#this is not the leopard you are looking for

[gicosmo]

Random OP Character Headcanons

Random hcs I’ve been thinking about for like the past two months lol

Luffy: Play fights will turn dangerous real quick. Out of all of the Strawhats, he’s the one you shouldn’t ever think about play fighting with.

Zoro: So bad with directions he has to hold his hands out in an L shape to see which is left and right.

Franky: Has tried to do his hair to make it look like the word “SUPER”. Ended up hating how much gel he was using tho.

Nami: Her and Ussop have self care days. She goes ALL out every time! Face masks, pedicures, full blown hair care. She’ll make sure they have a relaxing day.

Usopp: When the crew reunited, him and Nami bonded over their hair. Will talk about different styles they want to try out, different hair products, even going as far as teaching themselves different hair styles to practice on one another.

Kaido: We all know he’s an emotional drunk. Has cried in front of Yamato about how he thinks he doesn’t love him. (Yamato didn’t gaf.)

Yamato: He’s only sticking to one hairstyle and that’s his ponytail. He cannot for the life of him bring himself to do anything else with his hair. It’s him and his ponytail against the world!

Lucci: Lowkey loves gossip to the point where he uses Hattori. Hattori knows allll the tea. Watch out for the adorable bird, he’s getting insight for Lucci.

Kaku: Loves giraffes so much to the point where he despises the predators of them. Lowkey disliked Lucci for a bit because of his leopard devil fruit.

Mihawk: Hates being called “Dracule”. Mihawk, his full name, or Hawkeyes, or even Mr. Creepy Swordsman will do just fine. But please do NOT call him Dracule.

Crocodile: Made mini sandcastles out of boredom one time in his office when trying to figure out the budget for Cross Guild. Didn’t try it again because Daz almost walked in on him doing it.

Daz Bonez: Turned his finger into a knife so he could cut fruits for himself. Why go out of your way to grab a knife when you can become the knife?

Buggy: We all know he has beautiful long hair. Downside to that lucious hair is that he’s tender headed, especially if someone else is brushing his hair. Will hold his head, flinch away, probably even start crying. His scalp is very sensitive!

Doflamingo: As manipulative as this man is, he CANNOT flirt. He can’t even do it as a form of manipulation. He’s better off dancing like an actual bird to attract a potential relationship(that won’t work either)

Corazon/Rosinante: Unlike his brother, this man can actually flirt! Is a natural at it actually. Only downside is that he’ll get flustered if someone flirts back and end up falling to the ground. (Also headcanon that he definitely slipped on a random banana peel on the floor. Baby 5 put the banana peel there.)

Perona: She actually attempted to try her negative hollow move on Mihawk once. Didn’t get the chance to because a simple glare from him made her rethink her life choices.

Barto: Most definitely has written cute fanfics about the Strawhats. Probably has drawn fanart too.

Ace: Most definitely held a “loudest fart/burp” challenge on the Moby Dick. Whitebeard won

Sabo: Tried swinging his staff around as a party trick. Ended up wacking himself on the head with it. Never did it again.

Marco: If he lived in the modern world he would most definitely binge watch those paternity court videos. Or Jerry Springer and Maury vids.(This is all thanks to Stussy and Weevil. Bro does NOT think that’s Whitebeard’s biological son.)

Shanks: Can handle getting drunk off his ass. Cannot handle getting high, not even in the slightest.

Law: After he got his tattoo, he admired them and wondered if Cora would be happy about him getting them in his honor.

Kidd: Loves eyeliner, HATES mascara. He cannot stand anything on his lashes. Also has a horrible habit of plucking his lashes a bit.

Killer: Has bought those straws that are made into designs. Most definitely has a straw that looks like glasses.

Hawkins: He likes crystals! One of those astrology people. “What’s your zodiac sign? Oh? Gemini? Damn… You’re gonna die.” (Most definitely yelled at Kid for calling Aquarius “Asparagus”)

[leifs-little-luxury-hell]

Look, im all for critizising the democrats. Were in this mess partially due to them. AT THE SAME TIME Id rather have fence sitting dumbasses that do nothing than a dude that is a fucking felon, has stated his hatred for minorities on countless occasions, and was on the fucking epstein flight logs.

In most situations, yes. Having the person who does nothings bad. But when its the choice between "do nothing" and "leopards gang baning everyone with guns and nukes strapped to their sides," you kinda have to go with the do nothing vote.

Don't act like tumblr leftists couldve singlehandedly won the election for Kamala, she had her part in this.

fuck off dude. People like you are the reason I'm so pissed off. "She had her part in this?" Yeah she wasn't perfect but fuck dude she isn't a literal nazi like someone else! It's not just tumblr leftists I'm mad at, I'm mad at everyone who thought that voting 3rd party, a party that's been set up so that it's essentially impossible to win, was better than helping to ensure that a facist, sex offending, russia aggrandizing, insurgence creating, racist, sexist, queerphobic, deteriorating little piece of human garbage doesn't become the most powerful person in the country.

And who the hell asked you anyway? I'm here bleeding my heart out about how fucking petrified I am about what could happen to the people I love and you think this is the best time to send your sassy little message? To really own me? To show off how intellectually superior you are? Well that really shows how much you give a shit about others, doesn't it? Fuck you.

[literaryvein-reblogs]

Writing Notes: Heraldry

Heraldry - is about showing people who you are.

In England, it started in the later 1100s, when knights began to wear helmets, and they couldn't be recognised. So they began to paint unique combinations of colours, shapes and animals, called their 'arms', on their shields and banners. Only one person was allowed to use these arms. When people saw a knight wearing them in a battle or tournament, they could tell who he was.

It is the science and the art that deal with the use, display, and regulation of hereditary symbols employed to distinguish individuals, armies, institutions, and corporations. Those symbols, which originated as identification devices on flags and shields, are called armorial bearings.

Strictly defined, heraldry denotes that which pertains to the office and duty of a herald; that part of his work dealing with armorial bearings is properly termed armory. But in general usage heraldry has come to mean the same as armory.

The Colours of Heraldry

The 5 traditional colours are, with their heraldic names:

Red = Gules

Blue = Azure

Green = Vert

Black = Sable

Purple = Purpure

Plus the two 'metals':

Gold or yellow = Or

Silver or white = Argent

There are also 'furs', the most common being:

Ermine: representing the white winter fur of stoats, with their black tail tips.

Vair: representing squirrel skins, in blue and white.

If something (say a dog or badger) is shown in its natural colours, it's called proper.

Conventional representations of tinctures used when it is not possible to print the actual colors:

Heraldic Ordinaries

Ordinaries - the simple shapes used on heraldic shields, against a colour, metal or fur background. If you are making your own design, choose one of these main ordinaries:

Fess = horizontal stripe across the shield

Pale = vertical stripe down the shield

Bend = diagonal stripe

Chevron = like a house gable, pointing upwards

Cross = a plain cross

Saltire = a 'St. Andrew's cross'

Chief = bar across top edge of shield

Bordure = border round edges of shield

Pile = downward-pointing triangle

You can also divide your shield into two colours, either vertically or horizontally, or into four different-coloured quarters.

You don't have to use an ordinary, but if you do remember to never put a colour on colour or a metal on a metal. Try to remember this heraldic rule: colours don't show up well against colours, or metals against metals. This also applies to charges.

Heraldic Charges

Charges - emblems added to the shield, on the background, the 'ordinary', or both.

There can be one big charge, or several smaller repeated ones. Here are some of the common charges you could use:

Crosses - of many different types

Stars

Rings

Balls

Crescents

Diamonds

Flowers

They can be any colour, but remember never put colour on colour, for example a green star on blue, or metal on metal, for example a white flower on yellow.

Many knights also used animals as charges.

Animal Charges

Any animal - either one big one or several smaller - can be used as a charge. They can be shown in many different ways, for instance:

Rearing up (rampant) - like the lion and the hare in the pictures above

Standing (statant) - like the dog

For birds, with wings outstretched (displayed) - like the eagle

Walking along (passant) - like the other lion

If the animal is looking towards you, it is also guardant or 'on guard'. So the lion in the picture is passant guardant.

The ancient royal arms of England are 3 golden lions, one above the other, walking along on a red shield: or, in heraldic code, gules three lions passant guardant or.

Just to make things more complicated, lions passant guardant are also called leopards - but they don't have spots.

Choosing Your Animal

Animals symbolised different qualities. So for instance:

Lions = bravery

Dogs = faithfulness, reliability

Stags = wisdom and long life

Eagles = power and nobility

Badgers = endurance or 'hanging on'

You could also design your own animal charge.

For instance a cat, horse or other favourite pet.

Or you could choose a fabulous beast...

Fabulous Beasts

Though often used as 'charges', these fabulous beasts never really existed.

But some people believed they did, maybe because they'd heard about them in stories made up by travellers to distant lands, like crusading knights or merchant adventurers. Pictures of them also appeared in 'bestiaries', a popular kind of illustrated medieval story-book.

Here are some you could use:

Dragon: the earliest and most common fabulous beast, also used as a badge by Romans, Anglo-Saxons and Welsh. A brave and cunning defender of treasure.

Griffin: a combination of lion and eagle. Symbolises watchfulness and courage - and also guards treasure.

Cockatrice: a cross between a cockerel and a dragon, supposedly hatched from a cock's egg by a snake or toad. Could kill by looking at you, and symbolised protection.

Manticore or 'man-tiger': a fearsome man-eating creature with a lion's body, man's face, tusks, horns and a deafening trumpet-like voice.

Cadency

Cadency - the use of various devices designed to show a man’s position in a family, with the aforementioned basic aim of reserving the entire arms to the head of the family and to differentiate the arms of the rest, who are the cadets, or younger members.

Heraldic works in the 16th century refer to cadency marks as:

a label for the eldest son during his father’s lifetime;

a crescent for the second son;

a mullet (five-pointed star) for the third;

a martlet (a mythical bird), the fourth;

an annulet (a small ring), the fifth;

a fleur-de-lis, the sixth;

a rose, the seventh; and so forth.

Sources: 1 2 3 4 ⚜ More: Writing Notes & References

[attackurheart88]

hi! I just had this idea of Illumi going to introduce his girlfriend/fiancée to his family, except that she's a spoiled queen bee regina george-ish/cher horowitz like (somehow, they managed to be a couple). Idk really, the image got in my head and I thought it would be funny to see the Zoldycks reaction lmao

When Illumi made mention of his future wife, surprise and disbelief exploded in his family’s eyes. They intended him to follow family traditions and continue the Zoldyck line of course, but when it came to finding a partner the family was sure an arranged match would be needed.

To think there was a woman on this Earth who not only found attraction with Illumi but Illumi himself approved of was a huge shock.

Silva expected the woman to be strong and bear powerful children for the Zoldyck family.

Kikyo believed the woman’s beauty was what attracted her son.

Zeno felt pity for the woman as she must’ve been submissive and easy for Illumi to control.

The traits of being soft-spoken, delicate, graceful, and well-educated gathered in everyone's mind.

But…

A young woman dressed fashionably in black and leopard strutting into the Zoldyck family mansion as if she owned it and Illumi trailing behind holding a cat was far from their predictions.

It took a lot for Kikyo to hold in her anger and not faint at the sight.

“Father, Mother, I’d like to introduce you to my fiancee.”

A displeased grunt from his fiancee and Illumi was quick to add to his sentence.

“And her cat, Cassandra.”

Silva didn’t respond at first. He just stared at Camilla, his steely gaze lingering on her Prada dress, the excessive jewelry, and—unfortunately—the very loud sound of her heels.

Was this the best his son could do? Did he fail as a father somewhere? Perhaps he broke him too early.

You completely unbothered, smiled brightly and stuck out your hand

“It's very nice to meet you Mr and Mrs Zoldyck. You have a lovely home.”

He looked at her hand as though it might bite him, and then—after a long, uncomfortable silence—gave a small, formal nod.

“I’m glad you think so-” Kikyo started.

“But it could be redecorated don't you think?” you continued.

“What?”

Did she just insult the state of their home.

“Black and white is so outdated. Perhaps a shade of red or purple might do. What do you think Illumi?”

“I’ll keep it in mind when building a place for you.”

Silva and Zeno exchanged glances. It was clear this woman found a way to exert control over Illumi. Such a thing was unspeakable. Either she used an ability of some sort or she truly is that influential. It was dangerous either way.

Taking initiative Zeno spoke up. “Are you aware of our families occupation?”

“Of course, you're assassins, right? Illumi has told me all about it. I promise I'm more than able to continue the business-

A pin was thrown in your direction aimed for the neck but you were able to grab it swiftly.

“Is this a gift? It's beautiful. I have a dress in this same color to pair it with,” you explained excitedly while looking over the jeweled hairpin.

Kikyo frowned at her failure to inflict damage.

“How was it the two of you met?” Silva asked wanting to keep things on track.

Illumi glanced at you before answering. “I met her while completing a job. She was arguing with my target and stabbed him in a fit of rage.”

“I see. Was that the first time you’ve killed someone?”

You adjusted in your seat and gave a small sigh of impatience. “Am I the only one who thinks this kind of talk is boring? For such an infamous family I was expecting much more entertainment.” You examined your perfectly manicured nails.

“Honestly you're just like Illumi, Sliva was it? Much too serious.”

Illumi’s lip twitched at the playful jab. Silva's eyes narrowed, but he said nothing.

“What do you do for fun around here? I mean, besides, you know, the whole... killing people thing."

A tense silence followed.

“Nothing?”

“Has anyone ever heard about hobbies? Knitting, cooking, reading, yoga? For such a well-off family one would expect that you should have a spa day once in a while. A family day at the beach. Just relaxing. You know, take a break from all the stabbing."

“Relaxing?” Silva questioned in disbelief.

“Yes. Surely it must be tiring being all serious and stabby all the time. I know a guy who is amazing at massages. I could give you his number. You look like you need one.”

A chuckle could be heard from Zeno.

“You’re rather amusing. I can see why Illumi is so taken with you.”

“I always aim to please, Grandpa.”

Zeno raised an eyebrow at the endearment. But didn't say anything in fact, he seemed rather pleased.

The evening continued that way. Despite the family making plenty of attempts to threaten or test you. You continued to exceed their expectations and bring humor and warmth into the home.

[rubysunnday]

but who could stay?

a/n: i'm erasing colin's 'lover boy' atttidue (or however you describe it) because it was the least colin thing i've seen imo. like, my man travels bc he doesn't want to be the ogling of the ton... anyways

summary: Every time Colin Bridgerton returned from travelling the world, there was always an urge inside him to run away again as soon as he could. There was only one woman who could make him stay. Y/N Barrett waited for Colin, but he never stayed long enough for her to tell him her feelings. Now she is engaged and about to enter a loveless marriage arranged by her parents. All she wants is for Colin to stay in London long enough to realise the truth of their relationship.

✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦

masterlist | tip jar

Every year, after the debutantes had walked in front of the queen, there was a garden party. Open to everyone, it gave the debutantes an opportunity to further make their mark on the ton as well as allowing other attendees to catch up with friends after a few months away from London.

Colin had been away for longer than just a few months. As soon as Anthony had married Kate, he had been on the first ship over to France.

It wasn't that he didn't like London - he did. Nothing would ever compare to his home city - the gas lamps in the November fog, the bright blue skies after days of endless rain.

Yet, he never felt at peace in London. There was always an urge inside him to up and leave. To travel as far away as he could and not stop until he fell off the edge of the world.

Perhaps it was fear of comitting to a life in one place. Perhaps he was just trying to escape the future that had been planned out for him since he was born.

Perhaps, he had yet to find a reason to stay.

Now that he was back in town, the urge to leave had resurfaced once again. Everywhere he looked, women were staring at him, debutantes were waving and gaving him coy smiles.

Colin awkwardly smiled back and then promptly turned around. He always felt uncomfortable when the attention suddenly became solely on him. He wasn't entirely sure why - he liked women and he liked flirting - but when every woman in the ton came at him at once, it felt predatory.

He knew they were only interested in him for his money (or what he had left of it) and his name. None were interested in Colin the Explorer or Colin the Writer.

Except one.

"Colin!!" Y/N Barrett exclaimed, her eyes lighting up as he walked toward her. "You are back at last!" She reached up and wrapped her arms around Colin's neck, pulling him in for a tight but quick hug. "You could have told me!"

"Apologies," Colin said, smiling at her as she stepped back. "I only just made it back in time for Francesca's debut."

Y/N's gloved hand trailed down his arm. "I am glad you are back," she told him, squeezing his hand once more before letting go. "It has been dull without you."

"Anything exciting happen whilst I was gone?" Colin asked, offering his arm to Y/N - a silent invitation to promenade around the gardens.

"Well, Alice Carey got married to Lord Carlson and then promptly gave birth to a son about four months later." Y/N raised her eyebrows at him. "Easy math there."

"Indeed," Colin muttered. "Has anyone called her bluff yet?"

Y/N shook her head. "No, she has been 'unwell' the last few months and has yet to reappear amongst the ton." She tilted her head to Colin and lowered her voice, "but rumour says she is pregnant yet again... with another man's baby."

"Has Lady Whistledown written of these rumours?"

"You and I both know she will not," Y/N replied with a quick roll of her eyes. "Not only had she not been seen since last season, she has changed her column entirely and now writes exclusively in support of the debutantes! I do not understand how you can go from writting rumours and scandal and causing the public downfall of several well known figures to... well, promoting other women!"

"Perhaps she has had a change of heart," Colin suggested.

"Leopards rarely change their spots, mon ami," Y/N said softly. "Anyway, enough about scandal and rumour," she extracted her arm from his and turned to face him, "how are you?"

Colin stopped walking. He looked at her, her gentle smile, her bright eyes. "I am... okay."

"Just okay?" Y/N asked, her brow furrowing slightly.

"I want to leave again," Colin admitted quietly. "Already, women are staring at me and eyeing me up as if I am their dinner. It makes me incredibly uncomfortable, to be honest. I know that all they want is Colin Bridgerton and not just Colin."

Y/N gave him a sympathetic smile. "Does it help that I am only interested in Colin?"

Colin found his lips curving up into a smile. "It does," he told her, "more than I can say. Which reminds me."

He reached a hand into the pocket of his coat - a coat that Hyacinth had kindly nicknamed his 'pirate coat' - and pulled out a dark velvet bag pulled taught by a silver tassel. Colin held it out to Y/N and she took it with her lilac gloved hands.

"You bought me a present?" Y/N exclaimed, holding the bag as if it was glass.

"I did not want you to feel left out," Colin said, his smile widening as Y/N stared in awe at the bag.

"Colin, it's beautiful!"

"Oh, the bag isn't the gift," Colin said quickly. "The gift is inside the bag."

Y/N's cheeks burnt with embarrassment. "Oh, yes, of course."

She carefully pulled open the bag and turned it upside down, tipping whatever was inside into the palm of her hand. Out tumbled a pair of silver embroidery scissors, engraved to look like a bird.

"Oh, Colin, they're gorgeous," Y/N whispered. "Where did you find them?"

Colin's smile grew. "A shop in Spain. They had other types but... well, they were different."

He had to confess, he was utterly delighted at her reaction. He knew Y/N loved her embroidery - she had endless baskets of thread and material and often sat in the park working on her current project. For his birthday, Y/N had gifted him a hand embroidered waistcoat featuring different birds and flowers from across the globe. Colin had taken it with him on his travels, wearing it as often as he could.

So, when he had seen the little embroidery scissors in the store, he knew he head to buy them. He had carried them around for six months and now, finally, they were in her hands.

"I have needed new scissors for a while," Y/N told him, her eyes still focused on the scissors. She gently turned them over in her hand, the metal glinting in the sunlight. "Thank you, Colin."

A voice interrupted the moment, carrying across the garden. "Y/N, my love."

Y/N looked over her shoulder, giving the man who had called her name a smile.

"Who is that?" Colin asked, looking at the man - who was signifcantly older than Y/N.

Y/N sighed as she turned back to face him. "Mr Catesby. The man I am courting," she told him softly. "Mama set us up. I have been out for three years and she expected me to be married in year one and having a baby by year three."

She was trying to smile but Colin could see that it didn't quite reach her eyes. "Do you love him?"

"I do not think love is possible," Y/N told him, glancing over her shoulder again. She turned back to Colin. "Friendship, perhaps but never love."

Silence fell around them for a moment. All Colin wanted to do was reach out his hand and hold hers. But he knew he couldn't. This was how it would be from now on - always near his side but just out of reach.

"I should go," Y/N said softly. "Thank you, again, for these. I will cherish them, I promise."

Y/N turned around and, with one last glance over her shoulder at Colin, walked toward Catesby and her future with him.

Colin couldn't look away. He knew he should because, really, what was staring going to do.

Y/N didn't look happy or sad as she stood next to Catesby, putting her arm through his. Whilst she smiled and laughed, none of it reached her eyes. She was pretending and Colin was the only one who could tell.

"You have to look away at some point," Francesca said softly, appearing at his side.

Colin swallowed heavily. "I know."

Francesca reached down and held his hand gently. "Why won't you?"

"I don't know," he eventually replied, forcing himself to look away and at his younger sister. He forced himself to grin at her. "Come along, I'm hungry."

Days turned into weeks and soon Colin hadn't spoken to Y/N for over a fortnight. He had seen her across the room at parties and balls, always at the side of Catesby.

Even though she wasn't happy, she still looked beautiful. Her dresses shimmered in the candlelight and when she did laugh, Colin could just picture her smile along with it.

Ever since he had found out she was being courted, Colin had retreated into himself. He spent long hours in his study, writing and drawing and wondering about what could have been.

His heart broke that little bit more the night of his mother's ball when Catesby announced their engagement. Y/N had smiled, sparkling under the lights once more in a dark blue gown and matching silk gloves. But Colin knew better. He could see how tense she was, how loosely she held Catesby's hand in hers - the way her eyes kept straying over to him.

Benedict and Anthony flocked him as they approached to give their congratulations. They bowed together and Colin was grateful that his brother's did all of the talking - speaking loud enough and quick enough so that neither Catesby nor Y/N's parents noticed Colin's silence.

Y/N did, though. She held his gaze the entire time and there was so much sadness within it, so much regret, that Colin nearly ripped her from Catesby's grip and pulled her to his side, threatening the man with a duel if he dared come closer.

Instead, he maintained his silence, giving a brief bow when they were finally dismissed. Colin refused to look back, focusing his gaze on the table of lemonade and sweet treats jutting out from the far wall.

"Colin, are you alright?" Benedict asked, raising his eyebrows slightly at his silent brother.

"Yes, why would I not be?" Colin said, picking up a glass of lemonade from the table.

"You are being unusually sullen and silent," Benedict replied.

Colin turned around to face his brother. HIs gaze flittered past him and over to Y/N. "Nothing's the matter."

Benedict caught Colin's wayward gaze and turned his head. His own gaze softened a little as he turned back to his brother. "It isn't too late," he said quietly.

Colin laughed humourlessly. "Really? She is an engaged woman, Benedict."

"Were you even around last season?" Benedict raised his eyebrows. "Anthony almost married someone else entirely - he got as far as the altar, Colin."

"That was different?"

"How so?"

Colin let out a frustrated sigh. "Because it just was. Who is to say Y/N would even be interested in my hand?"

"Who's to say she wouldn't?" Benedict looked at his brother. "Answer me this. Every time you come home, you immediately have the urge to flee again. Do you still have that urge when you're with Y/N?"

The silence that followed answered Benedict's question perfectly, Colin knew that. He eyed his brother. "I cannot do that to her, Benedict. I cannot."

"Well," Benedict sighed, "you are a better man than me, brother." He squeezed Colin's shoulder and turned to go, leaving him alone by the refreshment table.

Colin looked over at Y/N again. She had moved and was now walking onto the dance floor, hand in Catesby's. It hurt him more than he was prepared to admit. Yet, it would be so easy to walk over to her and take her hand from his - to confess all his feelings in a flurry of words and doe-eyed expressions. But the scandal that would cause - the ramfication's that could have on Y/N... Colin couldn't do that to her.

It would also be easy to simply walk away, leave the country and pretend he had never met her. Colin knew that nothing he did would ever mean he could forget her. He thought about her everywhere he went, from the churches of Florence to the waters of Athens.

Colin groaned quietly. He tilted his head back and swallowed the rest of the lemonade in a big gulp, wincing at the bitter taste. He set the cup down on the table and stepped away from the wall.

Weaving through the crowds, he spotted his eldest brother standing by the open french doors, Kate by his side. Colin heistated for a second, not wanting to darken Anthony's door with his issues. But the last time he had struggled with issues of the heart, he had given him some startlingly clear advice and he needed that again.

"Colin!" Kate exclaimed, her eyes lighting up as he approached. She pulled her arm from Anthony's and hugged Colin tightly.

Colin squeezed her back as hard as he dared, knowing Anthony was watching his every move like an over-protective swan. "How are you?" He asked, reluctantly letting go.

Kate puffed out her cheeks, hand straying to her stomach. "Coping," she replied. "He, however," she nodded at Anthony, "is not."

"I am allowed to be stressed," Anthony muttered, hand resting against Kate's waist. "It is very overwhelming, but exciting," he added, noting his wife's worried look.

Colin instantly felt guilty. He knew Anthony was overwhelmed. Trying to run the household, keep an eye on Francesca and Eloise all whilst being concerned for his wife and unborn child was more than enough trouble.

"What's wrong?" Anthony asked, noting Colin's distant gaze.

"Oh, nothing," Colin told him with a shake of his head. "Sorry, I should -"

Kate reached out and grabbed his hand by the wrist, pulling him back to them. "Colin, stop." She gave him a gentle smile, cupping the side of his cheek with one hand. "Come, let's go for a walk."

Kate put her arm through Colin's and let him lead her out into the gardens of Bridgerton House. It was still daylight, though the sun had descended. A few couples stood around the grass and patio but it was otherwise quiet.

"I assume this is about Y/N," Kate said, pulling her purple silk shawl tighter around her arms.

Colin nodded, leaning against the stone balustrade. He crossed his arms, a heavy sigh escaping him. "I do not know what to do. I should have stayed, made my intentions clear but I did not and now... now I do not know."

Kate pushed herself up and onto the balustrade, sitting on top of it, her feet dangling down. "What is your heart telling you to do?"

"To steal her away from him and marry her tonight," Colin admitted. "But I cannot do that."

"Why not?"

"Because she is engaged. I cannot bring that scandal to her, Kate, I just..." Colin closed his eyes. "What if she does not return my feelings and I ruin her one chance at marriage?"

"But what if she does?" Kate said softly. "What if she does return those feelings and she spends the rest of her life with you rather than a man she does not love?"

Colin looked at her. "Can I take that risk?"

"Anthony and I were plagued by scandal last year," Kate said quietly, hand resting on her slightly swollen stomach. "Things should never have gone as far as they did but it did not stop us from finding our true happiness. If you want her, Colin, then go and get her. She is right there, waiting."

Five minutes later, Colin was back inside the house, searching everywhere for any sign of Y/N.

He still wasn't sure if he had the courage to tell Y/N the truth. Whilst he knew she wasn't happy, happiness was a minor issue when it came to marriage. The status and money Catesby would give her was more than Colin could ever hope to offer in a lifetime.

But he could give her happiness and he could give her love. Surely, that was worth something?

Yet, as he stood against the landing wall, watching Kate and Anthony waltz together, he knew what he had to do.

Y/N stood by herself, near the table laden with food. Colin spotted her as soon as he walked down the stairs. She wore a dark green gown, one that matched his jacket perfectly.

He tried to approach her first thing but his mother grabbed his arm and whisked him off in the opposite direction, gabbling at him about eligible women and debutantes and flowers.

Y/N had noticed Colin as soon as he'd walked in the room. His jacket matched her dress and all she wanted to do was approach him and ask him to take her far away from here.

She was overwhelmed with wedding preparations and plans for her to move to Catesby's estate in Dorset. Her mother had not allowed her a moment's peace. Sleep refused to come at night and Y/N lay awake, regret and panic growing inside her as the date of her wedding grew ever closer.

The engagement had been a shock. Y/N herself had not actually spoken the word 'yes' aloud, her mother had done that for her. She had blindly followed along, allowing Catesby to place the ring on her finger and brag to his friends that he would soon be a father.

A father. Never mind a husband or a man in love. Just a father.

Because, whilst he was not a bad man, all Catesby wanted was a son to continue his line. That was all Y/N was to him, all this relationship was to him - making an heir.

Y/N had known this marriage would never be one built on love. But a foolish part of her had hoped that, maybe, they would find love together. Seeing Catesby now, flirting with other women and bragging to his friends, she knew that there would never be love.

She plastered a smile to her face as yet another person approached her to congrulate her on her engagement. Exhaustion was beginning to pull at her body, the sleepless nights and endless trips to the modiste finally catching up with her.

"You could at least try and look happy," her mother muttered, suddenly appearing beside her.

Y/N sighed softly, blinking the pull of sleep away. "Sorry."

"Honestly, when was the last time you slept, you look dreadful."

Thank you, mother Y/N thought, trying not to roll her eyes.

"I need you to look beautiful for this wedding," her mother continued, "there is a lot riding on this marriage for this family. Do not mess it up. Ah, Lady Cowper!" Y/N's mother crowed, rushing over to greet her friend.

Y/N needed to leave. She glanced around the room, checking that everyone was preoccupied and then made a swift dart for the corridor running behind the stairs. The room had been warm when she'd walked in but it had only gotten hotter in the hours since. Her head was aching, her heart was pounding and her hands would not stop shaking.

She didn't know what had come over her. There was no reason for her to be acting like this - all she was doing was getting married. But there were so many things wrong with the marriage and with Catesby and with her mother's obsession of wanting a grandchild that Y/N could not go through with it.

The corridor was quiet and signifcantly cooler than the ballroom. Y/N leant her back against the wall and took a deep breath in, desperate to calm herself down and reinstate her happy facade.

"Y/N."

Of course, Y/N thought, turning her head and watching Colin Bridgerton approach her. Of course he appears now.

"Colin, I do not -"

"I have to talk to you," Colin said firmly, coming to an abrupt stop at her side. "Please."

Y/N closed her eyes. She felt sick. The pounding in her head was only getting worse and she couldn't remember the last time she had eaten anything.

"Please, Y/N, I beg -"

"Yes, alright!" Y/N exclaimed, silencing Colin. "Come with me."

She led him back up the stairs - not an abnormal sight since many guests had seeked solace in the front room of Bridgerton house - and down the corridor into an empty room.

"Colin, whatever you want to say to me, please make it quick," Y/N told him, pushing him into the room and pulling the door to. "I cannot disappear from my own engagement party for long."

"You do not love him."

Y/N frowned at Colin. "I told you this earlier -"

"Just... say it again."

"No, I do not love him," Y/N told him, her voice soft. "But that does not mean I can walk away from this marriage."

"What if you had someone else to walk to?" Colin asked, moving toward her.

Y/N stared at him. "Colin, what do you... why..."

"The reason I travel, Y/N, is because I have never felt at home anywhere," Colin said. He took a deep breath in, steeling his nerves and forcing himself to not back down. "Every time I came back, I would have the urge to run away again until I reached the edge of the world. But each time I came back and I saw you, I suddenly felt as if I finall had a reason to stay."

Y/N felt as if all her air had been stolen from her. She stared at Colin - that was all she could do. Here he was, confessing his heart to her and all she could think about was how angry her mother would be, how much scandal it would cause and also how much the room was beginning to spin.

"I could not let you go off into this marriage without giving you a choice," Colin continued, moving a step closer. "I love you, Y/N, I have done for a long time. I wish that I had not spent so long away because maybe things could have gone differently. Perhaps this would be our engagement ball instead. Perhaps it still can be.

"I know that this is asking a lot of you and I know that with this choice scandal will come. But I will stand by you through it all, Y/N. No matter what the ton say, no matter what they do, I will not leave your side. You deserve to be happy and you deserve the right for this to be your decision."

Y/N looked at Colin. Hope was clear as day in his eyes. She had wanted this confession from him for so long and here it was. The circumstances were awful and scandal was calling and her parents would hate her and the ton would give her the look they reserved only for the worse offenders and -

"Y/N? Are you alright?" Colin asked, concern replacing the hope in his eyes. Her skin had lost colour dramatically quick and she was beginning to sway.

Y/N swallowed, nausea growing. She blinked, looking past Colin and at the window. No, that too was spinning.

"Is the room spinning for you?" Y/N asked, her voice quiet.

Colin frowned. "No. Is it for you?"

"A little," Y/N admitted. "I think I might need a moment."

She took a step forward but the room tilted dramatically to the side and hazy black spots filled her vision. Y/N mentally braced herself to hit the carpeted floor and for her body to ache but hands wrapped around her waist, guiding down.

Colin knelt on the floor, resting Y/N's back against his chest. He was never great when it came to dealing with poorly people - his siblings could attest to that. He himself was a terrible patient, incapable of waiting until he was better and always pushing himself before he was ready.

But this was Y/N - his Y/N. Her skin was clammy and lacking colour and her hand was shaking as she tried to grip his. And he had no idea what to do.

They couldn't simply stay in here, someone else might walk in and then there would be a whole other scandal.

Then, an idea came into Colin's head. There was one place he knew no one would stray into. One place that would shield them for just a little longer.

"Come on," Colin whispered. "I've got you."

He put one arm around her shoulders and slipped his other under her legs, lifting her up into his arms. With one foot, he nudged open the door. The upstairs corridor was quiet. Colin snuck out, keeping his footfall as light as he possibly could.

His bedroom wasn't far away. In fact, it was only three doors down the corridor. As he pushed open the door, Colin thanked his past self for forgetting to close the door properly.

It was cooler inside than it was anywhere else in the house. His windows were open, the net curtains blowing gently in the summer breeze. A small fire crackled in the hearth, giving off enough light to chase away the darkness.

With as much care as he could, Colin lay Y/N down on his bed, laying her head on his pillow. He absently brushed his fingers along her cheek as he straightened and her eyes slowly opened, looking up at him.

"Has the room stopped spinning yet?" Colin asked, sitting on the edge of the bed, his hand resting against her leg.

Y/N hummed softly. "Partly," she told him. "I still feel awful."

"When was the last time you ate?"

"I do not remember," Y/n replied. At Colin's raised eyebrows, Y/N let out a tired sigh. "Mama has kept me so busy and I have hardly slept these last few weeks. Oh, Colin" she said, her head finallycatching up with what had just happened, "I can only apologise for -"

"Do not be silly," Colin told her, reaching up and taking her hand in his. "Our bodies can only handle so much."

"But fainting? That is just... mortifiying!"

Colin chuckled. "When I was in Spain, I fainted in the middle of dinner with a very important noble because I had spent too long in the sun and not looked after myself. My face was bright pink and sun burnt and I felt awful for days after." He shook his head, laughing softly. Colin squeezed her hand. "What I am saying is that we all forget to look after ourselves sometimes. You have a better reason than me, however."

Y/N pushed herself up, letting Colin pull her forward until she was sat cross legged on the bed. He kept a steady hand on her upper arm until she gave him a reassuring smile, confirming that she wasn't about to spontaneously collapse again.

"If this engagement is making you this unwell," Colin said quietly, "is it worth it?"

Y/N sighed softly. She rubbed the pad of her thumb back and forth across Colin's knuckles. "No, it is not."

"Then what is holding you back?" Colin asked. He leant his head forward, seeking her gaze. "Tell me."

"I am scared," Y/N admitted with a small shrug, looking down at the bed. "I am scared of the consequences that will come with calling off this engagement."

Colin gently tilted her chin up until she was looking at him. "What else? Because there is something else, I can tell."

Y/N swallowed heavily. She closed her eyes for a moment. "My mother is determined to make this work," she said softly, opening her eyes again. "She keeps reminding me about how much is riding on this marriage, the things it will do to our family. I am terrified of her reaction if I do not go through with it. What if my family disown me? That will be an even bigger scandal than calling off the engagement!"

"What if she does not?" Colin suggested. "What if everything falls into place?"

Y/N shook her head. Her eyes were glistening with tears as she looekd at Colin. "But what if it doesn't?" She asked quietly, her voice almost lost to the night air.

"Then I will stand by your side no matter what," Colin replied, taking both her hands in his. He held them as if they were the most precious things in the world - because they were. "No matter what happens, you will always have me and you will always have my family, I promise you."

Uncertainty still lingered in Y/N's eyes. Colin knew he was asking much of her but she deserved a happy, loving marriage with someone who loved her. She desered to have a choice.

"You deserve to be happy, Y/N," Colin said softly. "Do not ever think otherwise."

"You promise to stay?" Y/N asked, her voice quiet and small. She looked at him. "Because, every time I thought I was ready to tell you I loved you, you disappeared, Colin. Then, I wouldn't see you for months and... I cannot do this if you are going to leave me again the moment we are married."

Colin leant forward and pressed a kiss to her forehad, his right hand holding the back of her neck. "I promise," he whispered, leaning his forehead against hers, "to never leave you again. Together until the end of our days."

Y/N smiled at that, relaxing into Colin's hold. "Okay," she said, her voice certain for the first time all night. "Are you going to ask me, then?"

Colin released her and stood up from the bed. He moved over to his desk and pulled out a drawer, rumaging through it until he found what he was looking for.

"I picked it up in Florence," Colin said, coming back over to the bed. "Because I had decided that when I got back, I would take your hand as mine. I thought for a moment I would never get to do this but..."

He trailed off, looking up from the ring box. Y/N was still sat on his bed, her smile slowly growing. Colin clicked open the lid and knelt down on one knee, extending the box out to her.

"I know I left and for that I am deeply sorry," he said quietly. "It took me this long to realise that you were my reason to stay. So, Y/N Barrett, will you do me the honour of becoming my wife?"

Y/N nodded, her smile reaching her eyes and crinkling the corners. "Yes," she whispered, holding out her left hand, "of course I will."

Colin pulled the golden band out, the moonstone set in the centre catching the light of the fire. He slipped it onto her finger, pleasantly surprised to discover that it fit perfectly.

"Perfect fit," Y/N said, holding her hand up. She looked back at him. "It is as if it knew."

Colin grinned. He took her hand in his, thumb trailing over the ring. "Perhaps it did."

[lynnettys-world]

CALM AFTER THE STORM |BTS OT7 X READER| HYBRID AU (M)

{Chapter Fourteen - The Acts Of Power}

Pairing: OT7 BTS!HYBRID X FEM!HUMAN READER

Kim Namjoon: Black Mackenzie Valley Alpha wolf

Kim Soekjin: White Alpha Lion

Min Yoongi: White Alpha Jaguar

Jung Hosoek: Alpha Snow Leopard

Park Jimin : Alpha Albino Cobra

Kim Taehyung: Alpha White/ Bleached Tiger

Jeon Jungkook: Alpha Black Panther

Reader: Heaven Valentino Human

Status: Ongoing

RATED (M) FOR MATURE

words: 4.9K!

WARNING: EVENTUAL SMUT, BLOOD GORE, DETAILED GRAPHIC DESCRIPTION, ABUSE (ALL FORMS), PROFANITY, VIOLENCE, MENTIONS OF SUICIDE, CHARACTER DEATH(MINOR), SADOMASOCHISM ACTS, MENTIONS OF BDSM, ETC...

CHAPTER WARNING: This chapter includes degradation and hate. (Mild/non-triggering)

Previous Next

MATERIALIST

Jungkook's POV

The evening sun hung low in the sky, casting a warm glow through the large windows of our home. It was time for a celebration, and nothing felt more appropriate than a lavish dinner to mark Heaven's recent success.

As I walked down the hallway, the excitement buzzed in the air like static electricity, each of us gearing up for the evening ahead.

I stepped into my room, glancing at the mirror as I began to pull on my tailored suit. The fabric felt luxurious against my skin, the deep black color reflecting my inner strength. I buttoned the crisp white shirt beneath, adjusting the collar to sit just right.

The jacket was a perfect fit, tailored to accentuate my lean muscles, giving me an aura of confidence that I hoped would carry through the night.

After securing my watch, I ran a hand through my dark hair, tousling it just enough to look effortlessly stylish. I felt a spark of pride as I glanced at my reflection—a fierce black panther ready to take on the world.

I heard a commotion from down the hall. Namjoon Hyung's deep voice rumbled, echoing through the house, accompanied by Jin Hyung's melodic laughter. I couldn't help but smile, knowing that my brothers were just as eager to make an impression tonight.

I made my way towards Jin Hyung's bathroom, where the sounds of shuffling and playful banter greeted me.

Inside, Namjoon Hyung stood in front of the mirror, adjusting the lapels of his midnight blue suit. The rich fabric clung to his muscular frame, emphasizing his broad shoulders and imposing stature. With his black shirt and a silver tie that sparkled like stars, he looked every bit the alpha wolf he was.

His expression was serious, but a flicker of excitement danced in his eyes

"Ready to show these humans how it's done?" He asked, a smirk playing at the corners of his mouth.

"Always," I replied, throwing him a wink as I grabbed my phone, snapping a quick picture of the moment to capture the anticipation we all felt.

Jin Hyung stepped out from behind the door, his appearance immediately stealing the spotlight. The white lion had chosen a tailored cream suit that highlighted his soft features and golden mane. His shirt was a light pastel pink, contrasting beautifully with his warm skin tone, giving him an almost ethereal glow.

He ran a hand through his hair, a playful grin on his face as he admired his reflection.

"I'm definitely winning 'Best Dressed' tonight," Jin Hyung announced with an exaggerated flair, posing dramatically before us.

Hoseok Hyung entered, fashionably late, his suit a crisp white that highlighted his lean frame. The fitted jacket hugged his shoulders perfectly, and the subtle silver accents in his tie and cufflinks added a touch of elegance.

He flashed a charming smile, his energy contagious, "You all look fantastic! Let's make them remember us."

In another room, Tae-Hyung was already clad in a stunning black tuxedo. The jacket was adorned with intricate white diamond patterned strips that echoed the stripes of his tiger form.

He turned to us, his playful demeanor radiating confidence as he posed in front of the mirror, showcasing the fitted pants that accentuated his long legs. "Aren't I just the definition of fierce?" he asked, winking at himself.

As we made our way downstairs, we could hear Jimin Hyung's laughter echoing from his room. When he emerged, all eyes turned to him, our charming albino cobra hybrid. His sleek black suit was complemented by a striking silver shirt that gleamed under the soft lighting.

The contrast made his pale skin almost luminescent. His hair, styled perfectly, framed his face, enhancing the striking features that made him look every bit the enchanting seducer he was.

"What? You all thought I wouldn't look good?" he teased, a playful smile tugging at his lips.

Yoongi Hyung entered last, his aura cool and detached, embodying the essence of a white jaguar. His all-black suit was minimalist but incredibly sharp, matching his enigmatic persona.

The way he carried himself exuded confidence without arrogance, a blend of power and mystery that was impossible to ignore. His gaze flickered to us, a small smirk on his face as he assessed our attire, "Are we ready to make a scene?"

With a collective nod, we headed towards the door, the anticipation building with every step. The soft hum of the car engine greeted us as we climbed into the vehicle, the plush leather seats enveloping us in comfort.

As we approached the restaurant, the shimmering lights reflected off the glossy facade, illuminating the entrance like a beacon. The lavish exterior promised an evening of luxury, but we were more than ready to step inside.

The car doors opened, and as we stepped out, I felt the eyes of the world on us. The night air was cool against my skin, invigorating and electrifying. We moved in unison, heads held high, confident and proud. This was our moment.

As we entered, the atmosphere shifted. Conversations faded as the patrons turned their attention towards us, whispers echoing through the opulent space.

The murmurs carried a mix of shock and disdain, the uncomfortable recognition of hybrids dressed in expensive suits, striding through the realm that had always considered us beneath them.

I could feel the tension in the air, a tightrope stretched taut between us and the humans around us. Namjoon Hyung led the way, his presence commanding respect, while I felt the subtle shifts in our group—the way Jimin Hyung clenched his fists and Tae-Hyung's posture tightened.

"Table for Eleven under the name Heaven Valentino," Namjoon said confidently to the maître d', who stuttered slightly as he gestured for us to follow him. Our footsteps echoed on the marble floor, each step a declaration of our defiance against the prejudices that surrounded us.

The restaurant was a tapestry of elegance, with lavish chandeliers hanging overhead and plush seating that screamed opulence. We were seated at a large table adorned with crisp white linens and glimmering glassware, the perfect setting for our celebration.

As we settled in, I could see the humans around us casting wary glances, some with overt disdain.

My heart raced with an unfamiliar mix of exhilaration and tension.

Tonight was not just about celebrating Heaven's success, it was a chance to defy the societal norms that sought to belittle us.

The tension in the air was palpable as we settled at our table, the rich aroma of gourmet dishes swirling around us. But it wasn't just the food that filled the space, it was the heavy weight of judgment and disdain from the surrounding patrons.

I could feel their eyes on us, dissecting our every move as if we were a spectacle meant for their amusement.

At first, I tried to ignore it, focusing on my brothers and the camaraderie we shared. But as I glanced around, I caught sight of a group of wealthy humans at a nearby table, their laughter hollow and mocking. I could see their sneers, the way their lips curled in disgust at our presence.

They were used to having hybrids on leashes, conditioned to view us as mere possessions, and now that we stood before them—dressed impeccably and exuding confidence—it made them uneasy.

"Look at them," one man sneered, loud enough for us to hear. "Dressed like they own the place. Pathetic."

I clenched my fists under the table, my instincts urging me to respond. But I held back, waiting to see how my brothers would react.

Author's POV

The atmosphere shifted dramatically as the comments echoed around the restaurant, the hushed whispers rising into a crescendo of derision. It was a blatant display of arrogance from those who thrived on the suffering of hybrids.

One particularly pompous figure, dressed in a tailored suit that screamed entitlement, stood up from his seat, pointing a finger at the boys.

"You think you can just walk in here, acting like you belong? Fucking lab rats" he spat, his face twisted with contempt. "You're nothing but glorified pets. Know your place!"

The tension in the room was electric as the boys exchanged glances. Jungkook, Namjoon, and Taehyung stood tall, their expressions calm yet fierce. An invisible line had been drawn, and they were ready to defend their dignity.

"Do you really want to test that theory?" Taehyung replied, his voice smooth and dangerously low, a chilling calmness radiating from him that seemed to fill the space. The air grew heavier, and even the humans nearby felt the shift, their bravado faltering.

The man's eyes flickered with uncertainty, but he quickly masked it with arrogance. "What are you going to do? You don't even deserve to sit at this table!"

His friends chuckled nervously, but there was an underlying tension that suggested they recognized the brewing storm.

Namjoon leaned forward, his expression shifting from calm to predatory. "Careful who you mess with. You might find that we're not as easy to handle as you think."

The words hung in the air, thick and charged. The man's bravado cracked slightly, the glimmer of fear seeping through his facade.

The scent of his anxiety wafted through the air, and Jungkook, ever attuned to the nuances of emotion, could feel it. The other hybrids picked up on it too, their predatory instincts kicking in.

Suddenly, one of the man's friends, emboldened by liquid courage, pulled out a taser, the metallic glint catching the light.

"Let's see how tough you are when you're shocked," he taunted, taking a step forward, a smirk plastered on his face.

Before Jungkook could react, Yoongi's instincts kicked in. With a swift movement, he rose from his seat, eyes narrowed, and lunged forward, knocking the taser from the man's hand in one fluid motion. The device clattered to the floor, and the air became thick with tension.

"Try to touch him again, and you'll regret it," Yoongi warned, grabbing the man by the collar and dragging him against the wall with surprising force.

The sound of fabric tearing and a gasp of shock echoed in the room, silencing the chatter. The fear was palpable as the man's friends stepped back, shock replacing their bravado.

"Is this how you treat hybrids?" Yoongi's voice was low and menacing, sending chills down the spines of those watching.

"With violence and humiliation? You have no idea who you're dealing with."

The man's face paled as he realized he had crossed a line.

"I—I was just joking," he stammered, trying to maintain some semblance of pride, but his voice wavered, betraying him.

"Jokes can cost you," Jin interjected, stepping forward to stand beside Yoongi, his gaze steady and unwavering. "Especially when they involve us. We are not toys for your amusement."

The tension crackled in the air, a storm ready to unleash itself. Namjoon, standing close by, kept a watchful eye on the situation, ready to intervene if things escalated further.

Just then, the door swung open, and Heaven entered, her presence instantly commanding attention. With her brothers—Andre, Marcus, and Dante—flanking her, she cut an imposing figure, radiating authority and strength.

Her elegant dress flowed around her like liquid silver, the fabric hugging her curves and accentuating her stature.

"What the hell is going on here?" Heaven's voice sliced through the tension, sharp and unyielding. Her eyes darted to Yoongi, still gripping the man's collar, and then to the rest of the group, assessing the scene.

The atmosphere shifted as the people around realized who had just entered the fray. There was an immediate fear that rippled through the crowd, they knew Heaven was part of an influential family, her connections far-reaching.

The rumors of her empire—powerful enough to make anyone rethink their actions—echoed in their minds

"Let him go, Yoongi," she commanded, her tone leaving no room for argument. There was a simmering intensity in her gaze as she turned to the trembling man. "You should be careful about who you pick fights with."

The tension in the room hung thick, but the boys remained grounded beside her, their collective strength pulsating through the space. Heaven's brothers took their positions, ready to protect her and their family, the bond they shared unbreakable.

The man, realizing he was in the presence of people untouchable, released a shaky breath, his pride crumbling under the weight of Heaven's authority.

"I—" he began but faltered, his words dying in the air.

"Consider this a warning," she said, her voice steady and unwavering. "If I hear about any of you mistreating my boys again, you'll have more to worry about than your pathetic jokes."

The remaining patrons watched in awe, the sight of Heaven standing her ground an example of her power and resolve. The air was thick with drama, suspense, and the undeniable tension that had now become the backdrop of the evening.

After the tumultuous confrontation, Heaven strode confidently to their reserved table, a serene smile adorning her face. The boys, still buzzing from the earlier encounter, settled back down, the tension dissipating like mist in the sun.

The surrounding patrons, many still in shock or hurriedly leaving the restaurant, faded into the background as Heaven's calming presence filled the space

"Sorry for the disruption, boys," she said sweetly, her tone light and playful as she took her seat beside Jungkook.

"I hope you didn't scare them too badly." Jungkook smirked, his confidence renewed. "Maybe they deserved it," he replied, his eyes twinkling mischievously.

"It's not every day someone gets dragged against a wall by a hybrid."

"Or threatened by a white jaguar," Yoongi added, a hint of pride in his voice. "You should have seen the look on his face. It was priceless."

Heaven chuckled softly, her laughter brightening the atmosphere. "You boys certainly know how to make a statement. I'm proud of you," she said, her voice filled with warmth.

Dante, leaning back casually in his chair, interjected with a cheeky grin. "Just wait until you see how we dance after dinner. That'll really blow their minds.

"Oh please, no," Jimin laughed, feigning horror. "The last time we danced in public, we nearly broke the floor."

"Hey, that was a one-time thing!" Taehyung protested, his eyes gleaming with mischief. "And it was just a little enthusiastic."

"Just a little?" Namjoon shook his head, a teasing smile on his lips. "More like a lot, and I'm still recovering from the embarrassment."

As the waiter approached, they placed their orders—exotic dishes that showcased the rich flavors of Italian cuisine. Heaven made sure to order something special for each of them, her thoughtful nature shining through as she asked about their preferences.

"Alright, but if you get anything with extra cheese, I'm going to judge you," Jungkook teased, poking Taehyung with a playful nudge.

"I'm not ashamed of my love for cheese!" Taehyung shot back, grinning widely.

"Just remember, you'll need to bring the breath mints," Heaven chimed in with a playful wink, and the table erupted into laughter, the camaraderie palpable.

Amidst the banter, Marcus leaned in, his expression suddenly serious. "You really showed them, sis. I'm glad you were there and that the guys stood up for themselves."

"Of course, me too" she replied, her smile softening. "I'll always have your backs, no matter what. Just like you boys." She glanced around the table, her eyes shining with affection.

After their orders were placed and the conversation flowed freely, the laughter echoed around the table, blending warmth with the remnants of tension from earlier. They shared stories, light-hearted jabs, and laughter that was bright enough to overshadow any lingering tension.

As their meals arrived, Heaven clinked her glass against the others. "To family," she declared, her voice steady and firm.

"No matter what we face, we'll face it together."

The boys echoed the sentiment, their voices blending harmoniously. "Together," they chorused, raising their glasses.

Once dinner wrapped up and they quickly left and headed back home upon arriving, Heaven felt a buzz in her purse, signaling a message from her assistant, Jay.

"Boys, I need to step away for a moment. Please excuse me," she said, excusing herself to her room.

The boys nodded, understanding her need for privacy. Heaven took the elevator to he room, her heart racing as she answered the call.

"Jay, what's going on?" she asked, her tone shifting from light-hearted to businesslike.

Meanwhile in the living room, the boys lounged comfortably, the mood still buoyant. "So, what movie are we watching?" Jungkook asked, leaning back and stretching his arms.

"Something scary, I hope," Taehyung replied, his eyes glinting with excitement. "I love a good scare!"

"Only if you promise not to scream and bleed our ears out," Jimin teased, nudging him playfully.

"I make no promises," Taehyung shot back, grinning widely. "You should be grateful if I don't jump into your lap!"

Yoongi rolled his eyes, a smirk playing on his lips. "Yeah, right. You'd just want to take the whole couch for yourself."

"Just admit it, you're all scaredy-cats," Jungkook teased, crossing his arms and leaning back in his chair.

As they bantered and debated their movie choices, Heaven stood in her corner, her attention entirely on the call, ready to tackle whatever news Jay had to share.

Heaven's POV

The moment I excused myself, I could feel the weight of the night pressing against my chest. The boys' laughter still echoed behind me, a sweet reminder of the calm we'd managed to create amidst the chaos. Yet, as I raised the phone to my ear, my serene facade tightened, bracing for what was to come.

"Jay," I greeted, my voice steady, though my pulse quickened. "What have you found?"

"It's not good news, Heaven," Jay replied, his tone grim. "We've identified another player in the kidnapping. It's someone close enough to make a move without drawing too much attention."

"Who?" My voice dropped, dangerously quiet. The calm before the storm.

"Park Jisoo." Jay's words were like a blade, sharp and cutting.

"She's behind it. We've confirmed her involvement."

I clenched my jaw, my fingers gripping the phone tightly. Park Jisoo. A spoiled, entitled brat who thought her wealth and connections made her untouchable. My mind flashed with memories of her, her arrogance, her constant need to flaunt her power and money that didn't even belong to her.

In a different scenario I wouldn't even pay attention to her not only, is she beneath me but I respect her even less. Like I said I don't tolerate nonsense.

But the fact that she dared cross me by touching the ones dearest to me she had another thing coming.

"Understood," I murmured, keeping my voice cool, though inside, a storm brewed, raging and relentless. "Thank you, Jay. Keep me updated."

"Will do. And Heaven... be careful," Jay cautioned before hanging up.

I lowered the phone slowly, inhaling deeply to steady myself. The rage simmered beneath my skin, but I couldn't let it show. Not yet. Not here. My boys didn't need to see this side of me tonight. They'd been through enough.

I took a moment to compose myself, smoothing out my expression I quickly changed and made my way downstairs. By the time I returned, the boys were still chatting, their energy contagious.

"Everything alright, Heaven?" Marcus asked, his eyes flickering with concern.

"Perfectly fine," I lied effortlessly, a smile gracing my lips. "Just some business I had to attend to."

As I approached, the youngest three—Jungkook, Jimin, and Taehyung—immediately sprang up, their eyes lighting up with playful competition.

"Move aside, Tae-hyung!" Jungkook declared, lunging toward the couch. "I get to sit next to her this time!"

"Not a chance, you spoiled panther!" Taehyung shot back, throwing an arm around my shoulders protectively. "She's mine."

"Oh, please," Jimin chimed in, slipping to my other side. "You two couldn't handle being her favorite."

I laughed softly, shaking my head at their antics. "Boys, there's enough of me to go around," I teased, settling between them as they jostled playfully for space.

Namjoon, watching from his seat, smirked. "You three are hopeless."

"And jealous," Yoongi added, his tone dry but amused.

"Don't worry, you're all my favorites," I assured them, patting Taehyung's head affectionately. "Now, can we focus on the movie?"

They finally settled down, each finding their spot around me. Jungkook leaned his head against my shoulder, while Jimin rested a hand lightly on my knee. Taehyung sprawled out, his legs draped over the armrest.

"Alright, let's get this movie started," Hoseok said, grabbing the remote.

As the opening credits rolled, the room filled with a peaceful warmth. The earlier tension felt like a distant memory. I allowed myself to sink into the comfort of their presence, the storm within me temporarily quelled by their light-hearted banter and laughter.

The movie played on, but my mind lingered on Jay's words. Park Jisoo wouldn't get away with this. The storm within me would find its release, but not tonight. Tonight was for them. My boys. My family.

For now, I'd keep the darkness at bay, holding onto the light we'd fought so hard to reclaim.

~One Week Later~

A week had passed since the tense dinner, and life had settled into a comfortable rhythm. Today, the house was quiet, the boys scattered in their own spaces. With no meetings or pressing obligations, I found myself in the kitchen, deciding it was the perfect day to spoil them with a homemade brunch.

The gentle rhythm of chopping vegetables filled the room, the scent of fresh herbs and sizzling bacon wafting through the air. I hummed softly to myself, enjoying the rare tranquility.

Just as I reached for another tomato, strong, warm hands slid around my waist, pulling me back into a firm chest.

I froze for a heartbeat, feeling the heat of his breath against my neck. His scent was unmistakable—musky, with a hint of something sweet. Jimin.

"Good morning, sweetheart," he murmured, his voice low and velvety, sending a shiver down my spine.

"Jimin," I whispered, my breath hitching as his hands tightened slightly on my waist. "You startled me."

His chuckle was soft, almost predatory. "Sorry, I couldn't help myself." His lips brushed lightly against the sensitive skin of my neck, making my pulse quicken.

I tried to focus on the task at hand, the knife trembling slightly in my grip. But Jimin wasn't making it easy. His hands roamed slowly, tracing gentle circles on my waist. His nose buried into the crook of my neck, inhaling deeply.

"You smell... intoxicating today," he whispered, his voice a delicious mix of teasing and something darker, more primal.

I swallowed hard, my mind swirling with conflicting emotions. This was Jimin—the same Jimin who would pout when I didn't give him enough attention, who would beam like sunshine when I called him "honey." But today, there was an edge to him, a simmering intensity that made it hard to breathe.

"Jimin," I managed, my voice trembling. "We can't... I'm trying to cook." He hummed softly, his lips grazing the shell of my ear.

"You're tense, Heaven. Let me help you relax." His teeth nipped lightly at my earlobe, making me gasp.

I turned quickly, placing my hands on his chest to put some distance between us, but he didn't budge. His dark, dilated eyes locked onto mine, a smirk playing on his lips.

"You're blushing," he observed, his voice dropping to a whisper. "It's... cute."

"Jimin," I warned, though my voice lacked conviction. "What's gotten into you today?"

His smirk widened, and he leaned closer, his lips inches from mine. "Maybe it's just you, sweetheart. You're hard to resist."

I opened my mouth to respond, but a sudden voice from the doorway shattered the moment.

"Well, this is cozy," Yoongi drawled, his tone dripping with amusement. "Didn't mean to interrupt... whatever this is."

I jumped back from Jimin, my face heating as I turned back to the counter, pretending to focus on the vegetables. Jimin, completely unfazed, chuckled softly, the sound vibrating in my chest.

"Just helping Heaven with breakfast," Jimin said smoothly, his voice dripping with casual charm.

He called me Heaven not Noona. Jimin freaking called me by name!

Yoongi raised an eyebrow, a knowing smirk tugging at his lips. "Right. Looked more like you were about to devour her."

I busied myself with the chopping, my hands trembling slightly as I tried to shake off the lingering heat from Jimin's touch. Behind me, I could feel his gaze burning into my back.

"I'll get the plates," Jimin offered, his voice still carrying that teasing edge. As he moved past me, his fingers brushed against mine, a fleeting touch that sent a spark shooting up my arm.

I dared a glance up at him, catching the mischievous glint in his eyes. He winked, his smirk deepening before he turned away, leaving me flustered and breathless.

What the hell was that?!

The rest of the morning continued in a blur of casual banter and playful teasing, but my mind kept drifting back to those few stolen moments in the kitchen. The tension between us lingered, unspoken yet palpable.

As I served up the brunch, I couldn't help but steal glances at Jimin, my thoughts tangled in the memory of his touch, his words, and the way he'd made me feel. There was more to him—more to all of them—than I had ever dared to explore.

And somehow, I knew this was only the beginning.

Author's POV

The kitchen buzzed with life as the boys filtered in, one by one, drawn by the tantalizing aromas and the promise of a homemade brunch. Heaven, though still a bit flustered from her earlier encounter with Jimin, managed to maintain her composure, slipping into her role as the heart of their home.

Jungkook appeared first, his hair still damp from a shower, ruffling it lazily as he sniffed the air.

"Something smells amazing," he said, his eyes lighting up as he spotted the spread on the counter.

"Yeah, it's called effort," Yoongi quipped, entering with a smirk and a lazy stretch. "Maybe you should try it sometime."

Jungkook rolled his eyes, grabbing a piece of fruit from the counter. "I do plenty, thank you very much."

"Like what?" Taehyung teased, sauntering in with his usual grace. "Sleeping in until noon doesn't count."

"Exactly," Hoseok chimed in, his sunny grin brightening the room as he grabbed a plate. "Kookie, your talents are truly unparalleled."

"Leave him alone, guys," Heaven interjected, a fond smile playing on her lips. "He helps in his own way.

"Jungkook shot her a grateful look. "Thank you, Noona. At least someone appreciates me."

"Only because you're the baby even though you're older than her," Namjoon teased, ruffling Jungkook's hair.

As the teasing continued, laughter filled the room, a warm, comforting sound that echoed through the house. They gathered around the table, passing dishes, sharing stories, and savoring the rare moment of peace and joy.

"Remember the time Taehyung got stuck in that tree?" Hoseok asked, his eyes sparkling with amusement.

Taehyung groaned, covering his face with one hand. "Do we have to bring that up every time?"

"Yes!" Jimin laughed, nudging him playfully. "It's a classic. You were up there for hours, and we had to call Heaven to get you down."

Heaven chuckled, remembering the scene vividly. "You were so stubborn, Tae. Refused to admit you needed help."

"Because I didn't!" Taehyung protested, though his grin betrayed him. "I was... observing the view."

"Sure you were," Yoongi deadpanned, drawing more laughter from the group.

As the day unfolded, they drifted through the house, enjoying each other's company. They played games, shared more stories, and basked in the warmth of their bond. Heaven watched them with a content heart, feeling a deep sense of gratitude for these moments.

But as the sun began to set, casting long shadows across the floor, a quiet tension settled over her. The laughter and lightness of the day couldn't erase the weight of what she knew—what she was planning.

Later that evening, as they lounged in the living room, Heaven found herself lost in thought. The boys were sprawled across the couches, watching a movie, their laughter still echoing from earlier jokes. She glanced at them, her heart swelling with affection.

But beneath that affection was a simmering determination.

Her mind drifted back to the conversation with Jay, the name whispered over the phone—Park Jisoo. The shedevil who dared to touch what was hers. Heaven's smile remained soft, but her eyes darkened, her thoughts a sharp contrast to the warmth around her.

Her fingers tightened slightly around the edge of the couch as she stared at the screen, not really seeing the movie but instead plotting her next move. The world saw her as a calm, composed heiress, one who ruled with an iron fist, but they didn't know all about the storm brewing beneath.

They would soon learn.

As the night wound down and the boys started to drift off, one by one, Heaven stayed awake, her thoughts a swirling maelstrom. She glanced at each of them, their peaceful faces, and silently vowed to protect them, no matter the cost.

Her lips parted slightly, and in the quiet of the room, her thoughts whispered the chilling promise she carried in her heart.

"They've taken from me once. Never again."And with that, she leaned back, closing her eyes as the weight of the day settled over her, the darkness of her resolve a stark contrast to the warmth that had filled their home.

•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•

Hey there, lovely readers!🌸

Sorry for the super delayed update, life has been a rollercoaster lately. I've been neck-deep in adjusting to a new country, getting into the swing of school, and mastering those crazy class schedules because, yup, I'm studying abroad! 🌍

I've been low-key freaking out about this chapter, but hey, it's finally here. 🎉 It might be a tad shorter than usual, but I hope it still leaves you hanging and hungry for more. 😊

I had a mini existential crisis thinking I lost my writing mojo, so I'm crossing my fingers you guys feel the balance. Did I hit the sweet spot with this one? Let me know your thoughts! 🤔

Oh, and that little steamy scene, did it make you blush? 😘 I know you've been rooting for some tension between the boys and Heaven, and trust me, there's more where that came from. Slow burn is the game, but I couldn't resist sprinkling in a dash of heat as a peace offering for the late update. 😉

Big love and gratitude to all you fantastic readers. Your support means the world to me, seriously. 🌟Thanks a ton for sticking around and showing love to my work. Y'all rock my socks off! 💫💗

Smooches and bear hugs to each one of you! 💋💕

Your eccentric and incredibly drained Author-nim💕🥲

Please don't forget to like and comment!

TAGLIST OPEN!

TAGLIST: @strxwbloody, @strawblueberrys, @taetaeheart22, @canarystwin, @drenix004 , @ghostlyworld, @loumin908, @rinkud, @nikkiordonez12, @taekritimin123, \\@mnguyeeen7, @danielle143, @welcometomyworld13, @avadakadabra93, @kiaralynn3838, @sugathy, @anaspectoflife, @juju-227592, @mygagustd93(I can't tag you)

[san-fics]

Happily Married

Felinette, 18+

(upcoming on Ao3, chapters 8-9 are published on Patreon)

Art credit @aspenaspid, original Tumblr post.

_______________

“Ladybug... you can't just… uh...” Chat Noir was saying quietly somewhere behind her, either unsure if she would even react to his words, or simply taken aback by her behavior. “He's actually married…”

The last part made Marinette come to her senses a little, because the fact that she was kissing her husband and the fact that Chat Noir saw her kissing Felix who was married were, it turns out, two completely different things... And when did the gossip about Felix's marriage even reach her partner?!

Ladybug tore herself away from Argos with difficulty, and the way he moved after her, trying to trace her retreat—eyes still closed and swollen lips open, as if wanting to continue the kiss and not noticing any obstacle—almost made her forget about her partner again, because the idea that Felix Fathom was so lost while kissing her that he didn't notice anything around him was very, very tempting, and Marinette wanted to prolong the moment of this surprisingly pleasant, and not at all destructive, power over him.

“You… can consider that you… passed the interview…” she muttered looking at Argos, her breath still knocked out by the emotional kiss. “We’re accepting you into the team.” Marinette couldn’t say why exactly she said that, but she was trying to return at least some normality to the situation. Besides, Argos managed to be on patrol and in a fight with an Akuma, so her words made some sense... probably...

“That… was his interview…?” Chat Noir asked, stunned. “Can I be re-hired too…?” He muttered under his breath, as if to himself.

Argos finally came to his senses and stepped back from her, turned to Chat Noir and smirked. “Sorry, you’re not my type. So not gonna accept you into the team with a kiss.”

Felinette Tag list (ask me to join)

@mochegato

@thepapillonnoir

@snow-leopard-777

@loves-books

@turiankitty

@toodaloo-kangaroo

@readingismyoxygen

@aespades

@starlightshield

@jessigurl-design

@trippingovermyfeet

@apasponsor

@avs17

@fangirlingfanatic

@psychicdelusionwerewolf

@ur-beautiful-when-u-smile

@spicemallow

@kking13

@frieddonutsweets

@miraculous-panic

@ateneagirasol

@its-maemain

@unoriginalmess

@achaoticmess1

@starfire21

@peachayim

@starling218

@iloontjeboontje

@jennifer-rose123

@a-slytherinish-gryffindor

@wegetitethan

@jacimari

@hammalammadamdam

@rosewood1sedona

@rosesandsailboats

@soap-lady

@queens1234

@cafedeagua

@lizslibrary

@jdcarmelo

@jaykii1195

[pyramultimuse]

Sephiroth whipped his head around when his future mate spoke from behind him and the shifters looked at each other and to their leader with uncertainty when the pack leader said they could speak up. So the snow leopard did for them. "I believe you have our best interests with joining your pack, but it seems like there are some who think they have gained new servants or simply see them as beneath them." He explained carefully as he chose his words wisely.

"They do not wish to name anyone and cause further conflict between you and those who disagree. This is all very sudden for both sides, you take in outcasts but taking a whole clan will take some time adjusting. There's nearly fifty of us I believe ranging from children to elderly, thats very different than the collection of fighters, rogues and outcasts that your pack is made up of." He explained to the werewolf and nodded to those that are coming to fetch the caravan to lead and he would stay back and walk with Thayne.

"They're scared, have some patience to earn their trust." Sephiroth said softly as they brought up the back of the group as they left and headed down the trail. "Maybe when we come back you have a private meeting with your pack? These families aren't what you normally take in from what I've seen, since they can't fight your pack is looking for other ways to use them and getting angry when they refuse."

Thayne was ready in a short while and got outside. With his hearing, he caught some of their displeasure and also noticed the look on his future mate’s face. Thayne growled and then approached, but kept his head cool as in a way he could understand they didn’t like how things were going to be, but they had to accept it. His pack could have killed them instead, but Thayne spared them in trade for joining them. Their leader uniting with him.

“We’re not going to bully you and if it does happen, you need to tell me so I can take care of it. Yes, I choose my mate and that makes everyone who falls under him become a part of my pack. That doesn’t mean I’m going to mistreat any of you or tolerate anyone for trying to make your new home miserable…” He crossed his arms and looked at each one. “Now please, collect your things and bring them back… I’ll stay at a distance, but I’ll be there…” There was an annoyed edge to his voice, hearing them like that, seeing Seph like that.

[readmarkclippastecollage]

[ink-the-artist]

Rabbits

Some bonus art, I initially started making this in a totally different art style but changed my mind about halfway through lmao, here are the parts I finished

[monobani]

some Maria outfit variations I did for fun because I miss her leopard print :'>

[gunsatthaphan]

4 boys, 1 braincell 😌🧎🏼‍♀️

[gi11ua]

missed yall

[throwbackgaylor]

may 24, 2020 | four years ago

killing eve aired its 7th episode of season 3 which featured a cover of ‘look what you made me do’ by jack leopards & the dolphin club

the band and cover was created by taylor, austin, and jack so that the show would have the rights to use it

[naffeclipse]

Psst

Psst, it's me again 😎

THE Y/NS!!!! AHHHH ALL OF THEM!!! I love this so much--and Humpback Y/N holding the Photograph and Harpy Y/N!!! Ahhhh, devouring this art!!!

Thank you so much for sharing! ❤️

[varlime]

Small cub encounters the king of the permafrost

(Surprise visit/adoption)

Frigid Cacao Cookie does not belong to me once more, he and the au he comes from belongs to @cuppajj