#this isnt meant to be directed at anyone its just a random thought but like fr i see a hiccup genderbend

[saturnniidae]

Ngl what even is a genderbend like don't u mean transgender headcanon???

[quackisinnit]

Men in Black au! with Dream, George, Sapnap, Karl, Quackity, c!Technoblade, and Wilbur

Notes: this is for 900 clebration:)) THIS IS SO LONG DKSHS. also i wrote this cause i watched men in black:international the other day

Genre: fluff, romantic, they/them

Warnings: mentions of guns, bombs

Dream

when you first started working with him, he was very friendly and would teach you anything you needed to know

like where the guns are, etc

but from time to time he would be unintentionally flirty

or just make flirtatious comments (sometimes intentional)

"you look good in a suit y/n😌"

"i always wear a suit but thank you"

everytime you hugged or shaked hands after a succesful mission, his touch would always linger

like he would hug you for much longer than anticipated

it would make you flustered but you just brushed it off

soon dream made flirty comments all the time

like all the time

you both layed down on the ground and took deep breaths, that alien was terrifying. "you know, you looked good whole fighting that thing earlier."

"what?"

"nothing."

this kept on going until you (sorta) catched on to what he was doing

"clay, do you like me?" you said out of the blue. "what? no- our relationship is strictly professional and platonic."

yeah you didn't believe him

and he didn't himself

but then again, he said it himself,

he doesn't like you, right?

okay maybe a little bit

he finally confessed when he thought it the was the end for both of you

the alien threw you against the wall, roaring loudly. it ringed through your ears, causing you to yelp. the alien grabbes clay with its other hand and raised him above its mouth.

"y/n since this is the end," clay yelled, "i want you to know that i like you! a lot!"

you looked at him shocked, you opened your mouth to say something but the creature's scream of pain cut you off. your other colleagues had come to save the both of you.

you both watched as they brought the alien back to where it came from.

"so, you like me?"

"uh, yeah. i really, really do."

"good, cause i feel the same." you smile and kiss clay's cheek.

George

he would act very prim and proper

and he'd want you to act the same

he would do little things like fixing your tie, fixing your hair, etc

but on missions he would be very rowdy and make bad decisions from time to time but still calm

"y/n, let's drink with them!"

"but what if the-"

"i heard a yes, let's go."

but then the bad guys showed up

"i told you they'd come!" you said with a slightly panicky voice.

"don't worry, the alien is safe and we just need to get out of here. let me think of a plan."

and boom with george's calmness and smartness you survived😎

but you both got a warning cause you drank on the job-

anyways,

he started acting strange after a few months of working with you

for example, everytime you passed him a weapon his hand would rouch yours

and he would just blush and continue what he was doing

you wouldn't really notice tho since he was subtle with it

george finally confessed after a mission

"get yourselves cleaned up at the headquarters."

"yes ma'am." you both said synchronously. once you were both back at the headquarters, george tapped your shoulder. "uh- so i really like you, can we go on a date?"

you just looked at him, not saying a word. george started to feel more nervous, thinking he did something wrong. "it's fine if you don't want to, i understa-"

"no no no no george, i wanna go on a date with you." george just smiles and grabs your hand, caressing it.

Sapnap

as soon as you became partners, you both got really close a your personalities just matched

anyways, every mission crazy and very chaotic

sapnap cracks jokes all the time

"oh my god, is this alien pussy??"

"sapnap... I THINK SO!!"

its so fun working with him

at the start of your relationship, he made flirty comments here and there

but the longer you both knew eachother, he made flirty comments all the time, like dream

"sooooooo has anyone told you how hot you were earlier?"

"i mean- no? we literally almost got eaten alive"

"well since no one's said it, you looked pretty hot earlier"

for some reason he likes saying those comments everytime your both about to die

or when the situation is just bad

"hey you look pretty attractive right now..."

"SAPNAP SHUT UP AND GIVE ME THE GUN, WE'RE GONNA DIE??!??!?!"

"WHY ARE YOU SAYING THIS NOW SAPNAP"

but when he confessed it was during a normal time

you were both talking about a mission you had to do in a few days

and sapnap just blurted it out

"okay so we have to be in paris next week. i think we should ask-"

"i like you y/n. a lot, with my whole heart" you smiled, "i like you too." sapnap smiled and and leaned in, "can i kiss you?" you just nod and bring him closer to your chest.

Karl

people called you and karl childish and immature during work

but in reality he just made lots of jokes and you both laughed easily💀💀

missions with karl are very fun

fun but at the same time serious

like he thinks very quickly

so if your ever in danger, karl will be there to help

but after you both make jokes directed at each other

"you were the one that dropped the bomb"

"you would've died if i didn't save you🙄"

but its all light hearted and you care for each other

anyways he started to act more serious and calm around you

sometimes nervous

like after every mission you hug

and everytime you both do it you could just feel karl's heart beating so fast

"karl are you alright? you're heart is beating really fast"

"oh uh- yeah. just shocked from the mission and all"

he would also ask you if you're hurt/okay way more

"oh god y/n, are you alright?"

"yeah it's just a scratch"

"okay, if you're hurt just tell me"

he confessed while you were both undercover during a mission

you both sat in the cafe, eyeing the alien that disguised itself as a human. "psst, y/n."

"what is it?" you say, not taking your eyes off the creature. "i like you." karl says quietly. as if he was a kid whispering a secret. for the first time, you take your eyes off the alien.

you look at him, mouth agape. you smirk and chuckle, "so do i." karl smiles and starts giggling, you reciprocate this. "now let's go back to- WAIT WHERE ARE THEY?"

Quackity

chaotic but at the same time quiet duo

during missions its crazy and some times gets out of hand

but at the headquarters/office, you're both very proper and organized

its just so that you both get assigned into more missions together tbh KSHSJ

missions with him is just

*chefs kiss*

one time you were both fighting the alien and somehow he convinced them for a break?????

"HEY WAIT WAIT. i have to piss, let's take a break"

alien: "piss? break?"

"i have to pee."

and the alien just agreed!?!??????!?!

SO YOU JUST STOOD THERE, WAITING FOR HIM TO COME BACK

AND THE ALIEN JUST SAT ON THE GROUND

fortunately, he came back quickly

"okay, i'm back, let's do this😎"

in the end you both won

cause he's alex quackity, what do you expect?

soon he started to act very nervous at random occasions

like you were both just talking about a recent mission you both just done

and you complimented him on defeating the alien

"that was so cool alex!!"

and he just stands there like 🧍‍♂️ "thank you y/n"

HE'S JUST SO FLUSTERED KSJSK

and it's not like your first time complimenting him

he just started acting like this out of nowhere

he confessed while you were doing a mission

you were in the passenger's seat, holding onto dear life. "alex, slow down!" he just glances at you in disbelief. "slow down? we're gonna die if i do slow down!"

after a few turns, you reached a long road with a fiver at the end. alex looked aroud to find another road for you to go on to avoid drowning. unfortunately, there was none.

the buttons that cotrolled the car currently weren't working. so you kept on pushing them. "y/n, before we die, i wanna say something!"

"we're not gonna di- oh nevermind, what is it?" you yelled. "i like you!"

all you could do was to push the buttons more aggresively, hoping to get out alive. to your surprise, the car started to float of the ground.

once you had both reached the sky, you both started clapping and cheering. "lets go!"

"we did it y/n holy shit"

"so... you like me?"

"what? no, i didn't say that. what do you me-"

"its fine alex. i like you too"

Technoblade

he would be quiet and professional

also a little intimidating

like on your first mission he did almost all the work

and in a way you were kinda his assistant

at first you thought this was how missions worked

1 leader and 1 follower/assistant

but then you talked to your colleagues about your missions with him and they told you it was meant to be 2 partners, not leader and assistant

so you confronted techno about this

which left him a little surprised

cause he was the one supposed to confront people, not the other way around

this made him intrigued about you

so techno spent more time with you to learn more about you

which caused the both of you to get closer

when people saw this, they were really confused

cause he was so soft, caring, and nice around but around them he was cold and intimidating

but then techno started to act very flustered and nervous around you

he tried to hide it, but failed

like you would just be talking to him and he would just randomly act flustered

"okay so since he's in [street name], we should turn left to catch up." you said while holding onto the steering wheel. "uh huh..." techno just looked at you, not saying a word.

"techno? are you listening?"

"oh- uhm. yeah, sorry." he said as he opened the sunroof and got out his gun.

this kept happening so you decided to confront him about it

(the same way you first confronted him)

"techno, are you alright? everytime we're in a mission or just talking you seem really out of it"

"i'm fine, just tired."

which isnt true?? his whole brand was like staying up and still having enough energy for a mission

so you were suspicious but didnt think much of it

he confessed while you were at a diner talking about an upcoming mission

you drank some water and cleared your throat. "do you think we need a disguise?"

"uhm, i think we need to..."

"need to?" you waited for his answer. "i like you." he blurted out, looking down at the ground tp avoideye contact. all you could was smile, "i like you too techno, a lot."

technoblade looked back up to you slowly with a small smile but with a shocked expression. you cup his cheek from across the table and caress it, smiling.

Wilbur

he would be a combination of george and dream

prim, proper, and friendly

missions with him would be fun but still professional

he'd crack jokes all the time but at the same time he can finish the mission

idk why but for some reason he loves timing himself during missions

"aye y/n, we got 3 days and 7 hours! not as good as last time but still alright"

"wilbur why do you even keep track-"

anyways

all of a sudden, he started to be more messy during missions out of nowhere

like instead of having everything in control, everything would be out of place

one time you both almost let the alien escape

"wil are you alright? you've been a little off lately." he rubbed the back of his neck, "yeah, i'm fine, completely fine."

you were worried so from time to time you would ask him if he was alright

and he would always answer with the same thing

"i'm fine, y/n. don't worry about me"

or something along those lines

he confessed during an argument

"wil we could've died! we and many people could've died." wilbur paced around the room, rubbing his neck and running his hand through his hair from time to time.

"i know, i know."

"if you know then why did you do that?" you said, raising your voice. "because-"

"beacuse what wilbur? you're feeling a little tired but you're fine? wil please tell me what's goin-" you were yelling and your eyes started to become moist. "because i like you, y/n. so so much."

he cupped your face with both of his hands as his eyes began to moist as well. "i-i like you too wilbur." was all you managed to choke out. "but please be more careful. you promise?" wilbur placed his forehead on yours, "i promise."

[horansqueen]

You & Me : chapter 40

A Niall Horan fanfiction ; rated MA

Sequel to AM CONVERSATIONS

CHAPTER 1 || CHAPTER 2 || CHAPTER 3 || CHAPTER 4 || CHAPTER 5 || CHAPTER 6 || CHAPTER 7 || CHAPTER 8 || CHAPTER 9 || CHAPTER 10 || CHAPTER 11 || CHAPTER 12 || CHAPTER 13 || CHAPTER 14 || CHAPTER 15 || CHAPTER 16 || CHAPTER 17 || CHAPTER 18 || CHAPTER 19 || CHAPTER 20 || CHAPTER 21 || CHAPTER 22 || CHAPTER 23 || CHAPTER 24 || CHAPTER 25 || CHAPTER 26 || CHAPTER 27 || CHAPTER 28 || CHAPTER 29 || CHAPTER 30 || CHAPTER 31 || CHAPTER 32 || CHAPTER 33 || CHAPTER 34|| CHAPTER 35 || CHAPTER 36 || CHAPTER 37 || CHAPTER 38 || CHAPTER 39

NOTES:

-one chapter is her pov, the next is his -4.3k -im sorry, i never proofread, i hate it. -there WILL be smut. but not only smut. -this is a romance, comedy, smut story. -for the summary, check my MASTERLIST.

READ AM CONVERSATIONS AGAIN ON WATTPAD HERE

- notes: i hope this isnt too much and that youre still enjoying this story! its almost over tho, so if you have any request please send them asap! I have a few more chapters planned but I could always add a few filler chapters if you guys send me ideas. so yea, thank you!

if you want to be on the list of blogs i notify when this is updated, just message me :)

requests! : here are the requests i used. im sorry about the Julia one, they couldnt have a very big and deep talk because it was Liv’s chapter but I still wanted to add her in because i really like her :) hope its okay!

TAKE A LOOK AT THE CHARACTERS HERE

Chapter 40 : Her chapter

OLIVIA

May 7th, 2018

It was quite late but we were both packing our things in silence. I had waited last minute to do it while Niall had to wait until he was back from his concert, which resulted in us doing it together. I missed going to see him play and sing and the thought made something stir in my stomach. I couldn't believe I stopped myself from going to see him do what he loved the most to do in the entire universe just because I was scared of what some losers could write in an online article. The more I thought about it, the more I found that completely ridiculous. I was about to mention something about it when I heard Niall talk, breaking the silence.

"Oh, I totally forgot to give you that." He leaned closer to me and handed me a small box that was wrapped in pretty pink paper. I frowned but took it in my hand anyway as he shrugged. "A fan told me to give it to you. Apparently, she was really sad when we broke up."

I stared at the small box on y hand and licked my lips. I knew most of it were just rumors, but I also knew that some people believe everything they'd read online. Still, this time, I couldn't blame them since it was the truth. I quickly unwrapped it and grabbed the note first, reading it out loud.

"We thought Niall was the biggest One Direction fan in the world, but we've seen you multiple times with random One Direction merch and we thought you may enjoy this."

I frowned more but when I saw the necklace, I let out a louder laughter. It made Niall frown too and I looked up at him with a smirk, bringing my hand closer to him. Around my fingers was hanging a necklace with his face on it. It seemed to be very old merch, probably from 2011, and I saw him grimace.

"No, Liv!" he whined as I put it around my neck and I chuckled again.

"Hey, it's a gift!" I argued. "Besides, I didn't have this one. I love it."

"You're such a pain." he joked, making me laugh this time.

I didn't see it coming but he literally jumped on me and I fell on the bed with a high scream. He pinned me down and started tickling me, holding both my wrists with one hands as the fingers of the other squeezed my waist, making my body jerk.

"Noooo! Niall stop!"

I squirmed, kicking him and hitting him without really knowing or controlling what I was doing. It took him a few seconds to stop and he stared down at me with a smirk as my lips were parted. I was panting low, not even able to enjoy his body on top of mine.

"Please, let me wear the necklace." I almost begged in a low voice.

His eyes roamed on me for about a minute and finally, the left corner of his lips raised up and he nodded once before moving closer to kiss me.

I had decided to follow him in Spain even if I had no idea when I'd have to fly back to California. We still had a few episodes to film but I was hoping Niall could come with me. He only had a few concerts left before he'd be off for a few weeks and even if he had to fly to the UK at the end of the month, I was thinking he could spend almost two weeks with me. I knew all we did was live in our luggage, going from airports to airports but at the same time, we were together and it's really all that mattered to me.

His lips moving slowly against mine made my heart twist in my chest. I loved him so much, I always would and I knew it. I was starting to trust him again, so much that the tiny ball of fear that seemed to live permanently in my stomach was now gone. I had decided that I wanted to live this plenty, to not hold grudges of fears that came from our past. I wanted to move forward and I knew that we had both changed for the better.

May 8th, 2018

We woke up early to catch our flight and I put my sunglasses on because I knew I looked exhausted. They were heart shaped but were black instead of my usual pink or purple ones for the simple reason I thought it would be less obvious to the people around that I had puffy and tired eyes. I didn't mean travelling if it meant being with Niall, but that didn't mean it was it wasn't sucking up all my juice.

I didn't expect the airport to be crowded but it was, and I moved my head down, trying not to catch anyone's attention. The fans started screaming, the paps started yelling at Niall to look their way, and when one of them moved too close to us, I felt my heart jump in my chest and without thinking, I grabbed Niall's hand. I realized my mistake and quickly let go of it only to feel his fingers tighten around mine. I could swear the flashes became even more intense right after and I glanced at Niall, licking my lips as I heard similar questions being yelled around us.

"Are you two back together?"

"Did you cheat on Dylan and Heidi together?"

"Are all the rumors true?"

We both held each other's hand tighter at the sound of all these questions being thrown at us and we kept walking as they followed us. I could feel my heart beat so hard in my chest that I felt like it was about to escape. I swallowed hard trying to relax a bit as I kept glancing at my boyfriend.

"Does that mean we're official?" Niall asked me, squeezing my fingers even more after he stopped walking, and moved closer to make sure I was the only one who heard.

I turned his way and licked my lips, trying to ignore the flashes and the sounds of the cameras. I was not used to that much attention, or at least, not as intense as it was being at that moment, but even if it was a bit intimidating, I was not scared.

"Do you want us to be?"

His gaze moved on my face as he studied me before sending me a fond smile. "Yes, I do."

I sent him a gentle smile that turned into a very big one. "We're official then."

"Fuck yes." he whispered, making me chuckle.

He pulled on my hand and we started walking again but as we were about to pass the gate, he quickly and roughly moved our hands up to show our intertwined fingers and it surprised me so much I felt my heart skip a few beats.

"FUCK YES!" he repeated in a yell, making me burst into laughter this time.

If I wasn't sure Niall loved me, I definitely was now. The fact that he literally told the world we were together proved much more than anyone could believe. I knew he was private, and so was I. I also knew he didn't like his private life to be in the spotlight, or talked about, or known, and him showing everyone, fans and paps included, that we were an item by throwing our hands up just showed me how committed he was. People would talk about us and the wrong things we did to Dylan and Heidi, people would definitely criticize us as individuals but also as a couple and I knew that for a while, people would stop talking about his music and my tv show only to blab shit about our love, but he thought it was still worth it and even if I was a bit surprised, it touched me more than I thought it would. And just like that, the blinded trust I had for Niall until he broke up with me was back, and I knew that this time, it would be different.

                                                          ---

We took a nap when we arrived at the hotel and when I woke up, it was the middle of the afternoon and Niall's arm was wrapped around me as he was laying on his stomach. I ran my fingertips on his arm and reached his back, making him groan slightly. He looked so good, his eyes closed, his bottom lip a bit over his upper one in a cute pout and his hair a bit messy. It made something come alive inside me and I realized that we went through so many things to get back pretty much where we used to be. The difference was us and the way we had grown, and I knew that what we lived when we were away from each other was needed to have the relationship we had at that very moment.

I tried not to wake him up and sat up slowly and gently in bed, rubbing my eyes and yawning before grabbing my phone. I knew he didn't want me to but I searched for his name and mine in google and a bunch of pictures from the airport appeared. My lips curled more at the picture of us walking away while Niall held our hands up together. I stared at it for a few minutes and pressed my lips together, feeling suddenly ecstatic and a bit dizzy. It was really happening. I was back with Niall and we were happy together. In all the months we were apart, I had wished for it, but I never thought it would really happen at some point.

"What are you looking at?" he mumbled low, taking me out of my thoughts. "You're smiling."

I turned to him and my excited smile turned into a fond one. His eyes were half-closed and his face was still pressed on the pillow. In fact, I was pretty sure he hadn't moved at all and looking at him made something stir in my stomach. There was nothing I loved more than waking up with him, except maybe falling asleep in his arms.

I tilted my head and let the left corner of my lips raise up before turning the screen his way. It took him a few seconds to let what he was seeing sink in and he smiled too.

"Oh look, that's us telling the world we're back together." he pointed out slowly and in a low tone, an amused smile curling his lips. "I'm sorry, I'm never that impulsive normally. But I've been waiting for that for a while." He paused and I felt his arm hold my waist tighter before he squirmed a bit and put his head on my lap. "It's okay though, because this is meant to last, so everyone may as well know now. What do ya say?"

I brought my hand to his head and ran my fingers in his hair gently, making his eyes flutter. "I agree." I whispered, making him smile more.

"We're gonna get married and have a few kids. And dogs, too. I love dogs."

This time, I chuckled and licked my lips. He had mentioned marriage a few times in the past weeks and I loved it. He used to be so scared of commitment and the future and now he was literally planning it for us.

"You know what we should do now?" he asked, making me shake my head. "Stay in bed all day. Order food, watch tv, and make out. Champagne and you. That sounds perfect."

I smiled widely. "Gotta celebrate the fact that we're official, now."

"Damn right."

After a few hours, we were done eating and the bottle of champagne was empty. We were still laying in bed but I had stopped following the movie and kept staring at the ceiling. What took me out of my thoughts, once again, was Niall's voice. I blinked a few times, trying to get back to my senses, and he raised his eyebrows at me.

"Mm?" I asked, making him laugh.

He stopped the movie quickly before grabbing the sheets of the bed, pulling them over our heads and once again locking us together in our safe place. I smiled at him and turned my body his way as he did the same. It was always a bit stifling to stay under the covers for a while but at the same time, it made me feel secure like nothing else did.

"How hard did that champagne hit?" he asked with a chuckle.

"Mm, i'm tipsy." I admitted, laughing too.

"Me too." he let out, his eyes roaming on my face. "You know I want to marry you for real, right? I want to promise to be yours forever. I want to literally show everyone that no one else will ever mean to me as much as you mean to me."

"I want it too. I want to be your wife. Niall I want it more than anything."

I felt my heart jump in my chest at my confession and we kept looking at each other for a few minutes in silence. He found my left hand and brought it up to his eyes level before running his thumb gently on my ring finger. I bit my bottom lip, trying to imagine what it would feel like to be his wife, and I swallowed hard, almost ashamed that I let my mind wonder so far.

"One day..." he just murmured before looking up in my eyes. "How many kids?"

"Five." I let out, making his eyebrows raise.

"Jesus Christ, do you want to kill me, woman?"

This time, I started laughing and he pulled me closer with a groan, letting his lips press against mine before pulling slightly away. I waited until he spoke again, my lips curling more and more with every passing seconds.

"You're not serious?" he just asked, making me laugh, this time.

"How many do you want?"

"Two, maybe three." he admitted before I kissed him again, sucking gently on his upper lip.

"Then two or three we'll have." I breathed out against his mouth as he held me closer.

"And we'll live in London, and keep a house in Cali, how's that?" he proposed in a murmur. "I'll bring you to Las Vegas to get married. We'll have the best honeymoon because I'll make you cum twenty times a day for a whole week."

I started laughing against his mouth and he smirked. "Where are we going for that?"

"Bali?" he suggested.

"Mm, don't tempt me." I joked as he laughed again, deepening the kiss and making me close my eyes. "What's on your mind, Horan?" I asked lower and more seriously.

"Well, how about we practice making those two-three kids now?" he offered, making me chuckle. "I really want to make love to my official girlfriend and future wife."

"Hey, I didn't say yes just yet." I joked as his lips traveled on my jaw and neck.

"But you will yea? You just accepted to be my official girlfriend so it's a good start. You'll be my wife and marry me?"

"If you want to spend your life with me, how can I say no to that?"

"That's what I thought." he just said, giving himself a swing and making me laugh even more as he got on top of me.

I spread my legs a bit as he nibbled on the skin of my neck and I groaned when I felt his hard dick press on my inner thighs. I was tired and still a bit tipsy but the way he whispered, the sound of his voice, the feeling of his body on top of mine... all of this was too good and I felt like I never had enough of him. Even after all this time, I wanted him as much as I used to, even more, probably, and the way he was all over me made me think he felt the same.

"I want to bury my cock so deep inside you right now." he whispered, bringing his mouth back on mine. "You're so fucking beautiful. I love you so much, Olivia. You made me so happy today."

I reached for his boxers and pulled them down as much as I could, his words making my heart twist and jump in my chest. I didn't think Niall could love me as much as he seemed to, I didn't know he could want to be with me to the point where he would literally hold my hand and show everyone that we were together in a crowded airport. I had no idea he was waiting for this, I didn't know that it would make him react like that to be my official boyfriend. All of this made sense, of course, but it was just hitting me that Niall really loved me as much as I loved him and that he didn't want to lose me again.

"Please Niall, just do it." I begged him in a murmur, reaching between my legs and pulling my panties aside before grabbing his cock and lining it up.

His hip movement was slow and as he pushed himself inside me, I felt my eyes roll back and a moan escaped my lips. I moved my knees up as he lied on top of me, holding himself on his elbows as he started thrusting in and out of me slowly. It felt like torture but at the same time it was so good I moved my chin up, feeling his lips leave kisses on it.

"I love you, can't believe you're my girlfriend again." he whispered, his lips brushing against my skin.

"I was always yours, Niall. I've always been yours. Since I was 6 years old. I knew I belonged to you." I replied just as low and without thinking. "I was just scared you didn't belong to me"

He pushed himself deeper inside me and it felt so good I let out an other whimper. He remained still, waiting for my eyes to open again and meet his, and I felt one of his hands slip in my hair while the other moved a lock out of my eyes.

"I belong to you." he confessed, making a shiver run across my back. "All this soulmate shit? I believe in it now. I have to."

I bit my bottom lip, making him glance at my mouth before looking back in my eyes.

"I love you. I fucking love you." I had barely finished my sentence that he was pressing his mouth against mine again, this time fucking me harder and faster.

My back arched after a few minutes and I moaned in his mouth this time, right before his thrusts became unsteady and a bit sloppy. The orgasm felt amazing and I gripped his arms as I felt his muscles tighten. I pressed my thighs on each sides of him, pushing myself against him in motion with him as he came. Nothing felt better than that post orgasm feeling with Niall on top of me. His lips found mine and he kissed me slowly but deeply for a while until we both got down of our highs and even a little bit after.

"I'm so happy you followed me here." he admitted with a smile as I tilted my head on the pillow.

"Me too." I licked my lips and raised my eyebrows. "Are you gonna follow me back to Cali in a few days?"

"Nothing will stop me from going with you. Nothing."

He rolled off of me and I pushed the covers to breathe fresh air, just realizing that I needed it. Niall grabbed my hand and I focused back on him as he stared at my fingers, making me try to suppress the smile stuck on my lips.

"Please come to my show tomorrow." he just let out, his fingers brushing gently against mine, exactly where a wedding ring would be. "We're officially together now, so we don't care who sees you or what they see."

My heart skipped a beat and I licked my lips nervously. It would be a good start but it stressed me to think that people would start judging us even more, now that we were official. I knew Niall was not going to start kissing me or anything in public but I still felt nervous.

"Okay." I let out low feeling myself tear up. I swallowed my tears but I could see my boyfriend getting emotional too and I sniffed. "I love you Niall. I don't ever want to be away from you anymore."

He brought one of his hands to my cheek and I felt the warmth of his skin against mine as he moved closer to lean his forehead against mine.

"I'm never leaving again. I promise on my life. I'm here to stay. What we have will never die, okay?"

I nodded quickly and bit my bottom lip as I felt a tear run down my cheek. I could swear he was tearing up too and I pressed my parted lips against his. "Okay."

May 9th, 2018

I hadn't realize how much I had missed watching Niall sing and play. He was always the kid who was singing, dancing, or playing guitar when we were younger, and it always brought a bunch of people around him. He seemed so untouchable, even for me, who was his best friend. Now, with the literal crowds and album selling, it was even more obvious, but a lot less scary. The fact that I knew he loved me definitely helped but watching him do what he's always loved but this time, as a living, was just breathtaking. He was breathtaking.

I chuckled when he winked at me subtly and I rolled my eyes with a smile until I felt a hand on my arm. I jumped slightly and turned again to look at Julia who was smiling widely at me. I thought I knew what she was going to say but instead, she pulled me close into a tight hug. It took me a few seconds to answer it but when I did, she jumped a few times, bringing me with her, and finally pulled away.

"I saw the video!" she said happily, her lips curled into a bit grin.

"The video?"

"Of you two at the airport!"

I felt my cheeks turn a soft shade of red as they burned a bit and cleared my throat, looking away. I knew there were pictures but I was not aware someone was filming. Come to think about it, it was not surprising, after all. I felt two strong arms wrap around my neck from behind and I smiled immediately, recognizing the touch and the perfume. It was crazy how he still affected my moods but I could also see that I influenced his, and that made our relationship so much better.

"Niall!" he let go of me to hug Julia and I smiled, taking a step away. "I'm so happy for you! I knew it would happen! I told you you had to keep hope!"

Niall's eyes found mine and his smile faltered as his embrace around his friend loosened.

"I sort of... confided in Julia." he admitted, licking his lips as mine parted. "I know you wanted me to keep the secret, but I didn't know what to do, and I felt like shit... I needed to talk to someone."

He looked at me with fear in his eyes, as if I was going to turn on my heels and leave, but I just tilted my head on the side while staring at him.

"Hey, I understand. She's one of your closest friends." I pointed out with a shrug before sending him a smile. "I talk to Louis about almost everything." I shrugged again. "Besides, I like her."

Julia smiled more and grabbed my arm, pulling me closer to them to hug both of us at the same time. I laughed and after a few seconds, she pulled away and smiled again.

"I'll wait for you guys backstage. We're going to celebrate right?" she asked as Niall and I glanced at each other, a bit unsure. "It's one of my last shows! We have to go grab a drink together!"

"Sure, we'll do that."

She left with a big grin and I turned to Niall who was smiling fondly at me. I frowned, my lips still curled, but I had to admit that the way he was looking at me made something twitch in my stomach.

"Thank you." he whispered, bending down to kiss the top of my head.

"For?"

"For wanting to get to know my friends. I know you get along great with all our childhood friends, and my cousins and all, but I've made great friends while doing this job, and you never really seemed to be interested in befriending them too, well, except for Harry, Louis and Liam.”

I shrugged a shoulder and looked away before looking back at him and raising my nose in a small grimace. "You used to hang out with many celebrities, especially when you were dating Heidi. I don't know, Niall, to me, it's a bit intimidating." I admitted. "I never felt like I fitted with them, or belonged with those famous faces. It's just weird to me."

"I'd love to present them to you. I promise they're great."

I stared at him and after a while, my lips curled again. "Sure, I'd love to meet them." I just gave in and by seeing the smile on his face, I knew it made him happy. "Let's start with Julia. I already know I love her."

Niall laughed and cupped my face, tilting my chin up before reaching for my mouth with his. "And I know I love you."

[redcreekstudios]

Red creek (Chapter 2) Blood moon. by Its0ctober

Warning: this story contains, violence, weapons, death, suicide, gore, horror aspects, and other forms of death and horror, talk of spirits religion and the underworld and things manifested in between. if not prepared do not read i wouldn't want anyone to get triggered Clark had waited on the hood of the police car next to the red truck as he saw the sheriff's truck pull up to him "Clark...for the love of god tell me it isn't some insane story about some random beast" he said as the wind blowed and clark took his glasses off "ok well whatever it was it passed the trapper line" Clark said as he looked back into the woods and to hanks truck "and whatever it is...well your going to have to see for yourself" Owen wasn't in the mood to be tricked their back and forth deputy sheriff relationship was a bit meh as Clark belived in true upholding of law and detective work Owen saw being a sheriff as a title and a name that is respected but still Clark worked harder then Owen so he didnt care much "just up the hill come on" Owen nodded as he walked with Clark up the hill to the bag with the flesh Owen cringed at the sight "jesus...what in the blazing hell" he touched the bag with his boot "and this isnt a joke?" Owen said looking to Clark in a bit of weirded nature "im sure of it i dont have a reason to..." while clark was talking owen was looking around "no one in town needs to know lets call it...suicide for now" clark looked at Owen with distraught as he gripped his fist "suicide!? listen Owen as your deputy and friend i tolerate most of your shit but this...this isnt gonna stand we need to inform the mayor" he said looking at the body bag "load it in the truck owen...ill meet you there ill call randy and hell pick up the truck" Clark said leaving owen to deal with the body and he drove back into town "red creek...home sweet home" he whispered to himself as he stared down the long road driving along, he felt like he was being watched and his engine turned off and he pulled off to the side of the road "what in the...piece of shit..." Clark got out of the vehicle and sighed, he got the feeling that he was being watched and he put his attention twords the treeline holding his hands on his hips and pinched felt the cold wind brace his face "jesus its cold" he said leaning on the car as he heard rustling in the bush and saw a person with a hood on their face blackened by the shadow and Clark was frightened a bit and pulled his gun, with heavy breathing Clark calmed down a bit "jeez fella you gave me a spook there...hey your a long ways from town need a lift?" the being tilted their head and just ran off "HEY!...WAIT!" Clark chased the being running through the woods and jumped over a fallen tree log and crawled under a redwood tree log "HEY...where-...where did you go" he said holstering his gun as he stared up and was covered in the shade of the trees and he felt like he was being watched again as a crow landed on a branch and cawed down twords Clark and he looked around more "shit lost huh?" he said putting his hand on his radio "hey Owen its Clark my car died and there is a-" his radio went static and he tapped it "damn it must've hit it or something" more crows would caw down to the Clark as he looked up in a bit of fear and it went silent as the birds watched him as a man in what looked like a old tarnished clothing and a pair of boots walked out from a tree "hey son ya lost?" the man said laughing a bit Clark jumped a bit at the sound of the man breaking the silence "hey there woah now no need to be spooked deputy" Clark let out a sigh and looked twords the man and calmed down "sorry you just gave me a scare that's all" the man nodded "well you look lost need some directions?" Clark nodded in agreement as he stood up straight "that would be great...say whats your name? and have you seen anyone with a black hood and well...yeah" the man put his finger to his chin and thought for a moment "no sir i haven't sorry but my name isn't much to worry about just take the river home...red creek right?" Clark slowly nodded "y-yeah

how'd you know?" the man smirked and put his hands on his hips "well it says it

on the badge you got there!" he said laughing "just down that way is the river...oh one more thing, things get scary after dark so make it quick" the man said before slowly walking away. Clark

had looked back to thank him but he was gone already as fast as he appeared and then the crows would dissipate flying away. Clark slowly wandered down the way he was told to then he finally made it to the river and found his way back into town but the whole way through the feeling of being watched haunted him as he walked into the bar, the sun would have been in the center of the sky by now signaling the afternoon but instead he knew it meant one thing, he was off duty for a while. Clark walked into the bar and had a seat "Heyyyy deputy how is it, what can i get ya boss?" victor gave Clark a warm welcome as Clark took his hat off running a hand through his hair "a shot glass and the bottle please" Clark said sounding tired, the sound of people laughing talking and singing along to whatever was on the jukebox was really getting to him as a lone man walked into the bar and found his way sitting only one seat away from Clark "jeez Clark you look like shit what happened ya trip and fall?" victor laughed a bit and Clark looked at him narrowing his eyes "oh well uh sorry here's your drink "the old man would look at Clark and his drink "last time i saw someone drink like you they were spooked by something" the old man said with a deep voice "and spooked by somethin they couldn't explain" he said as he looked forward, Clark scoffed a bit "mhm sure just a little chase in the woods outside town that's all" the old man put his hands on the bar "and let me guess you got lost?" Clark downed another drink and looked at the old man "yeah...no trails out there couldn't find my way back" he said sounding concerned "and did a man come out from no where and lead you home?" the old man spoke once more sort of scaring Clark "y-yes..." Clark replied timidly he was feeling a slight bit of uneasiness in his stomach "then you saw mountain man" the old man said as victor looked over "the wives tale? bah no way your full of shit" said victor as Clark looked at victor "let him speak" he said as he looked to the man "wives tale? mountain man?" asked Clark in urgency as the old man smiled "i remember the first time i heard of mountain man was when i moved into town say uh 59 or was it ah yeah 61 61 haha i was a little school boy when my uncle told me scared the daylights outta me" Clark was confused "listen just tell me about mountain man" the old man nodded as he looked to the wall of liquor and took a deep breath

[a-wanderin-whirlybird]

Sole Ender AU Its the Little Things

It's the little things that made Ryan feel safe with the Fakes. Like how Gavin and Michael always walk on his right side, never his left, so he can always see them. It's how Geoff makes sure that any Heists outdoors are occurring when it doesnt rain. It's how Jack always has an extra umbrella or Eye Patch for him. How Jeremy and Lindsay make sure to never make direct eye contact. Jeremy looks at his mouth, Lindsay watches anywhere and everywhere else.

Those little things always made Ryan feel welcome. Even after they found out about the experiments, the Lab, the Eye. But still, something felt missing, Ryan could never put his finger on it. But he felt, lost still. He didnt realize the Emptiness was caused by something so simple until one night while playing Trivial Pursuit.

"Authors last names? Fuck that! Every last bastard whose ever written a book has a weird ass last name! They could be Hilda Sasquatch or some shit!" Jeremy shouted. Jack laughed and Gavin snorted.

"Jeremy, you wrote a book." Michael reminded him.

"Well Dooley is a funny last name!" Gavin pointed out as Jeremy growled and slapped the Brit on the back of his head.

"Yeah, like Free is any better!" Jack was losing it in the background as the Lads began to bicker and wrestle. Ryan's nose scrunched as his chest tightened and the empty feeling began again.

"What's with the face Rye?" Geoff asked breaking Ryan's stare. His left eye was covered with a glittering purple and blue eye patch Gavin had made out of his Sparkles. It was a fine gift, one that Ryan treasured.

"Its, it's nothing really." Ryan insisted a bit hesitantly. Geoff shook his head.

"Suuuuuurrrre, it's really nothing." Geoff drawled sarcastically. Ryan rolled his eye.

"Your like a security camera." Ryan muttered. "You keep digging and digging."

"Yeah that's not weird at all." Geoff sighed. "But fine, I'll stop. Just remember you Can talk to us."

"I... I know Geoff." Ryan muttered as the fight before them settled. "Just. Not now?"

Geoff nodded and they all turned back to the game. Ryan hoped that he could bury that empty feeling and never touch it again.

It was just a Last Name after all.

Turns out Ryan couldnt avoid the feeling for long. It was another game night a few weeks later. Jack and Geoff were out with Gavin, so Michael, Jeremy and Lindsay insisted Ryan joined them for Mario Party.

"Right so what's got you so fucked?" Michael asked never looking away from the mini game on the screen.

"Oh elegantly put Jones." Jeremy teased. Michael knocked into Jeremy who went tumbling away and Ryan felt the hole in his chest open again.

"I dont know what you mean." Ryan said as Lindsay pressed into him.

"Bullshit you keep wincing at random! Your eye bugging you?" Lindsay asked this time. Ryan shook his head, he felt stupid he just wanted these people to stop caring so much!

"We arent going to stop caring dipshit that isnt how this works." Jeremy said. Great, Ryan thought, he said that out loud.

"Yeah! We're a crew and shit we ain't gonna not care! Somethings bugging you and we want to help!" Lindsay declared throwing her arms around Ryan and pulling him into a hug.

Ryan tensed then mumbled.

"Sorry what was that?" Michael smirked. "Cant hear you through Lindsay dude."

"I dont have a fucking last name alright? It's a small stupid thing but it drives me nuts! I feel even less human!" Ryan shouted, pushing away from Lindsay. Michael and Lindsay began to laugh.

"Dude chill. It's just a name it doesnt mean shit!" Michael wheezed.

"Yeah dude. No need to get your panties in a twist over it." Lindsay added. Ryan growled and silently rose to his feet.

"Ryan?" Jeremy started but with a Vwoop, Ryan teleported away leaving the three others behind. In a cloud of dull sparkles.

Ryan could teleport pretty far. The farthest he ever went in one go was 20 miles. But now he didnt want to go far, just hide. And what better place to hide than one of the safe houses?

It was a small apartment closer to the suburbs of Los Santos, it was nice, if small. It was usually reserved for when someone was on a solo mission and needed to lie low, which meant that Ryan was there most. So he got to decorate.

Back at the Labs he never got to make any space his own. Everything was sterile and empty. He hated to remember the open space and clean white walls and the smell of bleach and chemicals.

Which was why this space was filled with stuff. Sure it was tidy, nothing was rotten or moldy, but Ryan used every space available. If the floor didnt have a rug there was a table or chair. If the tables didn't have Flowers, TVs, knickknacks or something on it there was usually a cup of Diet Coke. It was filled to the brim with bright plants, paintings, photos you name it.

Ryan plopped down on the couch feeling stupid. Why was he so hung up on a name? He had given himself the name Ryan sure, why not a last name?

Ryan knew why, and as that thought rose up he pushed it away. He didnt want any memories of the Labs in his head right now. Now he wanted to just sleep, he wanted to feel less... less stupid and childish.

So Ryan went off to the bedroom and buried himself deep under the covers, like he used to, and blocked out the rest of the world.

Ryan was 13 again and he sat on his cot, swinging his legs absently.

"Why dont I get one?" He heard himself ask. "Why am I only a number?"

"Names are given by family to people. You have no family and you are no longer human. You are far better than that." One of the blurred figures said. The second scoffed.

"Better? It cant even run the most basic excersise without failing ten times. Its isnt anything but a waste." Ryan couldnhear the sneer in the figure's voice as pain shot through every nerve on his body. "Failure doesnt get you a name of any kind. You are a tool, and a broken one at that. Dont forget that."

Ryan woke up with a start. Turning to the clock Ryan cursed. 3 am. He wasnt going back to sleep. Again.

Getting to his feet Ryan didnt bother to change into fresh clothes. He had slept in his jeans why not just use them again? But he grabbed a jacket and went out into the night.

Mount Chilliad loomed in the distance as Ryan walked the dark streets of Los Santos. He could have teleported where he wanted to go, or even driven. But he didnt want to. Walking felt better, it gave agency, he decided where his feet went, no one else.

"Oh Thank Fuck! I've been looking everywhere for you!" Ryan jumped, ready to fight and run from the handlers. When recognition snapped his mind from bad memories.

Standing before him was Jeremy, holding a tiny wiggling bundle of fur. A cat from what Ryan could tell. Jeremy smiled nervously, but relief was evident in the smaller man's eyes.

"Look, uh. Fuck I suck at this shit. Let's go inside yeah? We are near a place I own. Come on." Jeremy ushered Ryan towards a nearby apartment building. Ryan followed wordlessly, but obediently. At the door Jeremy hopped around a little.

"Keys, keys. Uh Hey Rye mind.holding him for a sec?" Jeremy then thrust the cat into Ryan's hands who finally got a good look at the little fur ball.

They were a tiny black kitten, fuzzy and wiggling furiously. What stood out the most was that it was missing a front leg.

The door clicked as.Ryan made eye contact with the little kitten. His chest tightened and his mind whirled as he looked into the kittens little eyes. Then it looked at Ryan's jacket and started burrowing into one of the interior pockets. Ryan felt a purr resonating out of the tiny cat from in his jacket and through his ribs. His chest began to unclench and suddenly he was.aware he was inside a studio apartment.

There were art supplies everywhere. Everything from Yarn and Knitting needles, to paints and canvases to wood sculptures, and musical instruments were strewn about. Jeremy hopped around the room over to a ragged old bed, kicking off his shoes as he went.

"Well, make yourself at home. Dont mind the mess things just get thrown around alot." Jeremy said sheepishly. Ryan picked his way through the room, his eye moving around and soaking up all the little pieces. The space felt lived in not just visited like the safe houses.

"Is this a safe house?" Ryan asked as he sat down on the bed. Jeremy shook his head.

"Nah. It's my apartment. Before I joined the Fakes I lived here. Still try to come back, sometimes you just need your own place you know?" Jeremy explained. There was a tense silence for a few minutes then Jeremy spoke.

"Michael and Lindsay were being a bitch." Ryan tensed ready to run. "No please just, hear me out?"

Ryan froze, suddenly aware he had gotten up to leave. Jeremy had his arm, and the Kitten purred even louder than before. Ryan sank back onto the bed.

"Look. I dont know what your life was like before you joined us but it obviously wasnt even a little bit good. Actually it sounds like it was fucking awful." Ryan laughed dryly.

"That's putting it lightly."

"Yeah no shit. But it's not stupid to feel shit." A pause. " If not having a Last name bugs you why dont you give yourself one?"

"Its not..."

"Not that simple yeah?" Jeremy finished Ryan nodded as the kitten crawled out on Ryan's lap.

"Alright, well. Do you think you can tell me why?" Jeremy asked. Ryan thought, eye down on the kitten as the little guy curled up on his lap without a care.

"Its not the same. It belongs to a family. I cant be a family of one." Ryan insisted and Jeremy shook his head.

"Ok two things. One. Thats a load of horseshit and who ever told you that was dumb as fuck. And two. There is more to it isnt there?" Ryan stayed silent. Running his fingers through the Kitten's fur. Jeremy began to whisper. "You're human, Rye. Just cause someone says you arent doesnt make it true. I know that one."

Ryan froze he didnt expect anyone to pick up on that. The whole Not human but was always somewhere in the back of his mind, eating at him. Jeremy wrapped himself around Ryan hugging him tightly. Ryan shook as he melted into the other man's touch, a few tears spilling out.

"You know. My family abandoned me when I was a teenager. Said I was a monster just cause I kissed both guys and girls. Not exactly dubious experiments but it is dehumanizing all the same. I kept my last name though. I did it as a big old fuck you to them. They died during one of the Fake's heists. Got to watch then burn myself. But the name never connected me to them, a name connects you to who ever you want it to." Jeremy was quiet as he spoke, his voice against Ryan's skin as he pressed into Ryan's neck.

Something was bubbling in his brain, but Ryan had no idea what it was. And right now was not the time to figure that out.

A small Meow pulled the two away from one another. The little kitten was trying to climb up Ryan's jacket between the two. As it scrambled up Jeremy laughed, and Ryan felt a chuckle escape his throat. The kitten then flung itself over Ryan's shoulder, it's one front paw kneading his shoulder blade and purring up a storm.

"I forgot this little guy was here." Jeremy said through a laugh. A pause, then Jeremy smiled softly. "Ya know, I was going to take him to the shelter. Geoff won't let me keep any animals. But I think you should take him."

"You just said-" Ryan began but Jeremy shook his head.

"I'm not allowed any animals. Geoff never said anything about you keeping a pet. And hey! Now you have another family member! You can give him a first name and a Last name of your choice!" Jeremy beamed at Ryan who smiled a little.

The sun rose as the Battle Buddies walked into the penthouse. The morning news was filling the living room, telling the story of several Petstores that had been robbed of supplies in the night.

"And what a coincidence, you both have Pet stuff." Geoff hissed as he sucked back more.coffee.

"Yeah well, Ryan's got a cat now so you gotta have toys and a litterbox to you know?" Jeremy said as he dropped a giant bag of cat food next to the kitchen Island.

"I thought I said no pets!" Geoff shouted, his voice cracking.

"Yeah but only for Jeremy." Ryan pointed out. "Abd Finnieas isnt a pet. He's family."

Geoff paused, Ryan knew the gears were turning. Geoff groaned.

"Ugh! Fine! You can keep the damn cat!" Geoff hissed. "And Finnieas? The hell kind of name is that?"

"Ih his full name is Finnieas Gavallo Haywood thank you." Ryan insisted with an air of dramatics. Jeremy giggled and kept in front of Ryan who held the kitten before him.

"A poud name Haywood! Ancient and divine! Dating all the way back to 4 hours ago!" Jeremy exclaimed. Geoff laughed.

"Alright you dolts get a move on. I'm going to text Jack and let them know you two caused the morning rukus." Geoff said. Jeremy took off down towards Ryan's room, a bag of cat toys in hand. As Ryan went to follow, Geoff got up off the couch. He placed a hand on Ryan's shoulder and gave a lop sided smile.

"Haywood's a good name. You know. I picked Ramsey myself when I built this crew. Jack took Patillo at that time to." Geoff then walked away, pulling out his cellphone and typing.

Finnieas purred as Ryan took in the unspoken message.

A name may seem like a Little Thing, but it holds importance all the same. And sometimes you need to give yourself those Little Things to heal.

[toutallyahoe]

Strange

Requested By Gifted To: My dearest, sweetest, precious angels: CN and Nyan

Pairing/s: Aziraphale x [Name] x Crowley

A/N: Hello, hello, hello~

This is the project I've been whining on about losing my sanity over and I'm still not finished on it but my angel CN liked to read a not so long ass one chapter thing, so I'm dividing it into parts.

Also, a very late anniversary gift for my darls~ Our anniversary was in July 20th, so I apologize for this being so, so late.

My Jove, what have I done to deserve such angels as friends? #blessed

─────────────────

The first time the angel and the demon had met him was... to say the least, interesting... and strange...

It was a normal day for the two beings, both were on their way to go to their meeting spot in London, St. James' Park, well, the demon running a little late than the angel who was already sitting patiently by the bench and watched the ducks on the lake swam merrily and on occasions, coming closer to some people who were throwing food for them to eat.

As the angel, Aziraphale was his name, was waiting for his more demonic companion, someone had taken a seat on the other side of the bench where he sat. Of course, the white haired being had noticed and had momentarily turn to look at the person who sat, it wasn't the demonic companion he was waiting, that was a fact.

The person who had sat in the exact bench where he was was a man. And not just any man, he was human but the angel had trouble with the scent of his. It was strange but the human didn't seem to mind as he was reading a book. Aziraphale decided to look at the human, he was curious to say the least. The angel had noticed the man's [Hair color] hair brushed back with some locks ruining its neatness. His clothes was rather a bit appropriate for the weather, it was consist of a dark gray (almost mistaken as a black) slim button up dress' shirt with the contrast of the collar is perfect for casual and formal setting from its plaid pattern fabric, its sleeves rolled up till the upper of his elbow. A plain black pants and as he was about to discreetly look and see what the other male's type of shoe was, the said man had spoke.

"Good morning," the [Hair color] haired man had said as he had not even looked up from his book. Like he knew the angel was looking at him. And as for Aziraphale, flustered that he might have been caught gazing at the human, he sputtered out his own greeting. "A-ah, yes-- u-um, g-good morning," the angel had softly and embarrassedly said as he turn to look at the lake to hide furthermore embarrassment.

The white haired being felt his cheeks flushed with embarrassment, how stupid was he to look at a random man far too long? His mind had already screaming at him that it was inappropriate and not to mention, most certainly creepy. Oh, the Almighty, may she strike him already from the embarrassment he had don--

"It is, isnt?" Aziraphale was snapped from his deprecating thoughts by none other than the man he had (creepily) stared at awhile ago. The angel took a moment as he turn to look at the [Hair color] haired male who was still reading his book, pushing his glasses (that the angel now had noticed) on the bridge of his nose to not fall as he continue to read.

Finally, the angel processed what the man had said as he sputtered out a confused, "pardon?"

The [Hair color] haired man merely continue to read with his lips twitched upward. He didn't answer the angel's question which made Aziraphale even doubted he talked again after the greeting but the white haired being was confused on what he meant. "Pardon me for asking but," Aziraphale started as he looked at the man, "what did you mean?" The angel finished as he watched the [Hair color] haired man had paused on his reading to turn and look at him briefly then looked at the lake with a smile on his lips.

"I have meant what I had said, but have I said what I meant?" The man cryptically said which brought confusion to the angel. The [Hair color] haired had narrowed his eyes to look at the white haired being beside him for a brief second as a chuckle then left his lips from the odd look of distress and confusion plastered on the angel's face.

"Ah, I meant to say was; it is a rather good morning," he cleared as he looked at the ducks that passed by his sight from the lake, a soft smile on his lips. "A lovely morning if I had to say so myself," he mused as he then turn to look at his book and read again.

Aziraphale was confused. Although the [Hair color] haired man had already answered his question, it was so cryptic that he can not understand. Wanting to know what the man really meant, the angel scooted a bit closer to where the other male sat as he watched the [Hair color] haired man read. "Can you elaborate on what you had said?" The angel softly asked, not wanting to be seen demanding or rude to the odd and cryptic man.

He merely gotten a hum from the [Hair color] haired male as he ignored what he had said and read his book.

"Don't you think, it is a good morning?" The [Hair color] haired man had asked out of the blue as he looked at the confused angel, not answering the other's query. Aziraphale just now noticed he had [Eye color] eyes gleaming with amusement behind the clear lenses of the black framed glasses. The angel, not wanting to be embarrassed or come off as rude, answered him. "Well, it is a rather pleasant day..." Aziraphale softly said as he look up to see the bright blue sky with the sun shining brightly, the clouds rolling by. It was a pleasant morning, he had to say as he then looked at [Hair color] haired man who nodded at his answer.

"Yes, it is rather a good morning," he had said as he slip the small bookmark that was held by his index and middle finger to the book as he then closed it shut and placed it on his lap. "That is what I have meant on what I had said," he had said as the other nodded on his answer, he then turn to look at the angel with a smile on his lips. "Good morning," he greeted as the angel sent him a greeting and a smile aswell. "Ah, yes, good morning," Aziraphale softly said as the strange man turn to look at the lake in front them. Following his lead, the angel looked at the lake aswell and watched how the ducks play and eat whatever people had to throw at them to fed.

A calm silence had captured the two as Aziraphale was back to waiting for his companion and off with his daydreams while the still unknown man (to him) watched everything that had passed by the lake. Occasionally, there were people that had passed by from where the two had sat but none seemed to pause and take a break. It was calm, the day was, like the [Hair color] haired man had cryptically said was lovely as the sun still shone its rays, blessing everyone below it with light.

It was quiet until the [Hair color] haired man decided to break the silence again.

"Are you waiting for someone?" He had asked, out of the blue which made the angel out of his thoughts. Snapping his head to turn and look at the man beside him, Aziraphale nodded. "Ah, yes," he answered. "I am waiting for a... friend of mine," he explained as he watch the [Hair color] haired nodded at his answer.

The angel thought the man would continue on to start a conversation but he was wrong. Silence came again but this time it was rather distressing to the angel as he tapped his feet to the ground as he turn to look at what was in front of him again. Furrowed his eyebrows as he pondered why the man had asked him but didn't continue on. It was... strange and the angel was rather curious of him. With a few seconds of pondering, the angel decided to ask a question.

"What about you?" Aziraphale asked as he briefly looked at the [Hair color] haired man then back to the lake. "Are you waiting for someone aswell?" He was rather nervous. Was it to straight forward? Bloody hell, now he takes back on asking the man. He was a stranger for goodness sake Aziraphale!

He was berating himself again when the man's voice had promptly had taken him out from his thoughts.

"No," the man had said which made the white haired being look at him. "I am not waiting for anyone really. I am merely here to enjoy the morning, perhaps also looking for an..." The man had trailed off as he turn to look at the angel beside him with a smile on his lips. "-- adventure, if you will," he had finished as he look at the book he held on his lap then back onto the lake.

His words made Aziraphale feel that feeling on confusion again. Adventure? What does he mean? The angel wondered what the man really meant but that still made him nod to not be rude. Again, silence came which honestly made the angel's anxiety raise. Oh bloody hell, my Jove was he not liking this one-sided awkward silence of his and the cryptic man he sat beside.

"So, um," Aziraphale started as he tried to think of anything to start a conversation with the [Hair color] haired man. "Um... what did you meant when you said you were looking for an adventure?" Aziraphale finally thought of a topic which made the man directing the question smiled as he continued to look at the lake.

"Nothing really," he had answered to the angel's question. "I merely am bored and want something exciting to happen," he had said as he momentarily looked at the white haired being who was still staring at him, his smile still intact on his lips as Aziraphale noticed that gleam in his [Eye color] eyes. "It would be lovely if something did happen to lead for an adventure, dont you think?" The [Hair color] haired had asked to the angel as Aziraphale nodded.

"An adventure would be... nice," Aziraphale had said as watch the man looked at what is in front of them again, the angel was curious about. A hum left the [Hair color] haired man's lips as he close his eyes. A thought had slipped on his mind as he opened his eyes back to see a child pass by with her mother, he assumed, trailing behind with a smile on her lips as she chased after the little girl.

"It would be interesting if the world would go into an... apocalypse," the man had abruptly said as Aziraphale almost choke on his own saliva. "Don't you agree?" He had asked as he tilted his head to look at the white haired being who was trying to breath normally and calm his "heart". There was a gleam of something behind those [Eye color] eyes of his but the white haired being didn't seem to catch them when he was too busy trying not to choke on the air he was breathing. The [Hair color] haired man's question made the angel have a slight panic attack, as he look at the man in the eye.

"N-no! I don't agree!" The angel had disagreed without hesitation. Those words coming out like nothing as the memories of a near death experience of Armageddon, failing to save and have it destroying life and war between heaven and hell flashed through his mind as he immediately shut his eyes tight and shake his head. God, he didn't want to experience that ever again.

Opening his eyes again and looking at the man beside him who had asked that ridiculous question, he saw the man had raise a brow at him, waiting for him to continue on his answer and also from his strange actions. "I-I mean... erm... uhh," the angel began to sputter as he raise his hands and rub his temple. God, he wish the Almighty would just strike him now.

"I-It would be catastrophic a-and... and absolutely cause devastation!" He explained as he look at the man who's eyes gleamed in amusement but had nodded on his explanation. As Aziraphale tried to find the correct words to have his disagreement on the topic explaining further, he heard the man beside him hum. "Well, you do have a point," he heard the man say as he nodded with no hesitation. The angel swore the [Hair color] haired had muttered something underneath his breathe but he didn't put it in mind as he agreeded.

"Of course!" Aziraphale had said. "I-I mean... having an apocalypse would just destroy everything and leave nothing but chaos and destruction," he softly muttered as he looked at his lap. His hands curling into a fist as he remembered he and his demonic friend almost failed to save the world from its impending doom, his actions had made the [Hair color] momentarily look at the angel curiously but didn't push further on the topic. He could see how uncomfortable the white haired being was to it. It was strange but who was he to be nosy in other people's business?

"Yes, it would," the man had agreed which made Aziraphale uncurled his hands as he snap his head to look at the [Hair color] haired man, the other merely sent him a small smile when he had noticed the white haired being had looked at him. "Good morning," the man had said again.

It made the angel tilt his head in confusion. This man greeted him again? But remembering the [Hair color] haired man's cryptic words awhile ago, maybe he was stating that the morning was good? Aziraphale was bloody pondering what did he mean again when the man continued.

"I realized that I have not introduced myself yet," he had said as he look at the angel while a soft smile on his lips. Raising his hand towards the white haired being, he finally said his name. "The name's [Name] [Last name]-Hewitt, and you are?" The man, [Name], introduced as Aziraphale took his hand had gave a firm handshake. "Nice to meet you Mr. Hewitt," he had said. If Aziraphale had to be honest, the man's last name, Hewitt, was oddly familiar to him. Somewhere deep inside his mind was saying that this man beside him, the one he was shaking his hand too was... familiar. It was strange but he pushed that thought back in the back of his mind as his words had made the said man shake his head.

"No, please, just call me [Name]," the [Hair color] haired man had said which Aziraphale nodded in understandin. "Ah, alright then. Pleasure to meet you, [Name]. You may call me Aziraphale," the angel introduced himself.

[Name] seemed to be taken back when Aziraphale had told him his name. Slowly taking his hand away from the handshake, a small smile formed on his lips. "Aziraphale you say?" He muttered which the white haired being look at him in wonder on his change of demeanor but nevertheless, he nodded, albeit a bit confused though.

"Um, yes, that is my name," the angel had said which made [Name] smile more, the angel had noticed the strange gleam in his eyes behind his glasses.

Aziraphale flushed when [Name], his new acquaintance had leaned closer towards him as he hesitantly raised both of his hand in front of his chest to make a small wall between him and the human. "Umm... can you move a bit?" Aziraphale softly had said as he saw [Name] look at him for a few seconds before he went back to his place. Still had that smile plastered on his lips.

"Sorry about that," the [Hair color] haired man apologize as his eyes soften at the white haired being who was trying to calm himself down. "I just... I was just... your name..." The angel heard him softly say.

"What about it?" Aziraphale asked. He regretted his decision really as what comes next that left the [Hair color] haired man's lips made him panic.

"It reminds me of an angel's," [Name] had said as he look at Aziraphale with amusement in his eyes. "Do you believe in... in angels, Aziraphale?" He asked.

"W-what's not to believe? T-they're beings that exist along with the Almighty," Aziraphale stuttered, berating himself from giving such a dumb answer. His mind was scrambled and he did not know what to do. He was panicking. The white haired being didn't eased when he noticed the [Hair color] haired man smiled at his answer.

"Yes," [Name] had said with a gleam in his eyes. "It is true but in other religion, they do not exist..." Aziraphale heard as his breathing was becoming more erratic. Where was that demon when you need him? The angel really does get into too much trouble and he is silently praying inside his mind on where the bloody hell was his demonic friend is. Stuck in traffic?!?

"Are you an angel, Aziraphale?" [Name] had abruptly asked after a few minutes of silence had passed when he was too busy connecting the dots while the white haired being was too busy trying not to cause a scene, which made the said male freeze and start to panic when the [Hair color] haired male's words registered to his head. Aziraphale didn't dare to look on [Name]'s [Eye color] eyes and instead looked at the ground as he felt the man moved a bit closer towards him again. This caused him to panic more.

"W-why do... why d-do you think I a-am one?" Aziraphale hesitantly said as he finally looked [Name] in the eye. "I-I could maybe have really religious... parents," he tried to save himself as he cursed himself for stuttering. He heard the [Hair color] haired man hum but Aziraphale saw he was not convinced. At all.

"Maybe... but it is not common to be named with an angel's name," [Name] had said as Aziraphale shake his head. "T-that is true," he agreed but he immediately tried to justify himself again when he noticed he almost outed himself. "B-but that does not mean I can't have... one?" The angel trailed off with uncertainty in his voice.

The angel was having trouble keeping calm as the [Hair color] haired man stared at him with those [Eye color] eyes of his. It was so stran--

"Uh, hi guys," a bored voice had said that made the two males turn to look to where they heard the voice was an to the angel's relief, it was Crowley, the friend he was waiting for because he was (very) late.

Crowley, looked at his angel distress friend and then to the [Hair color] haired human, raising a brow when he had smelt something... strange. Whatever it was, the demon had shrugged it off and instead had sat between the two males, the two scooting over to create space for him to not be awkwardly touching each other. As the demon had sat he turned to look at the white haired angel as he began, "Sorry about being late," had apologized. "You know how traffic is in Queen Anne's Gate," the red haired had said and then shrugged as he then remembered that there was another person beside him.

The demon turned to look at the [Hair color] haired human, confusion in his eyes but was hidden by his sunglasses.

"And hello to you...?" He had said and trailed off, a bit confused about a human really but the demon looked at him, head to toe and hummed. This one was... interesting.

"Good morning," [Name] had said with a smile on his lips and a gleam in his eyes. Aziraphale who was beside Crowley, despite rather still panicking from awhile ago, smiled at the demon's confusion. "Um... yes, good morning to you too... I guess," the demon muttered as he looked at the [Hair color] haired man who merely continued to smile at him. It made the demon a bit... peeved. That smile...

It's bloody fake...

"It is good, isn't it?" Crowley snapped out of his thoughts as he look at the human with a raised brow. Just like Aziraphale before him, he was confused. "What?" Came put of the red head's lips which honestly made the white heard angel bit his bottom lip to not let out any chuckles leaving.

Ah, he will definitely enjoy this. Especially how the demon in the middle of him and the cryptic man he acquainted for is too easy to rile up.

The [Hair color] haired man merely hummed as he momentarily looked at the lake then back to the confused red head. "I said, "it is good, isn't it?"" He said again as he then looked at the white haired angel who was cupping his mouth to stop himself from laughing.

"Don't you agree so, Aziraphale?" [Name] had asked the angel who let out a small laugh leaving his lips. His actions had resulted into Crowley snapping in his direction and the angel fully knows the demon was glaring at him through those black colored lenses of his sunglasses, which made him bit his bottom lip to contain his laughter again as he looked at [Name].

"Yes, I do," Aziraphale had breathlessly said as a small laugh left his lips again when he saw Crowley turn to look at the [Hair color] haired man, probably glaring at him aswell.

"Ugh, can you lots just tell me what?" The demon annoyedly asked as he saw the human's lips twitched.

"Good morning," [Name] merely said which made the demon roll his snake like eyes behind the darkened lenses of his sunglasses. Hell, he was so irritated and confused right now.

"Yes, yes, good morning," Crowley had said as he look at the [Hair color] haired man in the eye. Those [Eye color] eyes was honestly quite familiar... strange. Snapping out on whatever dazed state he was in, he continued. "Now can you tell me what you meant?" The demon asked. His questions brought a smile on the angel's lips as he remembered what would be [Name]'s next words.

"I have meant what I had said... but have I said what I meant?" There it is... and now for the confused and stupefied question...

"What?"

And with that, Aziraphale laughed. Despite being confused and distressed when he had dealt it earlier, it was amusing to watch how the [Hair color] haired confused others, especially his demonic friend. The angel didn't mind the annoyed glare directed at him by the said demonic friend of his as he continued to laugh. "Honestly, just bloody tell me. It's getting really annoying," the demon grumbled when he had turn to direct his glare to the confusing and cryptic man beside him who merely smiled at him like he did nothing wrong. Which was really true, except annoying the demon.

"It is a lovely morning is what I have meant," [Name] finally cleared which made the demon beside him grumble incoherent words as he look at the lake. The [Hair color] haired turned back to look at the red head and was about to say something when he had realized...

"Ah, pardon my manners," [Name] had said as he smiled at the sunglasses wearing male. Raising his hand to the demon, he introduced himself like he did with Aziraphale who was now calm and not in the verge of a panic attack from that strange yet amusing conversation he had witnessed. "My name's [Name] [Last name]-Hewitt, but feel free to call me by my first name," the [Hair color] haired had said as Crowley looked at his hand and then grabbed it. Giving a shake as he nodded.

"Mine's Crowley, Anthony J Crowley actually but Crowley will do," he had said as he rose a brow when he saw the [Hair color] haired man's eyes gleamed.

"Interesting..." The demon heard him mutter as he then flash him another smile. The red heard hesitantly nodded his head as he felt the angel beside him freeze on what [Name] had said. Confusion, like the angel awhile ago, is what Crowley had felt as he didn't know what the man had meant. As he was about to ask, there was a ring heard among the three. The two beings looked around to find where the noise was only to see the man beside them had already fished out his phone from his pants pocket and had a small frown on his lips.

"Oh bugger, of all the times, they need me now?" [Name] softly muttered as he turn off his phone and stood up from his seat, he had then turn and sent the two beings a smile and nodded. The book still in his hand.

"Well, it was a pleasure meeting you both but I'm afraid I had to leave now," the [Hair color] haired had said as Crowley had raised a brow from what he had heard from the man ha said awhile ago but nevertheless, he nodded his head while Aziraphale, although had an... odd (and panicking) encounter with him, the angel had sent him a small smile.

"See you again, [Name]," the angel softly said. "It was a pleasure meeting you aswell," Aziraphale had added which made the demon shrug and nod. "What he said," the red head had said, getting a small chuckle from the [Hair color] haired who sent them a smile again.

"See you both soon aswell, have a good morning!" Came his good bye as he turn and started to walk away from the two beings.

Aziraphale and Crowley ahd watched that strange and cryptic man walked away until the two beings couldn't see him then. Quiet, the two were as Aziraphale turn to look at the lake while his demonic companion lingered and watched where the path the [Hair color] haired man walked away.

"He was... strange, wasn't he?" Aziraphale broke the silence as the red head demon turn to look at him and them look at the lake. A hum left his lips to show he agreeded. "Aye, he was," Crowley had said as they watched the lake where some ducks passed by from the waters.

"Do you think we will meet him again?" The angel asked as he turn to look at his demonic companion who turn and looked at him aswell. The red head shrugged as his lips formed into a tiny frown. "Who knows," Crowley had said as he recalled that cryptic man's face. "Maybe..."

[chelleaslin]

Marichat May Day 15- Found

Chatnoir bit his lip as he cleared his 5th block, with Marinette Dupin-Cheng still missing. His lip was red raw and hurt horriblely from how much he had been worring it between his teeth. In the back of his mind he knew he was going to get an ear full from everyone at his photo shoot tomorrow.

He stopped for a break on a random, flat roof top and opened the messages menu on his baton. Ladybug still hadn’t answered any of his calls, dispite being active when he send the first one, she had been inactive since then, meaning she detransformed. That was over and hour ago and he knew for a fact that it didn’t take that long for a Kwami to recharge (considering the fact that he had an extremely lazy Kwami, he had still be able to transform again 20 minutes later.)

Annoyance grew in his chest at his partners, Absence. He knew that she had her own life out of the mask but he made it very clear that this was an emergency! No Akuma was in sight but a teenage girl missing could quickly turn into an Akuma attack, it was in everyone’s best intrest to prevent it. That’s what he told Ladybug anyway, all he cared about was Marinette and if she was safe.

Lila was back at school full time and Marinette seemed to be bothered by the fact. Adrien knew that Marinette wasn’t fond of the girl after exposing her as a liar, something Adrien knew too. Unfortunately no one believed Marinette and accused her of being the liar and jealous of Lila. Adrien knew that wasn’t true, everyone had to know Marinette wasn’t a liar, she was too pure to ever lie or keep a secret.

Unfortunately Adrien choose not to speak up in her defence, no one did. Chatnoir’s eyes water as his mind recalled the absolute heartbreak on Marinettes face as she realised no one was going to stick up for her.

Chat shook his head, riding himself of those thoughts. It wasn’t worth dwelling on the past, he needed to focus and find Marinette now. He leap off the roof and continued his search for his Classmate. As he passed a street he saw Alya and Nino, walking the streets in search of their friend. He smiled down at them as he leaped passed, glad that dispite taking Lila’s side, they weren’t stupid enough to leave Marinette stranded when she needed it.

Another 15 minutes went by and Chat felt his muscles begin to tire, he spotted the Effiel tower in the distance and decided that he’ll make that his pit stop to catch his breath. He turned his direction and headed towards the tower.

As he approached the tower he saw movement on top of it. His heart rate picked up, was it an Akuma? As he got closer he made out a black head of hair and awfully familiar pigtails, Marinette.

He quickly and quietly catapulted himself onto the tower and climb the outer beams towards the top. How the fuck did Marinette get here? It takes Ladybug and himself quite some effect to get to this spot with their powers. He mind began to panic as it briefly wonders if she had been akumatised.

His mind was rested to ease as he saw her quietly huddled up alone. She was dressed exactly as he remembered her from class earlier and wasn’t sprouting any crazy powers.

“Marinette Dupin-Cheng?” He called out. The girl didn’t jump at his voice,which he found a little odd, considering she thought she was alone all they way up here, he was expecting at least as gasp of surprise. Did she hear him coming?

“Evening, Chatnoir.” She replied, voice empty as she spoke and refusing eye contact. She continued to stare over Paris an unreadable expression on her features.

“Are you okay? Your parents reported you missing and asked me to look for you.”

She was silent for a few minutes before she spoke again.

“I’m not okay but I’m managing just fine.”

Chat inspected her closer her eyes weren’t bloodshot or puffy, she didn’t have fresh or tired up tear trains on her freckled cheeks. One quick glance around them and not an Akuma in sight.

“Just because you’ve put on a brave face and there aren’t anyway Akumas coming for you yet, doesn’t mean your managing. Sounds more like your repressiong you’re emotions.”

Marinette finally looked at him, she looked a little suprised.

“Listen, do you want to talk about it? I’ve got time and you look like you could use a friend.”

Marinette bit her lip and glanced at her small handbag, her brows furrowed.

“We can turn it into a game! We can take turns. Asking each other questions, you can go first?” He exclaimed smiling, Marinette seemed to consider this before turning toward him once again, a devilish smirk on her lips.

“Who are you underneath the mask?”

Chat sputtered, he wasn’t expecting a question like that. He struggled to find a way to avoid the question, suddenly a Marinette started laughing, loudly. Chat jumped slightly looking up at the girl that had her head thrown back as she couldn’t contain her laughter. Tear gather in the far corners of her blue eyes, but Chat didn’t worry. Her whole face was glowing and his heart started to beat faster, he was glad she was starting to feel better.

“You’re face Chaton!” She gasped out, Chat blushed fiercely at the nickname. “Okay,”She breathed calming down before turning towards him, an easy smile sent his way. “Real question, what’s your favourite colour?”

“Red.” He answered without a beat. Marinette raised an eyebrow at him.

“That wouldn’t be because a certain spotted hero would it?” She giggled, as his face blushed.

“My turn.” He cleared his throat. “How did you get up here?” He geasutered around them, reminding the girl that they are on the top of the effiel tower. Marinette flushed now, she looked down at her fingers as she played with them.

“Ladybug.” She whispered, Chat almost missed what she said. He defiantly would have if it wasn’t for his sensitive hear whilst transformed. He was shocked, Ladybug had actually seen his messages? He was relieved that she helped Marinette and didn’t abandon a citizen in need. The irritation he felt for his partner earlier melting away as something new grew in its place, guilt. He shouldn’t have ever doubted her but, where was she now. He was about to ask when she cut him off.

“Why did you agree to come and help me? I’m surprised anyone would even care.”

What? Chat knew things were bad at school today but he didn’t think they were bad enough for Marinette to think no one cared about her...

“You’re Parents were worried when you didn’t come home from school and they contacted your friend that runs the Ladyblog.” Chat explained, Marinette perked her head up when he mentioned Alya.

“Alya?” She asked. Chat nodded before continuing.

“She alerted me and Ladybug through the emergency status on the blog, I meant with your parents for details and I started looking for you instantly.”

Marinettes eyes were wide as she took in the infomation.

“And Alya?”

“I passed them on the way here. Her and a young fellow with a red hat are out looking for you right now. Along with your parents too of course.”

A small smile graced Marinettes face as she fiddle with her bag once again.

“My turn.” Chat said getting her attention, he stood up and stretched his back. “Ready to go home?” He offered a hand down to her, palm up. Marinette grabbed it instantly, pulling her self up effortlessly and standing closer to him, wrapping her arms around his neck.

“Ready. I shouldn’t worry people any longer.”

Chat smiled at her, reaching behind him to grab his baton from his back, when a thought struck him.

“Shit. What about Ladybug? Isnt she coming back for you?” He glanced down at Marinette, how look very uncomfortable. What was that about?

“Couldn’t you just.. ah, contact her after you drop me home? Tell her I’m safe.” She suggested. Chat nodded his head, yeah that was be easy. He wanted to talk to her anyway about leaving civilians on the effiel tower anyway.

“Come on, Princess. Let’s go.” He whispered as he tightened his grip on her and jumped off the beam they were upon, catapulting them towards her family bakery.

[whipped-for-kpop-fics]

A Sweet Treat (Hongbin oneshot)

ooooof CAN I HAVE A HONGBIN where reader isnt feeling too good bc of stress and the reader is being comforted by hb? just pure flufffff 🥳🥳🥳😘

Here you go my lovely!!! I hope it’s okay!!! Thank you so much for your request!! -Mimi

You were focused on the paper in front of you, staring blankly as your mind was in overdrive. You didn’t noticed Hongbin come into the room, despite him knocking and calling your name. His gaze softened as he stood at your side, noting that you’d still not noticed him, seeing that you were trembling slightly and the faint hint of perspiration on your forehead. He placed his hand gently on your head, petting your hair softly. It took a few moments but when you finally noticed him you let out a small noise in surprise. “Ah, Binnie.” you looked up at him from your seat, brows furrowed in a sad frown. “What’s up? You seem unwell.” he asked, still petting your head, his other hand brushing against your cheek briefly as he tilted his head. You let out a long sigh, rolling your shoulders. “I’m just stressed.” you admitted after a dramatic pause. Hongbin shook his head and grabbed your arms, leading you out of your chair. “Binnie? What are you doing?” a small smile graced your lips as he beamed at you, cheeks dimpling. “You need to chill out, Y/N.” he started, pulling you into his chest as he wrapped his arms around you. ��So let’s have fun, okay?” He pulled away from you to look at your face as he asked, a sincere and gently smile stealing your breath away. You nod as he pulls you out of your study and into the living room. “What’s your favourite thing to do when you don’t have any work to do?” he asked his hand falling from your arm, only to lace his fingers with yours. You looked mildly surprised, he was really going all out to help you destress.

“Hey! How are you getting perfects when I’m doing exactly the same and only getting goods!!” Hongbin complained, a laugh in his voice as he tried his best to beat you at Just Dance. You loved playing this game and it showed, he didn’t win a single song. “Wow, you’re so amazing at this!” he praised, breathing heavily as he grabbed a bottle of water. “You really enjoy that game huh?” he asked after a few gulps of water, grinning happily at you. You nodded, a shy smile forming on your face. “You want some water?” he offered you a bottle before you could answer. One of the little ways he made sure you were drinking enough was just handing you a bottle or glass, or leaving it by your side on your desk. He probably didn’t think you’d noticed, but you did. And every time it warms your heart. Your smile grows wider as you beam at him, eyes full of adoration as you gratefully take the bottle. “Thank you, Hongbin.” his face twitched, not that you noticed as you relieved your dry throat, his cheeks tinged with pink at the pure sincerity in your voice as you thanked him, using his actual name to show just how much you truly meant it. You let out a sigh as the water quenched your thirst, startling Hongbin from his stupor. “Um, what do you want to do know, Y/N?” he asked turning so you wouldn’t notice his flustered expression. You hummed in thought, as Hongbin set about turning the game off and putting everything back in its place. “Maybe we could go get cake?” you posed, turning to face him. “Ah, from that one dessert place you always go to?” you nodded, “Ah! W-wait how do you know I always go there!?” you squeaked upon realising what he’d said. You often went there even though you tried to not eat too many sweet things too often. But you were sure you hid the evidence. Hongbin laughed, “When you come back smelling like sweets, have ice cream on your top or taste like cake when I give you a kiss it’s pretty obvious.” he pulled you to him again, kissing your lips softly, “Besides you said the other day when we walked past that they had great cake.” he winked before heading towards the door to grab his jacket. Your face was red as a tomato as he handed you your jacket, chuckling all the while. “Binnie, don’t laugh it’s not funny!” you huff in frustration, pouting as he simply pulled you to him and kissed your forehead. “You’re too cute Y/N. You’re so fun to wind up.” he added as he locked the door behind him. “Meanie.”

“And would you like to try our couple’s shake? It’s on the house, just pick your flavour!” the cheery waitress chirped, having taken down their orders already. Hongbin nodded, and turned his attention to you, “Sure, Y/N you like (fave flavour) the best right?” you grinned nodding happily, you knew Hongbin wasn’t a massive fan of things like a shared milkshake with silly straws for couples to sip from at the same time, but you also kind of hoped he’d indulge you this once. As you waited for the waitress to come back, Hongbin made sure your mind didn’t wander to the things that had been piling up the stress at home. He took your hands in his, your attention snapping to his face, smiling cheekily at your shocked face. “B-Binnie?” you asked trying to will the blush away from your face. “Y/N I had a funny dream last night.” he began, just holding your hands like it was something he always did, “We were just walking down the street when suddenly you turned into a cat!” you giggled at the randomness of the topic, “But it was normal for that to happen? Because we both seemed unfazed by it and continued walking.” he laughed too, struggling to tell the rest, “And then suddenly we were in the arcade from the Hanamura map from Overwatch and you were human again,” he paused to try to stop laughing, while you were crying with laughter,”A-and we started playing DDR but then you got into and argument with Genji.” he let go of your hand so you could cover your face, you were laughing so much, “And then Hanzo randomly appeared and started doing his dance emote and then I woke up.” he concluded shaking his head as he attempted to regain his composure. You were still hiding your face as you continued to cry with laughter. “B-Binnie what the heck?!” you managed between bouts of laughter, “That’s so random, oh my gosh.” you continued, wiping your face and fanning yourself as the waitress arrived with your stuff. “Enjoy!” “Thank you.” Hongbin replied, you were still recovering from laughing so much. He just watched with an amused look until you were ready to dig into your delicious treat. “Ahhh, Hongbinnie I can’t believe you just randomly told me that. What did you eat before going to bed?” you asked with a laugh, he didn’t reply though. He just moved the milkshake with the two straws in it in front of you, leaning over the table slightly to be able to actually drink from the straw facing him. You stared wide eyed at him, he was really going to do it?! “Eh? Really?!” you squealed, half expecting him to say he was kidding. “Do you not want to?” he teased. “Y-yeah I do!” you object, embarrassed but happy. You shyly take the other straw and with your noses almost close enough to touch, you look at each other. The close quarters and direct eye contact made your heart skip and you cheeks warmed, but even more than that, the pinkish tinged to Hongbin’s cheeks really made your heart beat faster as you both took that first sip on the milkshake. A loud click stirred you both from the intimate moment, “Congratulations! You’re the first couple to do that today with the free shake, so your desserts are on the house!” the waitress beamed, handing Hongbin the polaroid she’d taken of you as you shared the milkshake. “Thanks for making my day! The others didn’t think anyone would do it today, but when you two came in I knew for sure that such a cute couple would do it! Bye, and enjoy!” she skipped off, presumably to rub her victory in her colleague's faces. Your face felt like it was on fire as some of the other people dining there cheered. Hongbin’s face was also very much heated, but he was smiling fondly at the developing polaroid in his hand and you felt your heart melt. “I hate to admit it, but this is pretty cute.” he admitted, showing you the picture with a genuinely happy smile. When you woke up that morning you thought the day was going to suck, but Hongbin made sure it was one of the best days you’d had recently and now you had a picture to always remind you. You smiled so happily you thought you’d never smiled such bright smile in your life. “Thank you Hongbin, seriously you’ve made today so wonderful!” he guffawed bashfully, but touched your cheek gently, “You deserve a treat Y/N, you’ve been working so hard.” he leaned in and placed a chaste kiss on your mouth, “I love you.”

[markwrecksmysoul]

Bts reaction to: their bestfriend asking them to be their first time

Namjoon

You were lying on your bestfriend namjoons lap watching a movie the main character was in a 'hot' scene. Your thoughts wandered to the topic of your own sex life or lack thereof. You've never done it with anyone. You just didn't trust anyone with something special like your virginity.

Not to mention you were terrified about something going wrong. "Joon what was your first time like?" namjoons eyes widened. "Why do you wanna know?" you shrugged. "Im just curious". He cleared his throat awkwardly. "Well i- i guess my first time was alright why are you asking y/n?" your face heated up and you sat up. "Ive never done it before".

His eyes widened. "Um well sex isnt that bad I mean your first time might not be the best but its worth it when you find someone special." you bit your lip getting an idea. "Joon would you do it? You know with me?" Namjoon looked shocked. "Uh y/n as much as id like to say yes your first time should be with someone you care about and love."

you nodded. "I care about you and you're the only one I could trust with something like this." Namjoon looked unsure. "Please joonie". Namjoon sighed. "I- only if you're okay with it." you smiled. "Im okay with it definitely." namjoon smiled lowering you onto your back. "Then lets do it".

Jimin

You and jimin were in his room alone playing board games the boys all went out. You and jimin were talking about random stuff. Then the subject landed on sex. Jimin talked about some of his horror stories with sex. "Yeah then her boyfriend came home! She had a BOYFRIEND". He laughed.

"Anyways y/n what's your story?" your face heated up. "I uh I don't have one..." jimin grinned nudging you. "What the the first time was perfect?" you sighed shaking your head. "No I meant I've never had sex before." jimins eyes widened. "What how is that you're gorgeous y/n. Guys should've been all over you."

You shrugged. "I just never trusted anyone enough to do it with". Jimin nodded taking a sip of water. Then an idea popped into your head. "Can you be my first!" Jimin spit his water out to the side. "What!". You smiled at your shocked bestfriend. "I want it to be with someone I trust and you know what to do". Jimin blushed red. "Y/n um I just um- id be taking your first time we aren't even together....have you thought this through?".

"Yeah and I want you to do it jimin I trust you and we've known each other for years". Jimin looked unsure studying you to see what this situation was. "Well what do you say? Can you". Jimin sighed. "Y/n...". Your spirits lowered. "Do you not find me attractive enough jimin."

"No! No that's not it I just- oh fine strip and lay down".

Suga

You and suga were in the studio you were supposed to be helping him with some lyrics but your mind was elsewhere. You had just turned (age) and you were still a virgin. Sure guys have tried but they've never been right for you. "Yoongi ah?" the busy man barely looked from his papers. "Mm?"

"How was your first time?"

Yoongi made a surprised face. "Yah why would you want to know?" you shrugged but knowing how suga is you simply waited for him to begrudgingly answer your question. As expected yoongi sighed. "It was pretty good we both I dont know...felt good". Yoongi face was slightly red. You nodded taking in the information. "Why did you ask?"

You sighed. "Well lately I've been thinking about it". Yoongi frowned. "Youve been thinking if my sex life......?" your eyes widened realising how that sounded. "Oh no no I meant me....im a virgin I haven't found the right person to you know take it". Yoongi raised a brow at you. " it'll happen for you one day y/n". You took a deep breath. "C-can that day be today?" yoongi had pretty much given up on writing now.

"What do you mean?" you sighed. "Yoongi can you take my virginity?" yoongi blinked a few times. "No". Your eyes widened. "Yah i always help you with your problems and now you can't help me with this!" yoongi groaned. "Y/n that's not something I can just take lightly you must not be thinking straight-" you stopped him from speaking smushing your lips onto his. "Just take it ill be fine." yoongi reluctantly continued your initiated attack.

Jhope

You and jhope were watching youtube videos on your laptop when you just suddenly popped out the question. "Hey hobi would you be willing to take my virginity?" jhope who was eating a grape choked on it. "What! Why would you ask!" you fiddled with your fingers biting your lip. "I just....wanna get it over with".

Jhope recovered from his near death choking. "I don't know about this y/n you should do this with someone who you know you really like."

You smiled. "Well you're my bestfriend and I like you". You crawled over him giving him puppy eyes. "Please help me out I promise it wont be weird after hobi".

"O-okay".

Jin

You were lying on his living room floor bored. "Eomma! Whats sex like?" jins eyes widened. "I-I dont know its sex....". You glared in his direction. "Not helpful". Jin shrugged "how exactly do you want me to respond to that question y/n?". You sighed. "I dunno I just wanna know if i should be scared. "

"Oh! You've never....well its not scary y/n". Jin gave you a reassuring smile going back to reading his recipe book. You nodded. "Can you show me?" jin dropped his book in his lap and swallowed hard. "Y-you want me to show you?" you nodded. "Ummm y/n-".

"I know it's a special thing but I just want to do it with someone I feel safe with." jin seemed to be deep in thought for a moment but finally nodded. "Okay" he lifted you up by your waist forcing your legs to automatically wrap around his waist. He led you to the bed. "Just lie back"

Taehyung

You and Tae were hanging out in your room playing uno. You had the house to yourself. While playing the thought that's been controlling your mind came up again. "Hey Taehyung how is sex?" he cocked his head to side reshuffling the card deck. "What do you mean y/n?" you sighed. "How was your first time?" his mouth made and O "um it was good for me I don't know I hope for the girl it was good as well why?"

You cleared your throat getting right to the point. "Tae can you take it?" he knew exactly what you meant but still he asked. "Take what y/n?" he had a small smirk on his face. You sighed. "You know what I mean Tae." Taehyung rolled you under him abandoning the card game. "Not really y/n". You growled. "Can you take my virginity please". You best friend pretended to think it over. "Hm I guess I can". His face suddenly got serious. "But as long as you're sure."

You nodded

"Im sure

Jungkook

"kookie have you done it before?" jungkook who was preoccupied by his video game hmmed "done what y/n?" you blushed. "Had sex". The game was stopped abruptly and jungkook nervously looked towards you. "I uh yes...I have". You breathed a sigh of relief. "Kookie this may be odd but can you...you know take mine?" his eyes widened like saucers. "Y/n....wha- why are you asking so suddenly." you huffed. "I don't know I just want to get it over with and have no regrets." jungkook blushed bright red. "I-I guess I could...only if you're absolutely sure you want this!" you nodded a little too excited. "Yes I want it".

Masterlist

[thegurlbehindthesmile]

Head Storm.

If i don't take minute to write these things down they just weigh so heavy. where do i begin.

i'm frustrated.

sometimes its like a repeating nightmare. Its me and brian and we are on a 13 hour flight to Germany. this double decker plane is huge and filled with strangers and i cant see their faces. i know our destination is a long way away. im tired. and there we are in the middle row. u next to me and me on the isle. We're sharing your blue ipod with music i never really listen to and this is the moment im stuck in.

for a minute my body goes into drive. at first you think the dream would play out as i remember, but this isnt a memory its a dream and now that im more aware- more awake within the dream; im always asking myself.

why am i here? wheres juan? wheres julian? (thats right this is a dream/ im sleeping)

and i realize im meant to doo something. and i go and look at brian and its not the same. i can barely see his face and i no longer remeber the sound of his voice. its as if im stuck in my seat.

the dream is almost paused- as i struggle to put these pieces of the real memory back together. its like im waiting. im waiting for brian to speak first. im just sitting here. on this plane.

i went to russia in 2005. the trip was from philly airport to germany than germany to russia.

it was for a youth peace team mission. we met up with kids our age over there and talked about religion and life. it wasnt just us two- we had a team of our friends and it was amazing.

It was the first time i had left the country- it was the first time i had flown without my mom. first time i felt homesick. the first time i saw how big the world really is. how there is so much to see and so much going on. it was an experience.

i never knew Demisexual was a thing. (The term 'demisexual' comes from the concept being described as being "halfway between" sexual and asexual. ... The gray-A spectrum usually includes individuals who very rarely experience sexual attraction; they experience it only under specific circumstances.)

i didnt even know what sexual was- i was young naive and anything i did know about sex and beauty most likely came from the wrong place. i managed to get all the way to freshman year of highschool without really relationships that included sexual and non sexual.

freshman year was horrible. i was the new girl becuase i didnt attend the same middle school as the other kids and my prior school was MUCH smaller than the highschool i went to. but i was excited for the change. i asked for the change.

its easy to say "well idk?" when u have lack of experience. Idk why i was single so long. idk why i never wanted a bf. idk why i have never kissed anyone idk? idk? idk? (...now i know) my first thoughts were always like omg maybe noone wanted to kiss me? maybe im the weird one. less desired. not wanted. i was the problem. i imagined my body was less than perfect and i guess my attitude and demenor wasnt the dating type (lies) i just felt weird and alone.

sometimes people cant make a sexual connection unless they have an emotional connection with someone as well. it isnt prude it isnt wierd its just how it works (literally) the better and more i get to know you i can finally start feeling any real connection at all especially sexually.

this new demisexual wasnt even a thing until i was half way through my twenties...THAT and pansexual (not limited in sexual choice with regard to biological sex, gender, or gender identity.) people would ask "well whats ur type?!" idk id say?? i didnt even realize internally i found both sexs appealing. not even just sexs just ANYone. hearts not parts we say now.

i was basiclly lost ,frustrated and didnt understand a damn thing about myself.

brian and i were friends. we went to the same church- we lived in the same town. our families knew each other. it was a very safe space for me. i didnt think brian liked me. ( i didnt think ANYONE liked me; that way anyway) i had guy friends i had girl friends i just felt like we were all at the same level. most my girl friends had kissed people, most had bfs; same with the guys. i just didnt... it wasnt that i didnt like brian- i just had no idea what any of this stuff was. how to even begin "liking someone" i wasnt stupid - i was scared? i felt scared. worried that becase i hadnt had the experiences - that i wasnt good at ANY of it. i got to know brian because he was around. youth group trips and church events ; school- we were always hanging around each other.

i was never a physical person. honestly self pleasure was the only pleasure i knew and i thought id be going to hell for masturbating so theres that complex. a secret i held tight forever.

i didnt know the more i talked and was around brian i would fall inlove with him. people SAYYY that- but in my world it was a must. it was inevitable. as long as he was open with me and vulnerable- i began to want him.

he was my first kiss. and he let me kiss him. it might of seemed innocent ( i mean it was really) but it was big for me. the only person in the world i had let in. and he was ready to reak havoc on my new world. kisses lead to make outs- making out lead to sex- and that was that. id say i was his or he was mine but i guess we were each others. i wasnt ready to do this with anyone else. i didnt think i even could. it took so long for brian to become this person for me. i was..postive; id make this love last a life time. but that wasnt the case it was a rocky 3 years but at the end of it i personally learned alot.

i still didnt know all that i said above. on my rocky one relationship road... i was frustrated. i didnt know these things existed and while life seemed easy for brian- it was not for me. i struggled and argued with myself resulting in very poor communication with brian leading to only end in sight. if i wasnt making an emotional connection with my person then it had to be the opposite; i wasnt interested at all. almost the opposite- i felt nothing.

i let the hurt find its way in- i let it block any form of fix. the emotions were turned off. and the result was sexless.

i went on a rampage and found a random lover. Peter was ..peter. i didnt know him prior to meeting him- i barely knew much about him at all. all i knew was i was numb and needed to feel again. ( now if only i had known who i was i would of tried to build and talk through these emotions, break some walls down. reopen the lines. reconnect and succeed. but i didnt know that. all i knew was i was hurting and i nolonger had my person- i wanted to feel again.) i wouldnt even say i was attracted to peter. i really wasnt "looking" at all. i wasnt looking with my eyes or my heart.

i was already pretty good at hurting myself just plain jane. but this was a whole different world. what if i could just have sex and not care. just do it and live. just feel something. and i did it. i found peter and yeah we had sex. i was postive i didnt want a relationship ( i was heading down the wrong road in the wrong direction WITH no directions) it was a mess. a mess that didnt last long (thankfully)

i look back at it now and would like to have lunch with peter. although im sure im a spek of nothing in his life stream; he was a pretty big rock in mine. mainly to say sorry. sorry for using him. more sorry that i had no intentions at all. i was a shell of person and im sorry he never got the chance to meet the true me. cuz im not that person at all. and i think he was geniune and we could of learned alot from each other.

i am 30 years old now and still to this day brian and peter are the only people ive slept with except my current husband.

ive trusted 2 (brian and juan) of those souls with my heart. my whole heart. ive been with them to the extent i lost myself. my body has craved them and known them. and they will forever have a piece of me. they took with them what insecurities i had and threw them out the window. i was engulfed and loved and it didnt stop. i had alot of sex with brian as i currently have alot of sex with juan (my husband)

if i had known who i was then i would of talked to more people. resulting in more meaningful connections. resulting in more stories and experiences to tell about. girls guys gays all different kinds of souls i would of touched and danced with. but i didnt know what i know now.

time has given me the learning ive neeeded and now i know alot.

as my nightmare continues its me and brian sitting on a 13 hour plane. i want to ask him how he is, and what hes doing. what other souls hes experienced and what life is like for him now. we would laugh and joke and unerstand that life goes on and although we are not lovers any longer we wouldnt be who we are without having known each other. on this plane its noone but us. reality doesnt hit because its just a distraction and we just want to catch up.

its like a clock is ticking and were anxious. as if he too knows this is a dream, a mear astroprojection into a memory. and noone talks. we both stay silent. its almost like i cant breathe.. its almost like im drowning.

i havent spoken to brian in atleast 10 years possibly. not a single word. across the universe is a soul i once loved wholefully and now were strangers. i think a piece of me hurts still today. like a lost limb. how can i go through life and succeed at only making connections that count when my first connection is fried and dead.

how do i begin to process the things i now understand when one small piece of me is gravitating through space.

i was told not to long ago that you are infact alive. simply living- trying to stay to urself.

as this new person i am. as i am learning and growing. you were a big part of who i was- i wish u could see who ive become. my soul acknowledges your absence and i am aware of it.

i hope love and light find you on ur dark days. and that you follow that light to become whoever you are meant to be.

[topicprinter]

Hi all, I recently wrote this post about how Drip screwed over its most loyal customers and I thought perhaps /r/Entrepreneur would get value out of my lessons learned.----If you’re not familiar, Drip is email marketing software that’s pretty heavy on the marketing automation front. I won’t do them the courtesy of a link, so you’ll have to Google them if you want to check it out.They’ve been around since 2012 or so, founded by someone I trusted, but he sold the business to Leadpages a few years ago, and it’s been going downhill ever since.I’ve been using them for years as the backbone of two “side” businesses: IndieHive, which covers this website for freelancers and the related products and services that I sell, and Everleads, a curated lead generation site for freelance designers and developers.In 2016 and 2017, I really dug deep into Drip. I built out dozens of interconnected workflows to carefully shepherd my subscribers through various funnels and sequences with duplicate emails or annoying content that’s not relevant to them. I integrated my web front-end with their APIs so that I could customize the site for subscribers. I wrote bridging scripts to connect it to Mixpanel for analytics, and I used Zapier to hook Drip up to even more services. It was the heart of my entire business, and it was awesome.But throughout 2018, things started to go awry.I kept experiencing glitches in the workflows where people would get stuck on workflow steps that should be instant, like “remove tag”. Or people would end one workflow and start another, but not have any of the data that the first workflow had set. There were honestly dozens of these little glitches, but individually they were minor.Also troubling: deliverability started to slip. Not precipitously, and I can’t prove that it wasn’t just my emails, but I have heard from others that they were having issues with getting their emails into people’s inboxes in 2018.But the most egregious thing for all of this was that support was basically no help at all. I probably opened two dozen support requests in 2018 and I’m not sure they actually resolved a single one. We’d spend hours going back and forth so they could even understand the problem. Then they’d almost always say one of two things:“For a workaround, just insert a number of delays between steps in your workflows so that the system doesn’t get confused!” So all my workflows had little 5 minute delay steps to try and make sure things worked correctly. Which they still didn’t. Wtf.Or they’d just say they need to escalate to the developers and then I’d get an email weeks or months later from some random support engineer letting me know they were still looking into why the most basic functions of their software don’t work right. Awesome.Alarmed by this, I repeatedly researched alternatives throughout 2018, but nothing seemed worth going through the pain of migration and the risk of just having similar issues somewhere else. So I kept resolving to be patient with Drip and hope (pray) that they were hard at work at undoing whatever architectural disaster had led us here.And then…In early January 2019, while I was on a relaxing cruise with my wife for our 15th anniversary, I got an email from Drip:https://ryanwaggoner.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/drip-bullshit-pricing-email-2.pngSo basically: “Hey, we’re raising our prices in 12 days! You can keep your current price if you switch to an annual plan!”And if you read it carefully, there’s something pretty important missing from this email.It doesn’t say what the new pricing is**. Seriously wtf.**So I emailed to ask. They responded the next day (so now I have 11 days) to reveal they were doubling my monthly price.Drip raised my price from $184 / month to $368 / month with 12 days notice.That’s just about the worst way imaginable to treat your oldest and most loyal customers.And it was the last straw for me.Now, to be clear, I completely understand wanting to grow a company in a new direction, or thinking that you need to raise prices to reflect more value.But you don’t do it when your platform is half-broken, you don’t do it with 12 days notice, and you grandfather in existing customers, at least for long enough for them to migrate. Also, you tell them the price when you tell them that prices are rising.It’s hard to imagine how Drip could have been more disrespectful to their customer base than what they did here.So as of last month, I switched all my subscribers to ConvertKit and ActiveCampaign for Everleads and IndieHive, respectively. That’s thousands of dollars that Drip won’t be getting from me. I managed to get both setups completely migrated off just before their billing renewal dates, in one case with literal minutes to spare.It was a pain and required some late nights but it was worth it to deny them another penny.I’m not alone in feeling upset about this. Twitter was ablaze for weeks with people who were angry and bailing for greener, more respectful pastures. I’ve taken a sick joy in watching a lot of people migrate off Drip with much larger lists than mine.I also cancelled Leadpages in favor of Instapage. I was already unhappy with Leadpages, mainly because it feels pretty clunky and dated, they aren’t very responsive to user feedback, and they’re still missing some pretty basic things (like being able to pass form data to the thank you page. Seriously?).Side note: I was going to link to the Leadpages idea portal, but they apparently shut it down. Makes sense, since it was filled with hundreds of good ideas with many, many customer votes that had been ignored for years.Regardless, even if Leadpages was awesome, they own Drip and I won’t give another penny to such an unethical company that treats its customers so poorly.And this migration was a huge pain (which is what they were counting on), partly because of how complex my Drip setups were, but also because ConvertKit and ActiveCampaign are both pretty different from each other and from Drip. On the surface, they all do some of the same things, but once you dig in, things diverge, which made the migration especially painful.Drip is complicated. Stupidly so. In fact, it’s so complicated that there are a number of problems using it:It doesn’t really work. I mean, it does like 99% of the time, but that last 1% means that some of your subscribers are going to have a bad time. And it’s not just that their emails won’t show up. They might just get stuck in a workflow, or skip some emails in a sequence, or get things at the wrong times, or lose data, etc. And since this happens randomly, the number of subscribers who experience it accumulates over time.The customer support reps don’t really know how it works, because it’s too complicated. So you end up spending hours writing up descriptions of the problem and putting together screencasts to show how things don’t seem to be working, and the only response you get is that they’ll have to ask the developers.It encourages you to setup really fancy complex automations which, even if they did work, are way beyond what you actually need. Just imagine: you can do anything! You can track everything! You can have an unlimited number of tags and fields! Track and automate all the things!Your setup can end up being really brittle and deeply tied to the Drip architecture, which is a problem if you want to migrate off. And it’s hard to expand and modify over time without breaking all kinds of things for your subscribers who are in those automations.The setup is hard to document. It’s easy to end up with a large collection of documents and spreadsheets and screencasts to try and explain not only what you did, but why you did it.It’s hard to audit and debug when things go wrong. And things will go wrong. It’s hard to tell exactly what’s happening with your subscribers, where things went off the rails, and how to get it back on track without screwing things up further.In the end, Drip for me felt like a really shitty programming language. Technically possible to do almost anything, but so painful that in the end you wish you hadn’t bothered.By contrast, ConvertKit is simple. And yes, I think it’s too simple in places. I think there are some genuine gaps in the functionality that makes it a little too hard to get done the things you want.But I’m also aware of the fact that I’m coming from Drip and a really convoluted setup, so being forced to simplify is probably a good thing.And ActiveCampaign is not simple, but it’s powerful in a bunch of ways that Drip should have been. Additionally, it has the distinction of actually being, you know, functional. Crazy, I know.Also, ActiveCampaign apparently is more open to feedback than Drip. I posted a Twitter thread listing some things that I like about it and Jason VandeBoom, the founder of ActiveCampaign, setup a call with me to go over some of my feedback. And ActiveCampaign isn’t a tiny company; they have hundreds of employees and are much larger than Drip. It meant a lot to me that Jason would just jump on the phone with a random customer to see how they could improve.Meanwhile Drip’s emails aren’t even signed by an actual person. During this whole debacle, I don’t think anyone from Drip actually responded to anyone’s tweets or complaints. A couple days after the initial announcement when things were blowing up on Twitter, they sent this out another email that was basically "sorry, not sorry"Just like their price increase, all of their corporate communication just screams “We don’t care about you. Go away.”So I did.I’m actually really glad that I dropped Drip, after all that. Partly because of how much better ConvertKit and ActiveCampaign are as tools, but mostly because it taught me a lesson about how you need to be careful when you’re a small company about who you integrate with, because while your interests may align now, that could change at any point.But this rant has gone on long enough, so I’ll save that point for a future post.Disclaimer: just in case Drip decides to sue me (which would be so on-brand for them at this point), ALL the descriptions of Drip’s functionality, failings, and communications is to the best of my recollection and should not be taken as a literal word-for-word account.----Happy to answer any questions about my experience with Drip, ConvertKit, or ActiveCampaign. Would also love to hear anyone else's experiences with any of those (or others you'd recommend in the space of email-based marketing automation).Original post: https://ryanwaggoner.com/drip-pricing-review/