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nodirectionhome-ao3 · 2 months ago

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Blood Traitor

Written for Jilytober 31 Prompts, Day 16: “My words are my faith, to hell with our good name.” 1,174 words.

———

James wakes to the sight of a red halo, hovering over him.

At least he thinks that’s what it is. It’s tricky to tell, without his glasses. It could just as easily be something dreadfully unpleasant up there. A fire charm, perhaps. Or some sort of embarrassing Transfiguration spell conjured by the lads to torment him a bit. But as his eyes adjust to the light and he squints them just so, the specific shade of red becomes undeniably familiar, and he feels his lips stretch into a smile.

“Alright, Evans?”

No answer. Blast. Is he hallucinating? That thought draws a discontented groan from him. Leave it to Avery to find a curse that makes me bloody hallucinate.

He groans again when he sits up, biting his tongue against the flash of pain that surges through his body at the movement. It’s everywhere—his muscles, his joints. Even in his damn ears, somehow.

He reaches out blindly with his hands, patting at the nightstand and huffing a bit when he doesn’t find what he’s looking for.

“Here, mate,” a new voice says. Sirius. A cold hand finds his, and he feels his glasses pressed into his palm.

“Ah, thanks Padfoot.”

James blinks as his vision slips into focus. The scene that awaits him is decidedly not cheerful. He’s in the hospital wing, his bed surrounded by people—Sirius and Remus standing to his left, Pete at his feet, and on his right…

Lily sits perched on the edge of the bed beside him, her hands fidgeting in her lap. Her hair is pulled back away from her face, and her eyes are rimmed with red and somewhat dulled with the tell-tale signs of a long afternoon spent crying.

A different kind of pain jolts through James at the sight—far worse than anything physical. He racks his brain immediately for the best way to comfort her, to soothe her, to show her that this is nothing—nothing.

“You gave us a right scare there, Prongs,” Sirius speaks up after a moment. His expression is grim—too grim—like he’s staring down at a ghost. It unsettles James, distinctly. “How’re you feeling?”

“Bah.” James waves a dismissive hand, biting back a wince at the pain that runs through him. “I’ve felt worse.” A lie and they all know it. “Those Slytherins should really reconsider their methods here. All they’ve really done is give me a brilliant excuse to miss class for a week or two. Or d’you think I could stretch it for longer? They can handle the Tentaculas in Herbology while I’m kicking back in bed—eating the finest foods the kitchen has to offer and watching my dear friends do all my homework for me. The high life, truly.”

Sirius’s mouth twitches, almost into a smile. “First of all, you prat—you’ll be eating nothing but broth for a while, with all the potions Pomfrey has you on.”

“Delicious,” James says.

“And second of all—” Sirius really does smile this time. “—if you think any of us are going to do your homework for you, you’re as dimwitted as the dungeon snakes.”

James grins. “My, my, Padfoot. Don’t you see how grievously injured I am?”

Sirius opens his mouth to retort—no doubt with a blistering quip on the tip of his tongue—but before he can, a horrible noise bursts from James's right as Lily bursts into tears.

James stills, his heart stuttering to a stop. He can count on one hand the number of times he’s seen Lily Evans cry, and he’s never—never seen her cry like this. She’s sobbing in a matter of seconds, the back of her hand pressed against her nose while she shakes and shudders.

“Lily,” James says, not bothering to cover his wince this time as he pushes against the mattress beneath him, dragging himself closer to her. “Oh Merlin, Lily, no, don’t—”

“I’m sorry,” she gasps. “I’m so sorry. I’m so—”

“Hey, no, it’s alright—”

“No, it’s not. It’s not alright, James. You—” She hiccups. “You could’ve died, and it’s—it’s—it’s all my fault.”

James feels his heart plummet. “Whoa, hey—enough of that, now—here, shhh—c’mere—”

She doesn’t protest when he pulls her closer, collapsing against his chest in a flurry of sobs. He kisses the top of her head—once, twice, three times. He smooths her hair. He kisses her head a fourth time. “It’s not your fault, love,” he soothes. “This had nothing to do with you.”

It’s not entirely the truth, and he suspects they both know it. After all, they’d only been public about their relationship for a day before the Slytherins cornered him in that dark corridor. And Avery had certainly made his motivations crystal clear while he and his goons surrounded James, aiming curse after curse at his aching body.

‘Blood traitor,’ he’d snarled, over and over again with each successive curse. ‘Blood traitor,’ spat through flashes of green. ‘Blood traitor,’ hissed with each kick to James’s ribs. ‘Blood traitor, blood traitor, blood traitor,’ until it was all James could hear. Until he couldn’t think, breathe, feel—

“It’s not your fault,” James says, more firmly this time. He can’t bear to let her think that. “Their hatred is not your fault.”

“James—”

“Lily.”

He pulls back as delicately as he can, gently guiding her face away from his chest until she’s looking up at him and he’s smoothing those fly-away hairs of hers behind her ears, pressing his forehead down to hers. He can smell the faint aroma of her shampoo. Citrusy. Soft. Intoxicating. Lily.

“To hell with them,” he says. “To hell with all of them. I don’t care about blood or surnames, Lily. You know that.”

She inhales shakily, shivering a little while his thumbs brush those blasted tears from her face. “I—I know. But—”

“No buts,” James whispers. “They can do whatever they want to me, but they’ll never make me love you any less.”

She lets out a shuddering breath, a strangled sob, and then she’s sinking against him again—burying her face into the soft flannel of his hospital pajamas.

He smoothes her hair again. He kisses her temples. It takes some time, but eventually he feels her begin to ease. Her sobs peter out, her body stills, until she’s no longer shaking against him but is just leaning there. And he’s just holding her. And all is right, really, when they’re sitting here like this.

“But,” he says at last, taking back up his earlier teasing cheerfulness. “If you really want to thank me for being a perfectly gallant, brave, self-sacrificing sort of boyfriend—”

Sirius and Pete both snicker. Remus groans.

“—then I wouldn’t say no to you doing my Potions essay for me.”

Lily chuckles against him, and the tension James has been holding in his chest breaks at last. She lifts her head again to look at him, and he’s relieved to see that usual sparkle lighting back up in her eyes. “In your dreams, Potter.”

#jily #jple #jilytober #love in the time of spiderwebs

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lazyleafeon · 2 months ago

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i put a lot more time into my piece for the serenity zine than I usually do, so ive been wanting to make a write up with more details about what i was intending + stuff thats easy to miss (full piece without the character names can be seen here)

[ID: a drawing centered on a young kim dokja writing in a notebook, surrounded by paper cut outs of ways of survival characters. there are names next to the cut outs to clarify which characters are which. End ID]

1: text on the characters

the text on all of the characters are all quotes from orv. for characters from specific rounds, the text is specifically linked to those rounds (ex: 1863 uriel has text from when kdj is thinking about how gabriel isn't aware of her own betrayal of eden). Where i could, i tried to find text that paralled kdj somehow (sp with changing the 999th worldline, and 41 sys with her resentment towards yjh paralleling kdj's towards lsk for leaving him behind.).

for characters that aren't from specific worldlines (or where i couldn't find text i wanted to use that related to their worldlines) , the text either centers something i feel is central to orv (ex jhy talking about the final wall is used in both of her cut outs), kdjs perception of the character or thoughts of them from wos (ex lsh and his line about not really knowing her), or something about the character that parallels kdj (bihyungs cut outs are both about his ending of sacrificing himself, yma is about yjh leaving in the epilogue and her belief he won't come back (which works doubly as yjh leaving as kdj often did, and yma being left behind by her guardian)).

there is also sunfish yjh. who only says "the sunfish" because of the constraints of being a tiny piece of paper. The full quote is "Maybe I had been lucky until now. I might be the 'sunfish' rather than yoo joonghyuk" from chapter 38.

i don't think everything like, perfectly follows these categories, but that was the intent for the most part. One intentional exception is that the yjh near the bottom of the drawing has the text: "I want to read this story for a little bit longer"

if you want to read all the text, I have it up on a doc here. (you can also ask me about thoughts behind specific quotes if you want to know why i chose them)

2: amount of characters + visual details

there are 2 versions of each character for the most part, with 4 exceptions: kdj (3), yjh (6, counting the sunfish but not the kkoma), and na bori and knw only having 1.

the reason there's only one na bori is because her fate is, for the most part, set before her story can be changed by yjh. there is only 1 of her in all of the characters memories, outside of the 1865 worldline (though given we see knw after kdj kills him, its not out of the question there isn't a worldline where she reappears.)

for kim namwoon, its part because of kdj's hatred for him as someone he sees himself in, and part because kdj in orv like. replaces knw pretty directly by killing him and trying to become yjh's companion. so in kdjs notes and doodles based on wos, knw is here only as an outergod king, where kdj is unaware of him.

the outer god kings all have at least one element that sets them apart from the other cut outs: sp has his crumpled paper cloak, knw's cut out is in the shape of dragons near the edges, uriel is on fire, lhs is partially tin foil, and ljh has a water stain and some of her paper is peeling off into water. this represents them being unbound from the worldlines, but since they're still bound to the story they're still made of paper.

anna croft (near uriel) is intentionally a little more 3D than the other characters, since she has memories from past worldlines. she's supposed to seem like shes going against the tide.

1863 uriel is also a bit of an exception, though not intentionally, since her halo looks better as a separate piece of paper, and i wanted her to have flames too... it fits because shes a constellation and seeing the story from a somewhat outside perspective but is still a part of it, but it wasn't intentional.

near the edges of the piece towards the right, some characters outlines start to become faded, and the paper cut out outlines become more irregular. the outer god kings are exempt because they've managed to keep their sense of self to an extent outside of the worldline.

some of kdjs books are from his library in orv.

the text for all characters is slightly cut off (i tried to make it so most of the quotes are missing some texts so you can't actually read them in full). this is both because they're cut out of a larger page, and because kdj can't actually learn everything about the characters once he meets them by reading them because you can't read people like that. so some of the text is out of view because the characters are viewed as characters to kdj and not "real" yet, so kdj doesn't see their full stories.

some concept art + one of the earliest digital sketches i have. all of my works in progress have a billion notes left on them so i know not to forget something when i get back to them:

[drawing of yjh made of paper, and an earlier sketch of the overall piece]

i sort of wish i kept the paper style of this yjh, but it wasn't meant to be....

3. final thoughts........

this really is the most... orv piece i've ever done (?), in a lot of ways. there is nothing that makes you feel more like kdj like searching up orv quotes from memory and then scrolling through the epub on your phone to find what you want. i even ended up explaining it to my mom and having to show her what a sunfish was.

there are things i would change about it if i did it now (i would probably erase the outline from adult kdjs cut out and emphasize his shadow falling on it instead), and things i didn't get to do that would've made it more like what i envisioned (ideally i would've reread all of orv to find quotes. and i didn't do that).

It's personal to me in ways that are kind of silly. I used to doodle a lot of paper cut out creatures in high school, which helped a lot with getting the sort of paper movement down here. and of course the handwriting is just my own, so i had to actually rewrite the quotes i found. it's probably the most ambitious piece i've drawn yet composition wise, and i don't think ive spent so long on a single illustration besides art studies for school. It feels like a love letter to everything orv means to me.

if you've read this far, thank you :)! i don't normally go into this much depth about my thought process, but there's a lot here i don't expect people to pick up that i wanted to get into

#my art #orv #orv spoilers

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milliesfishes · 2 months ago

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⋆౨ৎbilly teaches you about halloween⋆౨ৎ pirate billy x fem mermaid reader

One of Billy's absolute favorite things about you was how curious you were, how excitedly you coaxed the world to open up to you in beautiful ways. Life was your oyster, but you were the pearl, in his opinion.

On the days when he made it down to your secret spot to meet up, you'd always greet him with a kiss, and he'd sit down to answer any questions that had accumulated in his absence.

Today you'd reached up for him as usual, and he'd bent in the surf to scoop you up and hold you while standing, the way you adored. "Hi baby," he murmured, kissing your nose. "How's m' girl?"

You smiled, wrapping your arms around his neck and pressing a kiss to his nose. "I'm good. I missed you."

"Aww, missed you too, angel." Billy began to wander around the beach, keeping to the routine, keeping a steady pace as he held you firmly. The sun was beaming down, swathing you in a halo of the highest order, only the best for his girl. He finds a nice place at the thick, sturdy base of a palm tree, settling you on his lap. Your tail flutters in a satisfying way, a sure sign of your relaxation.

As expected, you're quiet for a moment, just enjoying being with him after what felt like such a long time of not. But just as always, you raise your head from his shoulder with that remarkably adorable look on your face, lips fixing to ask. “Billy? What’s All Hallow’s Eve?”

That immediately broadens his smile, stretching it like a line to a knot. “Didja hear people talkin’ ‘bout it, sweet girl?”

“A few villagers,” you affirm, nodding to prove your point. A strand of salt combed hair fell over your shoulder, hanging like a stretch of seaweed from the railing. “They were talking about lots of things about it. And I’ve never heard of it before.”

“Hmm.” Billy rakes his fingers through your hair as if smoothing it out. He gathered his words, trying to think of a way to explain the holiday. “Well…it’s a celebration, y’know? For the fall.”

“The fall of what?”

You tilt your head and Billy smiles, dragging the pads of his fingers over your collarbone. “‘s the name of the season baby. When the leaves change colors.”

“Do they?” You lift your chin to look at the palm trees, enormous leaves fanning out in a lengthy curtain blocking the lowering sun.

Billy rested his chin on your head, grinning like he’d come across sunken treasure. “Not these leaves. Leaves in other places. On the continent leaves change colors. Turn red ‘n orange ‘n yellow. ‘S real pretty.”

Gasping in delight, you tugged on his arm securing you. “You need to show me someday. I wanna see the pretty leaves.”

Ducking to press a kiss to your cheek, Billy murmured, “Course I’ll show ya baby.”

Satisfied by this response, you shifted comfortably in his arms, leaning back against him. “So what happens on All Hallow’s Eve?”

“Children dress up ‘n play tricks,” he explains, recalling his own celebration of the holiday when he was a child. “Folks tell ghost stories. Or stories ‘bout anything that ain’t human, really.”

“Would they tell stories about me?” you giggle, turning around in his arms so your belly is pressed right to his.

Pressing his lips to your nose, Billy allows a chuckle to slip past his lips. “Can’t imagine anybody who knows my girl wouldn’t be tellin’ stories ‘bout her.”

“What story would you tell?” you question, drawing seashell patterns into his chest.

“I’d talk ‘bout the prettiest girl to ever cross my way, tell ‘em ‘bout how sweet she is, how she’s got a voice like an angel…” Billy trailed off, getting lost in his own imaginings. Then he came back down to earth, realizing himself and dutifully kissing your forehead. “Anyways, that’s just the beginning.”

“I hope you have it all ready to tell by the time we go see the pretty leaves together,” you said sweetly, resting your cheek on his chest.

“I will, baby,” Billy promised, setting his big hand on your crown. “I will.”

tagging @kellielovesmovies because <3

#billy the kid #billy the kid x reader #billy the kid fanfiction #billy the kid x you #william h bonney x reader #william h bonney fanfiction #william h bonney x you #billy the kid 2022 #billy the kid imagine #billy the kid fic #billy the kid fluff #william h bonney #william h bonney imagine #milliesfishes billy #millie's fall fest #millie's flufftober

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adnauseum11 · 8 months ago

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Non- Mission Essential (John Price x Reader)

John owes Kate a dinner and makes good on his promise. You are introduced to people from John's work life.

3k words

CW: swearing

This work is part of the S.N.A.F.U series, the Masterlist is pinned to my blog

The restaurant is based off a real one that exists elsewhere in the world. It's a sumptuous affair so it's sprawled over two chapters.

If it wasn't clear that I grew up before cell phones, this chapter should solidify that. I'm roughly the same vintage as John and can confirm life before caller ID and knowing who is calling.

Feedback welcome!

The evening is lit up by streetlamps by the time you arrive at the Chop House for dinner, the cold air heavy with threatening snow. The sidewalks gleam wet under the streetlamps and headlights of the passing traffic. John looks dapper in a dark grey three-piece suit, the tie and handkerchief patterned with a deep green that compliments your dress. You had smugly assumed John would be the problem tonight, his gaze heating every time he caught a glimpse of velvet stretched over your curves as you got ready.

He had been preoccupied with getting himself dressed so he had missed your initial lingerie selection, a strapless bra and no panties – the dress too tight for anything else without showing lines. Not much escapes the big man’s notice but you are thankful that seems to have flown under his radar, although with his inclination to be handsy with you, you wonder how long your luck will hold. As it turns out, however, the tailored lines of his suit keep drawing your eye, distracting you completely. His broad shoulders fill out the jacket like it was molded to his measurements with exacting precision. He’s caught you out twice so far, not paying attention at all to what he’s saying, wrapped up in fantasies that glaze over your eyes. The second time he smiled deeply, the corners of his eyes crinkling as he gently jolted you out of your X-rated daydream to put your high heels on. You’re wearing a long black pea coat over your dress, the velvet doing a decent job of keeping your legs warm as you step out into the cool night air.

You share a secret smile with him when he helps you out of the car, the valet waiting for the door to close behind you before taking the car to be parked. You have butterflies in your stomach, wanting to make a good impression on these women. John spoke highly of both of them, although he’s only worked with Kate. His presence is soothing, an anchor to your tumultuous anxieties. You run your hand over the front of his jacket, unnecessarily smoothing his lapels down, letting your eyes wander over the material wrapped around his deltoid.

“If you don’t stop looking at me like that-”

John’s voice is pitched low, for your ears only, but he gets cut off by someone calling his name. You’re slightly disappointed you don’t get to hear the rest of the threat, John’s hand landing low on your back, steering you forward.

“Kate. Michelle.”

A pair of women step towards you, one dirty blonde with shorter hair and the other slightly taller, wearing her dark, thick, curly hair slicked back, gathered into a high bun at the top of her head. It creates a halo effect, framing her face beautifully. John greets them both with brief hugs before introducing you first to Kate, the blond, and then her wife, Michelle. Kate has no jewellery aside from a wedding ring that you can see, but Michelle has golden hoop earrings that complement her honey skin and her matching wedding ring. As John advised earlier you forgo air kisses for shaking hands with them both, Kate’s grip is firm where Michelle’s is gentle.

“Shall we?”

Kate asks, her accent not as twangy as you had anticipated. John leads the way, holding the door open for your group as you file in behind him. You hand your coat over to the attendant at the coat room, waiting for the rest of the group to do the same. Kate is wearing a suit herself, a dark blue with black silk lining the slim lapels and a crisp black button-down shirt. Michelle is wearing a retro off the shoulder A-line cocktail dress, thick pleats of navy-blue fabric gathered around the waist of the skirt creating a classic feminine silhouette. A chunky gold necklace matches her earrings and catches the subdued lighting.

“Oh, I love your dress!”

Michelle says as she turns to rejoin you after handing over her own coat. You feel heat crawl over your cheeks, shooting a look at John before thanking her and telling her you were just admiring hers. John looks smug, and his hand resettles on your lower back, sparking the low simmering desire in your belly. A part of you knows you will never be able to wear this dress again without thinking of him, buried deep inside you and telling you he thought of you wearing it when he was alone, off working somewhere in the world. John’s warm hand stays on your lower back, a tactile reminder of those recent erotic memories until you reach your table, when he pulls your chair out for you.

The restaurant is styled in classic old-world opulence, the wingback chairs wrapped in leather and the table tops made of marbled quartz. Kate repeats the gesture for Michelle, pulling out the chair opposite yours for her to sit. John and Kate exchange a look you don’t understand before taking their own seats. John sits beside you, looking like the cat that got the cream. Kate notices as well.

“You’re looking well John.”

John looks up from the drink menu, casting an assessing eye over Kate before responding.

“Been resting up at home the last few days. Are you looking forward to getting home soon, Michelle?”

John redirects the conversation, and you smile to yourself. You know better, his definition of ‘resting’ in this context broad enough to include making dinner every night and doling out regular toe-curling orgasms.

“The townhome Kate’s work puts us up in when we’re here is starting to feel like home. It’s the weather I can’t get used to. This wet cold is the worst.”

Both Kate and John make sounds of agreement, but you’ve never been anywhere with any other type of cold. Isn’t snow just frozen water?

“What’s a dry cold? How is that better?”

You venture and John turns to answer but Kate beats him to it.

“A wet cold means you have to dry out first before you can warm up. Dry cold doesn’t have the moisture in the air.”

“Doesn’t get in to your bones in the same way, love.”

John adds. Kate’s face softens for a brief moment before she carries on. Her delivery style is no-nonsense but kind.

“You only really get dry cold in places with low precipitation.”

You already know better than to ask how they know this, assuming it’s something learned first-hand. You’re realizing, not for the first time, that there is a significant part of John’s life that you aren’t privy to. Silently you wonder if Michelle is equally left in the dark about her wife’s work life.

“Is it a dry cold where you live then?”

“Washington gets its fair share of precipitation but it’s nothing compared to this country. It’s a good thing the rental comes with umbrellas ‘cause we didn’t pack any.”

Michelle answers you, and you smile at her quip, agreeing that they’re more necessity than accessory here. The waiter stops by, delivering the menus and water. John looks at you for your drink order so you don’t have to raise your voice across the table and you ask for a glass of full-bodied red, letting John choose on your behalf. Kate notices everything, her vigilance reminding you somewhat of John’s inability to relax in crowded spaces. John orders himself a single malt whiskey and your glass of wine and Kate orders a gin and tonic but Michelle sticks to water which elicits a remark from John.

“Rough night last night?”

“No, we have a Doctor’s appointment tomorrow. Trying to keep the system primed. Want it to take this time. As much as I love our semi-regular jaunts across the pond, I’m ready to sit a few out.”

“You complain about not having direct access to Gregg’s sausage rolls when we’re home for longer than two weeks.” Kate deadpans, unconvinced by her wife’s statement.

“I’ll keep my fingers crossed for you, that’s exciting.”

John ignores Kate, and Michelle rewards his discernment with a smile. He turns to you and explains the doctor in question is a fertility doctor which crystalizes your understanding of the conversation.

“That’s very exciting! Congratulations, I hope it works out for you tomorrow. You must have a generous boss to let you travel as much as it sounds like you do.”

Michelle grins, her excitement palpable.

“Thank you, I’m nervous but looking forward to it. As far as bosses go, I own my own consulting business; I do environmental data analysis so I can work from anywhere and generate my reports. I have some university students who work in placements doing the data collecting and then we assimilate it and generate a report.”

“Oh, that’s interesting!”

“Yes, and varied, each project is a new challenge. I love it.”

“She’s highly sought after in the area, there are a lot of National Parks nearby. A lot of businesses have to do impact studies if they’re operating in or near the parks.”

Kate clarifies for you, pride bleeding into her tone.

“Well, that’s lovely, built in clientele. Is that how you two met?”

Michelle tips her head back and laughs as her wife turns slightly red, but smirks nonetheless.

“No, we met in a bar in Annapolis, her boyfriend at the time was being an asshole and I de-escalated the situation.”

Kate supplies, and you suspect that’s not entirely true given Michelle’s bout of laughter. Once she’s calmed herself, she colours in Kate’s bare bones explanation.

“I was dating a man who had a delicate ego-“

Kate scoffs but holds her tongue when Michelle shoots her a look.

“-and he didn’t like that I was thinking of quitting my job at the time to start this business. He didn’t think I could make a go of it and was going to blow my life savings. Kate listened to him berate me for about ten minutes at the bar before she brought her beer over and joined us, without asking, and proceeded to counter every negative thing that man said with a potential positive. You should have seen his face. She talked me up so much I ended up leaving the bar with her that night and broke up with him the next day. I’d never dated a woman before but the confidence was so sexy, I was like a deer in the headlights. Couldn’t look away. Still can’t.”

“Aw! that’s the definition of sweeping you off your feet-“

Kate changes the topic you before you can comment any further, clearly uncomfortable with being the object of praise.

“So, how did you and John meet?”

“Oh, nothing as romantic as that. John was mates with a boy I was seeing at the time.”

It’s John’s turn to scoff but unlike Kate he doesn’t hold his tongue, adding his two cents to the story.

“Boy is right, his mouth was writing cheques his ass couldn’t cash.”

“John.”

You admonish gently, more to keep him from getting worked up about something that happened over two decades ago than anything. He sits back, gesturing for you to continue as the waiter returns with the drinks. You wait until John requests some more time with the menus before continuing, taking your wine out of his outstretched hand smoothly as you speak.

“John found out his mate had been harassing me after we broke up. Following me home from school. Waiting for me outside shops, not taking no for an answer when I told him to leave me alone. Repeatedly calling my home and asking for me even after I told him I was done. Making my life a general hell. John caught him bullying me on the way home one day after he got back from basic training. He’d been hanging around waiting for his mates to let out from school and watched my ex badger me down the lane. John got into a fist fight with him about it. Broke his cheekbone. The ass left me alone after that but John gave me his number in case he started following me around again and we stayed in touch after that.”

John sips his whiskey, seemingly satisfied with your version of events. Kate is clearly not, however.

“How come you weren’t charged with assault? None of that is in your transcript. If the MP’s got wind of it, it would have been.”

Kate asks, clearly mystified. You can’t help but note that she’s read John’s transcript and wonder what else she knows about his life.

“The lad’s parents were convinced that the natural consequences were better than their son standing trial for a stalking charge that had multiple eyewitnesses.”

“Who convinced his parents?”

It’s your turn to ask, never having considered that part before and John slides you an even look before he answers.

“My father.”

“Ah. Well, that tracks.”

John hums in agreement with you and Kate looks from you to John and back again.

“Sounds romantic to me.”

Michelle offers and you can feel heat creeping over your face again. You had been given a front row seat to a bloody and painful exchange; it had never occurred to you to think of it as romantic. Heroic maybe, but you had attributed that to your gratefulness of having the harassment finally put to a stop.

“John was just doing the right thing. We stayed mates for years after that. We only started dating a few months ago.”

You explain to Michelle but the back of your mind is now trying to rehash the past for clues of John’s feelings. Was it romantic that he beat up your ex? As if the man in question can read your racing mind he reaches over and rests a big hand on your tense thigh, his thumb stroking over the velvet in tiny circular motions. The distraction works and redirects your attention to the present moment in time to catch Kate’s words.

“Sounds like John. Can’t watch a situation go sideways without mixing in.”

She’s looking at John with the hint of a smile playing at the corners of her mouth. The man beside you doesn’t argue, raising his whiskey in salute to the dirty blonde.

“So, you’ve known each other for a while then?”

Michelle gets the conversation back on track, her eyes bouncing between you and John.

“Oh lord, yes. I couldn’t have been more than 15 or 16 when all that went down? Put me right off dating for a while. My brother would tease me that I’d be a spinster.”

“You have a brother? What was he doing when you were being harassed?”

Kate is indignant on your behalf which is endearing, considering you barely know the woman.

“He thought it was funny. He’d answer the phone and tell me it was one of my girlfriends to get me to pick up. He’s younger than me, so thought it was all a good laugh to see me scared. My parents thought it was just teen drama and told me to sort it out myself. They both worked and weren’t around much.”

John’s hand squeezes your thigh before retreating, a comforting warmth rolling through you at his easy familiarity in front of his friends. You shoot him a smile as the waiter returns to the table to take orders. Unsurprisingly, John makes the most of this opportunity and orders a porterhouse steak. You and Michelle both order smaller servings of filet mignon, and Kate surprises you by requesting a lobster and steak combo. The women seated across from you exchange a glance, Michelle clearly wanting to say something about Kate’s ambitious selection. You hide the smile that wants to erupt behind a sip of your wine at the unspoken conversation happening across the table.

“How’s your wine, darling?”

John’s eyes are on your hand, wrapped around the stem of the wineglass you are holding aloft. You’ve painted your nails a deep red, matching your lipstick, the contrast against the green of your velvet gown eye-catching. You finally let the smile that’s been threatening to creep across your face loose, John’s distraction a small victory as far as you’re concerned.

“Very good, French this time?”

You ask, his interest in all things food and drink related an endless source of fascination to you. You suspect it’s partly due to the military food he’s been eating for half his life that drives his taste to the more refined when he’s given a choice. You trust his judgement and he’s rarely steered you wrong.

“Spanish, small vineyard.”

Kate’s new line of questioning interrupts your reply to John.

“So, you have a younger brother, what about your parents? Are they still together?”

You feel your heart drop, even though you’ve fielded this question many times over the years. It never seems to get any easier for you, nor have you developed a simple way to gloss over the loss to make it more palatable. You set the wineglass down on the table while you take a breath, forcing the smile that was stretched across your face back in to place.

“Yes, they were killed by a drunk driver in a head on collision. I’m told it was instantaneous.”

Michelle’s gasp has the smile slipping but you rally, John straightening up in concern at your side.

“Shit – I’m sorry-”

Kate tries to apologize but it’s your turn to interject, waving her concern off.

“No, it was years ago now. It’s fine, I just never know how to casually slip that in when it comes up. I’m going to freshen up before dinner arrives, excuse me, won’t you?”

Your heart is thrumming against your breastbone as you stand up, John half out of his chair before your palm on his shoulder stops him. You just need a moment alone to take a few deep breaths and recenter yourself. John’s concerned hovering will only muddy your waters.

“It’s alright, I’ll be right back.”

You reassure him quietly, your voice thin against the sudden wave of emotion. Your fingers squeeze the broad muscle of his shoulder before weaving your way across the large room to the bathrooms. You don’t have to look behind you to know John’s eyes are following you, you can feel the heat of his gaze on your back sending pinpricks of awareness through you.

Next Chapter

Ao3

Taglist:

@beebeechaos @cadotoast @syoddeye @writeforfandoms

@itr-00 @chloepluto1306 @batw3nch @magsmagic

@h0n3y-l3m0n05 @chickennn-soupp @fruitymoonbeams-blog

@redwites @glitterypirateduck @tf141gloryhole

#john price x reader #john price x f!reader #captain john price #john price #friends to lovers #captain price #fanfic #john price cod #captain john price x reader #dinner #first impressions #captain price x you #x reader #john price x you #fanfiction #ao3fic

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asha-mage · 1 year ago

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I know I've gushed about it before, but genuinely, all of the effects this season and this last episode in particular have been knock down amazing.

From the way Ryma killed with the One Power- tearing apart the muscles of her enemies, scorching skin into blisters and boils- reflecting that blink and you'll miss it lore that outright killing with the One Power- not hurling fire or lighting but stopping a heart or boiling blood, is closely linked to Healing-

To the way Siuan summons up an invisible halo of daggers, ready to fling at the person who opens the door, a way to strike even in all her regalia, in a way that someone attacking her wont expect or be ready to counter in the heat of the moment, something we know again from the books she favors (her 'burst into flame' box trap)-

To the way Lanfear pulls breath out of Liandrin's son with Air, a small act of mercy and yet cruel too, the way she does it slowly, air swirling in a way that Liandrin could cut if she really wanted to-

To that tiny thread of Spirit, linking the a'dam bracelet to the collar, from the base of the neck, right at the spinal cord, to the sul'dam's wrist-

To the way Rand is almost lost in the shine of his own strength, the glow of his own power because that's how much he can draw, how much he can pull on if truly is willing to seize it-

God it's all just. So good.

#I still liked the season 1 effects #but MAN did they take a step up #WoT #WoT on Prime #Wheel of Time #Wheel of Time on Prime #Wheel of time s2 #WoT s2 #Wot S2 e6 #Rand al'thor #Egwene al'vere #Renna Emain #Siuan Sanche #Lanfear #liandrin guirale #Ryma Galfrey #Wot Book Spoilers #TSR Spoilers

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marinawolf · 1 year ago

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(drum roll, please) I officially present, the widely requested and smutty as hell, bottom Lena fic. (there's some fluff too)

You’re All Mine Now, Miss Luthor (Supercorp)

by marinawolf

NSFW. 18+

Lena stood at the center of the grand ballroom, her hands gently clasping a crystal flute of champagne. Her eyes surveyed the room, taking in the sight of the attendees mingling and engaging in conversation. The atmosphere was filled with anticipation and excitement, as guests eagerly awaited Lena's announcement of L Corp's newest ventures and its charitable initiatives.

Lena felt a surge of pride welling within her. The turnout was impressive, the results of her efforts in reshaping the public perception of her family name. She had worked tirelessly to demonstrate that she was not defined by the sins of her lineage, and now, surrounded by trusting faces, she reveled in the knowledge that she had earned their respect through her own merits. She had meticulously worked to craft a legacy distinct from her family's dark history, to show her dedication and commitment to bettering the world through her company's ventures. The turnout at the event served as validation, affirming that people recognised her integrity.

Her fingertips traced the slender stem of the champagne flute absentmindedly as her gaze swept across the crowd, searching for one person in particular. The only person that truly mattered to Lena.

And then, her heart skipped a beat as she saw Kara Danvers entering the room. In that singular moment, the world around Lena seemed to fade into the background, leaving only Kara in her field of vision.

Kara's entrance was nothing short of breathtaking. A lacy blue dress clung to her every curve, accentuating her figure in a way that left Lena spellbound. Every movement Kara made seemed to unfold in slow motion. Her hair tumbled over her shoulders in perfect curls, framing her face like a halo.

Lena longed to go to Kara, to press her lips against Kara's. But the reality of their secret relationship held her back, reminding her of the delicate balance they had to maintain. So she stood there, a silent observer, captivated by Kara's mesmerizing presence.

The way Kara's lips moved, forming words that Lena couldn't hear as she greeted people, sent shivers down her spine.

Then, as if sensing Lena's gaze on her, Kara's eyes flicked to Lena and Lena's breath caught in her throat. Kara's startling blue eyes held a depth that threatened to consume Lena whole, and Lena felt like she could spend her life staring into them, willing to drown in those oceans. Noticing Lena, a stunning smile spread across Kara's face, causing Lena's heart to almost stop. For that fleeting instant, Lena allowed herself to bask in the radiance of Kara's smile. Lena remained rooted in place, her eyes locked with Kara's, savoring the electricity that pulsed between them.

Lena's heart fluttered as she watched Kara draw nearer, every fiber of her being yearning for their bodies to be close, for their hands to lace together. But fate seemed determined to keep them apart as the master of ceremonies' tap on his champagne glass shattered the moment. He called Lena to the podium amidst a around of applause. It was time for her to speak.

Reluctantly tearing her gaze away from Kara, Lena turned her attention to the podium, assuming her CEO persona. She had a responsibility to fulfill, a duty to address the attendees and present her company's vision.

As she approached the podium, the gazes of hundreds of attendees fixated upon her. The weight of their expectations settled upon her shoulders, reminding her of the importance of this moment. Lena took a deep breath, and stepped onto the podium.

"Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests," Lena began, projecting an unmistakable tone of authority in her voice that she had perfected over time. "Tonight, I stand before you to share some exciting developments from L Corp, ones that will revolutionize the world as we know it."

A hush fell over the room as Lena described the cutting-edge medical technology that L Corp was spearheading, advancements that promised to revolutionize cancer detection. She painted a vivid picture of a future where early diagnosis and precise treatments would become accessible to all, which would save countless lives.

"But it doesn't stop there," Lena continued. "At L Corp, we are not content with resting on our laurels. We are proud to unveil our latest innovation, a prototype power supply that has the potential to transform communities. With just a single pod, we can power an entire neighborhood for an entire year, providing sustainable and clean energy solutions."

Gasps of awe and wonder echoed through the room as Lena described the immense possibilities of this breakthrough, proving L Corp's commitment to environmental stewardship.

"And as we reach for the stars, quite literally, L Corp is invested in making space travel more accessible," Lena announced. She was extremely excited about this venture. "We are actively working towards developing interplanetary trade routes, opening up new avenues for resource exploration and fostering cooperation between worlds."

The crowd murmured with excitement, captivated by the vision Lena painted of humanity's future among the stars.

"In addition to our groundbreaking advancements, L Corp is dedicated to making a difference in our communities. Tonight, I am proud to announce our partnerships with three extraordinary charities. We stand with Cancer Research, investing in life-saving breakthroughs. We strive to uplift our communities through comprehensive development programs, empowering individuals and fostering growth. And we pledge our commitment to inspiring young minds by supporting Girls in STEM, nurturing the next generation of innovators and visionaries."

A round of applause and appreciation erupted throughout the room, the collective acknowledgment of L Corp's unwavering dedication to the betterment of society.

Before she ended her speech, Lena's gaze shifted to the side, locking with Kara's. The pride in Kara's eyes made Lena choke up slightly. Kara had stood by her throughout her efforts, motivating her. Whenever Lena felt the weight of the world suffocating her, Kara was there, to lift up that weight with her strength. When Lena struggled with the effects of her family's legacy, doubting herself and her own intentions, Kara was the one to tell her that she was more than that dark legacy, that she was Lena Luthor- a good and kind person. Kara was the force that fueled her drive to push boundaries and redefine what was possible. Her Supergirl was her strength and motivation through it all.

"To everyone who believed in me," Lena's voice quivered slightly, her gaze locked with Kara's, this a message for Kara alone. "You have made this possible. Thank you."

Kara smiled softly, her gaze softening. Lena lifted her glass up, her eyes still on Kara's. "Let us not stop reaching for greater heights at L Corp."

As the crowd's cheers reverberated, Lena's intense focus on Kara dissolved, her smile widening in response. The recognition and support from those around her reminded her of the impact she was making, the strides forward she was leading. In that moment, Lena embraced the applause, knowing that her vision for L Corp was not only being realized but celebrated.

James appeared at Lena's side, offering a hand as he helped her off the podium.

"Congratulations, Lena," James said, "You were incredible up there."

Lena managed a distracted thank you, her eyes scanning the room in search of Kara's familiar presence. However, James seemed determined not to let her slip away so easily. He extended his hand.

"Dance with me, please?"

Caught off guard by James' unexpected proposition, Lena hesitated for a moment. She knew that James wanted something more with her, and she didn't want to encourage him. Before she could respond, the photographer overheard their conversation, sensing an opportunity to capture a captivating moment for the newspapers.

"Brilliant, Miss Luthor" the photographer interjected eagerly. "It'll look great in the photo spread for the paper!"

Reluctantly, Lena acquiesced, agreeing to dance with James for the sake of the photograph.

As they moved to the music, Lena's couldn't help but look over James' shoulder, desperately seeking a glimpse of Kara in the crowd. But try as she might, Lena couldn't spot her. All she wanted was to spend this moment with Kara, with the person who matter to her the most. But the crowd swelled around her, joining the dance. Amidst the swaying bodies and enchanting melodies, Lena's thoughts remained fixated on Kara. She yearned for their secret smiles, stolen glances, and the warmth of Kara's body against hers. The dance with James felt hollow, a mere facade. She wondered what it would feel like to be in Kara's arms instead, swaying to the music.

Feeling overwhelmed by the constant flurry of activity and the need for a moment of respite, Lena sought solace in the privacy of a secluded room at the back of the venue. The air was heavy with stillness, illuminated only by the flickering glow of candlelight. Velvet curtains, tied back with silken ropes, framed the window, casting soft shadows across the room. She sat on the chaise lounge in front of the window as she pulled her phone out to call Kara.

As she was about to press call, the door creaked open, revealing the very person she had been yearning for. Lena stood up.

"I was looking for you everywhere," Lena breathed.

But instead of words, Kara's response was swift and intense. In an instant, Kara crashed her lips against Lena's a desperate, hungry kiss. Lena's senses ignited, the world around them fading into insignificance as she felt herself melt into Kara's touch. Kara kicked the door closed behind her, and there was an unmistakable shift in Kara's kisses, an intensity that spoke of possessiveness and desire.

Lena surrendered willingly, her own desire echoing Kara's as their bodies pressed together. Fire coursed through her veins. Kara's hands, firm and possessive, found their way to Lena's chin, tilting her head to the side, exposing the vulnerable curve of her neck. Soft gasps escaped Lena's lips as Kara's mouth trailed a path of heated kisses along her sensitive skin.

With each press of lips and the sensation of Kara's teeth grazing her flesh, Lena's body arched instinctively, a mix of pleasure and surrender surging within her.

"You look ravishing tonight, Miss Luthor," Kara whispered against Lena's skin, her words laden with longing and possessiveness. "And it's driving me crazy to not be able to touch you." The words, charged with raw emotion, further stoked the arousal Lena felt. The wetness between her legs was already a sign of her desperation, her longing.

Kara bit down softly on Lena's neck and Lena could only gasp in response, her body beholden to Kara's command. In this private haven, the outside world faded into insignificance and they existed solely for each other.

Kara's kisses grew more urgent, intensifying with each moment. Lena's heart raced as Kara's hands trailed down her body, igniting her skin with a fiery touch, as she guided Lena towards the back of the room. She felt Kara's fingers deftly unzip her dress and unclasp her bra, allowing the garments to gracefully fall to the floor, revealing Lena in nothing but her heels and underwear. A surge of anticipation coursed through Lena's body as Kara's hands guided her towards the plush chaise lounge near the window. Their bodies pressed together, igniting a palpable chemistry that sent shivers down Lena's spine as Kara gently lowered Lena onto the chaise. She felt the cool satin of the couch beneath her bare skin and shivered in anticipation, ready to be claimed by Kara.

In a moment of exquisite dominance, Kara's hand gently closed around Lena's wrists, raising them above her head. Lena's heart raced as Kara skillfully used a tie from the curtains to secure her wrists to the chaise lounge. The subtle restriction only heightened Lena's anticipation, and she felt something tighten within her.

Admiring her handiwork, Kara smirked and Lena saw the glint in her eyes. "You're all mine now, Miss Luthor," she declared, her voice barely above a whisper.

Her words sent a shiver down Lena's spine. She loved Kara like this, dominant and commanding, taking control of Lena's willing body. Their lips met once more as the world outside the window ceased to exist.

Lena felt Kara's hands pull her down, so that the ropes around her wrist held taught. She was completely at Kara's mercy, ready to submit herself to Kara, in every way possible.

She moaned as Kara's lips left her own, and trailed kisses down her neck and chest.

Closing her eyes, Lena surrendered to the moment, letting herself be consumed by the electric touch of Kara's lips on her skin. The world around her faded away, and the only thing she could hear was the soft sound of their breaths mingling in the air and her own desperate whimpers. Her body responded to Kara's every touch, her pulse quickening and her senses heightening.

Reaching Lena's breasts, Kara's lips captured a rosy bud between them, drawing it into her mouth. Lena's breath caught, and a moan escaped her lips. The pleasure surged through her, intensifying with each gentle suck and flick of Kara's tongue. She surrendered to the delicious sensation as Kara switched to her other breast, her body arching and her fingers instinctively seeking purchase, grasping the ropes that bound her wrists.

Lena's breath hitched as Kara's teeth grazed her sensitive flesh, sending a jolt of pleasure mixed with a hint of pain through her body as her back arched instinctively, a low moan escaped her parted lips. Every subtle movement, every gentle nip, sent shivers of ecstasy racing along her nerve endings, causing her to squirm beneath Kara's touch, craving more.

She felt Kara's hands explore her body, her nails delicately scraping against her skin, causing a surge of heightened sensation to course through her.

All too soon, Kara's mouth left her chest, trailing searing kisses down Lena's body. As Kara's lips descended further, Lena's breath caught in her throat. The soft brush of kisses against her stomach sent a thrill of anticipation rippling through her. She felt the heat pooling between her thighs, aching for Kara's touch, and she yearned to be consumed. Finally, Kara's fingers found the waistband of Lena's panties and she slowly pulled them down, Lena lifting her hips slightly to let her. Then, she felt Kara’s purposely icy breath on her heated core and couldn't stop the soft, desperate whimpers that came out of her mouth.

Lena looked down, her eyes finding Kara's, taking in the sight of her beautiful girlfriend kneeling between her thighs. She squirmed, arching her body towards Kara, but the pull of the ropes restrained her and Kara placed her hands on Lena's thighs, effectively pinning her down. The soft glow of the candlelight danced across Kara's features, accentuating her mesmerizing blue eyes, as Lena looked into them desperately.

Finally, Lena felt Kara's mouth press against her, her tongue teasing Lena's folds. Lena's body trembled with each deliberate stroke of Kara's tongue. She felt Kara tease her entrance before capturing her clit between her lips, causing Lena to gasp loudly. Lena's fingers curled around the rope that bound her as Kara's skilled tongue found its mark, and she dug her nails into her palms in a desperate attempt to ground herself as the waves of pleasure coursed through her. When she felt Kara's teeth graze against her, coaxing her pleasure to greater heights, she cried out at the delicious pain. The intensity built with every stroke of Kara's tongue, and as soon as Lena was about to reach her peak, Kara stopped, pulling away. Lena whimpered desperately as Kara moved her body up, against Lena's, before pressing a desperate kiss against Lena's lips once more. Lena could taste her own desire on Kara's lips, and she groaned into the kiss.

Lena's senses were ablaze with desire as she felt Kara's fingers press against her opening, softly teasing her. The mere contact sent shockwaves of pleasure radiating through her, igniting a frenzy of need.

"Look at how ready you are for me," she whispered against Lena's lips, and Lena felt her body respond more intensely to Kara's words.

Kara broke the kiss, leaving Lena gasping for air as she looked down into Lena's eyes, her blue eyes dark with desire.

"Watching you dance with James, seeing his hands on you, drove me crazy." Kara whispered, her fingers still teasing Lena, softly dipping in and out of her folds, teasing her clit, causing Lena to lose any sense of coherence.

"You're mine, Lena." Kara growled, before finally plunging two fingers into Lena, claiming Lena in every sense of the word. The sudden intrusion elicited a guttural cry from deep within Lena's throat, her walls clenching around the invading digits. Lena's hips immediately took up the rhythm set by Kara, trying to keep up with the unforgiving pace. Kara's movements were fast and hard, pushing Lena further into the depths of her pleasure. Lena moaned and whimpered, unable to stop herself, as Kara's fingers took her to her peak, each thrust deliciously stroking that sweet spot deep within her. She wanted to tell Kara that yes, she was hers, only hers, because Lena had always been hers- she could never belong to anyone else, but the pleasure took away her ability to form coherent sentences.

Lena gasped as she felt Kara add a third finger, the delicious stretch causing her to cry out, loudly. Kara's lips crash against her own again, muffling her screams of pleasure. The ropes bit into her wrists painfully as she pulled at them, unable to keep her body from arching towards Kara. She felt her pleasure peaking, reaching the edge, and desperately moved her hips against Kara's hands, pressing against her harder.

Kara, probably sensing Lena's desperation, curled her fingers, causing Lena to cry out again, the sound muffled by Kara's lips.

"Cum for me." Kara whispered against Lena's lips, and Lena's body immediately responded to the command. Lena came undone, waves of pleasure washing over her, building and building until they crested in an explosive climax. She clenched tightly around Kara's fingers, the intensity of her release consuming her as she surrendered to Kara's control and her own pleasure, gasping and moaning. Finally, Kara's fingers slowed down, bringing Lena down from her orgasm. Lena, breathless and wholly consumed by the pleasure, fell back into the couch, her body finally sated.

Kara slowly undid the ties around Lena's wrists, her touch now gentle and tender, and placed a soft kiss to each of Lena's wrists. When Lena's hands were freed, she looked up at Kara, smiling softly. Kara's gaze was on Lena's neck, and Lena saw her lips curl into a self satisfied smirk. "I might have been a bit too eager," Kara said, a playful tone lacing her words, as her fingertips caressed Lena's neck, where Lena knew that Kara had left marks. "Looks like I've left a mark. Sorry."

Lena laughed softly, because she knew that Kara was definitely not sorry. Those were marks of Kara's possessiveness. Lena reached up to Kara's hand on her neck, and laced her fingers with Kara's before leaning in, capturing Kara's lips in a tender kiss.

She broke the kiss and pressed their foreheads together, their breaths mingling in the space between them,

"You know you never have to worry, darling" Lena reassured Kara, "The only person I want to be dancing with is you. I love you."

She saw Kara'a soft lips curl into a sweet smile at her words, and Lena's heart fluttered.

"Good. I love you too," Kara whispered, "Now, let's get out of here. There are people here to see you, Miss Luthor."

Lena groaned, and slumped against the couch. "No. Let's stay here. This is perfect. And we’re not done yet,” Lena said, her eyes scanning Kara’s exquisite body.

Kara stood up, and reached down to pull a reluctant Lena up as well, laughing.

"Don't worry, I have much more in store for you later tonight, my love. But only if you behave," Kara teased, and the Lena's desires immediately reignited.

"And what if I don't behave?" Lena asked, turning to look at Kara, a hint of challenge in her voice.

A wicked glint flashed in Kara's eyes before she leaned in, her warm breath tickling Lena's ear. "Then, Miss Luthor, I might have to find creative ways to discipline you," she whispered, and her words sent shivers down Lena's spine. As Kara made to exit the room, she paused and turned around, her eyes soft, "I'm so proud of you, you know that, right?", she whispered.

"Thank you," she whispered, and she hoped that Kara knew that it wasn't just for this- it was for everything.

After Kara left Lena alone to get dressed, Lena exited the room and caught a glimpse of herself in a mirror just outside the entrance to the bustling ballroom. A gasp escaped her lips as she beheld her reflection. There, on her neck, was a very visible mark left behind by Kara, vivid against her pale skin.

With a soft laugh, she swiftly undid the clips that held her hair in an elegant chignon. The dark tresses cascaded down, strategically covering the evidence of their intimate rendezvous. She entered the ballroom, already waiting for the end of the event as Kara's promises for later echoed in her mind.

#supercorp #kara danvers #lena luthor #supergirl #supercorp fanfic #kara x lena #kara zor el #fanfic #supercorp smut #bottom lena #top kara #kara danvers x lena luthor #smut #spicycorp

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again-and-then · 5 months ago

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part one of several, my redesigns/outfit edits of the Hazbin Cast as they appear in my Fanfic: Pride, Envy, Wrath.

my design commentary under the break.

going from Left to Right.

Lute: Classic Angel Lute design as she appears at the start of the fic. fairly unchanged from her canon appearance (my style just has some more notable curves.) She's picked up a new silver arm as is a pretty common fandom prediction but in my tale, Lute takes up Adam's old guitar in place of her sword. Just felt right, even if i hate drawing that fucking thing.

Alternate Lute: spoilers I guess, but this will be the look Lute opts for much later into the Fic. You can guess at what went down to lose her wings and Halo... she will be working for the Hotel eventually, but it has no official uniform, so I think Lute would opt for something official looking but styled off Charlie's outfit and color scheme as its Charlie's Hotel. I will admit, Lute's new fit is heavily inspired by Helltaker outfits, particularly Justice and Malina. its just good fashion.

Vaggie: Vaggie's design is one that I think is honestly pretty good, she had a unique silhouette and a cute outfit. Mostly all I've gone is give the girl the curves she deserved, particularly in the hip department... and cute new boots :]

Charlie: I adore Charlie, her new design for the show was what sold me Hazbin Hotel as I thought her old pilot look was.. pretty not great. I really didn't want to make any drastic changes beyond some color changes (her old undershirt seemed to imply a white button up but red cuffs? the fuck girl.) a lot of people have really unique ideas when it comes to Charlie redesigns but they all lean towards making her more obviously inhuman... which she isn't human, but i feel that misses the mark. its personally been my opinion that Charlie's primary form is entirely by choice, she wants to look human to seem more appealing to the former humans around her.

Husk:... Husk, oh Husk. one of my favorite characters, one of my absolute least favorite designs. Fucking Hell. I will fight Vivziepop personally to get her to stop adding minature top hats and bowties to every other goddamn character. also, think about Husk without fur. man is going bare chested, wearing a child's top hat, a bowtie, baggy pants with suspenders and no goddamn shoes. I get pathetic drunk is the idea, but give the man an ounce of dignity. if we must keep the top hat, then make it big enough to be used as a magician's top hat and get his fucking hand in. Also, a shirt. was that so hard? I don't care if his fur has little dots that look like buttons.

#hazbin hotel #hazbin hotel fanart #lute #lute hazbin hotel #hazbin hotel art #charlie morningstar #hazbin charlie #Vaggie #Hazbin Vaggie #vaggie hazbin hotel #Husk #hazbin hotel husk #redesign #Hazbin Hotel Redesign #Pride Envy Wrath #PEW Au

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lilywily143 · 1 month ago

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Evolved Voices

The voices change depending on the story and path they are a part of! Thank you again to @beartitled for this concept! Part 2

[Warning: Spoilers, Blood, Gore, Cuts, Self harm scars and injuries]

Base Cheated 3rd Medal Wings Stab scar on his chest because he's been "cheated from life" Round Shape Language

Razor Cuts from Princess's attack Sharper Shape Language

Arms Race/No Way Out More cuts Even sharper shape language Slice cut where he lost his hand [if that happens in the last chapter] WormHole Design with galaxy parts [for the teleporting power]

Mutially Assured Destruction/The Empty Cup Cut marks turn into stars Sharpest Shape Language

I had a nice time drawing @itsonlypolite 's Cheated Design. He is super cool.

[Cold Wing design]

Base Cold He's just calm in his wings, it doesn't warm him, he's just cool within himself

Spectre Bloodstain on hands X on chest Little ghosty and phasey

Wraith Frostbite Stains More ghostly and skellie apperance

Princess and the Dragon Stetchy Stains [forgot to draw them] Dragon Features

[Drafting Page]

Base Contrarian Jester man with some sharp wings for his love of knife throwing

Throw it out the window!

Stranger Ending Extra Limbs Less sharp shape language +more bells

Base Hunted Declaws Plucked off feathers Bite marks on wrists Sharp teeth

[why he has bite marks]

Hero: HUNTED!

Hunted: W-wait I-I wasn't-

Hero: No biting.

Beast Talon-like Claws More Ripped off feathers Bite and Claw Marks Missing Wing [if you're digested] Little horn like the beast

Wild Mixed features with Princess Healed fully Made of nerves

Wounded Wild Feather stems when they were plucked become a crown Stays healed Heart and nerve markings

Den [Instinct Fight] w/ Stubborn Unhinged Jaw Lion Features as they mix No more marks from injuries Full Horn

Den [Recuse] w/ Skeptic Still has injuries Scuffed up from cave-in Bandages like the Den

Base Opportunist Overall "Appealing" features +Halo +"Healthy" hourglass body "Backstabbing" Sharp wings

Witch Appealing Features Shrink Small vines on ankles and wrists

Thorn Flowers [no thorns if you are nice] Stab wound in flowershape +blood stains look like petals/Center is the stab wound

Wild Mixed with princess No "ill-intent" features [no halo and the appealing wings are sharper] Made of nerves

Wounded Wild Halo becomes princess crown Nerves and heart branding

Hero: Those two look... happy.

Wounded Voices deserve the world <3

Base Paranoid Ruffled Up Few plucked feathers Big "ear" fluff Tired Eyebags Thinning body

[I accidently drew him with long arms and short legs, but I like it]

Nightmare Heart. Lungs. Nerves. markings More Plucked feathers sore through [can't draw it] more eyes to watch for danger

Clarity Nerve Marking turn to stitches Ying Yang Stuff [the whole "The good times will get better when the princess is around"]

Wraith Thinner from starving +stab wound if you use the knife Skillie Look Marking gone

Base Broken Broken pair of wings Plucked feathers Tower Princess crown branding Thinnging enough to see ribs

Tower Wings healed Feathers come back Branding glowers Extra eyes Healthier body type

Fury Wings decay More plucked feathers Fury crown branding Worst health

Apotheosis [If you join her side] Bibically accurate angel eyes Healthy body Fun head wings Crown Branding with eyes

Apotheosis (Fight Back) w/Paranoid No branding No extra eyes Scars stay, but he's healthy and strong

A part 3 is in the works still

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angryducktimemachine · 2 years ago

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Sat down. Opened Autodesk Sketchbook. Blinked. This was there.

[ID: a digital, fully colored drawing of Azu from Rusty Quill Gaming.

She's a dark-skinned Orc with a shaved head and a missing tusk. She's wearing bright pink armor and her right elbow is resting on her axe.

She's laughing and there's a light halo behind her. /End ID]

#rqg #rusty quill gaming fanart #rusty quill gaming #rqg azu #she's so beloved

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silvergarnet12 · 9 months ago

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Splatoon was the first Nintendo game to push me out of my comfort zone of single player games, and with the closure of it's servers I wanted to draw a tribute to a game that really means a lot to me.

Some long rambles about the game under the cut.

When I first played the Global Testfire I was 15, and the only mutliplayer games I played were with friends in the same room.

Splatoon was also the first shooter I ever picked up, as I always liked bright colours over more realistic graphics in my games, and back then the only shooters I knew about were Halo(and that was only really a name to me!) and the CoD games.

Any worries I had about being bad quickly vanished as the sheer vibe of chaotic fun the game had, particularly when no one had played it before, got rid of any worries, and all I remember is having fun. And choosing to play as the guy instead of the girl for the first time, solely becuase I wanted a ponytail like in real life(I would continue to use the guy through the series as a tradition, a contrast to what I saw most people online doing).

When the game came out I binged the single player, and vividly remember the first time I fought DJ Octavio, and the first time I heard Calamari Inkantation. If ever a game was to convince me that a song could irreversibly change your life, it was Splatoon. Because to teenage me, in that moment, with Calamari Inkantation playing in the background while I fought an octupus DJ, it did.

It gave me terminal brainworms for this series. And here I am, 8 yrs later. Older and more tired, been through some shit, had some good times, tried, succeeded and failed in things throughout the years.

I've always been grateful that they made the decision for the player character from 1 to return, everytime they've shown up it's felt a bit like seeing an old friend, especially since as the games time skips have always had them close to my age(which probably helped my attachement back in the first game). So hi Three, can't believe we both probably pay taxes now.

I have the original two Inkling Amiibos, in a collection that is slowly building, I'm still attached to Marie, and yes I was on her team for the Final Splatfest.

I cried when it was over, just like I did in 2's Final Fest(I was team chaos, two for two baby!) and will probably do so for 3's as well. Something about this series just makes me super attached to it's world and characters.

So booyah Splatoon, my final online game of yours was well and truly years ago, but I replayed story mode to share you with a friend recently, and I think I'll refight Octavio tonight in honour of the good times.

You encouraged me to try out games I wouldn't have otherwise(hello Overwatch and Deep Rock Galactic), and outlasted one of the other major games of my teenage years(...Overwatch 1 I miss you). So thank you for that.

I'll miss Squid Jump, Inkstrike, the og kit for the NZap 89(why does it's new one not vibe with me ;-;), the Squid Sister's broadcasts and the more saturated colours. At least I can always return to the Plaza in 3, and that Spyke isn't dead like I was concerned he was when 3 released, and see the Squid Sisters perform during Splatfests again.

I have so much more to say in my heart about you but no more ways to word it.

You've been a fantastic game, and will always be a treasured experience that I am grateful to have been a apart of from the very beginning.

Now bring back Moray Towers in 3 damn it! It's in 2 but I DON'T WANT TO LOSE MY FAVOURITE STAGE IF IT"S NOT IN 4.

#splatoon #splatoon shutdown #my art #wii u #nintendo

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gallaghersgal · 21 days ago

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wintery requests for lip you say 👀 imagine the first time you two see each other after winter break, you went back to your home state for a couple of weeks while he spent time at home instead of the dorms. he tracks your flight and meets you back on campus right as the snow starts to fall, so you head back to your room to snuggle and catch up — he doesn’t want to admit it, but the time away from you was killing him and he’s been dying to get his hands on you for dayssss 😅

MAKING THE READER FROM THE SOUTH BC IM FROM THE SOUTH TEEHEE!! no warnings!! rated E.

your flight lands at midway airport at 4:30pm. the sun creeps closer to the horizon line while you taxi around switching your phone off airplane mode so you can text lip.

you: js landed. see u soon? baby <3: See u soon babygirl

you take a selfie as the rows ahead of you start to stand up and leave, smiling and showing off the sweater you're wearing, one of his. he sends you one back in your dorm bed, your cat pastina snuggled in his lap. you'd left him the key to take care of her over break, your parents didn't know you'd adopted a kitten at school.

once you're in the uber it only takes about 30 minutes to arrive at your dorm. snow is beginning to fall, sun casting a halo behind the buildings as it peeks through the very edge of the clouds. it's setting fast, but lip is there to help wrestle your bags in. once they're under the overhang of your building he draws you back into the snow, kissing your cold lips.

"s-so cold," you pout, in that soft southern tone he loves so much. "was way warmer back home."

lip kisses the corner of your petulant frown, takes your hand, and guides you back inside. he carries your bags himself, setting them down in the elevator and backing you up against the wall. you expect him to kiss you, put his hands up your shirt, but instead he simply buries his nose in your neck. "missed you, baby," me mumbles. his voice is soft, rough, like he truly had suffered without you.

your fingers pet gently through his curls, "missed you too, baby boy."

#lip gallagher x reader #lip gallagher fluff #lip gallagher imagine #maggie's musings [blurbs]#sugar ice and everything nice [winter works]#letters [asks]#secret admirers [anon]

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her-satanic-wiles · 2 months ago

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Kinktober Day 24 - Post Orgasm Torture

Cumulus x Reader

I don’t know how to describe this, but it’s very lesbian.

Masterlist ⛧ Kinktober 2024 Masterlist

Words: 2.6k.

Reading Time: 11 min.

Warnings: multiple orgasms, post orgasm torture, vaginal fingering

Taglist: @akayuki56 @alien-the-ghost @amazing-bobinsky @angellayercake @anonymous-appreciation @babydestinyinfluencer @bitchywitchygardener @blossomsea @call-me-little-sunshine84 @copiaspet622 @copiasslut @cosmixxdust @da-rulah @dolceterzo @dopey-fandom-girl @faithisyours @ghoulishxdelights @hauntedharmonic-ghoulishhaunter @high-above-the-city @howlingco @inkstainedrat @kaijukimchi @kenken-the-shoggoth @ledger-kaos @magopi @megachaoticstupid @meliza1001 @miss-leto @mommy-dust @neganwifey25-blog @piaart @saintbowie @shycardinale @sister-of-sin-claudia @sisterof-sin @sodoswitchimage @the-did-i-ask @xiyingly @zombiesnips-blog

🔞 MDNI 🔞

Your body was still trembling, limbs heavy from the overwhelming climax that Cumulus had expertly coaxed out of you only moments ago. But the satisfaction you had anticipated never arrived. Instead, an insistent pressure was already building again, gnawing at the edges of your overstimulated nerves. Cumulus knew exactly what she was doing. The smug curl of her lips told you that much.

She hovered above you, her fingers trailing with agonising slowness across your flushed skin. They glided teasingly down your stomach, over your hips, and along your thighs—close, but never close enough. A shiver coursed through you as she brushed against the sensitive skin, each feather-light touch sending jolts of sensation through your already overwhelmed body.

“You didn’t think I’d stop after just one, did you?” Her voice was smooth and sultry, laced with a teasing edge that made your breath catch. Her fingers paused at the apex of your thighs, just shy of where you ached for her, her eyes glinting with mischief as you shifted beneath her touch, desperate for more. “Oh no,” she purred, leaning down until her breath ghosted across your neck, sending chills down your spine. “We’re far from done here.”

Your heart thudded in your chest as she kissed a slow, deliberate path along your jaw, her lips soft yet commanding. The overwhelming need coursing through you was almost unbearable, but Cumulus seemed in no hurry to give you what you craved so desperately. Instead, she relished the way you writhed beneath her, the whimpers that spilled from your lips as her hand hovered just shy of your slick heat.

The torment wasn’t just in her touch, but in the way she watched you, her dark eyes drinking in every gasp, every twitch of your body. “I want to see how much you can take,” she whispered, her breath hot against your ear. And with that, her fingers finally dipped lower, brushing over your sensitive core with a touch so delicate it sent a jolt through your entire body.

Your breath hitched as Cumulus shifted her weight, straddling your hips, her bare skin warm against yours. She looked down at you with a smirk, her hair cascading over her shoulders like a curtain, the candlelight casting a halo around her silhouette. Every movement she made was deliberate, designed to drive you mad with need. She was in control, and you were at her mercy.

Her fingers traced delicate patterns over your skin, gliding up and down your trembling thighs with maddening slowness. She knew exactly how to keep you on the edge, drawing out your desperation until it felt like it would consume you. You bucked your hips slightly, hoping to coax her closer, but she merely laughed softly, a wicked glint in her eyes.

“Patience, darling,” she whispered, her voice low and sultry. “We don’t want to rush, do we?”

The words sent a wave of heat coursing through you, the anticipation mounting to an unbearable level. You bit your lip, trying to suppress the whimper that threatened to escape. She was toying with you, savouring every second of your torment, knowing full well how close you were to falling apart beneath her.

With deliberate slowness, her hand dipped lower again, her fingertips ghosting over your slick folds before drawing away once more. The light touch made your back arch off the bed, your body screaming for more, but Cumulus showed no mercy. Her thumb circled lazily over your clit, the pressure just enough to send sparks shooting through your core, but not enough to give you the release you craved.

Your hands gripped the sheets beneath you, knuckles turning white as you fought to hold on. She was relentless, the teasing touches pushing you closer and closer to the edge, but never letting you fall over. You gasped as she pressed a little harder, a tiny flicker of satisfaction blooming in your chest, only for it to be ripped away again as she slowed once more.

“Look at you,” she murmured, her eyes dark with desire as she watched you writhe beneath her. “So desperate. I could keep you like this for hours, you know. Letting you feel just enough to drive you mad.”

Her words sent a shudder through you, and you couldn’t hold back the soft moan that escaped your lips. She leaned down, her lips brushing against your ear, her breath warm against your skin.

“All you have to do is beg,” she whispered, her voice barely audible, but the command was clear. “Tell me how much you want it.”

Your mind was hazy, consumed by the aching need for release. You could feel the tension coiling tight in your belly, your body trembling with the effort of holding back. But she wasn’t going to let you have it, not until you gave her what she wanted.

“Please…” The word slipped from your lips before you even realised you’d said it, your voice hoarse and breathless.

Cumulus smiled, a slow, wicked curve of her lips. “Good girl,” she murmured, her fingers dipping lower once again, teasing the edge of your entrance before sliding inside with an agonisingly slow thrust.

Your whole body jolted with the sensation, your head tipping back as a low moan tore from your throat. But even now, she was holding back, her fingers moving with a languid pace that did nothing to relieve the pressure building inside you. It was too slow, too soft, driving you to the brink but never enough to send you tumbling over.

“You’ll need to do better than that,” she teased, her lips brushing over the pulse at your throat as her fingers curled inside you, pressing against that spot that made your vision blur. “I want to hear you beg properly.”

Your body was on fire, each nerve alight as the pressure inside you built, wave after wave, only for Cumulus to pull back just before you could find relief. Her fingers curled inside you at just the right angle, brushing against that sweet spot with devastating accuracy, but she never gave you enough. You were aching for more, your body trembling under her touch, and the frustration bubbled over into a desperate, breathless moan.

“Please…” you whimpered again, your voice cracking with the effort. It was barely a whisper, but you were too far gone to care. Cumulus’s smirk widened, her lips ghosting over the curve of your jaw as she hummed in satisfaction.

“I know you can beg better than that.” Her fingers withdrew entirely, leaving you gasping at the loss. The emptiness was agonising, every muscle in your body tightening as you arched your hips, desperate for her to fill you again. But she only laughed, soft and wicked, her hand gliding teasingly up your thigh.

The tension coiled inside you like a spring, each tease sending you closer to breaking point. Your hands gripped the sheets harder, your chest heaving with shallow breaths as you squirmed beneath her. You were trapped in that space between pleasure and torture, your body burning for release that she refused to grant.

“You know what I want,” Cumulus murmured, her voice velvety smooth as she hovered above you, her lips barely brushing yours. “I want to hear you beg for it properly. I want to hear how desperate you are.”

Her words sent a shiver down your spine, and though every part of you wanted to fight it, you couldn’t hold back anymore. Your pride was nothing compared to the desperate need consuming you. The control was hers, and you were powerless beneath her.

“Please, Cumulus…” The words were a breathless plea, spilling from your lips as your body trembled beneath her. “I can’t… I need you… please, don’t stop.”

Her eyes gleamed in the candlelight, her lips curling in satisfaction at your surrender. She leaned in, her mouth brushing yours in a soft kiss before she whispered against your lips, “Good girl.”

And just like that, her hand was on you again, her fingers sliding deep inside, but this time there was no teasing. The pressure was perfect, her thumb circling your clit in rhythm with the thrust of her fingers, and you moaned, your head tipping back into the pillow as the pleasure washed over you in waves.

She was relentless now, her movements quicker, firmer, the heat inside you building and building, ready to snap. The tension in your body coiled tighter, your thighs quivering as you felt yourself teeter on the edge of release. Every nerve felt raw, every touch too much, and yet you wanted more.

“That’s it,” Cumulus purred, her voice low and dark. “Let go for me. I want to see you fall apart.”

Her words were your undoing. With a sharp gasp, your body tensed, the tension finally breaking as your orgasm crashed over you in a blinding wave of pleasure. It tore through you, your entire body trembling as you cried out her name, your mind going blank with the intensity of it.

But even as you came, Cumulus didn’t stop. Her fingers kept moving, pressing into you harder, her thumb rolling over your clit with ruthless precision, driving you higher, pushing you past the point of pleasure. It was too much, the overstimulation sending jolts of electricity through your body, making you writhe and gasp for breath.

“One more,” she demanded, her voice like honey as she pressed her lips to your ear. “You can take one more for me, can’t you?”

You couldn’t answer, your body already shaking from the aftershocks of your climax, but Cumulus didn’t need your response. She was determined, her fingers continuing their relentless assault, and even though you thought you had nothing left to give, the pressure inside you was already building again, sharper and more intense than before.

Every nerve felt raw, your body trembling uncontrollably as she pushed you towards another orgasm, the sensation teetering on the edge of pain and pleasure. Your breath came in ragged gasps, your hips moving of their own accord as she pushed you closer and closer.

“That’s it,” she whispered, her lips brushing over your collarbone. “Just one more. I want to feel you fall apart again.”

You couldn’t hold back. The second orgasm tore through you just as fiercely, your body shaking as the pleasure overwhelmed you, your voice hoarse from the cries that spilled from your lips. Tears pricked at your eyes from the intensity, but still, Cumulus didn’t let up, her fingers continuing their relentless pace as you writhed beneath her, barely able to catch your breath.

You were lost, drowning in the overwhelming sensation of pleasure and pain, your body beyond the point of reason. Cumulus’s touch was merciless, her fingers still thrusting deep, her thumb circling your clit with a steady, punishing rhythm. Every nerve in your body was alight, oversensitive and raw, yet you couldn’t stop the way your hips bucked helplessly towards her, as if craving more of the sweet torture she inflicted.

“Look at you,” she whispered, her breath hot against your ear as she kissed the shell of it, her lips sending more shivers down your spine. “Falling apart so beautifully for me.”

Your mind was fogged with the haze of pleasure, unable to form words, unable to do anything but gasp and moan as she drove you to the brink of another release. Each touch was almost painful now, the overstimulation making every sensation feel like fire against your skin. But even as the tears welled in your eyes, you found yourself aching for more. Desperation clawed at you, every fibre of your being begging for release, even though the intensity threatened to break you.

“I… can’t…” you gasped, your voice ragged, barely a whisper as you shook beneath her, trembling uncontrollably.

“You can,” Cumulus murmured, her tone both commanding and gentle. “You will. For me.”

Her fingers quickened their pace, pressing deep into your slick heat, curling inside you in a way that made you see stars behind your closed eyelids. The pressure in your core was mounting again, impossibly tight, threatening to snap at any moment. Each flick of her thumb over your swollen clit sent a fresh wave of electricity coursing through your veins, pushing you closer and closer to the edge once more.

“Cumulus, please,” you whimpered, your voice barely more than a broken whisper now. Your body was shaking uncontrollably, your muscles tensing and twitching under her skilled touch. “I can’t take any more.”

But she only smiled, her eyes dark and filled with satisfaction as she watched you fall apart for her. “Yes, you can,” she whispered, her voice like silk, wrapping around you and pulling you deeper into the haze of pleasure. “One more, my love. Give me one more, and then I’ll let you rest.”

Your breath came in short, ragged gasps as she pushed you further, her fingers unrelenting. You could feel the tension coiling tight inside you once again, and even though you thought you had nothing left, your body betrayed you, responding to her touch with another desperate, burning need.

Each thrust, each brush of her thumb, sent you spiralling, your body teetering on the edge of bliss and agony. You wanted to fight it, wanted to push her away and beg for mercy, but your body wouldn’t listen. You were trapped in the sensation, lost to her touch, completely at her mercy.

“Come for me,” she commanded softly, her lips brushing against your neck, the heat of her breath making your skin tingle. “I want to feel you shatter again.”

And with those words, your body gave in.

The final orgasm tore through you like a storm, your muscles locking as the pleasure crashed over you in violent waves. It was too much—too intense—and you screamed her name as you came, your voice hoarse and broken. Your body convulsed beneath her, your legs trembling uncontrollably as the overwhelming sensation consumed you entirely.

Tears leaked from the corners of your eyes, the intensity of it all too much to bear, but even through the haze of pleasure and exhaustion, Cumulus’s soft, soothing voice reached you.

“That’s it,” she murmured, her hand finally slowing, her fingers easing out of you as your body shook with the aftershocks. “That’s my good girl.”

Your chest heaved with ragged breaths as you tried to come down from the high, your mind hazy and distant, your body limp beneath her. Cumulus pressed a gentle kiss to your forehead, her touch now soft and tender, a stark contrast to the relentless torture from moments before.

“You did so well,” she whispered, her voice low and soothing as she brushed your damp hair back from your face. “I’m so proud of you.”

You couldn’t speak, too drained to form words, but the warmth of her praise settled over you like a blanket, comforting and grounding you as the last remnants of your orgasm ebbed away. She wrapped her arms around you, pulling you close, her body warm and soft against yours as she held you in her embrace.

For a long moment, you simply lay there in her arms, your head resting against her chest, the sound of her steady heartbeat slowly calming the erratic rhythm of your own. Cumulus’s fingers traced lazy circles on your back, soothing you as you basked in the afterglow, your body still trembling but now with the soft hum of contentment.

“You were perfect,” she whispered, pressing another kiss to your temple. “Absolutely perfect.”

Exhausted but satisfied, you let yourself melt into her warmth, your eyelids growing heavy as the last vestiges of adrenaline left your body. You were utterly spent, but in that moment, wrapped in Cumulus’s arms, you couldn’t imagine anywhere you’d rather be.

Prev./Next

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1800titz · 9 months ago

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LADYBUG MAN

“Hello.”

Jana twists her head over her chin and double-takes. There’s a tall man stood at the rear-passenger door of the sun-bleached corvette — presumably, the owner — and her six-year old is staring him down, fingertips mucked up in pollen and the hood of the car coated in naked evidence; trails of sticky fingerprints dragged in lines down the scarlet bonnet.

“I like your car,” she hears her say, and twists to see a twinge of a smile coat the man’s mouth.

“Thank you.”

The door creaks and clicks.

“—Sorry.”

The man glances in her direction as she approaches — lingers in the trail of emerald when she grasps onto Dixie’s hand, half-apologetic and half-amused, dusting the palm of her hand over the pads of the child’s fingers.

“Sorry, she — likes to …touch everything and talk to everyone.”

Jana spares another glance upward.

He doesn’t look like the image her mind had conjured as the owner of the vehicle. Maybe it’s because her brain wasn’t built to draw up a man of his stature from scratch, borrowing figments of stolen faces stowed away. That’s what a mind does, isn’t it? It borrows. Sculpts from what’s already stored and etched into folds of memory. She’d remember a man like him, memoir mirrored and tucked back behind her skull.

It’d go something like this:

Handsome, tall, wide; firm with muscle layered by cotton and denim. Good looking with his clean curls, haloed by the rays of the sun, jade like the evergreen foliage in the distance seated in his sockets. Good looking, despite the silvery knick under his eye, marred tissue sculpted across the cresting apple of his cheekbone. Good looking, despite a thin scar indenting over the slope of his nose. Pocks catch the sunlight and glint back. Most prominently, Jana notes his ear — the left one; swollen, injured cartilage that had been left untreated years ago and settled into a deformity that his tendrils tuck behind.

His mouth exposes nice teeth, straight and ivory, nearly unfitting with his brutishly visible ailments. His massive arm is cradling a crate of tomatoes, nonchalant like the one-handed feat of strength is a casual skill.

“S’alright.”

He’s santalum and cardamom musk, spuming seemingly from his pores — a clean scent that catches on the breeze and traverses, even through the void of empty space between them (a proper two feet, surpassing the respectful six-inches-for-Jesus rule. It wafts in the zephyr). Who are you, mystique. What is your little life?

She’d remember a man like him. Everyone knows every face in the poky expanse of her little county, and this man isn’t familiar.

He sets the crate into the backseat of his convertible, stretching over the boundary of the door, aided in the lack of its roofing.

“Does your car go fast?” Dixie chirps.

The rays bask on the inching of his simper, too, face downcast.

“Not really. It’s a little too old.”

Talc flickers from the bleached leather coating the interior, to the kid, and then up to her mother, where it stays. He peers at the bonnet, tipping his head as he nears it.

“You’ve done some artwork,” the man observes, using that voice utilized with kids — the kind that implies every half-assed attempt is an impressive feat. There’s a lopsided rendition of something decorating his hood, curved lines enclosing blotched stippling. “What’ve you drawn there?”

“A ladybug.”

“A ladybug,” and then, without missing a beat, “That’s quite good.”

Jana eyes him, and then glances down — Dixie beams up at the stranger like he’s hung the moon.

Slowly, he drags a pointed index through the sheath of pollen beside her artwork. His knuckles are firm, callused scarring stretching over every joint; hard like a rigid ballpoint pen coated in flesh. The tip of his forefinger circles and spots. Dots and drags. His eyes flick up, and then back down to the murky artwork. When he takes the pad of his digit away, vermillion shaping through the ragweed sculpts a pair. Two ladybugs, side by side, one to match the other. There’s a lip-sealed smile cresting at his mouth when the man nudges his chin toward the addition, thumbing at the residue over his callused index. Warm, like basking in sunshine.

“There. It’s got a friend now.”

#ladybug man #teaser #just something #:p

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