciation for each other. His heart thumped against his chest, deeper and deeper.

The smell of his natural cologne invaded your senses, his lips pressed against yours, your noses brushing up occasionally. Your hand grabbed his hard muscle the other lightly resting on his stomach. You sunk in his embrace, letting his lips brush against yours before interlocking again. Your hand moved up and down his waist feeling the heat of his skin. Your thumb mindlessly toying with his waistband. The two of you broke apart immediately letting the forgotten air fill your lungs. The phantom feeling of the kiss lingered as you took sight of his flushed face.

"I love you." He blurted out.

Your eyes widened. He stammered, "I mean no I don't, I mean I like you but we also just met, and I love you?" You stepped back, "I'm sorry Chase look I really like you but..." You stopped not knowing what to say back. It wasn't that you DIDN'T love him, but rather you didn't know what love was. This wasn't your first rodeo with a boy, but your previous relationship was nothing like this one. The first boy you ever "went out" with was immature and only liked you for your body. Rather than waiting for you to finish, Chase turned around and ran. You stood there not knowing what to do. It would be weird to run after him in his own house. You packed up your stuff and left, you'd try to talk to him tomorrow.

Taglist: @mel-vaz

[mooooonnnzz]

i saw that ur requests are open and I JUST NEED SOME KIRI FICS OR I WILL DIE so i was wondering if u could write something about her x f!na'vi!reader, where they're childhood best friends but the reader confesses that she likes her but kiri is in denial with her own feelings and then some other na'vi start to show interest in the reader and kiri gets all jealous and realize that, in fact, she's in love with her? idk if this make sense english is not my first language sorry </3

I won't say (I'm in love) // Kiri x Fem!Navi!Reader

❀ You confess to Kiri how you feel and she freaks out

♡ Content: angst/comfort fic <3 kiri is in DENIALLLL!! lo’ak and neteyam are her therapist (run kiri) THIS IS PROOFREADD YAYY

♡ Word Count: it’s 1k BUT ROUNDED UP it’s 2k LMFAO

♡ Quick Note: FIRST KIRI REQUEST AHHHHHH i literally saw your request and immediately started writing AND NEVER STOPPED ALTHOUGH, i changed up it up a little bit instead of kiri getting jealous. neteyam and lo'ak somewhat help her out to realize her feelings for reader I HOPE THAT'S OKAY i was struggling on the jealousy part and i got the idea of neteyam and lo'ak helping her so I RAN WITH IT BUT HERES UR LONG AWAITED KIRI FIC had fun writing it ALSO REQUEST R STILL OPEN (still would love to see sum lo'ak and kiri fics CUZ THERES NOT ENOUGH OF THEM, but don't be shy to send a request for neteyam also) ANYWAYS ON W THE FIC

You smiled, looking down on the large faint path that you and Kiri engraved in the dirt when you and her were little. It was done so neither of you would get lost on your way to your hideout. The place where you and her could forget about all your worries and enjoy each other’s company without any disturbances. You’ve followed the trail so many times that getting lost is the least of your worries. You could close your eyes right here and follow the path with no issue. While walking, you came across a tall familiar tree. You smiled upon seeing the old tree, countless memories were made on it. For instance, when you and Kiri were younger, you and her would always climb up the tree and just hang upside down, talking about whatever came into your childish minds. You still do it with Kiri from time to time, but not as much as you two did when you were little. This also was where you uncovered the brewing feelings for Kiri that have been sitting dormant inside you. She was resting her back on the tree, the wind fluttered through her hair.

Her eyes were closed and there was a wispy smile on her face. She looked so at peace, so calm that you just stood there–admiring your best friend. She held so much beauty and grace, you were confused on how you didn’t notice it before. She was just gorgeous and you knew you were falling for her when she grabbed your hand out of the blue one time, her thumb unknowingly caressing your hand. You were internally freaking out over the small action, heart practically beating out of your chest and your stomach was filled with butterflies. You couldn’t even focus on what Kiri was saying to you because your attention was stuck on how you and Kiri’s hands slotted perfectly together. Almost like your hand was made to hold hers. Your crush on her had grown stronger from there on. Now, you couldn’t even look at Kiri without having your heart run a whole marathon. You tried not being too obvious with your feelings but even Lo’ak had noticed your not so subtle crush on her. Giving one last look at the tree, you parted ways and continued following the now faint path. You were drawing close to the flower field where Kiri would rest. Your stomach began to twist into knots from the growing anxiety. You were going to confess to her and tell her how you feel. You could only hope she felt the same way about you. 

Kiri was laying in the middle of the grassy field, the woodspirits floating above her. Some floated down and laid on her limbs, swaying softly with the wind. Kiri looked so peaceful, which was a rare sight to see. She had told you many times before on how she feels like she doesn’t belong, how she feels out of place but whenever she connects to the world around her, when she connects to Ewya she feels like she’s one with herself, one with nature and every living being on Pandora. You never really understood what she meant, but what you did understand is that whenever she let herself loose and feel everything that was around her, from the air everyone breathes to the ground everyone steps in, she connects with it and shuts off. You never minded when she became lost in her own world because it was a free pass to stare at her and take in her beauty. You sat right next to Kiri, burning the smile that was displayed on her face to memory. How could someone look so perfect? You failed to realize her eyes fluttering open.

She shuffled around, blinking a few times before letting out a sigh. Stretching out her tired limbs, she sat up from the floor. The woodspirits that surrounded rose up from her, bidding their goodbyes by kissing Kiri on the face with their tendrils. She felt your lingering gaze on your face, looking over to you she smiled. “When did you get here?” She asked, voice thick with sleep. Your ears fluttered, face warming up. You loved hearing Kiri’s sleepy voice. “Just now, I didn’t want to disturb you so I–” 

“--You stared at me?” She had just woken up not too long ago and she’s already teasing you. “Yeah, I was staring.” You looked down in embarrassment. Kiri quietly giggled, hiding her smile behind her hand. “I wasn’t expecting you to give in so easily.” She said, sharing a few laughs to herself before placing her hand back down. Her fingers lightly brush against yours and your heart skips a beat. You suddenly remember the reason why you came all the way over here. Taking in a deep breath, you looked at Kiri. You didn’t even prepare yourself, you had no idea how you were going to do this. 

“Kiri,” Your heart pounded against your ribcage and your gut was filled with unease. Her ears twitch. Curiosity glinting in her eyes over the sudden shift in your mood. “I have something to tell you.” You say. 

She doesn't respond, but the look in her eyes is urging you on to continue. You closed your eyes and built up the remaining confidence you have left because what could go wrong? You and Kiri have been through everything together, confessing your crush on her won’t ruin what you and her have. If anything, if she doesn’t feel the same way, you and her can forget that his whole ordeal happened and move on. 

You took a deep breath and clenched your hands together. It’s now or never. 

“I like you.” 

Kiri blinked in surprise. 

“You like me?” She repeats, utterly dumbfounded with what you had just confessed to her. 

You nod your head slowly, unsure with where this is going to go. The anxiety in your gut began to rage and the growing silence isn’t helping. Kiri bites down on the inside of her cheek, shamefully looking away. “I’m sorry.” She says, her voice small and weak. “I don’t feel the same way.” 

You feel everything around you freeze. The sounds of the leaves rustling in the background became a loud static and the trees started to blur together. Tears started to form in your eyes. Even if you tried anticipating the rejection, even if you tried softening the blow by thinking of the positives. Being rejected by the person you love hurts. You don’t get the time to say anything more after that because Kiri excuses herself, and with nothing else to do. You watch as her figure becomes more than a mere blob from the tears that clouded your vision. 

ღ

“And you left her there?” Lo’ak said with an over exaggerated gasp, his hand coming to cover his agape mouth. “You’re annoying.” Kiri sighed out, pushing Lo’ak away from her. “How could I not gasp? What you did was so messed up.” Lo’ak shook his head, dropping his hand back down to his lap. “I know! I panicked.” Kiri frowned, dragging her hands down her face. She had been feeling guilty all day for leaving you alone like that. Your crestfallen face would forever be imprinted in her head. Neteyam slid right next to Kiri, wrapping his arm around her shoulder and pulling her in a side hug. Usually, Kiri would push Neteyam away, whining about how she wanted to be left alone. But right now, she doesn’t want to be left alone. Her emotions were too much for her right now that if she were to be alone, she would spiral. “Did you run away because you knew you didn’t feel the same? Or because you did feel the same, you were just afraid to admit them?” Neteyam asked. Lo’ak rose a brow at Neteyam.

“Bro, when did you become so smart?” Neteyam rolled his eyes. “I don’t know.” She truthfully said, ignoring the small dispute that happened between her brothers. She had been battling with herself with her own feelings for you. Late nights she laid in her hammock, thinking about you and how she wished you were right next to her. She began to admire your face and everything about you. She started to think about her favorite moments with you and think about how she would just stare at you and imagine how your lips would feel on hers. She would catch herself imagining a future with you and her heart would skip a beat whenever she’d notice what she was thinking about. You consumed her thoughts and that scared her. She didn’t know what to do so she built up this wall to protect herself from her feelings, but you broke down those walls when you confessed to her.

She realized that her efforts to block her love for you was futile. You felt the same way she did, she didn’t have to hide anymore. She had dreamed of this moment endlessly, where you would confess and she would finally open up about her feelings for you. She swooned over the thoughts about you two sharing a kiss, the kiss exchanging the words you and her never got to say. But there she was, sitting right in front of you. Your heart in your hands as you told her what you had been feeling for a long time. And instead reacting the way she planned to, she panicked. She was too overwhelmed by the sudden emotions she felt that she didn’t know what to do, so she fled. 

“I feel so stupid.” Kiri mumbled. Neteyam rubbed his hand up and down Kiri’s arm, a soothing action he did to her when she was younger. “You are not stupid.” Neteyam said. Kiri didn’t say anything else and wallowed in her self pity. “Why don’t you go tell her how you truly feel?” Kiri’s ears perked up. She had forgotten that she could make amends with you. Sprouting up with newfound vigor, she hugged both of her brothers. “I have not thought about that, thank you Neteyam!” And with that, Kiri took off. Her feet padded against the floor, her heart hammering in her chest. She’s going to tell you how she really feels. She went to the place she knew she’d find you. The tree that held most of you and Kiri’s precious memories. Looking up, she saw your leg dangling off one of the thick branches that sprouted from the tree. She took a deep breath and started making her way up. Hanging her hand over the branch, she pulled herself up and plopped herself right in front of you with ease. She flashed you a smile while you stared in confusion. “I want to apologize,” She says, her hands finding yours and intertwining them together. You blushed at the sudden affection.

 “I’m so sorry for leaving you alone with no explanation on why.” 

You shake your head. “It’s okay, I knew—“ 

“Wait! You didn’t let me finish.” She squeezes your hands before letting go. Her hands cupped your face, her eyes quickly shifting from your lips to your eyes. “I have been wanting to tell you this ever since I heard my Dad say it to my Mom.” You knew what she was going to say. You have heard the loving phrase slip out of Jake’s mouth one too many times, but you would have never thought you would be hearing it come out of Kiri’s mouth. 

She pulls your face closer to hers. Your breath hitches in your throat when you feel her nose brush yours. Her lips are practically touching yours and all you can hear is your loud heartbeat ringing in your ears.

 “I love you.” 

if you wanna be in my taglist comment or dm me! <3 + my requests are open!

Taglist: @writingsbybirdie @tzurue @lokisblueskin @slaypussypop-21 @niawritesbs @yoluvrz​

[olichat-reads]

No Secret

Sero Hanta x reader

Summary: casually dropping the bomb about your crush onto your classmates, bestfriend & said crush himself

(she/her) reader

A/n: another bestfriend to lovers! is anyone surprised at this point ʕ •̀ ω •́ ʔ

🌟

You were doing your homework in the common room, Sero sitting on the couch behind you, practicing new braids he learnt from his sister on your hair. Some of your classmates were lingering around too, mostly the girls that gossiping & squealing as you half listen in on their discussion.

"Hey, hey, y/n. What about you? Do you have a crush on our classmates?" Hagakure turned the spotlight to you.

"Hm~ yeah," you replied distractedly. Substitute x with 3.. bring 4 to the left..

"What really?!" The excited high pitched squeal from your pink skinned friend made you flinch.

"It must be Sero, right? Those two are practically dating!"

You felt the hands of the guy in question in your hair freeze at that. "Guys, I'm right here-"

"Ehh~ but isn't that because they're bestfriends though?"

"She must have a crush on todoroki too right? Like the rest of the female population~"

"Pft. What if she's one of those that fancies Bakugou's pretty face though? Did you know I just heard some of the first & second year girls & guys fangirl him during training!"

"Whaat- y/n doesn't look like a Bakugou simp though-"

"Its Sero."

The room falls dead silent.

"..what?"

"Its Sero. I have a crush on Sero," you said casually, not even lifting your gaze from your notebook, before trailing off, eyebrows pinched as you continued scribbling formulas onto the paper. Wait no.. 5x would be 15.. minus 32, carry to the other side..

You thought nothing of it until the feeling of every pair of eyes in the room on you made you squirm & finally look up from your work.

"What? Its not like a secret or anything?" You asked, confused at how genuinely shocked your classmates are at the news.

Another beat of silence.

"WHAT"

"WAIT REALLY-"

"Did you know about this??" Mina blurt out, eyes narrowed at Sero accusingly.

"Wh- no!" Sero all but sputters, unable to stop the heat from creeping up his neck.

"Really?" You quipped, looking away from your work again infavour of looking back at him. "I've been flirting my ass off to you, Hanta. Thats kinda rude," you teased half-heartedly before going back to your homework. One last question.

Again. Stunned silence.

You ignored it though, determined on getting your assignments done so you can get back to raising sheepies on your virtual farm.

"Well, I can't say she was subtle about it," Mina huffed out, seemingly annoyed she didn't get to play matchmaker it seems.

That is true though. You were not at all shy of showing your affection to your bestfriend. And Sero never reciprocated any less either. The two of you had grown so comfortable with casual physical affection you were practically glued together by the hip 24/7.

Leaning on each other as if the weight of your own bodies were too heavy to be supported on your own, especially after long days of training.

Burrowing your way under his arm & into his side to butt into a conversation you were late on, arms draped loosely around his ridiculously slender waist, before you'd attack him until he fell over cackling with tickles every time because he fell for it every time.

Having his arms wrapped snugly under your ribs with his chin resting on your head as you played away on your phone while you two waited in line for your weekly overpriced coffee dates.

Physical affection aside, you were each other's first choice.

For everything.

You paired up during training, having compatible quirks that allowed you to come up with combo moves that further motivate you to team up in the future.

Sero would be the first person you'd run to, text or call at any good news you receive to celebrate with, knowing he shared your happiness as it were his own & you his.

He was also the person you'd turn to on bad days you didn't feel like human interaction, coming over to his room unannounced, flopping beside him on his bed before promptly falling asleep because you felt safe by his side.

He was your bestfriend. Your home & safeplace.

Of course you loved him.

Regardless of romantic interest, before anything, he was your person. Your bestfriend.

It honestly shouldn't be surprising to anyone that you'd developed feelings for him.

"But thats such a good technique though! Be so obvious about it, to the point that its questionable," Uraraka chimed in thoughtfully. The conversation carried on, the heat slowly getting off of you, & the gentle hands in your hair resumed their work. You tuned out the chatter in favour of focusing on your last question.

Letting out a breath of relief, you leaned back between Sero's legs when you finally finish the last of your assigment. Stretching your limbs, you realized the little crowd had mostly dispersed, leaving Uraraka & Tsuyu to their own conversation on the couch at the far end.

"You done?" Sero finally spoke up since you dropped that interesting little tidbit of yours.

"Mhm," you hummed, craning your neck upwards to meet Sero's face. "Pft you're still blushing- BWAH-" you squealed out when Sero caught your face between his long fingers, lightly pinching your cheeks.

"What's with that very casual & very public confession of yours, hm?"

"It washn't a shecwet!"

"Well, I didn't know!"

"Das caushe youwe dum- wAH! AHAHA-" another tug on your cheeks had you squeaking out again before you burst out laughing when those damned fingers ran up your sides, toppling you over into his hold. Sero barely held on to his faux annoyance for a measly few seconds before he was snickering along with you.

"And when exactly were you going to tell me? I doubt you planned to break the news in front of our friends like that."

"Nah. I don't know," you smiled up at him doppily, removing his hands from your face. "Had no plans but the opportunity was just there. Had to take it. Plus, you can't be too mean if you were going to reject me."

"You thought that there's a possibility I'd reject you? And to be mean at that? Who's the dumb one now, hm?"

"Still you. AND TAKE YOUR HANDS AWAY FROM MY SIDES. TRY TICKLING ME AGAIN & I WILL FIGHT YOU, BITCH."

Sero feigned an offended sound.

"Calling me dumb and a bitch? You're lucky your little crush is mutual."

You stopped your squirming in favour of twisting wround to face your bestfriend & to look at him. Really look. Your eyes traced over before you broke out beaming at him.

"Really?" You asked quietly, smiling so wide with eyes shining so hopefully Sero would've hated himself if he answered any other way. You watched his face soften with adoration as he huffed out a little laugh.

"Yeah."

You couldn't help the stupid, dopey grin that tugged on your lips at that. "Good," you grinned up at the dumb bitch you loved so much. "No take backs."

🌟

A/n: i love the trope where their adoration for each other is so BLATANTLY obvious and they don't give a SHIT. like none of those awkwardness or denial when people tease- just straight up 'yea. its cuz i love him' and 'i love her. as simple as that.' EXCEPT IT STILL DRIVES PEOPLE INSANE BECAUSE NO ONE KNOWS WHAT KIND OF LOVE THEY MEANT and these two just lowkey act dumb while their friends lose their mind. this is becoming a drabble lmao 😂 i'll shut up now.

[meazalykov]

you smell like vanilla

selma bacha x lyon!reader

warnings: none

As I step onto the field, the familiar scent of freshly cut grass mingles with the cool crisp air of Lyon's training ground. This is where I belong, where I feel most alive. As I zip up my blue windbreaker jacket, I cover my lower face with a black ski mask so the cold air doesn’t trigger my allergies. 

As I place my ski mask over my face, I am reminded of the ritual I never skip. A spritz of vanilla-scented perfume consumed my nostrils and I remind myself of my signature perfume I put on before practices. The delicious scent wrapping me in its comforting embrace. It's a small indulgence, a reminder of myself and my home. And as I catch a whiff of the sweet fragrance, I can't help but cough one time—maybe I sprayed a little too much this morning.

Practice is grueling, demanding nothing but perfection for the upcoming champions league semifinal against PSG. Yet, amidst the drills and tactics, there's always the distraction lurking nearby. Selma Bacha, the best left-back in the world—she's a force to be reckoned with. But my heart flutters everytime I see her. It's not just her talent that captivates me; it's the way her french eyes light up when she's on the field, the passion that radiates from her every move.

And then there's her reaction to my vanilla perfume every time she's near me. It's subtle, barely noticeable to anyone else, but I see it in the way her gaze lingers a moment longer, in the way she inhales deeply when she passes by. It's a secret I guard closely, the knowledge that something as simple as a scent can stir such emotions. But Selma, she's not one to hold back.

“*sniff sniff*---hm–--délicieuse” Selma sniffs extremely close to my neck before looking me in the eyes. She smirks before walking around me to get to the other side of the pitch. I wasn't fluent in French but I had an idea on what she said, considering this isn't the first time she's done this.

Her flirtatious banter, her playful nudges – they're impossible to ignore. And though my heart races at her proximity, I fake my annoyance, masking the turmoil and gushy feelings within as I roll my eyes. It's safer this way, I tell myself, to keep my feelings hidden beneath a facade of annoyance.

“I saw that.” Ellie says as walks up to me. We both start drills on the agility ladder at the same time. My eyebrows knitted together before asking the Australian, “What do you mean?” 

“I saw that interaction between Selma and you.” 

“Its not-” 

“Don’t pretend that you didn’t like what she did.” Ellie cuts me off with a smirk as I roll my eyes again.

See, I'm not as subtle as I think. All of my teammates, especially Ellie, Lindsey, and Danielle, see through my charade with knowing glances and a teasing grin. They know the truth, I didn’t have to tell them. My poker face might’ve been decent to strangers but my eyes can’t conceal my true feelings for the French woman. My heart skips a beat whenever Selma's near, that beneath my tough exterior lies a vulnerability I dare not show.

Hours later, as the sun sets and the day draws to a close, I retreat to the comfort of my nightly routine. The warm water cascades over me in the shower with a mingling with the scent of vanilla that fills the air. I take my vanilla scented scrub and lather it over my body, making sure the dead skin goes away before I shave. My night routine is a moment of solitude, a chance to unravel the knots of each day’s events.

But even in the sanctuary of my shower, I can't escape her presence. Selma's laughter echoes in my mind, her image etched into my thoughts. As I finished shaving and started to wash myself with a Vanilla scented body wash, I hope that she will notice the scent in training tomorrow morning. 

And as I towel off and slip into bed, I can't shake the feeling that despite my best efforts, I'm falling deeper with each passing day for Selma.

The next morning after a grueling training session, Danielle corners me with a determined look in her eyes. She knows there's something I've been hiding, something I've been avoiding. However, I am the strongest on the team when it comes to hiding my feelings. With a gentle yet persistent tone, the Dutch begins her heartfelt plea.

“Danielle, not now.” I sigh, feeling drained and exhausted. But Danielle is not one to let things go, especially when it comes to relationship matters.

"Y/N, we need to talk about Selma," Danielle insists, her voice soft but unwavering. "I see the way you look at her, the way you light up when she's around. You might believe that you’re hiding your feelings very well– but you aren't. Sorry but trust me, she feels the same about you."

I'm taken aback by her words, a flicker of hope stirring within my heart. Before I can respond, Danielle continues, her words flowing freely.

"I know you're scared, Y/N. Scared of letting someone in, of being vulnerable. We all know about the shield you try to put up so you can be the “stronger person”. But love isn't a weakness; it's a strength you know?? And Selma, she's worth the risk. She won’t tell you how she feels about you unless you give her the green light."

My defenses begin to crumble, the weight of my emotions threatening to overwhelm me. As much as I wanted to say it– my words choke inside of my throat. After a quick deep breath, while shaky, I met Danielle's gaze, my voice barely above a whisper.

"Danielle, you don't understand. I'm not just scared of being vulnerable. I'm scared of being in love with her. It's like... like giving someone the power to break me into a million pieces. Especially since we are on the same team, you know? Is this how you and Ellie felt before you guys were together?” 

“Yes–but we took the chance. Now we are getting married next year!” Danielle smiled. This gave me reassurance as I smiled at the shorter woman. 

Danielle's expression softens at my smile, a silent understanding passing between us. She reaches out, placing a comforting hand on my shoulder covered with the blue lyon windbreaker.

"I get it, Y/N. I really do. But sometimes, you have to do it before it's too late. Just tell Selma how you feel so you can stop stressing yourself out.” 

My heart aches with the weight of Danielle's words, the truth ringing loud and clear in my ears. And as I looked towards the goal post closest to the two of us, I knew I needed to tell Selma how I felt. If Danielle wasn’t wrong, maybe I won’t embarrass myself. 

An hour later I sit in the passenger's seat of Selma’s car, the engine idling softly as Selma sits beside me, the silence between us almost tangible. Before this, I asked her in the locker rooms if we could talk somewhere. Believing that the locker room around teammates wouldn’t have been the smartest idea, we chose to go in her black suv instead. My heart races with nerves, my palms damp against my thighs covered with my black yoga pants. This is it, the moment I've been building up to, the moment I can't avoid any longer.

Before I could start, Selma spoke up first with a laugh: “You smell very good.” 

I laughed softly before saying thank you. Remembering that i’ve purposely sprayed my vanilla perfume on before leaving the locker rooms to get here.

"Selma," I begin, my voice barely above a whisper, "um—there's something I need to tell you."

She turns towards me, her gaze soft and encouraging, a flicker of curiosity in her eyes. This look was unusual for the hyper and silly woman, "What is it, Y/N?"

I take a deep breath, gathering my courage, knowing that this is a moment that could change everything. "I... I love you, Selma. Um— I love you more than just a teammate– I love you, as a lover" I said. I could have worded that better but my nervousness got the best of me. The French woman looks at me with a smirk before processing what i’ve confessed. 

For a quick moment, the world stands still, the weight of my confession hangs in the air. And then, slowly, the smirk spreads across Selma's face again, a warmth filling her eyes.

"Y/N," she says, her voice barely above a whisper, "I love you too. I fell in love with you at the beginning of the season, which is why I didn't stop bothering you. I love you so much."

Relief floods through me, tears pricking at the corners of my eyes as she reaches for the space on the jaw below my ear. She pulled me into a kiss which warmed my heart entirely. Her plump lips felt soft against mine and I relaxed into the feeling of finally being hers, after pretending like I didn’t want to be. 

“Damn– you own vanilla lip balm too?” Selma says licking her lips, she pulls away to look at my lips before looking at my love-filled eyes again. I laughed, knowing that I did have vanilla lip balm in my vanilla collection too, “Yes I do.” I smiled. 

"je l'aime." Selma says before leaning for a kiss again.

<3

[nyarlathotep-thecrawlingchaos]

Hello unknowable horror we all love dearly! Tell me, do you have a minute to spare to talk about our lord and saviour: THE CONCEPT OF SHANKS TRYING TO BE THE WINGMAN FOR MIHAWK WHEN HE SHOWS INTEREST ON FUTURE S/O, SINCE SHANKS KNOWS THEM, TRYING TO INTRODUCE MIHAWK AND DOING A TERRIBLE, HORRIBLE JOB AT IT FOR MIHAWK'S TASTE?

Mihawk wants to more over, introduce himself in his own time and manner, gauge out this person, charm them on his own. Cue Shanks practically dragging Mihawk in front of future S/O which not only almost ends on him colliding against them face first and sending them flying, but his hat getting knocked onto covering his face in the process and them being hit with the sides of his jacket. Shanks is trying to hype up Mihawk to S/O in the most obvious way possible and Mihawk has never had a deeper motivation to cut Shanks in half without even needing to use Yoru bY THE GODS, JUST SHUT IT RED HAIR-

All the while future S/O is just staring at this man obviously pissed of at Shanks and who the red haired pirate won't even let get a proper sentence in without cutting in with an 'amazing story about Hawkeye', but joke's on Mihawk, because as Shanks' luck usually does, it works, and they're finding themselves smiling at the tall, dark swordsman

Oh dear sweet cosmic infinity, I'm getting second-hand embarrassment for Mihawk just picturing the fiasco. Poor, poor baby.

Wanted to just be subtle about it and Shanks (no doubt at least half-drunk) pulls a live-action-Usopp like "HEY HEY HEEEEY MEET MY BEST FRIEND—oh, oops—"

Also manages to spill rum everywhere, tries to assist in straightening Mihawk's hat and Mihawk just swats his hand away like a temperamental cat.

And the stories just gradually get more and more embarrassing as the situation devolves into a game of who-among-the-Red-Hairs-has-the-funniest-Mihawk-story

And future S/O is deeply amused, but has enough tact and sense to distract Shanks and his crew by ordering everyone a round of drinks

And sneak off with Mihawk while Shanks is distracted, smirking and noting the twitching in his eye and commenting, "I get the impression you're not actually best friends."

And Mihawk just:

"I am strongly considering tearing off his remaining arm and beating him to death with it."

But all in all it technically worked, since he does have future S/O alone now.....

And Shanks is never ever going to shut up about how he's now officially the World's Greatest Wingman™.

[strwberri-milk]

I read your hd of singer Kaeya and I loved it 💕💕💕

And I was wonder is you could do some of Kaeya being in love with his rival in an ice-skate competition???

I love how you write btw <3

thank you <3 i also have no frame of reference for ice skating so

Kaeya's such a tease. He's the same with you as he is everybody else - never willing to shut up and perfectly capable of pushing every single button that gets on your nerves at the same time. It's a talent, really.

The worst part is he's so amazing at skating. You can see the work he puts into it, the way he makes every turn and spin look perfectly effortless. Whenever he's practicing you can see his muscles all working together, rippling under his clothes as he sticks another landing.

It's beautiful. He's beautiful and you know that as an objective fact. So does he. He can feel the eyes staring at him, knows that he's practically a genius at what he does. He practically lives and breathes the rink, more at home under the stadium lights than he is his own lonely bedroom.

To him, it makes perfect sense that you'd be admiring him so often. He just wishes the observational, almost clinical way you watch him move wasn't just because you were trying to beat him. He wishes there was a tinge of warmth in there, not just some cold recognition of his skills and a slight nod when he looks at you.

"So, I noticed you staring at me again," he smirks as he skates up to you. You roll your eyes, sighing and crossing your arms as you try to skate away from him.

"You wish. I'm just making sure I know when to laugh when you trip."

He follows after you, gliding on the ice and circling around to face you from a safe distance.

"Oh, you wish. Don't worry - I won't be doing any falling unless it's for you," he winks, chuckling as you try to leave him behind.

"What do you want from me?" you finally ask him, diverting off to one of the walls and leaning against the ledge.

"Nothing really. I just enjoy bothering you. Is that so wrong?"

You roll your eyes again, going to practice your routine without knowing he's staring longingly at you.

Considering that you haven't clearly responded to any of his attempts to flirt with you he decides he might have to step it up a notch. He knows part of it is because he flirts a little bit with everyone, but he was hoping you would catch on the way that he did it with you was different than everybody else.

He's almost tempted to throw a judging, show you that these competitions don't matter as much to him as it might seem. However, he knows he doesn't want to do that to you and make things worse. Doing something like that would ruin your relationship forever.

So instead, he's now standing outside of the locker rooms, waiting impatiently for you to come outside with a bouquet of flowers. He assumes they're your favourite, paying attention to the ones you receive every time a competition ended. His hands nervously crinkle the plastic as he waits and waits, coming back to attention whenever he'd hear the doors open.

"Hey, Y/N, wait!"

You can barely hear him over the music in your earbuds, turning around to face Kaeya. The two of you were evenly matched, but this time you managed to win the competition between yourselves. A cocky smirk fits your face as Kaeya catches up to you, so caught up in the jubilation of beating him that you don't even notice the flowers in his hand.

"Oh? Came back to see what you're missing out on?" you tease, waving your medal in front of his face.

"Kind of," he laughs, giving you a very subtle once-over.

You were right, but not in the way you thought.

"I wanted to congratulate you on a job well done."

Kaeya thrusts the flowers toward you, seeming almost apprehensive for the first time in his life. You take them a little hesitantly, trying to hide how happy you are he seemed to figure out your favourite.

"Wow, you're being genuinely nice for once. What's it in for you?"

He can't help but admire you in the glow of the fluorescent lights, wanting to reach out and touch your face. You're more focused on smelling the bouquet, almost forgetting Kaeya was in front of you until he clears his throat.

"There is something in it for me. Dinner, with me?"

You stare at him, unsure if you understood him correctly.

"Are you just telling me your dinner plans or is there something more to it?"

"There's something more to it. I'm asking you to dinner. At least to celebrate your win?"

He can see the confusion on your face, seemingly beginning to put the dots together as you stare at him, then the flowers. A small smile graces your features and he feels his pounding heart slow down in relief.

"Fine. You're paying then, right?"

He grins, resisting the urge to grab your hand.

"Of course."

[17020]

ren kaji is perceptive. it might take him a bit sometimes, but he's got the spirit.

he's attentive. his eyes constantly linger, taking in your every move. from the way your fingers move while typing new music recommendations on his phone, to the way in which your nose crinkles when you laugh at him, he's observing the way in which you do practically… anything.

it didn't take long for kaji to know something's up.

standing in front of the mirror and taking longer than usual, a slight look of disappointment in your eyes—one that kaji doesn't miss. a look of discomfort when you're showered with compliments, and a smile that to the naked eye seems entirely genuine, accompanied with a change in your voice—the slight drop of kaji's favorite tune is immediately perceived.

time flies. way too fast for your liking.

the third and final year is coming, with summer break reaching the half-way checkpoint. kaji's lying down on his couch and you're on top of him, your head on his chest, careful to count every beat of his heart.

around 110? you can't tell, but you know he grows nervous when you're close.

you call out to him, feeling the vibrations of his chest as he hums in response. "do you think i can transfer and spend my last year in furin?"

"dunno, i'd have to ask umemiya and tsubaki" he hums, his eyes quickly narrowing as he moves his hand to entangle it in your hair. "don' think that's possible though, furin's an all-boys school."

"baby…"

he's analyzing your reaction, slowly removing his hand from your hair as you raise your head to face him.

"i'm transferring to furin, so please send me tsubaki's number so i can go through admissions."

"but you're a—"

"ren."

"what?"

"ren."

your gaze softens, and it's in that moment where everything clicks. every piece that was scattered in his mind comes together as he's seeing the full picture—the puzzle is complete.

"oh."

"yeah, oh."

"should've told me sooner, i could've helped with anything you needed" he reprimands, his hand now on your cheek. "you thought i was gonna give you shit for it?"

you avert his gaze, and that tells him everything he needs to know. his thumb softly caresses your cheek as he thinks back to all the signs, why couldn't he get the hint from way back then?

"don' have many clothes, but you can take some if you want—they're comfortable. i'll talk to tsubaki so don't worry about anything, and if anyone gives you shit, you call me."

it's not subtle at all, his attempt to be supportive. from the last few minutes he gathered that it's abundantly clear that comprehension and support is what you need, and you feel as if what he offers isn't enough. if he has to step up his game, he will.

"thanks, ren" you smile.

"'s nothing, dude."

"dude? we've been dating for a year. be fucking for real."

he softly chuckles, leaning down to place a kiss on your forehead. "sorry, prince."

note. inspired by @kissagii 's post which i love sm, this is for you!! sorry this was rushed a bit i'm sleepy.