#those kind of jobs weren't as prominent as they are these days i think when i was in school in the early early 2010s

[crownedinmarigolds]

Talking to my parents about my little art side-hustle as I'm collecting tax information, and it's so nice to see them very excited for me. Although my dad keeps saying to try and pursue it full time but I do NOT think I could do that with a little one relying on me to have a stable career. It's still super nice to be supported and believed in that hard. T_T

[lightlycareless]

How would Naoya and Y/N parent a child that would struggle in such a harsh clan like the Zen’in? Maybe a kid that’s really soft and sensitive, maybe crybaby or just a real anxious kiddo ^-^

Hello!

Aww... this was the perfect opportunity to explore more of Y/N's and Naoya's second kid, Naori. While Naomi is all emotive and exciting, Naori is a bit more demure, even shy. But I won't say much, I'll let you read it instead.

Warnings: none. fluff. you and naoya are married and have 2 kids. slight references to this oneshot over here.

Happy reading!

To have another child after so many years should've been a blessing. A moment to cherish with all your heart: because once surpassing your fears that plagued your first pregnancy, your family grows once more, a step closer to what you always dreamed of, with the addition of this beautiful baby boy named Naori.

Naoya, simply ecstatic to have more kids with you, was overjoyed at his arrival; though a part of him was also happy to finally have a boy in the family, nonetheless, he swore to love him unconditionally and equally as his sister.

And Naomi, on the other hand, was enamored by him the moment you broke the news, quickly envisioning all kinds of things the two would do once in her arms; even if she had to wait a bit longer before she could be able to do much, she was still happy to have become an older sister all around.

But, the day Naori was born, even when perfect, you and Naoya knew things weren't to be easy for him. Such things were never promised when part of the sorcery community, less with a family as difficult as the Zen'in...

Yet, even if Naomi had gone through quite a few struggles herself, this fact was far more prominent on him. Perhaps it was Naori's shy demeanor that made you believe so, a calmness to contrast his sister’s fiery determination, alongside a weaker constitution once again compared to his predecessor…

And while this obviously meant nothing to you and Naoya, finding absolute perfection all around him, on the little boy that looked just like your husband but with some features here and there that hinted at your likeness...

The Zen'in just saw a disappointment.

"He isn't strong."

"He lacks determination."

"A son, but a coward."

"We will never have a decent heir at this rate."

You and your staff had done an adequate job of keeping Naori away from these awful comments as soon as they were spat out, create an environment where he could feel safe and loved, reassured that in his beloved one’s eyes, he was nothing but wonderful…

Some still managed to get to him, especially those that tended to compare him to his sister; clearly done with the intention of creating discord between the two, just as had occurred between his father and siblings.

The Zen’in were sneaky, attacking your poor son when neither were available and weaponizing the only other person that did her best to keep him safe as well: Naomi.

It was clear they intended to corner him out of a twisted, sick reason—and the worst part of it, is that it was starting to affect him.

You’ve lost count of how many nights you’d check on Naori just to find him silently sobbing.

But one thing you were adamant about: you had enough.

“Naoya, we need to do something now.” You firmly declare; you couldn’t wait for his return, quickly grabbing your phone and calling him for a much-needed discussion. Careless if he was in the middle of a mission: your family came first, always. “I don’t think I can see our son crying again!”

Naoya already felt unbearably inadequate to be a father thanks to his own insecurities, so to realize he hadn’t been as proactive when it came to taking care of you and his babies… well, let’s say he wasn’t particularly proud of it either.

After his absence at Naori’s birth, he promised to be far more present in their life, make up for all his mistakes with Naomi and do better this time around.

But he fails, because his job has become far more aggravating, constantly demanding more and more out of him now so that his father is getting older and he’s not able to keep up with all the things he used to back in the day.

It hurts him like you have no idea, to hear your anger, your son’s sadness, and not be able to do anything about it—miles away, busy in some stupid mission, when he could easily be by you7r side and support his family.

Yet, if he keeps allow this… then his vows to you would’ve meant nothing? His commitment to his family, his daughter and son, void?

Is this the father they deserved? The example he’s going to set as leader of the clan once it’s his time?

…

No. That, he will not. If he wants to make a change, he’ll do good in taking your advice and act now.

The topic of moving out of the estate has been frequently touched upon in the past, but ultimately put aside in favor of the comforts living with his family would oblige: with a staff at your beck and call, all you needed to worry about was taking care of the kids. Not even money or food was to enter your worries—as long as you remain there, your life was essentially set.

Which is what you could also get back in your home too, some would argue. However, you knew what a relationship with the heir of the Zen’in entitled, and after much discussion, you agreed to take this much frightening step of being future Lady of the Zen’in—because that’s what partners do.

Naoya ought to live up to that.

“What do you mean you’re leaving, again?” Naobito scowls; whenever his son is out of the estate he’s quickly pestered by the elders, fretting about how his actions reflect a poor, undesirable heir and that he should be stricter with him to avoid the demise of the clan. But truth to be told, Naobito had long stopped caring about the future, all that he worried about was the present and making the most out of it, which is all he was able to do anyways at his age…

“My family isn’t happy here, not that I expect you to understand what either are.” Naoya frowns. He was just being courteous for your sake, but if it were up to him, he would’ve left without a word.

“You’ll come crawling back to this place anyways.” Naobito bets. “You always do.”

“Perhaps when you’re dead.” Naoya promises, and with that, the transition to the previous apartment the two lived in was effectuated immediately.

You never thought you’d come back to this place, at least not through the unfortunate matters that led you here to begin with, but you were ultimately fine with it. In fact, what worried you the most was the probable discomfort your babies would have to such drastic change.

But thankfully, though a bit saddened by her departure and leaving behind your staff and aunties she was greatly fond of, Naomi took this situation with great optimism, excited to see her new room and decorate it however she desired—Hello Kitty is always the theme to go—and show it off too.

Yet Naori on the other hand, didn’t find the same things thrilling. Because no matter the number of toys you’d give him in hopes of distracting him, or other countless activities to complete, Naori still couldn’t shake the feeling that he was the culprit behind it all—growing more and more guilty and responsible for his family’s alleged demise as days went on.

“Is it because of me?” Naori quietly asked his father, Naoya staying behind to help unpack the last of his items while you and Naomi went out to get food. “Did we move because… of me?”

“Hmmm, well, if you put it that way… I guess so.” Naoya teases, Naori frowns, feeling even worse. “I was just joking, Naori. If I’m being honest, it was getting kinda boring back there, wouldn’t you agree?”

“No… not really. Mama and Naomi-nee always made sure I was never bored.”

“Yeah, that sounds like them, alright.” Naoya chuckles. “And that’s how it’ll continue to be here too, because we want nothing but your happiness.”

Words of encouragement that were intended to make him feel better, reassure him that as much as things seem to change, he’d always be their priority.

But for a dismayed child… there was still a long road ahead before he could completely accept this truth. In the meantime…

“I’m sorry papa…” Naori murmurs, tears beginning to pool in his eyes and making Naoya’s heart tighten.

“Ah, Naori—why are you apologizing? You hadn’t done anything wrong.”

“You’re not upset with me?” Naori asks, and Naoya smiles. Because how could he ever? For whenever he sees Naori, it’s like looking into a mirror, a reflection of how he used to be when he was younger—only that he never had the courage to express his feelings. Nor anyone to protect him.

He knows better than anyone else what it is to grow under the scrutiny of the Zen’in, which set him on a path of arrogance and hatred that would’ve defined his existence if he hadn’t met you.

But just because he went through those awful things doesn’t mean his family had to experience them too. Naoya promised to make the difference, even when you didn’t necessarily agree with his methods from time to time.

Be the father he never had.

“Don’t tell mama I said this, but my family can be real idiots.” Naoya begins, Naori gasps at the bad word.

“Papa, you can’t say that!”

“I know, I know—but that’s what they are, really.” Naoya shrugs. “They don’t know how to be nice, and I’m sure they’ll probably die if they somehow do manage to be. It’s always been like that, too, ever since I was a kid.”

“What do you mean, papa?” Naori asks.

“Let’s say I’ve been in your shoes.” He reveals. “I know what it is to be undermined by your own family.”

“But you— you’re strong and amazing!” His child exclaimed, surely his papa must’ve been held in a much higher esteem, right?

“I am, but I’ve long stopped caring about what they think and focused instead on what mama, Naomi, and you say.” Naoya grins, ruffling the top of his head. “As long as you keep thinking of me as your amazing dad, I can manage.”

“I wanna be strong as you too.” Naori longs.

“You don’t have to be like me, you’re already perfect.” Naoya then proceeds to press his fingers on his sides, incessantly tickling him until Naori is nothing but a laughing mess, leaving behind all his sorrows and smiling for what seemed the first time in days.

“Stop, papa!” he giggles, trying his best to release his father’s hold from him, to no avail. “I don’t wanna anymore!”

“Only if you promise me to ignore their words.” He responds. “And always remember that your mama and I love you very much.”

Naoya will always deny having any kind of favoritism, and objectively he doesn’t, he genuinely loves all his children equally and greatly; but after today, upon learning that the two had far more things in common than expected, little Naori earned a special place in his heart.

I've come to the same conclusion a thousand times: the Zen'in estate is not the best place to have a family. Like, the only way I see our favorite family back there is when Naoya is finally leader of the clan and makes a lot of changes. But even then... ugh.

Anyways, I think I've found Naoya's favorite kid lol even though he says that he isn't. I don't mean it for them to have any, but I guess they connect better with each kid differently—Naori is the one that reminds Naoya the most of himself when he was younger, that's all.

Anyways, I hope you enjoyed this small piece 🥺 thank you so much for waiting and sending in this ask!! I've been wanting to write more about little Naori and this gave me the right excuse hehe.

Take care and hope to see you soon!!

[thera-daydreams]

INDAY

± A Trese Fic ±

[Crispin/Basilio/Maliksi/Dominic x Skymaiden!Reader]

01: Noon at Ngayon (✓)

02: Ang Kambal na Anak ni Datu Talagbusao, Diyos ng Digmaan (Link)

03: Ang Prinsipe ng Mga Tikbalang (Link)

04: Ang Pinuno ng Mga Aswang (Link)

05: (Link) 06: (Link) 07: (Link)

01: Noon at Ngayon

Back then, long before you were born, your mother used to work as a katulong of the Trese Family and was very close to its matriarch, Miranda Trese. Coming from the province, she was no stranger to superstitions—even more so after knowing the work of Miranda's husband Anton Trese, who was actually the Babaylan-Mandirigma of Manila.

Years later, after giving birth to you around the same time Miranda gave birth to her twins (one a stillborn, unfortunately), it was you and Alexandra who became best buddies instead, as different your personalities were. You two had practically grown up together and you yourself heard countless stories of the supernatural from your Tito Anton. It wasn't that hard to believe when he and his sigbin companions would sometimes come home tracking blood prints on the floors (which you'd helped your mother clean up). Heck, you'd even met Señor Armanaz, the Great Stallion himself and the ruling tikbalang of the Armanaz herd. That pretty, white-haired diwata seemed extremely fond of you, too, which was evident when you'd sneak in with Alexandra to Tito Anton's meetings and she would smile (even wave) at you happily.

You had absolutely no idea why the fae-like lady was so nice to you, but you weren't complaining at all!

However, in spite of your experiences with the supernatural, you and your mother always believed that you were normal humans. In actuality, that was who you were for the majority of your childhood. It was only until Miranda herself saw a vision of you—a much older you—fighting the monsters of the Underworld alongside her own daughter. During dinnertime, Miranda told your mother that she saw you blessed by the heavens with powers that would aid in the battle against evil.

It sounded absolutely ridiculous, right? Yeah, your mom thought so, too.

Your mother only laughed it off as she placed a steaming bowl of tinola in front of Alexandra's brothers, who instantly dug in like they haven't been fed in years.

"Boys! Dahan-dahan lang," Anton reprimanded his sons. "Or else you'll choke and the soup will come out of your noses!"

"Okay, Papa."

"Grabe ka naman, Miranda. I doubt that anything like that's going to happen to my daughter," your mom chuckled, watching your little hands try to feed Alexandra with a piece of chicken. "Unlike you guys, our lineage isn't anything special. Ordinaryo lang ang lahi namin."

Miranda sighed, looking at you and her only living daughter enjoying your time being kids, "I guess you're right. Baka panaginip lang talaga 'yun."

Anton glanced at her knowingly. Although he was aware that you and your mom didn't dabble in magic or anything like they did, he knew that whenever Miranda—one of the Seven Seers—had such vivid dreams, it was something of great importance. But he decided to say nothing, understanding how much your mother wanted to let you live as normal of a life possible in this household.

That was when you were seven years old. One year later, Miranda died fighting against a group of aswang who decided to betray Anton. Said man found the eight-year-old Alexandra hiding in a corner behind the waterfalls, scared and holding Sinag close to her heaving chest as she tried to hold her tearful sobs in.

Of course, a few days later, you and your mother attended the funeral with the mourning Trese family. All the brothers had done their best to stay strong, especially for their little sister who didn't fully understand yet what just happened. Little you ran towards Alexandra, holding her hand tightly as her mother's casket was lowered. Around you were various comrades, both human and non-human, paying their respects to their bereaved allies.

That day, as you turned your back to return to your mother's arms, you knew you would never forget the feeling of numerous unearthly eyes following your every movement.

Even they could sense that there was something about you, a so-called regular human child. You smelled human and had the aura of one, but there was something they couldn't place. It was like a tiny rock getting into your shoe, not coming out at all.

Much changed after that, but you and Alexandra remained close together. To your dismay, just after you graduated elementary, you and your mother had to move back to the province to stay with your sick grandparents. The last thing you could remember was kneeling in the back of the car, looking sadly through the rear windscreen as Alexandra and her brothers waved goodbye to you.

More than a decade had passed since then. You used to write letters to Alexandra, but after Hank told you she had to undergo the trials of the Puno ng Balete, you haven't heard from her (although Hank did disclose that she'd managed to come home safely, which was a great relief to you). You didn't blame her; you knew Tito Anton had passed away in the five years she was gone and that she had to take over the title of Lakan, as well as the Babaylan-Mandirigma of Manila. It was a demanding job! You remembered Tito Anton sometimes staying up all night—breakfast would be served and he would still be in his study, going over paperwork. On other days, he would be gone for consecutive nights handling cases all around Manila. You could only pray Alexandra was fine.

Your life had continued on, as well—you took care of your ill grandparents until they died, helped your mother in the province, went to a good highschool, then earned your degree in another prominent city that wasn't Manila.

Your mom actually recommended that you go to school somewhere else, given the constantly rising number of attacks in the capital of the country. And so you did. Life was hard, but normal until then.

The funny thing was that, when you reached the age of twenty-one, you finally understood why those supernatural creatures kept looking at you weirdly as a kid (and why Lady Diwata liked you so much).

What was even funnier was that the dramatic revelation came to you when you weren't in the Philippines. It was after you freshly graduated college, when you were traveling all over Asia to volunteer in charity projects. It was always your dream to one day expand your horizons not only beyond your province, but the Philippines itself, while also doing good in the world.

And here you were, walking that path you dreamt of.

The organization you luckily managed to become a member of provided everything you needed, and every few months, you would move from country to country. Because of that, you'd already been able to travel to so many places. First it was Thailand, then Indonesia, China, South Korea, India, Japan, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Malaysia, and currently, you were in Vietnam. Visiting those places was fun and gave you a whole new perspective of the world you lived in; it was a... learning experience, too.

Still, that incident happened when you were in Thailand, when you were the last one in the rented apartment balcony taping up the boxes for the donation drive tomorrow. Yawning, you cut more duct tape and stuck them to the open boxes tightly.

"Inday," someone said from behind you. You didn't bother turning around, thinking it was one of your fellow volunteers looking for you this late at night. Probably your roommate. She was the only one who usually called you by your nickname instead of your real name.

"Hmm?" you hummed, taping up more boxes. "Papasok na ako sa kwarto, Lyn. I just have a few more boxes to close. Alam mong mapapagalitan ako kung may hindi madidistribute bukas."

"Hindi ako si Lyn."

You paused, then slowly turned around, flinching at the sudden bright light that shone right against your eyes. For a moment, akala mo namatay ka na at hinaharap mo si San Pedro.

It was a glowing figure in white whose face you couldn't clearly see, which frightened you even more.

"Ay, mama!" you exclaimed, shielding your eyes and falling to your knees. Then, you gasped loudly, patting your body and panicking with closed lids. "Oh my God, am I dead? Nasa heaven na po ba ako?" Your lips wobbled. "Ngayon pa nga lang ako nakaalis ng Pilipinas... I haven't even done all the things I've wanted to do! Hindi pa ako nakapagpaalam sa nanay ko—aray!"

You'd felt something hit the back of your head. Hard. It was the glowing figure in white, but now you could see their unimpressed face scowling at you.

"Kalma lang, Inday. Hindi ka pa patay, pero makinig ka nang mabuti," they shushed you urgently (you weren't sure if they were male or female). "Do not be afraid. I am a messenger from the heavens, and I bear great news!"

"Great news...?" you trailed off, then your eyes widened excitedly. "Like, nanalo ba ako ng lotto? Isang milyon? Bilyon? Hala! Wait, is this a Mama Mary moment? I'm not ready to be the next immaculate conception!"

They glared at you, making you shut up instantly. "Sorry, I'll shut up now," you apologized with a mumble. This person (thing?) was kind of... strict. Whatever did you do wrong? You were just sleep-deprived and running on energy drinks (as well as kape).

"I have come to tell you that you are the vessel of the last skymaiden," they revealed, arms wide open. The light around them seemed to grow even brighter, making you squint. You felt like you were about the go blind! "Ikaw ang huling biraddali, Y/N L/N."

At ayun, zero brain cells remaining. Tunay na nagloading screen ang brain mo. Nag-error at nagcrash pa nga siguro, eh.

"... Ha? Ano?"

You blinked, completely speechless—as seen by how wide your jaw had dropped open. It wasn't that you were unfamiliar with the biraddali, it was just that you'd only heard of them once when you were just a young child. Your Tita Miranda had mentioned they were long gone from the world of the supernatural.

"Oh no, me? A biraddali? You're joking," you stuttered out, pointing at yourself. "Aren't they extinct or something? And, uh... not human?"

They nodded, "Yes. It is correct that everyone in the mystical world thought that the biraddali were long gone, even before the colonizers came to conquer the native lands. However, before the skymaidens all disappeared, the youngest and most powerful one among the seven sisters sealed her soul away to the rivers of time until the strength of a heavenly being was needed to help purify the evils of the world." The figure floated closer to you. "That last biraddali's soul, along with its corresponding power, traits, and knowledge, had chosen to reside deep within you the moment you were conceived."

Honestly, how were you even supposed to react? Your life was nowhere near ready for something like this. Was this a prank by your friends? Your colleagues? The light around this person seemed too authentic to be fake, though.

You stayed in shock for an entire minute, silent. The being in front of you only waited for a response.

"Ano 'to, Sailor Moon? Winx Club?" you whispered to yourself, before slapping your own cheek and scolding yourself. A stinging red mark was left on your face. "Inday, kakamanhwa mo 'yan! Nasosobraan ka na ata, matulog ka na!"

Sighing heavily, you rubbed your face tiredly, still in disbelief that you—according to this stranger—were apparently some old soul from a species of ethereal beings that were long gone. It sounded like something out of those reincarnation webnovels you got addicted to. What now, you were the MC? Wattpad ka, girl?

"Look, this is a mistake. I still have to wake up early tomorrow to give out the donations," you spoke to the glowing being (or whatever it was), laughing nervously. "I'm sorry, but I think you have the wrong person. Either that or I must be hallucinating from sleep deprivation, because I'm definitely not a divine creature. You're probably just a product of my imagination. Sorry, I'm going to bed."

Bang!

At that moment, the power in the building went out. The only thing you could see was the thing who assumed you were a biraddali (they were so bright they were like a flashlight in the dark for you).

"Brownout?" you blinked. It felt wrong, though. It was eerily silent. "Did a fuse blow up?"

"Nagsimula na ang iyong unang pagsubok, Y/N," they announced seriously. "Creatures of the dark have already begun to take over this building. You may not have noticed, but all throughout your life, you have always been helping and giving. It is your nature as a being descended from the heavens themselves, and now, it is time for you to accept your destiny."

"Hoy, sandali lang! Sandali, sandali!" You were absolutely wide awake now as you heard the sounds of strange whispers around you. It was terrifyingly creepy, much creepier than whatever you'd seen back in the Trese Residence (and you'd seen a lot in that house). You did not want to be a part of a horror movie-like lifestyle. "Don't I have a choice in this?! I—I don't have any training or fighting skills! Hindi ako Alexandra Trese o Babaylan-Mandirigma! I'm not ready for this, holy sh—"

The candescent creature raised a brow at you, "Inday, I just told you that you have the power of a lost mystical being. And tell me, if you had the power to save your companions in this building from the forces of evil, would you save them?"

You were silent, knowing the answer.

"Well?" they prodded.

You bit your lip, "Oo naman. I'm not heartless!" But you were a little impulsive. And apparently, insane.

"That's what I thought. I just need you to believe in yourself," the being encouraged, gentler this time. It transformed into something smaller and rounder—like a ball of light. "Ikaw ang huling biraddali, Y/N, at marami kang kapangyarihan. Isa dito ay ang pagtulong sa mga nangangailangan, lalo na laban sa masasamang nilalang."

Bestie, what had you just gotten into?

You swallowed apprehensively, then nodded in determination, "Sige. So, how do I save the people in the building? Biraddali were said to be able to shapeshift, right? If I remember the tale correctly. Oh my God, I can't believe this is happening to me right now."

"That's just one of your abilities, but I'll teach you. I'm actually your guide," they replied confidently. "With me, you'll be able to master your powers and exceed your capabilities in no time!"

"Wait! Anong pangalan mo?" you asked breathlessly, following them as they speedily flew out of the room. "Grabe, slow down! I'm not athletic! I haven't even exercised this week, goodness."

"... Gabay. Ako si Gabay."

Despite the adrenaline and fear running in your veins, you still grinned up at the ball of light, "Okay. Nice to meet you, Gabay."

This was just the beginning of your supernatural combat training abroad. When you returned to the Philippines three years later, you were stronger, faster, and more powerful than you'd ever felt before. It was crazy.

Oh, that guy who tried to rob you when you came back to Manila was crazy, too. The two identical-looking men in dark suits and white ties—you wondered how they were surviving the heat in that attire—could only watch in awe as you chased down that man who stole your bag while doing acrobatics and parkour.

"Uy, Kuya Crispin, sino kaya 'yun?"

"Ewan ko, Basilio."

"... She's kind of pretty. Type ko. Type mo rin ata."

"The more important question is, paano niya na nahuli ang magnanakaw?"

"Oo nga, no? One in a million chance 'yan dito sa Maynila, haha! Ang astig ni ate!"

(Next Chapter.)

± Author's Notes ±

Ayieee, type daw tayo ng kambal! 😌

How the hell did I write this entirely random thing in one day? 2k+ words? Ano daw? 😃⁉️

You know, this was supposed to just be a Trese one-shot or a bunch of drabbles for the characters I'm currently simping for... but it turned into a full-blown, shameless self-insert slash crackfic. Kakacellphone ko 'yan. 🤦‍♀️

Nagresearch pa ako ng articles about Filipino skymaidens because I wanted something similiar to the Japanese celestial maidens (tennyo). Very random idea but why not? Gusto ko ng badass Y/N na hindi takot lumaban sa mga mumu! 👻

Also, pagbigyan niyo nalang ang matandang 'to kasi ilang taon na akong hindi nagpopost ng mga writings ko. May track record pa naman ako bilang author na hindi nagtatapos ng mga fanfic, hehe. I also haven't read the comics so please forgive me for any inaccuracies and of course, misspellings/errors. Gusto ko lang matapos 'to para makakabalik na ako sa Jujutsu Kaisen. 🥲😗

Anyways, comments and constructive criticism are welcome! Hit those heart, reblog, and follow buttons for updates! Just comment if you want to be tagged in the next chapters. ❤

[cazzyvintage]

Born to be wild - Chapter 1

Synopsis: Joining F1 as one of the first female drivers you knew was going to be a challenge but you weren't prepared to deal with one particular asshole on the tracks. With the urge to win so strong within each racer, will romance pave the way? Or will it destroy everything?

Word count: 2.6k

Author’s note: And away we go! First chapter lads. This is a long series so a lot of building up to do so stick around. Idk how frequent updates will be but I will try to make them quite frequent

Warnings: Reference to misogyny, swearing

Navigation

Born to be wild masterlist

(Please check out navigation to see what I will be writing next, add yourself to my taglist and if requests are open or closed)

Cross-posted to ao3 under the same username

You were here.

Finally, after years of preparation, years of people, men, telling you that you couldn’t do it. That racing was a man’s sport, that a woman could never have the same skills, drive and determination that men had when it came to racing. That you just couldn’t do it. Now you stood here, feet on the warm cement, eyes glimmering with excitement as you looked over the F1 banner, ready to enter the garage for the first time, ready for qualifying for tomorrows race.

The first female F1 driver.

Ever since you were a little girl you had the need for speed. You created your own go-carts out of spare bits and bobs your father had from his garage. You raced the other neighbour’s kids down the street to see who would win and be crowned the coolest kid around. The way the wind flew through your hair, the feeling of it rushing past your face, seeing everything move slowly and fastly at once, it was intoxicating for you. When you first found out about Formula 1, it was still in its early days and people often would take the mick out of it, your parents included but you badgered them constantly to take you to a race, and finally, after years of begging they gave in and took you to see it seeing how your heart was set upon it.

After watching the race you had instantly turned around to them and told them that was what you wanted to do. You wanted to be an F1 racer. They tried to persuade you to seek a different job, a respectable one for a lady such as a secretary. They even suggested that you could be a secretary for an F1 team, but that wasn’t what you wanted and you would never feel that satisfaction in life if you weren’t within that seat, if you hand wasn’t on that wheel, if you weren’t crossing that finishing line.

It had been a rough start. No one wanted to hier you as they thought you would be nowhere near as successful as a man could be. Time and time again you were trying to apply for test outs and met with rejections at every corner to the point where you even considered just throwing your hat in. Would you be spending your whole life just trying to get in but being denied all the time just because you were born a woman. But when you were at your lowest you were met with a shining light. One team wanted to try you out. They made no promises but they were willing to give you a try, and that was all it took.

Once you were out on the tracks you could show off your skill, your ability to make quick decisions, how you were able to work the car to how you wanted it and no one could deny after that, you were a dam fine driver. You were taken on and started racing in small F3 races, in the hopes that a bigger company might spot you and choose to get you into F1, and after a few years of waiting, it happened. You were signed on.

A lot of other people from F3 were in an uproar about it, claiming you did all sorts of things to get in, claiming it was only for diversity but at this point, you didn’t care. Everything you had ever wanted was coming true. Your whole dream was becoming a reality and now there was only one last step for you. To win the championship.

You had been signed on to the F1 team, ‘Tyrrell-Ford’ and previously a week ago you had met your new teammate, Patrick Depailler. You had been worried about how his reaction might have been to you, fearing the man might have felt offended merely by your presence but he had been exceedingly nice to you and quickly your fears disappeared into excitement for getting to work with him.

You could see him now, coming out of your shared garage, holding up his hand in greeting and smiling politely at you. He wore a blue boiler suit, similar to yours, he had a white turtle neck under which just about poked out of his suit. His hair was cut short and stuck to his head in sweat from the warmth of the day but still, you could see the slight curls within the hair. He had a more prominent jawline than some men but his most distinctive feature upon his face was his large nose. You strolled over meeting him halfway and his grin grew as he placed a firm hand upon your shoulder, shaking you slightly.

“You’re first time on the grounds here in Brazill huh? How you feel?” he asked, his french accent heavily accentuated as his hand, tightly grasping your shoulder makes you walk beside him as he leads you to the main area.

“Amazing, I feel so excited being able to be here and I just can’t wait to get in the car and get out on the course!” you eagerly told him, bouncing on your heels, making him chuckle.

“I still feel the same way after all these years. I haven’t been able to stand still yet. But all in due time. I think it’s time you meet the rest of the racers”

Your fist naturally clenches as sudden nerves light up within you, but you swallow trying to push them down. You were used to meeting new people and you had every right as they had to be there. There is nothing to worry about.

“How do you think, they will… you know”

His face turns to yours again and offers a sympathetic smile, knowing the struggles you’ve likely gone through already to be there. “Most of them? Won’t give two shits. All they will care about is if you can drive well. They are men though, especially one of them I’d advise keeping an eye on. He’s gained quite the reputation around other women” he begins to explain but cuts himself off as he chuckles. “There is, of course, the rat, but he’s an asshole to everyone so you need not worry about him”

“I assume the first one you are talking about is James Hunt, and the rat would be Niki Lauda,” you say, thinking back to all the research you had been doing on the racers who you would be joining on the tracks.

“Ah so you’ve done you’re research, smart girl. Yes, you’d be right, but the news doesn’t truly show you what it’s like to know these men. They’re likely not what you expect”

He then pauses again and huffs in a burst of slight laughter, “Or maybe they are exactly what you expect”

You both turn a corner and instantly you felt eyes gaze upon you as you reach the section where all the drivers were preparing to start the qualifying. Patrick still kept a firm hand upon your shoulder as he guided you around, introducing you to all the other racers. Some of them like Patrick were nice and wished you well for tomorrow, some of them were standoffish, hardly saying any words to you as they looked at you in distain, and then Patrick leads you over to the man who currently had his legs spread out on his seat and was flashing you one of his well-known grins as his shaggy blonde hair falls down over his face. His jawline was incredible and made you feel like you could cut yourself on how sharp it was. He was seen as Britain’s heartthrob and everywhere he went he had women drooling over him, and looking at him in person for the first time you could understand why.

“James Hunt, he needs no introduction,” Patrick says, motioning his hand to James and instantly he was off his seat and extending his hand for you to shake.

“I’ve always said we need more girls around and in the cars, I’m glad they are starting to listen,” he says shaking your hand firmly.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you” you reply back, still almost in a daze, you were standing before the James Hunt.

“The pleasure is all mine love. I’m looking forward to getting to know you on the track” and then he pauses, and winks at you, “And off the track. I assume you’ll be attending all the parties. They are the best aren’t they Patrick”

“They are known to become quite a ruckus”

“But that’s all the fun! You’ll love them, you look like the kind of girl that would enjoy a party like that, uh?”

You almost mentally slapped yourself in realising you hadn’t even told him your own name yet, “Y/n, y/n, l/n”

“And that, is a beautiful name, like one of those greek goddesses”

You scoff though your lips twitch up into a smile. You cross your arms as you slowly start to grow used to what James is like, “And how many times do you repeat that to all the women you try to woe?”

James’s eyebrows furrow and he puts on a fake frown at your words, “I have you know, I have never said that to another woman before”

“Do you even know the names of the Greek goddesses?” Partick asks and James was quick to reply with “That is beside the point”

It causes the three of you to laugh though. Like you had seen in all the newspapers James was a flirt, a playboy, but he seemed like someone you could get along with, share a few jokes with and that you were looking forward to.

“You’d think with the amount of laugher here this wasn’t a place where people risk their lives and die”

James tilts his head back and lets out a groan of fake annoyance as he then turns around and you can see the man standing behind James, hand on hip looking extremely pissed off. His hair was a lot curlier than Patrick, and a lot thicker. It was chestnut brown with complimented his hazelnut eyes. His hair was all messy though, scattered across his forehead, the roots starting to become soken with sweat. While he didn’t have the cutting jawline that James possessed which drew women wild, his cheeks bones were more pronounced likely due to the most distinctive feature which was his overbite. His lips covered most of it but still, you could see his two front teeth slightly, which had earned him the nickname, the rat.

“Well, well if it isn’t the rat” James states, sucking his lip onto his top teeth to imitate Niki’s overbite in an attempt to make you laugh.

“Do I have to tell you every time, I don’t mind being called a rat. Rats are smart-”

It seemed as if Niki was going to continue talking but James cut him off again, leaving Niki to suck his cheeks in, in annoyance.

“Why are you here Niki, can’t you bugger off somewhere else”

“I came to see what was causing a buzz in everyone. I don’t understand the excitement”

James steps aside so Niki could see you clearly and Patrick finally takes his hand off your shoulder to introduce you to him.

“Niki, this is y/n, she’s Tyrell-Ford’s new racer”

Niki scoffs, his eyes looking you up and down in distain. “Everyone knows Tyrell is crap”

Patrick’s kind smile falters, a usual grimace that usually appears when talking to Niki arrives on his face instead. “Yes thank you for your opinion, Niki, we all really needed to hear it”

“You’re welcome. Still, I don’t see what all the fuss is. When other drivers join you couldn’t give two craps James, only when you have the chance of getting your dick wet are you suddenly alert”

James’ fists clenched as his face reddens and he takes a stride towards Niki, ready to go for a blow till Patrick steps between them trying to calm down the situation. “He’s only trying to aggravate you to throw you off your game before qualifying James”

“He’s a cunt, and needs a punch right in that ugly face of his” James seethes, taking one last glance between you, Patrick and Niki then storming off to try and cool down. You on the other hand were glaring daggers into Niki, also angered by his rude remarks about you. Niki feels your gaze and his face turns to you again, matching your heated eyes with his ice-cold ones and he refused to break eye contact first.

“When they say you are an asshole, they really mean it huh” you finally spit out.

“I only say what is true, if that makes me an asshole then so be it.”

“I trust that means you don’t have many friends”

Niki tilts his head as he continues to observe you, “Why would I need friends? I’m happy as I am”

You could feel your irritation for him grow stronger and you open your mouth to continue arguing with Niki when another driver jogs up to him, placing his hand upon his shoulder, “Niki, the boss wants to talk to you”

Niki frowned, in confusion and annoyance but shoved his hands in his pockets, mumbling under his breath about how he had seen the boss only half an hour ago. He took a few steps away before pausing and throwing you another look over his shoulder, his lips still cast in a frown “Good luck for tomorrow. You will need it”

You sucked on your bottom lip, trying to not shout back at him and give him the satisfaction of an answer. When he was a safe distance however you muttered under your breath “What a dick”

“I’m sorry about that y/n, but he’s like that with everyone, it’s best to ignore it,” Patrick tells you, shooting you an apologetic glance before turning to the other man. “What did the boss want with Niki?”

“Oh nothing, I just said that so he would go away”

The man cracked a smile and held his hand out to you for you to shake, “I’m Clay Regazzoni, Niki’s teammate”

The swiss man had tanned skin, a bushy moustache and long dark hair but his features were kind and certainly appeared a lot friendlier than his teammate.

“Niki’s teammate? I don’t know how you cope with that” you say shaking his hand back.

He grins at your statement, clicking his mouth as if thinking, “Alcohol, a lot of alcohol”

And with the removal of Niki’s presence, the laughter was brought back to the atmosphere.

“But really, Niki, he says what’s on his mind, and usually all shit and not worth listening to, but he’s an okay guy when you get to know him, you just have to put up with his bad days” Clay finally says as the three of you are able to control your laughter again.

“Which are most days” Patrick finishes.

Clay took a glance over to the direction where Niki had gone five minutes ago and with a nod of his head bit the two of your farewell, claiming he should leave before Niki gets back demanding to know why he had lied to him. Now you had met all the drivers, Patrick leads you back over to your shared garage, and with an excited smile, he lifted up the gate for you to be able to take a look at your new car. It was dark blue with your number and name pressed onto the side surrounded by a few sponsorship brands. Your heart nearly skipped a beat as your eyes widened in excitement.

“Are you ready?” he asks.

You smile, your eyes never leaving the car, “I was born ready”

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[thebonggirll]

chapter seven

< previous: chapter six

When the plates were cleared away, the conch horn sounded and all stood at their tables.

Campers yelled and cheered as Annabeth and two of her siblings ran into the pavilion carrying a silk banner. It was about ten feet long, glistening gray, with a painting of a barn owl above an olive tree. From the opposite side of the pavilion, Clarisse and her buddies ran in with another banner, of identical size, but gaudy red, painted with a bloody spear and a boar's head. Y/N was adjusting her weapons, which just included her sword and arrows. She looked at him from the distance and gave a nervous smile to Percy. She quickly looked away though, afraid of letting him see through her. She knew about Annabeth's plan and she wanted her to win against Clarisse.

Percy turned to Luke and yelled over the noise, "Those are the flags?"

"Yeah."

"Ares and Athena always lead the teams?"

"Not always," he said. "But often."

"So, if another cabin captures one, what do you do- repaint the flag?"

He grinned. "You'll see. First we have to get one."

"Whose side are we on?"

He gave Percy a sly look, as if he knew something he didn't. The scar on his face made him look almost evil in the torchlight. "We've made a temporary alliance with Athena. Tonight, we get the flag from Ares. And you are going to help," Luke said.

The teams were announced. Athena had made an alliance with Apollo and Hermes, the two biggest cabins. Apparently, privileges had been traded-shower times, chore schedules, the best slots for activities-in order to win support. Y/N already had enough of those after picking fight with Clarisse so she decided it was better to work it the way Annabeth wanted.

Ares had allied themselves with everybody else: Dionysus, Demeter, Aphrodite, and Hephaestus. Dionysus's kids were actually good athletes, but there were only two of them. Demeter's kids had the edge with nature skills and outdoor stuff but they weren't very aggressive. Aphrodite's sons and daughters mostly sat out every activity and checked their reflections in the lake and did their hair and gossiped.

Y/N wondered if they were actually talking about her and Percy. Annabeth did say they were and she wouldn't lie about something like this..right? She blushed at the thought and sighed, hoping to clear her mind before they started.

Hephaestus's kids were only four of them, but they were big and burly from working in the metal shop all day. And lastly, Ares's cabin: a dozen of the biggest and meanest kids on Long Island, or anywhere else on the planet. Y/N wanted them to be off the high pedestal they think they're in. She had no personal grudge against them ofcourse, but their arrogance ticked her off.

Chiron hammered his hoof on the marble.

"Heroes!" he announced. "You know the rules. The creek is the boundary line. The entire forest is fair game. All magic items are allowed. The banner must be prominently displayed, and have no more than two guards. Prisoners may be disarmed, but may not be bound or gagged. No killing or maiming is allowed. I will serve as referee and battlefield medic. Arm yourselves!"

He spread his hands, and the tables were suddenly covered with equipment: helmets, bronze swords, spears, oxhide shields coated in metal.

Annabeth yelled, "Blue team, forward!"

They cheered and shook their swords, and followed her down the path to the south woods. The red team yelled taunts at them as they headed off toward the north.

Percy tried to search for Y/N but she was nowhere near. He wanted to know if there was some kind of plan, but she wasn't there to talk to. Reluctantly, he managed to catch up with Annabeth without tripping over his equipment and "Hey."

She kept marching.

"So what's the plan?" he asked. "Got any magic items you can loan me?"

Her hand drifted toward her pocket, "Just watch Clarisse's spear," she said. "You don't want that thing touching you. Otherwise, don't worry. We'll take the banner from Ares. Has Luke given you your job?"

"Border patrol, whatever that means."

"It's easy. Stand by the creek, keep the reds away. Leave the rest to me. Athena always has a plan."

"Okay, w-well can you atleast tell me where is Y/N?" he asked.

"She's busy. Don't distract her," she looked at him with what looked like judgemental eyes, and pushed ahead, leaving him in the dust.

"Okay," Percy mumbled. "Glad you wanted me on your team."

It was a warm, sticky night. The woods were dark, with fireflies popping in and out of view. Annabeth stationed Percy next to a little creek that gurgled over some rocks, then she and the rest of the team scattered into the trees.

Y/N was hidden in the branches of a tree nearby. She silently aimed and took down several members of the red team. Well not exactly kill them ofcourse, they tried to find her but thankfully the Ares cabin wasn't as smart as Athena. She had to move from her position time to time.

On the other hand, Percy heard the conch horn blew far away. He heard whoops and yells in the woods, the clanking of metal, kids fighting. A blue-plumed ally from Apollo raced past him like a deer, leaped through the creek, and disappeared into enemy territory.

"Great," he thought, "I'll miss all the fun, as usual."

Then he heard a sound that sent a chill up his spine, a low canine growl, somewhere close by. He raised his shield instinctively; he had the feeling something was stalking him. Then the growling stopped. He felt the presence retreating.

On the other side of the creek, the underbrush exploded. Five Ares warriors came yelling and screaming out of the dark.

"Cream the punk!" Clarisse screamed. They charged across the stream. There was no help in sight.

He managed to sidestep the first kid's swing, but these guys were not as stupid the Minotaur. They surrounded him, and Clarisse thrust her spear at him. His shield deflected the point, but he felt a painful tingling all over his body. His hair stood on end. His shield arm went numb, and the air burned.

Electricity. Her stupid spear was electric. Percy fell back.

While Percy was busy fighting half of Ares' cabin, Y/N was busy fighting with a red team member. She dodged his swing and swung her foot on his leg, making him lose his balance. He fell and Y/N immediately kicked his...private area. Defence lessons from mortals were useful too.

As her opponent was screaming in pain, she heard yelling, elated screams, and saw Luke racing toward the boundary line with the red team's banner lifted high. He was flanked by a couple of Hermes guys covering his retreat, and a few Apollos behind them, fighting off the Hephaestus kids. Y/N started running towards them, trying to get the red teams away from Luke.

Percy was nearby. The Ares folks got up, and Clarisse muttered a dazed curse.

"A trick!" she shouted. "It was a trick."

They staggered after Luke, but it was too late. Everybody converged on the creek as Luke ran across into friendly territory, their side exploded into cheers. The red banner shimmered and turned to silver. The boar and spear were replaced with a huge caduceus, the symbol of cabin eleven. Everybody on the blue team picked up Luke and started carrying him around on their shoulders. Chiron cantered out from the woods and blew the conch horn.

The game was over. They won.

Y/N huffed and walked towards Percy who was about to join the celebration.

"Where the heck did you learn to fight like that?" Annabeth asked. The air shimmered, and she materialized, holding a Yankees baseball cap as if she'd just taken it off her head.

Percy felt angry. He wasn't even fazed by the fact that she'd just been invisible. "You set me up," he said. "You put me here because you knew Clarisse would come after me, while you sent Luke around the flank. You had it all figured out."

Annabeth shrugged. "I told you. Athena always, always has a plan."

"A plan to get me pulverized."

"I came as fast as I could. I was about to jump in, but ..." She shrugged. "You didn't need help."

"And you?" Percy turned to Y/N, "Did you know about this plan?"

Y/N smiled nervously and said, "Well...I've been avoiding you since morning if you hadn't noticed?" Then she noticed his wounded arm. "How did you do that?"

"Sword cut," he said. "What do you think?"

"No. It was a sword cut." She held his arm to take a closer look, "Look at it."

The blood was gone. Where the huge cut had been, there was a long white scratch, and even that was fading. As he watched, it turned into a small scar, and disappeared.

"I-I don't get it," he said.

Annabeth was thinking hard. She looked down at his feet, then at Clarisse's broken spear, and said, "Step out of the water, Percy."

"What-"

"Just do it."

Percy came out of the creek and immediately felt bone tired. Percy almost fell over, but Annabeth steadied him.

"Oh, Styx," she cursed. "This is not good. I didn't want ... I assumed it would be Zeus... ."

"I mean...it can't be that bad?" Y/N said, she looked very nervous, for the first time. "I mean if Zeus did...others should...get a chance?"

By some miracle, Percy was still alive not only after Annabeth's plan, but also after a hellhound attacked him. But he was badly injured.

Chiron trotted up next to them, a bow in his hand, his face grim.

"Di immortales!" Annabeth said. "That's a hellhound from the Fields of Punishment. They don't ... they're not supposed to ..."

"Someone summoned it," Chiron said. "Someone inside the camp."

Luke came over, the banner in his hand forgotten, his moment of glory gone.

Clarisse yelled, "It's all Percy's fault! Percy summoned it!"

"Be quiet, child," Chiron told her.

Y/N rushed towards Percy, her eyebrows creased in worry. "I-I don't...I don't know yet how to heal you. I'm not trained at this level."

"Y/N step aside," Annabeth told me. "Quick, Percy, get in the water."

She understood her friend. If what they suspected was infact true then...he would heal pretty quickly. That's how it worked before right? Like the wound on his arm?

"I'm okay," Percy insisted.

"No, you're not," Y/N said. Her voice sounded stern, like an order from a teacher or instructor.

"Just do what I said," Annabeth said, "Chiron, watch this."

Percy was too tired to argue. He stepped back into the creek, the whole camp gathering around him. Instantly, he felt better. The cuts on his chest were closing up. Some of the campers gasped.

"Look, I-I don't know why," Percy said, trying to apologize. "I'm sorry...."

But they weren't watching his wounds heal. They were staring at something above his head.

"Percy," Annabeth said, pointing. "Um..."

A hologram of green light, spinning and gleaming above his head. A three-tipped spear: a trident.

"Your father," Annabeth murmured. "This is really not good."

"It is determined," Chiron announced.

All around him, campers started kneeling, even the Ares cabin, though they didn't look happy about it.

"My father?" he asked, completely bewildered.

"Poseidon," said Chiron. "Earthshaker, Stormbringer, Father of Horses. Hail, Perseus Jackson, Son of the Sea God."

Y/N was just afraid of this. Not that Percy got claimed by his father, good for him. But this bitter feeling she got. She felt angry. It was coming, ofcourse, she knew he would get claimed but it still bothered her that he got claimed that quick while her father probably didn't even care.

Did he even care?

No, she shouldn't think like that. It's what kept her going. And even if he didn't claim her...she already has a step-father. He was more than enough. Infact, he is more of a father than...he is.

Soon the area started getting cleared up. Percy got away from the water but immediately staggered, all of his energy was gone.

Y/N quickly held his arm and helped him walk with her support. "Let's go back. Chiron will...show you your cabin tomorrow," she said.

"Sorry.." Percy apologized.

"Why do you keep saying that?" she chuckled, "It's not your fault at all. You didn't ask for all this."

"Yeah but everyone just..."

"They have a reason but believe me, unlike Clarisse says, you are not responsible for this." She looked up at the sky. Ofcourse the weather was bad. Percy couldn't ask her about it, he was too tired to know about what's going on in her head.

"You know for a newbie, this whole week you've been way braver than I was." Y/N smiled, "I was...pathetic."

"Yeah you're just saying it to make me feel better," Percy chuckled.

"Is it working?" Y/N looked up at him. He was also a few inches taller than her. He looked down at her with a smile.

There was it again. That weird feeling. She quickly looked away and cleared her throat, "I tried to look cool and shot a fire arrow in the first week and almost burned someone's hair."

"No way," Percy laughed weakly.

"Uh huh, Chiron keeps telling the story to everyone. I'm surprised you didn't hear."

As they reached the cabin, she walked him towards his spot.

"This doesn't look comfortable," she muttered cleaning his area quickly, "you need good sleep."

"I think I'll be fine." Percy said.

Y/N got up and sighed, "Well then, good night," and was about to leave when he held her wrist and stopped her.

Once again, her heart did a flip. Why? Why now? He was gonna have his own cabin and will probably forget about her insignificant presence. It always happened to her.

"Thank you Y/N," he removed his hold and said, "I mean it. You...did make me feel better than anyone else."

Y/N offered him her best smile and said, "Like I said, I'm here for you."

As much as she wanted to deny this, she knew about it. She didn't want him to go. She didn't want her new friend to leave her like everyone else.

She didn't want to be left out.

next: chapter eight >

book one: the lightning thief

percy jackson x reader series

MASTERLIST

Tags: @the-natureofme

[impaladolan]

Control Freak - Grayson Dolan

summary: after Choff production lines CEO (finally) retires, a new boss makes his way into Y/N’s world..

warnings: sexual references/undertones

a/n: another Grayson series, i can’t help myself :)) enjoy!! also, ily <3

Ugh, he was in one of his moods again.

The office cubicles were hastily bustling with nervousness and terror. At any given moment, the infuriated man, so-called boss, will be bursting through the double doors with a dark red tint across his cheeks and maybe even smoke out of his ears, if you're lucky.

Mr. Kidman has never been good with the whole "patience is a virtue" thing, he's a ticking time bomb at all hours of the day. Nothing ever satisfies him, nor remotely excites him, he just finds something to yell and scream about at some poor unfortunate soul and then continues his merry day. But today, he was furious. He had no empathy for anyone, even his favorite two little secretaries that wear push-up bras like a side-job. Apparently someone had brought him the wrong breakfast order and everything just went downhill from there.

Unlike all the others, you seemed calm and composed amongst all this mayhem, but only because you, and maybe two others, knew that 'Old Angry Kidman' was finally retiring. Yep, freedom at last. Well, unless the new guy, or girl, has terrible anger issues.

So you just sat at your clean and pristine desk, typing another draft and adding it to the plentiful piles saved on your work computer, while soundlessly chewing on a mint piece of gum that substituted for the absence of a tooth brushing the morning of. But your quick finger movements were hushed once Mr. Kidman, as predicted, flew straight through the doors with his signature fiery red face and sweat droplets dotting his thinning hairline. "Every body fucking up! I've fucking had it with all of you." He demands, majority of the room raising from their seats with caution. With his teeth tightly gritted and his lips in a fine line, he swirls his index finger in the air, motioning to all of his terrified workers.

"If it were my fuckin' decision, I'd have each and everyone of you pieces of shits fired and on the streets in point ZERO-TWO seconds. You all are fucking lucky that this is my last day here, son's of bitches." A man of few nice words, that he is. The nicest thing you've ever heard him say was thank you, and that was two years ago. His vulgar and aggressive attitude truly brings the worth of working this job down. If it weren't for the good pay and lack of any other remotely feasible company jobs, you would've quit a long time ago.

But alas, you still endure the inevitable fiery reign of his obstructive wrath on the daily.

-

Dolan is his name.

The new boss, that is. That's the only information you and the rest of the staff knew, besides that he's a male. He hasn't shown up for work yet, or even formally introduced himself. Hell, you don't even know what he looks like. But you were certainly nervous for his arrival.

What if he's just like Kidman, or worse?

It most certainly made you nervous to think that this new guy could ever be worse than Kidman. You were hoping and praying that the he'd at least value his workers and employees.

Everyone, on your office floor, was anticipating the days and hours of his big arrival. No one was certain of when he was going to show up, or if. But nonetheless you were one of the most nervous ones. You held the highest title among your coworkers, except CEO of course, but you were pretty up there when it came to business standards. Everyone seemed to like you as well, your kind nature and natural non-brutal attitude sure did make up for other people's. Of course, you didn't really have an office of your own, because you enjoyed the time spent with the people around you. You truly loved the relationship and humbleness you gained from it. At least you weren't a snotty bitch, right?

There were plenty of little rumors around the workspace that you'd become the new (and improved) owner of this whole entire manufacturing company. Specifically a well known fashion line, Choff. The floor that you, and many of the other leading workers, were on was basically the information database. But from time to time, you'd find yourself strolling through the other, more clothing/model filled areas. Just to see how things were flowing.

Which is actually what you're doing in this moment; running your fingers along the racks filled with hangers that held all the fitted clothing items. It seemed like fun to be down here, measuring and sewing the different outfits to the men and women, but it also seemed stressful. Everyone's always in a rush, with their exploding New York accents and their flailing around all over the place. It's pretty amusing to watch from afar, but you'd be scared to get in anyone's way. They'd probably just run you over and continue their day unaffected.

With that thought in mind, you abruptly come to a stop when you run into the muscular backside of someone, startling you from your stare on the tiled flooring. You uttered a few apologies, taking a step back and straightening your pencil skirt from its newfound wrinkles.

"Lost, darling?" Your eyes trail the floor before you until they're stuck on a pair of shiny dress shoes, attached to a pair of long legs and a broad chest. Your eyes finally landed on the remarkably handsome face, of someone you didn't quite recognize. It wasn't uncommon to stumble across unknown employees, but could it be him?

"Frankly, no." You shortly answer, studying his jaw-dropping features. He was indubitably perfect, without a doubt. With a nicely trimmed beard decorating his beautifully shaped jawline, and big hazel eyes that stared right back at your own, he seemed unearthly. Like he was God's favorite angel sent down from heaven, just to show you a glimpse of what it'd really be like inside the pearly gates. "Are, um, you?" You weren't exactly nervous, just mystified. His recent smile grew into what seemed to be a smirk, while his right side's dimple grew more prominent.

"I'd like to say that I'm not, but I sadly am." He shrugs with a chuckle, sending a wave of unbeknownst pleasure through your ears and fluttering down your spine, until the ends of your toes were satisfied with his deep and raspy voice. "Could you maybe show me around this gigantic place? I've been in need of assistance for the last hour or so." He questions you, dropping his shoulders back and letting his eyes roam your stature before drifting to the interior of the long hallway the two of you are currently standing around in. "I very well could, but I have a dreadful meeting to attend to within the next five to ten minutes." Actually, the meeting was in fifteen minutes. You just simply wanted to see the man's reaction, which wasn't what you though it'd be;

"Perfect, I'll be in attendance for that as well. If you'd so kindly lead the way, I would most appreciate it." He smoothly negotiated, stuffing his right hand, which was tightly wrapped with an expensive looking watch, into his pocket with another grin. He seemed very eloquent with his words and the way he addressed things, it has to be him?

"Do you mind me asking of your name?" You began as you started your trek back to where you came from, your heels quietly clicking from beneath you as you lead the way, him following close behind. "Dolan, Grayson Dolan." He quickly answered. Indeed you were right in thinking he was the new (and maybe improved) CEO of all Choff productions. "New head guy?"

He only nods, to yet another one of your endless questions. "And what's your name, darling?" He asks as the two of you stop at an elevator, his quick hand beating yours to clicking the slightly worn down button. "Y/N Y/L/N, direct head management under you." You relay before boarding onto the empty elevator, the doors closing moments after the two of you were stood side by side. You fidget with the ends of your skirt, staying as calm as possible under his stare that you couldn't help but shrivel under.

"Under me, huh?" You almost gulped at the sound of his double meaninged phrase. Smart guy, hm? Your heart started beating a bit faster the more you thought of his little statement. Your mind became a whirlwind of visuals and fantasies before you could even stop it. Just those two little words had made you all sorts of a mess, and he hasn't even done much of anything. "Don't get too worked up darling, we have a meeting to attend." He chuckles as he steps off the elevator that had opened only seconds ago. You just scoff, your cheeks reddening as you stride right past him, maneuvering through the expanse of people that had just left the staff room, in order for the upcoming meeting to advance.

The moment you were sat in the room and time had passed to where everyone had finally shown up, you felt that lingering feeling of eyes on you. A pair of hazel eyes to be exact, who was sat far from you at the end of the long table. For meeting him not too long ago, he sure did seem comfortable around everyone. It was entirely too soon for you to be liking him already, better yet imagining different scenarios with him as someone boringly rambled. You decided that you'd forget him for the time being and focus on your job, as much as possible.

Though it would be granted as difficult as time moved on..

"That's the conclusion of this meeting. I thank everyone for being here, and I especially appreciate your appearance, Mr. Dolan. I'm happy to say that things around here will continue a lot smoother than it did in the past. And I know most others would agree." Burt Wallace, one of the coordinators, concluded after standing from his seat to dismiss everyone with a nod. While everyone dillydallied in conversations with one another, you in the other hand, hustled straight out of that room and towards the same elevator you had used earlier. The moment you clicked the button, the doors opened wide and you hopped in, tucking yourself in the corner while you gained your breath. You smile to yourself at the successful 'escape' from any questions or perhaps a witty comment from a certain CEO on the loose.

You sigh happily to yourself, watching the doors close again until a hand is stuck between them, pushing them straight back to reveal the man you were somewhat avoiding. "Care if I join you again?" He asked, but he still entered otherwise, clicking one of the many buttons to make the door close. "Did I have a choice?" You almost scoff, feeling his shoulder brush against your own as he stood in the same spot he had previously stood in. "Nah, not really, but I like to seem like a little bit of a gentleman." He answers, the roll of your eyes substituting for the internal scoff that you hadn't let out. The two of you rode in silence for what seemed to be eternity, only the faint sounds of your breaths being heard. As soon as the elevator door clanged and opened, you made a beeline out of there and hustled toward your organized workspace like there was a snake chasing you.

"What's the rush?" Ana Rita, one of the only tolerable women in this entire building, asked as you ducked under your desk. Even though you hadn't looked back to check, you had a feeling he'd follow you, or worse, ask you to meet him in his office. You weren't exactly sure why you were hiding from him, he seemed pretty nice. But he truly intimidated you. Not in a competitive way, more so a physical way. "And why the fuck are you down there?" The redhead crinkled her brows as she looked down her long nose at you. "Just, shhhh!" You bellow quietly, covering your pursed lips with your index finger.

"Fuck, fuck, fuck. Hot man, six o'clock! Get your ass out of there!" She violently whispered at you, frantically tidying herself for the "hot man," presumably Mr. Dolan as you had predicted, approached your desks. You tightly hug your knees from under your desk, praying to god that he wouldn't somehow see you. "After noon, sir, may I help you?" You cringe at the seductive tone lined in her voice, something that Mr. Dolan unfortunately probably gets a lot of. "I'm looking for Ms. Y/L/N, I have some issues to discuss with her." Yet again, his girthy voice made you sigh with comfort. It's extremely calming to listen to.

"She's actually right here—" Ana, the little asshole she is in this moment, points straight at you as you plead with your eyes and shake your head vigorously. You suddenly see his handsome head peer over at you, his brows scrunched with confusion. "Uhm, cords were messed up, gotta fix them." You awkwardly chuckle, patting the outlet box stuffed with all your monitor's cords. You bring yourself out from below your desk as the two stared at you, dusting your front side and settling down in your office chair with a nervous smile.

"I'd like to have a word with you, in my office."

(masterlist)

[leiyahime]

Advent Challenge Daz 07 - Something White

The exhibition plans get concrete. And Kosmo...has too much fun.

I'm sorry for te delay. I never get to do my own stuff when I'm at my dad's

~~~

Day 07 - Something White.

Keith liked the café. It was larger than it looked from the outside, had a light atmosphere. In the back were bookshelves filled with books of all kinds and there was a quite large garden where Kosmo was currently entertaining himself.

Keith was inside with a big cup of coffee in front of him with the owner of the cafe and they were talking about Keith's wish to exhibit his paintings here.

The owner, a woman in her late forties or early fifties called Marion, seemed to be really open for Keith's art. Keith spontaneously didn't dislike her as he had with the gallery owner and she had even welcomed Kosmo warmly despite his impressive size. It had been her who offered to let him out. The garden was much more exciting than having to stay at the table.

"So, this is my side. What do you think, Mr. Kogane? Do you still want to exhibit here? I wold love to have your paintings here! I really liked your portfolio. But I think they would gain more attention at the Gallery."

"I still would like them here. I can still aim higher some other time. I see that your customers are interested in the current pictures." There weren't many other customers, but those he had watched had taken a closer look at the photographs by another local artist which currently adorned the walls.

"That's great. We can plan everything out in detail another time, but if you don't mind I'd like the male back nude at that wall next to the counter. It emanates strength which cannot be betrayed by the scars and the prosthetic. Your model must be quite self confident."

Keith laughed. "I made this to give him some self-confidence about his body. Having himself in such a prominent position will hopefully further empower him."

"Then it is decided that he will go there." Marion smiled contently. They talked about more details until the door opened and a wave of cold December air flooded the room. Shortly after Keith felt a well-known presence behind him.

He leaned his head back to grin at the tall man with the strange two-coloured hair. "Shiro!"

"I happened to be around so I thought I'd see if you were still here."

"I am. Marion, this is Takashi Shirogane, my boyfriend and the owner of the glorious back."

Shiro blushed but held his hand out to the woman who shook it. "Nice to meet you Mr. Shirogane. Do you want something to drink? Some cake?"

"Only if it doesn't cause any inconvenience. You were busy!"

"This is a café. If customers wanting something to eat, drink or pay were any inconvenience I should look for another job," Marion laughed. "So?"

"Right. Then I'd like to have a large cappuccino and..."

"There's plum cake with much cinnamon." Keith informed his boyfriend and instantly his eyes brightened up.

"And a piece of plum cake!"

Marion nodded and went to get it.

Keith looked at Shiro. "You are still wearing your jacket. Can you have a look at Kosmo? I have a feeling..."

"Sure. Where is he?"

"In the garden. Out of the back door." Keith pointed in the direction of said door so Shiro went over to take care of their dog.

Only a few moments later he heard Shiro sternly scold the dog. He got up to see what was wrong. He hated it when his Kosmo-doing-mischief-feeling was correct.

But then Shiro already returned, leading a very dirty Kosmo on his harness. holding something green in his other hand.

"He was digging out flowers again and then rolled around in them?" Keith asked.

"Yup..."

Keith looked at his dog who looked as innocent as snow. "Heel!" he ordered sternly and Kosmo's expression faltered. Keith ordering him around this strictly never meant anything good, so he followed the order.

Keith returned to the table and ordered the dog to lay down.

Shiro went over to Marion to confess the dog's deed.

The woman looked at the white flower in Shiro's hand and then at the dog who again seemed content with himself.

"He had fun and I wanted to take care of the garden anyway." Marion grinned. ”As long as he hadnˋt eaten it? Christmas roses are poisonous!"

"He doesn't do it. He just wants to smell flowery."

"Then it's fine. Give me the flowers. I also wanted to redecorate the tables and something white would look nice, don't you think?"

Shiro wanted to argue but Marion didn't want to hear any of it. She just ushered Shiro back to the table. His orders were ready.